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Socorro Bulletin Meet Council, Staff: P. 2 News: Pgs. 4, 5 Calendar: P. 6 Announcements: P. 7 Directory: P. 8 G reetings to all our new and esteemed readers. We are proud to present to you the first issue of the Socorro City Newsletter, the guide for your resources in Socorro, Texas. e Socorro City Newsletter is a free publication that delivers useful bilingual information on diverse topics that matter to the Socorro community. e City’s editorial board are a group of compassionate, assertive city experts, leaders and advocates who are dedicated to disseminating accurate and contemporary information for the general welfare and prosperity of your community. As a committee we will continue to bring our readers the most pertinent and relevant information on city issues today. We encourage every one of our readers to contact us with questions, critiques, stories, and suggestions. With your feedback we can continue to address your concerns. Socorro is a community rich in culture, histories, and resources. Every month we will publish a resource list of local organizations committed to providing free and minimal-cost services to you. Please share your copy of the Socorro City Newsletter with a loved one who may need the information in our pages. For additional copies please contact us or visit our city offices. Our newsletter’s contributors share the collective goal of distinguishing reality versus myth for city operations. Don’t allow yourself to make your decisions without the proper information. Seek current, accurate S aludos a todos nuestros nuevos y estimados lectores: Estamos muy orgullosos de presentarles el primer número de El Socorro Noticiero, una publicacion que proporciona ayuda y guía de en asuntos en Socorro. El Socorro Noticiero es una publicación gratuita que contiene información bilingüe útil en diversos tópicos que impactan a la comunidad. El cuerpo editorial está integrado por un grupo determinados y compasivos, lideres comprometidos en la defensa de tus derechos, dedicados a diseminar información precisa y actual en la búsqueda del bienestar y prosperidad de nuestra comunidad. Como Comité, continuaremos trayendo a nuestros lectores la información más relevante. Invito a cada uno de nuestros lectores a contactarnos con sus preguntas, observaciones críticas, historias y sugerencias. Con su participación, podremos continuar abordando sus temas de interés. Socorro es una comunidad rica en cultura, historias y recursos. Cada mes publicaremos una lista de organizaciones comprometidas en proveer a Usted servicios gratuitos o a un costo mínimo. Por favor comparta su copia de El Socorro Noticiero con una persona querida que pudiera encontrarse en una situación relacionada con los asuntos que aquí tratamos. Para obtener copias adicionales, contáctenos o pase a visitarnos en nuestra oficina de la ciudad. Los participantes en nuestra revista comparten el objetivo colectivo Name of Mayor Mayor • Mayor Bienvenidos Welcome “... In our city, we have new opportunities, new challenges, and the determined continuation of organized efforts to seek just and effective policies, superb representation, and more social services for our community....Socorro Council Calls for Unity, Progress “... Es el tiempo a trae nuevas oportunidades, nuevos retos, y la continuación determinada de esfuerzos que buscan conseguir leyes justas y efectivas, una representación adecuada y más servicios sociales para nuestro comunidad.”

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Proof for city of Socorro

Transcript of Socorro Bulletin Proof

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Socorro Bulletin

Meet Council, Staff: P. 2News: Pgs. 4, 5Calendar: P. 6Announcements: P. 7Directory: P. 8

Greetings to all our new and esteemed readers.We are proud to present to you the first issue of the Socorro

City Newsletter, the guide for your resources in Socorro, Texas. The Socorro City Newsletter is a free publication that delivers useful

bilingual information on diverse topics that matter to the Socorro community. The City’s editorial board are a group of compassionate, assertive city experts, leaders and advocates who are dedicated to disseminating accurate and contemporary information for the general welfare and prosperity of your community. As a committee we will continue to bring our readers the most pertinent and relevant information on city issues today.

We encourage every one of our readers to contact us with questions, critiques, stories, and suggestions. With your feedback we can continue to address your concerns.

Socorro is a community rich in culture, histories, and resources. Every month we will publish a resource list of local organizations committed to providing free and minimal-cost services to you. Please share your copy of the Socorro City Newsletter with a loved one who may need the information in our pages. For additional copies please contact us or visit our city offices.

Our newsletter’s contributors share the collective goal of distinguishing reality versus myth for city operations. Don’t allow yourself to make your decisions without the proper information. Seek current, accurate

Saludos a todos nuestros nuevos y estimados lectores:Estamos muy orgullosos de presentarles el primer número de

El Socorro Noticiero, una publicacion que proporciona ayuda y guía de en asuntos en Socorro.

El Socorro Noticiero es una publicación gratuita que contiene información bilingüe útil en diversos tópicos que impactan a la comunidad. El cuerpo editorial está integrado por un grupo determinados y compasivos, lideres comprometidos en la defensa de tus derechos, dedicados a diseminar información precisa y actual en la búsqueda del bienestar y prosperidad de nuestra comunidad. Como Comité, continuaremos trayendo a nuestros lectores la información más relevante.

Invito a cada uno de nuestros lectores a contactarnos con sus preguntas, observaciones críticas, historias y sugerencias.

Con su participación, podremos continuar abordando sus temas de interés.

Socorro es una comunidad rica en cultura, historias y recursos. Cada mes publicaremos una lista de organizaciones comprometidas en proveer a Usted servicios gratuitos o a un costo mínimo.

Por favor comparta su copia de El Socorro Noticiero con una persona querida que pudiera encontrarse en una situación relacionada con los asuntos que aquí tratamos. Para obtener copias adicionales, contáctenos o pase a visitarnos en nuestra oficina de la ciudad.

Los participantes en nuestra revista comparten el objetivo colectivo

Name of MayorMayor • Mayor

Bienvenidos Welcome

“... In our city, we have new opportunities, new challenges, and the determined continuation of organized efforts to seek just and effective policies, superb representation, and more social services for our community....”

Socorro Council Calls for Unity, Progress

“... Es el tiempo a trae nuevas oportunidades, nuevos retos, y la continuación determinada de esfuerzos que buscan conseguir leyes justas y efectivas, una representación adecuada y más servicios sociales para nuestro comunidad.”

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Council person is a Mexican attorney specializing in international rights and immigration. She is a law graduate of Universidad Interamericana del Norte, Campus Ciudad Juárez . She counsels and advises clients by providing extensive information regarding immigration law and required documents.

Council person is a Mexican attorney specializing in international rights and immigration. She is a law graduate of Universidad Interamericana del Norte, Campus Ciudad Juárez . She counsels and advises clients by providing extensive information regarding immigration law and required documents.

Council person. is the managing attorney for Council person is a Mexican attorney specializing in international rights and immigration. She is a law graduate of Universidad Interamericana del Norte, Campus Ciudad Juárez . She counsels and advises clients by providing extensive information regarding immigration law and required documents.

Council person is a Mexican attorney specializing in international rights and immigration. She is a law graduate of Universidad Interamericana del Norte, Campus Ciudad Juárez . She counsels and advises clients by providing extensive information regarding immigration law and required documents.

Council person is a Mexican attorney specializing in international rights and immigration. She is a law graduate of Universidad Interamericana del Norte, Campus Ciudad Juárez . She counsels and advises clients by providing extensive information regarding immigration law and required documents.

Mayor

Name of Mayor, contact info

2011-2012 City CounCil

Name, district, phone, emailName, district, phone, emailName, district, phone, emailName, district, phone, email

City ManagerName, district, phone, email

February 2011 ContributorsDiocesan Migrant and Refugee Services

(DMRS)Iliana Holguin, Executive Director

Kristin Connor, Equal Justice Works Fellow, Staff Attorney

Texas Rio Grande Legal Aid (TRLA) Alberto Mesta Jr., Attorney at Law and

Branch Manager (El Paso Office)Javier Saenz, Attorney at Law

University of Texas at El PasoOlga Lizbeth Ochoa, Anthropology

Jose Barraza, Nursing

The Socorro Newsletter is a publication of the City of Socorro. All articles and information are the prop-erty of the City of Socorro. Articles, information and comments should be sent to the attention of the Editorial Board president. Submissions must be received by the City of Socorro on or before the 10th day of the month preceding publication. Any ads or contents should not be considered an endorsement of any product or service. Articles published in the Socorro Newsletter do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the City of Socorro or the Editorial Board.

City of Socorro, TexasPublisher

City of SocorroRio Vista

El Paso, TX, 79927Ph./Fax: 1-877-904-8503

www.socorro.gov

El Socorro Noticiero es una publicación de El Ciudad de Socorro. Todos los artículos e información son propiedad de El Ciudad de Socorro y no podrán ser reproducidos sin el consentimiento escrito de la Cuidad. Todos los envíos y/o anuncios publicitarios deberán ser recibidos en la Cuidad en o antes del décimo día del mes que precede a la publicación de la revista. El Ciudad de Socorro se deslinda, no suscribe ni garantiza de ninguna manera cualquier punto de vista, opinión o servicio que aparezca en nuestra publicación. Eso es responsabilidad exclusiva de los autores de los artículos o de los anunciantes. Las opiniones publicadas en El Socorro Noticiero no reflejan necesariamente la opinión de El Ciudad de Socorro o la del Consejo Editorial.

Council person is a Mexican attorney specializing in international rights and immigration. She is a law graduate of Universidad Interamericana del Norte, Campus Ciudad Juárez . She counsels and advises clients by providing extensive information regarding immigration law and required documents.

Council person is a Mexican attorney specializing in international rights and immigration. She is a law graduate of Universidad Interamericana del Norte, Campus Ciudad Juárez . She counsels and advises clients by providing extensive information regarding immigration law and required documents.

Council person. is the managing attorney for Council person is a Mexican attorney specializing in international rights and immigration. She is a law graduate of Universidad Interamericana del Norte, Campus Ciudad Juárez . She counsels and advises clients by providing extensive information regarding immigration law and required documents.

Council person is a Mexican attorney specializing in international rights and immigration. She is a law graduate of Universidad Interamericana del Norte, Campus Ciudad Juárez . She counsels and advises clients by providing extensive information regarding immigration law and required documents.

Council person is a Mexican attorney specializing in international rights and immigration. She is a law graduate of Universidad Interamericana del Norte, Campus Ciudad Juárez . She counsels and advises clients by providing extensive information regarding immigration law and required documents.

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Maternidad la Luz1308 Magoffin AvenueEl Paso, TX 79901(915) 532-5895Free Childbirth Preparation ClassesMondays in English from 6 to 7 PMFeb. 7 and Feb. 14

Ofreciendo clases de preparacion para el parto en español, Sabados 12 a 1 p.m. 5 Febrero, 12 Febrero

La Mujer Obrera2000 Texas AvenueEl Paso, TX 79901(915)533-9710GED classes, Tuesday and Thursday from 3 p.m. - 5 p.m.

Salud y Educacion /

El Paso City-County Board of Health HIV Prevention Program5115 El Paso Drive(915) 771-5894, (915)771-5879Free HIV and Syphilis testTuesday and Wednesday 8 a.m. -11a.m. and 1 p.m. - 4 p.m. at, Friday 1-4 p.m. at 222 Campbell

El Paso Public libraries Free classes ranging from ESL, Citizenship, Computers, and parenting. Call for more information. Irene Mendoza (915) 543-5491Martha Toscano (915) 543-5491l Through Her Eyes Photo ExhibitEl Paso City Hall(915) 239-5051Exhibición de fotografia de la comunidad Latina y fronteriza. The Latina Border community as depicted by youth photographers. Feb. 15, 9 a.m.

Native Americans at the Pass of the North4301 Trans mountain Road

Cultura y Arte/Art and Culture

Entretenimiento /EntertainmentEl Paso, TX 79924(915) 755-4332Tour on Tigua and El Paso area native Americans, along with information on general experience of Indians during Spanish period. Feb. 13.

Centro Mujeres de La Esperanza1101 Birch St. El Paso, TX 79930(915) 515-1890Classes ranging from cake decorating, English, group therapy,

Sacred Heart / Sagrado Corazón602 S. OregonEl Paso, TX 79901(915)532-5447“Voz al Trabajo.” Ayudan a la comunidad buscar empleo. Help the community find a job. Lunes/Miercoles/Viernes-Mon./ Wed./Fri. 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Employment / Empleo

Dias Festivos /HolidaysDia de la CandelariaFeb. 2.Religious Mexican Holiday

Dia de San ValentinFeb. 14St. Valentine’s Day

Dia de la Bandera MexicanaFeb. 24Mexican Flag Day

Sacred Heart / Sagrado Corazón602 S. OregonEl Paso, TX 79901(915)532-5447“Voz al Trabajo.” Ayudan a la comunidad buscar empleo. Help the community find a job. Lunes/Miercoles/Viernes-Mon./ Wed./Fri. 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Employment / Empleo

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Entretenimiento /EntertainmentEl Paso, TX 79924(915) 755-4332Tour on Tigua and El Paso area native Americans, along with information on general experience of Indians during Spanish period. Feb. 13.

Centro Mujeres de La Esperanza1101 Birch St. El Paso, TX 79930(915) 515-1890Classes ranging from cake decorating, English, group therapy,

Sacred Heart / Sagrado Corazón602 S. OregonEl Paso, TX 79901(915)532-5447“Voz al Trabajo.” Ayudan a la comunidad buscar empleo. Help the community find a job. Lunes/Miercoles/Viernes-Mon./ Wed./Fri. 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Employment / Empleo

Dias Festivos /HolidaysDia de la CandelariaFeb. 2.Religious Mexican Holiday

Dia de San ValentinFeb. 14St. Valentine’s Day

Dia de la Bandera MexicanaFeb. 24Mexican Flag Day

Entretenimiento /EntertainmentTour on Tigua and El Paso area native Americans, along with information on general experience of Indians during Spanish period. Feb. 13.

Centro Mujeres de La Esperanza1101 Birch St. El Paso, TX 79930(915) 515-1890Classes ranging from cake decorating, English, group therapy, crafts, and tai chi.

Sacred Heart / Sagrado Corazón602 S. OregonEl Paso, TX 79901(915)532-5447“Voz al Trabajo.” Ayudan a la comunidad buscar empleo. Help the community find a job. Lunes/Miercoles/Viernes-Mon./ Wed./Fri. 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Employment / Empleo

Dias Festivos /HolidaysDia de la CandelariaFeb. 2.Religious Mexican Holiday

Dia de San ValentinFeb. 14St. Valentine’s Day

Dia de la Bandera MexicanaFeb. 24Mexican Flag Day

Entretenimiento /EntertainmentTour on Tigua and El Paso area native Americans, along with information on general experience of Indians during Spanish period. Feb. 13.

Centro Mujeres de La Esperanza1101 Birch St. El Paso, TX 79930(915) 515-1890Classes ranging from cake decorating, English, group therapy, crafts, and tai chi.

Sacred Heart / Sagrado Corazón602 S. OregonEl Paso, TX 79901(915)532-5447“Voz al Trabajo.” Ayudan a la comunidad buscar empleo. Help the community find a job. Lunes/Miercoles/Viernes-Mon./ Wed./Fri. 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Employment / Empleo

Dias Festivos /HolidaysDia de la CandelariaFeb. 2.Religious Mexican Holiday

Dia de San ValentinFeb. 14St. Valentine’s Day

Dia de la Bandera MexicanaFeb. 24Mexican Flag Day

Sacred Heart / Sagrado Corazón602 S. OregonEl Paso, TX 79901(915)532-5447“Voz al Trabajo.” Ayudan a la comunidad buscar empleo. Help the community find a job. Lunes/Miercoles/Viernes-Mon./ Wed./Fri. 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Employment / EmpleoSacred Heart / Sagrado Corazón602 S. OregonEl Paso, TX 79901(915)532-5447“Voz al Trabajo.” Ayudan a la comunidad buscar empleo. Help the community find a job. Lunes/Miercoles/Viernes-Mon./ Wed./Fri. 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Employment / EmpleoSacred Heart / Sagrado Corazón602 S. OregonEl Paso, TX 79901(915)532-5447“Voz al Trabajo.” Ayudan a la comunidad buscar empleo. Help the community find a job. Lunes/Miercoles/Viernes-Mon./ Wed./Fri. 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Employment / Empleo

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Life runs slow in this agricultural community that borders the bigger city of El Paso in West Texas. The City of Socorro covers approximately 24 square miles and is 65 percent agricultural. Its population is around 35,000 people and newer subdivisions mix with older neighborhoods. The police are made up of 22 officers from Chief down to patrolman. Pay is low for this community. In fact, according to the previous census, the City of Socorro was last in the State of Texas in the number of people with college educations. Yet something was brewing that would change the way police were viewed and respected in this community.

Policeman in the City of Socorro start at $12.85 an hour, which leads to heavy turnover: 30 officers lost in the past three year span. There is no pension and no step increases, most officers can only expect the customary 3 percent COLA (Cost of Living Adjustment) raise, and a 3 percent merit raise. Policeman average three years with the department and normally move on to better-paying jobs. This hurts the community because you train new policeman only to see them move on, taking their knowledge and leaving the city to start from scratch with a new crop of inexperienced policeman.

Sergeant Refugio Orta, a five-year veteran with the force, took the helms of an inactive police officers association. Mr. Orta is a product of this community, marrying his high school sweetheart, serving his time in the Marines, then moving back to the community he calls home. At 36 years old, he stayed longer than the average officer in Socorro, committed to make it a better place where people would be proud of the service and quality of officers patrolling the streets. Mr. Orta was voted the first president of the newly labeled Socorro Police Officers Association in August of 2009.

Supported and encouraged by Chris McGill, field representative for

Participation in High School ParadeThis year marked a special event for Socorro High School. It was the first time in years that a High School U.I.L. football game was play at Socorro High School. The City of Socorro wanted to support the community and our local high school as we marked this great event. The City of Socorro teamed up with Ernest Serna Wolves School to participate in the parade. The City of Socorro supplied the float and materials, the Serna Wolves provided the student and parent participation to build the float. The collaboration was a success, it taught the students about teamwork and promoted the City of Socorro as a partner with our local schools.

Community NewsDriveway ProgramThis program began when District 4 representative was asked by the city

what was one of its biggest challenges. Mr. Jesse Gandara Jr. remembered that one of the biggest complaints he fielded calls for was huge potholes in right of ways. This was caused especially after a rain, cars entering and leaving a driveway would cause huge holes in the city right of way. The City of Socorro is unique because it is common to see 6 to 15 foot dirt right of ways in the older communities. Mr. Gandara had for years asked council members why a concrete driveway program could not be established in Socorro since the city owned the right of ways. Mr. Jesse Gandara Jr. was told it could not be done in previous years because the City did not have the money. Mr. Gandara’s proposal was simple though, this would not be a short-term project or all or nothing mentality, this would be a long term project consisting of several years. The reason was finances, the city receives new funds every year and spreading it out throughout the years means new money will be available to replenish the project year after year. On June 28, 2010 the City Council agreed to fund 345 homes in District 4 as a pilot program with oversight by Mr. Gandara representing council. On April 7, 2011 the City Council received such high praise and demand from the community that it moved the project from a pilot program to a permanent program for the entire city. Councilman At-Large Willie Madrid was asked to take over the program representing the City Council. To date more than five hundred and seventy homes have been completed, to include entire streets like Lydia, Milo, and Delilah. The City of Socorro would like to inform you that every home in Socorro is scheduled to receive a driveway. However time is the only variable and we ask that your patience is appreciated as the project will

Horses Allowed in SocorroA constituent located on Socorro Rd. notified District 4 Representative

Jesse Gandara Jr. that he had recently received a visit from a City Code Enforcement Officer requesting that he had 30 days to remove his two horses from his approximately two acre property. Mr. Gandara reviewed the situation and met with City Officials to find the problem. The situation was very unique, Mr. Gandara discovered that years ago a law was passed by the Socorro City Council back in 2002 to ban horses in Socorro unless you had a minimum of 4 acres and were zoned as a ranch. Mr. Gandara also discovered that the inspectors had barely begun to enforce the ordinance in 2010, eight years after the ordinance was passed. Understanding that there is middle ground between horse owners and their neighbors, Mr. Gandara asked City Council to suspend the law until it could be reviewed on May 7, 2009. The new city council tackled this controversial ordinance for the benefit of the City and not leave it unresolved as previous council’s had done. It decided that a half acre was the minimum lot size to have a horse, the amount of animals allowed would go up as the acreage of the land increased also. The council also placed strict rules protecting the neighbors of the horse owners, regulating how the food is stored, cleanliness of the stalls, construction of stalls, closeness of stalls to homes, amongst other things. The City Council passed the ordinance on September 2, 2010 it allowed horses on small tracts of land protecting our agricultural heritage and regulated the horses for their protection and the neighbors living next door who enjoy living in a City with a country flavor.

Our Perspective ...Police Raises are Good for Socorro

de develar y distinguir los mitos de la realidad en la ciudad. No se convierta en una víctima. Encuentre aquí información precisa y actualizada.

Es el tiempo a trae nuevas oportunidades, nuevos retos, y la continuación determinada de esfuerzos que buscan conseguir leyes justas y efectivas, una representación adecuada y más servicios sociales para nuestro comunidad.

El propósito de nuestra revista es atraer la atención local, estatal y nacional hacia la zona fronteriza de Socorro que ayude a nuestros legisladores a comprender y abordar mejor la diversidad y complejidad de la cuidad de Socorro.

Lo invitamos a unirse a nuestra causa compartiendo su historia.

information. In our city, we have new opportunities, new challenges, and the determined

continuation of organized efforts to seek just and effective policies, superb representation, and more social services for our community. Our newsletter endeavor strives to attract local, state, and national attention to the Socorro region to help our legislators better understand and address the diversities and complexities of this community. We invite you to join the cause by sharing your story.

From the Cover

de la portada

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CLEAT, they both wanted change and were developing a vision for the association, they quickly became active in the community. Partnering with Life Ambulance and the El Paso Diamond Girls together they hosted free flu vaccination clinics, car washes for local charities, having free giveaways (donated by El Paso county Sheriff Association), and other charitable events, the association quickly became a face in the community.

Sgt. Orta next found an ally on the five member council who had the same vision for the community and police department: a 28 year old councilmember named Jesse Gandara Jr. who was on his second term in council. Mr. Gandara stood out on this council, he had a passion for his community that was evident when SPOA began inviting council members to talk to their members at the local pizza restaurant. When asked about pay raises for officers, Mr. Gandara’s answers were unique from the other invited council members. There were no excuses why their requests could not happen, which had been the trend from others. Mr. Gandara’s answers were very direct and simple. He said he had grown up in Socorro and felt a pride for his community, stating that it was better than anywhere else. He said that he made up his mind a long time ago that the City of Socorro would be number one in everything it does and never be second to anyone. He finished by saying that not only would he support a pay raise, he would not feel satisfied until they had the best pay amongst all the local agencies, because that was the type of quality this community deserved. Mr. Orta knew the association had found an ally on council.

After several months of being active in the community, the SPOA decided they would tackle one issue at a time. They chose their pay scales first. Sgt. Orta collaborated with councilman Gandara to see what could be done about pay. They

found unused funds and targeted that money to be used towards raises for policeman. On October 15, 2009 an item was placed on the agenda to approve pay increases and begin the process of the budgetary amendments necessary to implement the raises. The association showed up, bringing 11 of their officers to the meeting that sat in the audience to show their support. The discussion began and it was clear the city administration was solidly against the pay raises. The association brought neighboring police allies to speak for the pay raises. The President for the El Paso County Sheriffs Association and CLEAT representatives showed up and spoke in support of the raises amongst others. It was evident that the administration had not anticipated the police force showing up, and after a twenty minute debate between the administration and council, the vote was forced when Councilman Jesus “Chuy” Hernandez seconded Mr. Gandara’s motion. It passed unanimously that night. The next battle was to pass the budget amendments necessary to fund their decision.

The next council meeting was shaping up to be the real test for the SPOA. With the administration now aware that they were dealing with an organized association they would be prepared for the next meeting. The meeting went the same way as before but now the arguments were more intense. It appeared evident from the beginning that a majority of the councilmember’s were now against the raises. Reasons for the denial of the raises were numerous and lengthy. The Human Resources Director began to question where the research had been acquired, was it valid, had a true market research been done? There were many calls by the H.R. Director to delete the item. The City Manager asked why the dispatchers had not been included, why the other non-police employees were not getting raises?

Again the City Manager asked for the items deletion. The SPOA and council members knew that a delay would only give the opposition time to kill the movement. After over an hour of discussion, where a recess had to be called in-between to regroup, a vote was finally forced in the same manner as before. It passed unanimously again. SPOA won a victory that only a few months before would have been considered a joke to most people. The new raises were set as hourly as follows: patrolmen (entry level) $17.00 an hour, Patrolmen (for officers with 5 years experience or more with the city) $18.00, Sergeant and/or officers with twenty plus years experience $19.00, Lieutenant $21.00, and Chief of Police $32.25.

The SPOA quickly began to look at the future. They saw an opportunity in the upcoming elections in May 2010. They decided to roll the dice and for the first time get politically active. The entire five member council and mayor were up for election and crucial decisions had to be made as to who to support. It appeared obvious the association would support Councilman Jesse Gandara Jr. and Councilman Chuy Hernandez who had proven they would support and defend community issues. The next test for SPOA came when they opted not to endorse the other incumbents. They instead endorsed three newcomers Mary Garcia, Willie Madrid, and Gloria Rodriguez. They also chose not to get involved with the Mayor’s race since they cannot vote, make motions or seconds. Rumors soon began that Sgt. Orta would not have his job after the elections if his candidates lost. Rumors also circulated in this small town that the members of the SPOA would pay the consequences when their candidates lost. This did not deter Sgt. Orta or his association members. They worked that much harder hosting meet and greets for the candidates. They participated in every community

event they could and invited their candidates to participate with them. The SPOA and their candidates were at health fairs, free coffee to meet the candidates at their local convenience store, vaccine clinics at the local grocery store, etc... On election day, the SPOA had their members at every election site for the full twelve hour day, wearing their association shirts, and passing out campaign literature for their candidates. They spoke to the voters as they entered, told them the issues they had in their department and asked for their help in electing their candidates. It was a tough election day for the officers; it seemed the opposition was infuriated seeing the association members helping at the polls. After the polls closed they waited to see if their hard work and risks had been worth it. Excitement began as the results came in. Mary Garcia, Willie Madrid, Gloria Rodriguez, and Councilman Jesse Gandara Jr. had won their races. They saw four of their five races won. The only race that was lost was by 12 votes.

The City Council has since targeted training and pay raises for the officers. The City of Socorro now pays its patrolman higher than the Sheriff ’s and El Paso Police Departments. Trainings like property and evidence, crime scene forensics, amongst others are becoming standard in the Socorro Police Department. With higher pay have come higher expectations for the police department. Turnover from police officers leaving has been basically stopped. The City wants the Socorro community to know that the police department of the past is gone, now we have a responsive police department to look forward to. The Socorro City Council is living up to the commitment and new standard that we will be the elite law enforcement department in West Texas, “second to none”.

Our Perspective ...

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*Los proveedores en esta lista no requieren información referente a su estatus migratorio

* Service providers listed do not require information about your immigration status

Emergencias / Emergencies

Policía y Bomberos: 911Policía / Police (No emergencia / Non emergency): (915) 832-4400Bomberos (no emergencia/non emergency): (915) 771-1000Sheriff (Condado de El Paso): (915) 546-228024-Hour Crisis Hotline (Violencia domestica / Domestic violence): (915) 593-7300

Albergues/Shelters

Annunciation House (Área Central/Central) Para inmigrantes y familias / For immigrants and families; 1003 E. San Antonio Ave., (915) 545-4509

Center Against Family Violence; Albergue escondido para mujeres maltratadas y niños / Hidden shelter for abused women and children; (915) 593-7300

Child Crisis Center (Área Central/Central) Para niños maltratados / For abused children; 2100 N. Stevens St.., (915) 562-7955

Dame La Mano Crisis Pregnancy Center (Área Sur-Central/South Central) Para jóvenes embarazadas / For pregnant teens; 1014 S. Virginia St., (915) 546-4040

La Posada Home, Inc. (Área Central/Central) Para mujeres y niños / For women and children; 1020 N. Campbell St., (915) 544-4595

Opportunity Center (Área Central/Central); 1208 Myrtle Ave., (915) 577-0357

Rescue Mission (Área Central/ Central);1949 W. Paisano, (915) 532-2575

Reynolds Home (Valle Bajo/Lower Valley); Para mujeres y niños / For women and children, 8023 San Jose, (915) 274-2598

Clases de Ciudadanía/Citizenship Classes

Avance (Área Central/Central);616 N. Virginia Ste. D, (915) 351-2419

Clases de Ciudadanía/Citizenship Classes

Burgess Branch Library (Noreste/Northeast); 9600 Dyer, (915) 588-2907

Centro de Salud Familiar La Fe (Segundo Barrio/South Central); 721 S. Ochoa, (915) 545-7190

Clases de Ciudadanía/Citizenship Classes

Centro Mujeres de La Esperanza (Área Central/Central); 1101 Birch Street, (915) 545-1890

Ropa /Clothes

Family Thrift Store (Valle Bajo/Lower Valley); 8515 Alameda, (915) 778-7246

Open Arms Community Center (Valle Bajo/Lower Valley); 8210 N. Loop, (915) 595-0589

Ritzy Rags (Oeste/West Side)Ropa de profesionista/Professional clothing (Oeste/Westside); 960 Chelsea, (915) 5440341

Salvation Army (Área Sur-Central/South Central); 4300 E. Paisano, (915) 544-9811

St. Vincent de Paul (Valle Alto/Upper Valley); 2104 N. Piedras, (915) 564-4357; y también ubicados en el / and also located at 6950 3rd Street, Canutillo, TX (915) 877-7030

Ropa /Clothes

Ysleta Lutheran Mission (El Valle de las Misiones/Mission Valley); 301 S. Schultz Dr., (915) 858-2588

Terapia, Consejeria, y Salud/ Therapy, Counseling, and Health

Casa de Nacimiento (Área Central/Central); 1511 E. Missouri Avenue, (915) 533-4931

Center Against Family Violence; Please call for information / Por favor hable para mas información; (915) 595-2238

Centro de Salud Familiar La Fe:700 S. Ochoa St. (915) 545-4550721 S. Ochoa (915) 545-7190 (Para niños/For children)560 Lisbon St. (915) 778-9200815 E. Yandell Dr. (915) 545-7205 (Para niños/For children)823 E. Yandell Dr. (915) 545-72051313 San Antonio (San Elizario, TX) (915) 851-55191505 Mescalero (915) 772-3366

CHIP -- Servicios gratuitos de salud para mujeres indocumentadas y sus bebes/ Free health services for undocumented women and their babies. Llame/Call 1-877-543-7669 para aplicar/to apply o/or visite/visit www.chipmedicaid.org.

Del Sol Women and Teen Center (Segundo Barrio); Inside Henderson Health Clinic, 721 S. Mesa, (915) 351-3537. Prueba de Embarazo gratuito. Free pregnancy tests.

Family Service of El Paso (Este/Eastside); 6040 Surety Drive, (915) 781-9900

Jewish Family & Children Service (Oeste/Westside); 401 Wallenberg, (915) 581-3256

La Clínica Guadalupana (Horizon City); 901 Ascencion St., (915) 852-3328

Maternidad La Luz (Área Sur-Central/South Central); 1308 Magoffin Avenue, (915) 532-5895

University Medical Center (Área Central/Central); Please call for information about any possible service requirements / Por favor hable para mas información sobre los servicios y requisitos. 4815 Alameda, (915) 544-1200

YISD Comprehensive Care Center (Lower Valley); 300 Vocational Drive. (915) 434-7200, **Servicios medicos y dentales de costo minimo para estudiantes y familias de distrito escolar YISD. For YISD students and families. Low-Cost medical and dental services.

Promoción de Derechos/Human Rights Advocates

Border Network for Human Rights (Área Central/Central), 2115 N. Piedras, (915) 577-0724

Consulado de Mexico (El Centro/Downtown); 910 E. San Antonio Ave., (915) 533-3644

Paso Del Norte Civil Rights Project (Área Central/Central); 1317 E. Rio Grande. (915) 532-3799

Texas Rio Grande Legal Aid (Área Central/Central); 1331 Texas Ave. Numero gratuito/Toll-free number: 1-800-369-2792

Representación Legal (Gratuito o de costo mínimo)/Legal

Representation (Free or of a nominal fee)

Catholic Charities Diocese of Las Cruces, Legal Services Program (Anthony, NM); 880 Anthony Drive, Suite #13, (575) 882-6177

Diocesan Migrant and Refugee Services (Área Central/Central); 2400 E. Yandell, (915) 532-3975

Las Americas Immigrant Advocacy Center (Área Central/Central); 1500 E. Yandell, (915) 544-5126

Paso Del Norte Civil Rights Project (Área Central/Central); 1317 E. Rio Grande, (915) 532-3799

Texas Rio Grande Legal Aid (Área Central/Central); 1331 Texas Ave. Numero gratuito/Toll-free number: 1-800-369-2792

United Neighborhood Organization (Este/Eastside); 8700 Boeing Drive (915) 775-1161 y tambien ubicados en el Centro/ also located Downtown at 747 E. San Antonio Ave. #100, (915) 351-0099

Please contact us for corrections or to include your

organization in this resource list.

Socorro #

Socorro Guia de Recursos Socorro Resource Guide

Diocesan Migrant and Refugee Services (Área Central/Central); 2400 E. Yandell, (915) 532-3975

Doris Van Doren Library (Oeste/West Side); 551 Redd Rd., (915) 875-0700

Esperanza Moreno Library (Este/Eastside); 12480 Pebble Hills, (915) 921-7001

Irving Shwartz Library (Este/Eastside);1856 Dean Martin, (915) 857-0594

Judge Marquez Library (Valle Bajo/Lower Valley); 610 Yarbrough Dr., (915) 591-3391

Main Downtown Public Library (El Centro/Downtown); 501 N. Oregon, (915) 543-5480

Mercado Mayapan (Área Central/Central); 2101 Myrtle Ave., (915) 351-2558

Project Bravo (Área Sur-Central/South Central); 716 E. Paisano, (915) 544-0336

Rio Vista Community Center (Valle Bajo/Lower Valley); 901 N. Rio Vista, (915) 860-8615

Sacred Heart / Sagrado Corazón (Segundo Barrio/South Central); 602 S. Oregon, (915) 544-4970

San Elizario Catholic Church (El Valle de las Misiones/Mission Valley); 1556 San Elizario, (915) 545-7090

San Juan Bautista Catholic Church (Valle Bajo/Lower Valley); 5647 Dailey Ave., (915) 779-1583

St. Pius X Catholic Church (Este/Eastside); 1050 Clark, (915) 566-5435

Ysleta Branch Library (El Valle de las Misiones/Mission Valley); 9321 Alameda, (915) 858-0905

Clases de Ciudadanía/Citizenship Classes

Ysleta Community Learning Center (Valle de las Misiones/Mission Valley); 121 Padres Dr., (915) 434-9400

Necesidades Básicas/Basic Necessities: Ayuda financiera para pagar sus utilidades/Financial aid

to help pay for your utilities:

+ St. Vincent de Paul Afiliados / Affiliates (Contacte a la parroquia mas cercana a su hogar / Contact the parish closest to home)

+ Blessed Sacrament Parish (Noreste/Northeast); 9025 Diana Drive, (915) 545-4005

+ Christ the Savior (Noreste/Northeast); 5301 Wadsworth (915) 545-4079

+ La Purisima, Socorro Mission (El Valle de las Misiones/Mission Valley); 328 S. Nevada, (915) 545-4084

+ Our Lady of Assumption (Noreste/Northeast); 4800 Byron, (915) 566-4040

+ Our Lady of Guadalupe (Area Sur-Central/South Central); 2709 Alabama, (915) 562-4304

+ Our Lady of Mt. Carmel (El Valle de las Misiones/Mission Valley); 131 S. Zaragoza Rd., (915) 545-4223

+ Our Lady of the Valley (Valle Bajo/Lower Valley); 8600 Winchester, (915) 859-7939

+ Sacred Heart / Sagrado Corazón (Segundo Barrio/South Central); 602 S. Oregon, (915) 532-5447

+ San Lorenzo (El Valle de las Misiones/Mission Valley); 13021 Center St. Clint, TX, (915) 851-2255

+ St. Francis Xavier Cabrini (Este/Eastside); 12200 Vista Del Sol Dr., (915) 545-4217

+ St. Joseph’s Church (Área Central/Central); 3729 Hueco Ave., (915) 566-9396

+ St. Luke’s (Oeste/Westside); 930 E. Redd Road, (915) 581-9264

+ St. Mark (Este/Eastside); 11700 Pebble Hills Blvd., (915) 545-4252

+ St. Matthew (Valle Alto/Upper Valley); 400 W. Sunset Rd., (915) 545-4263

Necesidades Básicas/Basic Necessities: Ayuda financiera para pagar sus utilidades/Financial aid

to help pay for your utilities:

+ St. Patrick Cathedral (Área Central/Central); 1118 N. Mesa St., (915) 532-4142

+ St. Patrick’s Church (Canutillo – Valle Alto/Upper Valley); 6950 3rd Street, Canutillo, TX, (915) 877-7030

+ St. Pius X Church (Este/Eastside);1050 North Clark Drive, (915) 772-0502

+ St. Raphael (Este/Eastside); 2301 Zanzibar Dr., (915) 545-4025

+ St. Stephen (Este/Eastside); 1700 George Deiter Dr., (915) 855-1661

+ St. Thomas Aquinas (Este/Eastside); 10970 Bywood Dr., (915) 545-4299

+ Queen of Peace (Oeste/Westside); 15551 Belvidere, (915) 545-4097

Despensa Comunitaria/Food Pantry

St. Patrick’s Church (Valle Alto/Upper Valley) 6950 3rd Street, Canutillo, TX (915) 877-7030

St. Pius X Food Bank (Este/Eastside)1007 Geronimo, (915) 772-3226

Ysleta Lutheran Mission (El Valle de las Misiones/Mission Valley), 301 S. Schultz Dr., (915) 858-2588

West Texas Food Bank (915) 595-1060** Llame para localizar la agencia mas cercana a usted/ Call to find the nearest agency location to you