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PAYNE RIO GRANDE CITY FORD CELEBRATES GRAND OPENING

By: Starr County Industrial Foundation

Rio Grande City- Starr County officially welcomed Payne Motors to Rio Grande City this past Thursday. The event, coordinated by the Starr County Industrial Foundation (SCIF), was part of a multi-day grand opening celebration Payne Motors has planned in the community. Following a blessing ceremony by Father Jean, owner Bud Payne was at hand to welcome local elected officials, community members, friends and family to the new Payne Rio Grande City Ford dealership. After thanking everyone for their presences, expressing great enthusiasm for finally being in Starr County, Payne spoke passionately about his local staff. He was especially emphatic about sharing that the majority of his new personnel is from Starr County, “the quality of the workforce in this community is as superb as I have seen in the Rio Grande Valley,” expressed Payne. The new facility is located at 5353 E US Hwy 83 and will carry a full inventory of Ford products and service. Payne RGC Ford is a great asset to our community and we look forward to building a great and lasting partnership with them.

Alfredo “Fred” Garcia Jr. announces candidacy for Starr County Democratic Party Chair

I am formally announcing my candidacy for Starr County Democratic Party Chair. I am the son of Alfredo Garcia Sr. and San Juanita Blanco Garcia from Rio Grande City. I am married to Johanna Rios from Escobares, an English instructor at Rio Grande City High School and South Texas College, and we are the proudparents of Frederick Gavin Garcia.

I have lived in Rio Grande Citymy entire life, and I am a proud graduate of Rio Grande CityHigh School. After high school, I became a Certified Pharmacy Technician for Walgreen’s while attending college. I earned an

Associate of Science degree in Biology from South Texas College in 2006, a Bachelor of Arts in History/Political Science from the University of Texas-Pan American in 2008, a Master of Arts in History from the University of Texas-Pan American in 2011, and have continued my professional development by taking graduate courses in Economics. I am currently employed by R.G.C.C.I.S.D. as a U.S. History teacher at Grulla High School and previously taught U.S. History at Rio Grande City High School.

Throughout my life, I have given back to my community in any method I can use my time, education, experience, and talents. As a pharmacy technician, I volunteered at Operation Lone Star to provide healthcare to the uninsured and was a part of a healthcare forum to educate community members about medical careers. As a musician, I have performed for charitable events like “Toys for Tots”

with Grupo Inkieto. As an educator, I believe I have a responsibility to encourage my students to be good citizens and part of being a good citizen is to participate in the electoral process by voting. Seeing the lack of effort to reach out to the next generation to participate, I got together with several young professionals who shared similar concerns and formed the Starr County Young Democrats in 2011. Together we reach out to young citizens, encourage them to register to vote, inform them about the recently changed election dates and new voter I.D. laws, and maintain a Facebook profile/page to communicate with them through social media.

I am a member of numerous organizations, including:

American Historical Association, Starr County Young Democrats-Founding Member, President, Tau Kappa Epsilon Fraternity (Life Loyal Teke), Tau Kappa Epsilon Alumni Association of South Texas-Founding Member, and University of Texas-Pan American Alumni Association

Although this is my first campaign as a candidate, I have gained some experience and knowledge volunteering and working in the following political campaigns:

2012-currently serving as Regional Organizer for the Sean Hubbard for Senate Campaign2010-Bill White for Governor Campaign

2007-2008-both Hillary Clinton’s and President Barack Obama’s Campaigns

I am a lifelong Democrat and strongly believe that our Democratic leaders should be elected by the many, not appointed by the few. For years now, people have been saying “Starr County needs change.” That is why this campaign is all about you, the voters of Starr County who want to elect “A New Generation of Leadership.” I am ready to serve as Starr County’s next Democratic Party Chair and move Starr County forward. Thank you in advance for your support.

Veterans MS Band Members Excel at TMEA Region Band Auditions!

Veterans MS Band students (from bottom to top) L to R Row 1: Clarinet: Jackie Olivarez (Concert Band 5th Chair), Giselle Olivarez (Concert Band 4th Chair), Alyssa Garza (Symphonic Band 3rd Chair), Lizbeth Alaniz, (Honors Band 12th Chair), Lynette Guerrero (Honors Band 5th Chair), Jacqueline Hernandez (Honors Band 1st Chair); Flute: Dayla Trillayes (Symphonic Band 12th Chair), Kassie Barrera (Honors Band 7th Chair), and Alexis Saenz (Honors Band 2nd Chair). L to R Row 2: Cornet: Christopher Cavazos (Concert Band 5th Chair), Indira Gonzalez (Symphonic Band 7th Chair), Nicholas Castillo (Symphonic Band 5th Chair), Daniel Trejo (Symphonic Band 4th Chair), Abbigail Munoz (Honors Band 1st Chair); Alto Sax: Victoria Carrera (Concert Band 7th Chair), Briana Gonzalez (Symphonic Band 4th Chair), and Angelina Garica (Honors Band 4th Chair). L to R Row 3: Euphonium: Anthony Gonzalez (Symphonic Band 1st Chair), French Horns: Aylin Aguilar (Concert Band 4th chair), Paulina Martinez (Concert Band 2nd Chair), Ervey Garcia (Honors Band 4th Chair), Indira Dominguez (Honors Band 3rd Chair), Carlene Garza (Honors Band 2nd Chair), Lizbeth Barrera (Honors Band 1st Chair), and Baritone Sax: Kevin Gonzalez (Symphonic Band 2nd Chair). L to R Row 4: Percussion: Jorge Garza (Honors Band 7th Chair), Trombone: Fransisco Lopez (Symphonic Band 4th Chair), Tuba: Ricardo Gonzalez (Honors Band 3rd Chair), Jonathan Lopez (Honors Band 1st Chair), Percussion: Ethan Saenz (Honors Band 9th Chair), and Isaac Ortiz (Concert Band 5th Chair). Not pictured: Alex Ayala (Symphonic 2nd Chair).

Local Musician Is Inducted Into The Class Of 2011 Tejano R.O.O.T.S. Hall Of Fame

On January 7, 2012, Mr. Gerardo “Gary” Echavarria was inducted into the Tejano R.O.O.T.S. (Remembering Our Own Tejano Stars) Hall of Fame and Museum in the category of “Million Dollar Band” - Saxophone. The awards ceremony was held in Alice, Texas and was attended by family and friends.

In 2001, Governor Rick Perry signed House Bill 1019 recognizing Alice as the birthplace of Tejano music. The Hall of Fame honors and recognizes Tejano artists, musicians, composers and any other persons who have contributed to the awareness and entertainment of the Tejano Culture.

The museum’s purpose is to preserve, maintain, promote, and display historical documents, artifacts, and audio & video recordings of the Tejano Music Industry and Heritage. Its primary goal is to develop and establish The Tejano Music Hall of Fame Museum in Alice, Tx.

There are more than 157 artists listed as members of the Tejano Roots Hall of Fame. Past inductees include: Little Joe, Isidro Lopez, Ruben Ramos, Roberto Pulido, Sunny Ozuna, Laura Canales, Selena, Lydia Mendoza, Elida Reyna, Shelly Lares, Conjunto Bernal, Baldemar Huerta (Freddie Fender), La Mafia, Esteban Jordan, Grupo Mazz, Rene Sandoval, Joe Posada, Jose Roel “Flaco” Pulido, Freddie Martinez, Los Fabulosos Cuatro, Los Aguilares, Emilio Navaira, Ruben Naranjo, Manuel “Manny” Guerra, Gary Hobbs, Carlos Guzman, and many more. Gary began his professional musical career in 1979 with Los Nuevos and later with Los Artistas of Rio Grande City. In 1985, he began performing with Los Formales de Cali Carranza, touring all over the state of Texas

and the United States. Since 1985, Gary has performed and recorded several albums/CDs with numerous popular and local bands. In February 2011, he joined the legendary Roberto Pulido y Los Clasicos and

continues to perform with them all over the state of Texas.

Pictured above are Tejano Roots Hall of Fame/Museum board members Rick Garcia of Hacienda Records and Ruben Cadena presenting the award. Gary graduated from Roma High School and the University of Texas - Pan American and is currently employed by the Rio Grande City Consolidated Independent School District. Other members of the Class of 2011 inductees include notable Tejano artists; Ramiro “Ram” Herrera, Agnes Torres of the New Variety Band, Los Chamacos and Dario Gonzalez (drummer for Los Dos Gilbertos) to name a few.

Grulla High School Gators Head Football Varsity Coach Abel Gonzalez III Named All-Valley Coach of the Year

Grulla High School’s Head Football Coach Abel Gonzalez III has always possessed the passion for football. He is also no stranger to accolades. He is a 1999 graduate from Rio Grande City High School where he was named All Valley Offensive Player of the Year after quarterbacking the RGC Rattlers to a 7-6 mark including a third-round 5A playoff run. He went on to attend Texas A & M

Kingsville where he also set several passing marks. Surpassing minimal expectations and seeking higher aspirations, Gonzalez played for the RGV Dorados arena league team before pursuing his lifelong goal-coaching and molding young players. He began his coaching career in the PSJA School District in 2004 before heading down west to his hometown of Rio Grande City and taking on a coaching position as the offensive coordinator at his alma mater, Rio Grande City High School in 2006. With the opening of a new high school in the R.G.C.C.I.S.D., it was only befitting to designate Gonzalez as the head football coach at the newly established Grulla High School in 2010.

Gonzalez began his second year at Grulla High School as Athletic Coordinator and Head Football Coach in August 2011

and early in the school year he was faced with challenges and adversity. The unexpected and sudden deaths of his father Abel Gonzalez, Jr. and Gator Football player Adrian Peña were considered severe woes. Despite these unfortunate chains of events, his commitment to the football program, his players, and colleagues proved to be a stellar one. Gonzalez is not only persistent on the field; he motivates and encourages his players to be respectful, courteous, and responsible students. He continually reminds them that they represent a fine football program and community that represent unity, commitment, and excellence. Through all the trials and tribulations the Gator Football family faced in the fall of 2011 , Coach Gonzalez was the rock who kept the team together and

led them to their first ever playoff appearance. He chooses to lead and be the person others chose to follow. He provides inspiration, high expectations, and always provides positive examples. He established a structured and compassionate environment that proved to create a team of champions, which eventually earned him the title of All Valley Coach of the Year.

The ever humble Gonzalez continues to credit his football players and coaching staff for the recognition he has received. Their combined efforts were instrumental in taking the Gator Football Team to such great heights!

A VISION AS BIG AS TEXAS!

Rio Grande City attorney Baldemar Garza wants to represent Starr and 31 other counties on the 4th Court of Appeals in San Antonio, Texas.

I’m deeply honored to have the opportunity to represent South Texas and be a voice on this court for all registered voters. Garza is a Democrat and is running for Place 2. There are 7 Judges on this court yet none from Deep South Texas. The counties included in the district are: Atascosa, Bandera, Bexar, Brooks, Dimmit, Duval, Edwards, Frio, Gillespie, Guadalupe, Jim Hogg, Jim Wells, Karnes, Kendall, Kerr, Kimble, Kinney, La Salle, Mason, Maverick, McMullen, Medina, Menard, Real, Starr, Sutton, Uvalde, Val Verde, Webb, Wilson, Zapata and Zavala.

Garza says his professional contacts that he has developed in the last 25 years of being a lawyer and his college friends from Sul Ross State University are willing to support his candidacy.

More About Baldemar Garza By Willie Rodriguez

As I write this story about Balde I feel the necessity to build a powerful case for his candidacy because in my lifetime I’ve never known or met anyone who can measure up to this guy.

We were six years old when we met and off to North Grammar Elementary we went. This story about Baldemar Garza is as real as it can get. The son of Norberta Renteria, who came to this country illegally and of course, could not speak English and his father the late Adan Garza from El Brazil Ranch. Baldemar was only three when his Dad passed away. Living in a two room wood frame house Norberta “Berta” Garza raised her son.

When we got to Middle School Coach Lee Sanchez recruited us to play football. Balde was always a good listener. He learned techniques, played guard and pound for pound could deliver a blow like no one else. He was only one of a handful of linemen on the track team.

Those two years I remember Balde and his mother migrating and working up North. Going into our Freshman Year Balde had come back that summer with long bushy hair. Early on he was to be the man of the house and worked to help his mother.

Every year I would see his mother leave for 2 to 3 weeks to Mexico.

Balde explained to me how his mother had been married before and he had half sisters and a half brother. Through his mother’s sacrifices and Balde’s help they provided as much as they could to his siblings that were still in Mexico.

We moved on to high school. I remember the year our county celebrated its 200th Birthday. It was 1976.

High School was a much larger than middle school. Baldemar and I shared some classes, but everyday it was routine in that we rode same bus to and from school, the same football team, many of the same friends and just two ranch boys. Growing up I noticed in class that Balde always aimed for perfection. His assignments were always on time, his grades were good and he took a special interest in English. In the next 3 years many events and things happened.

Balde had an old small car, a Toyota Corolla that we would ride to school our senior year. Many times it would just die whenever it wanted to. He’d tell me, look, get that wrench and hit it where the carburetor is at. Sometimes we would get lucky and sometimes we didn’t. When we’d pass by the pretty girls homes I’d pray it wouldn’t die on us. That would be too embarrassing.

Then our Senior Year – the Class of 1979, I guess maturity was kicking in and relationships were more solid. I know I can speak for Balde that even to this day there is a handful of guys where all of us still feel a special bond between us. Jorge Garza Phd in Del Rio, Texas, Ruben Saenz, Jr., in San Antonio, Texas, Willie Olivarez in Austin, Texas, Johnny Saenz in Edinburg, and Ricardo Montalvo in Rio Grande City, Texas. Eddie Lopez and Medardo Rodriguez have now passed on. I know that I could write more about this but I’m trying to keep it tight.

Balde and I decided to play football at Sul Ross State University in Alpine, Texas thanks to our coach Oscar Perez. So we did. During our second year Balde had his knee blown out. We were 19 years old and I drove him to Midland, Texas for surgery. They put him on a stretcher and were taking him to surgery. He turned and said to me, I think I’m going to law school.

I thought – now he has really lost it, with no money an old car, and 500 miles away from home, Balde made up his mind.

Education: Thurgood Marshall School of Law, Texas Southern University, Juris Doctorate, May 1986, Houston, Texas, Sul Ross University, Alpine Texas, Bachelor of Arts May 1983

Organizational Memberships: American Bar Association, 1986 – Present, State Bar of Texas, 1986 – Present, Texas Young Lawyers Association, Chair of the Board, TYLA Board of Directors, 1996-1997, Vice-President, TYLA Board of Directors, 1995-1996, Secretary, TYLA Board of Directors, 1994-1995, Director, TYLA Board of Directors, 1991-1994, Texas Bar Foundation, Life Fellow, Starr County Bar Association, 1986 – Present, College of the State Bar of Texas, Board Member 2006-2010, College of the State Bar of Texas, Member 1993 – Present, Pro Bono College of the State Bar of Texas, 1992 – Present, Sul Ross State University Alumni Association, Board Member, 2011- Present, South Texas Alumni & Friends of Sul Ross State University, Treasurer, 2007 – Present

Civic Organizations: City of Rio Grande City, Mayor, May 1996 – November 2004, Mayor Pro-Tem, 1994 – 1996, Alderman, 1993 – 1996, Rio Grande City Economic

Development Corporation, Secretary, 1994 – 1996, Rio Grande City Rotary Club Member, 1989 – Present, Treasurer, 1991 – 1993, Director, 1994 – 1996, President, 2007 – 2008, Rio Grande City Quarterback Club, President, 2006 – 2008, Starr County Child Welfare Board, Director, 1996 – 2000

Personal: Spouse: Araceli B. Garza, First Grade Teacher-Rio Grande City C.I.S.D, Children: Baldemar Garza, Jr., Oscar Omar Garza.

While at Sul Ross University the quiet, conservative Balde Garza meets the love of his life. From the beginning he committed himself whole-heartedly to her; Araceli Barrera from Del Rio, Texas, a cheerleader had swept him off his feet. I remember how early on he started his affection for Sally by calling her Reina. To this day and after 26 years married, Sally is Rey, short for Reina.

Balde and Sally have 2 great kids. BJ is a student at North Texas State and Oscar is a senior, top student, drum major and basketball player.

The Baldemar Garza Story

Baldemar’s honesty, integrity and will to be a true public servant make him a candidate for justice that we can all be proud of.

Now, as a former journalist, I’m going to ask him 5 questions, so here’s the interview.

1. Why run for Justice of the 4th Court of Appeals? The seven justices that sit on the Court are all from San Antonio. I feel it’s important to have a voice on this court.

2. If you win are you moving to San Antonio? I have not thought about it at this point. I have now filed and the campaign is getting started I’ll make that decision at the appropriate time.

3. What kind of impact do you think you can have on Deep South Texas by serving as a justice? As justice any cases that get appealed from Deep South Texas would have a voice that represents the border and the issues we have.

4. What do you think your mother would say to you right now if she were here? My mother would say to keep in mind where I came from and to make sure that my family and community is a priority.

5. Whom do you credit the most for your success and why? My mother, she was an inspiration and one of the hardest worker I ever knew she showed me how to persevere.

Hector Villarreal Named First Team All-State Player

Grulla High School’s Hector “Tiger” Villarreal has been selected as Class 32-3A All-State High School Football Player. Villarreal is currently a senior who has recently concluded his remarkable football career at Grulla High School. During this season, Hector’s defensive statistics were simply implausible! Standing at 5’8 and weighing 140lbs., Villarreal ledthe Gators

with 135 tackles, 95 solo tackles, 8 interceptions (one for a touchdown), 6 Quarterback sacks, 6 forced fumbles, and3 recovered fumbles. His remarkable performanceassisted the Gators to a heaping 7-4 record and the program’s first playoff appearance. Along with partaking in the remarkable Gator first ever playoff appearance, Hector was named District 32-3A Defensive Player of the Year. He was also a 1st Team All-District selection as a junior in 2010. Villarreal is not only an outstanding team player; he is also a dedicated and committed student who is self-disciplined and driven. Hector aspires to graduate in May and pursue his post-secondary education at Lindenwood University. We would like to congratulate Hector and his Football Coach Abel Gonzalez III for an awesome football season! Go Gators Go!

Javier “J.G” Garza seeks election for Precinct 5 Constable of Starr County

Javier “J.G” Garza would like to formally announce his intention to seek election for the office of Precinct 5 constable in San Isidro, Starr County. Javier is the son of Javier J. Garza from Santa Elena and Becky Rojas Garza from Delmita, Texas both have lived in the San Isidro Area for their whole lives. Javier has lived in the San Isidro Area all his life and intends to have a great impact on this precinct if elected.

Javier and his wife, Leonor Garza have been raising their twin boys Kris and Kaleb Garza to be proud of this rural community and to always intend to make things better, through hard work and good ethics. It is growing up in this small community that hasmade Javier the man he is today.

Javier graduated from San Isidro High School and attended South Texas Community College where he received his EMT state certification. He worked in the EMS industry for 4 years and then attended and completed training and state certification from the Rio Grande Valley Fire Academy, where he worked for the San Isidro Fire Department.

Javier has assisted the Starr County Sheriff Department and District 229 with their firearms training.

Javier is a Sig Sauer Instructor and Smith & Wesson M&P Armor as well as a Texas Concealed Handgun License Instructor. In the past, Javier and his employer Gravick Ranch have sponsored the Texas 4H Shooting Sports Program, which he is, the instructor/coach for and the Annual American Diabetes Law Enforcement/Physicians Shootout. Along with his wife, Javier is the head coach of his twins little league team and is an active member of the San Isidro Catholic Church, where he helps in the Annual San Isidro Festival.

Javier and Leonor along with their family would like to thank everyone for their support.

Starr Co. Fair Association seeking your support as a 2012 sponsor

On behalf of the Starr County Fair Association, we would like to request your support of this year’s Starr County Youth Fair. All proceeds from the fair go towards local scholarships, prize money for students, and premium money for animals, art, baking and other projects that are shown at the fair by our local youth.

The fair is one of the largest annual events that is held in Starr County. Our youth enter projects in many competitive divisions during our three day event. Participating youngsters range in age from preschool through high school seniors who are entering the fair for their final year, some of them after having participated every year since they were very young. Many of the projects entered are accomplished through a club such as Family

Career & Community Leaders of America, Art, 4-H, or an FFA chapter, and all require time and effort on the part of the young person and whatever adults assist him or her. The fair itself is comprised entirely of volunteers who give of their time and efforts to support our local youth.

Contribution levels are as follows: Diamond Starr ($5,000), Platinum Starr ($2,500-$4,999), Gold Starr ($1,000-$2,499), Silver Starr ($500-$999), Bronze Starr ($250-$499), and The 100 Club ($100).

Please remit payment to the Starr County Fair Association, P.O. Box 841, Rio Grande City, Texas 78582 by February 17, 2012 and we will add you to our sponsorship form. These forms will be used to help advertise and acknowledge your participation in the fair. Banner space will be available accordingly to contribution level along with other giveaway items such as sponsor caps and bandanas. The Starr County Fair Association is a non-profit corporation.

We hope that you will join us in supporting our local youth through an annual contribution to the Starr County Youth Fair. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact Ronnie Zamora at (956) 487-2306 or send an email to starrcountyfair@aol.com.

Roma ISD Mariachi Students Selected To All Region Orchestras

Three Roma ISD mariachi students were selected to be members of the 2011 Region 28 ALL REGION ORCHESTRAS. They were chosen after a rigorous audition process, competing against over one hundred violinists from Roma, La Joya, Sharyland, McAllen, Edinburg, PSJA, and South Texas school districts. They performed in concert at McAllen High School on December 3, 2011. Congratulations to Karina Ramírez, sophomore at Roma High School, Javier Martínez, eighth grader at Roma Middle School, and Victor Mayne, sixth grader at Ramiro Barrera Middle School for this incredible achievement. These musicians are under the direction of Mr. Noé Sánchez, Mr. Daniel Rentería, and Ms Corine García.

Local Needy Organizations Receive Toy Donations from Residents of Starr County

Lone Star National Bank employees, customers and friends were able to collect over a thousand brand new toys during their annual toy drive. All of the 24 Lone Star National Bank RGV branches spent close to a month collecting unwrapped toys to donate to needy children for several local groups. The branch located at 2300 E. HWY 83 in Rio Grande City received a tremendous amount of donations from the residents of Starr County. The toys collected during the drive were donated to several organizations including: CASA of Hidalgo County which donates to foster children in Hidalgo and Starr County and Estrella’s House, an organization that helps the lives of abused children in Hidalgo and Starr County by providing Hope, Healing and Justice. Other organizations that received donations from the toy drive were: Make-A-Wish Foundation of the Rio Grande Valley, the Buckner programs in the Rio Grande Valley; including the Rio Grande Children’s Home, the Servicing To At Risk Children (STAR) program, the Colonia Program and the Community Transformation Center. These particular organizations are in need of toys for children of all ages all year round. For more information on how to donate to any of these organizations listed above please call (956) 984-2836. Picture above left to right our Lone Star National Bank Employees: Roberto Alvarado, Mayra Hernandez, Brisa Gutierrez, and Leticia Cantu.

VETERANS MIDDLE SCHOOL

Students at Veterans Middle School donated over 1000 toys for the annual Toy for Rio Kids Drive that was sponsored by the Rio Grande City Police Department. Student Council members and sponsors from VMS spearheaded this charitable service project so that needy children from our community could have a new toy on Christmas morning. Pictured above are some of the VMS Student Council members, Mrs. Maricela O. Garcia (VMS Principal), Ms. San Juanita Olivarez (Student Council Sponsor) and officers from the RGC Police Department.

Several Veterans Middle School 7th graders from Mrs. Christina M. Chapa’s Math class are participating in the Math Counts “Reel Math Challenge”. These students created and starred in their own math video. This free online competition encourages student innovation. The 7th graders from VMS worked on this video project for two months before submitting it for competition. In order for VMS to go to the next round, their video must be viewed, voted for, and ranked in the top 20 most popular videos. Our community can support the VMS Reel Math Challenge Video by going to http://video.reelmath.org/home.aspx and look for the VMS Math video under the tab “New Videos” or search by problem 26. On the right side of the video, click on the “like” button. Voting ends on February 1, 2012 and you can vote once a day. Please support our students! Pictured above are 7th Grade Math students who created this video: Gabby Pena, Alexa Posas, Kiara Benavidez, and Dayla Trillayes.

40 Roma Middle School Band Students Earn Chairs in the All Valley Band!

The Best in the West!

On Saturday, December 10, 2011 in Pharr, Texas at PSJA High School, Middle School All-Region Band Tryouts were held. Over 30 Middle Schools from Roma to PSJA participated. Over nine hundred entered this competition and competed on their individual instruments for 282 chair positions. Statistics

show that only 1 out of every 4 students stands an opportunity to place a chair position in one of the three All-Region Bands. Given such difficult odds, 61 Roma Middle School Band students entered and 40 earned a chair and the distinct honor of being a member of the 2011-2012 All Valley Band. We are extremely proud of all participants and

extend our heart felt thanks and appreciation for the commitment and determination exemplified by all.

These students will be participating in a Clinic and Concert on January 20 and 21, 2012. You are cordially invited to attend the free concert at 7:00 pm at La Joya High School

ROMA, page 4

Auditorium on Saturday, January 21, 2012. We, the ROMA MIDDLE SCHOOL BAND STAFF are extremely proud of these young ladies and gentlemen.

We would also like to take this opportunity to thank the Roma Middle School Administration, Faculty, Roma I.S.D. Administration and Board of Trustees for their unfailing support.

The ROMA MIDDLE SCHOOL BAND is proud to announce that the following 40 students earned positions in the All-Valley Region Band in 2011-2012.

First row: CLARINETS: Natalie Lopez (Honors Band, 3rd Chair), Cassandra Garza (Honors Band, 10th Chair), Liana Garcia (Symphonic Band, 4th Chair), Julissa Maldonado (Symphonic Band, 2nd Chair), Adriana Gonzalez (Honors Band, 7th Chair), Valeria Guerra (Honors Band, 11th Chair), OBOES: Ashley Solis (Concert Band, 1st Chair), Valentina Toscano (Symphonic Band, 1st

Chair), FLUTE: Andrea Villarreal (Symphonic Band, 5th Chair), OBOE: Roberto Campos (Symphonic Band, 2nd Chair).

Second Row: BASS CLARINET: Luis Lozano (Honors Band, 1st Chair), Gisel Martinez (Symphonic Band, 3rd Chair), Grecia Martinez (Concert Band, 6th Chair), Alberto Cruz (Symphonic Band, 5th Chair), Severiano Garcia (Symphonic Band, 1st Chair), Kevin Melendez (Honors Band, 2nd Chair), FLUTES: Gregorio Garcia (Symphonic Band, 8th Chair), Lesly Hinojosa (Honors Band, 5th Chair), Brianda Alaniz (Symphonic Band, 3rd Chair).

Third Row: EUPHONIUM: Viviana Alaniz (Symphonic Band, 6th Chair), PERCUSSION: Daniel Garza (Honors Band, 3rd Chair), FRENCH HORN: Jesus Gonzalez (Symphonic Band, 1st Chair), Marissa Loera (Honors Band, 8th Chair), Alexandra Alvarez (Honors Band, 5th Chair), CORNETS: Diamonique Montoya (Honors Band, 7th Chair), Roberto Meza (Honors

Band, 1st Chair), Christian Pena (Symphonic Band, 1st Chair), Gerardo Lopez (Concert Band, 2nd Chair), TUBA: Manuel Trevino (Symphonic Band, 2nd Chair).

Fourth Row: EUPHONIUMS: Jose Mares-Rocha (Concert Band, 5th Chair), Samuel Hurtado (Honors Band, 2nd Chair), Julio De Leon (Honors Band, 4th Chair), Miguel Ramirez (Honors Band, 1st Chair), Fernando Lopez (Honors Band, 2nd Chair), Agustin Moreno (Honors Band, 4th Chair), Osbert Garza (Symphonic Band, 2nd Chair), Apolinar Guerra (Symphonic Band, 8th Chair), TUBAS: Jose Perez (Honors Band, 2nd Chair), and Alan Lopez (Symphonic Band, 1st Chair). Not Pictured: Jose Garcia (TUBA, Concert Band, 2nd Chair).

Students from Ringgold Middle School Mariachi Nuevo Cascabel recently participated in the TMEA Region XV All-Valley tryouts this December. Students competed against middle school students from eight other districts. Four Mariachi Nuevo Cascabel members came out victorious, as they earned a spot in the prestigious Region XV All-Valley Mariachi. These students will form part of one of two groups that is comprised of students earning a spot as well. Students prepared audition music in their corresponding instrument and will now showcase their talents in a concert in February. Students pictured above are left to right bottom row: Luis Villarreal-1st chair Bass Voice Group A, Kassandra Juarez-1st chair Alto Voice Group A. Top Row, left to right: Jessica Jones-3rd chair Guitar Group B, Noemy Vela-5th chair Violin Group A. Mariachi Nuevo Cascabel would like to thank the teachers, administration, and parents for thier support. Mariachi Nuevo Cascabel is under the direction of Mrs. Diana Laura Degollado and principalship of Mrs. Olga Smedley.

General Ricardo Sanchez Elementary Students Spread Holiday Cheer to Needy Families

Safety Patrols at General Ricardo Sanchez Elementary had a toy, clothes and food drive in order to spread some holiday cheer to less-fortunate families. Every item collected was donated to the Starr County Community Closet which serves families in need. We greatly appreciate parents, students and staff’s donations.

JAGUAR EXCELLENCE AWARDS: Pictured above with Starr County Campus Administrator, Ruben Saenz, are the two Starr County Campus instructors who were presented the Jaguar Excellence Award for their excellence in teaching at the South Texas College’s Ten Annual Employee Recognition Ceremony held at Nikki Rowe High School, McAllen, Texas. Eli Sarabia, left, teaches Psychology and co-sponsors the Psychology Club at the Starr County Campus. Rose E. Gutierrez, center, teaches mathematics and conducts numerous tutoring sessions to assist all mathematics students prepare well for semester final examinations. Saenz stated: “The Starr County Campus is indeed fortunate and proud to have these two outstanding faculty instructors. They provide quality instruction and set high standards for their students and for themselves as well. They consistently receive high ratings and praise from their students. Eli Sarabia and Rosa Gutierrez are Starr County natives and graduates from Roma High School.”

Roque Guerra, Jr. Elementary UIL students attended the Patricio Perez Elementary Area II UIL Invitational Meet on Saturday, November 12, 2011. Congratulations students for an exceptional job and thank you to all coaches for preparing the students for this event. Job well done!

Roma High School Band Students Earn 9 All Region Orchestra Chairs

Auditions were held for Region 15 Orchestra Saturday, November 12th. Roma HS had a number of successful students entered at this event held just 3 days after the Mighty Gladiator Marching Band returned from UIL State Marching Contest. The Region 15 Orchestra entries span from Roma to Alamo, Texas. Entries to this and most all TMEA individual events at the region level require our students to compete against 4A and 5A schools. This makes for a more challenging experience. We are proud to announce that 9 Roma HS band students earned a chair position in the Region Orchestra. This is the most of any 4A, or 5A band program in the region. These students represented Roma HS and its community at the Region Orchestra Clinic/Concert on Friday, and Saturday, December 2-3, culminating with a Grand Concert on Saturday evening. We are proud to announce our 9 Region 15 Orchestra members. They are: Clarinet: Yissel Rosalez 1st chair; Horn: Roberto Gonzalez, III 1st Chair, Jose G. Garza 3rd Chair; Trumpet: Lucio Gonzalez, III 1st Chair, Jacqueline Martinez 2nd Chair, and Keila Trevino 3rd chair; Bass Trombone: Horacio Longoria 1st Chair; Percussion: Mario Molina 1st Chair, Eduardo Rios, 4th chair. Congratulations to these musicians, their parents, and teachers. All of these students have advanced to Area competition January 7 in Alice, Texas as they pursue their dream of achieving “All State Musician”!

San Isidro Elementary School UIL Academic Team Sweepstakes Winners

The San Isidro Elementary School Academic UIL Team won the Sweepstakes Award at the Academic Invitational Meet on November 12, 2011.

UIL competitions allow our students to broaden their skills

as well as increase their scholarly curiosity. Competing in such a manner builds up the students’ confidence and social skills.

Mrs. Marisa Garza, Elementary UIL Coordinator, said of the victory, “We are

fortunate to work in a district that realized the value of UIL academic competition. Everyone strives to make these competitive activities a positive experience for the students.” The following students placed in individual events at the meet:

2nd Grade: Nicole Delgado– 1st Place Storytelling and 1st Place Creative Writing; Emma Garcia– 2nd Place Storytelling and 5th Place Creative Writing; Erin Villarreal– 3rd Place Storytelling.

3rd Grade: Bryan Benavides– 1st Place Number Sense, 5th Place Spelling, and 6th Place Mathematics; Kris Garza– 3rd Place Storytelling; Nicole Marquez– 1st Place Storytelling and 4th Place Oral Reading; Leslie Martinez– 6th Place Spelling and 6th Place Oral Reading; Karina Perez– 1st Place Oral Reading, 2nd Place Spelling, 4th Place Storytelling, and 5th Place Ready Writing. Wendy Sanchez– 1st Place Number Sense; Alex Valdez– 5th Place Number Sense.

4th Grade: Magdalena Carmona– 1st Place Art Smart; Jordan Garcia– 2nd Place Ready

Writing; Michael Lane– 1st Place Art Smart; Celene Longoria– 1st Place Oral Reading and 1st Place Art Smart; Jose L. Perez– 1st Place Art Smart; Demetrio Rivas– 6th Place Number Sense; Joshua Rojas– 2nd Place Number Sense and 4th Place Mathematics.

5th Grade: Nicholas Delgado– 1st Place Ready Writing, 2nd Place Dictionary Skills, and 2nd Place Spelling. Genaro Elizondo– 2nd Place Listening Skills; Allen Flores– 2nd Place Mathematics, 3rd Place Listening Skills, and 4th Place Number Sense. Marco Garza– 2nd Place Art Smart; Leslie Montoya– 2nd Place Art Smart; Catherine Perez– 1st Place Dictionary Skills, 1st Place Spelling, 2nd Place Art Smart, 4th Place Ready Writing, 6th Place Number Sense, 6th Place Mathematics, and 6th Place Listening Skills.

On Tuesday, Dec. 6, at the Starr County Courthouse Annex, local reporter Jesus Correa (left) unveiled his collection of historical photographs on behalf of the newly formed, Nuevo Santander Historical Foundation of Starr County. Dollie Olson (center) of the Nuevo Santander Historical Foundation and Rio Grande City Attorney Kennedy Salinas (right), admired the gorgeous photographs that showcased Roma, Rio Grande City and other areas within the county during the late 1800s on. All are welcomed to enjoy the display that is a preview of the Starr County Historical Museum that is currently underway. The stunning images include a young Britton Avenue and a bustling, horse drawn, Roma and will remain at the annex where everyone is encouraged to come and enjoy this treasured compilation of our community’s past.

Rep. Guillen Presents Ornament Designed By Roma Art Students For Texas House Christmas Tree

High School Art Club creates elaborate ornament with South Texas birding theme

Last week, State Representative Ryan Guillen, D-Starr County, presented the House District 31 ornament designed by members of the Roma High School Art Club to be displayed on the Lone Star Celebration Christmas Tree in the House Chamber at the Texas State Capitol.

Back in November, art teacher Monica Gillette and Roma High School Art Club members Hector Ochoa, Jessica Moreno, Michelle Garcia, Alexia Barrera, Vivian Cortez, were asked to decorate the District 31 ornament in a way that showcases the unique character of the district.

“Mrs. Gillette and her students truly went above and beyond in designing this year’s ornament,” said Rep. Guillen. “It’s a very impressive display of art that effectively captures the spirit of our region’s growing birding industry.”

The ornament represents Falcon Lake on the Rio Grande River, which stretches and connects the border counties of District 31, Starr, Zapata, and Webb. Roma is home to one of South Texas’s many birding centers, where visitors can view the diverse migratory birds of the area. The ornament features an ebony tree and a collection of the district’s most popular birds, including the Green Jay, Scarlet Tanager, Great Egret, Cardinal and the Audubon’s Oriole.

Since 2009, members of the Texas House have had the opportunity to create a tangible symbol of the invincible character and charm of their district with the House Ornament Project. The ornaments will hang proudly on a Texas-sized tree through January 6, 2012, and the story of each ornament will be displayed in an album so that visitors to the Chamber may learn each ornament’s story. Last year, nearly 100 members contributed ornaments.

Jesse Barrera Jr. announces his candidacy for Justice of the Peace for Starr County, Precinct 1.

My name is Jesse Barrera Jr. and I would like to formally announce my candidacy for Justice of the Peace for Starr County, Precinct 1.

I was born and raised in Precinct 1 by my parents, Jesse and Maricela Barrera, along with my two sisters, Crisabel and Cristal Barrera. I am a proud graduate of Rio Grande City High School, Class of 2003, and continued my education at The University of Texas-Pan American where I earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration. Throughout my life I have worked alongside my parents at the family businesses, Midway Paint & Body Shop, Midway Auto Paint & Supply, and Midway Wrecker Service. I have also worked for the Texas Health and Human Services Commission for two and a half years.

I am a member of the Immaculate Conception Church of Rio Grande City, and volunteer my time to the San Rosa De Lima Mission in La Rosita where I also teach CCE on Sunday mornings. I am also a member of the Rio Grande City A.C.T.S. group, which is a group of men that volunteer our time to serve our community. Another one of my volunteer projects is with the Diocese of Brownsville as a director of special activities aimed at young adults including those of Starr County.

Every year for about 10 years I, along with my family and friends, participate in an activity where we take gifts to the less fortunate children of the housing projects and the children from the orphanage. I have also been part of a Christmas event which is sponsored by The Children’s Welfare Board, where I dressed as Santa Claus and gave out gifts to those children that are being serviced by the Children Protective Service. I have also volunteered my time to help out with Operation Lone Star in Starr County, which is an event where both adults and children receive medical services by doctors and dentists. I am also a founding member of the Starr County Young Democrats, which motivates young voters to participate in the voting process.

I am a strong believer and doer in working and doing what is right for the well being of our community. I feel obligated and ready to serve my community in a manner that would be fair, just, and honest. And that would be through having the honor of serving you as Justice of the Peace of Precinct 1.

VMS 7th Grade Rattlers Win District Championship

Congratulations to the Veterans Middle School 7th Grade Rattler Football Team for becoming the 2011-2012 District Champs! They were undefeated with a 5-0 record in district. VMS is very proud of the mighty 7th Grade Rattlers for their athletic accomplishment and the coaches for leading these future Rattlers to victory. Football players who participated in the winning championship game are Rigoberto Marroquin, Alex Garcia, Edgar Garza, Victor Olivarez, Robert D. Saenz, Alberto Mireles, Corey Lozano, Casimiro Olivarez, Luis Lopez, Juan Vasquez, Hendrick Palacios, Chris Garza, Javier Garcia, Gilbert Garcia, Jesus Saenz, Juan Martinez, Jorge Ortega, Victor Moreno, Dillon McGuffin, Edgar Rodriguez, Adan Figueroa, Victor Marquez, Joel Garza, Isaac Ortiz, Brendon Gonzalez, Alejandro Islas, Hector Alaniz, Jorge de la Cruz, Julio Gonzalez, Reymundo Guerrero, Elias Bazan, Bryan Lopez, Adam Canales, and Julio Morin. Coaches for this team were Omar Garcia, Frankie Mireles, Jesus Garcia, and Noe Rodriguez.

Rio Grande City Rattler Boys Freshmen Team win Roma First Annual Basketball Tourney. Currently Freshmen are 7-0 season 2-0 in district play. Picture above top left to right are: Alex Castaneda, Jaime Hinojosa, Victor Saenz, Joel Alaniz, Jacob Canales, Jose Pulido, and Freshmen coach Jose Hinojosa. Bottom left to right are: Rene Gonzalez, Andre Moreno, Derek Jones, Steban Sepulveda, and Anniel Lopez. Follow Freshmen boys at “ teamrio.weebly.com”

RHS Choir students perform with the District/Region Choir

Students in picture: (Back row, l-r) Daniel Ortiz, Alejandro Rodríguez, and José Carlos Ramírez. (Middle row, l-r) Óliver Ramírez, Julio Colunga, and Noé Ruiz. (Bottom row, l-r) Rebeca García and Alejandra Guerrero.

On Saturday, November 19, 2011, eight members of the Roma High School Choir shared a memorable and deeply moving experience as they performed with the District and Region Choirs at the McAllen High School auditorium. These students were selected through a series of auditions that began in September with more than 200 students from throughout the upper Rio Grande Valley area. The choirs were under the direction of Dr. Joey Martin, Director of Choral Activities at Texas State University in San Marcos, Texas. He was very impressed with the enthusiasm and professionalism of the students as he shaped and polished their singing. The RHS choir students who participated in this event are: Alejandra Guerrero, Rebeca Garcia, Oliver Ramirez, Daniel Ortiz, Jose Carlos Ramirez, Alejandro Rodriguez, Noe Ruiz, and Julio Colunga. We congratulate these students for their dedication and for all the sacrifices they made to qualify for this honor.

Several of the Roma High School Choir participants shared some thoughts regarding this experience.

“It was a wonderful experience sharing such great music with people who greatly appreciate the music.” (Julio Colunga, 12th grade)

“Having people that don’t even know each other come together and sing masterpieces is one of the best experiences ever.” (Jose Carlos Ramirez, 10th grade)

“It was a memorable experience that I would never forget because I was around people who appreciate and take music seriously.” (Alejandro Rodriguez, 12th grade)

“This was a great experience as I was able to sing with great voices from other schools.” (Noe Ruiz, 11th grade)

“I think that the concert was an awesome experience.” (Oliver Ramirez, 9th grade)

EMPLOYEE OF THE YEAR: Pictured above is the Starr County Campus Employee of the year, Maria G. Garcia, center, with Starr County Campus Administrator, Ruben Saenz, right, and Abel Reyna, Lead Custodian III. The award was presented to Garcia at the South Texas College’s Tenth Annual Employee Recognition Ceremony held on November 11, 2011. Saenz stated: “For the past ten years Maria Garcia has exhibited great pride in keeping the buildings, sidewalks, and even the campus grounds clean, safe, and inviting for the students, faculty, staff and community. Visitors to the campus always comment on its excellent upkeep. While it takes a team effort by the entire custodial staff to keep the campus as pristine as possible, Ms. Garcia, by her work ethic and attention to detail, serves as a role model for the other custodians. A positive attitude and ever present smile are her trademarks. One can hear her cheerfully whistling a variety of tunes as she goes about her work. She is truly deserving of this prestigious award.”

Senator Zaffirini Files For Re-Election In 2012

Senator Judith Zaffirini, D-Laredo, today filed her candidacy for re-election to the Texas Senate in 2012.

The second-highest ranking senator will run in a newly configured Senate District (SD) 21. The new Senate District 21 includes all or part of 18 counties, namely, Atascosa, Bee, Caldwell, Bexar, Duval, Guadalupe, Hays, Jim Hogg, Karnes, La Salle, Live Oak, McMullen, San Patricio, Starr, Travis, Webb, Wilson and Zapata.

Senator Zaffirini has been recognized repeatedly for her tireless leadership and work ethic. She is the only legislator in the nation with an impressive career-long 100 percent voting record, having cast 47,584 consecutive votes since January, 1987.

“Serving in the Texas Senate continues to afford countless opportunities to make a difference for Texas families,” Senator Zaffirini said. “I am humbled by the honor of working diligently on their behalf.”

She has won nine landslide victories, carrying every county in a far-reaching, multi-county district in every election—something no one else has ever done.

“My priorities continue to be education in general, with a focus on early childhood and higher education,” Senator Zaffirini said, “and health and human services in general, with a focus on the very young, the very old, the very poor and persons with disabilities.”

She serves as Chair of the Senate Higher Education Committee; Co-Chair of the Legislative Oversight Committee on Higher Education Governance, Excellence and Transparency; and as a member of the Legislative Budget Board and of the Senate Committees on Finance, Redistricting, health and Human Services, Economic Development and Administration.

Judith and Laredo Attorney Carlos Zaffirini have been married for 46 years. Their son, Carlos Jr., runs a health care finance company and holds business and law degrees from UT-Austin.

Always interested in addressing issues of local and statewide importance, Senator Zaffirini has passed 725 bills. She has won more than 670 awards and honors for her legislative, public service and professional work. In 2011, Texas Monthly has named her to its list of Texas’ 10 Best Legislators for the fourth time, and the Texas Observer honored her with the People’s Friend: Lord’s Work Award.

Senator Zaffirini holds B.S., M.A. and PhD degrees from The University of Texas at Austin, each with a 3.97 GPA.

Roma Student Wins McGraw-Hill Education “This Is My Math” Student Art Contest

Samantha, a 1st Grade student from Emma Vera Elementary in Roma has been named a winner in a national art contest from McGraw-Hill Education. Samantha is one of 12 winners, two from each grade K-5, of the “This is My Math” student art contest. Designed to inspire students’ passion for math and other science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) fields, the national contest challenged students to illustrate what math means to them through sculpture, drawing, painting and photography.

An expert panel of judges, including artists, educators and journalists selected Samantha’s artwork out of more than 2,400 entries submitted from young artists across the nation. To display her passion for math, Samantha created “I Add and Subtract 1.” Samantha’s artwork will be featured prominently in McGraw-Hill’s new My Math course materials and at the opening of the Museum of Mathematics in New York City. View Samantha’s artwork and the other winning selections in an online gallery at https://www.mheonline.com/.

“The passion, creativity and love of math displayed in Samantha’s entry captures the spirit of the ‘This is My Math’ contest,” said Lisa O’Masta, vice president, McGraw-Hill School Education. “It is our hope that this passion for math – and STEM education – will extend beyond the contest, and is contagious in classrooms across the country, promoting an interactive learning environment for these important fields of study.”

Emma Vera Elementary will receive nearly $15,000 in fun and functional classroom prizes through the generous support of contest sponsors including Promethean, netTrekker, Psychological Software Solutions, Intel, Texas Instruments, eInstruction, VWR Education/Science Kit, The Math Forum @ Drexel and Crayola.

On Saturday, Oct. 29, 2011, Ringgold Middle School attended a UIL Invitational Meet at B. L. Gray Jr. High at Mission, Texas. Ringgold Middle School competed against schools from Mission, Edinburg, Harlingen, and Sharyland. Ringgold Middle School excelled at this competition by achieving 1st Place Sweepstakes at the 6th Gr. Division, 1st Place Sweepstakes at the 7th Gr. Division, and 3rd Place Sweepstakes at the 8th Gr. Division. Overall, Ringgold Middle School received 1st Place Sweepstakes. We want to congratulate our students and UIL coaches for their commitment and dedication to UIL academics. We want to take this opportunity to thank Mrs. Olga Smedley-RMS Principal, Mr. Jesus A. Martinez-Asst. Principal & UIL Coordinator, Mrs. Diana G.Lopez-Asst. Principal and Mrs. Patricia O. Soto-Dean of Instruction for their continuous help, encouragement, and support. A special thanks to all the RMS UIL parents for their commitment to help us achieve excellence with our UIL academic program.

As Rio Grande City High School held its Homecoming festivities Daryl (DJ) Lopez was named 2011 Cheerleading Beau, and Ilissa (Lisi) Valenciana was named 2011 Football Sweetheart. Daryl Lopez was also awarded 32-4A 1st team, all district while Ilissa Valenciana was awarded UCA All American Cheerleader. Congratulations

Grulla High School Establishes Future Farmers of America Chapter

The Grulla High School Future Farmers of America (FFA) Chapter proudly announces the establishment of their new FFA Chapter. Leadership is provided by student officers who are elected by the chapter’s members and by the agriculture teacher, who serves as the advisor for the chapter. FFA is dedicated to making a difference in the lives of students by developing their leadership potential, personal growth and career success through agricultural education. The heart of the FFA Organization is found at the local chapter level. Pictured above from left to right (top row) are: Mr. Enrique Lopez (FFA Chapter Advisor), David Lee Gutierrez (Member), Israel Gonzalez (Member), Roberto Barrera (Member), Luis Carlos Reyna (Member), and Abiel Arnoldo Arechiga (Member). On the bottom row from left to right are: Cristal Lopez (President), Xandria Adriana Nedzelsky (Vice-President), Azeneth Vianey Solis (Member & Chapter Sweetheart), Margarita Martinez (Reporter), Yulissa Gonzalez (Secretary), and Adan Montemayor (Member). Not pictured Jerry Rivera (Sentinel). The FFA motto gives members twelve short words to live by as they experience the opportunities in the organization: “Learning to Do, Doing to Learn, Earning to Live, Living to Serve”. Mr. Lopez and his FFA members would like to thank Mr. Joel Trigo, Jr., GHS Principal and his administration for their continual support.

VICTOR CANALES, JR. SEEKS RE-ELECTION FOR THE OFFICE OF THE COUNTY ATTORNEY OF STARR COUNTY

Victor Canales, Jr. formally announces his intention to seek Re-Election for the office which he currently holds, Starr County Attorney. Victor was first elected to his current office by the voters of Starr County in 2003. Before

his election as Starr County Attorney, he was the Assistant County Attorney for three years and an Assistant District Attorney for one. All totaled, Victor has served Starr County as aprosecutor for over 10 years.

Victor is the only son of Victor Canales, Sr., of Roma, Texas and Estela Carrera Canales of Rio Grande City, Texas. A great source of pride for him is the fact that his family roots stretch from one side of the County to the other. This has helped him understand Starr County and its needs. “My family has always been about serving our community”, mentions Victor when discussing his upbringing. From his Paternal Grandfather Octavio Canales driving school

buses in Roma to his Maternal Grandfather Marcelo Carrera, owning and operating a Carniseria (Suspiro’s Meat Market) in Rio Grande City. The betterment of his community has always been his priority.

Victor and his wife, Vanessa Michelle Canales from Salineno, have tried to instill a love for community and pride in their heritage in their three children: Victor III, Velia Marlette and Vivien Leigh. It is his pride and love for Starr County, which has been home to both him and his wife, Vanessa, that has made Victor want to continue his role as a humble, community servant. He and Vanessa decided long ago to raise a family here in Starr County because they wanted to see their children grow up in the County which they both love.

Victor was born and raised in Roma, Texas. He graduated from Roma High School before attending Texas A&M University,

where he went on to graduatewith a Degree of Bachelor of Arts in History in 1994. From there he continued his education at St. Mary’s University School of Law, earning a degree of Juris Doctorate in 1997. Victor was later admitted to practice law in the State of Texas in that same year. He promptly moved his family to Starr County, a move which he and has never regretted. Victor first ran for the office of Starr County Attorney in 2004 and was sworn in on January,

2005.

Victor has been a member of Immaculate Conception Church since 2000. He recently completed the ACTS retreat. He is a member of The Knights of Columbus, the Mr. and Mrs. Club, and the Alhambra. Victor is proud to serve the RGCCISD as their legal counsel. Victor and Vanessa respectfully ask for your continued support. “I thank everyone for your confidence in me thus far and hope that you will continue to place your faith in me.

Congratulations to the Veterans Middle School 8th Grade Rattler Football Team for defeating all other teams in their district and becoming the 2011-2012 District Champs! This athletic accomplishment is especially noteworthy because the 8th grade VMS football team has now earned the distinctive honor of being Back To Back District Champs for two years in a row! They were the 2010-2011 District Champs and now they are the 2011-2012 District Champs as well. They finished out the season with an undefeated record of 8-0. Congratulations to the football players and their coaches. Football players who participated in the championship game include Iram Galvan, Dante Silva, Celestino Molina, Gerardo Garcia, Aaron Castillo, Daniel Garza, Christian Elizondo, Daniel Pena, Ivan Garcia, Juan Toscano, Juan Saenz, Mauro Sandoval, Leeroy Lund, Usbaldo Guerra, Milton Gonzalez, Adrian Piceno, Noah Barba, Bobby Reyes, Gerardo Eligio, Roger Benavides, Victor Pedraza, Abraham Reyes, Roberto Martinez, Jonathan Lopez, Joel Reyes, David Garza, Lino Carrion, Ivan Posada, Jesse Vela, Martin Reyes, Felix Gonzalez, Shane Melton, Joel Reyes, Elias Orta, Luis Garcia, Leonel Garcia, and Arturo Ozuna. Coaches for the winning team were Alvaro Garcia, Nole Garcia, David Pratt, and Jesse Salinas.

City of Roma Celebrates Two Great Anniversaries

Come out and celebrate two great Anniversaries in Roma. The Roma Bluffs World Birding Center’s 5th Anniversary and the City of Roma’s 75th Anniversary.

On Monday, December 12th there will be a variety of activities like bird walks of the birding center courtyard and overlook area, museum tours, local speakers, local artists featuring natural art, local authors showcasing the beauty of the Lower Rio Grande Valley, food vendors, Toys for Tots, music, Christmas tree judging, and much more. Events will begin at 10:00 a.m. and continue on into the evening. Come celebrate the history and culture of Roma.

If you have any other questions, contact Christine at 956-849-4930 or the City of Roma at 956-849-1411.

Starr County Farm Bureau Board Leads Annual Meeting --- An Appreciation Award was presented to Helen Shuford and family in memory of John A. Shuford at the annual meeting of the organization, held recently at the Multipurpose Center. Presenting the award was director Fausto Salinas, Jr., at left. Shuford, a past president of Starr County Farm Bureau and winner of the prestigious Texas Farm Bureau Pioneer Award, was recognized for his outstanding dedication to and support of the Starr County Farm Bureau and Texas Farm Bureau. Pictured with Helen Shuford are son Bill and daughter-in-law Jerri Shuford.

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