Martinez foundation supports LCC Zapata program

Trustees from the Guadalupe and Lilia Martinez Foundation announced on Tuesday, June 29, at Zapata High School the donation of $120,000 to support the LCC Zapata Satellite Jump-Start Program. Officials from Laredo Community College, Zapata County Independent School District and the City of Zapata were on hand for the announcement. They are, from left, front row, Zapata County Judge-Elect Joe Rathmell, Zapata County Commissioner Jose Vela, Martinez Foundation advisory trustee David Slaughter Jr., Martinez Foundation vice president Deacon Larry Sandlin, LCC President Juan L. Maldonado; back row, Zapata County Treasurer Romeo Salinas, LCC Education Foundation vice president Andres Cuellar, LCC South Dean Luciano Ramon and LCC Education Foundation Ex-Officio Ramiro V. Martinez.

Perry appoints LISD educator to state panel

Gov. Rick Perry earlier this month appointed Diana Juarez, Laredo Independent School District director of staff development, to the Communities in School State Advisory Committee. The nine-member State Advisory Committee, appointed by the governor, lieutenant governor and speaker of the house, works closely with the Texas Education Agency and the CIS State Office to help provide guidance and support the implementation and growth of the program statewide.

The governor and the lieutenant governor made several appointments and reappointments to the CIS State Advisory Committee this month that will bring a great deal of knowledge and skills to the committee.

"I want to congratulate Mrs. Diana Juarez on her appointment to the Communities in School State Advisory Committee," said Marcus Nelson LISD superintendent. "She is truly deserving of this honor. Her commitment to LISD and public education is unquestionable."

Juarez recently completed serving six years on the OneStar National Service Commission Board. She has been with LISD for 34 years. Juarez was previously director of elementary education, supervisor of language arts, principal at J.C. Martin Elementary, assistant principal at Macdonell Elementary and a teacher at Zachry Elementary School. She received a bachelor's in elementary education and a master's degree in administration.

For more information, contact the Office of Communication at 795-3295.

LCC police academy graduates 16 cadets

Caption: The South Texas Border Regional Police Academy of Laredo Community College celebrated the graduation of 16 cadets in the A-10 Class on Thursday, May 20 in the Kazen College Center. Pictured, from left, front, they are police academy assistant director Israel Santillan, Arturo Pedraza, Juan C. Roque, Arcilia Sanchez, Dennise Luna, Juan Ramirez Jr., Javier Cano, police academy director Donald R. Hale; back, Apolonio Lozano, Adalberto Cardenas, Marco A. Samaniego, Alberto E. Ramos, Jose M. Ramirez, Pedro A. Juarez Jr., Carlos Castillejos, Roberto A. Ayala.

Area law enforcement has armed itself with more certified peace officers thanks to 16 graduating Laredo Community College cadets who have passed the state certification exam.

The cadets, members of the A-10 basic peace officer class, were honored at a graduation ceremony, hosted by the LCC South Texas Border Regional Police Academy, on Thursday, May 20, in the Kazen College Center at the Fort McIntosh Campus.

In addition to completing the 19-week basic peace officer training program at the LCC South Campus, the cadets were recognized for accomplishing a 100 percent pass rate on the Texas Certified Law Enforcement Officer State Examination (TCLEOSE). All 16 cadets who took the exam achieved a passing score and are now Texas-certified peace officers.

The graduation class includes Roberto A. Ayala, Javier Cano, Adalberto Cardenas, Carlos Castillejos, Alberto Estrada, Adan Jasso, Pedro A. Juarez Jr., Apolonio Lozano, Dennise Luna, Arturo Pedraza, Jose M. Ramirez, Juan Ramirez Jr., Alberto E. Ramos, Juan C. Roque, Marco A. Samaniego and Arcilia Sanchez.

"As one of the leading trainers for law enforcement in the state, Laredo Community College is pleased to recognize this group of cadets for completing their law enforcement training and excelling in the state certification exam," academy director Donald Hale said.

In order to be admitted to the LCC Police Academy, participating cadets must be sponsored by a law enforcement agency.

The agencies that sponsored the cadets included the Webb County Sheriff's Office, Webb County Constable Precincts 1, 2 and 4, and the Jim Hogg County Sheriff's Department.

Several cadets were singled out with special awards, including the first-time presentation of the Golden Eagle Award, which was created to honor the graduating class' top overall student in memory of the late Captain Ricardo Acosta, who was a longtime trainer and academy instructor.

Pedro Juarez received the Golden Eagle Award.

The other special awards presented during the graduation ceremonies included the Academic Achievement Award to Roberto A. Ayala, the Cadet Mentor Award to Juan Carlos Roque, and the Top Gun Award to Jose M. Ramirez.

The 760-hour basic peace officer training program at LCC is comprised of rigorous physical training and study focusing on a variety of topics including the penal code, family violence, code of criminal procedures, firearms training, defensive tactics, emergency driving, patrol procedures, criminal investigating, mechanics of arrest, cultural diversity, history of policing, U.S. and Texas constitution and traffic law.

For more information about the LCC Police Academy, call 794-4908.

For college students interested in a career with a law enforcement agency, LCC also offers an Associate of Applied Science Degree in Criminal Justice.

For more information, contact the LCC Protective Services Department by calling 794-4710.

Second summer session payment due Thursday

Laredo Community College students who have already registered for the second summer session are reminded to pay their tuition and fees by Thursday, July 1, to secure their space in class.

Payments can be made either in person at the LCC Bursar's Office at either the Ft. McIntosh or South campuses by 6 p.m. or online via PASPort's student account system at https://pasport.laredo.edu by 11 p.m.

Students who fail to pay by the deadline will lose their space in class and will need to go through the registration process again.

Advising for summer and fall classes will continue Monday through Thursday, June 28-July 1.
Students who have declared a major can get advised from 1 to 6 p.m. at the instructional department that corresponds to their major.

All other students can get advised from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the Student Success Center at the Fort McIntosh Campus or at the Counseling Center at the South Campus.

Students planning to attend LCC this summer and fall are encouraged to register as soon as possible to lock in their classes.

Those who are considered self-advised may register for the second summer session, as well as the fall semester, via PASPort from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. from any computer with Internet access.

To be considered self-advised, students must have a declared major, have completed all required remediation courses, have earned at least 30 college-level hours, and have a cumulative grade point average of 2.0 or higher.

Payment deadline for the second summer session is July 1 and Aug. 19 for the fall semester.

The first day of class for summer session two is July 8 and August 23 for the fall semester.

To view the summer and fall class schedules, log on to www.laredo.edu and click on the PASPort icon.

For more information, contact the LCC Registration Center at the Fort McIntosh Campus at 721-5117 or at the South Campus at 794-4109.

TAMIU students, professors talk economics in D.C.

Texas A&M International University graduate students joined TAMIU faculty members of the A. R. Sanchez Jr. School of Business for a summer learning journey exploring international economic policy in Washington, D.C., May 23-30.

The TAMIU delegation participating in the International Policy and Strategy Briefing included four faculty members and eight Ph.D. and MBA students for the eight-day trip.

The trip was led by Tagi Sagafi-nejad, Radcliffe Killam Distinguished Professor of International Business and sponsored by the university's A. R. Sanchez Jr. School of Business and the Center for the Study of Western Hemispheric Trade. The project was funded in part by a grant from the U.S. Department of Education Title VI.B (BIE Grant).

Sagafi-nejad said it was the first of its kind to offer such an extensive learning opportunity.

"This was an historic undertaking by the university. The group toured and met with leadership of the World Bank, Organization of American States, Council on Foreign Relations, U. S. Department of State, United States Congress, Center for Strategic and International Studies, Inter-American Dialogue, Overseas Private Investment Corporation, the Cato Institute and the Library of Congress. All told, they received some 24 briefings from senior scholars and policy makers at 11 institutions," Sagafi-nejad said.

Ph.D. student Aditya Limaye said the experience was one to be cherished for a lifetime.

"It was a wonderful and unique experience indeed. Firstly, the various organizations and the think-tanks that we visited enhanced my knowledge about the various issues in International policy and strategy. Secondly, the group consisted of faculty members, staff, Ph.D. and MBA students and provided an excellent opportunity for students like me to interact with the faculty. The practical knowledge that I gained by being a part of this unique experience cannot be learnt by reading any textbook. This was an experience that I shall always cherish throughout my career," Limaye said.

Julie Barrera, an MBA student, concurred.

"It was an amazing educational experience. This trip was a blessing and it has helped me to get one step closer to a master's degree in Business Administration in International Trade," Barrera assured.

Leonel Prieto, TAMIU assistant professor of management, noted the opportunity to witness change in action.

"It provided a first-hand and unique experience through the briefings and discussions held at a set of key think tanks, and institutions such as the Organization for American States (OAS), the State Department, and the World Bank. We had the opportunity to witness some change attempts which may be crucial, if realized. At the same time, it was disappointing to remind ourselves again and again that substantive change is difficult to bring about," Prieto explained.

Students participating included: doctoral students Peerayuth Charoensukmongkol, Jose L. Daniel, Ahmed Elkassabgi, Aditya R. Limaye and Shaun C. Sexton. MBA students attending were Julie E. Barrera, Lesly E. Cedillo and Rossy Cerda.

Faculty and staff members attending were Jorge Brusa (associate professor of Finance); Pablo Camacho (assistant professor of Economics); Kamal Parhizgar (professor of Management); Leonel Prieto and Antonio Rodriguez (professor of Finance).

Organizers say they hope to offer similar opportunities in the future. The group is completing a report of their experiences which will be posted on the university's website.

For additional information, call the Center for the Study of Western Hemispheric Trade at 326-2548 or e-mail cswht@tamiu.edu

Summer university office hours are 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 8 a.m.-noon Friday.

TAMIU receives CASE award

Texas A&M International University has been named the recipient of a 2010 Council for Advancement and Support of Education (CASE) WealthEngine Award for Educational Fundraising, the only university in Texas to receive the award.

CASE President John Lippincott, notifying the university of the award, praised TAMIU, noting by "demonstrating the highest levels of professionalism and best practice in its fundraising efforts, it has contributed to the betterment of educational advancement worldwide."

The award honors superior fundraising programs across the country. Of 1,005 higher education institutions eligible for consideration, only 253 institutions were selected based on blind and data-driven review. The award is a component of CASE's Circle of Excellence program.

TAMIU was also named to the Circle of Excellence with its selection as an Overall Improvement Award recipient in light of its fundraising success over the past three years.

The university's fundraising efforts are directed by its Office for Institutional Advancement, led by Candy Hein, vice president.

TAMIU president Ray Keck lauded the efforts of Hein and her staff in securing gifts of lasting impact for the university.

"Whether much-needed scholarship monies for our students, research and program development assistance for our faculty, or opportunities to enhance our ever-growing campus, Hein's office works tirelessly to secure that extra measure - and make a crucial difference in all our lives. In these times of financial challenges, their ability to help the university engage new and continued support for TAMIU is inspiring," Keck said.

For more information on the university's fundraising needs and ways to assist, contact Hein at 3216-GIVE (4483), visit tamiu.edu or e-mail candy.hein@tamiu.edu Summer university office hours are 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 8 a.m.-noon Friday.

For more information on CASE, visit www.case.org

LISD students attend the Bert Corona Leadership Institute

Two Laredo ISD students spent their first week of summer traveling to the nation's capitol. Ruben Barron of Nixon High School and Clarissa Cuellar of the Early College High School participated in the Bert Corona Leadership Institute in Washington, D.C., in early June.

Barron is the son of Joanne and Isidro Cornejo and Cuellar is the daughter of Guadalupe Ramos and Jesus Garcia. On their field trips, the students visited historical sites such as the U.S. Capitol, the Holocaust Museum, the White House and Arlington Cemetery. They were also honored with the opportunity to meet Congressman Henry Cuellar at the Capitol. They learned about the legislative process, policy making, writing letters to congress, and leadership skills.

The leadership institute provides participants the opportunity to attend a one-week Civic Leadership Training Program. Participants were able to experience "hands on" civic and public policy and leadership training and were able to gain a full understanding of the internal workings of the United States government at both the local and national levels. Students were also able to participate in experiential learning and meetings with key government officials and Washington insiders.

Bert Corona was a union organizer born in 1918 who worked to provide Mexican Americans with better wages and living conditions. He dedicated his life to fighting economic and social injustices among Hispanics.

Barron and Cuellar were nominated by the LISD Federal Programs Department. The final selections were made by the Region One Education Service Center. Participants must be incoming high school seniors and current migrant students. Nominations were based on the student's grades and performance.

"My favorite part of the trip was meeting new friends, networking, and making important contacts. The experiences we had will stay with me for the rest of my life," Barron said.

LISD elementary educators heading to Harvard

Two LISD educators were selected for the Raise Your Hand Texas Leadership Program at Harvard University in Boston, Mass. Myrtala Ramirez, who was just named LISD director of Elementary Education, and Cynthia Conchas, principal of Macdonell Elementary School, will be attending the week-long program scheduled for July 15-22.

The 2010 Raise Your Hand Texas Leadership Program invites more than 100 top public and charter school campus leaders to the Principals’ Center at the Harvard Graduate School of Education to participate in one of five Summer Institutes. Conchas and Ramirez will be attending sessions led by national and international experts in the fields of education and leadership.

In addition, the Harvard Leadership program requires principals to examine best practices, determine effective leadership qualities, and develop leadership capacity that they can use at their campuses.

Ramirez, who was nominated by Executive Director of Curriculum and Instruction Linda Theret, said, "I am particularly honored that I was selected to attend a high caliber training and that I will be receiving instruction by renowned professionals. This is going to be an amazing opportunity to network and of course serve as professional development for me."

Ramirez received an all-expense scholarship that will cover tuition, lodging, air fare, and books.

Conchas, who was also nominated by Theret, said she plans "on incorporating what I learn with my teachers and staff during staff developments this school year to ensure that our campus remains an exemplary one."

After being nominated, the pair submitted a series of essays to the Raise Your Hand Advisory Board. Based on their response, both Ramirez and Conchas were notified of their selection with a letter of acceptance. In preparation for their trip to Harvard, they have begun working on their assignments and have also begun reading and researching required materials for their courses.

Raise Your Hand Texas is a nonprofit bipartisan advocacy group. Its 25,000 members consist of business and community leaders, parents, and citizens with the focus of supporting the students and staff of the Texas public school system.

The Harvard Graduate School of Education offers programs through its summer institute series in its Principal's Center, which provides school leaders all over the world with professional training.

Borden hosts art contest with $1,000 grand prize

Borden Milk is joining Reading Is Fundamental, Inc. (RIF) to announce the “Elsie the Cow’s Reading Adventures” Art Contest. Borden and RIF have teamed up to promote the joy of reading for local Laredo children, as well as nine other cities throughout Texas and Louisiana, and help encourage families to fuel up for learning.

As part of a multi-year commitment to support children’s literacy, the contest will offer one winner from Laredo a chance to win a $1,000 literacy grant for their local school or a non-profit organization of their choice as well as a prize package, including a year’s supply of fresh and delicious Borden Milk, $50 book-retailer gift card, Borden T-shirt, Elsie the Cow stickers, Borden pencils, Borden growth chart and a certificate from RIF.

“RIF is pleased to partner with Borden Milk to promote reading as an essential key to success,” said Carol H. Rasco, president and CEO for RIF. “These literacy grants will provide books and reading materials to help children throughout Texas and Louisiana discover the joy of reading.”

Entrants can submit an original drawing inspired by the theme “Elsie the Cow’s Reading Adventures.” The art should convey the joy of reading and can include images of books, milk and Elsie the Cow. The contest begins on May 10 and ends on June 30 – winners will be announced in August. The contest is open to children ages 6-12 in the following cities in Texas: Austin, Corpus Christi, Dallas/Fort Worth, Houston, Laredo, McAllen, San Antonio, and Texarkana as well as the following markets in Louisiana: Baton Rouge and Lafayette.

“Borden understands the importance of providing kids with the essential nutrients needed to develop sharp minds and is honored to partner with RIF,” said Rick Beaman, president for Borden. “We are excited to give back to our local communities and we want to encourage children across our area to fuel up to be smart with a good book and Borden milk.”

For more information about “Elsie the Cow’s Reading Adventures” Art Contest, including the entry form and official rules, please visit please visit www.bordenonline.com. Questions can be sent to elsie@rif.org.

Laredoans excel at Boston University

Two Laredo residents received degrees from Boston University and another was recently named to the Dean's List.

Receiving degrees were Eryn K. Reinhardt, Bachelor of Arts in classical civilization; Kelsey Lidsky, Bachelor of Science in communication.

Hannah M. Somerville, a resident of Laredo, has been named to the Dean's List at Boston University for the Spring semester.

Boston University is the fourth largest independent university in the United States, with an enrollment of more than 29,000 students in its 17 schools and colleges. The university offers an exceptional grounding in the liberal arts, a broad range of programs in the arts, sciences, engineering, and professional areas, and state-of-the-art facilities for teaching and research.

UISD changes schedule July 5-July 9

Most UISD campuses and offices will be closed during the district’s summer break scheduled for Monday, July, 5 to Friday July 9, 2010.

Please note that special hours have been designated for the following departments.

UISD Tax Office - located at 3501 East Saunders, will be open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday, July 5 through Thursday, July 8. The tax office will be closed on Friday, July 9.

UISD Reception Office - located at 201 Lindenwood Avenue, will be open from 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday, July 5, through Thursday, July 8. The reception office will be closed on Friday, July 9.

UISD Shipping and Receiving - located at 3501 East Saunders, will be open from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday, July 5, through Thursday, July 8. The Shipping and Receiving Department will be closed on Friday July 9.

For more information, contact the UISD Office of Public Relations at (956) 473-6286.

LCC breaks enrollment record by 7.55 percent

A record 3,916 students enrolled in classes at Laredo Community College this first summer session, marking a 7.55 percent increase over last summer's first session enrollment of 3,641.

This marks another record enrollment this academic year for the college.

"This is exciting news for the college and our community," Felix Gamez, LCC Dean of Admissions and Enrollment Management said. "As we all know, if we have an educated community, the community is going to benefit in general."

And affordable tuition and fees continue to make higher education accessible in tough economic conditions, added Gamez. Laredo's unemployment rate sits at 8.5 percent, encouraging many people who have lost their jobs to cut back on expenses and to seek a low-cost, quality education to enhance their skills or obtain training in another field.

Other factors that contributed to the upsurge in enrollment involved several changes in college departments that work directly with students.

Once a combined department, the Admissions and Registration Center was split into separate centers to provide better customer service to prospective and current students. The Admissions Center will manage student records, while the Registration Center will guide students with all registration processes.

"LCC recognizes that customer service is a number one priority and has taken active measures to provide that for students," Gamez added.

Advising and registration for summer session 2 and fall classes is ongoing. For a listing of courses being offered, visit the college website at www.laredo.edu. First class day for the second summer session is July 8, and fall classes begin August 23.

For more information about LCC courses or for registration, contact LCC's Registration Center at 721-5109 at the Fort McIntosh Campus or 794-4108 at the South Campus.

LISD announces new assignments

In preparation for the 2010-2011 school year, Laredo Independent School District Superintendent Marcus Nelson announced the following promotions and appointments during the LISD Board of Trustees meeting on Thursday evening.

Lonnie D. Cook was named LISD's chief of police. Cook comes from the City of Laguna Vista Police Department near South Padre Island. Cook's assignment is effective July 8.

Miguel Munoa was appointed chief technology officer. Munoa was the regional sales manager for AT&T and brings over 13 years of experience in the telecommunications industry.

Myrtala Ramirez was promoted to director of Elementary Education. She has been principal at Tarver Elementary School, a recognized campus by the Texas Education Agency, and Santo Niño Elementary School, which is expected to receive an exemplary rating this year.

Miguel Castillo will be the new principal at Bruni Elementary School. Castillo was previously the vice principal at Memorial Middle School. Castillo, who has been in education for 16 years, was previously a teacher at Ryan Elementary School and a vice principal at Alma Pierce Elementary School.

Eduardo "Wayo" Martinez will be the new principal at Farias Elementary School. Martinez comes from Cigarroa High School where he was assistant principal. Martinez has been a vice principal at Kawas, Milton, and Sanchez Ochoa Elementary Schools. Martinez is expecting to finish his doctoral degree in leadership studies from Our Lady of the Lake University in San Antonio.

"These individuals possess the experience, knowledge, and leadership skills necessary to effectively serve the staff and children of Laredo ISD," Nelson noted. "They have fostered the respect and admiration of their peers and have a strong desire to have a positive impact on students."

The new assignments for Ramirez, Castillo, and Martinez become effective immediately.

Nelson added that LISD would be advertising for the following positions in July: Principals for Ligarde Elementary School and Santo Nino Elementary School, and the executive director for Plant Facilities and Support Services, a post currently held by Israel Carrera, who is resigning to accept a position as superintendent of schools in Jal, New Mexico. Nelson is expected to make his recommendation for these positions at the July regular meeting of the LISD Board of Trustees.

LCC, Remo Inc. recognizes LISD percussion students

Caption: Laredo Community College and Remo Inc. presented a $500 certificate to J.W. Nixon High School's percussion section on Thursday at the high school campus. The entire bass line will receive new bass drumheads for the 2010-2011 marching band season. Representing the high school are, from left to right, Carlos Luna, band director; Ernesto Lopez and Kimberly Pena, percussion students; Lupita Cortez, principal; Ada Aguilar, percussion student; and Matthew Adams, LCC music instructor and camp coordinator. Remo Inc. awarded the grand prize to the school for having the most students attend LCC's fourth annual Summer Percussion Camp, which took place in early June. Students from LBJ, United South, JB Alexander, and Pearsall high schools also participated in this year's camp.

LCC students receive USDA scholarships

Caption: Three $1,000 scholarships were awarded to several Laredo Community College students on Tuesday at the Fort McIntosh Campus. The scholarships will be used this summer as students continue their education in the agriculture sciences and related fields. Pictured, from left to right, are Nora Garza, LCC project director for the grant; David Vela, J.W. Nixon High School graduate and LCC freshman; Mariela Aguilera, United High School graduate and LCC freshman; and Michael Saenz, an LCC sophomore. Students enrolled in the USDA program have an opportunity to take courses at Texas State University in San Marcos via teleconferencing. Also planned is a one-week Summer Academy at LCC's Lamar Bruni Vergara Environmental Science Center, and a free informational "eco-tour" to the TSU campus.

Tommy Ramirez named Nixon's head football coach

LISD Assistant Athletic Director Tommy Ramirez has been named head football coach/campus coordinator for athletics at J.W. Nixon High School. LISD Superintendent Marcus Nelson made the announcement Thursday afternoon.

Ramirez, a native of Zapata, had been serving as LISD's assistant athletic director since 2005. He was named Nixon's interim head football coach in mid-April. He was previously a coach at United South High School and defensive coordinator at Nixon. Ramirez was a member of the Zapata High School football, baseball, and track teams. He graduated from Southwest Texas State University in San Marcos in 1988 with a bachelor's degree in agricultural business, and a master's degree in educational administration from Texas A&M International University in 2008.

"I would like to thank Laredo ISD for entrusting me with this great responsibility," Ramirez said. "I would also like to thank my family for providing me with the support and encouragement to proceed with this endeavor."

"And I would like to assure Laredo ISD and the Nixon community that our teams, our staff, and myself will work tirelessly to continually improve the level of competition played at NHS," he added. "Our goal is to compete for district championships on a yearly basis."

A search will begin immediately for the assistant athletic director position left vacant by Ramirez. Nelson plans to make his recommendation during the July board meeting.

For more information, call the LISD Office of Communications at 795-3295.

TAMIU's Mitchell installed as president of Hawthorne Society

Tom Mitchell, Texas A&M International University dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, was installed as the president of the Nathaniel Hawthorne Society at its biennial conference in Concord, Mass., last week.

Mitchell, who also served as Conference planner, has been a member of the group's Advisory Board for six years and president-elect for the past two years. He is a nationally recognized scholar on Hawthorne and wrote "Hawthorne's Fuller Mystery" (Amherst: University of Massachusetts Press, 1998).

His fellow 2010-2012 officers include Rosemary Fisk (Stamford University), president-elect; Richard Kopley (Pennsylvania State University), secretary, and Leland S. Person (University of Cincinnati), treasurer.

Mitchell said the Society, founded in 1974, is dedicated to the study and appreciation of the life and works of the American author and provides forums for scholars to share responses to Hawthorne's achievements.

"The Society numbers almost 500 members from all around the world and publishes the 'Nathaniel Hawthorne Review' twice a year. Its conference is held every two years, and the group also sponsors sessions at annual meetings of the Modern Language Association and the American Literature Association. Our next conference, in 2012, is in Florence, Italy," Mitchell explained.

The Concord Conference was attended by some 85 participants from eight countries and offered some 21 sessions held over three days with 57 scholarly papers read. The Conference was held at The Colonial Inn, built in 1716, and once a boarding house run by Henry David Thoreau's mother.

Lawrence Buell, the Powell M. Cabot Professor of American Literature at Harvard University and former English department chair, was the featured speaker. He spoke on "The Accidental Master Text: The Scarlet Letter as the Great American Novel." Buford Jones of Duke University spoke on "The Scarlet Letter as the Great American Novel." Mitchell delivered a paper, "'The Birth-mark': Hawthorne's Abortion Fantasy."

Hawthorne's writing centers on New England and many works feature moral allegories with clear Puritan inspiration. Some works are typical of dark romanticism and include "The Scarlet Letter" (1850), "The House of the Seven Gables" (1851), "The Blithedale Romance" (1852) and "The Marble Faun" (1860).

Mitchell said the Conference site was especially appropriate.

"Concord, Massachusetts, was the home of Hawthorne, Ralph Waldo Emerson, Henry David Thoreau, Bronson Alcott, and Louisa May Alcott. All are buried on 'Author’s Ridge' in Sleepy Hollow Cemetery. These famed authors' homes still exist and are open to the public. Concord is also, of course, the town where the first shot was fired in what would become the American Revolution. Finally, the lake made famous by Thoreau as 'Walden Pond,' its official name, is on the outskirts of town and is a park site," Mitchell noted.

For more information, contact Mitchell at 326-2460, visit offices in the Lamar Bruni Vergara Science Center or e-mail tmitchell@tamiu.edu.

To learn more about Hawthorne, visit: http://www.artsci.uc.edu/english/hawthornesociety/aboutnh.html

Martin High developing positive role models

With school out for the summer, staying off the streets and keeping out of trouble is a challenging task for any student. Over at Martin High School, the coaching staff is assisting in that challenge by helping develop positive role models through the "Tiger Pride" Strength and Conditioning Workout Camp.

The Tiger Pride Camp is geared for the entire student body of Martin High, Christen Middle, and Memorial Middle Schools. The goal of the camp is to produce positive attitudes in young men and women while promoting a healthy lifestyle and specifically targeting the strength and conditioning of the student-athletes.

During the camp, a majority of the workouts are fitness or athletic oriented. The students are being put through a variety of physical activities including warm-ups, agility and speed, upper body, and fitness testing. The strength and conditioning sessions offer bench press, barbell curls, squats, and lunge workouts for the student-athlete.

"The voluntary workouts have been great. I’m getting stronger and in better shape for next season," said Bo Thorpe, Martin High School Junior. "The workouts have helped me become disciplined on and off the field. I now have a competitive attitude to positively contribute to my team, my community, and to become a positive role model for other students."

"Our students are developing a mental toughness through their participation in the Strength and Conditioning Workouts," said Jesus Tobias, Martin High School freshman coach. "They can take that mental toughness back to the classroom and focus on their academic studies all while becoming productive members of the community."

According to Tobias, Coach Don Davis and the entire staff are instilling a sense of "Tiger Pride" and "Restoring the Roar" at Martin High. "We want our students to face their obstacles and challenges head-on while always striving to be positive role models," added Tobias.

Workouts are held at the East Martin practice field from 6 p.m.-8 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays and will continue through July 29. The weight room is open for use Mondays–Thursdays mornings from 8 a.m.-10:30 a.m. for those students unable to attend the evening sessions. The strength and conditioning workouts are offered free of charge.

For more information, contact the Office of Communication at 795-3295.

LISD launches Health and Wellness Summer Camp

Caption: Jesus Lozano, Farias Elementary School third-grader participates in a non-elimination game during the Health and Wellness Camp at Farias Elementary.

As summertime hits Laredo, most schoolchildren are sleeping in, but not Alexis Carrillo, a third- grade student at Farias Elementary School. She starts her mornings with 30 minutes of intense power walking and jogging exercises followed by 30 minutes of vigorous non-elimination games. Just about every morning, you can see Alexis and her 25 classmates pumping their arms and kicking their legs to a healthier lifestyle.

As part of the new health and wellness initiatives, the Laredo Independent School District has started the Health and Wellness Summer Camp incorporating the Coordinated Approach to Child Health (CATCH) Kids Club nutrition manual and activity box.

The CATCH Kid's Club is a curriculum specifically designed for summer enrichment programs that teach children the nutrition knowledge, skills, and self-reliance that empowers them to make healthy dietary and physical activity choices. The Kids Club is composed of nutrition education materials (including snack activities) and a physical activity component.

"The purpose of this camp is to provide students with an opportunity outside of the 'regular school year' to participate in moderate to vigorous physical activity and nutrition education," stated Cordy Rodriguez, LISD Coordinate School Health Specialist for Curriculum and Instruction. "With the overweight/obese rate at LISD being approximately 41.9 percent, we feel it is vital to encourage families and communities in promoting the well-being of young people."

During the 15 day camp, over 400 students at all LISD elementary campuses will utilize the CATCH Kids Club nutrition manual and activity box. The children participate in nutrition sessions that include children stories, rhymes, games, songs, and healthy snack recipes. Nutritional facts and food label information are also part of the nutritional sessions. The kids also learn about nutrition and healthy lifestyles through fun vigorous non-elimination games.

"I chose to come to camp and I love it," said Carrillo. "We get to exercise and learn about foods that are healthy and those that are not healthy for you. I have more energy and have even lost a little bit of weight."

According to Rodriguez the program is geared toward second grade students who will be entering the third grade, typically about eight years of age. The district decided on this group of students because an increase in weight gain was identified between the first and third grade years of schooling. Because weight gain is evident in these very important young years, targeting this age group with additional physical and nutrition education would be beneficial in assisting them to make healthier lifestyle choices.

At the majority of the campuses, the program is run by the district's physical education staff. Since they are already familiar with the CATCH curriculum and because physical education is their expertise, physical educators were selected for this specific camp since it is a first time initiative.

"I think the camp is great," said Adriana Dovalina, Farias Elementary Physical Education instructor. "We may not see it in the numbers, but I know the kids have worked out like they have never worked out before. We want our students to learn the importance of healthy living, enable them to make healthy choices, and motivate them so that they may help themselves and others establish healthy behaviors designed to last their lifetime."

For more information, contact the Office of Communication at 795-3295.

LISD Board to discuss non-traditional high school

The LISD Board of Trustees will meet on Tuesday, June 15, to discuss a proposed non-traditional high school. The workshop is scheduled for 6 p.m., in the LISD Board Room, at 1620 Houston St.

LISD Superintendent Marcus Nelson describes the non-traditional high school as a campus for students "who want to get back on their feet and make something out of their lives."

"The non-traditional setting is designed for students who dropped out of high school, regret that decision, and now want to seek and ultimately attain their high school diploma," Nelson said. "We see this as a significant advantage for our former students, the Laredo community, and the local economy.

"By implementing this program, LISD is sending the message: We take care of our kids," said Carlos Rios, LISD's executive director of academic accountability and Compliance. "We consider this to be a very important service for our students who need a second chance."

LISD is planning to open the campus at the beginning of the 2010-2011 school year. Funding for the proposed campus has been secured through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA). Several LISD board members have visited a similar successful program in McKinney, while LISD board members toured several sites in San Antonio, Del Rio and McKinney.

For more information, please call the LISD Office of Communications at 795-3295.

UISD announces principal at Cuellar Elementary

The United Independent School District Board of Trustees and Superintendent Roberto J. Santos are pleased to announce Melissa Shinn as the principal at Dr. Henry Cuellar Elementary School. Shinn, a longtime educator, is currently an assistant principal at Trautmann Middle School.

Shinn began her career as a classroom teacher at Kawas Elementary School with the Laredo Independent School District. She later moved to Ryan Elementary School where she served as a reading trainer and moved to the position of assistant principal while working at the campus. Shinn also served as an assistant principal at Daiches Elementary School before moving to UISD in 2007.

Shinn has her bachelor's degree in business from the University of North Texas in Denton. She also holds a master's degree in educational administration from Texas A&M International University. As the new principal, Shinn will oversee an enrollment of about 700 students. Shinn said she looks forward to her new position and working with the students, faculty, staff and parents. Her belief is that every child has the ability to learn.

"I believe that a child can achieve beyond their goals by providing a positive environment and working together," she stated. "I look forward to continuing the educational excellence in which the faculty and staff at Dr. Henry Cuellar Elementary School has provided to our children. I am eager to start and work towards reaching our next goal."

Shinn, the daughter of former Laredo public school educators Cesar and Sara Salinas, is married to David Shinn. They have three children: Amanda, 14, Meagan, 11, and Richard, 5.

Dr. Henry Cuellar Elementary School is located at 6431 Casa Del Sol Boulevard in east Laredo, off of U.S. 59. Shinn will be joined by current assistant principal Erika Ruiz Elizondo. The school's mascot is the mighty colt and the school colors are burgundy, navy blue, and silver.

LCC seeks cast members for 'Sweeney Todd'

Following on the success of Disney's High School Musical On Stage! last spring, Laredo Community College's Opera Workshop has chosen "Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber on Fleet Street" as their next ambitious musical selection for the fall semester.

The LCC Opera Workshop is holding auditions for the upcoming production, which is slated for late October.

"Come prepared to sing anything which shows off your voice," said Joseph Crabtree, LCC Performing Arts Department chair. "This audition is open to anyone interested in any part of this production, including actors, dancers, technical crew and stage hands."

Auditions will be held at the Guadalupe and Lilia Martinez Fine Arts Center, room 102 at LCC's Fort McIntosh Campus on Tuesday, June 15, through Thursday, June 17, from 7 through 9 p.m.

High school juniors, seniors, and community members are encouraged to attend.

Those who do not wish to perform but are interested in technical theater working backstage and building sets, are encouraged to stop by and reserve a space.

The tale of Sweeney Todd is a dark comedy.

Benjamin Barker, a.k.a. Sweeney Todd, returns to London after 15 years of false imprisonment. Barker's former landlady, Mrs. Lovett, tells Barker that his wife poisoned herself after being raped by the judge who wrongfully sentenced him. Barker vows revenge.

"While there was a recent movie starring Johnny Depp in the movie of the same name, the stage version has many more characters," Crabtree said. "The stage version also has an active chorus of Londoners which offers sung solo lines."

"It is not a story with a happy ending, but it is a perfect tale of the macabre just right for the Halloween weekend performance." Crabtree added.

For more information on the Sweeney Todd musical auditions, contact the LCC Performing Arts Department at 721-5330 or email Joseph Crabtree at jcrabtree@laredo.edu.

UISD approves appointment of administrators

United Independent School District trustees and Superintendent Roberto J. Santos are pleased to announce the following appointments of three individuals who will serve pivotal roles for the district in their respective positions. They are Raul Ramirez Jr. the new director of the Food Services Department, Raul Nuno, principal at Salvador Garcia Middle School and Gilbert Castro, principal at Prada Elementary School.

Ramirez Jr. is the new UISD Food Services director succeeding Adalberto Ramirez, who is retiring after 21 years of service with the district. Ramirez earned his Bachelor of Business Administration from Laredo State University in 1986, and began his career as an assistant general ledger coordinator for Laredo Independent School District. Ramirez was then hired by UISD in 1998 as a Food Services accounting manager, and has served in that capacity to the present day. Ramirez is a member of the Texas Association of School Business Officials, and has participated in many professional development programs that focus on school nutritional awareness, purchasing, accounting and the management of department personnel and finances.

Nuno is the new principal at Salvador Garcia Middle School. Nuno is a graduate of Texas A&M International University, and holds a Bachelor of Science in interdisciplinary studies and Master of Science in Educational Administration. Nuno's appointment as the new principal at Salvador Garcia Middle marks his return to the fold since starting his career at the school in 1990 as an instructional aide for special education. Nuno also served as vice principal and summer school principal at Lyndon B. Johnson High School from 2002 to 2009. More recently, Nuno served as the career academies dean at Dr. Leo Cigarroa High School. Nuno will continue his studies in the Superintendent Program at TAMIU where he plans to enroll in the Special Education Doctoral Program.

Castro is a graduate of TAMIU, with a Bachelor of Arts in English and a Masters of Science degree in educational administration. Castro has 22 years of experience in the field of education. His professional journey has provided him with the opportunity to serve as a teacher in Laredo and San Antonio public schools. He has served as summer school principal and his most recent assignment in UISD was as an assistant principal at Kennedy-Zapata Elementary School. Castro is a member of the Texas Elementary Principals and Supervisors Association and has participated in many professional development programs throughout his career.

LCC names new administrator to lead center

Miguel Berry hopes to improve the first stop to a student's brighter future as the new coordinator for Laredo Community College's Assessment Center.

Earlier this month, LCC officials named Berry to oversee the center, which administers 11 placement and career exams, including the GED, CLEP, and TCLEOSE.

A native Laredoan, Berry will lead a team of four employees at the Fort McIntosh and South campuses.

"As an administrator, I am honored and look forward to leading this center because we administer some of the most important exams to members of Laredo and surrounding communities," Berry said.

For nearly five years, Berry was the college's Director of Grants and Foundation unit.
Before joining LCC, Berry was a research assistant with the UT Health Science Center in San Antonio and has worked on local projects with the City of Laredo Health Department.

"Research and assessment go hand in hand," Berry said. "My focus has always been in trying to find solutions and help those individuals. As the new center coordinator, this will be a great opportunity to help others seek a better future."

The LCC Assessment Center is comprised of two centers, the main one, located at the Fort McIntosh campus, and a satellite center, located at the South Campus.

Both sites have been approved by the American Council on Education (ACE) as official GED testing sites.

"We basically service all of Webb County and the surrounding areas because we are the only official GED testing center in the region," Berry said. Three other 'addendum,' or approved sites, also service Webb County.

Other tests administered by the LCC Assessment Center include THEA, ACT, CLEP, and TCLEOSE exams.

For testing information, contact the LCC Fort McIntosh Assessment Center at 721-5418.

Laredoans earn degrees from UTMB

Sandra Herrera and Monica L. Guzman-Limon were awarded medical degrees on June 5 at the 120th commencement of the School of Medicine at the University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston.

Dr. Herrera is a 2002 graduate of J.B. Alexander Magnet High School in Laredo, and a 2006 graduate of Texas A&M International University.

Dr. Guzman-Limon, daughter of Enedelia and Juan Guzman Jr. is a 2002 graduate of United High School in Laredo, and a 2006 graduate of Texas A&M International University. She is a recipient of the George and Mary Josephine Hamman scholarship.

Dr. Garland D. Anderson, executive vice president and provost and dean of the School of Medicine, presided over the 2010 commencement ceremony, and U.S. Surgeon General Regina M. Benjamin addressed the graduates.

Students win Knowledge for College championship

Caption: The winners of the Championship Game were students from Col. Santos Benavides Elementary, who each took home a $1,000 scholarship. The runners-up were from Prada Elementary, who each won a $500 scholarship. On hand to make the presentation was Javier Santos from the Fernando A. Salinas Charitable Trust Fund andRicardo Moreno, director of financial aid for Laredo Community College. Pictured sitting in front row, left to right, are Prada Elementary students Ricardo Molina and David Blanquez. From Col. Santos Benavides Elementary are students Jacob Abdallah and Greta Villarreal.

Four United ISD fifth-grade students recently received scholarships from the Fernando A. Salinas Charitable Trust Fund after competing as finalists in UISD's Knowledge for College Academic Game Show.

Throughout the school year, fifth-grade students from UISD's 27 elementary campuses competed against each other in an effort to win scholarship money. The game show requires students to spin the Wheel of Knowledge and answer TAKS type questions in the categories of Math, Science, Social Studies and Language Arts. Through a process of elimination, the final two schools faced-off for the championship game.

Jacob Abdallah and Greta Villarreal who represent Col. Santos Benavides Elementary school won first place in the championship game. Through the generosity of the Salinas Trust Fund, Abdallah and Villarreal were each presented with a $1,000 scholarship to Laredo Community College.

Prada Elementary was the runner-up school, and students David Blanquez and Ricardo Molina each received $500 from the Salinas Trust Fund. All four students plan to go to college and said they would put the money to good use.

On hand to present the scholarships to the four students were Javier Santos from the Fernando A. Salinas Charitable Trust Fund and Ricardo Moreno, director of financial aid for Laredo Community College.

Santos said, "We were very honored to be asked to participate in this program. It promotes education, it promotes our students and it motivates them."

Moreno went on to say, "We always look forward to providing students with an opportunity to attend college."

Knowledge for College is produced by United ISD's Instructional Television Department. The academic game show recently won a Gold Star Award in the Texas School Public Relations Association contest.

UISD Instructional Television Director Susan Carlson says, "UISD and the ITV Department are proud of our collaboration with the Salinas Trust Fund. And we would like to thank Mr. Javier Santos for his generosity and support of the students of United ISD."

The Knowledge for College Academic Game Show will resume next school year, with middle school and high school students competing for scholarship money.

Knowledge for College airs regularly, and can be seen on several local channels including KVTV, KGNS, CW, FOX and Public Access (PAC).

LISD announces free Summer Food Service Program

Once again this summer, the Laredo Independent School District will sponsor the free Summer Food Service Program. LISD Summer Food Service Program in conjunction with city and community agencies will provide free meal service to all children 18 and younger starting June 2, through Aug. 13.

The LISD Child Nutrition Program will be serving free meals including breakfast, lunch, snacks, and supper at 61 meal sites including 28 LISD campuses, city recreation centers, libraries, housing centers, churches, and other community sites throughout the city.

All LISD campuses are open feeding sites for youngsters from the surrounding neighborhood. Meals at the campuses will be provided Monday through Thursday. Kitchens will be open on Fridays at Martin, Nixon, and Cigarroa High Schools in order to provide meals to the community sites. Meals at the community sites will be provided Monday through Friday. To participate, just show up. You don't need to register or get a meal ticket and no identification is required.

The Summer Nutrition Program is offered statewide by local sponsors who operate sites where children up to 18 years-old can get meals at no charge. The service is open to all children, regardless of income. People who are over age 18 and enrolled in school programs for people with disabilities also can receive meals at no charge. The sites are located in areas where more than 50 percent of the children are eligible for free or reduced-price meals under the National School Lunch Program.

More than 2,000 summer food meal sites across Texas are expected to be in operation. Many of the sites will offer recreational activities for children as well as meals at no charge.

According to Margaret Lopez, LISD Child Nutrition Director, last summer the Child Nutrition Department served 72,622 breakfasts, 166,190 lunches, 39,455 afternoon snacks, and 949 suppers for a grand total of 279,164 meals.

Meal sites are subject to change. For the most up-to-date information on Summer Food Program meal sites and hours of operation call 2-1-1 or visit the LISD website at www.lisd.org. For more details on the Summer Food Program visit www.summerfood.org.

UISD, USDA to offer free meals to all children of the community

The 2009-2010 school year may be over, but the United Independent School District knows the importance of good health and nutrition for all students of the community-especially over the summer months. That's why the district is, once again, proud to be a partner of the U.S. Department of Agriculture's 2010 Summer Food Service Program.

Open to all children, ages 18 or younger, the program will provide free breakfast and/or lunch that will be served at over 25 UISD campuses and various community sites. The district wants to encourage all children to participate in this program as this beneficial service kicked off Monday, May 31, and will run throughout the summer.

"UISD has always supported this program for our students and the community because we want our children to continue to receive the proper nutrition they need over summer vacation," said UISD Superintendent Roberto J. Santos, who further explained that a poor diet over the summer can possibly set up children for poor performance in the classroom once school begins again in August. "A lack of nutrition can also make our children more prone to illness and other health issues."

The district wants to remind families' that summer program meals are free of charge to all children, regardless of their child's school meal eligibility during the regular school year. Additionally, no registration is required for those who attend. Lastly, a child does not have to attend a UISD school to benefit from this program, as this project is designed to fill the nutrition gap and make sure all children can get the nutritious meals they need.

The 2010 Summer Food Service Program sites, including contact information and the times each site will be serving breakfast and lunch, will be as follows:

STEP Academy*: 473-6500, breakfast at 7:30-8:30 a.m., lunch at 11:30-12:30 p.m., open 6/07-7/15

5201 Bob Bullock Loop, 78041

United South HS*: 473-5400, breakfast at 8-9 a.m., lunch at 12-1:30 p.m., open 6/07-7/15

4001 Ave Los Presidentes, 78046

United High School*: 473-5600, breakfast at 8-9 a.m., lunch at 12-1:30 p.m., open 6/07-7/15

2811 United Ave., 78045

Bruni Vergara Middle*: 473-6600, breakfast at 7:30-8:30 a.m., lunch at 11:30-1 p.m., open 5/31-7/01

5910 St. Luke Blvd, 78046

Salvador Garcia Middle**: 473-5000, breakfast at 8:15-8:45 a.m., lunch at 11:30-12:30 p.m., open 5/31-8/13

499 Pena Dr., 78046

Washington Middle****: 473-7600, breakfast at 7:30-8:30 a.m., lunch at 1:30-12:30 p.m., open 5/31-7/30

10306 River Bank Dr., 78045

United South Middle**: 473-7700, breakfast at 7:30-8:30 a.m., lunch at 12-1 p.m., open 5/31-8/13

3707 Ave. Los Presidentes, 78046

Kennedy/Zapata Elementary*: 473-4100, breakfast at 7:45-8:15 a.m., lunch at 11-1 p.m.,

5/31-7/01

3809 S Espejo-Molina Rd, 78046

Kazen Elementary**: 473-4200, breakfast at 7:45-8:15 a.m., lunch at 11-1 p.m., open 5/31-8/13

9620 Albany Dr., 78043

Zaffirini Elementary*: 473-2900, breakfast at 7:30-8:30 a.m., lunch at 11-1 p.m., open 5/31-7/01

5210 Sta. Claudia Lane, 78043

Perez Elementary*: 473-3600, breakfast at 8-8:45 a.m., lunch at 11:15-1:15 p.m., open 5/31-7/01

500 Sierra Vista Dr., 78046

Killam Elementary*: 473-2600, breakfast at 7:45-8:15 a.m., lunch at 11-1 p.m., open 5/31-7/01

5315 Fairfield Drive, 78043

Gutierrez Elementary**: 473-4400, breakfast at 7:45-8:15 a.m., lunch at 11-12:30 p.m., open 5/31-7/30

505 Calle Del Norte, 78046

Malakoff Elementary*: 473-4700, breakfast at 7:45-8:15 a.m., lunch at 11-12:45 p.m., open 5/31-7/01

2810 Havana Drive, 78045

Nye Elementary*: 473-3300, breakfast at 7:45-8:30 a.m., lunch at 11-1 p.m., open 5/31-7/01

900 E Del Mar Blvd., 78041

Muller Elementary*: 473-3900, breakfast at 7:30-8:30 a.m., lunch at 11-1 p.m., open 5/31-7/01

4430 Muller Memorial Blvd., 78045

Prada Elementary**: 473-3500, breakfast at 7:45-8:30 a.m., lunch at 11-1 p.m., open 5/31-8/13

510 Soria Dr., 78046

Salinas Elementary*: 473-3200, breakfast at 7:45-8:30 a.m., lunch at 11-1 p.m., open 5/31-7/01

1000 Century Drive, 78046

Roosevelt Elementary**: 473-3400, breakfast at 7:45-8:30 a.m., lunch at 11-1 p.m., open 5/31-8/13

3301 Sierra Vista Rd., 78045

DeLlano Elementary****: 473-4000, breakfast at 7:30-8:30 a.m., lunch at 11:30-12:30 p.m., open 5/31-7/30

1415 Shiloh Dr., 78045

United Middle School: 473-7300, call school for schedule

700 E. Del Mar Blvd.

Rio Bravo Community Center**: 728-9898, breakfast at 9-10 a.m., lunch at 1-2 p.m., open 5/31-8/13

1600 Orquidia, 78046

Fred Bruni Community Center ***: 417-3330, lunch at 12-1 p.m., open 5/31-8/13

452 West Rancho Penitas Road, 78045

El Cenizo Community Center**: 718-8531, breakfast at 9-10 a.m., lunch at 12-1 p.m., open 5/31-8/13

3519 Cecilia Lane, 78046

Northeast Hillside Center****: 795-3045, breakfast at 7:30-8:30 a.m., lunch at 11:30-1 p.m., open 6/07-7/30

320 Wyoming, 78041

El Eden****: 794-1760, breakfast at 8-9 a.m., lunch at 12-1 p.m., open 6/07-7/30

4735 Loma Vista, 78046

Children's Advocacy Center****: 712-1840, lunch at 12-1 p.m., open 6/07-6/18

111 North Merida, 78043

Rosemont at Laredo Vista* 717-2991, lunch at 12-1 p.m., open 5/31-7/01

5606 St. David Lane, 78046

* These schools will open from Monday through Thursday only.

** These sites will open from Monday through Friday.

*** This site will not serve breakfast.

**** This site will be closed July 5, 2010

Please note that program sites are subject to change to due the amount of children participating in the program.

For more information on the 2010 Summer Food Service Program, please call the UISD Food Service Department at (956) 473-6556.