Enrique Ramirez honored as 'Youth of The Month' by Border Patrol and local sponsors

Caption: Pictured, from left to right, are Enrique Benavides, his mother Marta L. Ramirez, and Roberto J. Santos, UISD Superintendent

Enrique Ramirez, a senior at Lyndon B. Johnson High School, has been named October's "Youth of The Month."

Ramirez describes himself as ambitious and driven to succeed in everything he does. His exemplary grades are evidence of his dedication to his education, and his hours of service to our community through various clubs and organizations demonstrates that he is committed to serving others. Ramirez is currently ranked first in his class with a grade point average of 101.2.

Nominating educator Brenda Cognata said she is amazed by Ramirez's passion to succeed in every aspect of his life.

"Enrique is an example of a hard worker who is determined to achieve his goals. He has also managed to maintain an outstanding academic record while contributing much of his spare time to his community. He always has an uplifting attitude towards life."

Ramirez plans to attend Harvard University to pursue a bachelor's degree in science and a medical degree in the field of otorhinolaryngology.

Youth of The Month is sponsored in part by the US Border Patrol, H-E-B, A&E Office Products, Best Buy, KGNS-TV, Rock Fitness Center, IBC, Royal Laser Wash, McDonald's, and the Public Access Channel.

National journal nominates Centeno librarian for award

Analine Johnson, librarian for Centeno Elementary School, was recognized by the School Library Journal (SLJ), during their first ever Book Trailee Awards. The journal is the largest reviewer of books, multimedia, and technology for children and teens. Most recently, the SLJ reviewed book trailers that motivate students to read and those who create them. Four out of twenty-four nominated videos were Johnson's. Two were nominated in the "adult created for elementary category" ("14 Cows for America" by Carmen Agra Deedy and "Home of the Brave" by Katherine Applegate), and two were nominated for the "adult created for the secondary category" ("All the Lovely Bad Ones" by Mary Downing Hahn, and "The Darkness Under the Water" by Beth Kannell). The SLJ recognitions are a first for a UISD Librarian.

Sandra Benavides, director of Professional and Staff Development, Library Science, and Special Projects said, "We are all so proud of Johnson's dedicated efforts to continually promote reading."

LCC and TG announce statewide financial aid call center

Caption: Wednesday, Oct. 27, Laredo Community College, Generation TX, and TG launched a statewide multimedia public service announcement at LCC's Fort McIntosh Campus' Kazen College Center to promote the Texas Financial Aid Information Center. The bilingual toll-free call center helps parents and students with Texas college admissions process and assists them to understand and apply for federal and state financial aid. Pictured, during the Laredo campaign promotion, are Judith Zaffirini, state senator and chair of the Texas Senate Higher Education Committee, and Juan Maldonado, LCC president. Local television, print, radio, and web media will begin the public service announcements by the end of October.

UHS graduate organizes fundraiser

Friday, Oct. 8, former United High School student Teresa N. Jarrell spearheaded a mini-fundraiser to benefit breast cancer survivors. Jarrell began by purchasing a spool of pink ribbon to make decorative bows. She then asked UHS band members to donate whatever they could. In turn, they would receive a bow that they could wear on their uniform during the UHS/Nixon football game. A total of $267.03 was raised, and all proceeds will be donated to Mercy Ministries. Jarrell is a mentor and band tech with the United High School Longhorn Band (percussion section). She is also a former band member and graduate of UHS.

Alexander High School Bulldog band advances to finals in San Antonio

Caption: AHS Bulldog Band Assistant Band Director Christopher Lumsford pays off a bet by getting his haircut. Student Arturo Cabello does the honors in front of AHS Bulldog Band members.

The Mighty Alexander High School Bulldog Band lived up to its moniker when it emerged with a top ten win during the UIL 5-A marching contest held this past weekend in McAllen, Texas.

The band competed against 37 other high school bands from throughout the state. It was during the competition that AHS Assistant Band Director Christopher Lumsford promised to have his hair sheared should they win and advance to marching band area finals. Lumsford paid his"bet debt" when the band accomplished the proposed goal.

The band will compete in UIL area finals on Nov. 2 at the Alamodome in San Antonio. Performance time will be at 8 a.m. AHS band Director Jose Valenzuela said he is very proud of his students because they have worked hard.

Valenzuela added that he has always taught them that "anything is possible when focus and dedication are applied to the task at hand."

He added, "It's been 11 years since any local high school band advanced to the area finals. This is the first time that an AHS band has advanced to compete in such a prestigious competition. We will be competing against 35 other bands from around the state. It will be a great challenge for all of us, and I know our students will make us proud."

Cuellar Elementary Red Ribbon presentation delights students

Caption: Cuellar Elementary School welcomed Sheriff Martin Cuellar and staff to their Red Ribbon celebration. Cuellar brought San Antonio ventriloquist Nacho Estrada along to help officers spread the word about staying away from drugs and gangs. Estrada used his puppets and voice throwing skills to stress the importance of showing respect for others, manners, going to school and staying out of trouble.

Pictured, from left to right, are Jesse Gonzalez, Webb County deputy; Martin Cuellar, Webb County Sheriff; Nacho Estrada, professional ventriloquist; Lt. Rudy Valdez, Webb County Sheriff's Office.