Janurary 20, 2017 - Fiesta Souvenir Edition 2017 by Progress Times

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Mission, Texas

Texas Citrus Fiesta

January 14 - 28, 2017

Bryceidee Leos Queen Citrianna LXXX

Official Publication of Texas Citrus Fiesta 2017 Souvenir Edition

Photo Courtesy: Rio Portrait & Design Studio

“Cheers To 80 Years”

Fiesta Souvenir Edition 2017

President’s Message Welcome to the 80th Texas Citrus Fiesta celebrating this year’s bountiful harvest of the world’s best citrus. A combination of our moderate climate and the Rio Grande Valley’s fertile soil produces the sweetest and best tasting grapefruit and oranges compared to anywhere else in the world. The Texas Citrus Fiesta Board of Directors and volunteers contribute many long hours each year organizing and planning the many Fiesta events. Our successful Fiesta would not be possible without the support of Mission Mayor, Norberto Salinas, the Mission City Council, all our sponsors, and numerous volunteers. It is with sincere gratitude that we say a big thank you for making this historic event possible. This year, the Texas Citrus Fiesta and the City of Mission are honored to celebrate our 80th anniversary of producing this one of a kind series of events to pay homage to the influence the citrus industry has had on the City of Mission and the Rio Grande Valley. Come help us celebrate “Cheers to 80 Years” of the Texas Citrus Fiesta. Join us at the unique Product Costume Show that will pay tribute to costumes of the past eighty years. This is a one of a kind event that allows designers to express their creativity as costumes are designed and then covered entirely with native Valley products. Come witness a regal event as King Citrus, Queen Citrianna, and Princess Anna are crowned, and beautiful young ladies in their duchess regalia are presented to compete for the title of next year’s Royal Court. And last, but not least, our party in the street, The Parade of Oranges.

Bill Filut

Come and join the party celebration of the 80th Texas Citrus Fiesta where food, fun, crafts, music, carnival rides, and entertainment, along with all the traditional Fiesta events will make everyone say, “Cheers to 80 MORE Years.”

President

Bill Filut President of the Texas Citrus Fiesta

2017 TEXAS CITRUS FIESTA BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Oscar Martinez 1st Vice President

Rick Saldaña

2nd Vice President

Bibi Peña Director

Minnie Rodgers Director

Nancy Chapa Director

Brian Gerlach Director

Scott Gerlach Director

Not Pictured

Keith Gerlach Director

Janie Sanchez Director

Lisa Rivera Director

Sylvia Vick Director

Carlos Garcia Director

Tommy Garcia Director

Nora Hinojosa Director

Join the 80th Annual Celebration as the Texas Citrus Fiesta Celebrates “Cheers to 80 Years”

Fiesta Souvenir Edition 2017

2017 Royal Court Julissa Alvarez Princess of Grapefruit Blossom

Karla Cantu Princess of Orange Blossom

SaraMaria Olivarez Lady in Waiting

Breana Gabby Garza Princess Anna LXVII

Bryceidee Leos Queen Citrianna LXXX

Lezley Uhrbrock Princess of Tangerine Blossom

Caitlyn Cerda Princess of Red Grapefruit Blossom

Photos by Rio Portrait & Design Studio

Victoria Gonzalez Princess of Lemon Blossom

Natalia Botello Princess of Lime Blossom

Fiesta Souvenir Edition 2017

80 Texas Citrus Fiesta th

Duchesses

Alma NiĂąo Duchess of International Goodwill

Brenda PeĂąa Duchess of Bluebonnet

Brittany Landavazo Duchess of Butterfly

Natalie Glasper Duchess of Delta Waters

Brianna Hernandez Duchess of Festivals

Christyn Cavazos Duchess of Honeydew

Madeline Madden Duchess of Marsh White

Amanda Galvan Duchess of Lantana

Olivia Vela Duchess of Live Oak

Sydney Ramirez Duchess of Mandarin Orange

Photos by Rio Portrait & Design Studio

Fiesta Souvenir Edition 2017

80 Texas Citrus Fiesta th

Duchesses

Jewel Ybarra Duchess of Pink Grapefruit

Bianca Medina Duchess of Oleander

Cecilia Tovias Duchess of Orange

Kennedy Castillo Duchess of Palms

Zayde Hernandez Duchess of Royal Palms

Alissa Aguilar Duchess of Poinsettia Karla Guzman Duchess of Retama

Gabriela Flores Duchess of Ruby Red

Linsey Garza Duchess of Star Ruby

Sarah Forthuber Duchess of Rio Red

Mariela Gonzalez Duchess of White Wing

Photos by Rio Portrait & Design Studio

Anjelica Garcia Duchess of Wildflowers

Fiesta Souvenir Edition 2017

Texas Citrus Fiesta began in 1932

By Kathy Olivarez The first citrus grove planted in the Rio Grande Valley dates back to 1871. According to the story, one of the circuit-riding priests who visited the Laguna Seca Ranch north of Edinburg, owned by Macedonio Vela and his wife, gave their children some sweet tasting fruit they had never had before. One daughter, Carlota enjoyed the fruit so much she saved the seeds and planted them in 1871, hoping to get some trees so she could eventually have more of this delicious fruit. By 1892 the first citrus grove was growing in the Rio Grande Valley. But there was no citrus industry created in the Valley until the arrival of John H. Shary in 1914. Shary who developed much of Mission and the surrounding area took risks and was ridiculed by some as he became determined to develop his vision of a thriving citrus and agricultural industry in the Rio Grande Valley. The first carloads of citrus fruits were

shipped out of the Valley in 1920 by rail. By 1923 Shary had organized a chain of citrus growers, packing and shipping plants. But there was a need to draw attention to the high quality of citrus fruit being grown in the Rio Grande Valley. The result was the Texas Citrus Fiesta that started in 1932 with the purpose of drawing attention to this new industry developing in the Rio Grande Valley. The goal of the Texas Citrus Fiesta was to promote national markets and sales for the citrus being grown in and around Mission. On Dec. 9, 1932 the first Texas Citrus Fiesta was held. Shary planned several exciting events including the coronation of King Grapefruit, W.D. Toland, and Queen Citrianna, Marguerite Daniels. There were seven duchesses from other cities across the Rio Grande Valley, two train bearers, a crown bearer, a jester and an emcee for the coronation. They had a band concert, where the high school band played “March of the Harvest,” and a parade with 27 floats. An

aerial circus was held at flying field west of Mission. Other events included a style show, fruit expositions and boxing contests. Businesses had displays of citrus fruit in their windows. There was even a football game. And of course, there was a queen’s ball where tickets cost $1.65 per couple. The ball was held at the Sproul Fruit Packing Shed, which was the only building large enough to hold the crowed expected to attend. Fox Film Corporation came down to film the show, and clips of the Texas Citrus Fiesta were shown in movie theaters across the nation. The fledgling festival suffered a setback in 1933 when a devastating hurricane destroyed many of the crops in the Valley. But the Fiesta returned in 1934. It was expanded to two days and the Golden Grapefruit Golf Tournament was added to the fun. The Style Show continued and a rodeo was added to the list of Fiesta events.

John Shary and Emogene Baker (wife of Hidalgo Co. Sheriff A. Y. Baker) are costumed as King and Queen Citrus during a party at the Shary home in December, 1930. This event inspired the first Texas Citrus Fiesta, two years later.

When Joske’s of San Antonio allowed the Style Show costumes to be placed in their display windows for a couple of weeks, invitations to do the same came from Corpus Christi, Houston and New York City. The Texas Citrus Fiesta was making a name for itself across the state and nation as it proclaimed Texas had the best citrus fruit to be found anywhere. In 1936 a children’s parade became a part of the fiesta. Children walked, rode bicycles and pulled carts decorated with citrus through the streets of Mission. In 1937 there was no Fiesta as it was decided to move the date for the fiesta to January of 1938 to avoid conflict with Christmas. The fiesta has been held in January since that time. During the years of World War II, the festival was cancelled. But it was revived in 1947 and grew to a four-day festival with two parades. One was especially for children and their pets; the other had larger floats and bands. There were antique shows and hobby shows as well. see TCF 1932 pg. 30

Fiesta Souvenir Edition 2017

Parade of Oranges is highlight of Texas Citrus Fiesta

Tens of thousands of people line the street each year as the highly popular Texas Citrus Fiesta is the Parade of Oranges proceeds down Conway Avenue at the conclusion of the two-week celebration of citrus. This yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Parade of Oranges takes place Saturday, Jan. 28 at 3 p.m. Lineup

for the parade begins at 11 a.m. between FM 495 (Griffin Parkway) and Mile 2 North Road. Judging will begin at 1 p.m. The parade will travel down Conway Avenue, starting at FM 495 and making its way south to 4th Street. Because the Parade of Oranges with see PARADE OF ORANGES pg. 9

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Fiesta Souvenir Edition 2017

PARADE OF ORANGES

From pg. 08 its citrus floats is always one of the most popular parades in the Rio Grande Valley, people will start seeking places to view the parade along the parade route starts early. Vendors will be selling food and drinks from 12 p.m. up and down the parade route. Cotton candy and other treats will be available. Look for the famous Texas Citrus Fiesta top sirloin barbecue sandwiches, a fiesta tradition that was started by the late Don Lester many years ago. Look for the pickup trucks pulling barbecue trailers where they will be selling the sandwiches and sodas along the parade route before the parade begins. Clowns will walk the parade route, many of them selling necklaces, balloons and toys that the children enjoy. For those who do not want to take lawn chairs, there will be chairs and bleachers for rent for $5 in various locations. While the bleachers near the bank in the downtown area are reserved for visiting dignitaries, the youth group at Conway Avenue Baptist Church will be renting chairs at the beginning of the parade route on the corner of FM 495 and Conway. First come, first serve. The Boy Scouts will have chairs in the downtown area for rent. The Grand Marshal of the parade will be Governor Francisco Cabeza de Vaca of Tamaulipas. King Citrus LXXX, who will be announced at the Royal Coronation the Thursday before the parade will serve as parade Marshal. Once the Grand Marshal and Parade Marshal pass There will be dignitaries not only from Mission but also Palmhurst, Palmview, La Joya, Alton and many other small towns who participate in the Texas Citrus Parade each year. And of course there will be officials from Hidalgo County. Bill Filut, Texas Citrus Fiesta president and parade chairman, said he anticipated over 200 parade entries by the time all applications have been turned in. There will be bands, drill teams, cheerleaders and ROTC groups from schools in Mission, Sharyland and La Joya ISDs participating. One of the favorite parade participants each year are the seven Oblate priests who ride their horses in the parade to represent the first Oblate Missionaries who came to the Rio Grande Valley to bring Christianity to the Native Americans who had not yet heard the word of God. The Texas Citrus Fiesta Royal Float carrying the Royal Court for 2017 will be in the parade. Riding on the float will be King Citrus, Queen Citrianna, her Lady-in Waiting, the older princesses and the 6-year-old princesses—members of the Tangerine Court. Duchesses who participated in the Royal Coronation will be sitting on the see PARADE OF ORANGES pg. 12

Ramiro J. Rodriguez, Jr. Mayor

Ruben De Leon Councilman

Jaime Aranda Councilman

Robert A Salinas Mayor Pro-Tem

Israel Silva Councilman

Ofelia Peña-Perez Councilwoman

4417 North Shary Rd. • Palmhurst, TX • (956)583-8697 • www.cityofpalmhursttx.com

Fiesta Souvenir Edition 2017

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Ben & Kathy Olivarez (Great Grandparents) Wendi Uhrbrock (Nana) Greg & Audrey Uhrbrock (Parents)

ATTENTION! ROAD CLOSURES

SATURDAY, JANUARY 28th Due to the festivities taking place with the 2017 Texas Citrus Fiesta the following roads will be closed at the times notated.

FUN FAIR

The Texas Citrus Fiesta Fun Fair will be located at the Leo Pena Plazita Park, downtown Mission. Business 83 at Conway intersection will be closed all day long, from 9:00am – 11pm for the Fun Fair. • Fun Fair parking will be located in the Fallas Paredes parking lot, located between Business 83 & Tom Landry. Entry to the parking lot will only be permitted through Perkins Street.

PARADE OF ORANGES • 3PM

Once again the Texas Citrus Fiesta Parade of Oranges will be on Conway; the route is from Griffin Parkway (495) to 1st Street. Spectators should line up north of 1st Street for the Parade.

10am – Conway, from Griffin Parkway (495) north to 2 Mile Road closes. 1pm – Griffin Parkway (495) closes 12pm – All cross streets off of Conway will be closed, with the exception of: •Kika de la Garza Loop •East Tom Landry •6th Steet •4th Street •1st Street 2pm – All Cross streets mentioned above will be closed.

Sponsered by:

Please make your travel plans accordingly, and allow yourself enough time in your commuting on Saturday to arrive safely at your destination. In case of an emergency, please call 911.

Fiesta Souvenir Edition 2017

PARADE OF ORANGES

From back of convertibles, wearing their beautiful gowns that represent citrus and other agricultural products grown in the Rio Grande Valley. The most important part of the parade for many people is seeing the floats that are decorated using citrus and other Valley agricultural products in celebration of the Valleyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s agricultural beginnings. At one time all floats were required to

pg. 9 be covered in citrus and agricultural products. Now there are different divisions for the float entries to compete in. The premier, and most challenging, float division is the Valley Products category, which requires extensive use of Valley agricultural products to decorate the float. This one is the biggest crowd pleaser. There are two Winter Texan float categories; one is for Winter Texan parks with

200 or more spaces, and the other is for parks with fewer than 200 spaces. The Winter Texan floats often rival the Valley Products floats in design, creativity and beauty. There are also float divisions for Elementary School, Church, and General. Prizes will be awarded to the top floats in each category. According to Filut, Conway Avenue between the Expressway and Mile 2 North Road will be closed about 10 a.m. as the parade lines up along this route. Major

Princess Anna LXVII Breana Gabrielle Garza

Congratulations Gabby! We are so proud of the young lady you are and thrilled you are making history. Enjoy your reign and remember to seek God first in all you do.

Love,

Johnathan and Amanda O'Cana, Jeremiah and Sam Robert and Idolina (Casas) Salinas Dr. Armando and Maria O'Cana

You are beautiful for you are fearfull y and wonderfull y made. Psalm 139: 14

cross streets such as FM 495, Kika de la Garza Loop and Business 83 will close one hour before the parade. The parade is free to the public. The only cost is for drinks, food and souvenirs purchased while waiting for the parade to start. Come out early and pick a great location to see the parade. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t forget lawn chairs, hats, sun shades and sun block if needed.

Fiesta Souvenir Edition 2017

Texas Citrus Fiesta round-up of events

With a theme like “Cheers to 80 Years of Texas Citrus Fiestas” there will be all kinds of different costume and float presentations honoring many of the past themes of the Texas Citrus, starting with the Fiesta’s 1932 Coronation and Pageant of Citrus. Elementary school children were asked to make shoebox floats of citrus products representing the theme, “Cheers to 80 Years.” These floats were judged Friday, Jan. 13 and the winners were announced on Jan. 14 at the Product Costume Style Show. Look for the shoebox floats on display at the Fiesta Fun Fair, Saturday, Jan. 28. Then they will be taken and put on display at Speer Memorial Library. The Product Costume Style Show is where the costumes made of citrus products are modeled. Categories included school children, teens and adults. There was also a hat contest as part of the Style Show. The Texas Citrus Fiesta Carnival will start Jan. 19 and run through Jan. 29. It will be located at the northwest corner of Conway and FM 495 on the other side of the old Carl’s Supermarket. Bracelets for rides will be available from Heart of American Carnival. The Royal Reception, a formal ball, will be held Saturday, Jan. 21 at 7 p.m. at the new Balli’s Terrace Events Center, 1509 Industrial Blvd., in Mission. Tickets are $50 per person and must be purchased in advance at the Texas Citrus Fiesta office. On Thursday, Jan. 26 the Royal Coronation will be held at 7 p.m. at the Mission

High School Neuhaus Center. In a majestic ceremony the new King Citrus LXXX, Queen Citrianna LXXX and Princess Anna LXVII will be crowned. Besides enjoying the presentation of 22 beautiful young duchesses dressed in their elegant ball gowns, the audience always enjoys watching the 6-year-old royal crown bearer and train bearers as they impatiently fidget while at center stage during the royal ceremony – which can be quite tiresome for a 6-year-old. The identity of the new King Citrus LXXX is a closely-guarded secret until he is announced at the coronation. Following tradition, he will be prominent figure in the Rio Grande Valley’s citrus industry. After he is introduced the Royal Court Including Queen Citrianna LXXX will be presented to the King. The queen and her royal court was selected at the previous coronation. The little princesses of the Tangerine Court were selected at a Princess Anna Contest held in November. Once the Royal Court is seated, duchesses representing cities across the Rio Grande Valley are presented. As though the naming of King Citrus and the crowning of the King, Queen and Princess Anna were not enough, the climax of the evening for the duchesses will be the final announcement of the evening – revealing the names of the next year’s Queen Citrianna LXXXI and those selected to be members of her Royal Court will be announced. The queen is always selected a year in advance and will preside over next year’s Citrus Fiesta. see EVENTS pg. 14

80th Texas Citrus Fiesta “Cheers to 80 years” Product Costume Show Royal Reception Ball

Balli’s Terrace Event Center • 1509 Industrial Blvd Saturday, Jan. 21, at 7 p.m. $50 per person, pre-sale only

Royal Coronation of King Citrus and Queen Citrianna Neuhaus Gym at Mission High School Thursday, Jan. 26, at 7 p.m. $5 General Seating • $10 Reserved Seating

Fiesta Fun Fair

Saturday, Jan. 28, from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Free Gate Admission at Leo Peña Placita Park Food Vendors – Arts & Craft – Kiddie Rides – Entertainment

Parade of Oranges

Saturday, Jan. 28, at 3 p.m. (Judging, 1 p.m.) North to South on Conway, from FM 495 to Fourth Street Line up starts at 11 a.m. • Parade entry deadline: Jan. 13

Vaquero Cook-off

Saturday, Jan. 28, all day • Leo Peña Veterans Park Entry deadline: Jan. 27 (Jan. 20 for food permit)

Citrus Youth Show Jan. 28 • Leo Pena Placita Park Fiesta Fun Run

Saturday, Jan. 28, at 7:30 a.m. Mission Hike and Bike Trail • Call 580-8760

Mission Historical Museum exhibit Fiesta Display 900 Doherty Ave., Mission • 956 580-8646

Heart of American Canival January 19-29

FM 495 at Conway Ave For more information Call 956-585-9724, email info@texascitrusfiesta.org or visit www.texascitrusfiesta.org.

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EVENTS

From pg. 13 Saturday is Parade Day The Fiesta Fun Fair will take place in And so much more downtown Mission at Leo Pena Placita Saturday, Jan. 28 is filled with activities Park, located across from H-E-B on Consponsored by the Texas Citrus Fiesta. At 8 way at Business 83. The fair will run from a.m. there is the Texas Citrus Fiesta Fun 10 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. with live bands and Run being held at the Mission Hike and dancers, arts and craft vendors and lots of Bike Trail, 1414 S. Conway. Registration traditional fair food. Admission is free. starts at 7 p.m. Cost of participation is $20 The Citrus Fiesta Vaquero Cook-off for adults and $10 for youth. Last year’s will be held at Leo Peña Veterans Park at Fiesta Fun Run had 123 participants, and 9th St. and Conway. Cooking will begin Mission Parks & Rec is expecting close to early in the morning and judging will take 200 this year. see EVENTS pg. 15

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214 Chimney Rd • Mission, TX

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Celebrating the 80th Annual Texas Citrus Fiesta 81-1033 The City of Palmview proudly supports

Duchess of Royal Palms

Zayde Hernandez Gerardo Perez Mayor

Joselito Hernandez Mayor Pro-Tem

Ricardo Villarreal Councilman

Ramon Segovia - City Manager

Javier Ramirez Councilman

Joel Garcia Councilman

Linda Sarabia Councilwoman

David Nacianceno -Assistant City Manager

www.cityofpalmview.com

Photo by Rio Photo & Design

Fiesta Souvenir Edition 2017 EVENTS

From pg. 14 place later in the day. way south to 4th Street along Conway The Texas Citrus Fiesta Youth Show Avenue. Up to 100,000 people are expectwill also be located at the park under a ed to be in attendance to view up to 200 large tent. Students participating in the cit- parade entries, including dozens of floats, rus fruit identification and selection con- bands, marching groups, dignitaries and tests will set up their displays on Friday. much more. Judging will take place Saturday morning Come on out and enjoy all the festivand the varied citrus exhibits will be on ities of this year’s Texas Citrus Fiesta. display throughout the day. It’s a great If you haven’t attended the Royal Corplace to see many, many different varieties onation or visited the Fiesta Fun Fair in of citrus grown here in the Valley. awhile, take a little time with the family to The grand finale of the Texas Citrus enjoy these hometown events that are an Fiesta is the Parade of Oranges that takes important part of the traditions and history place Saturday, Jan. 28 at 3 p.m. The pa- of Mission and the surrounding area. rade will start at F.M. 495 and make its

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Fiesta Souvenir Edition 2017

King Citrus, Queen Citrianna to be crowned at Royal Coronation

By Kathy Olivarez Each year, the Texas Citrus Fiesta hosts a special event that rivals the spectacular Parade of Oranges in beauty and royal splendor, harkening back to an earlier day of nobility and chivalry. The Texas Citrus Fiesta Royal Coronation will be an elegant display of grace and pageantry as 22 beautiful, young duchesses are presented before the Royal Court wearing gorgeous ball gowns. These young ladies, along with the Royal Court members, will attempt to charm the royal judges as they vie to become the next Queen Citrianna, the most coveted title in all the kingdom. This regal event will be presented at 7 p.m., Thursday, January 26 at the Neuhaus Center Gym on the campus of Mission High School. Tickets are $5 for general seating and $10 for reserved seating. The young duchesses competing for queen are dressed in beautiful gowns representing a variety of citrus and other agricultural products grown across the Rio Grande Valley. Each duchess is escorted by a six-year-old boy who serves as her page. There is also a group of six-year-old

girls who have been selected as princesses serving as part of the Royal Court. They were selected during a Princess Anna contest held each year in October or November. As the pageant begins the members of the Texas Citrus Fiesta Kingsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Association will step forward to be introduced. Each man in the association is involved in the citrus industry and has served as King Citrus for one year. After the ex-kings have been introduced, the name of the new king will be announced. He is selected by the Kings Association and is kept a closely-guarded secret until that moment. King Citrus LXXIX Jimmy Pawlik, will relinquish his crown to the new King Citrus LXXX, carrying on a Citrus Fiesta tradition since the first Texas Citrus Fiesta in 1932. Next, Queen Citrianna LXXX Bryceidee Leos will be escorted on stage by her Royal Crown Bearer, William Joseph Kocurek, son of Mr. And Mrs. Steven Kocurek of Corpus Christi and her Royal Train Bearers. The Royal Train Bearers include Aidan Carlos Almaraz, son of Mr. Carlos Almaraz and Ms. Rachel Valdez of San An-

tonio; Hunter Noel De Leon, son of Mr. and Mrs. Noel De Leon of Mission; Joaquin Adan Garza, son of Mr. Raul Garza Jr., and Mrs. Melissa Vela Garza of Mission; and Omar Andres Gonzalez, son of Mr. and Mrs. Homer Gonzalez Jr. of Sharyland. Queen Citrianna LXXX Queen Citrianna LXXX is Bryceidee Leos, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Edgar Leos of Palmview. Bryceidee graduated from Palmview High School in 2016 in the top 20 percent of her class. She had already earned 27 college hours through the early college program. She is now a freshman at South Texas College. While in high school she was a member of FFA, the Junior Honor Society and was a three-year varsity cheerleader. She was president of the senior class and competed in art competitions. Currently she volunteers at Our Lady of Guadalupe Church, the Salvation Army and at Sacred Heart Catholic Church working with immigrants. She has also raised funds for the Make a Wish Foundation and for a 7-year-old girl who was a cancer patient. She helped with a toy drive for the colonias in Mission and worked the

telethon on Univision to secure donations. Bryceidee plans to become a physician specializing in dermatology. Her hobbies are modeling and competing in pageants. Princess of Grapefruit Blossom Julissa Arianna Alvarez, daughter of Mr. Alex Alvarez and Ms. Melissa Cantu, of Mission will serve as Princess of Grapefruit Blossom. She is a junior at Mission High School. She served as first captain of the Mission High Flyers. She was selected as an All-Star and All-American at the dance camps in 2016. Julissa serves as secretary of the Mission High School FFA and was part of the conducting team that placed fourth at state in 2016. She is a member of the National Honor Society. Julissa is a member of the Healthy South Texas Youth Ambassadors who promote healthy eating throughout the community. She enjoys scrapbooking and spending time with her family. Devin Montenegro, son of Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Montenegro will serve as her see CORONATION pg. 18

& PROUDLY SUPPORT

Duchess of White Wing

Mariela Gonzalez

Fiesta Souvenir Edition 2017

Going strong after all these years! As it was in the beginning is now and ever shall be!

THE SPIRIT OF LA LOMITA MISSION LIVES HERE AT OUR LADY OF GUADALUPE PARISH

MASS SCHEDULE Saturday (English) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4:00 P.M. Saturday (Spanish) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7:00 P.M. Sunday (Spanish) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7:30 A.M. Sunday (English) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9:00 A.M. Sunday (English) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10:30 A.M. Sunday (Tex-Mex) Mariachi Mass . . . . . . . . . . . .(Noon)12:30 P.M. Sunday (Tex-Mex) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5:30 P.M. Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday & Friday (Tex-Mex) . . . .6:55 A.M. Thursday (Tex-Mex) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7:00 P.M.

CONFESSIONS Thursday . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6:00 P.M. Saturday . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3:00 P.M. “Texas Friendly” spoken at all masses, confessions and at the office too.” “The coldest air conditioning, the coolest dogs, and the warmest welcome in town!

Growing into the mystery of the future!

THE FATHERS: †FR. JIM, FR. PHILION, FR. ROY

(† MAGNA, †SENTINEL, †MAGNO, †AUGIE, †DIDYMUS, †CHUNKLY †GIRLY, CANTINA, VALENTINE, NEWLY, BENDITO & CHARLOTTE)

PADRES OBLATOS

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Fiesta Souvenir Edition 2017

CORONATION

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Princess of Orange Blossom Karla Cantu, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Mentor Cantu of Hidalgo, will serve as Princess of Orange Blossom. She is a senior at Hidalgo Early College High School. She will graduate with as associate’s degree in arts, which requires 60 or

more college hours She has been accepted into the pre-nursing program, at the University of Houston. Karla has been selected to play at the 2016 All Star Volleyball Western Showcase. She enjoys volunteering in her parent’s see CORONATION pg. 19

• Medicaid • Medicare Workman’s Comp • Chips • Private Insurance

Sharyland Dental Care

Fiesta Souvenir Edition 2017

CORONATION From pg. 18

non-profit cycling group to give to the community and playing volleyball yearround. Lady-in-Waiting SaraMaria Olivarez, daughter of Rosalinda Olivarez, of Edinburg, will serve as Lady-in-Waiting. She is a junior at the University of Texas –Rio Grande Valley. Her special honors include receiving a University Engaged Scholar Award, being named Best Lead Actress 3026 in a Film Race Contest; and serving as 2016 BorderFest Queen. Her hobbies being a Girl Scout volunteer and performing in theater and film. Princess Anna LXII Breana Gabrielle Garza, daughter of Amanda O’Cana is a first grade student at Hurla Midkiff Elementary in Mission. She was selected as Midkiff Elementary student of the Year in 2015, Miss Rio Grande Valley Top model 2016 and was cast in the Lion King Production 2017 All Star Theater. She is a student at Debi Lou Modeling Academy/ Debi Lou Productions. She enjoys acting and singing with All Star Theater. Princess of Lemon Blossom Victoria Andrea Gonzalez, daughter of Homer Gonzalez and Melissa Lopez Gonzalez of McAllen will serve as Princess of Lemon Blossom. She is in the first grade at Reynaldo Garza Elementary School. Her honors include being on the A & B Honor Roll and winning second place in her Campus Science Fair competition. She has received numerous awards with her competitive dance team including team championships and a third place in her jazz solo. Her hobbies include reading, creating crafts and playing educational games. She is very active in gymnastics, dance modeling and is a member of her campus chess club. Princess of Lime Blossom Natalia Iliana Botello, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Carlos Botello of Palmhurst, will serve as Princess of Lime Blossom. She is in the first grade at Escobar-Rios Elementary in Mission. She is an A Honor Roll student and was selected as a Student of the Month. She has achieved her Accelerated Reader goals in reading. Her hobbies are reading chapter books, and baking...with mom’s assistance, of course! Princess of Tangerine Blossom Lezley Sky Uhrbrock, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Greg Uhrbrock of Mission will serve as Princess of Tangerine Blossom. She is a first grade student at Hurla Midkiff Elementary in Mission. Lezley’s greatest honor is being selected as Princess of Tangerine Blossom for the Texas Citrus Fiesta. Her hobbies are drawing pictures, see CORONATION pg. 20

It brings me great joy to be associated with the 80th Anniversary celebration of Texas Citrus Fiesta I’d like to express my heartfelt gratitude to the individuals, business partners and community for their efforts in the production and marketing of the world’s best grapefruit and oranges. Thank you for creating so many fun filled memories for the families in our community the last 80 years.

Mayor Norberto “Beto” Salinas

Fiesta Souvenir Edition 2017 CORONATION

From swimming and playing with her brothers. Princess of Red Grapefruit Blossom Caitlyn Marie Cerda, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. David J. Cerda of Edinburg, will serve as Princess of Red Grapefruit Blossom. She is in first grade at Charles H. Mims Elementary in Mission. Her honors include being selected as Hidalgo County 4-H Clover of the Year,

pg. 19 being an All “A” Honor Roll Student with perfect attendance and student of the week. Her hobbies are dance and tumbling and being active in Hidalgo County community service projects. see CORONATION pg. 21

Duchess of Festivals Brianna Hernandez

We love you and are so proud of all your accomplishments!

Love,

Mom & Ricky Grandma Elida, Jose & Erika, Francisco & Desiree Aiden & Kylie

Special thanks to: Ochoa’s Flea Market, Glam Beauty Salon, A&E Paving Outta Town Dance Hall

Fiesta Souvenir Edition 2017 CORONATION

From pg. 20 Duchess of Bluebonnet Hector Chapa of Mission, will serve as her Brenda Lee Peña, daughter of Mr. and page. Mrs. Ivan Cepeda of Mission will serve as Duchess of Delta Waters Duchess of Bluebonnet. She is a sophoNatalie Glasper, daughter of Mr. and more at South Texas College Mrs. Curtis Glasper of McAllen, will Brenda was an area qualifier for the serve as Duchess of Delta Waters. She is a 200-meter dash in 2015, and performed junior at Lamar Academy. at the Alamodome with her color guard Her honors include being a member team. She was a volunteer at Escobar-Ri- of the National Honor Society, attending os Elementary. the International Baccalaureate of Lamar She enjoys playing tennis and cinema- Academy and being valedictorian of St. tography. Paul’s Lutheran School. Ivan Giovanni Cepeda, son of Mr. and Her extracurricular activities include Mrs. Ivan and Jennifer Cepeda, will serve playing basketball and piano. as her page. Tre Garcia, son of Mr. and Mrs. Gus and Nancy Garcia of Mission, will serve Duchess of Butterfly as her page. Brittany Nicole Landavazo, daughter of Duchess of Festivals Mr. Brian Landavazo and Ms. Nora LanBrianna Hernandez, daughter of Norma davazo of Mission, will serve as Duchess Ochoa and Gerardo Hernandez of Peñitas, of Butterfly. She is a junior at Sharyland will serve as Duchess of Festivals. She is a Pioneer High School. senior at Juarez Lincoln High School. Her honors include being highest acaHer honors include being named demically rank student in her class, being Miss Hidalgo BorderFest 2016-2017, bea candidate for the National Society of ing a major in the Silver Stars, the LinHigh School Scholars, and being a mem- coln-Juarez Drill Team, having the female ber of the Hidalgo County Cotillion. lead role of Nala in the musical “The Lion Hobbies and extracurricular activities King’ and being a TRIO Talent search stuinclude being a third year varsity soccer dent. player at Pioneer High School, volunteerBrianna’s hobbies include participation ing and helping with the SADD Club, Stu- in the Silver Star Drill Team and in Sol dent Council and C.A.M.P (Can Achieve Azteca, the folklorico group at Juarez-LinMaximum Potential) University. see CORONATION pg. 22 Victor Alec Chapa, son of Mr. and Mrs.

Congratulations from the Cantu Famil y Flores Famil y and Miramontes Famil y You have made us ver y proud of you and your accomplishments.

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Fiesta Souvenir Edition 2017

Saluting the 80

TEXAS CITRUS FIESTA

Arturo Galvan Jr Mayor Pro Tem

Salvador Vela Mayor

Ricardo Garza Commissioner

Richard Arevalo Commissioner

Emilio Cantu Jr Commissioner

City of Alton Congratulations to Duchess of Lantana

Amanda Galvan

CORONATION From pg. 21

coln High School. Aiden Javier Cedillo, son of Mr. and Mrs. Francisco Cedillo will serve as her page. Duchess of Honeydew Christyn Cavazos, daughter of Debbie Cavazos of Mission will serve as Duchess of Honeydew. She is a senior at Veterans Memorial High School in Mission. Her special honors include treasurer of the National Honor Society, member of the Alpha Theta Honor Society and being in the top three percent of her class. Christyn’s hobbies and extracurricular activities include debate captain, and treasurer for Students Against Drugs and Alcohol. John Marco Gonzalez, son of Ms. Iris Gonzalez of Mission, will serve as her page. Duchess of International Goodwill Alma Pamela Niño, daughter of Mr. Fernando Niño and Ms. Alma Mendez, will serve as Duchess of International Goodwill. She is a senior at Hidalgo Early College High School. Her honors include Miss Hidalgo 2016, vice-president of the Medical Club and participating in the National Drill Team Competition, most Improved 2016. Alma’s hobbies are dance and soccer. Oscar Antonio Peña, son of Mr. Oscar Peña and Ms. Kytzia Garcia of Pharr, will

serve as her page. Duchess of Lantana Amanda Galvan, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Arturo Galvan of Alton, will serve as Duchess of Lantana. She is a junior at the Science academy of South Texas. Her honors and extracurricular activities include National Honor Society, vice-president of the Engineering Club, A.C.T.S. member, and lector at San Martin de Porres Church. Amanda’s hobbies include the Pan American Student Forum, soccer, softball and volleyball. Wesley LeFevre, son of Mr. Richard LeFevre of McAllen, will serve as her page. Duchess of Live Oak Olivia Renee Vela, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Oscar Rene Vela of Edinburg, will serve as Duchess of Live Oak. She is a junior at Edinburg North High School. Her honors include National Honor Society, National Technical Honor Society and Science Honor Society. She is president of Junior Catholic Daughters of the Americas, Court of Our Lady of Mount Carmel. She is ranked first in the junior class at Edinburg North High School. Olivia’s activities include showing cattle through her high school’s FFA and the Linn-San Manuel 4-H where she serves see CORONATION pg. 23

ears in Business!! Y 5 3

Fiesta Souvenir Edition 2017 CORONATION

From as second vice-president. She has been an avid piano player for the past 12 years. Lucas Aaron Guerra, son of J.L. Pepe Guerra and Ms. Allena Cano of McAllen will serve as her page. Duchess of Mandarin Orange Sydney Skye Ramirez, daughter of Mr. Rumaldo Ramirez and Mrs. Anna Medina of Mission, will serve as Duchess of Mandarin Orange. She is a senior at South Texas High School for Medical Professions. Her honors include being in the top five student for the Class of 2017, being an All-A Honor Roll student and National Merit Scholar. Her extracurricular activities include Health Occupations Students of America and the National Technical Honor Society. Rick David Guzman, son of Mr. Rick Guzman and Ms. Maria Cassandra Garza of Mission, will serve as her page. Duchess of Marsh White Grapefruit Madeline Cristine Madden, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Adrian Arriaga of Mission, will serve as Duchess of Marsh White Grapefruit. She is a sophomore at Sharyland Advanced Academic Academy. Her honors include being a member of the National Junior Honor society, being a brown belt in Krav-Maga, and being a member of the Sharyland Pioneer Varsity tennis team. Madeline’s extra-curricular activities

pg. 22 include Junior Catholic Daughters of the Americas and Krav-Maga. Samuel Garza Jr., son of Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Garza Sr. of Mission, will serve as her page. Duchess of Oleander Bianca Medina, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Steve Medina of Palmhurst, will serve as Duchess of Oleander. She is a senior at Veterans Memorial High School in Mission. Her honors include National Honor Society at her high school where she is in the top eight percent of her graduating class. She was also Veterans Memorial High School Homecoming Queen in 2016. Bianca’s Hobbies are modeling and cheerleading. Adam James Lozano, son of Ms. Amanda Lee Lozano of Palmhurst, will serve as her page. Duchess of Orange Cecilia Corrina Tovias, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Javier Tovias of San Juan, will serve as Duchess of Orange. She is a senior at Edinburg High School. Her special honors include acceptance to the 2016 American Musical and Dramatic Academy High School Summer Conservatory, performing in the 2016 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, and college acceptance to the American Musical and Dramatic Academy as a junior. Cecilia’s hobbies include being a danc-

er at Nadia’s School of Dance and being an Edinburg High School dramaticist. Javier Xander Martinez, son of Mr. and Mrs. Jaime and Marisela Martinez of Palmview, will serve as her page. Duchess of Palms Kennedy Lee Castillo, daughter of Ms. Annie Salazar of McAllen, will serve as Duchess of Palms. She is a senior at Oratory Athenaeum for University Preparation. Her hobbies include being a Varsity UCA all-American Cheerleader, an Our Lady of the Lake University Presidential scholar, and being a member of the National Honor Society and a Scholar’s member. Kennedy’s hobbies and extracurricular activities include being a member of the Hidalgo County Cotillion and being yearbook editor for her school. Nathan Riley Peña, son of Mr. and Mrs. Rolando and Heather Peña of Alamo, will serve as her page. Duchess of Pink Grapefruit Jewel Estella Ybarra, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Julian Ybarra Jr., of Mission will serve as Duchess of Pink Grapefruit. She is a junior at Sharyland High School. Her special honors include winning a state chess championship and a being national chess champion. She is also a National All-star cheerleader. Jewel’s extracurricular activities include being a varsity cheerleader and working with disabled children and rescued animals.

Andrew Joseph Flores, son of Mr. and Mrs. Arnold Flores Jr. of Mission, will serve as her page. Duchess of Poinsettia Alissa Marie Aguilar, daughter of Mr. Rajian Bahkta and Ms. Janette Hinojosa of Mercedes will serve as Duchess of Poinsettia. She is a senior at Mercedes Early College Academy. She is a member of the National Honor Society, The National Association of Student Councils and The National Society of High School Scholars. Alissa’s extracurricular activities include being a Student Ambassador and serving on the Robotics Competition Team. Roque Hinojosa, II son of Mr. Roque Hinojosa and Ms. Yvonne Segura, will serve as her page. Duchess of Retama Karla Guzman, daughter of Mr. Carlos Guzman and Mrs. Magdalena Aguinaga of La Joya, will serve as Duchess of Retama. She is a junior at La Joya Early College High School. She ranks in the top four in the Junior Class. She is a UIL participant, and an AP an Dual Enrollment Scholar. She is a member of the National Honor Society and is Junior Class Council Manager. Karla’s extracurricular activities include being an altar server and volunteer at Our Lady Queen of Angels Catholic Church for the past seven years. Her hobbies include dancing with the La Joya Jewsee CORONATION pg. 24

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From pg. 23

elettes Drill Team and listening to music. Daniel Izaiah Silva, son of Mr. and Mrs. Leo Silva of Rio Grande City, will serve as her page. Duchess of Rio Red Sara Elizabeth Forthuber, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Marcus Forthuber of McAllen, will serve as Duchess of Rio Red. She is a junior at International Baccalaureate at Lamar Academy. Her honors include ranking second in a class of 545 students, maintaining a weighted grade point average of 108. And being elected class vice-president her freshmen, sophomore and junior years. Sarah’s hobbies and extracurricular activities include being a senior member of Melba’s Dance Studio where she has danced for 14 years and is currently in a lead role for “Swan Lake.” She is also a member of the McAllen High School Water Polo and Ultimate Frisbee teams. Bryan Edward Wilkins, son of Mr. and Mrs. Mark Wilkins of McAllen, will serve as her page. Duchess of Royal Palms Zayde Hernandez, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Benito Hernandez of Mission, will serve as Duchess of Royal Palms. She is a junior at the University of Texas-Rio Grande Valley. Her honors include being on Our Lady of the Lake’s Deans’ List, ranking in the top 10 at Palmview High School in 2015

and being on the A&B Honor Roll. Zayde’s hobbies or extracurricular activities include being a Cheer Strike AllStars Cheerleader and a volunteer at Sam Ministries. Jaime Cordova Jr., son of Ms. Alma Garza of Mission, will serve as her page. Duchess of Ruby Red Grapefruit Gabriela Christina Flores, daughter of Ms. Zonia Castillo and Mr. Ricardo Flores of Mission, will serve as Duchess of Ruby Red Grapefruit. She is a student at PharrSan Juan-Alamo North High School. Her Honors include being a four-year member of the drill team serving as sergeant, and as headliner officer and co-captain for two years. She is a member of the Hidalgo County Cotillion. Gabriela’s hobbies and extracurricular activities include being an award-winning debater for PSJA North. She is a dancer with multiple state and national awards. Juan Pablo Martinez, son of Mr. and Mrs. Canuto Martinez of Pharr will be her page. Duchess of Star Ruby Grapefruit Linsey Marie Garza, daughter of Mr. Brian Garza and Ms. Stacie Gerlach of Mission, will serve as Duchess of Star Ruby. She is a sophomore at Sharyland Pioneer High School. Her honors include Pioneer High see CORONATION pg. 25

CONGRATULATIONS TO KING CITRUS LXXX

“Producing Quality Organic Texas Citrus & Vegetables for over 33 years”

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Fiesta Souvenir Edition 2017 CORONATION From pg. 24

School Golf “Newcomer of the Year” in 2016, 2016 Second Team All-district, and Third Team All-Valley competition in golf. She was on the 2015-2016 “A&B” Honor Roll. Linsey’s hobbies and extracurricular activities include cycling with her father and doing volunteer work at Raquel Cavazos Elementary. She enjoys doing arts and crafts with her family. Jaiden Abraham Balderas, son of Mr. and Mrs. Jorge Abraham Balderas and Kasandra Balderas of Mission, will serve as her page. Duchess of White Wing Mariela Gonzalez, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Raul and Ana Gonzalez of Peñitas, will serve as Duchess of White Wing. She is a Junior at La Joya High School. Her special honors include being principal dancer for Grupo Folklorico Tabasco, being chosen for a TGC University Tour to Ivy League School In Boston and being elected as secretary of the National Honor Society. Mariela’s hobbies and extracurricular activities include folkloric dancing and community service with the National Honor Society Her page will be Ruben Josiah Martinez, son of Mr. Pedro Martinez and Ms. Lucinda Villarreal of Mission. Duchess of Wildflowers Anjelica Denise Garcia, daughter of

Mr. and Mrs. Jose Garcia of Alton, will serve as Duchess of Wildflowers She is a senior at Mission High School. Her special honors include being a twoyear All American Dancer, a three-year Superlative Officer, and a two-year member of the Hidalgo Cotillion. Angela’s hobbies include the dance team at her high school and Business Professionals of America. Diego Alberto Garcia, son of Ms. Roxanne Garcia of Alton, will serve as per page.

We Salute The 80th

Texas Citrus Fiesta

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TCF Fun Fair offers great entertainment, hometown fun

By Kathy Olivarez The annual Texas Citrus Fiesta Fun Fair will be held at Leo Pena Placita Park in downtown Mission. The date is Saturday, Jan. 28 and the fair will be open from 10 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. Admission is free. The Fun Fair will include an entertainment area for children, arts and crafts, all kinds of foods, and of course, a great lineup of entertainment. Entertainment starts at 11 a.m. with The Blackbirds, a Beatles cover band. From 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. Casual Fox, a Classic Rock band will perform. From 3 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Mayberry, a Pop band, will take the stage, and at 5 p.m. Invazzion will play Conjunto Country music. At 7 p.m. an up and coming band, Whiskey D. will take the stage until 8:30 p.m. Whiskey D. is a Texas Outlaw music band. Runnin’ with the likes of Skynyrd, The Allmans, Waylon, Coe and Charlie Daniels that is growing in popularity across Texas. The band is comprised of five seasoned veterans of the Texas music scene with J.R. on lead, rhythm guitar and slide guitar; Danny on lead, rhythm; Joey on bass; Rene on drums and Rock on lead vocals.

Whiskey D. has grown a steady fan base with their high energy no holds barred performances and by performing for audiences all over Texas including stints with some high profile artists including Kevin Fowler, Mark Chesnutt, Pat Green, Randy Rogers Band, Cody Canada, Jesse Dayton, and Siggno. Others include the legendary Texas Tornados, the Spazmatics, Fran Cosmo the former lead singer of the Classic Rock band Boston, and La Mafia. Whiskey D. is currently touring in support of their live album “Bootleg Whiskey.” Buck N Crazy, known for its country, Texas Country and Americana music will take the stage at 9 p.m. until 10:30 p.m. when the Fun Fair closes down The band is composed of Roy Torres, lead vocal and guitarist, George King, bass, Jorge Arellano, drums, Jason Moreno, acoustic guitar and manager, and Javier Silva, lead guitar. The group, headquartered out of Donna, plays regularly at the Mustang Lounge in Weslaco and at Tejano Night Club in San Benito. Vaquero Cookoff The delicious aromas floating through the air while visitors are listening to music see FUN FAIR pg. 27

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Fiesta Souvenir Edition 2017

FUN FAIR From pg. 26

and examining the arts and crafts will be coming from the annual Vaquero CookOff taking place in Rotary Park adjacent to the Placita. Each year, several teams of “cowboys” take their chuck wagons to the park and set up to cook fajitas, pork ribs, pan de campo, beans and peach cobbler, competing to be named best cook-off team at the Fiesta. All foods must be cooked over an open fire; no gas grills are allowed. In addition

to the taste of their foods, the teams will also be judged on citrus presentation. Judging starts at 1 p.m. This year to add to the competition one of the Vaquero teams will be an all-girl cooking team. Go out and see if the ladies can outdo the men on an open fire barbecue grill. Citrus Youth Show Also located in a tent nearby will be the see FUN FAIR pg. 28

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Fiesta Souvenir Edition 2017 FUN FAIR From pg. 27

Congratulations on 80 successful years. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m poud to be a part of

2017 Texas Citrus Fiesta

Texas Citrus Fiesta Citrus Youth Show. Students participating in 4-H and FFA across the Valley are given a unique opportunity to learn how to select top quality citrus through this program when citrus experts visit schools before the show to teach students the characteristics of top-quality citrus fruits. After the lessons have been taught, participating students are taken to local citrus groves and allowed to select fruit for his or her display at the show. The top three selections of each citrus variety win prize money.

There will also be a citrus fruit judging show where teams identify the types of fruits on display and rank them from best to worst. Winners in the contest will also receive plaques or ribbons. Once all the judging has been completed, the fruit used for the competition will be sold. Proceeds from the sales will go to a youth scholarship program. A scholarship is available to a senior who participates in the show. With so many activities going on, no one will want to miss the Texas Citrus Fiesta Fun Fair.

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Fiesta Souvenir Edition 2017

A T S E FI FAIR N U Y F RDA SATU RY 28 A U N A J

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Fiesta Fun Fair â&#x20AC;¢ Live Entertainment

Schedule Jan 28, 2017 H11am-12:30pm-The Blackbirds (Beatles Cover band) H1-2:30pm Casual Fox (Classic Rock) H3-4:30pm Mayberry (Pop Band) H5-6:30pm Invazzion (Conjunto Country) H7-8:30pm Whiskey D. (Texas Outlaw) H9-10:30pm-Buck n Crazy (Country Tejano)

Citrus Youth Show & Fruit Sale Fiesta Office Parking Lot - 10:30AM-3PM All Activities at Leo Placita Park

Conway Ave & Business 83

Fiesta Souvenir Edition 2017 TCF 1932 From pg. 7

By 1947 the Style Show held in the Mission High School gym took the place of the children’s parade as it was not affected by weather. Through the years many, many children participated in the Style Show. Another change in 1947 was that dehydrated agricultural products were used to make the Citrus Fiesta costumes instead of the fresh fruit previously used. Using

dehydrated products, the costumes would last much longer and could be displayed at different times of the year. In 1951 the Tangerine Court was added as part of the Royal Court. Six-year-old girls competed for the title of Princess Anna and the other members of the court. In the beginning, Princess Anna was see TCF 1932 pg. 31

Riding on the float is June Custer, Mission High School FFA Sweetheart. This float by the MHS Future Farmers of America won first place in the commercial division in 1948.

CONGRATULATIONS ON 80 HISTORIC YEARS

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Fiesta Souvenir Edition 2017

Celebrating The 80th Annual Texas Citrus Fiesta

TCF 1932 From pg. 31

As these cities developed their own festivals some have stopped sending duchesses to participate in the Citrus Fiesta Coronation, but as Mission grows, there are enough organizations to support additional local duchesses. The Texas Citrus Fiesta Fun Fair was added in the early 1980s to add a new dimension to the celebration with craft shows, fun activities for children, music and lots of food. Many local clubs and organizations participated in the event. Other events like the Vaquero Cookoff, the Mayor’s International Brunch, and the Texas Citrus Fiesta Youth Show have added new dimensions to the festival that now stretches over the latter half of January. When John H. Shary first created the Texas Citrus Fiesta in 1932, he had great visions for using the Fiesta as a marketing tool for the Texas Citrus industry. Of course, he did much more than market the Rio Grande Valley citrus industry; he created it. When Shary first visited the Valley in 1912 he immediately saw an opportunity to develop citrus production into an industry. He took risks, first by purchasing 12,000 acres from the Judge Brooks estate and 6,000 acres from the Briggs estate. In 1914, he purchased another 16,000 acres from the Swift estate and 20,000 acres from the Oblate Fathers. Although the Rio Grande Valley had extremely fertile soil, Shary knew he needed water if the land was to be used to produce crops—whether his own or for the Mid-West farmers who bought land from Shary and other land developers. So, he created the United Canal Company to pump water from the river and deliver it to the newly-formed farms. Shary then planted his first 300 acres of citrus at what is now the intersection of Shary Road and Business 83. Soon, he planted another 3,000 acres of citrus, forming Sharyland Plantation. Another hurdle to overcome was not only marketing a new industry, but getting the product to market. In 1921, the first railcar of citrus was shipped from the Valley, and in the 1921-1922 season the Mission area shipped 54 railroad cars of citrus to northern markets. As a result of overcoming these and many other obstacles, Shary is now fondly remembered as the “Father of the Texas Citrus Industry.” Citrus fruit from the Rio Grande Valley is now shipped all over the world due to the hard work of John H. Shary and all the citrus producers who followed during the past century. And the Texas Citrus Fiesta tradition lives on in Mission every January.

Fiesta Souvenir Edition 2017

TCF Corporate Sponsors 2017

Fiesta Souvenir Edition 2017

Tamaulipas Gov. Cabeza de Vaca & U.S. Congressman Cuellar to speak a Mayor’s International Brunch

Governor Francisco Cabeza de Vaca of Tamaulipas, Mexico will be keynote speaker at the Mayor’s International Brunch to be held Saturday, Jan. 28 at the Mission Community Center. The brunch is by invitation only. Gov. Cabeza de Vaca will also serve as Parade Marshal for the Texas Citrus Fiesta Parade of Oranges. U.S. Congressman Henry Cuellar will

also speak at the brunch. The two men will discuss plans for the new International Railroad Bridge to be built in Madero. Four new Sister City agreements will be signed as part of the brunch. Cities to be recognized are the municipalities of General Teran, Nuevo Leon, Mexico; Coatlan del Rio, Morelos, Mexico; Guadalupe, Nuevo Leon, Mexico; and Santiago, Nuevo Leon, Mexico.

U.S. Congressman Henry Cuellar

Governor of Tamaulipas Francisco Cabeza de Vaca

Breakfast Tacos 99¢* *Except meat tacos

Lunch Tacos $1.79* *Additional ingredients extra

Mission

1800 W. Griffin Pkwy. 584-3441

Mission

Palmview

McAllen

304 N. La Homa Rd. 585-0323

4524 S. Ware Rd. 994-0060

1901 W. Mile 3 Rd. 585-8411

The CiTy of La Joya wouLd Like To CongraTuLaTe

Karla

Guzman duChess of reTama

Mission

2201 W. Expressway 83 583-9898

La Joya City Council Jose A. “Fito” Salinas Mayor

Mary Salinas Mayor Pro-Tem Victorio Salinas Commissioner Anna Lisa Ruiz Commissioner Maria E. “Genny” Salinas Commissioner Mike Alaniz City Administrator Roberto Jackson City Attorney Julianita Sabala Administrative Secretary

Fiesta Souvenir Edition 2017