Texas Citrus Fiesta Special Edition

Published by Progress Times, Mission, TX Š 2016 Mission Publishing Company

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Look for Comic and Cartoon characters at TCF Parade of Oranges

By Kathy Olivarez It is time for the 79th Annual Texas Citrus Fiesta Parade and this year’s parade is sure to be fun for young and old alike as the theme for this year is “Citrus, Cartoons and Comic Book Characters.”

The parade will start at 3 p.m., Saturday, Jan. 30 at the intersection of Conway Avenue and FM 495 (Griffin Pkwy.) and move south to 4th Street along Conway Avenue in Mission.

Texas’ new Agricultural Commissioner, Sid Miller, will serve as parade marshal.

Look for 25 floats of all kinds including several decorated with citrus and other Valley agricultural products. There will be two Winter Texan floats and three commercial floats advertising other celebrations. Look for elementary schools, churches, civic or business floats and others including two Winter Texan golf cart entries.

Get ready to stand up and salute the flag as the military marching units pass by. Then there are ten marching bands in the parade. The five high schools and five junior high marching bands participating will provide the music for the parade.

Wave as cars, trucks and floats carrying Mission and Hidalgo County elected officials and dignitaries from surrounding communities lead the parade along with police and sheriff cars, emergency vehicles and fire trucks.

The Texas Citrus Fiesta duchesses in their lovely ball gowns will once again be riding in the back of convertibles.

Mission’s Sister Cities from Mexico will be entering cars to represent their cities.

And throw in a few antique cars for good measure.

The Cavalry of Christ riders will be there to remind everyone one of Mission’s heritage as a mid-point along the

route traveled by the priests in the early days of Texas before the Valley’s agricultural empire got its start.

Clowns will be working the parade route, entertaining children as they march.

Various types of food will be available. Nora Hinojosa, co-chairman, said Don’s famous sirloin butte barbecue sandwiches will be available along the parade route as the BBQ Brigade pulls their barbecue trailers up and down Conway delivering this delicious Fiesta traditional treat to anyone desiring to purchase one. These will be available from 1 to 3 p.m., or until their supply runs out.

Proceeds from the barbecue help pay the Fiesta’s expenses. Other vendors will sell anything from Girl Scout cookies to chips, and a variety of other foods while people wait for festivities to get started.

Go early and stake out a good viewing spot, as there are usually 100,000 people or more in attendance, lined all up and

down Conway Avenue.

When the parade starts rolling down Conway Avenue, look for the signature symbol of the Texas Citrus Fiesta – floats colorfully decorated using nothing but citrus fruit and other agricultural products grown in the Rio Grande Valley. These unique floats, always the big draw for the Fiesta Parade of Oranges, are competing in the Valley Products float category for prizes, but mostly for community pride in their creative masterpieces.

There are different categories of floats, but the floats covered with fresh citrus and other Valley products are often the most popular. Other float categories, or divisions, include Winter Texan I (smaller RV parks), Winter Texan II (large parks), Schools Division, Church, General and Commercial. All compete for awards in their respective divisions.

Other competitive parade entries that are judged and receive awards include Bands-High School, Bands-Jr. High,

Marching Units (not bands), Marching Units-Military, and Golf Cart Division.

Float builders usually keep their float designs a secret until the big day. However, they must adhere to this year’s Texas Citrus Fiesta theme of “Citrus, Cartoons and Comic Book Characters.”

The floats in the Valley Products category are made by churches, clubs, civic organizations, businesses and Winter Texan resorts, covered in products grown in the Rio Grande Valley. Even in the other divisions, many floats have some citrus on them. Usually, there are about 80 floats, including school and church groups, Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts, and others.

Parade Chairman Bill Filut and Larry and Joyce Hildebrand will be at the start of the parade lining up the entries so that it flows smoothly for parade goers. Wave a friendly “thank you” to them if you spot them. It’s a big, hard job!

And say “thank you” to all the law enforcement officers and firefighters who help with traffic control and crowd safety.

We couldn’t do it without their help.

Come out and see one of the most popular parades in South Texas. With an annual attendance of approximately 100,000 people, it’s wise to get out early to pick a good spot where you can get a good view of the parade.

If you plan to go to the parade, or for that matter, if you plan to do any driving in the vicinity of Conway Avenue on parade day, be aware that Conway Avenue will be closed from 1 p.m. until the end of the parade, from 2 Mile Line to the Expressway. At 12 p.m. or sooner, all cross streets of Conway will be closed, except for Griffin Parkway, Kika de la Garza, 6th Street and 1st Street. Those streets are expected to close at 2 p.m.

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79th Texas Citrus Fiesta “Citrus, Cartoons and Comic Book Characters” Product Costume Show Mission Community Center Saturday, Jan. 16, at 2 p.m. $5 per person

Royal Reception Ball Mission Community Center Saturday, Jan. 23, at 7 p.m. $50 per person

Royal Coronation of King Citrus and Queen Citrianna Neuhaus Gym at Mission High School Thursday, Jan. 28, at 7 p.m. $5 General Seating • $10 Reserved Seating

Fiesta Fun Fair

Saturday, Jan. 30, 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. 30, at 3 p.m.

North to South on Conway, from FM 495 to Fourth Street Line up starts at 11 a.m. • Parade entry deadline: Jan. 20

Vaquero Cook-off

Saturday, Jan. 30, all day • Leo Peña Veterans Park Entry deadline: Jan. 29 (Jan. 22 for food permit)

Fiesta Fun Run

Saturday, Jan. 30, at 7:30 a.m.

Mission Hike and Bike Trail

Mission Historical Museum Exhibit Fiesta Display 900 Doherty Ave., Mission • 956 - 580 - 8646 Heart of America Carnival FM 495 and Conway Avenue Jan. 21-31

Citrus Youth Show

Jan. 30 • Leo Pena Placita Park

For more information Call 956-585-9724 or visit www.texascitrusfiesta.org

Texas Citrus Fiesta Roundup of Events

By Kathy Olivarez Get ready for another rousing Texas Citrus Fiesta as Mission honors the pioneers as well as today’s leaders of the Texas citrus industry. The Texas Citrus Fiesta covers a two-week period from Jan. 16 to Jan. 30.

Things got started on Saturday, Jan. 16, with the Product Costume Show. Models wore costumes that were covered in citrus and other locally grown agricultural products. These products have been dried, dehydrated, and glued to the costume. The event was held at the Mission Community Center.

The winners of the annual Shoebox Float Competition for children in fourth and fifth grades in La Joya, Mission and Sharyland school districts were announced at the Product Costume Show. The winning floats will be on display after the Fiesta at Speer Memorial Library.

On Saturday, Jan. 23, the Texas Citrus Fiesta Royal Gala honoring King Citrus, Queen Citrianna and their Royal Court will be a formal event. There will be a formal presentation of the 2016 Royal Court, followed by a dinner and dance. It will be the first event where the Royal Court and Duchesses wear their formal gowns. It will be held at the Mission Community Center.

Tickets are $50 each.

On Thursday, Jan. 28 the Royal Coronation of King Citrus, Queen Citrianna and the rest of their Royal Court will be presented. The duchesses who come from communities all over the Rio Grande Valley will be vying to be selected as the 2017 Queen Citrianna. The coronation will take place at Neuhaus Gym on the campus of Mission high School, 1802 W. Cleo Dawson Drive (18th Street). The event starts at 7 p.m. and tickets are $10 for reserved seats and $5 for general admission.

On the morning of Saturday, Jan. 30, things get off to a running start early in the morning with the Fiesta 5K Fun Run/Walk at the Hike and Bike Trail on South Conway. Participants may register at the Mission Parks and Recreation office until Jan. 27. Late registration starts at 7 a.m. at the site on Jan. 30 and a shotgun start begins the race at 8 a.m. Call Mission Parks and Recreation for more information at (956) 580-8760.

The annual Texas Citrus Fiesta Fun Fair will be held from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. at Leo Peña La Placita Park in downtown Mission at Conway Avenue and Business 83. Take a stroll through the fair and enjoy a variety of foods, crafts and a full line-up of musical and dance entertainment. There will be educational and commercial exhibits. Admission is free.

The annual Vaquero Cook-off takes place in Rotary Park, adjacent to La Placita.

It is a competitive event that uses authentic campfire cooking to prepare pork ribs, fajitas, charro beans, pan de polvo, and peach cobbler among other foods for competition.

Each team will have their campsite decorated in a unique style. Teams compete to see who has the best food in the different categories. The cook-off competition runs from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.

The Citrus Youth Show Exhibit will be on display from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. under the big white tent on the grounds of the Fun Fair. FFA and 4-H members from throughout the Rio Grande Valley compete with as many as 1,000 fruit entries. Come by and see the many different types of citrus fruit grown in the Valley and buy a bag to take home after the competition is over.

The grand finale to the Texas Citrus Fiesta is the Parade of Oranges that starts at 3 p.m. at the corner of FM 495 and Conway Avenue. It will travel south to 4th Street.

The parade will feature all kinds of different floats but the ones that are always the favorite – and the most challenging to build – are those that have been covered in citrus and other agricultural products grown in the Valley.

Those who come early to stake out their prime viewing spots do not need to go hungry. Members of the Texas Citrus Fiesta Barbecue Brigade will be moving up and down the parade route selling the famous Fiesta top sirloin barbecue sandwiches.

For those who are young in heart the annual Texas Citrus Fiesta Carnival will be located on North Conway and FM 495 (Griffin Parkway). The carnival is open Jan. 21 through Feb. 1.

For more information about any of these events, call the Fiesta office at (956) 5859724 or email info@texascitrusfiesta.org.

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TCF Fun Fair offers a variety of entertainment

This year’s Fiesta Fun Fair will provide everything that is needed for that hometown fair experience we all enjoy every year.

Entertainment will be provided by some talented local performers. A full food court will provide all kinds of delicious fair foods, South Texas style. And a nice array of vendors will display and sell arts and crafts and other items.

Live entertainment runs continuously all day, beginning at 10 a.m. and lasting until 10:30 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 30, when Mission hosts the annual Texas Citrus Fiesta Fun Fair at Leo Pena “La Placita” and Rotary Park in downtown Mission.

Entertainment kicks off with DJ Sam from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. The Vixens perform from 12 p.m. to 12:15 p.m. Grupo Folklorico will take the stage at 12:15 and perform until 12:45 p.m.

Invazzion will perform from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. Draft will play from 3 to 4 p.m.

Auranova will take the stage at 4:30 and play until 5:30 p.m. Matt N. Herdsman comes on stage from 6 to 7 p.m. Whisky D will play from 7:30 to 9 p.m. and Mayberry will end the entertainment, playing from 9:30 until 10:30 p.m.

In addition to this lineup of entertainment the Fun Fair will have a number of vendors for arts and craft sales. Chairwoman Minnie Rodgers said some of the popular returning vendors include Plush Toys, Angel’s Rose Jewelry and Elvia’s Little Jeans. Red Rover Traders will be back with their sterling silver jewelry. Chico’s Creations will also sell jewelry.

Look for new booths such as Grass Strip Attitudes and Tea and Tales Tea Party. Other new booths will have knife sales, wooden toys and pet clothing.

And there will be a train for kiddie rides on the west side of the grounds.

There will be foods galore! Rodgers said there will be Mexican tacos, all kinds of tamales, hamburgers, fries, hot dogs, spiral potatoes, turkey legs, corn on the cob, pineapple spears, Italian sausage, and catfish and shrimp on a stick, tacos de canasta, chicken barbecue, and pizza.

If fair goers get thirsty, they can look for lemonade, citrus and citrus juice and soft drinks. For dessert look for funnel cakes, salty empanadas and fried Twinkies.

The Vaquero Cook-off will be held at Rotary Park and there will be judging of pork ribs, fajitas, beans, pan de campo and peach cobbler. Some lucky fair goers may be able to convince the cooks to share a bite or two of what they have prepared.

There is sure to be something for everyone’s taste. Go out and enjoy the entertainment, look at the crafts and other items for sale, and get a bite to eat at Mission’s hometown Fun Fair.

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Valley youth learn how to select quality citrus

While other folks are out enjoying all the fun activities related to the Texas Citrus Fiesta, youth from across the RGV who are participating in 4-H or FFA are being offered a unique opportunity to learn how to select top quality citrus through the Texas Citrus Fiesta Youth Show – and a chance to earn scholarship money. The show will be housed in a huge white tent on the grounds of Fun Fair and Vaquero Cook-off.

Citrus experts are brought in along with the school ag teachers to teach the students about citrus in agriculture classes weeks before the show. They learn about the many different citrus varieties grown and how to recognize the characteristics of high quality citrus fruit. After the classes have been taught, students from high school agriculture classes are be taken to local groves where they are allowed to select fruit for a display that will be judged for the quality characteristics of the fruit selected. The growers donate the fruit for the competition and fruit sales at the show.

Ruben Alaniz, show chairman and ag instuctor, said on Friday, Jan. 29, between 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. students will set up their entries under a large tent in the parking lot area. Once all the entries have been prepared, judges who are citrus experts will select the winners for each of the variety entries of the show.

The top three selections of each citrus variety win prize money. The Eron Wernecke Sweepstakes Award, a belt buckle, will be presented to the exhibitor amassing the most points based on his fruit entries on the point system, first, five points; second, three points; and third, one point.

On Saturday, Jan. 30, teams of students from all over the Rio Grande Valley will participate in the identification and judging contest. About 30 displays of fruit will be set up for identification and judging. Teams will first have to identify the type of fruit on the display. Then they have to judge the quality of the fruit they are seeing and rank them from best see YOUTH pg. 13

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to worst.

Alaniz explained that students see stacks of three whole fruits and a half of a fruit. They must look for uniformity, quality, bruises to rind and peels, and that the fruit is true to its type.

“Students are taught that biggest is not always best,” explained Alaniz. “If a piece of fruit is unusually large, it is not uniform to what is expected from that type of citrus.”

The identification and judging competition is divided by the age of the youth into sub-junior, junior and senior divisions. Awards include the first, second, and third place for top judging teams in each age group.

Winners in the entry division and judging will be announced Saturday afternoon. The Grand Champion fruit display receives $200, while the Reserve Grand Champion receives $100. In the judging and identification contest, teams receive plaques for first, second and third place, and high point individuals receive trophies.

In addition to the prizes listed above, the Mark Carpenter Memorial Scholarship for $500 is available to qualifying graduating seniors participating in the show.

The Citrus Youth Show Fruit Committee will have a sale throughout the day selling bags of grapefruit and oranges.

They will also have a tent fruit sale Saturday, Jan. 30, from 3 to 3:30 p.m. after the identification and judging contest has been completed. Everyone is invited to take part in the tent sale and get some of the world’s best citrus. Those who attend the citrus sale will be allowed to fill a bag with fruit used for judging for $2. All proceeds will go toward the premium monies awarded and youth scholarship programs.

The show is under the direction of Ruben Alaniz, Veterans Memorial High School ag teacher, who chairs the event, and other ag teachers from surrounding high schools. Alaniz will be assisted by Dr. Juan Anciso, Associate Professor and Extension Vegetable Specialist from the Texas Agri-Life Extension Service in Weslaco. Dr. Anciso finds the judges, and oversees tabulation of results to determine winners.

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Royal Coronation celebrates new Citrus King and Queen

By Kathy Olivarez Hear ye, hear ye! A Royal Coronation will be held for King Citrus, Queen Citrianna and Princess Anna.

The pomp and circumstance of the Texas Citrus Fiesta Royal Coronation hearkens back to an earlier day when kings and queens reigned and royal courts were honored with distinction. This year’s King Citrus and Queen Citrianna will reign over the annual celebration of citrus in Mission, Texas, but first, they must be crowned at the Royal Coronation to be held Thursday, January 28 at 7 p.m. at the Neuhaus Gym on the campus of Mission High School.

All citizens and subjects of the Kingdom of Citrus are invited to attend this auspicious occasion. Reserved tickets can be purchased in advance at the Citrus Fiesta office for $10 General admission seating is $5.

The event begins when the Royal Trumpeters step forth to herald the beginning of the grand ceremony. As Citrus Fiesta royalty, the Texas Citrus Fiesta ExKings will take their place on the stage of the court as they are introduced – before this year’s King Citrus is announced. Each man in the association is involved in the citrus industry and has served as king of the Texas Citrus Fiesta for one year. When the former kings are in place, King Citrus LXXIX will be announced, revealing the identity of the new king, which has been a closely guarded secret until the coronation. When the new king is introduced, the previous king, King Citrus LXXVIII, will crown his successor, passing his scepter to the new king. King Citrus LXXIX, will then take his place on the throne to reign over the Texas Citrus Fiesta celebration.

Next, is the much-anticipated coronation of Queen Citrianna LXXIX, Hailie Nicole Ciomperlik. Her rise to the throne is always announced one year in advance to allow her time to prepare her gorgeous gown for this royal occasion. Subjects of

the Kingdom of Citrus are awed as the beautiful queen approaches the stage in her stunning gown and train, followed by her Royal Train Bearers.

Another highlight of the evening is the coronation of Princess Anna and the introduction of the Tangerine Court – the sixyear-old princesses who always add charm and surprise to the evening’s celebration.

Following is this year’s Royal Court.

Queen Citrianna LXXIX Queen Citrianna LXXIX is Hailie Nicole Ciomperlik, the daughter of Stanley and Janice Ciomperlik of San Juan. She graduated from Pharr-San Juan-Alamo Early College High School in 2015 as salutatorian of her class. While in high school Hailie participated in student leadership and agricultural activities and held numerous leadership positions, including president of National Honor Society and FFA chapters. Hailie was 2015 Rio Grande Valley Livestock Show Covergirl, which she represented at the 2015 Texas Citrus Fiesta Coronation as Duchess of Green Pastures. She was the third young lady to hold the title of Queen Citrianna and RGVLS Covergirl. While in high school Hailie was awarded Monitor and Channel 5 Student of the Week and the title of Border Patrol Head of Class.

Hailie actively participates in community service and has accumulated over 400 hours of volunteer service. Her most recent service was at Doctors Hospital at Renaissance and at the Rio Grande Valley Livestock Show where she serves on the Open Boer Committee.

Hailie is now a student at Texas A&M University in College Station where she is majoring in biochemistry. She is an active member of the American Medical Student Association where she is on the committee for primary care services. Hailie hopes to further her education after graduation by see CORONATION pg. 16

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From pg. 14 attending medical school with the hope of becoming an anesthesiologist.

Klayton Daniel Arnold, son of Mrs. Ashley Gonzalez and Mr. Kyle Arnold will be serving as a royal trainbearer for Queen Citrianna LXXIX. Other trainbearers include Joaquin Cesar Castillo, son of Mr. and Mrs. Cesar Castillo of San Juan, Benito Garza Jr., son of Mr. and Mrs. Benito Garza of Mission, and David Eli Guardiola, son of Mr. and Mrs. Hugo Guardiola of Mission.

Joshua Thomas Wilkinson, son of Mr. and Mrs. Reece Wilkinson of Alton will serve as the Royal Crown Bearer at this year’s Coronation.

Next come the members of the Royal Court.

Princess of Grapefruit Blossom Victoria Jerine Burns, daughter of Charles Burns and Lorraine Burns, will serve as Princess of Grapefruit Blossoms.

She is a senior at Lyford High School where she is salutatorian of her class. She is also a RGV Leadership Student Ambassador, a member of the National Honor Society and Senior Class president. She was secretary of the Lyford FFA and an FFA Lone Star Record Book state finalist.

Her hobbies are cheerleading, participating in the Palm Valley Dance Club, where she had the lead role in the Coppelia Ballet, and in varsity sports, where she

was district champ participating in long jump, triple jump pole vault and 100-meter hurdle.

Princess of Orange Blossom Mykenzie Larayne Martinez, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Oscar Martinez of Mission, will serve as Princess of Orange Blossom. She is a freshman at South Texas College where she is studying to be a speech pathologist. She graduated from Veterans Memorial High School with DAP honors and dual enrollment credit hours.

She served as a cheerleader for three years, two as varsity co-head cheerleader. She was vice-president of Students Against Drugs and Alcohol as a senior.

Her hobbies are spending time with her family, and especially playing with her niece, Mia. Lady-in-Waiting Haley Jo Milam is this year’s Lady-in-Waiting. She is the daughter of Brian Milam and Jackie Milam of McAllen.

She is a senior at Veterans Memorial.

Haley is a three-year varsity track letterman, a member of DECA and has served as its president. She was named Miss South Texas Jr. Teen.

She enjoys working with Special Education students and is an active member of St. Paul’s Catholic Church.

Princess Anna Princess Anna will be Ariana Nicole Gomez, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Luis Marcos Gomez of Mission. She is a first grade student at Escobar Rios Elementary in Mission.

She enjoys being in gifted and talented classes and ballet at Deborah Case Dance Academy. Her hobbies are playing volleyball with the Boys & Girls Club.

Princess of Lemon Blossom Lillian Yvette Garza, daughter of Leopoldo “Polo” and Celeste Garza of Mission will serve as Princess of Lemon Blossom.

She is a student at Bryan Elementary where she is a gifted and talented student, an honor roll student and was the November Student of the Month. She enjoys being a Girl Scout Daily and loves playing and doing all kinds of outdoor activities.

Princess of Lime Blossom Amarissa Magali Castillo, daughter of Cesar and Magali Castillo of San Juan, will serve as Princess of Lime Blossom.

She is a kindergarten student at Cayetano Cavazos Elementary where she is on the “A” Honor Roll and perfect attendance.

Amarisa attends CCD classes at St. John the Baptist Church.

Princess of Tangerine Blossom Alanie Celest Rivera, daughter of Eduardo and Anita Rivera, will serve as Princess of Tangerine Blossom. She is a first grade student at John H. Shary Elementary where she is on the all “A” Honor Roll and has received Accelerated Reader Awards.

She is also an All Star National Cheerleading Champion.

Alanie loves to read and participate in CheerStrike All Star Cheer and tumbling.

Princess of Red Grapefruit Blossom Madeline Lesa-Lovell Flowers, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. T.J Flowers, of McAl-

len, will serve as Princess of Princess of Red Grapefruit Blossom. She is a first grade student at Milam Elementary in McAllen where she is a gifted and talented student, on the honor roll, and received the Open-minded Learner award Madeline enjoys taking dance lessons for ballet and hip-hop, and playing volley with the Razzle Dazzle Team.

Duchess of Bluebonnet Celeste J. Munoz, daughter of Lalo and Leticia Munoz will serve as Duchess of Bluebonnet. She is a senior at Mission High School. She has been a cheerleader for six years, and an All Star Cheerleader during her junior and senior years. She has been an M.C. Altar Server at St. Paul’s Catholic Church for eight years. Celeste’s hobbies are being co-head of the varsity cheerleaders during her senior year and taking part in cosmetology.

Martin Mikel Ochoa, son of Mr. and Mrs. Jesus Ochoa of Palmview, will serve as her page.

Duchess of Butterfly Eriza Eliza Saenz, daughter of Erica S. Rodriguez and Lydia Rodriguez of Mission will serve as Duchess of Butterfly.

She is a student at Veterans High School in Mission.

She enjoys participating in basketball and is a member of St. Peter and Paul’s Episcopal Church youth group. She enjoys reading and playing basketball.

Michael Vasquez, son of Mr. and Mrs. see CORONATION pg. 18

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From pg. 16 Isaac Vasquez, will serve as her page.

Duchess of Crepe Myrtle Giselle Olivarez, daughter of Thelma B. Olivarez of La Joya, will serve as Duchess of Crepe Myrtle. She is a senior at La Joya High School where she was nominated for Student of the Week. She will be graduating from high school with an associate degree from South Texas College. She was selected Miss Texas Perfect Teen.

Giselle’s hobbies include participating in the La Joya Jewelettes Drill Team and volunteering at Alfredo Gonzalez Texas State Veterans Home.

Brian Rodriguez, son of Carla Quintero of Palmview, will serve as her page.

Duchess of Delta Waters Dallas Anne Goldammer, daughter of Mark Goldammer and Dawn Goldammer of McAllen, will serve as Duchess of Delta Waters. She is a senior at McAllen Memorial High School where she is a dual enrollment Medical Science Academy member and a member of the National Honor Society. She is also a member of the Hidalgo County Cotillion.

Dallas’s hobbies are participating in 4-H and FFA and modeling.

Zachary Landon, son of Frank Lora and Stacey Andrade of Edinburg, will serve as her page.

Duchess of Honeydew Julissa Arianna Alvarez, daughter of Mr. Alex Alvarez and Ms. Melissa Cantu of Mission, will serve as Duchess of Honeydew. She is a sophomore at Mission High School. She was a Star Greenhand Runner-up in 2014-2015, and she advanced to State CDE’s for Dairy Cattle.

She also received a Division I Solo at Alamo City Dance/Drill Team Competition.

Julissa’s hobbies are serving as third Captain of the Mission High School High Flyers and serving as Sophomore Class President and on the Superintendent’s Student Advisory Council.

Doreyon Pina, son of Mr. and Mrs. Estevan Pina of Donna, will serve as her page.

Duchess of International Goodwill Karla Cantu, daughter of Mentor Cantu and Karla Cantu of Hidalgo, will serve as Duchess of International Goodwill. She is a junior at Hidalgo High School where she is a member of the National Honor Society and was named Defensive Volleyball and Basketball Player of the Year.

Karla’s hobbies include serving as a South Texas College student at Arbor View Nursing Home working as a Certified Nurse’s Assistant. She also enjoys all kinds of sports.

Jesse James Cantu, son of Mentor Cantu and Karla Cantu of Hidalgo will serve as her page. see CORONATION pg. 20

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From pg. 18 Duchess of Lantana Rosa Angelica Silva, daughter of Alfonso Silva and Rosa Maria Silva of Alton, will serve as Duchess of Lantana.

She is a senior at Veterans Memorial High School where she has earned her Certified Nursing Assistant certification. She was named as a First Team All District Basketball team member twice. She was named Miss Alton 2015-2016.

Rosa’s hobbies are playing varsity basketball and participant in Debi Lou Modeling.

Ruben Josiah Martinez, son of Luci Villarreal and Pedro Martinez of Mission will serve as her page.

Duchess of Lemon Celeste Ariana Tamez, daughter of Lt. Col. Carlos Tamez and Patricia Tamez of Weslaco, will serve as Duchess of Lemon.

She is a senior at Weslaco High School where she ranks seven of 439 students in her graduating class. She is a member of the Hall of Fame for WHS Cheerleaders.

She serves as National Honor Society secretary and was an FFA Traveler in 20142015, and NHI Head Coach.

Her hobbies are varsity cheerleading and being a dance student in ballet, tap, jazz, lyrical and hip-hop for the past 16 years.

Ethan Eugene Hoskins, son of Bryan and Arlene Hoskins of Weslaco will serve

as her page.

Duchess of Live Oak Amanda Cristina Salinas, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Oscar Salinas and Ana Salinas of Edinburg, will serve as Duchess of Live Oak. She is a junior at Edinburg North High School where she is a member of the National and Science Honor Societies, and a Hidalgo County 4-H Ambassador. She is a member of the Hidalgo County Cotillion.

Her hobbies include being an officer and a member of the Edinburg North FFA, Lantana 4-H, and Linn-San Manuel 4-H. Amanda’s hobbies include sewing and quilting blankets for charity.

Joel Cash Martinez, son of Joel and Kelly Martinez of Edinburg, will serve as her page.

Duchess of Mandarin Orange Veronica Teresa Rodriguez, daughter of Alejandro Rodriguez and Gilda Rodriguez of Mission, will serve as Duchess of Mandarin Orange. She is a senior at Pioneer High School in Sharyland where she is on the student council and serves as senior class president. He is a staff writer and photographer fort he Sharyland Pioneer High School Venom Paper.

Veronica enjoys participating with the Meeting in the Middle Class that helps students with special needs and playing the piano.

Gabriel Rodriguez, son of Mr. and see CORONATION pg. 22

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From pg. 20 Mrs. Alejandro Rodriguez of Mission will serve as her page.

Duchess Of Marsh White Grapefruit Ervn Nicole Sakulenzki, daughter of the late Joseph Sakulenzki and Deborah Sakulenzki of Mission, will serve as Duchess of Marsh White Grapefruit. She is a sophomore at Covenant Christian Academy where she is a Jr. national Young Leadership Council Alumni and an Envision Scholar. She received state commendations for biology and English end of the year exams, and was nominated for National Academy of Future Physicians and Medical Scientists Award of Excellence.

Eryn’s hobbies are modeling and coaching volleyball for middle school girls.

Riley Matthew Strong, son of Mr. and Mrs. Lamar Strong of Mission, will serve as her page.

Duchess of Oleander Alyssa Renee Bazan, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Vicente Ochoa Jr. of Mission, will serve as Duchess of Oleander. She is a sophomore at Shary Pioneer High School.

She was selected a UCA All American Cheerleader in 2014 and 2015 and was Junior Varsity Cheer Captain for 2015-2016.

Her hobbies are playing volleyball and softball.

Isaac Villegas Jr., son of Elaine Joyce

Solis of Mission, will serve as her page.

Duchess of Orange Adrianna Gavriella Pulido, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Jose Eloy Pulido of Edinburg, will serve as Duchess of Orange.

She is a junior at Robert Vela High School in Edinburg where she is in the top five percent of her class and has served three years as a class officer. She is a member of the Hidalgo County Cotillion and received the Miss Elegance Award in the Miss Edinburg Teen Pageant.

Arianna enjoys volunteering with Toys for Tots, Angels of Love and at the Edinburg Children’s Hospital. She is a threeyear UIL Prose and Poetry Captain.

Edgar Orlando Rodriguez, son of Mr. and Mrs. Humberto Rodriguez, Jr. of Mission, will serve as her page.

Duchess of Periwinkle Sara Maria Olivarez, daughter of Rosalinda Olivarez of Mission, will serve as Duchess of Periwinkle. She is a sophomore at the University of Texas-Rio Grande Valley.

Sara was selected as Borderfest Queen in 2016, served as Duchess of Butterfly in 2013 and enjoys acting in various UTRGV productions.

He hobbies are theater and working as a volunteer for Girl Scouts.

Daniel Izaiah Silva, son of Mr. and Mrs. Leo Silva of Rio Grande City, will serve as her page. see CORONATION pg. 23

Fiesta Souvenir Edition 2016 CORONATION

From pg. 22 Duchess of Pink Grapefruit Savannah Marie Rendon, daughter of Richard Romero III and Dee Rendon of McAllen, will serve as Duchess of Pink Grapefruit. She is a junior at Texas Tech University where she is a member of Phi Beta Kappa Society, the nations oldest academic society. She is a Texas Tech Student Ambassador for the Department of Kinesiology and Sports Management and a Texas Tech University Honors College Student Mentor.

Savannah’s hobbies include painting and sports like softball and golf.

Julio Alberto Cerda, son of Mr. and Mrs. Julio Cerda of Mission will serve as her page.

Duchess of Poinsettia Lydia Marie Montoya, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Orlando Montoya of Mercedes, will serve as Duchess of Poinsettia. She is a student at Mercedes Early College Academy.

Lydia was selected was selected as Miss Mercedes in 2015. She has served as varsity cheerleading for three years and was captain in 2014. She participated in state FFA competition forced in 20132014.

Her hobbies are being on Student Council and playing the violin in the orchestra.

Ruben Pena, son of Jenna Pena of Mercedes, will serve as her page.

Duchess of Retama Clarissa Gonzalez, daughter of Mary Gonzalez of Mission, will serve as Duchess of Retama. She is a senior at Thelma Salinas STEM Early College High School where she is listed in the top ten students.

She will graduate with an engineering associates degree in May 2016. She is president of the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers.

Clarissa’s hobbies are participating in UIL Math and Computer Science completion. She also enjoys being a Sunday School teacher.

Gael Veliz, son of Domingo Veliz and Magali Mena of Pharr, will serve as her page.

Duchess of Rio Red Grapefruit Christina Renee Reyna, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Eloy Reyna of Mission, will serve as Duchess of Rio Red Grapefruit.

She is a student at Veterans Memorial High School where she is on the A & B Honor Roll. She also received School Board recognition for perfect attendance and received a Lone Star Degree.

Christina’s hobbies are participating in FFA and girl’s basketball.

Devin Aaden Lerma, son of Mr. and Mrs. Marco Lerma of Mission will serve as her page.

Duchess of Ruby Red Grapefruit Bryceidee Leos, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Edgar Leos of Palmview, will serve as Duchess of Ruby Red Grapefruit. She is see CORONATION pg. 24

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Fiesta Souvenir Edition 2016 CORONATION

From pg. 23 a senior at Palmview High School where she has perfect attendance and is on the A&B Honor Roll.

Her hobbies include being a member of the senior class and being a cheerleader for the past five years.

Jorge Albert Gonzalez Jr., son of Mr. and Mrs. Jorge Gonzalez of Mission, will serve as her page.

Duchess of City of Mission Sister Cities Alexis Claris Pruneda, daughter of Servando Pruneda and Veronica De la Fuente of Mission, will serve as Duchess of City of Mission Sister Cities. She is a student at Sharyland High school where she participates in HOSA. Her hobbies are playing tennis and working at hospitals with HOSA. Ayden A. Rocha, Son of Veronica Garza and David Rocha of Mission will serve as her page.

Duchess of Star Ruby Grapefruit Emily Gonzalez Meza, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Emilio Meza of Mission will serve as Duchess of Star Ruby Grapefruit.

She is a junior at Mission Collegiate High School where she is on the A& B Honor Roll and has had dual enrollment at South Texas College for three years. She has received the Principal’s Award and was class parliamentarian hers sophomore year. She is vice-president of the film club and is a

member of the Fitness Club.

Emily’s hobbies include photography.

Joseph Tijerina, son of Claudia Tijerina, will serve as her page.

Duchess of Whitewing Leslie Marie Hernandez, daughter of Alicia Garcia of Mission, will serve as Duchess of Whitewing. She is a senior at Palmview High School where she has been a two-time national vocal finalist.

She was a 6A Mariachi State Champion in 2014-2015 and performed for President Obama at his inaugural.

Leslie’s hobbies are participating in the Math Honor Society and participating in Mariachi Los Lobos as a group leader and representative.

Robert Rodriguez, son of Mr. and Mrs. Robert Rodriguez of Mission, will serve as her page.

Duchess of Wildflower Natalia Nevarez, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Leonardo Nevarez of Mission, will serve as Duchess of Wildflower. She is a senior at Mission High School where she serves as 1st. Lieutenant of the Highflyers Dance and Drill Team. She is a fouryear cross-country regional qualifier. She is also a member of the hidalgo County Cotillion.

Natalia’s hobbies are participating with the High Flyers Dance and Drill Team and being a member of the Student Council.

Rick David Guzman, son of Maria Cassandra Garza and Rick Anthony Guzman of Mission will serve as her page.

Fiesta Souvenir Edition 2016

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Fiesta Souvenir Edition 2016

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Meet the Texas Citrus Fiesta Board of Directors Bill Filut, President 60th, and a son, Daniel Pena, along with 8

Bill Filut has served as a member of the Texas Citrus Fiesta Board of Directors for the last 28 years and has served as president of the board for 23 years. He works tirelessly year round to support the Fiesta. Not only does he assume many duties during the Fiesta and during the weeks leading up to the big events in January, he also works on the Fiesta throughout the year, even when no one else is thinking about the Citrus Fiesta. He devotes many hours of his time promoting the Texas Citrus Fiesta and the City of Mission by taking their traveling Royal Float to other festival parades around the state. He took over the Royal Float brigade in 1992 and has built and designed the Royal Float every year since. He has served as Parade Chairman for over 10 years and added the Vaquero Cook-Off to the Fiesta Fun Fair in 1999.

Bill has four children. He is an active member of the Mission Lions Club and Our Lady of the Holy Rosary Catholic Church.

Bill has been employed by the City of Mission since 2002.

Maria (Bibi) Pena, Director Bibi has been the director since 2015.

She worked every year with the Texas Citrus Fiesta part-time for 12 years, and she served as a volunteer for many years prior to that. She is married to Bernie Pena and they have two children: a daughter, Anna Medina, who is the former Queen Citrianna

grandchildren. She is a life-long resident of Mission and has always been involved with Texas Citrus Fiesta events either by volunteering, participating, or working the events.

As a director, she works tirelessly to ensure that the public will see a spectacular event.

Along with coordinating the events, she is also responsible for travel arrangements for the Royal Court for all out of town parades.

Oscar Martinez, 1st Vice-President Oscar Martinez has been a Fiesta board member for 15 years and serves as first vice president. He enjoys working on the parade route, handling the marching units and bands. Oscar and his wife Missye have three daughters. Morgan, the eldest, served as Princess Anna in 1999 and was crowned Queen Citrianna in 2010. Their second daughter Mariah was selected as Princess Anna in 2002 and served as Duchess of Grain Sorghum in 2012. Their youngest daughter, Mykenzie, served as Princess of Lemon Blossom in 2004, Duchess of Rio Red in 2015, and is this year’s Princess of Orange Blossom in the Royal Court. Missye, was Princess Anna in 1972.

Oscar served on the Mission CISD Board of Trustees for 10 years. He is employed by Superior Health Plan as a network specialist. Oscar and his family are members of Calvary Baptist Church.

Buster Brown, 2nd Vice- President see BOARD OF DIRECTORS pg. 27

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Fiesta Souvenir Edition 2016

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

From pg. 26 Buster Brown has been a part of the 8board of directors for 23 years, currently fserves as second vice-president and has hbeen involved with the Texas Citrus Fiesta -for 27 years. He and his wife Nancy enjoy .being a part of the Parade Committee every year. Buster has in the past helped with the .Entertainment Committee for the Fun Fair sand shares his marketing skills with the Firesta director. Buster is a member of Trinity Episcopal Church.

Nancy Chapa Nancy Chapa has been a member of the tFiesta board of directors for eight years. She ehas two children. Her daughter, Alexandria, swas Princess Anna in 2004 and Duchess of eBougainvillea in 2015. She has served as dFun Fair chairman and currently serves as Parade Concession co-chairman. She endjoys volunteering in the office and at Corosnation. During the busiest time in the Fiesta foffice you will also find her sister and nephews volunteering. She has a B.A in Anthropology and Sociology and is a professional make-up artist. Nancy is a member of Holy Spirit Catholic Church.

Brian Gerlach Brian Gerlach, has been a board member for 10 years, but has been involved with ythe Fiesta for most of his life. He has helped -decorate floats and volunteers with the Fifesta BBQ Brigade along the parade route.

He has also spent numerous hours helping his mom, Mary Virginia Gerlach, collect and process citrus and agricultural products to create costumes for the Product Costume

Show. Brian is married to Cori and they have four children, Kaylee, Weston, Makenzie and Brett. All four have modeled costumes as well as taken part in the Royal Coronation festivities. Kaylee and Makenzie have been members of the Royal Court, and Weston and Brett have both served as Royal Crown Bearers. Brian works for Genco Energy Services.

Keith Gerlach Keith Gerlach is going on his fourth year as a board member, but has been a part of Fiesta, assisting his father with the Fiesta Parade of Oranges, since elementary school.

This year as in the past, he will work alongside his mother, Barbara, with the Product Costume Show and Coronation stage preparations and is also involved with the staging of the parade line-up. Keith works on his barbecue rig on the parade route with the help of his wife, Roxie, and their two boys, Chase and Cole, who have both served as Royal Crown and Train Bearers. He is a member of the Mission Lions Club and the family attends Iglesia Primera Bautista.

Scott Gerlach Scott Gerlach has served on the Texas Citrus Fiesta board for ten years. Like his brother, Brian, he has been involved with the Fiesta “since the cradle.� He and his family work their barbecue rig at the Parade of Oranges. Scott and his wife, Marissa, have two sons, Kyle and Zachary. Kyle and Zachary have served as Royal Crown Bearers and both both boys have modeled at the Product Costume Shows. Scott is self-employed and runs Jaguar Hydrostatic Testing. see BOARD OF DIRECTORS pg. 28

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Fiesta Souvenir Edition 2016 BOARD OF DIRECTORS

From pg. 27 Nora Hinojosa Nora Hinojosa currently serves as a member of the Fiesta Board of Directors and as Coronation chairman. She has been a volunteer for over 19 years. Nora and her husband, Zaragoza, have four children.

All three daughters have been on the Texas Citrus Fiesta Royal Court. Sarah was Queen Citrianna in 2003. Melissa served as Princess of Grapefruit Blossom and Kathryn served as Princess of Orange Blossom.

Their son Marc served as a Royal Page. Her entire family continues to support the Texas Citrus Fiesta. The family attends St. Paul’s Catholic Church.

Lisa Rivera Lisa Rivera, a graduate of Mission High School, attended the University of Texas Pan American where she received her Bachelor’s Degree in Spanish with a minor in English. Her previous employment includes MCISD, La Joya ISD and PSJA ISD. She was previously employed by the City of Pharr where she held professional positions as the Children’s Librarian, Assistant Director and Interim Library Director. She is currently employed by the City of Mission as Speer Memorial Library’s Children’s Librarian.

She is a former member of the Pharr Kiwanis Club, has served as Chairperson for Pharr Fall Festival events, and has volunteered at half way homes for teens, Teen Moms Shelter, United Way and the Texas Citrus Fiesta. She is married to Rene Rivera and has three wonderful children, Eddie,

Alex and Priscilla Rivera.

Minnie Rodgers Minnie Rodgers has volunteered with the Texas Citrus Fiesta for many years and has been a board member for 24 years. She has served as chairperson for the Product Costume Show and Coronation. This year she will serve as Fun Fair Chairman. She works on the parade route and helps with the Royal Coronation. Minnie is retired from teaching at Mission CISD and now serves on the Mission CISD Board of Trustees. She is the mother of one daughter, Diane, and stays busy helping with her three grandchildren.

Minnie is a member of the Catholic Daughters of the Americas, is a past-president of the Mission Lions Club and is now a member of the new Mission Sunset Lions Club.

She attends St. Paul’s Catholic Church, where she serves as a Eucharistic Minister.

Ricardo (Rick) Saldaña A lifetime resident of Mission, Rick Sal-b daña is married to Mellie H. Saldaña. Re-a tired from Mission Fire Department whereS he served proudly for over 30 years, heo served Mission as Fire Chief for several( years before retiring. He is currently servinga as the Emergency Management Coordina-M tor for the county of Hidalgo. ThroughoutC the years Rick has been a proud supporter ofs the Texas Citrus Fiesta. This year he is serv-l ing as chairman for the Vaquero Cook-off.

Janie Sanchez Janie Sanchez is a 1976 graduate ofe Mission High School. She was employedI with the City of Mission from 1980 to 2015t when she retired. Mrs. Sanchez is a mem-H d see BOARD OF DIRECTORS pg. 29 o

Fiesta Souvenir Edition 2016

Children carry on Fiesta tradition

One of the coolest ways school children can be part of the Texas Citrus Fiesta tradition is by entering the Shoebox Float Competition. This event was added eight years ago and has become popular with the children. The Shoebox Float Competition teaches those who participate how to create a miniature float – from concept to final product. In addition to learning how to plan and execute a project, the students learn how to follow directions, adhering to contest rules and the current year’s Fiesta theme. see SHOEBOX pg. 30

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

From ber at Our Lady of Holy Rosary Church and volunteers with various activities there.

She also volunteers her time at Our Lady of Guadalupe Church Hospitality Center (Food Pantry). She was recently elected as a board member for the Texas Citrus Fiesta.

Mrs. Sanchez has assisted with the Vaquero Cook-off and other Citrus Fiesta events for several years. Born in Mission, she is a valley native and has two adult children.

Sylvia Olivarez Vick Sylvia Olivarez Vick is currently an employee for the Mission Consolidated Independent School District as a substitute teacher. She is a 1986 graduate of Mission High School, and received her bachelor’s degree in social work from the University of Texas-Pan American. As a social worker

pg. 28 she worked for the City of Mission Housing Authority until her departure to Nevada, where she taught Pre-K for Nevada’s Clark County Economic Program. She returned to the Valley in 1997. When Sylvia is not working, she volunteers her time with various organizations in the community, including Holy Rosary Church, Mission Historical Museum, Mission Jr. High, Girl Scouts, and the Salvation Army. She also serves as treasurer for Friends of the Library Club at Speer Memorial Library. She was recently elected as a board member for the Texas Citrus Fiesta and she assisted with the Product Costume Show and other Citrus Fiesta events. She currently resides in Mission with her husband, their teenage children, and four rescued pets.

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Fiesta Souvenir Edition 2016 SHOEBOX

From pg. 29 In 2016, the Texas Citrus Fiesta will again host the annual Shoebox Float Competition, which is open to all students in fourth and fifth grade in the La Joya, Mission and Sharyland School Districts. The top three winning floats from each grade level in each district will be entered and compete for first, second and third place at Speer Memorial Library.

Entries were turned in to Lisa Rivera at Speer Memorial Jan. 14. They were judged on Friday, Jan. 15, and the winners were announced on Jan. 16 at the Product Costume Show. During the Fiesta Fun Fair, the shoebox floats will be on display.

After the Fiesta is over, the first, second and third place winners will be on display at Speer Memorial Library.

The float that wins first place will receive a prize of $100 plus $100 for the librarian of the school to use for campus needs. The second place float winner will receive $75 while the third place float winner will receive $50.

Each shoebox float entered must represent the current Texas Citrus Fiesta theme, “Citrus, Cartoons & Comic Book Characters.� The floats must be made from cardboard shoe boxes that are 10 to 12 inches in length, four to six inches wide and four to five inches deep. All visible parts of the see SHOEBOX pg. 31

Fiesta Souvenir Edition 2016

SHOEBOX

From pg. 30 shoebox must be covered with product or decoration.

Over 50 percent of the shoebox must be covered with products grown in the Valley. The product can be use as it is or dehydrated, dried, or carved. No fresh fruit will be allowed. Use of craft store items will not be counted in 50 percent usage. Citrus by-products must be used somewhere on the float.

The criteria for judging is 35 percent

for design or adherence to the theme and creativity; 35 percent for workmanship including construction, neatness and material used; 20 percent for use of Valley products including citrus; and 10 percent for overall appeal. Winning entries will become property of the Texas Citrus Fiesta.

Chairpersons for this event designed to involve school children in the Texas Citrus Fiesta, now in its eighth year, are Anne Whitfield, Marilu Saenz, and Liza Ramirez.

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Fiesta Souvenir Edition 2016

A Queen’s Farewell

That night, last January, I remember thinking I was being summoned to wait on the Queen when I heard the words, “Lady-in-Waiting.” But then it sunk in and I realized that I was to be Queen Citrianna LXXVIII. Talk about excited! To someday be the queen had been my goal since I was 6 years old and my dream had finally come to pass. It has been quite a journey but every moment has been precious to me. Tonight I am on this stage again because my year is done.

Since this is my last and best time to say my thank you’s, I’d like to begin with the Texas Citrus Fiesta for offering me this marvelous opportunity to be a part of Valley history and represent an organization that means so much to me. Thank you Bill, Bernie, the Citrus Fiesta staff and especially Bibi for my beautiful crown and scepter, your dedication to the Fiesta, and for always treating me like royalty.

To King Citrus, Mr. Jim Hoffman, thanks for keeping me company at all our parades. It was such a pleasure to meet you and Mrs. Hoffman.

To my Royal Court, Adrianna, Alexa and Mariah, Thank you, thank you for doing this with me.

To the Tangerine Court, Carolina, Alexis, Amanda, Kylie and dear Mia, I sincerely hope that you all will have fond memories of your year, and hope you all plan to be duchesses 10 years from now.

What a privilege to meet all of you and your families! It’s important to me that you had as good of a time as my Mom and I did. I wish it could go on for another year! But it’s Hailie’s turn now. As Queen Citrianna LXXIX, she will carry on with this beautiful tradition.

My first and last crowns have been Citrus Fiesta crowns, but of all the crowns I’ve won, and all the honors awarded me over the years, the experience of being Queen Citrianna the LXXVIII, ranks among the best!

And Berta, I know you are watching… we miss you!

All my Texas Love, Rachel Christine Tunberg

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Fiesta Souvenir Edition 2016

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Fiesta Souvenir Edition 2016

King Citrus LXXVIII Jim Hoffman bids farewell

I feel very honored to have been chosen by the Texas Citrus Fiesta Kings Association to serve as King Citrus LXXVIII and I am very proud to have represented the Texas Citrus Industry for the past year. I have been around citrus all my life as my father and grandfather were both citrus growers.

My grandfather came to the Valley in 1919 on one of John H. Shary’s land excursions.

The coronation ceremony was very memorable, especially the crowning of Queen Citrianna, LXXVIII Rachel Tunburg, and Princess Anna Mia Isabella Ayala, and the presentation of all the Duchesses and Princesses I was very impressed not only with the beauty of the Duchesses and of their ball gowns, but by the talent and the accomplishments of all these young women.

Each of the six parades that Queen Citrianna and I, along with the Royal Court, participated in as representatives of the Texas citrus industry were unique. It was heartwarming to have the people lining the parade routes wave back and cheer as we passed by.

I want to thank Bibi Pena, Bill Filut and their team for their hard work and the efforts they put into all of the events, and to thank the Texas Citrus Fiesta Board and the Kings’ Association for continuing this tradition.

Sincerely, Jim Hoffman King Citrus LXXVIII

Fiesta Souvenir Edition 2016 Ag Commissioner to speak at Mayor’s Brunch

By Kathy Olivarez Texas’ new Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller will be keynote speaker at the Texas Citrus Fiesta Mayor’s Brunch on Saturday, Jan. 30. The annual brunch is by invitation only and will honor Mission’s Sister Cities in Mexico who come to enjoy the Texas Citrus Fiesta.

Miller brings a wealth of knowledge to the Texas Department of Agriculture and is recognized as one of the state’s most effective and conservative leaders and defenders of constitutional freedoms.

According to Deputy City Manager Aida Lerma, no new Sister Cities will be signed this year. However, representatives from current Sister Cities are expected to attend the brunch along with designated city officials, members of city-appointed committees and members of local businesses who are invited. There will also be representatives from surrounding communities participating in the brunch.

Representatives are from Sister Cities who have signed agreements with Mission over a 19-year period. They include Fernando Adame Doria, Linares, Nuevo Leon, (1993); Alejandro Etienne Llano, Cd. Victoria, Tamaulipas (1998); Gonzalo Elizondo Lira, Salinas Victoria, Nuevo Leon (2004); and Arturo Davalos Pena, Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco (2005).

Others include Silverio Manuel Flores Leal, Allende, Nuevo Leon (2007); Mario de la Garza Garza, San Fernando, Tamaulipas (2007); Clara Luz Flores Carrales, General Escobedo, Nuevo Leon, (2008);

Mario Alberto Neri Castillo, CD. Madero, Tamaulipas (2007); and Paul Michell Carrillo de Caceres, Benito Juarez, Quintana Roo (2009).

Additional representatives of Mexican Sister Cities include Joe Santiago Preciado Robles; Cadereyta Jimenez, Nuevo Leon (2010); and Nicolas Enrigue Corona, Casimiro Castillo, Jalisco (2010); Jose Luis Lopez Gutierrez, Villa del Carbon, Estado de Mexico (2012); Jose Luis Hernandez Castrellon, Valle Hermoso, Tamaulipas (2013); Gerardo Garcia Castillo, Monclova, Coahuila (2013); and Jose Angel Castro Rojo, Angostura, Sinoloa (2013).

Also coming are Gerardo Javier Trevino Rodriguez, Monte Morelos, Nuevo Leon (2014); David Gustavo Flores Lavenant, Francisco I. Madero, Coahuila (2015); and Agapito Magana Sanchez, Isla Mujeres, Quintana Roo (2015).

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Fiesta Souvenir Edition 2016 Vaqueros were essential to early Texas ranches

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By Kathy Olivarez When Jose de Escandon rode along the Rio Grande River in 1749 in anticipation of colonizing both sides of the river, he immediately noticed the land on the north side of the river was higher than the land on the south. While the south side could use the river to irrigate crops, it would be impossible to irrigate the north side because the water would not run against the flow of gravity.

Escandon declared the north side of the river would be used for large haciendas or ranches where cattle raised for food would be run. Long thing ranches called porciones were cut along the river. Each was about five-eighths of a mile wide and as long as 17 miles. With barbed wire yet to be invented, large cattle herds roamed freely in the grasslands and scrub brush that moved into the area with the cattle.

It took a lot of vaqueros or Mexican cowboys to manage these herds of cattle. The vaqueros spent days riding the ranchlands,

looking for cattle and branding them with their owner’s ranch brand. It was impossible to return to the main ranch every day for meals. So chuck wagons were developed as the first “takeout meals” by taking food and cooking it wherever the vaqueros worked.

Foods had to be stable so they would not spoil. Beans were the most prevalent food.

Salt pork or dried beef served in the beans see VAQUEROS pg. 37

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Fiesta Souvenir Edition 2016

VAQUEROS

From pg. 36 or as a side, was the most commonly used meat. Fresh meat was rare but once in awhile the trail boss gave permission for an animal to be killed. Or a deer or wild boar roaming the area might make a tasty meal.

Since there were no stoves on the chuck wagons food had to be cooked over an open fire or in a fire pit. Dutch ovens were used for making the Pan de campo in Mexican tradition or biscuits in American tradition, which served as the bread for vaqueros and cowboys who roamed early South Texas.

Beans would be cooked in a Dutch oven or in a black iron pot over the open fire.

The chuck wagon might also be stocked with canned goods like tomatoes and peaches. While the tomatoes could be added to the beans along with bacon and spices to create Charro beans, peaches and canned fruit were used to make cobblers as a special treat on the trail.

Today over 250 years after these traditions got started in South Texas; cook-offs are a common way of celebrating that history. The annual Texas Citrus Fiesta Vahquero Cook-off will be held Saturday, Jan. -30, at Rotary Park adjacent to the Leo Pena r“Placita” Park in downtown Mission where sthe annual Fun Fair will be held. d Approximately 12 to 15 cooking teams .are expected to be competing in the event. tCowboys will be competing cooking trail .camp foods like pan de campo, pork ribs, sfajitas, beans and peach cobbler. None of the teams are expected to sell foods but

lucky visitors might be able to talk some of the cooks out of a bite or two when they visit their camps.

Judging of the food items cooked over hot coals or on an open fire will begin at 1 p.m. and continue every 30 minutes until all foods have been judged. No gas grills are allowed. In addition to the taste and quality of their foods, the teams will be judged on their citrus presentation.

Visitors who walk through the annual Texas Citrus Fiesta Fun Fair being held around the amphitheater will find themselves wandering over to “see what is cooking” and hopefully get a sample of it. The smells will make them hungry to want to try the trail foods of the old days.

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Fiesta Souvenir Edition 2016

5K Fiesta Fun Run is Jan. 30

Get out those running shoes and join the fun at the Texas Citrus Fiesta 5K Fun Run. The 5K run and a one-mile walk will be held at the Mission Hike & Bike Trail, located south of the Expressway 83 on Conway Avenue, Saturday, January 30. The race starts at 8 a.m. Both the race and walk will be completely offroad for safety.

George Chapa, with Mission Parks and Recreation, says anyone wishing to participate in either event can register until Jan. 27 at the Mission Parks and Recreation offices located at 721 N. Bryan Road between the hours and 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. There will be late registration the day of the event beginning at 7 a.m. at the site. The registration fee is $20 for adults and $10 for youth. Add $5 to each category for late registration.

Medals will be awarded to winners in each age division for first, second and third places. Others will get participation ribbons. The first 100 to register will get a T-shirt. For more information call the Mission Parks and Recreation Department at (956) 580-8760.

Texas Citrus Fiesta Movers and Shakers

Every year, a dedicated group of people put in long hours to plan, organize and deliver each of the Texas Citrus Fiesta events that has become such an important part of the tradition and heritage of Mission. While there are far too many volunteer workers to mention, here are some of the key people who chair committees for the Fiesta events.

Continuing the family tradition, Bibi Pena, accepted the monumental job as executive director of the Texas Citrus Fiesta last year to replace her sister, the late Berta Filut. Bibi, who has worked tirelessly as a Fiesta volunteer for many years, has been putting in long hours to see that all of the details come together. Her dedication to and love for the Citrus Fiesta shines brightly as she labors relentlessly making sure hundreds of details are tended to, maintaining the high standards that continue to make the Texas Citrus Fiesta one of Texas’ best celebrations each year.

Fiesta Barbecue No fiesta would be complete without the famous Fiesta Barbecue that is sold each year along the parade route. This year, the cooking team will surely miss see SHAKERS pg. 39

Fiesta Souvenir Edition 2016

SHAKERS

From pg. 38 the camaraderie and expertise of Don Lester who passed away recently. Lester is a former King Citrus, who served on the Fiesta board for more than 20 years, serving as president several times. For the last countless number of years he has served as the Fiesta Barbecue chairman, preparing that wonderful, traditional Fiesta barbecue that Mission families have enjoyed at the parade year after year.

Continuing the barbecue tradition this year will be Scott, Keith, Brian and Shawn Gerlach. But not to worry, the Gerlachs are old hands at cooking delicious Fiesta barbecue, having served on the committee for years. They know all of Don’s secrets about how to prepare that delicious, tender, melt-in-your mouth barbecue that everyone enjoys.

They are joined each year by a great team of volunteers who help each year with the barbecue and serving. Tell them thanks when you enjoy that tasty barbecue this year.

Royal Coronation The Coronation of the King and Queen of the Texas Citrus Fiesta, along with Princess Anna and the Royal Court is a grand event where duchesses – girls from all across the Rio Grande Valley – vie to be named the next Queen Citrianna. The duchesses wear formal ball

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gowns representing agricultural products grown in the Valley. The selection and coordination of these young ladies, overseeing the gowns they choose and putting the actual coronation together is a yearlong project. This year’s Coronation chairwomen are Nora Hinojosa, Kristina Silva and Janie Sanchez. They are assisted by the Texas Citrus Fiesta office staff and volunteers.

Fiesta Fun Run The annual Texas Citrus Fiesta Fun Run is under the jurisdiction of the Mission Parks and Recreation Department.

Again this year it was planned under the guidance of Jorge Chapa.

Fiesta Fun Fair The Texas Citrus Fiesta Fun Fair has long been a part of festivities – since the early 1980’s when Dennis Holbrook served as Citrus Fiesta president. The Fun Fair provides fun, family-friendly activities for adults and children, live music, crafts, food vendors and other traditions that make a community fair not just a fun place to visit, but an important part of the tradition of the community and many of her families. This year’s chairwoman is Minnie Rodgers.

Vaquero Cook-off The Vaquero Cook-off is another annual event that everyone looks forward to as the savory aroma of the meat and see SHAKERS pg. 40

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Fiesta Souvenir Edition 2016 SHAKERS

From pg. 39 other goodies cooking over a campfire adds to the pleasure of the Fun Fair. This year, Rick SaldaĂąa is the new chairman in charge of the Vaquero Cook-off.

Parade of Oranges The Texas Citrus Fiesta Parade of Oranges is the premier event of the Fiesta each year. As many as 100,000 spectators line the parade route each year to view the parade marshals, citrus covered floats, bands, clowns, children from various organizations, cars with local celebrities and dignitaries, convertibles carrying the duchesses and a host of other entries. It is no small feat to organize such a large parade. Bill Filut will be organizing the parade again this year with the welcomed assistance of Larry and Joyce Hildebrand.

Parade Concessions From balloons to cotton candy, popcorn and other good-to-eat treats, parade-goers often enjoy these as well as the lighted necklaces, wands and a host of children’s trinkets sold along the parade route. But someone has to keep it organized and make sure the items sold are safe. This task falls to Alma Hinojosa, Nancy Chapa and Nora Hinojosa.

Product Costume Show Organizing the Product Costume Show is a significant challenge that re-

quires skillful planning each year. It is a major effort to get designers to commit to make costumes, and this must be done well in advance because materials used to make the costumes must be gathered all throughout the year. It also means helping new designers learn the techniques needed to make successful costumes. To encourage future generations of product costume designers, the Fiesta sponsors workshops, passing down the secrets of award-winning costume designers of the past and present. Barbara Gerlach has been very successful in helping continue this important Fiesta tradition, and is in charge of this grand event again this year, assisted by Sylvia Vick and Rosie Olivarez, talented costume designers who have been working hard to continue the tradition.

Royal Ball and Reception The Texas Citrus Fiesta Kings Association and the Texas Citrus Fiesta plan the annual Royal Ball and Reception.

Each year the Ex-Kings introduce the duchesses who are making their first appearances in their elegant ball gowns to those attending the reception.

Fiesta Shoe Box Float Competition One of the newer aspects of the Texas Citrus Fiesta is the Shoe Box Float Competition, where children in fourth and fifth grades are given an opportunisee SHAKERS pg. 41

Fiesta Souvenir Edition 2016

SHAKERS

From pg. 40 ty to decorate a shoebox float. They are taught to use materials like those used to decorate costumes for the Texas Citrus Fiesta Product Costume Show based on the Fiesta’s theme for the year. Lisa Rivera, Marilu Saenz and Sylvia Vick join Anne Whitfield this year in organizing this event that inspires our youth to be part of this community celebration.

Everyone Of course, some of the greatest highlights of the Texas Citrus Fiesta are the results of many, many people who catch the spirit and decide to pitch in. The floats in the parade are all designed and built by volunteers. The beautiful product costumes are created by creative individuals who devote many hours of volunteer service to continue the tradition.

And the list goes on and on. Schools, churches, organizations and businesses all take part. It takes the whole community working together to make the Citrus Fiesta what it is.

Thank you Fiesta committee chairs, committee members, volunteers and everyone who takes part in the Citrus Fiesta in any way. Thank you for bringing us this wonderful celebration each year.

Parade Street Closures

The Texas Citrus Fiesta Parade of Oranges, to be held Saturday, Jan. 30, will again this year travel from north to south along Conway Avenue. The parade will begin at FM 495 (Griffin Parkway) and end at 4th Street. However, Conway Avenue will be closed not only along the parade route, but also between 2 Mile Line and FM 495, as this will be the parade lineup area where all the floats and parade entries will gather prior to the start of the parade.

Conway Avenue will be closed from 1 p.m. until the end of the parade, from 2 Mile Line to the Expressway. By 12 p.m. or sooner, all cross streets of Conway will be closed, except for Griffin Parkway, Kika de la Garza, 6th Street and 1st Street. Those streets will be closed at 2 p.m.

Watch for complete

Citrus Fiesta Coverage in the Progress Times

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Texas Citrus Fiesta Carnival offers thrills

Get ready for the thrills and chills offered by carnival rides when the annual Texas Citrus Fiesta carnival opens on Jan. 21. The carnival is sponsored

by Heart of America Carnivals. Whether it be old-time rides like Ferris wheels, a ride on the OMG gravity ride thought to be the scariest ride in the carnival, or the kiddie rides, there will be something for everyone.

The carnival will be held Thursday, Jan. 21 through Feb. 1. It is located just north of the intersection of FM 495 and Conway Avenue. According to J.J. Moreno, carnival manager, admission bracelets for the rides are $20 per person. The carnival will open Thursday at 6 p.m. and run to 10 p.m. On parade day, Saturday, Jan. 30, it will open at 2 p.m. and stay open until 11 p.m.

Fiesta Souvenir Edition 2016

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