Texas Border Business
LAREDO, Texas – Red Ribbon Campaign kicked off for Martin High School on Wednesday, October 11, 2023. The pep rally ceremony included students, teachers, staff, community leaders, and organizations. Communities across the United States gather yearly to prevent drug abuse in schools, work places, and local communities by imparting education and promoting awareness; and what was once celebrated for a week has turned into a month-long celebration involving educational efforts in October.
The Webb County Community Coalition recognizes every year an individual and an organization that works on a daily basis with individuals on the brink of or already experiencing drug abuse. Named after former DEA Agent Enrique “Kiki” Camarena whom died in the line of duty in 1984 while working in Mexico, the awardrecognizes significant impacts towards creating a drug free community. The award has locally honored Enrique “Kiki” Camarena’s life, work, and memory, every year since 2008. The 2023 award recipient is the Webb County Court-at-Law II DWI Court Program. Judge Victor Villarreal who presides over the DWI Court accepted the award.
While accepting the award, Judge Villarreal told students, “We are happy with our work and efforts; but we are not satisfied. There is so much more work to do, many more lives to reach, and this war on drugs continues.” Judge Villarreal added, “Fortunately, we succeed by working together. We do not to lock people up and throw the key away. We collaborate with agencies to help DWI offenders attain sobriety, turning them into productive, sober members of our beloved community.” DWI Court team members present representing their respective agencies were: Victor Vasquez, III, DWI Court Director; Freddy Cordova, Jr., DWI Court Case Manager; Alexandra Reyes, DWI Court Assistant Manager; Esperanza Ramirez, Adult Probation Officer; Nancy Sandoval, Karla Vela, and Abraham Diaz, SCAN counselors; Estella Rodriguez, Attorney; Sheriff Martin Cuellar; and Jose Espinoza and Joe Baeza, Laredo Police Department.
Additional information is available from Victor Vasquez III, Webb County Court-at-Law II DWI Court Program Director, via 956/523-4818 or vvasquez@webbcountytx.gov.
