DTEX 2024.001-5-1 Legacies, 2010-2022 I
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Denton LULAC
Librada "Lily" Rose Cantu
Dr. G. Roland Vela
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Denton LULAC #4366
Honors the Legacy
Of
Librada "Lily" Rose Cantu
October 20, 1990 —November 04, 2010
Librada Like My Abuelita
My name means liberty and it is warm. It's delicious like soft, fresh sopapillas
with honey from your neighbor's land on the other side of the county. It's like the first
springtime breeze you feel on your cheeks when you think you've had just about enough
of these cold and rainy winter days. It's like when your papa makes 7ur favorite meal of
tacos y frijoles con queso after a long day at school. It's like the smell of your Abuelita's
sweater after she's been gone for years. It's the comfort you get from knowing she's there.
with you, in the sweater. After all, it's her name too.
My name is beautiful. Not everyone knows that though. When I tell them what
my real name is,they ask me to say it again. Then they'll try it out. It doesn't work on
their tongues though. It doesn't flow from their lips like the honey from your neighbor's
land on the other side of the county. So I tell them don't worry, call me Lily. I like that
name, Lily. But it's not my real name, because it's not like the smell'of my Abuelita's
sweater. Lily is more like the perfume some old gringa sprays on her sweaters so they'll
smell good, even though her own smell is pretty nice as it is. It's the cover, because not
everyone sees and smells the goodness. Lily is common. It is who I am to many, but not
to those who.matter the most. To them I am Librada, which means liberty and smells like
my Abuelita's sweater when I am sad. I am Librada who is my Abuelita,even though she
knows me only through her view down on Earth from her place on Jesus' lap. I am
Librada who is like my dad's mama, who I only know through the sweater that smells
like my name and is like a springtime breeze. I am Librada who is my Abuelita who
made the best sopapillas with the honey from not across the county, but across the border.
I am Librada which means liberty and is warm like my Abuelita and her sweater.
We will not try to explain the inexplicable.Even
the facts are sketchy at this point;the meaning
Dentongraduate dies after behind them is beyond our understanding and
is likely to remain so.
What we do know is that Librada"Lilly"Cantu,a
failin2009 g from roof in Peru graduate of Denton High School,fell to her death
last week in the Chaclacayo district of Peru,where she
By Britney Tabor
was on a mission for the Catholic Church.
Staff Writer High,said that she would She was 20 years old.
light up a room when she We did not know Lilly Cantu personally,but there are
An accident claimed the life of a entered it and was some- some things we can assume about her from the article
Denton High School graduate this week one people noticed. about her death by the Record-Chronicle's Britney Tabor.
in Peru. She said Cantu was a A photograph accompanying the article shows a
Librada"Lilly"Cantu,who was serving good student, a high young woman with bright eyes and a captivating smile.
with Catholic Mission in Peru, fell from school Student Council yes,beauty is only skin deep,and the camera can indeed
the third-story roof of San Francisco de member and pursued
Asis,a shelter in the Chaclacayo district, Cantu her certified nursing lie,but it is hard to fake the intelligence in a young girl's
Peruvian media outlets reported. She assistant certification through a health eyes or the radiance of a young girl's smile.We think we
was 20. science tech class. know a lot about Lilly Cantu just from looking at that
It was unclear when the accident She said Cantu also loved working picture.
occtured. with children at Immaculate Conception Her school counselor,Doretha Hudspeth,confirmed a
School district officials on Friday said Catholic Church,where she was a mem- lot of what that picture told us.
that upon graduating fi•om Denton High ber. "She just enjoyed helping other people,"Hudspeth
School in 2009,Cantu postponed college "She just enjoyed helping other peo- said."When she talked about it,her face just lit up"
to work with the mission in Peru. ple,"Hudspeth said."When she[Cantu] It is clear that helping other people was important to
School officials remembered Cantu as talked about it,her face just lit up:' Librada Cantu,and it is clear,too,where she got her
a compassionate young woman who She said that she will remember Cantu commitment to serve others. Her mother,Barbara
Doretha Hudspeth, who was Cantu's smile.
loved fife. as someone who was never without a Cantu,is a second-grade teacher at Newton Rayzor
counselor when she was a student at _ Elementary School,and her sister,Kathleen Reichel,
Rivera Elementary School and Denton See CANTU on 7A teaches English as a second language at Lee Elementary
School.(A second sister,Marianna Cantu,is a sopho-
more at Denton High.)It is natural that Lilly Cantu grav-
itated to a life of service; her mother and one of her sis-
ters had already devoted their lives to just about the
greatest service a person can give—teaching.
• At a time in her life when most young people are busi-
`\J ly preparing for careers in college or in their first jobs,
��
Ok
Lilly had volunteered for a church mission in Peru,a rare
S commitment for a bright young high school graduate
• �� with an even brighter future ahead.She served not only
` e O the people in that South American country,but those at i
home too.00Through the Internet she was reporting regu-
larlyg P
to her mother's second-graders about life in Peru,
pand about how a life of service can make a difference in
^� V the lives of others.This was more than just an informal
G stream of e-mails;the correspondence was part of
Newton Rayzor's International Baccalaureate interna-
tional studies discussions.
It is clear that this young woman was preparing her-
self for a life of service,just as her mother and sister had
done before her.We can offer no insight into why that
life was cut short,no meaningful solace to those who
miss her so today.
We can only say that many people in this good town,
including many f us who did not know her before,are
convinced today the ge had indeed succeeded in her
preparations,that her fe.while too short,was an impor-
tant and successful oni It was a life of service,freely and
enthusiastically given.,No life lived like that can be con-
sidered anything but a:triumph.
Sometimes the bricjfest lights burn the brightest.
D ,
Volunteer felt called to service
20-year-old ' home "We had
to care for si. .Jidren ,glans to
in Peru, where she died change
the world
By Lowell Brown together."
Staff Writer
Before she lost her life in Peru, Lily —Isaac Lewis,
Cantu found her purpose. 32,brother of
The 20-year-old Denton High Lily Cantu
School graduate died after slipping off a - -
third-story rooftop at Hogar San
Francisco de Asis, a Lima-area home
for impoverished sick children where Lily Cantu,20, is
she was serving as a volunteer caregiv- " , , shown with a child
er. at Hogar San Fran-
In the weeks after she left Denton in cisco de Asis,a
early October, in a series of Facebook center for impov-
updates and Skype calls, Cantu shared erished sick chil-
with friends and family members the dren in Chacla-
joys and sorrows of caring for the poor- cayo, Peru.The
est of the poor.She'd stepped out on her Denton resident
own, not even fluent in Spanish, to died last week in
spend six months serving Peruvian chit- an accident.
dren.
"Lily just took a leap of faith and Courtesy photo
jumped into the deep end of the pool
and found where she felt most called," ter what, Lily's life was going to be Family members said Cantu was
said Susan Mullins, youth minister at [focused on]doing for others,and she wearing hosiery but no shoes when she
Immaculate Conception Catholic searched until she found where she was lost her footing while trying to ste
Church, where Cantu was a member most called, which was this Peruvian /+b
and youth ministry volunteer."No mat- clinic." - See CANTU on SA C�
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Denton Record-Chronicle
From Page lA
Cantu "Now she had a direction,
Barbara Cantu said."It was just
from a gathering spot on the Lily Cantds love for the chil-
buildings rooftop to an exterior dren is clear in a message to her
staircase. No foul play is sus-pected in her death,they said. family last month, when she
A memorial fund was opened sought prayers fora 4.yeAr-oW
at Wells Fargo Bank in Cantu s boy bV�c . dren's
name to help her family pay to home d mal-
nourished on a street The boy,
beli
"Our main concern is the o autistic,wouldn't
cost of getting her home, said respond to anyone when he
her mother, Barbara Cantu, a came to the home but showed
Denton school teacher. "That's great improvement while there,
why this was set up.We're pray- eventually laughing and play-
ing well have enough left over ing with other children, Cantu
so we can give it back to the wrote. He couldn't stay there
lads in Peru somehow." indefinitely, though, and she
worried he'd be sent back to his
`Now she had a direction' neglectful family.
Lily Cantu's journey began "I'm not sure what exactly to
when she saw The Hurnctn Fx- pray for," Cantu wrote. "It
perience, a documentary that seems impossible to get him
inl from here to a suitable family
area dren a faril� in three days,but that would be
i ' eete y a Florida pedia- the very best Otherwise, pray
�'° for a miracle. Maybe one we
trician, serves children whose
■
�r nio],.,.�n one nen�L can't Imagine"
P ord �l�'tQ cbo�..ihe
been unsure what world r"
to do with her life after gradu-
ating from high school last year
but enjoyed worldng with chil-
dren at her church.After seeing wo- p�
the film,she knew she had to go "Her Lo Rw °�1't 8f
never been out of the U.S.,fam-
to Peru, even though she'd that,Wda��dw.& .va
talk �iti
ily members said. together hwwmP44w@&rvkhe
Haita fevple.k-wee gethg to
be our life's wQ&&agether"
e9u still wasn't sum..about
college pti- but -talked
about becoming a p►rysical ther-
apiff-o-r-dREgir,her mother said.
"She wanted to become
trained to help people,"Barbara
Cantu said.
Librada `Lily' Rose Cantu died in Chaclacayo, Peru on November 4, 2010. Lily was
born October 20, 1990 in Denton, Texas.She attended Rivera elementary, ICCS and
graduated from Denton High School in 2009. She attended Immaculate Conception
Catholic Church.
Lily's time on Earth was surprisingly brief, but she made a deep and lasting impact on the
world around her. Lily felt called to serve the sick and destitute children of Peru. In a
remarkable show of courage and independence she made arrangements to visit Peru on
her own and live out her faith and calling. She was serving at Villa la Paz, Center for
Destitute and Sick Children at the time of her death.
As in her everyday life, Lily kept up regular correspondences with family and friends
while she was in Peru. She expressed her sadness at the overwhelming poverty of the
children she served, but also her profound joy at helping to ease any suffering she could.
Not long before her death, as she prepared to throw a Halloween party at the center for
the children, she wrote, "costumes, kids, candy, cokes, cookies, music, dancing, PERU. I
love my life."
Lily is survived by her parents Barbara and John Cantu, her siblings Mariana Cantu,
Andrew Lewis, Isaac and Ashley Lewis, Kathleen and Keith Reichel, and Sarah and Jay
Tavis, as well as many adoring nieces and nephews.
There will be a rosary and vigil on Sunday, November 21 S`at 7:00 pm. The funeral is on
Monday, November 22°d at 11:00 am. Both will be held at Immaculate Conception
Catholic Church.
A memorial fund has been established in Lily's honor at Wells Fargo Bank. Funds will
be used to serve the children of Peru whom Lily loved so deeply. Librada Rose's legacy
will live on not only in the hearts of those who loved her, but also in the lives of children
in need.
Donations to the Lily Cantu Memorial Fund will be accepted at any Wells Fargo Bank or
at lilyrosefund.org.
CITY OF DENTON NAMING APPLICATION V
City Buildings, Facilities, Land, or Any Portion Thereof
Please type or print clearly in ink and return to the City Manager's Office:
Date of Submittal Commemorative Naming (Check One):
F- �] Individual ❑ Organization❑
Individual or Organization Submitting Nomination:
John J. Cantu
Recommended Name of City Building, Facility, Land, or Any Portion Thereof:
North Lakes Park playground
Location of City Building, Facility, Land, or Any Portion Thereof:
Address Descri tion of Location
2001 West Windsor Dr. Denton,Tx. Playground is directly across Windsor Dr. from the
Cross Street annex building.
Explanation of why this name should be considered. Please include the individual's biographical
information and vitae or resume. Use additional sheets, if necessary:
Nomination Submitted to Celebrate One of Our Own
Graced With a Missionary Heart and Zeal for the Sanctity of Human Life
According to the November 8, 2010, DRC editorial: "We will not try to explain the inexplicable. Even the facts
are sketchy...What we do know is that Librada (Lily) Cantu, a 2009 graduate of Denton High School, fell to her
death last week in the Chaclacayo district of Peru, where she was on a mission ...."
Lily's life, albeit her time of service way"too short...was a life freely and enthusiastically given...No life like that
can be considered anything but a triumph." (DRC, A Life of Service, Ended too Soon, November 8, 2010)
Please see full aabbreviated bio attached.
Point of Contact Organization or Secondary contact
First Name Organization First Name
John Rudy
Last Name Last Name
Cantu Rodriguez
Address Address
2716 Cordova Circle 1200 .Hope St
City State Zip City State Zip
Denton Tx. 76209 Denton Tx 76205
Phone Number Phone Number
940-594-4075 940-391-9764
Email Address Email Address
john2barb@gmail.com rroddguezl445@verizon.net
Signature of Nominator or Organization Representative: Date:
John J. Cantu Digitally signed by John J.Cantu 06/24/2021
Date:2021.06.24 17:17:33-05'00' 11
City of Denton Naming Application
Request for the Re-Naming of a City of Denton Park or Trail Re-naming
Request to Honor the Legacy of:
Librada "Lily" Rose Cantu
October 20, 1990 — November 04, 2010
Nomination Submitted to Celebrate One of our Own
With a Missionary Heart and Zeal for the Sanctity of Human Life
I: ABBREVIATED BIO
Librada "Lily" Cantu, a native of Denton,was born on October 20, 1990,at the Westgate Hospital. She attended
Tomas Rivera Elementary School and later the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church Middle School. She
graduated from Denton High School in 2009.
Lily was actively involved in the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church (ICCC). As she grew older,she became a
youth mentor and held various leadership roles in the youth ministry. She also helped her parents in their
outreach ministry to those less fortunate, here and abroad.
A documentary entitled The Human Experience convinced Lily of her true calling to serve, especially families and
children living in third world countries. Her passion was to serve the"poorest of the poor".
According to Susan Mullins,a now retired ICCC Youth Minister: "Lily just took a leap of faith and jumped into the
4eep end of the pool and found where she felt most called...No matter what, Lily's life was going to be [focused
on] doing for others...she searched until she found where she was most called." (DRC report, November 9, 2010).
After watching a documentary based on the Hagar San Francisco de Asis(Home of St. Francis of Assis Clinic)in
Chacaclayo, Peru, she was determined to join Hagar as a youth volunteer.
According to Mr. Cant6, Lily's dad,children are brought to the Hogar clinic with severe health or abandonment
issues; sometimes left in trash dumps or doorways. At the clinic, many of these children are nourished enough
+o survive, rehabilitated and returned to their parents, or wait for adoption.
Lily found her call to service in these dire human conditions. Her one—way ticket to fly to Lima, Per6 was
purchased with money she had inherited from her grandfather, Reynaldo Santos Cant6. She did not tell her
parents or family what she had planned. Just weeks before she was to depart, "she informed all of us(says her
Lily's dad);though we tried to dissuade her, she would not be moved."
According to the November 8, 2010, DRC editorial: "We will not try to explain the inexplicable. Even the facts are
sketchy...What we do know is that Librada (Lily) Cant6, a 2009 graduate of Denton High School,fell to her death
last week in the Chaclacayo district of Per6,where she was on a mission for the Catholic Church."
Lily's life,albeit her time of service way"too short...was a life freely and enthusiastically given...No life like that
can be considered anything but a triumph." (DRC,A Life of Service, Ended too Soon, November 8,2010)
Biographical Data Provided by:
John Cant6 (Lily's Dad)
2716 Cordova Circle
Denton,Texas 76209
Ph: 940-594-40 75
email: john2barb@gmail.com
-ditorial Support: Dr. Rudy Rodriguez,Sr., email: rrodriguez1445@verizon.net cell: 940 391 8764
II. EXPLANATION OF WHY Librada (Lily) ROSC' Canui SHOULD BE CONSIDERED FOR NAME OF A CITY
PARK or Re-naming of a City Trail
Denton High School Counselor, Ms. Doretha Hudspeth, shared what was Lily's most passionate and profound
signature trait"...she just enjoyed helping others. (DRC,A Life of Service Ended too Soon, November 8,2010)
Shortly before her tragic accident, Lily wrote an email to her mom (Barbara) and her dad (John), she talks about
her love for them "especially during the upcoming holiday...But, I still love it here."
It is clear Lily was preparing for a life of service and there is no explanation into why that life was cut short. The
DRC says it best: "There is no meaningful solace and peace to those who miss her so today".
Lily is in heaven now. There is no doubt there were no intermediate steps for her for she possessed a caring and
giving heart for humanity; most especially,for"the least among us".
.t is up to us, the living, to perpetuate the memory of God's gift to us all of this beautiful and compassionate
human being. A park such as the one dedicated to our friend, Dr. G. Roland Vela, would be a fitting memorial to
Lily Cant6. It would serve as an inspiration to the young and not-so-young, present and future generations of our
Denton community. She left her earthly home with an incredible legacy of commitment and dedication to her
Christian values and the sanctity of human life.
Without any intent to add strength to this nomination, Mariana Cantu, at the memorial remembering her sister,
expressed her gratitude to friends and family thusly:
"Lily didn't realize what a great impact she was making. My sister merely sought to walk into the world and do
the right thing over and over again. This is what she did with her life. This is what she would want you to do
with yours."
The purpose of life is not to be happy. it is to be useful, to be honorable, to be compassionate, to have made a
difference that you have lived and lived well.
Ralph Waldo Emerson
311IN JOIN CONTRIBUTE
f
c-;
Petition to Honor the Legacy of Lily Cantu
266 people have signed this petition.Add your name now!
266 peace- have signed.
27%
Petition to Honor the Legacy of Lily Cantu
October 23, 1990- November 4, 2010
We, the Denton Community, support the naming of a park, park trail, or playground
in an existing park, in honor of Librada "Lily" Rose Cantu.This letter is signed by those
who wish to see her legacy of loving service to young children perpetuated within the
Denton community.
Why Librada(Lily)Rose Cantu should be considered for the name of a city park, trail,
or playground:
Denton High School Counselor, Ms. Doretha Hudspeth,shared in a very concise and
succinct way Lily's most passionate and profound signature trait:"...she just enjoyed
helping other people."(DRC,A Life of Service Ended too Soon, November S, 2010)
SIGN PETITION
My Home
My home is where She is. Sometimes I try to kick Her out, but She's stronger
than me and always moves back in. My home is my body, and it is where She lives. A lot
of people don't believe in Her. Some people call Her a Him. Call Her the Holy Spirit. For
me She is She. And She lives in me and She makes me Home. When I am willing to be
Her home (and make me Home) my eyes and my mouth are like windows and her light
shines from them. My hands move where She wants them to move. But many times I am
not willing to be Her home (and make me Home).
Sometimes I am angry and I don't want Her in, because it is hard to be windows.
It is hard to be good, so I want Her out. It is then when She lies quiet and still, and fools
me into thinking She has left me. And then I become sad and am not a home and have no
home again. Maybe then I become willing again. Maybe then She shines again, a little bit
at a time, and maybe it is then that I become willing to be Her home (and make me
Home).
My home is where She is. Sometimes I don't want a home. Sometimes I want to
be free. Sometimes I want to be alone. And that is what kicks Her out. When I say I don't
want Her, She is sad. Then it makes me sad that She is gone from me, and I am sorry.
When I kick Her out, I don't know where She goes, but it is not far, because when I am
sorry, She can hear my heart saying come back home and She comes back. And then I am
windows again. I think sometimes it's too hard to be the windows, but sometimes I think
it is only then when I am happiest and it is then when I can be my best to my friends and
my family and whoever else needs Her through me.
My home is where She is, and everyone needs a home.
11:04pm
Barbara Cantu
We just looked at the photos of the children. You look s0000 HAPPY! You really are at the right
place. They look so loved and loving. Is there anythign we can do to help?
10:49am
Barbara Cantu
Morning Chula,
Went to Bishops house for dinner. Pretty much like one would expect. Dad wasn't going to make
it so I bowed out.,put on my jammies and then the bishop called me on the phone and said to
please come on. What are we going to do? So we were there 1 hour late but in time for a catered
dinner for us and two other couples. While there he got an important bishop text and stayed
distracted for most of the meal. He looked pretty serious. Sharon and I were convinced that it
was something serious. Anyway he entertained us the rest of the evening on his player piano and
we sang to Wizard of Oz and South Pacific medleys. Fun,just like out of Birdcage.
So I have a cold and need to sleep but Peggy is having a crisis to Vicki and I are taking her to
lunch. Speaking of crisis.... the Rangers lost to the Yankers last night by one point and your
brothers are freaking out. Dave has taken them to the last couple of games(including last night)
and Andrew is going this afternoon.
41
10:53ain
Barbara Cantu
Anyway....Andrew took mari for breakfast this morning and she'll find out the Ranger details. I
love you ,muss you and pray that your guts are healthy(I saw the bowl of fruit you were eating) .
What the heck...Jesus has brought you this far so what are a few salmonella bugs.
Mom
1:54pm
Librada Rose Cantu
Hahaha! Mom, my guts have been great since I got here! Other parts not so great(sore throat)
but guts defintely good. I am very glad that you ended up going to the Bishops. Why wasn't dad
going to go question mark. I am at an internet cafe because Dr. Tony has kept the internet off for
days and we are all too afraid of him to ask again. Anyway, I really miss you. I miss the Rangers
and Texas and my brothers and Mari.. I am very homesick today. Sometimes I am not sure I will
make it the whole six months. Speaking of, I emailed Sister Nelida in Huancayo again,just to
kind of check up and make sure everything is good to go, but I have not heard from her and it has
been over a week. Ugh. So I dunno what will happen with that.
Please tell the family that I want to email more often but the internet, like I said, is often off.
1 miss you, I love you. I love you, I love you,
Lily
12:44pm
Barbara Cantu
Hope you had a fun and safe evening at a discotec in a foreign land with strangers!!
OK A bit of business.First- Folks who might want to send you money for your birthday should
send it where?Are you able to use your debit card?If so can we just have them put it in your
account at Wells Fargo? Let me know.Second- Do you have a skype password yet? We have a
camera for the computer now and want to see you!
Third-At the Bishop's dinner we met a delightful young woman named Chanacee Ruth-Killgore
who happens to be the director of Respect Life for our diocese.Sharon Hess asked us to tell the
table about your visit to Peru and Dad mentioned The Human Experience in the conversation.
Chanacee was really excited to hear that because she is the one that brought the film here and
escorted Jeff, Mike and Cliff around. She plans on going with Surfers with a Cause to Bolivia in
March and said that if she wasn't married that she would be on the road all the time. Anyway she
would love to hear from you and about your experiences.Her email is cnith-killgore@fwdioc.org
. She may be someone to get to know.
Ok darling.. I hope you are moving through the home sickness fairly smoothly. It happens. You
will get through it and I sure hope the Sister gets a hold of you soon so you won't worry about
the future . I love love love you back. Mom
7:52pm
Barbara Cantu
Happy Birth Day my 8 and 1/2 pound punkin. WOW !!!! 20 Well we ate half the cake cause the
kids were here for the Big Game that we lost. I even pulled Mari out of school because it was a
3:00 game. Any way half the cake is still here to show you if we can skype. We all sang happy
birthday to Lily with Andrew and I injecting extra words.I hope to see the egg pic. soon.
Remember..I love you the best.Mom
12:26am
Librada Rose Cantu
Hi Mania. I am so glad you all had cake! I had apple pie at coffee today and ice cream and fruit
and yummy things. I miss you all very much, tonight especially. But my family of volunteers has
made today so lovely. I'm disappointed about the Rangers. Is it all over for them? I will upload
pies tomorrow. Hopefully the internet will be on more often because Dr. and Victor are off to
Florida tomorrow. I love you so, so much. We shall talk more soon.
P.S. Happy birthday... thank you, thank you, thank you for being my mother.
12:07pm
Barbara Cantu
When I say I love you the best.. of course that means the best of all the friends that love you. I
love all my children the best. I love you the 20 year old curliest the best.No No No the Rangers
are not out. hi fact they have won more games than the Yankers this series. It means that they
have to win 4 out of 5 . They have won 3 out of 5 and the Yanks have won 1 out of 5. If the
Yanks win on Friday we start playing for the best of 7.
Love my Pretch.
MOM
7:20pm
Barbara Cantu
Hey kiddo ,
Hope you're doing better today. Monsignor asked about you tonight at Mass and I told him that
are having a hard time with the socioeconomic differences in Peru. He said that you and Mary Z.
will need to hook up with Eric to trade stories.
I will go to the bank tomorrow morning and put some money in . I hope it gets to you. I love you
sweetie. Say your prayers as we pray for you every day.MOM
10:05pm
Barbara Cantu
Hi Hunny Bunny,
Good Game tonight! Rangers were definately at home ! They did win. Long ,long day for my
first Church/youth garage sale. I did have fun and make new friends but Mari had a blast! Young
Luis has caught her eye.Enough.
Dad sent a portion of your letter about Willy's situation. He put some of your message in his
words as well and so Willy will have lots of prayers from our ACTS family . I hope all is well
my precious and I WILL SEND SOME MONEY NEXT WEEK.
LOVE ,
Mom
4:32pm
Librada Rose Cantu
Hi Mama. Are the Rangers still doing well?I know they lost again last night, but they're still
going, right?
Garage sales are always so very tiring. Who's young Luis?He's caught Mari's eye, eh? Which
Luis?
I saw Dad's email to the ACTS community. I really appreciate it. Willy's mom was supposed to
show today and hasn't yet so I doubt she will.. maybe she'll never show, or maybe she will come
tomorrow or something. We really don't know. And with the Doctor being gone, we don't really
have anyone to ask about it because we feel bad to keep emailing him on his time off. Sigh. It's
so hard. It feels like it's always the last time we have with him, and we don't know... we just don't
know how his life is going to be. It breaks my heart every time I think about it too hard. It's just
not fair to him. Did you see the pictures I sent Daddy? Isn't Willy just adorable?Agh.
So, I really don't know what happened with the money thing. The only big expenses I've had are
the hostal and taxis.... and that's not even that much. I really... I just don't know. And I don't
know how I'm going to get through, either. I really... I guess I just really really really need you to
sell my car. Sigh. I'm stressing about it. I don't know what I should do, Mom. What should I do?
1 appreciate you putting money in.. obviously I appreciate it. It's my only means of income now.
So, I meekly thank you. Thank you thank you.
I hope all is well at the hol 1111LIg around.
r it here.
Give my love to everyone.
1 love you, and thanks again for the prayers and the money.
Lily
4:59pm
Barbara Cantu
I guess my question is...What are you going to do the month of december? I hate for you to come
home before you're ready. Do you have room and board besides that month? How much money
do you need per weeK? You crazy chick... Be thinking outside the box. Don't count on me to do
the thinking and saving at this point. What I mean is... If I got a loan could you pay me back by
working when you got home or would you give up Spain and the 400 1 am giving to the tourest
people go to you?or you get some cool job teaching English in December or..I don't know. Think
about it now so you can quit worrying about it. I love you and know you will be fine. ( You still
have your ticket for home right?)
5:1 Opm
Barbara Cantu
Did you get the reply I gave you around 10 minutes ago which was at 5:00? If not I will rewrite
it . xoxoxox
Librada Rose Cantu
October 20, 1990—November 04, 2010
Librada "Lily" Cantu was a native of Denton. She was born at Westgate hospital and spent her earlier
years at Flow Hospital infant day care where her mother Barbara Cantu was Director. Flow had the first
on-site, non-profit corporate day-care in Denton County. In those days on-site free day care was an
experiment offered as a work benefit in an effort to attract and retain quality staff.
By the time Lily was ready for grade school she was enrolled at Thomas Rivera Elementary where her
mother Barbara taught 2"d Grade.
Lily went on to Denton's Immaculate Conception Catholic School where she played Viola and was a
player on a championship Basketball team. Lily finished middle school there and then went on to storied
Denton High School where she graduated and had also earned a CNA (certified medication aid)
certificate. Before she graduated Lily and her best friend skipped school for a whole day to go to Dallas
and see then candidate Barak Obama speak at a campaign rally. Lily was an all American kid. Not
perfect, but pretty close.
Outside of school Lily was very involved in her local Catholic church and youth programs there. Lily was a
Alter Server at church. As she grew older she became a youth mentor and had some leadership roles in
youth ministry. Lily also helped her parents in their outreach ministry to those less fortunate here and
abroad.
Lily was shown a film that was to change her life. The Human Experience is an independent film that
investigates how people can be joyful in life no matter the circumstances surrounding them.
This true life film features several locations to which a group of young men from New York city travel to
sight-see and volunteer at local ministries. One such ministry is a clinic in a Lima, Peru suburb. The
children at this clinic are from the poorest of the poor. In these third_ world conditions, parents believe
children born with cleft pallet cannot suckle well enough to survive and 1NHl i e�fl?+ve to death
while still infants. These children are brought to the clinic but some aVabandoned, sometimes at trash
dumps or doorways. These are"'1'903cled by the clinic, nourished enough to survive surgery, rehabilitated
and either returned to their parer
J&or wait for adoption or admittance to an orphanage.
Lily found her calling.S1109eoetheWremains of money she had inherited from her grandfather when she
turned 18 to purchase her US passport and a one-way ticket to Lima, Peru. She didn't tell her family
what she had planned. Just weeks before she was to depart she informed all of us. Though some of us
tried to dissuade her she would not be moved.
V
l
I would like to thank those of you who have comforted my family and I this
past week. I would like you to know that your words mean a lot to me.
honestly don't know what I would do without you, my family. I know what
you're going through and I wish I could make it go away. I wish I could take
away this great, gaping hole of hurt that most of you are feeling. But, I
cannot. I can only hope that you do not wallow for too long. That you can,
after a while, look up from this great tragedy and see what it has brought.
My sister had always been a mystery to me, but this much was obvious:
she had immeasureable faith in people, in God, in herself. Though we can
see what she did with her life, especially during this past month,_Lily didn't
realize what a great impact she was making. My siste ��ght-ff'"
walk out into the orld and the right thing over and ov r in. MIS
what she did with her a is is w she would want you to do with yours.
Again, I thank you for your prayers and kind words.
Mariana
I
V I� 1
The Denton Independent School District
FACILTIY / BUILDING NAME PROPOSAL FORM
RE: NOMINATION PROPOSAL:
Dedication of the New Denton High School General Library to:
a.) To Honor the Memory of Lily Cantu; and,
b.) To Perpetuate Lily's Legacy of Giving and Caring for Others.
OUR NOMINEE:
Librada "Lily"Rose Cantu
October 20, 1990— November 04, 2010
"Sometimes the Briefest of Lights Burn the Brightest"
Denton Record Chronicle, November 8, 2010
Lily as a Young Volunteer Missionary Serving in the "Poorest of the Poor"
Sections Of the Chacaclayo District of Lima, Peru
Lily's Denton High School Counselor, Ms. Doretha Hudspeth, confirms what this
picture tells us (about Lily): "She enjoyed helping other people...when she talked
about it (i.e., her service to others) her face would lit up."(Denton Record
Chronicle,A Life of Service Ended Too Soon, November 8, 2010).
1
1.) Existing Building Name and Address Proposed for Naming/Renaming:
Existing Building: New Denton High School General Library Address: Bonnie
Brae, Denton, Texas
2.) Proposed Name for Building (or Facility): The Librada "Lily" Rose Cantu
Denton HS General Library.
Dedication of the New Denton High School General Library is Proposed to Honor
the Memory of Librada "Lily" Rose Cantu and Inspire other Young People to
Carry on her Legacy of Passion for Giving and Care for Underprivileged
Communities of Families and Children.
3.) 1 am Proposing the Aforementioned Name for the Following Reasons:
a.) Lily is one of our own exemplary young citizens. Attended Tomas Rivera
Elementary School and the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church
Middle School. She Graduated from Denton High School in 2009.
b.)The Following Lily Cantu Bio Data Should Provide Additional Evidence
Supporting our Proposal:
Librada "Lily" Cantu, a native of Denton, was born on October 20, 1990, at the
Westgate Hospital. She attended Tomas Rivera Elementary School and later the
Immaculate Conception Catholic Church Middle School. She graduated from
Denton High School in 2009.
Lily was actively involved in the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church (ICCC).
As she grew older, she became a youth mentor and held various leadership
roles in the youth ministry. She also helped her parents, John and Denton ISD
retired teacher, Barbara Cantu in their outreach ministry to those less fortunate,
here and abroad.
2
A documentary entitled The Human Experience convinced Lily of her true calling
to serve, especially families and children living in third world countries. Her
passion was to serve the "poorest of the poor".
According to Susan Mullins, a now retired ICCC Youth Minister: "Lily just took a
leap of faith and jumped into the deep end of the pool and found where she felt
most called...No matter what, Lily's life was going to be [focused on] doing for
others...she searched until she found where she was most called." (DRC report,
November 9, 2010). Inspired by a documentary based on the Hogar San
Francisco de Asis (Home of the St. Francis of Assis Clinic) in Chacaclayo, Peru,
she was determined to join the Hogar clinic as a youth volunteer.
According to Mr. Cantu, Lily's dad, children are brought to the Hogar clinic with
severe health or abandonment issues; sometimes left in trash dumps or
doorways. At the clinic, many of these children are nourished enough to
survive, rehabilitated and returned to their parents, or wait for adoption.
Lily found her call to service in these dire human conditions. Her one — way
ticket to fly to Lima, Peru was purchased with money she had inherited from her
grandfather, Reynaldo Santos Cantu. She did not tell her parents or family what
she had planned. Just weeks before she was to depart, "she informed all of us
(says Lily's dad), though we tried to dissuade her, she would not be moved."
According to the November 8, 2010, DRC editorial: "We will not try to explain
the inexplicable. Even the facts are sketchy...What we do know is that Librada
(Lily) Cantu, a 2009 graduate of Denton High School, fell to her death last week
in the Chaclacayo district of Peru..."
Lily's life, albeit her time of service was way "too short...(it) was a life freely and
enthusiastically given...No life like that can be considered anything but a
triumph." (DRC, A Life of Service, Ended too Soon, November 8, 2010)
4.) Reasons for Nomination: The new DHS Library should be named for Lily
for the reasons previously cited, as follows:
a.) To Honor the Memory of a Hero and Member of the DHS and the City of
Denton Community; and,
3
b.) To Inspire Other Young People of the DHS to Carry on her Legacy of
Passion for Giving and Mucho Corazon for Underprivileged Families and
Children.
The great Ralph Waldo Emerson once said: "The purpose of life is not to be
happy. It is to be useful, to be honorable, to be compassionate, to have made a
difference that you have lived and lived well."
Let's join together to honor the values by which Lily lived. Dedicating the new
DHS library to memorialize the life of Lily Cantu would be a beautiful act of
service that befits her amazing legacy.
5.) Names of Persons or Supporting Groups Responsible for Nomination:
John Cantu (Lily's Dad)
2716 Cordova Circle
Denton, Texas 76209
Ph: 940 - 594 - 40 75
email: john2barb@gmail.com
JOHN: Do you want to include the names of Your Daughters Here John??
OTHERS: ????
At end, ok to add my name.
Rudy Rodriguez, Sr.
Denton League of United Latin
American Citizens Council #4366
1200 Hope Street
Denton, Texas 76205
(940) 3919764 cell
rrodriguez1445@verizon.net
4
Thanks the Chair and Park Board members for the opportunity to present my
testimonial in support of John and Barbara Cantu's nomination of Librada "Lily"
Cantu as namesake for the dedicated space for the playground that is part of
North Lakes Park.
I am joined by Denton friends , including the Denton LULAC President and fellow
members of the LULAC Council.
Special thanks to the Denton Record Chronicle for supporting our nomination
for a Lily Cantu Playground in their July 31 paper.
In the brief DRC editorial, the editor speaks of Lily's lasting impression on our
community while serving others during her short life. Lily died tragically
November 2010 walking down the stairs of the Multi level ST Francis of Assis
Clinic in Lima,Peru where she was doing her missionary work. This fatal
accident took place while she was serving underprivileged children many with
serious illnesses.
The DRC says at the end of the editorial,: "Lily's legacy of selfless service and
dedication to a cause much larger than ourselves is worthy of celebration, and
we therefore urge the city of Denton to grant the Cantu's request. "
When Gary Packan's office announced the call earlier this year for nominations
from Denton citizens wanting to name local parks, John and Barbara felt the
timing was right for to move forward with the Lily park naming application.
It was felt, that the naming of a playground would be a fitting tribute to honor
Lily's legacy.
As Lily's sister said in the memorial service soon after her accident: "My sister
merely sought to walk into the world and do the right thing over and over again.
This is what she did with her life. This is what she would want you to do with
yours. "
Ralph Waldo Emerson presents us with another great line: " The purpose of life
is not necessarily to be happy. It is to be useful, to be honorable, to be
compassionate, to have made a difference that you have lived well.
As for those of us who remain, let's honor the Cantu's nomination by paying
tribute to the values by which Lily lived. For that reason, we urge the Park
Board to move forward with their review and approval of the Cantu family park
naming application. And let's do this in way that befits her legacy. A Lily Cantu
Playground Park serving young children would be the best fit and best way to
memorialize John and Barbara daughter's beautiful legacy.
Thanks the Chair and Park Board members for the opportunity to present my
testimonial in support of John and Barbara Cantu's nomination of Librada "Lily"
Cantu as namesake for the dedicated space for the playground that is part of
North Lakes Park.
I am joined by Denton friends , including the Denton LULAC President and fellow
members of the LULAC Council.
Special thanks to the Denton Record Chronicle for supporting our nomination
for a Lily Cantu Playground in their July 31 paper.
In the brief DRC editorial, the editor speaks of Lily's lasting impression on our
community while serving others during her short life. Lily died tragically
November 2010 walking down the stairs of the Multi level ST Francis of Assis
Clinic in Lima,Peru where she was doing her missionary work. This fatal
accident took place while she was serving underprivileged children many with
serious illnesses.
The DRC says at the end of the editorial,: "Lily's legacy of selfless service and
dedication to a cause much larger than ourselves is worthy of celebration, and
we therefore urge the city of Denton to grant the Cantu's request. "
When Gary Packan's office announced the call earlier this year for nominations
from Denton citizens wanting to name local parks, John and Barbara felt the
timing was right for to move forward with the Lily park naming application.
It was felt, that the naming of a playground would be a fitting tribute to honor
Lily's legacy.
As Lily's sister said in the memorial service soon after her accident: "My sister
merely sought to walk into the world and do the right thing over and over again.
This is what she did with her life. This is what she would want you to do with
yours. "
Ralph Waldo Emerson presents us with another great line: "The purpose of life
is not necessarily to be happy. It is to be useful, to be honorable, to be
compassionate, to have made a difference that you have lived well.
As for those of us who remain, let's honor the Cantu's nomination by paying
tribute to the values by which Lily lived. For that reason, we urge the Park
Board to move forward with their review and approval of the Cantu family park
naming application. And let's do this in way that befits her legacy. A Lily Cantu
Playground Park serving young children would be the best fit and best way to
memorialize John and Barbara daughter's beautiful legacy.
N G Editorial
V. y 2.ot o
A 'Iife of service,
ended too soon
e will not try to explain the inexplicable.Even
the facts are sketchy at this point;the meaning
behind them is beyond our understanding and
is likely to remain so.
What we do know is that Librada"Lilly"Cantu, a
2009 graduate of Denton High School,fell to her death
last week in the,1pclacayo district of Peru,where shj
was on a mission for the Catholic Church.
She vvas 20 years old.
We did not know Lilly Cantu personally,but there are
some things we can assume about her from the article
about her death by the Record-Chronicle's Britney Tabor.
A photograph accompanying the article shows a
young woman with bright eyes and a captivating smile.
Yes,beauty is only skin deep,and the camera can indeed
he,but it is hard to fake the intelligence in a young girl's
eyes or the radiance of a young girl's smile.We think we
know a lot about Lilly Cantu just from looking at that
picture. a can only say that many people in this good town,
Her school counselor,Doretha Hudspeth,confirmed a including many of us who did not know her before,are
lot of what that picture told us. convinced today that she had indeed succeeded in her
"She just enjoyed helping other people,"Hudspeth preparations,that her life,while too short,was an impor-
said."When she talked about it,her face just lit up." tart and successful one.It was a life of sen ice,freely and
It is clear that helping other people was important to enthusiastically given.No life lived like that can be con-
Librada Cantu,and it is clear,too,where she got her sidered anything but a triumph.
commitment to serve others. Her mother,Barbara Sometimes the briefest lights burn the brightest.
Cantu,is a second-grade teacher at Newton Rayzor
Elementary School,and her sister,Kathleen Reichel,
teaches English as a second language at Lee Elementary `
School.(A second sister,Marianna Cantu,is a soipho- This da In history: November 8
more at 1-femmn 1-fsgh.7 rt Ls n t�u ffie�Of�IleT
itated to a life of service;hrr ma
ters had already devoted their lives to just about the
greatest servile a person can give—teaching.
At a time in her life when most young people are busi-
ly preparing for careers in college or in their first jobs,
Lilly had volunteered for a church mission in Peru,a raze
commitment for a bright young high school graduate
with an even brighter future ahead. She served not only
the people in that South American country,but those at
home,too.Through the Internet,she was reporting regu-
larly to her mother's second-graders about life in Peru,
and about how a life of service can make a difference in
the lives of others.This was more than just an informal
stream of e-mails;the correspondence was part of
Newton Rayzor's International Baccalaureate interna-
tional studies discussions.
It is clear that this young woman was preparing her-
self for a life of service,just as her mother and sister had
done before her.We can offer no insight into why that
life was cut short,no meaningful solace to those who
miss her so today.
Vig il service set for Cantu
By Britney Tabor kindness. Mullins said
Staff Writer the family has been over-
A vigil service has been slated for 7 whelmed with the gen-
p.n- Sunday for Librada"Lily"Cantu, a erosity and often share
20-year-old Denton High School gradu- r stories of their thankful-
ate who died Nov 4 after slipping off a ness to everyone who has
third-story rooftop in Peru. come to their aid as they
The service will be at Immaculate grieve.
Conception Catholic Church, 2255 N. Cantu "It's just been beautiful
Bonnie Brae St.A funeral Mass is slated that Lily's story touched so many,"
for 11 am. Monday, also at Immaculate Mullins said. "It's like they are doing
Conception. what Lily did—giving back as Lily did.
Cantu's body was transported back to "Lily's death was very tragic but the
Denton by air from Peru on Thursday. love in the community and the support
Family spokeswoman Susan Mullins given showed that there are really good
said that when news of Cantu's death people, she said. "The world is a good
began to spread last week,friends,fami- place and this affums that"
ly and even strangers from the region, Cantu,a 2009 Denton High graduate,
out of state and Peru began to show their traveled on her own to Peru in early
support for the Cantu family through
donations,prayers,food and other acts of See CANTU on 11A
From Page I*
C�intu
October to serve for sic months whom Lily Cantu worked with.
as a volunteer caregiver at
Hogar San Francisco de Asis,a BRnmyTABOR can be
Lima-area home for impover- reached at 940-566-6876.Her
ished sick children. e-mail address is btabor@
She is survived by her pas- dentonrc.conL
ents,John and Barbara Cantu;
sisters Kathleen Reichel and
her husband Keith, Marianna William Ralph Mann
Cantu,and Sarah Tavis and her Attorney
husband Jay; and brothers
Andrew Lewis and Isaac Lewis
and his wife,Ashley. Civil Practice-Real Estate-
A memorial fund was estab- Wills&Trusts
lished at Wells Fargo Bank to Probate&Guardianship
assist the family in bringing her Business&Corporation
home from Peru. Mullins said Series LLC
that the remaining money from
the fund will be used bythe fam- (940) 566-6235
ily to serve the children of Peru f NG
Channel 5, NBC DFW - News Report by Susy Solis, Nov 9, 2010
Woman Gives Her Life To Serving Children
By Susy Solis • Published November 9, 2010 • Updated on November
9, 20Woman Gives Her Life To Serving Children
By Susy Solis • Published November 9, 2010 • Updated on November
9, 2010 at 6:00 pm
Behind her vibrant eyes and smile was a caring, loving, giving,
profound woman. Librada "Lily" Cantu, 20, ultimately gave her life to
serving others.
Cantu had always devoted time to volunteering and helping others,
but friends say she found her calling when she decided to volunteer to
become a caregiver for sick and improverished kids at a Hogar San
Fransisco de Asis, children's home in Peru.
"Speaking very little Spanish, having never left the country, she just
put all her faith in God and said 'This is where I need to be,"' said
Susan Mullins, the coordinator of youth ministry for the Immaculate
Conception Catholic Church in Denton, where Cantu was a lifelong
member. "It's a very poor place, so families aren't able to care for
them medically, so it was a long term care place for children."10 at
6:00 pm
't has been almost 11 years since our city lost
iibrada"W Rose Canto to an unfortu-
nate accident I personally did not know
Lily,but thanks to her parents,John and
Barbara Cantu,rve come to appreciate this
precious individual whose life was taken away
from us much too soon.lily's life was un-
doubtedly graced with a missionary heart and
a passion for caring for the most vulnerable
and often the most forgotten among us.Her
inspirational story deserves to be told.
Librada"Lily"Cantu was one of our
own;born on Oct.20,1990,at Westgate
Hospital.She attended Tomas Rivera
Elementary School,Immaculate Concep-
tion Catholic Church(ICC)Middle School
and graduated in 2009 from Denton High
mool. Courtesy photo
Her parents'outreachworktor ICC and Librada "Lily" Cantu is shown in this
church service by her father for the ICC sister undated photo with one of the many
church in Patzun,Guatemala,may have children she served as part of her mis-
impacted lAys desire to serve needy commu- sionary work in Lima,Peru.
nities during her formative years.A brother
shared IWs dedication to service in econom- At the time of her death,Lily was only 20
ically depressed regions of Latin America.He years old,working with poor children in the
was in fact on assignment in Guatemala when most economically depressed section of Lima,
he was notified of his sister's tragic accident Peru.As the Denton.Record-Chrrnide noted ■ L
In a Nov 9,2010,article in this newspa- on Nov 8,2010:"Lily's life,albeit short lived
per,then-ICC Youth Minister Susan Mullins ...was a life freely and enthusiastically given N U O
recalled that,"Lily ...No life like that can be considered anything
just took a leap of but atriumph" N
faith and jumped Based on the post-mortem examination in 4
into the deep end of Lima,it was reported by medical officials that
the pool and found Lily tragically fell to her death walking down
where she felt most from the multi-story building ofthe Hogar
called...No matter San Francisco de Asir Clinic.Susy Solis,
what,Ws life was Channel 5 TV News reporter,said of Lily soon
going to be[focused after her death:"Behind her vibrant eyes and v� O
on]doing for others Rudy smile was a caring loving,giving,profound
...she arched woman.Librada`Lily'Cantu,ultimately gave b se ♦=0
until she found Rodriguez Sr. her a to serving others' Z
where she was most Lily's parents recently submitted to ct f�l
called"Her search Denton's Parks and Recreation Department ��
led her to the Hogar a park-naming application with the name
San Francisco de Asis(Home of St Francis of of their daughter as namesake for a local
Assisi)Clinic,a nonprofit organization serving park or park trail.A long overdue Den-
children in the Chaclacayo district near the ton Librada"Lily"Canto City Park would Q
city of Lima,Perri, especially be a fitting tribute to this young w
Many of the children are brought to woman's legacy of extraordinary strength O
the St.Francis of Assisi Clinic with se- of spiritual faith and dedication to the most
vere health or psychological issues due to fundamental of Christian values.What a
abandomnent by parents;sometimes they wonderful inspiration this lasting memorial
are left in dumpsters or doorways.At this would be to present for fixture generations
long-term help facility,many of the sick of our beautifiil city
and malnourished children are treated back In the words of poet Ralph Waldo
to health,provided with basic schooling and Emerson:'Me purpose oflife is not to be
eventually returned to their parents;others happy.It is to be useful,to be honorable,to be
wait for adoption. compassionate,to have made a difference that
Lily found her call to serve in these dire you have lived and lived well"Lily Cantu did
human conditions.She purchased a one- indeed make a difference.Let those of us who
way ticket to fly to Lima,Peru,with money remain honor the values by which she lived in
she had inherited from her grandfather.She a way that befits her legacy.
did not tell her family of her plans until just
a few weeks before she was to leave,and RUDYRODRIGVEZ,ofDenton,is a
as her mother recalls,`"Though we tried to re ired prmfessorfirnn.the Unkvvity oJMnfh
dissuade her,she would not be moved" Texas and Tama Woman' Uniz,,ersity,and a
Clearly;Lily was firm in her convictions former member of the Denton ISD Board of
and resolute in her spirit 7hrstws.
Rudy,
Marianna stayed for the vote. The application was
unanamously approved. Marianna reports the
board was very kind and expressed how moved
they were by everything our speakers expressed.
Super job Rudy!
Thank you once again.
Best regards,
John and Barbara
1
Rudy,
Marianna stayed for the vote. The application was
unanamously approved. Marianna reports the
board was very kind and expressed how moved
they were by everything our speakers expressed.
Super job Rudy!
Thank you once again.
Best regards,
John and Barbara
PRUDENCE Sep 14th, 2021 Email
Yes, Alfredo and I stayed for the deliberations as
well and it was very gratifying to hear the kind
words the City staff and the board had to say
about Lily and her family. The vote was unanimous
to present Lily's name as applied for to the City
Council for their approval. My understanding is
that it will be presented as, " Librada 'Lily' Cantu
Playground". According to the family, it is the
playground where she played as a child. There is
no funding for the signage yet, so we have to stay
involved. The staff mentioned that the playground
is overdue for renovations, and the signage will be
constructed according to the criteria in the master
plan. We look forward to learning the date of the
city council's deliberation. I understand it is yet to
be determined. Thank you.
Saturday,Jul 31, 2021
Denton Record Chronicle
Representation matters
I appreciated Dr. Rudy Rodriguez's July 24 guest essay regarding the naming of a Denton
playground or park after my sister, Lily Cantu. It has been nearly 11 years since she slipped
and fell to her death in Peru, leaving the world a little less bright and her family with a hole
that can never be filled.
It would bring us joy to have a park or playground named after Lily. When we lose a loved
one unexpectedly, we fear that they will be forgotten.The renovated park or playground at
North Lakes, with its emphasis on universal accessibility, would be a fitting remembrance as
Lily was serving special-needs children at the time of her death.
As a former Denton ISD teacher, I bring another perspective: Representation matters. Lily was
a young Hispanic woman, determined to serve. She understood herself to be not just an
individual but rather as part of a community. This is exactly the kind of citizen we should be
honoring.
In these trying times, when we are perhaps unsure of how "together" our community really
can be, and as we feel our differences so keenly, we can look around our community to see
who we've decided to honor. If the park or playground were named in honor of Lily, I would
rejoice not just as a big sister who misses her little sister but also as a teacher who longs to
see young people feel their calling to rise up and take their roles as servant leaders in their
community.
Kathleen Cantu Reichel,
Valley View
For those of us who have not lived through the personal crisis this family
experienced it is difficult to image the pain moms and dads feel at the loss of a
daughter or son.
I talked early on with John and Barbara about meeting with the pastor of the
ICC about possibly a dedicating spot on the church grounds nicely adored with
beautiful plants as way to memorialize Lily's life. But the grief at the time I felt
was to deep and to painful, felt that was not a good timing to talk about a
special tribute for Lily.
When the city announced a call for nominations from the community for the
naming or re-naming of local parks and trails, John, Barbara and I met to talk
about the idea of proposing the naming of a park for Lily. A meeting followed
with Gary Packan to present our proposal directly to him for serious
consideration by his office, the Park Board and the ultimately the City Council.
I really like John and Barbara's idea that the playground park at North Lakes as
the city's site for the proposed Lily tribute would such a fitting site to honor her
memory. The Lily Cantu Playground Park could be the North Lakes equivalent of
Eureka Park at South Lakes. Some would say why such a place of fun and
excitement for children.
A memorial to a life lost some people would view it as a big contradiction to
what a playground represents to young children.
I believe it could serve a great purpose for children enjoying the park. Not only
will it represent a fun place for kids, but Moms and dads can help their young
children learn what it means to be a good and kind person. Don't need to be a
missionary and serve in third world countries to have this personal quality as
part of your life. Lily Cantu the genuine satisfaction she felt in giving freely and
enthusiastically to others. As her sister said at Lily's memorial services: "My
sister merely sought to walk into the world and do the right thing over and over
again. This is what she did with her life. This is what she would want you to
with yours. As moms and dads, I am sure they could phrase this into language
their children would understand.
And, having a statue of Lily with her smiling face holding a beautiful child would
give extra meaning and significance to a person whose life although brief was an
honorable life inspired by the most basic of Christian values of unconditional
love and caring for others.
Hope this park for children dedicated to Lily's beautiful life would inspire our
community to support adding improvements to the N Lake Parks that match or
even surpass those of Eureka Park in South Lakes.
I
Ph: 940- 594-40 75
email: john2barb@gmail.com
Editorial Support: Dr. Rudy Rodriguez, Sr., email: rrodriguez1445@verizon.net cell: 940 3918764
11. EXPLANATION OF WHY Librada (Lily) Rose Cantu SHOULD BE CONSIDERED FOR NAME OR RE-NAMING
OF A CITY PARK
Denton High School Counselor, Ms. Doretha Hudspeth, shared in very concise and succinct way what
was Lily's most passionate and profound signature trait "...she just enjoyed helping other people." (DRC,
A Life of Service Ended too Soon, November 8, 2010)
Shortly before her tragic accident, Lily wrote an email to her mom (Barbara) and her dad (John), she
talks about her love for them "especially during the upcoming holiday...But, I still love it here."
It is clear Lily was preparing for a life of service and there is no explanation into why that life was cut
short. The DRC says it best: "There is no meaningful solace and peace to those who miss her so today".
Lily is in heaven now. There is no doubt there were no intermediate steps for her for she possessed a
caring and giving heart for humanity.
In her final November 2010 tribute to her sister, Mariana said: "Lily didn't realize what a great impact
she was making. My sister merely sought to walk into the world and do the right thing over and over
again. This is what she did with her life. This is what she would want you to do with yours."
It is up to us,the living, to perpetuate the memory of God's gift to us all of this beautiful and
compassionate young woman. A park such as the one dedicated to our friend, Dr. G. Roland Vela, would
be a fitting memorial to Lily Cantu. It would serve as an inspiration to the young and not-so-young,
present and future generations of our Denton community. She left her earthly home with an incredible
legacy of commitment and dedication to her Christian values and the sanctity of human life. What a
beautiful inspiration!!!
*************
The purpose of life is not to be happy. It is to be useful, to be honorable,to be compassionate, to have
made a difference that you have lived and lived well. Ralph Waldo Emerson
1
librada "LiCy"Rose Cantii
1990-2010
Lily, daughter of John and Barbara Cantu and five siblings: Sarah,
Kathleen,Isaac,Andrew and Mariana. Lily attended TWU Child
Development Center,Tomas Rivera Elementary, Immaculate Conception
Catholic School and graduated from Denton High school in 2009.Lily
obtained her Nurse's aide certification while in high school and worked at
the Vintage of Denton.
Lily went to Peru searching to help children of extreme poverty.After
watching a documentary of the Hogar Sara Francisco de Asis in
Chacaclayo,Peru she followed her call as a missionary. The Hogar offers
medical treatment and hospice to those children in medical crisis on the
lowest rungs of Peru's poorest. While some abandoned children are brought
in by the nuns, others were brought in by parents with cleft pallet and many
were burnt patients victims of portable kerosene stoves that are used
indoors by the poor for cooking and heating.
1 want to go find what needs to be done and do it.
LiCy 2010
LULAC Council #4366 honors Librado "Lily"Rose Cantzi
8
(�2.�
Vigil service set for Cantu
By mR 1Ntnel Tabor �:,.; lundnesn.MuBlm said
the famih•has been m-er-
A sigd smite has been slated for i whrlmed with the lm u-
p.m Sundae for L'brada•lilt"Cantu,a csusty and often,hay
20-)car-old Denton High School g ado- stmes of their thankhd-
ate whin died Nm 4 alter slipping off a ness to nmtune whto has
third-stop rooftop in Fu.•r1L more to their ail as d--
The senior will be at 1—.Iate --' K. e.
Conup ohun Catholic Ch-h.2:G5 N. Cantu 'hijust been beautifid
Bonnie Brae St.A funeral Mass is slated that Lily-s story toudied so roam•:
for 11 am Mooch);also at I.wmarsdat. Mullins said'It's lice the)-are doing
Conception. what Lily did-giving bade as lily did
Cassius body was tramtod por bade to 'I�ly's death was{tom•tragic but the
Deno by air hma Peru on Thurrday. bse in the tommunry and the support
Fa®I-v spokeswoman Susan Mi&m V%m showed that them am really good
said that whom soma•of Cantuts death people"she said-The wurid is a gosh
in spre
ad read last weds,Gwmk fitmi- platy and this aff r that.
ly and nssu strangers form the region. Cant..a 200q Demo.Huth grathW."
.it ofstate and R•ro began toshoe,their traded on her rnm to I,-in edy
support for the Cantu fusad•through
donations,promm fond and other arc of See CANNI on IIA _
From Page 3A
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Channel 5, NBC DFW - News Report by Susy Solis, Nov 9, 2010
Woman Gives Her Life To Serving Children
By Susy Solis • Published November 9, 2010 • Updated on November
9, 20Woman Gives Her Life To Serving Children
By Susy Solis • Published November 9, 2010 • Updated on November
9, 2010 at 6:00 pm
Behind her vibrant eyes and smile was a caring, loving, giving,
profound woman. Librada "Lily" Cantu, 20, ultimately gave her life to
serving others.
Cantu had always devoted time to volunteering and helping others,
but friends say she found her calling when she decided to volunteer to
become a caregiver for sick and improverished kids at a Hogar San
Fransisco de Asis, children's home in Peru.
"Speaking very little Spanish, having never left the country, she just
put all her faith in God and said 'This is where I need to be,"' said
Susan Mullins, the coordinator of youth ministry for the Immaculate
Conception Catholic Church in Denton, where Cantu was a lifelong
member. "It's a very poor place, so families aren't able to care for
them medically, so it was a long term care place for children."10 at
6:00 pm
J
Mr. Sean McCrory
Executive Editor
Denton Record Chronicle
RE: Request DRC support for the attached nomination of Librada "Lily" Cantu (October 20, 1990—
November 4, 2010)for naming of a Denton City Park
I have joined with Lily's parents, Mr. and Mrs.John Cantu (ph#940 594 4075), in presenting the
attached special petition to the City of Denton to establish a Lily Cantu namesake park as a way to
celebrate one of Denton's own whose short life was graced with a missionary heart and zeal for the
sanctity of human life.
Please advise on how I can help Mr. and Mrs. Cantu in building public awareness and support for this
nomination via the DRC. See the attached material, including the DRC publications reporting on Lily's
fatal tragedy during her time of service to needy children in Lima, Peru.
Rudy Rodriguez
rrodriguez1445@verizon.net
940 3919764 cell
Mr. Sean McCrory
Executive Editor
Denton Record Chronicle
RE: Request DRC support for the attached nomination of Librada "Lily" Cantu (October 20, 1990—
November 4,2010)for naming of a Denton City Park
I have joined with Lily's parents, Mr. and Mrs.John Cantu (ph#940 594 4075), in presenting the
attached special petition to the City of Denton to establish a Lily Cantu namesake park as a way to
celebrate one of Denton's own whose short life was graced with a missionary heart and zeal for the
sanctity of human life.
Please advise on how I can help Mr. and Mrs. Cantu in building public awareness and support for this
nomination via the DRC. See the attached material, including the DRC publications reporting on Lily's
fatal tragedy during her time of service to needy children in Lima, Peru.
Rudy Rodriguez
rrodriguez1445@verizon.net
940 3919764 cell
Denton RecordmChroniele
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I■
The Denton League of United Latin American Citizens Council #4366
John and Barbara Cantu and Family
Librada "Lily" Rose Cantu
2022 Humanitarian Service
Memorial Scholarship Award
F
Al
October 20,1990 "' November 04, 2010
"SOMETIMES THE BRIEFEST OF LIGHTS BURN THE BRIGHTEST."
The Scholarship is Awarded to a Student Graduating from a Denton High School Who has
Demonstrated Lily's Extraordinary Commitment to Serving Underprivileged
Communities.
April 27, 2022
LY
o t '
c�
1929
2011
Request to
Rename South Lakes Park to
Dr. G. Roland Vela
INSIDE TODAY r ALSO INSIDE
F
Denton blows second-half lead against Lake Dallas / Sports, lB Protesters stand ground,
Ryan pulls away for easy win over The Colony / Sports, lB prevent park cleanup planNationa
l, 3A
D nton Chronicle
Record,
I.
An edition of C, be juallas
Vol. 108, No. 74/ 26 pages, 3 sections Saturday, October 15, 2011 Denton, Texas 50 cents
Groupsuggests new name
F r.
,r 6
Local LULAC chapter
He is one of the most underappreciated �. k
asks cityto add Vela
citizens of this town."
to South Lakes Park —Don Smith,longtime friend of Roland Vela , h
t
By Lowell Brown
Staff Writer "He is one of the most underaPP re- South Lakes Park *—
Roland Vela has several claims to ciated citizens of this town," Smith Supporters say the change would
local fame. said. honor a worthy resident and inspire
The first Hispanic elected to the Smith and others hope to change young people to greater success and
Denton City Council,Vela had a dis- that. civic involvement
tinguished career as a microbiology The League of United Latin "I think that he makes a wonderful
professor at the University of North American Citizens' Denton chapter role model;said Linnie McAdams,a
Texas.He even has a species of bac- is asking the city to rename South former council member who joined
teria named for him. Ickes Park after Vela, 84,who lives prominent residents in signing the - t --
Still, few people know or fully in the nearby Southridge neighbor- renaming proposal. "Seeing his Denton Record-Chronicle/David Minton
understand the depth of his contri- hood. Under the proposal, the 187- name [on the park] would bring The Denton Parks and Recreation Department is considering a request to
butions to Denton,said Don Smith, acre park on Hobson Lane would be - -- rename South Lakes Park after Roland Vela, shown at the park Thursday in
a longtime friend. officially known as G. Roland Vela See PARK on 7A Denton.
From Page 1A successfiilly fought to stop cost-
Park G. ROLAND VELA ly amendments to the con-
Age:84 struction contract,Smith said.
Born In:Eagle Pass "Roland stopped a lot of bad
inspiration and hope to Lives In:Denton things from happening,and his
younger people — and Famlty:married Emma Lamar Codina Longoria in 1953;they have accomplishments were signifi-
Hispanics in particular— that four children,seven grandchildren and two great-granddaughters. cant," Smith said. "He's as
e might encourage them to seek Education:University of Texas at Austin(B.A.,1950;M.A.,1951; incorruptible as anyone I've
e higher education and a more Ph.D.,1964) ever met. If he thought some-
active participation in city gov- Title:emeritus professor of microbiology,University of North Texas; thing was right,it didn't matter
d ernment, rather than thinking fellow,American Academy of Microbiology what the opposition was.'
�t their voice doesn't count." vy, microbiology professor, For Vela, the recognition
Career highlights:ts: U.S.Na 1945-46;UNT
3s The proposal is pending 1965-2000;elected to the American Academy of Microbiology,1975; would be nice, but it would
to before the city's parks board, published 75 research papers,a textbook and a laboratory manual; mean a lot more if the renam-
which could vote as early as directed research of 44 master's and 20 doctoral students;discov- ing inspired young people, he
e- Nov 7.The City Council would ered and studied a new type of bacterium with doctoral students. said.
e's have the final say. City service highlights:Denton City Council,1979-80;Texas Vela grew up in San Antonio
to Public opposition has been Municipal Power Agency board,11 years;Denton Airport Advisory among a large Hispanic popu-
scarce, but city parks director Board,former chairman lation, but he's lived in places
ns Emerson Vorel said people Other:named one of Latino Month/y magazine's top 100 Texas where Hispanics felt left out
at- contacting his department Latinos of the 20th century in 2000;authored biographies of Antonio because of their small num-
i a have expressed mixed views. Lopez de Santa Anna and Bernardo de GAIvez. bers,he said.
ew "We've gotten a lot of a-mails SOURCE:Roland Vela,staff research He has lived in Denton since
en and phone calls on both sides of 1965, and Latinos now make
le's this"after inviting public com- up 21 percent of the city's popu-
ment, Vorel said. "The recur- City parks officials offered board of the Texas Municipal lation.
►n- ring theme [from opponents] South Lakes Park as one of the Power Agency, a partnership "Kids today tend to think
igs seems to be,'By all means find potential naming options, and among Denton and three other that if you don't sing or dance
something to attach his name LULAC committee members cities. He also served on the or make a lot of noise, you'll
;ed to,but let's make it something latched onto it because of the city's airport board, among never amount to anything,"
;bt other than South Lakes Park'" park's prominence and proxim- other community boards. Vela said. "Something like this
me Some residents are emotion- ity to Vela's home, Rodriguez Many of his accomplish- will show them that you can be
a ally attached to the park said. ments were unheralded or for- quiet and do your job and do it
ter because they helped fund and "I think this is a first step in gotten over time,said Smith,a well,and people will notice"
J& build the Eureka playground acknowledging the contribu- longtime UNT botany profes-
there in 1994.Opponents seem tions of leaders who have sor who has known Vela for 48 LOWELL BROWN can be
to have nothing against Vela; stepped forward from the years. For example, when reached at 940-566-6882.His
they just don't want the park's Hispanic community so they TMPA was building its power e-mail address is lmbrown@
name to change,Vorel said. can serve as mentors for other plant in southeast Texas, Vela dentonre.com.
Rudy Rodriguez respects people who want to step for-
that viewpoint but disagrees. ward," said Jorge Urbina, a
til- "This is a democracy, and Denton lawyer and community OBITUARIES
be certainly all views are wel- leader. -- - - - - --- - --
of come;said Rodriguez,who led Vela became the first Pamela Holman
21 the LULAC committee that Hispanic elected to the council Pamela Gail Jeffries Redfearn Holman
recommended the name in 1979. He served one term was born June 19, 1956 in Oklahoma City,
lti- change. "Were going to stick but spent another decade as a
its with South Lakes Park" Denton representative on theT OK,and died October 12,2011 in Dallas,
TX. She maintained her humor through her
City of Denton
Request to Speak on an Agenda Item
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Individual Consideration, please complete the form on the opposite side of this card.
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Time limit for speakers is three (3) minutes for non-public hearing items and public hearing items.
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speaker with a maximum of fifteen (15) minutes.
M
PROPOSED TIMELINE FOR CONSIDERATION OF SOCCER
FIELDS AT NORTH LAKES PARK
Feb 21, 2012 - Council Work Session — Council agreed to purchase 26
acres on the north side of North Lakes Park for site of four new
soccer/rugby fields — COST: $250,000
Parks and Recreation Dept will work to purchase property and hire a
design firm
April 3, 2012 - Design contract on Council Consent Agenda
Fall 2012 — Design complete for Phase I and ready for groundbreaking
Fall 2013 — Phase I construction complete
Follow up—
Contact City Council via email or phone let them know of the LULAC
proposal to name the new soccer field complex for Dr G. Roland Vela.
Let's plan meetings with council members, including those running for
reelection.
City of Denton 1-r -
City Council Contact Information — J
L�
Mailing Address for the City Council:
City of Denton Voice Mail: 349-7717k
215 E. McKinney Fax: 349-8596
Denton, TX 76201
Mayor
Mark Burroughs (Annie) Office: 349-7717
15 Royal Oaks Circle Cell: 390-9702
Denton, TX 76210
E-mail: mark.burroughs@cityofdenton.com
Council Member- District 1
Kevin Roden Cell: 206-5239
322 Texas Street
Denton, TX 76201
E-mail: kevin.roden@cityofdenton.com
Council Member-District 2
Dalton Gregory (Donna) Home: 565-9331
2408 Emerson Lane
Denton, TX 76209
E-mail: dalton.gregory@cityofdenton.com
Council Member-District 3
Jim Engelbrecht (JoAnn) Home: 565-1009
2305 North Lake Trail Cell: 206-5167
Denton, TX 76201
E-mail: jim.engelbrecht@cityofdenton.com
Council Member- District 4
Chris Watts (Robin) Cell: 391-4422
1900 Jasmine Street
Denton, TX 76205
E-mail: chris.watts@cityofdenton.com
Mayor Pro Tern -At Large Place 5
Pete Kamp (David Gosdin) Home: 566-5557
110 Friar Tuck Circle Cell: 390-9137
Denton, TX 76209
E-mail: pete.kamp@cityofdenton.com
Council Member-At Large Place 6
James King (Melinda) Cell: 390-3698
510 N. 1-35E
Denton, TX 76205
E-mail: james.king@cityofdenton.com
Revised 05/19/11
March 21,2011
Mr. Emerson Vorel
Director
City of Denton
Parks and Recreation
Denton,TX
Dear Mr. Vorel:
The Denton League of Latin American Citizens met on Saturday, March 191h and
unanimously voted to request the Denton city government to rename the South
Branch Library to the Dr. G. Rolando Vela Library. Enclosed are the
nomination materials required by your office and the City of Denton Beautification,
Parks and Recreation Board.
LULAC members also request, after your review and comment of the material, to
be placed on the April 4,2011, meeting of the Parks and Recreation Board and
allowed time on the agenda to present our proposal. Some of the LULAC members
will also be present at the April 5, 2011, meeting of the Denton City Council to
propose the name change for the South Branch Library.
For more information, please contact Dr. Piiia Hinojosa,LULAC President, at(940)
300 3171 or me at(940) 3919764.
Your assistance and support are greatly appreciated.
Rudy Rodriguez,�PD.
Retired UNT Professor &
Chair
Ad Hoc Committee
Nomination of Dr. Vela
for Name or Rename of City Facility
Members: Dr. Roberto R. Calderon, UNT Professor,Jorge Urbina,President,
Denton Hispanic Chamber of Commerce,Dorothy Martinez,Retired Dallas ISD
Administrator
CITY OF DENTON
NAME NOMINA TION FORM
Naming or Renaming of Parks, City Facilities or Specific Facilities to Recognize an
Individual, Organization or Other Entity
Please type or print clearly in ink and return to:
• Department of Parks and Recreation(for all Parks or Recreation Related
Facilities)
• City Hall (for all other Facilities)
I. Date of Submittal: MARCH 21, 2011
II. Individual or Organization Submitting Nomination:
Denton LEAGUE OF UNITED LATIN AMERICAN CITIZENS
Council 4366 & Jerry Vela, Son of Nominee
III. Address: 3925 MAGGIES MEADOW
City, State, Zip: DENTON, TX. 76210
Telephone: (940) 565 9507 (home) (940) 391 9764 email:
rrod riguez1445(a,verizon.net
IV. Signature of Nominee or ation Representative: I L
a ?rel
eti
-Ace 6-od k Luar- covxcil LIM6
I Li
V. Nominee (Check one): Individual _X Organization
VI. Nominated Name/Organization: G. Rolando Vela, Ph.D.
VII. Number of Years Nominee Lived in Denton: 45 years
Recommended Name of Facility: RENAME: South Branch Library to DR. G.
ROLANDO VELA LIBRARY
IX. Facility Location: SEE ABOVE
X. Explanation of why this individual/organization should be considered. (This
information will be used by the City Staff and/or Parks, Recreation and
Beautification Board to determine the basis for their decision). Use additional
sheets if necessary.)
The wonderful community life we enjoy in our great city would be impossible to
achieve without the active participation and service of our citizens. Dr. Vela,better
known to his friends as Roland or Rolando, recognized the value of community
service since first coming to Denton over 45 years ago. He further understands the
value of community relationships and community building. These values he
exemplified through his work and service in a number of City of Denton Boards and
Commissions. His most notable contribution to the citizens of Denton was during his
service as the first Latino elected member to the City Council in 1979. His
leadership qualities and deep- felt commitment to community betterment were
further demonstrated during his tenure as either an officer or member of the:
Board of Directors of the Flow Medical Foundation; Anne's Haven Hospice; Denton
County Cooperative Agency; Our Daily Bread(meals for the indigent); Board of
Directors of the Texas Municipal Power Agency (11 years); Airport Advisory Board
(served as Chair).
In addition, Dr. Vela, as Professor of Microbiology, contributed enormously to
elevating the status of the University of North Texas over the 40 years of service to
that great educational institution, as noted in his professional vita (see attached).
Now retired from UNT, he remains active as an Professor Emeritus through his
research and publications. He has also retained his membership in the prestigious
American Academy of Microbiology.
It is due to Rolando's legendary devotion to the City of Denton and values that are
at the core of the Denton community that the League of United Latin American
Citizens submits this nomination. Replacing the name of the SOUTH BRANCH
LIBRARY with the new namesake, Dr. G. ROLANDO VELA,would be a fitting
reminder to all present and future citizens who serve our City and those who avail
themselves of our City services of the standard for the academics and civic
involvement that he set during his long tenure of service to Denton and the
University of North Texas and his expectation of excellence.
V. Names of persons or supporting groups responsible for nomination:
DR. ISABELA PINA HINOJOSA, President,LULAC March 21,2011
Mr. JERRY VELA (Dr. Vela's son) March 21,2011
Mr. JORGE URBINA, President,Denton Hispanic Chamber
Of Commerce March 21, 2011
Dr. RUDY RODRIGUEZ (UNT colleague) March 21, 2011
Dr. ROBERTO CALDERON (UNT colleague) March 21,2011
G. Roland Vela, Ph.D., Emeritus Professor of Microbiology (2000)
member: American Academy of Microbiology (1975)
G. Roland Vela
Fellow American Academy of Microbiology & Emeritus Professor of Microbiology
* Roland Vela,born in Eagle Pass,Texas, September 18, 1927 to Marcial Vela Bermea and Maria de
Guadalupe Muzquiz de la Garza.
* Raised in San Antonio,Texas; attended public schools and volunt� fnr cPrv;rP in U $
* In 1953,married Emma Lamar Codina Longoria, children Jerry, Anna Maria, Yolanda,Jaime
*Attended UT Austin: B.A., 1950; M.A., 1951; Ph.D., 1962; all in Microbiology and Biochemistry.
*Worked for the City of San Antonio; Southwest Foundation for Research, San Antonio,Texas; Harvard
University,Boston,Massachusetts; School of Aerospace Medicine,Brooks Air Force Base,Texas.
--� * Professor of Microbiology University of North Texas,35 years; Associate Dean of Science&Technology,
College of Arts& Sciences, 5 years.
*Published 75 research papers;textbook,Applied Food Microbiology* and Lab. Manual,Laboratory for
Applied Food Microbiology; several"Guest Editorials' Denton Record-Chronicle,Denton, Texas..
* More than 100 invited seminars in American and Foreign Universities
* Directed research of 44 Masters and 20 Doctoral Students plus undergraduates and post-doctoral fellows.
* Chrm.Univ. Tenure Committee; Pres Campus AAUP; Committee of Fourteen; Faculty Senate;Faculty Grieva
* Discovered bacterium that was eventually named Paenibacillus velaei by P. Sukplang and A. Thongmee
* Served on Research Peer Review Committees:National Research Council;American Society for Microbiolog,
National Institutes of Health;National Academy of Science;Howard Hughes Medical Institute;Department
of Education;U.S.Army Chemical Corps; etc.
* Member of the American Society for Microbiology for more than 56 years and also the Society for General
Microbiology,London; Canadian Society of Microbiologists,Montreal; Sociedad Mexicana de Microbiol,
Mexico City; Sociedad Colombiana de Microbiologia,Bogota,etc.
* 1975 - 1978 President,Texas Branch,American Society for Microbiology,Distinguished Service Award
* 1978 - 1987 Editor Texas Journal of Science
* Member of Alpha Chi Sigma, National Chemistry Honor Society and Phi Kappa Phi, Honor Society.
* Visiting Professor: The University of Texas at Austin; University of Barcelona; University of Granada,
University of Chihuahua; University of Nuevo Leon;Universidad Nacional de Columbia,Fulbright Senior
Fellow,Bogota Columbia, 1980 Lifetime Distinguished Professor,Microbiology,Colombian Government.
* Consultant for Frito-Lay; Campbell Soup Co.;A. H.Halff and Associates; Oceanography International; W. J.
Smith Wood Preserving Co.;Fisheries Ministry of Thailand; Fort Worth Independent School District. Etc.
*Retired from the University of North Texas June, 2000.
* Co-chair College of Arts and Sciences Emeritus Faculty Council, 5 years.
* Included in University of North Texas Oral History Project.
* President's Council, University of North Texas
* Boards of Directors: Flow Medical Foundation; Anne's Haven Hospice; Denton County Cooperative
Agency; Our Daily Bread(meals for the indigent).
* Member of several City of Denton Boards and Commissions; C ' A' ort Adviso Board.
* Member of the Denton City Council.
* Board of Directors of the Texas Municipal Power Agency, 11 years
*Listed as one of the outstanding 100 Texas Latinos of the 20te century by Texas Latino Magazine.
* Published, after retirement:
The Men Named Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna, 2003
Bernardo de Gdlvez Spanish Hero of the American Revolution 2006
* Currently working on book of the Muzquiz family of Spain, Mexico, and Texas.
* In retirement: Grandfather; Author; Private pilot; Chess player; Wood worker; Traveler; Talker;
Businessman meek&mild; and Amateur intellectual.
*This may be the only textbook published by a commercial publisher for a member of the Biol.Dept.Faculty in its
entire history.
Denton Record-Chronicle
t1urday, May S, 2010
In honor of Galvez
Former professor to visit Spain
By Les Cockrell
Region Editor
A retired University of North G. Roland
Texas professor is scheduled to Vela,an
travel to Spain to help pay trib- authority on
ute to a Spanish hero of the Bernardo de
American Revolution. Galvez,a
G.Roland Vela will join other Spanish hero r
members of the founding chap- of the
ter of Granaderos y Damas de `"=`' American
Galvez in a series of ceremonies Revolution, is
and activities that will include a shown in the
visit to the Royal Palace in uniform of
Madrid and a ceremony in the
Macharaviaya, the hometown Granaderos y
of Bernardo de G61vez, who Damas de
helped the American colonies } Galvez,at his
secure their independence by home on
leading Spanish forces against ' '> Ridgecrest
the English. Street in
Vela will be accompanied by ' , ^ ' Denton on
Ws wife,Emma Tuesday.
See VELA on 7A - DRC/AI Key
-The king gave them 20 uni-
forms"Vela,said. "New people
who come in now have to make
Uvez's victories against the the uniform themselves."
From Page IA British opened up vital supply The group typically boasts
` lines that helped ensure the 20 to 25 members,Vela said.
Ve I a I colonists'eventual success,Vela "They go to parades and visit
said.In addition to the victory at schools, he said. "They visit
"The largest part of the rea- Mobile,Galvez also led Spanish military installations. They're
son we are going to Madrid lies forces in successful campaigns active,and their objective is to
with a book I wrote,Vela said. in Florida and Louisiana,secur- make people learn about
Vela is author of Bernardo de mg access to the Mississippi Galvee
Gdlvez, Spanish Hero of the, River and allowing friendly Vela will wear a uniform
American Revolution forces to supply Washington's when he and fellow Granaderos
pub- army. participate in activities planned
fished by Acacia Press in 2006. 'Me British had closed all in conjunction with next week's
A lot of Americans are not ports,Vela said. "They had a visit,including an audience with
aware of Galvez or his contri- noose around the American Crown Prince Felipe.The prince
butions to the American colonies. is an authority on Galvez,Vela
Revolution, Vela said, because "The Americans couldn't said.
the Spanish leader is not
included in many US. h depend on their own supply. On their visit to Galvez's
depend Spain and France supplied a birthplace, members of the
books. lot." group will lay the cornerstone
"He was really a super guy"Vela said "I was fascinated by The more he learned about for a new monument to the him."
Galvez and Spain's role in the Spanish hero.
His interest in the Spanish war,Vela said,the more deter- During his lifetime, Galvez
mined he became to write on held many important posts,Vela
hero began one evening several
th
Years ago when Gilvez was e subject said,includin serving as gover- J 0
mentioned in a television pro- Spain's decision to help the nor of the Louisiana e J
colonies was a difficult one, e p c schools- in
gram he and his wife were `
watching.
Vela said,and under other cir- Louisiana know all about him,
cumstances
"We had never heard of him," ,the Spanish might Vela said."He's in their history
Vela said."We had no idea who have opposed their quest for books.
00ks n
they were talking about" independence. Galvez continued his govern-
"It was a complex war"Vela went service after peace was
Vela began searching for n' declared between England and
more information about Galvez,
but the typical sources were no said."it was a world war,actually' Spain.
help,he said. The fact that Galvers role in He went to Spain, then 'y
"I looked in encyclopedias, the war was largely ignored by came back to be viceroy of M.c�
and his name wasn't there. I most Americans in the years Mexico,"Vela said.
looked in history books,and his that followed the revolution Galvez died at age 40 in
name wasn't there,"he said. (was understandable,Vela said. Mexico City, Vela said. The
Vela stepped up his search by "The English didn't like him, herds heart was returned to his
checking documents at UNT so their American cousins did- hometown for burial.
and other resources,and at last, et either." Vela retired from UNT 10.
he struck pay dirt. It took Vela three years to years ago as a microbiology
"There's a lot of information complete his book,but its pub- professor.During his tenure,he
about Giilvez," he said. "The lication brought him an inter- served as the associate dean for
Library of Congress has a lot of estinghonor from the Order of science and technology for five
documents on his role in the Granaderos y Damas de Gal- years.
Revolutionary War." vez,an organization founded in He has written several books,
Galvez was honored with a San Antonio in 1975 to inform including a microbiology text-
U.S.postage stamp in 1980 on the public about Spains contri- book, but said he especially
the 200th anniversary of the butions to the American Re- enjoys writing biographies.
Battle of Mobile,one of his vic- volution. "I'm not writing my own
tones against the British. "They made me honorary autobiography,"he said."I write
governor,"he said. constantly.I enjoy writing."
Vela said some historians g° ,
contend that the Battle of This will be the groups sec- He and his wife have visited
Mobile was the most important and visit to Spain,Vela said.On Spain several times, but this
battle of the American Revolu- their first visit many years ago, trip will have special signifi-
tion. members were given an audi- canoe,Vela said.
"Many historians agree that, ease with Bing Juan Carlos. "This will be something
had it not been for Galvez,the that's going to last,"he said.
British would have won,"Vela LES COCKRELL can be
said. reached at 940-566-6887.His
e-mail address is lcockrell@
dentonmcom.
IO CITY
F
DENTON215 E. McKINNEY•DENTON, TEXAS 76201 •(940) 349-8307•FAX(940)349-8596
CITY MANAGER'S OFFICE
March 25, 2011
Denton League of United Latin American Citizens
3925 Maggie's Meadow
Denton, TX 76210
Dear Sirs:
We have received your request to rename the South Branch Library in honor of Dr. Rolondo
Vela as a means of recognizing his many contributions to the Denton Community. As we
undertake review and evaluation of your request I thought it would be helpful for you to have a
copy of the current City policy regarding the naming of Library facilities. That policy provides
information as to both the naming guidelines and the naming process. itionaUy I have
( requested staff to consider other alternatives that ro riate for the recognition you seek
Again, T wanted you t+o have this material as we begin our review of your request and may
contact you for additiona orma ion in a near Tiifure. If you have other questions or desire
of er assistance at this time please let me know. I would be happy to visit with you further.
S' cer
F d eene
ssistant City Manager
Attachment
cc: George Campbell, City Manager
Eva Poole, Library Director
l
"Dedicated to Quality Service"
www.cityofdenton.com
CITY OF DENTON
NAME NOMINATION FORM
Naming or Renaming of Parks, City Facilities or Specific Facilities to Recognize an
Individual, Organization or Other Entity
Please type or print clearly in ink and return to:
• Department of Parks and Recreation (for all Parks or Recreation Related
Facilities)
• City Hall (for all other Facilities)
I. Date of Submittal:
II. Individual or Organization Submitting Nomination:
Denton LEAGUE OF UNITED LATIN AMERICAN CITIZENS
Council 4366
III. Address: -7. �O L A C L=,
City, State, Zip: t?Af ,, -I-X
Telephone: ( ) - 3s�`,r- 4g-5 8
III. Signatur f Nominee or Organizati -epresentative:
V. Nominee (Check one): Individual Organization
VI. Nominated Name/Organization: G. Roland Vela, Ph.D.
VII. Number of Years Nominee Lived in Denton: 45 years
VIH. Recommended Name of FaciIty:
IX. Facility Location:
X. Explanation of why this individual/organization should be considered. (This
information will be used by the City Staff and/or Parks, Recreation and
Beautification Board to determine the basis for their decision). Use additional
sheets if necessary.)
The wonderful community life we enjoy in our great city would be impossible to
achieve without the active participation and service of our citizens. Dr.Vela, better
known to his friends as Roland or Rolando, recognized the value of community
See below for Ms. Aukerman update on outcome of Rec and Parks Board meeting yesterday
evening. Bottom line: no decision for now.
What happens next:
1.) the Board's renaming committee will meet to consider the renaming of South Lakes Park;
Not sure if this will be discussed in the Oct 3 regular meeting of the entire Board or not.
2.) The Renaming Committee will present their recommendation to the entire Board in Nov
71h meeting.
Rosemary and I will be away celebrating our anniversary and not available to attend the Oct 3,
Rec & Parks Board meeting, but can attend on Nov 7.
In meantime, you can inquire on progress of our proposal by calling Mary Aukerman in the City of
Denton, Dept of Parks and Recreation at 349 8748.
FOLLOW UP
You, of course, have the option of continuing your advocacy for Roland V. nomination by calling
or emailing members of the parks and recr board, as follows:
Derrick Murray, Chair, 214 929 7790 email: derrickmu(a)_verizon.net
Carol Brantley 387 email: carolbrantley(cDgmail.com
V icki Byrd 382 9941 email: vitbyrd(a.verizon.net
Alex Lieban 383 4311 email: alieban(cDverizon.net
Dave Rowley 565 9332 email: d.rowley1(cwerizon net
Janet Shelton 387 2412 email: iwshelton(overizon.net
Jennifer Wages 387 0341 email: jenniferwages(c�hotmail.com
City of Denton Staff Liaison:
You may want to send copies of your email Mr. Vorel, City Director of parks and rec.
Emerson Vorel 349 7460 emerson.vorel(cDcityofdenton.com
Mary Aukerman 349 8748 mare.aukerman(cDcitvofdenton.com
See attachment for members of the City Council in case you want to contact them as well.
Keep me posted on what you find out.
Rudy
391 9764 cell
From: Aukerman, Mary E. [mai Ito:Mary.Aukerman@cityofdenton.com]
Sent: Tuesday, September 20, 2011 10:00 AM
To: 'Rudy'
Subject: FW: Rec and parks meeting
Rudy,
At the regular Park Board meeting, the renaming committee set their meeting for October
in order to get the matter the consideration they feel it deserves. They will present their
recommendation to the entire Park Board at the November 7th meeting. I'm sorry it is not
as soon as you may have anticipated but it is a process and it does take time. I will let
you know if I hear anything different.
Thanks for your patience.
Mary
From: Rudy [mailto:rrodriguezl445@verizon.net]
Sent: Tuesday, September 20, 2011 7:50 AM
To: Aukerman, Mary E.
Subject: Rec and parks meeting
Mary, let me know as soon as you find out decision of the Rec and Parks Board RE: the Vela S.
Lakes Park proposal.
Your help is greatly appreciated.
Rudy
PARKS, RECREATION AND BEAUTIFICATION BOARD
2010-2011
Council Home Office Original Present
Place Member Home Address Telephone Telephone Appointment Term
1 Vicki Byrd 2512 Timber Trail, 76209 382-9941 453-4603 [C] 7/2009 2009-11
2 David Rowley 3012 Pennsylvania Ct., 76205 565-9332 391-5727 [C] 4/2010 2010-12
d.rowleyI@verizon.net
3 Derrick Murray 4516 Rhone Dr.,76226 214/929-7790 214/840-5522 7/2009 2010-12
derrickmu@verizon.net
4 Carol Brantley 1525 Churchill, 76209 387-2569 ---- 7/2006 2010-12
5 Alex Lieban 2208 Parkside Dr., 76201 383-4311 597-8720[C] 7/2010 2010-12
alieban@verizon.net
6 Jennifer Wages 2508 Glenwood Ln., 76209 387-0341 565-6459 7/2007 2009-11
7 Janet Shelton 4 Timbergreen Cir., 76205 387-2412 940/300-4119 [C] 7/2009 2009-11
jwshelton@verizon.net
Staff Liaison—Emerson Vorel
* Chair
Members appointed for 2-year terms
Advisory Board
Members must be resident property taxpayers
NOTES: Tues, Aug 30 phone visit with Ms. Mary Aukerman, Management Assistant, Parks and
Recreation Dept. If you need to call Mary, her office phone is: 349 8748.
1 .) The meeting date of Parks and Recreation Board has been
changed from SEPT 12 to SEPT 19, Monday, 6 pm —
WHERE: Civic Center on Bell and McKinney, Civic Center Conference Rm. —if group is too
large, meeting will be moved to Rotunda Room, Civic Center
TIME: 6 pm
2.) Notice requesting public comment on proposed name change of South Lakes Park has
been posted. l found two signs at South Lakes Park.
3.) Line up of presenters supporting the change of name. This is an incomplete list.
1.) Dr. Isabella Hinojosa, LULAC Pres
2.) Mr. Jerry Vela, Vela Family Representative
3.) Jorge Urbina, President, Denton Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (need ok from Jorge to
add his name)
4.) Dr. Don Smith, LINT Vela Colleague (talked to Don earlier today. He has agreed to help
us.)
5.) Others will follow, including Popo Gonzalez, Roberto Calderon, also friends of Roland yet
to be contacted
More on planning for this important historical event at our LULAC meeting on Sept 17`h
Also, suggest no need for meeting on Sept 8 to plan for the presentations to the city park & rec
board.
Rudy
LULAC Chair, Vela Park Nomination Task Force
NOTICE OF MEETING FOR
PUBLIC COMMENT
Notice is hereby given that the C
Parks and Recreation Department
of Denton
a meeting to receive public co ment on hold
quest to rename a ark propertya re-
p
Hobson Lane, Denton, Texas aft located at 556
er G. Roland
Vela, at the Parks, Recreation and Beautifica-
lion Board meeting on Monday, September 19,
2011, at 6 p.m, at Denton Civic Center, 321 E.
McKinney St., Denton, TX 76201. For more in-
formation, pleae contact Emerson Vorel, Direc-
tor of Parks and Recreation at (940) 349-8745
or by email at parksnrec@cit),ofdenton.corn
From: Calderon, Roberto [mailto:beto@unt.edu]
Sent: Thursday, June 30, 2011 1:54 AM
To: Rudy; 'Calderon, Roberto'; 'Dr. Frank R. Perez'
Cc:jorge@texstar.us; Hinojosa, Isabella Pina; 'dorothy martinez'; 'jerry vela'
Subject: Meeting Summary I Dr. G. Roland Vela Naming Committee 129 June 2011
Gente,
Here are the minutes or summary of the meeting held today, Wednesday, June
29, 2011, with City of Denton officials to explore naming and/or renaming
possiblities of a facility in honor of Dr. G. Roland Vela.
We felt coming out of the meeting that the city officials, Greene and Vorel, had
prepared for the meeting and had offered a viable and well thought out list of
possible sites to name or rename in honor of Dr. Vela.
I urge Rudy and Frank to please feel free to add and/or correct any of the
statements or misstatements I may have made in my telling and recounting of
the meeting.
The minutes are attached in a Word file.
Adelante,
�edosrte
Committee to Name a City Facility in Honor of Dr. G. Roland Vela
Denton LULAC Council 4633
Meeting: Wednesday, 29 June 2011, Denton City Hall
Present: Fred Greene, Assistant City Manager, City of Denton, Texas; Emerson Vorel,
Director, Parks & Recreation Department, City of Denton, Texas; Dr. Frank Perez,
LULAC Council 4633; Dr. Rudy Rodriguez, LULAC Council 4633; Dr. Roberto R.
Calderon, LULAC Council 4633.
Meeting Started: 4:05PM
Meeting Ended: 4:40PM
1. Mr. Fred Greene opened the meeting noting that because of the protocols in place
to rename the South Branch Public Library, it would be next to impossible to rename the
facility after Dr. G. Roland Vela. Thus, he and his staff had put together a series of
alternative sites that might be named or renamed after Dr. Vela instead. Mr. Greene
stated that they had read closely Dr. Vela's biography and noted that his association with
the field of biology was one they had paid close attention to in developing the list of
alternative sites to consider naming or renaming in his honor.
2. Among the options or alternative sites presented were the following:
First, the Civic Center Pool. The facility has basically never been named the city
(� I officials stated. Dr. Rodriguez mentioned the Collins Complex's water park and
natatorium in light of this option, but Mr. Greene responded that the natatorium is
administered by the Denton ISD, in which case this would add an additional layer or
process of negotiation that would have to be negotiated. Point taken.
Second, South Lake Park (which has two lakes and is in the southside of Denton
�Z_ J where Dr. Vela and his family have long resided).
Third,the as yet unnamed "Adult Soccer Complex"which has yet to be built.
There is an engineering firm that's been hired already to develop a plan for this future
3 facility.
He and Mr. Emerson Vorel emphasized that many of those expected to use the
facility when it is finally or eventually built would be "Hispanics" because of the soccer
leagues organized and existing in the City of Denton. These soccer leagues currently use
one field each in two other city parks including Mack Park and Denia Park. The current
soccer fields in North Lakes Park are not available to adult soccer leagues because the
Denton Soccer League currently administers the children's and youth leagues on behalf of
the city. The city maintains the fields but the Denton Soccer League administers the
programs doing everything from recruiting players,teams, to charging fees for
participating, and hiring of referees, etc.
Queried as to when the as yet unnamed "Adult Soccer Complex" might be
operational, neither city official could or would offer a definite date. They cited the
current state of the city's budget and the economy as factors to consider, and since the
park would be built with bond funds, then the city would have to either find new money
with which to complete the complex or take funds from existing parts of the city budget
to pay for the same. However, both officials cited that the City of Denton was committed
to making this "Adult Soccer Complex" a reality and that the hiring of the engineering
firm to develop plans for it already was an indication of the city's intent to follow through
with its construction.
In addition, both Mr. Greene and Mr. Vorel noted that because the technically
unnamed "Adult Soccer Complex" has yet to be named, it is always easier to come in at
the beginning with a name for it and have it approved than is the case with sites that have
already been named. It looked like to us that the city officials were enthusiastic foLlbis
particular venue ov ear ist of possible alternative sites. Asked
w e er e Adult Soccer Complex" would have restroom facilities, the response was in
the affirmative
Mr. Greene noted that the question with the plans being developed by the
unnamed engineering firm that's been hired to develop said plans for this facility,
depending on the as yet changing funding variables affecting the process (its construction
and completion), the facility might have eight fields, or, he said, it might have as few as
four fields. Mr. Greene also noted in response to our questions that North Lakes Park
may or may not be located in North Lakes Park, as they'd mentioned earlier. They
wouldn't commit to saying that North Lakes Park would be the final site for its
construction. But they-did affirm that it was their view that the site would be built in due
course. This much, they noted, the city is committed to doing.
Fourth,the possibility that the newly built park called Briercliff Park could be
I renamed after Dr. Vela. They spoke the praises of this new park facility and Dr.
1 Rodriguez and Dr. Perez added that they'd seen it from a distance and so forth. It is a
relatively small park apparently located next to a relatively new subdivision. The facility
has a soccer field, baseball field, shelter, and so forth.
Fifth, the city officials had apparently consulted with the city's library
1 administration because they noted that a particular collection within the South Branch
J Library could be named in honor of Dr. Vela. Thus they pointed out that since he was a
scientist, a Science collection could be named in his honor, or, better still, there's a new
Children's Section that's being built or will soon be built at the South Branch Library.
They noted that the new Children's Section will have walls that muffle the sound so that
other patrons at the library are not subjected to the energy and bustle (noise?)that
excitable children are apt to make. They specifically said that this new section of the
South Branch Library might be called the "Dr. Vela Children's Library."
These were the five options presented at the meeting by Mr. Greene and Mr.
Vorel. They were quick to indicate that regardless of which site was eventually the one
y� Crocedures
o bear the name of Dr. Vela, that it would be necessary to follow the established
and protocol in the naming or renaming process of the particular facility.
Thus, if it were one of the parks,take Briercliff Park, said Mr. Greene by way of example
only, then you would have to prepare the pertinent application and submit it to them,
Greene and Vorel,who would then present it to the respective city commission, the Parks
c fi and Recreation Board, in this case, or in the case of a library facility, the Library Board,
etc. There would then a hearing process for those who were for or against the naming
and/or renaming of the facility involved. Altogether, there would also be a sign posted in
the chosen "park" or other facility for a period of 90 days (or was it 45 days?) alerting or
informing all concerned of the proposed naming and/or renaming,whatever the case
might be. Understood, everyone agreed.
Dr. Rodriguez used the opportunity to tentatively speak strongly jaavogof
pursuing ere aming o the Sou various alternatives presenied.
Mem comnuttee thanked the city officials for the work they'd clearly
undertaken to prepare for the meeting and coming IQ the meeting with a carefully
considered list of options for the naming of_aTa-c-i-l-ity in honor of Dr. G. Roland Vela. Dr.
Ro stated that there would be great pride taken in the Latino community al having
such a facility as South Lakes Park after Dr. Vela, etc. He also stated that Dr. Vela had
an extensive network of friends and supporters who could be brought into the process to
support the renaming of the South Lakes Park in honor of Dr. Vela. Although, Dr.
Rodriguez added, most of these would be older residents of the City of Denton who
remembered the many civic contributions that Dr. Vela had made to the city, etc.
Mr. Vorel offered a word of advice at this point. He stated that he had wide
experience in negotiating the naming and/or renaming of city facilities. His most recent
experience was one in which a park was renamed after a deceased young Iraq War
veteran. He noted that he'd taken a lot of criticism for supporting that campaign. That
those opposed had even brought up the question of the renaming of the park as negative
because in the future the park might draw many Veteran's Day or Memorial Day events
to the facility. Thus, Mr. Vorel noted that it would be easier to name a park or other
facility that has yet to be named rather than rename one which already has a built-in
constituency in favor of keeping the facility named as is, etc. Point taken.
_Q Finally, Mr. Greene asked that LULAC Council 4633 please proceed to establish
what he called a "priority list," in which we could list our first, second,and third options,
D for example. That when we were ready to proceed to please make these available to he
iand Mr. Vorel. They would then steer the application to the next appropriate levels of the
process. Agreed.
/ Dr. Rodriguez inquired of Mr. Vorel when the next meeting of the Parks and
Recreation Board was scheduled to take place. Mr. Vorel said that typically the Parks
and Recreation Board meetings the first Monday of every month but that the Board
would not be meeting in July. That their next scheduled Board meeting then would be
the first Monday of August 2011. Given this, Dr. Rodriguez suggested that maybe we
would be looking to come before the Parks and Recreation Board by the scheduled
September 2011 meeting. It was explained that Mr. Greene and Mr. Vorel would
(appreciate having about one month's advance notice on the paperwork or application per
the case to ensure that the materials are circulated to all involved. Agreed.
If you wish to see a list of the parks and trails available and maintained by the
City of Denton go to the following link: URL:
http://www.cityofdenton.com/index.aspx?page=645.
Respectfully submitted,
Roberto R. Calder6n, Ph.D.
Thanks all for supporting the nomination of Dr. Vela for name of a local Denton site.
As we previously discussed with the Vela family and in the Jan 11 meeting of J. Vela, R.
Calderon, F. Perez and R Rodriguez with Mayor Burroughs, our group will be pursuing the
naming of the soon to be constructed soccer facility at North Lakes Park in honor and in
recognition of Dr. Vela's many contributions to the city of Denton and UNT. See note below from
Councilman Roden for an update on the plans for the soccer facility.
I will be out of town for Board of Trustees meeting. Let's plan a meeting of our task force soon
after I return for further discussion and follow up on the LULAC proposal.
Rudy
940 391 9764
From: Roden, Kevin P [mailto:Kevin.Roden@cityofdenton.com]
Sent: Thursday, February 02, 2012 9:24 PM
To: rrodriguez1445@verizon.net
Subject: Update on soccer facility
Dr. Rodriguez -
In an earlier email, you asked for an update on the constructions plans for the upcoming
soccer facility at North Lakes Park. Here are the details I have just received from Mr.
Vorel...
Here is a proposed timeline for the construction of soccer fields at North Lakes Park.
* February 21. 2012 Council Work Session. Parks will discuss with Council our request
to use $250,000 from the Tree Mitigation Fund to help purchase 26 acres on the north
side of North Lakes Park. This property would be used for four new soccer/rugby fields.
Moving the fields onto this property would allow Parks to preserve the area currently
identified for these fields as a permanent natural area. Staff has begun negotiations
with the owners and a sale price has been identified.
* Parks will work to purchase property and hire a design firm simultaneously.
* April 3, 2012. Design contract on Council Consent Agenda.
* Fall 2012. Design complete for Phase I and ready for groundbreaking.
* Fall 2013. Phase I construction complete.
It is our intent to use the funds currently available to construct the entry road, a parking
lot, four fenced, irrigated, and lighted fields with a temporary restroom facility.
Construction of a permanent restroom/concession facility will be part of Phase 1I and will
required additional funding.
Sent from my Wad
f
i
The right decision
The Parks, Recreation and Beautifica-
tion Board did the right thing by rejecting
the proposal to rename South Ickes Park.
Mr. Vela has, I am sure, done a lot of
admirable things in the city of Denton that
are worthy of recognition.But one of them
was not being actively involved in the cre- 1
ation of South Lakes Park. t
Maybe he should be recognized by nam-
ing the airport in his honor, or naming a 1
City Council room "The Vela Room,"or a f
biology lab at UNT in his honor, but to a
honor him in a way that connects him to a
project in which he has never been directly
or indirectly associated is at least uncaring
and unappreciative of the dozens of citizens S
who did participate in the building of this
park h
So many area citizens gave so much time l\
and money during the initial construction rr
that it would be ludicrous to pick only one h
name. tl
The second and maybe most important tl
reason to not name the park or any other
facility after Mr. Vela or any other living a
person can best be stated in simply remem- a
bering what has just happened at Penn h
State and the "legendary" Joe Paterno or h
Houston's Enron Field a few years back E
Park boards, city councils and school
boards would do well to consider this in si
developing their naming policies. rE
Gerald Slater, n
J (" i t Denton in
Renewable Pn----- hE
Group suggests new name I Denton Record Chronicle I News for Denton County, Texas I ... Pagel of 5
1
ests new name
Local LULAC chapter asks city to add Vela to South Lakes Park
11:49 I'M CUT on Friday,October 14,2011
By Lowell Brown/Staff Writer
Roland Vela has several claims to local fame.
The first Hispanic elected to the Denton City Council, Vela had a distinguished career as a
microbiology professor at the University of North Texas. He even has a species of bacteria named for
him.
Still, few people know or fully understand the depth of his contributions to Denton, said Don Smith, a
longtime friend.
DRC/David Minton
The Denton Parks and Recreation
Department is considering a request to
rename South Lakes Park after Roland
Vela, shown at the park Thursday in
Denton.
View larger More photos Photo store
"He is one of the most underappreciated citizens of this town," Smith said.
Smith and others hope to change that.
The League of United Latin American Citizens' Denton chapter is asking the city to rename South
Lakes Park after Vela, 84,who lives in the nearby Southridge neighborhood. Under the proposal,the
187-acre park on Hobson Lane would be officially known as G. Roland Vela South Lakes Park.
Supporters say the change would honor a worthy resident and inspire young people to greater success
and civic involvement.
l "I think that he makes a wonderful role model," said Linnie McAdams, a former council member who
joined prominent residents in signing the renaming proposal. "Seeing his name [on the park] would
bring inspiration and hope to younger people—and Hispanics in particular—that might encourage
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Group suggests new name I Denton Record Chronicle I News for Denton County, Texas I ... Page 2 of 5
them to seek higher education and a more active participation in city government, rather than thinking
their voice doesn't count."
The proposal is pending before the city's parks board, which could vote as early as Nov. 7. The City
Council would have the final say.
Public opposition has been scarce, but city parks director Emerson Vorel said people contacting his
department have expressed mixed views.
"We've gotten a lot of a-mails and phone calls on both sides of this"after inviting public comment,
Vorel said. "The recurring theme [from opponents] seems to be, `By all means find something to
attach his name to, but let's make it something other than South Lakes Park."'
Some residents are emotionally attached to the park because they helped fund and build the Eureka
playground there in 1994. Opponents seem to have nothing against Vela; they just don't want the
park's name to change, Vorel said.
Rudy Rodriguez respects that viewpoint but disagrees.
"This is a democracy, and certainly all views are welcome," said Rodriguez,who led the LULAC
committee that recommended the name change. "We're going to stick with South Lakes Park."
City parks officials offered South Lakes Park as one of the potential naming options, and LULAC
committee members latched onto it because of the park's prominence and proximity to Vela's home,
Rodriguez said.
"I think this is a first step in acknowledging the contributions of leaders who have stepped forward
from the Hispanic community so they can serve as mentors for other people who want to step
forward," said Jorge Urbina, a Denton lawyer and community leader.
Vela became the first Hispanic elected to the council in 1979. He served one term but spent another
decade as a Denton representative on the board of the Texas Municipal Power Agency, a partnership
among Denton and three other cities. He also served on the city's airport board, among other
community boards.
Many of his accomplishments were unheralded or forgotten over time, said Smith, a longtime UNT
botany professor who has known Vela for 48 years. For example, when TMPA was building its power
plant in southeast Texas, Vela successfully fought to stop costly amendments to the construction
contract, Smith said.
"Roland stopped a lot of bad things from happening, and his accomplishments were significant,"
Smith said. "He's as incorruptible as anyone I've ever met. If he thought something was right, it
didn't matter what the opposition was."
For Vela,the recognition would be nice, but it would mean a lot more if the renaming inspired young
people, he said.
Vela grew up in San Antonio among a large Hispanic population,but he's lived in places where
Hispanics felt left out because of their small numbers, he said.
He has lived in Denton since 1965, and Latinos now make up 21 percent of the city's population.
http://www.dentonrc.com/sharedcontent/dws/dre/localnews/stories/DRC_velapark_l 015.... 10/23/2011
Group suggests new name I Denton Record Chronicle I News for Denton County, Texas I ... Page 3 of 5
"Kids today tend to think that if you don't sing or dance or make a lot of noise,you'll never amount to
anything," Vela said. "Something like this will show them that you can be quiet and do your job and
do it well, and people will notice."
LOWELL BROWN can be reached at 940-566-6882. His e-mail address is lmbroI4,nQ,dentonrc.com.
G. ROLAND VELA
Age: 84
Born in: Eagle Pass
Lives in: Denton
Family: married Emma Lamar Codina Longoria in 1953; they have four children, seven
grandchildren and two great-granddaughters.
Education: University of Texas at Austin(B.A., 1950; M.A., 1951; Ph.D., 1964)
Title: emeritus professor of microbiology, University of North Texas; fellow,American Academy of
Microbiology
Career highlights: U.S. Navy, 1945-46;UNT microbiology professor, 1965-2000; elected to the
American Academy of Microbiology, 1975; published 75 research papers, a textbook and a laboratory
manual; directed research of 44 master's and 20 doctoral students; discovered and studied a new type
of bacterium with doctoral students.
City service highlights: Denton City Council, 1979-80; Texas Municipal Power Agency board, 11
years; Denton Airport Advisory Board, former chairman
Other: named one of Latino Monthly magazine's top 100 Texas Latinos of the 20th century in 2000;
authored biographies of Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna and Bernardo de Galvez.
SOURCE: Roland Vela, staff research
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Rudy
From: Emma Guzman - Ramon [emita74@gmail.coml
Sent: Friday, October 21, 2011 M5 PM
To: vltbyrd@verizon.net, d.rowley1@verizon.net, derrickmu@verizon.net-, carol bra ntley@g mail.com-,
alieban@verizon.net, stukel@unt.edu; jwshelton@verizon.net, mark.burroughs@cityofdenton.com;
kevin.roden@cityofdenton.com-, jim.englbrecht@cityofdenton.com; chris.watts@cityofdenton.com,
Dalton.gregory@cityofdenton.com-, james.king@cityofdenton.com; pete.kamp@cityofdenton.com
Subject: Letter supporting renaming of park in honor of Dr. Roland Vela
Good evening Hon. Mayor Burroughs,members of the Denton City Council and members of the
Denton Park and Recreation Board:
I hope that this email finds you in good spirits.❑ I also hope that you kindly read my email
supporting the renaming of the South Lakes Park to the Dr. Roland Vela park.❑
As a Hispanic student of Denton High School graduating in 1992 and continuing my education at
the University of North Texas, I do have to express my feelings to you and hope to be heard.❑
As some of you will recall, I served on the planning and zoning committee a few years back and
was active in the local community before having to move for work related reasons.❑ As you
mgiht recall also, my mother still resides in Denton with my sister Yolanda Guzman living just a
short distance away in Allen.❑ It is because of these close connections that I have to Denton that
I dare write this email to you.
I did not grow up in Denton, my family having moved from Dumas to Denton my junior year in
high school.❑ However, I claim Denton home and am still very connected to the Hispanic
community there.❑ Growing up in the panhandle, I had no role models as Hispanics seldom
graduated high school,much less continued onto higher education.❑ When we moved to Denton
I could not believe how many people were in a position to guide me and help me get through
school.❑ 1 was very happily surprised when I went to UNT and low and behold I had Hispanic
professors.❑ Dr. Norma Williams inspired me tremendously as a professor as well as Dr. Rudy
Rodriguez and Dr. Gloria Contreras as mentors.❑ I have no doubt I would have graduated
college as that was my goal, but having these professionals there to help me, counsel me,
encourage me and guide me through definitely made the journey more bearable.
I know Dr. Roland Vela as an acquaintance only[]and don't claim to know him personally.El
However, I know that he,just as Dr. Williams, Dr. Rodriguez and Dr. Contreras were there to
help me, he was there to help those before me.❑ I also know that seeing Latinos rewarded with
having a city building/landscape/park means the world to people who were like me,wanting to
find someone that could relate to my background, to my culture.111 know the Hispanic students
not only in high school but at the university level as well, will be encouraged and humbled by
renaming the park.❑
I'm sorry this email is so long, as an attorney, I guess what could you expect, right?❑ However,I
do thank you for taking the time to read this and hope that you will take my small voice into
account by honoring Dr. Roland Vela in this manner.❑ Should you have any questions please do
not hesitate to contact me either by email or phone at 210-412-6966.❑ Thank you again for your
time,
Emma Guzman-Ramon
10/21/2011
X. Explanation of why this individual/organization should be considered. (This
information will be used by the City Staff and/or Parks, Recreation and
Beautification Board to determine the basis for their decision). Use additional
sheets if necessary.)
The wonderful community life we enjoy in our great city would be impossible to
achieve without the active participation and service of our citizens. Dr. Vela, better
known to his friends as Roland or Rolando, recognized the value of community
service since first coming to Denton over 45 years ago. He further understands the
value of community relationships and community building. These values he
exemplified through his work and service in a number of City of Denton Boards and
Commissions. His most notable contribution to the citizens of Denton was during his
service as the first Latino elected member to the City Council in 1979. His
leadership qualities and deep- felt commitment to community betterment were
further demonstrated during his tenure as either an officer or member of the:
Board of Directors of the Flow Medical Foundation; Anne's Haven Hospice; Denton
County Cooperative Agency; Our Daily Bread (meals for the indigent); Board of
Directors of the Texas Municipal Power Agency (11 years); Airport Advisory Board
(served as Chair).
In addition, Dr.Vela,as Professor of Microbiology,contributed enormously to.
elevating the statusof the University of North Texas over the 40 years of service to
that great educational insti"on, as noted in his professional vita (see attached).
Now retired from UNT, he remains active as an Professor Emeritus through"his
research and publications. He has also retained his membership in the prestigious
American Academy of Microbiology. -
It is due to Rolando's legendary devotion to the City of Denton and values that are
at the core of the Denton community that the League of United Latin American
Citizens submits this nomination. Replacing the name of the SOUTH BRANCH
LIBRARY with the new namesake, Dr. G. ROLANDO VELA, would be a fitting
reminder to all present and future citizens who serve our City and those who avail
themselves of our City services of the standard for the academics and civic
involvement that he set during his long tenure of service to Denton and the
University of North Texas and his expectation of excellence.
V. Names of persons or supporting groups responsible for nomination:
Dr. ISABELA PINA HINOJOSA, President, LULAC March 21,2011
Mr. JERRY VELA (Dr. Vela's son) March 21,2011
Dr. JORGE URBINA, President, Denton Hispanic Chamber
Of Commerce March 21, 2011
Dr. RUDY RODRIGUEZ (UNT colleague) March 21, 2011
Dr. ROBERTO CALDERON (UNT colleague) March 21,2011
1 DENTON
l LULAC COUNCIL #4366
9 AGENDA ...11/19/2011
I. Welcome - Pledge/Prayer- Roll call/Introductions DRC Public Announcement: 11.12.2011
II. Approval of Minutes- Lizeth Acevedo LULAC chapter unfazed
Group to continue push for Vela's name for park
III.Treasurer's Report -Anita Martinez-Strickland 10:46 PM CST on Saturday,November 12,2011
By Lowell Brown/Staff Writer
IV. Guests—Dr. Taylor:Voter Registration Forum Members of the Denton LULAC chapter aren't giving
V.Standing Committee Reports up their push to name South Lakes Park after former
City Council member Roland Vela,even after the city
-G. Roland Vela-Southlake: Dr. Rudy Rodriguez parks board rejected the idea.
V. Old Business TAMAL tasting today! The council-appointed Parks,Recreation and
Holiday Lighting Festival, Friday, Dec.2 Beautification Board voted unanimously and without
discussion Monday to deny LULAC's proposal to
5:30-9:30 p.m. TAMAL tasting today! rename the park G.Roland Vela South Lakes Park.
-Officer Nominations
-STAAR Campus (Robles DISD) checks? http://www.dentonrc.com/sharedcontent/dws/dre/localnews/stories/DRC
lulac 1113.296310482.html
VI. New Business
-Officer Installations Dec, 101h @ Rudy's
- Membership dues to be pd Dec 101h = $40.00 ea
,ill. President's Report _
- Proceed to stand firm -
- Dec. 10—Holiday Gathering& membership @
Rudy Rodriguez'—3925 Maggies Meadow
-January 21—leadership of our new President,Dr. Seto Calderon
VII. Motion to Adjourn at
November 7,2011
Citizens for Roland G.Vela-Southlakes Park
@ Denton Parks&Recreation Sub-Committee Mtg
2012 President: Dr. Roberto"Seto" Calderon
2012 OFFICER Elections today for: 2011 OFFICERS
President Elect: Anita Martinez-Strickland President-Dr. Isabella Pina-Hinoiosa
Secretary: Sonia Sturdivant
Treasurer: Blas Daniel Hinojosa President Elect: Dr. Roberto "Beto"Calderon
Sgt at Arms: Dr. Frank Perez
Parliamentarian: Dorothy Martinez Secretary: Lizeth Acevedo
Treasurer: Anita Martinez-Strickland
Parliamentarian Blas Daniel Hinoiosa
WebMaster Kevin McGinnis
L.U.L.A.C. Council #4366, P.O. Box 981, Denton,TX 76202-0981
www.dentoniulac.com www.dentonlulac.org
Isabella, Roberto and members of the LULAC Vela Nomination Task Force
1.) Rep Roberto Alonzo can join us on Sat. He will be promoting the Mexican American
Democrats Annual Convention, in Dallas Dec 16 and 17.
2.)Left invite phone message for Gen Robert Sanchez to join us as well. He is campaigning
for U.S. Senator on Democratic ticket.
3.)Met on Friday with Asst City Manager Fred Greene and Director of Parks and Rec,
Emerson Vorel.
They asked if I could meet with them. Major discussion items:
After hearing me out Regarding frustrations with process and disrespect of our group & Dr. Vela,
discussion moved on to following:
1.) City Council is planning to review and act on policy Regarding a rule requiring person to
be dead 3 yrs before his/her name is considered for city facility/park site...
2.) This policy will be considered in Jan 10 meeting.
3.) It will be recommended by the Greene and Vorel that the LULAC Vela proposal, since it
was submitted before the new proposed policy, that it be considered by the Council for a
site or park (not South Parks) to be determined at later time.
MY SUGGESTION: Too many intangibles. We need not wait for the Jan 10 City Council
meeting. We need to start proactive pressure work next week by meeting with Mayor Burroughs
and Mayor Pro tem Kemp. We decide in advance what we would like in place of S. Parks for
Vela namesake, e.g., Civic Center, Denton Airport.... and be sure Council acts on our proposal.
What do you think? I can schedule meetings with Burroughs and Kemp.
Rudy
Isabella, Roberto and members of the LULAC Vela City Site Nomination Task Force
1.) Rep Roberto Alonzo can join us on Sat. He will be promoting the Mexican American
Democrats Annual Convention, in Dallas Dec 16 and 17.
2.)Left invite phone message for Gen Robert Sanchez to join us as well. He is campaigning
for U.S. Senator on Democratic ticket.
3.)Met on Friday with Asst City Manager Fred Greene and Director of Parks and Rec,
Emerson Vorel.
Major discussion items:
After hearing me out Regarding frustrations with process and disrespect of our group & Dr. Vela,
discussion moved on to following:
1.) City Council is planning to review and act on policy Regarding a rule requiring person to
be dead 3 yrs before his/her name is considered for city facility/park site...
2.) This policy will be considered in Jan 10 meeting.
3.) It will be recommended by the Greene and Vorel that the LULAC Vela proposal, since it
was submitted before the new proposed policy, that it be considered by the Council for a
site or park (not South Parks) to be determined at later time.
MY SUGGESTION: Too many intangibles. We need not wait for the Jan 10 City Council
meeting. We need to start proactive pressure work next week & before Jan 10`h by meeting with
Mayor Burroughs and Mayor Pro tern Kemp. We decide in advance what we would like in place
of S. Parks for Vela namesake, e.g., Civic Center, Denton Airport.... and be sure Council acts on
our proposal.
What do you think? I can schedule meetings with Burroughs and Kemp.
Rudy
S�
* 1929
2012
Request to
Name the new Soccer Field Complex
to
Dr. G. Roland Vela
SUBMITTING DR_ VELA'S NAME
Denton League of United Latin American Citizens Council # 4366
NOMINA TION of
DR. G. ROLAND VELA
As the Name of the SOCCER FIELDS COMPLEX
At North Lakes Park, Denton, Texas
Submitted to: DENTON CITY COUNCIL
Date of Submission: July 10, 2012
Individual or Organization Submitting Nomination:
Denton LEAGUE OF UNITED LA TIN AMERICAN CITIZENS, Council 4366
Mr. Jerry Vela, son of Nominee, and Ms. Yolanda Vela, daughter of Nominee
Denton LULAC Contact: Dr. Rudy Rodriguez, Chair, Denton LULAC Task
Force, Vela Nomination for Name of City Facility
3925 Maggie's Meadow, Denton, Texas 76210
Telephone: (940) 565 9507, cell: (940) 391 9764
Email: rrodriguezl445(alverizon.net
Committee Members: Popo and Lupe Gonzalez, Dorothy Martinez, Dr.Gloria
Contreras, Dr. Isabela Pina, Blas Daniel Hinojosa, Anita Strickland, Alfred Sanchez, Dr.
Frank Pdrez, Jerry Vela, Yolanda Vela
Simtht r r n" ation Rep sentative:
Pres I
dent, Dentof Council # 4366
Nominated Name: G. Rolando Vela, Ph.D.
Number of Years Nominee has Resided in Denton: 45 years
Recommended Name of Facility:
DR. G. ROLAND VELA SOCCER COMPLEX at North Lakes Park
Why Dr. Vela should he considered.
The rich and diverse community life we enjoy in our great city was impossible to achieve
without the active participation and service of citizens. Dr. Vela, better known to his
friends as Roland or Rolando, recognized the value of community service since coming
to Denton over 45 years ago. He further understands the value of community
relationships and community building. These values he exemplified through his work and
service on numerous City of Denton Boards and Commissions. One of his most notable
contributions was as the first elected Latino to serve on the Denton City Council in 1979.
His leadership qualities and deeply-felt commitment to community betterment were
further demonstrated by his service as an officer or member of the following
organizations:
Board of Directors of the Flow Medical Foundation; Anne's Haven Hospice; Denton
County Cooperative Agency; Our Daily Bread (meals for the indigent); Board of
Directors of the Texas Municipal Power Agency(I l years); and the Airport Advisory
Board, where he served as Chair.
In addition, as Professor of Microbiology, Dr. Vela made major contributions to science
that elevated the status of the University of North Texas over the 40 years of service to
that great educational institution. Even in retirement, he remains active as an Professor
Emeritus through his research and publications. And, he has also retained his
membership in the prestigious American Academy of Microbiology.
It is due to Dr. Vela's legendary devotion to the City of Denton and values that are at the
core of the community that the League of United Latin American Citizens submits this
nomination. The naming of the SOCCER FIELDS COMPLEX at North Lakes Park in
honor of Dr. G. Roland Vela would be a fitting tribute to his work and recognition of the
high standards he set during his long tenure of service to the City of Denton and to the
University of North Texas.
PERSONS SUPPORTING THE NOMINATION:
Jorge Urbina, President
Denton Hispanic Chamber of Commerce
Maria Dudash
Angel Lopez
Tanya Martinez
Scott Stantlift
Maria T. Jimenez
Customer service and community service are core commitments at Lowe's Page 1 of 1
Customer service and community service are core commitments at Lowe's
Martinez, Tanya - Tanya [tanya.martinez@store.lowes.com]
Sent: Friday,June 08, 2012 11:42 AM
To: beto@unt.edu
Cc: Martinez,Tanya-Tanya [tanya.martinez@store.]owes.com)
Dr. Calderon,
To Lowe's being a good neighbor means being committed to improving the places our
employees and customers call home. We see that as an investment in our future. We
also realize our need to build stronger partnerships with the Hispanic Community in
our North Texas communities. Therefore, I am looking for your partnership in
searching for a community involvement project that will benefit the Hispanic
Community in our area.
For example, last year we remodeled an area in the Samaritan Inn in McKinney
benefiting homeless families in Collin County.
Best regards,
Tanya Martinez
2567 HRM
972. 963.4032
2773 E. Eldorado Pkwy
Little Elm, TX 75068
NOTICE:
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paper, or otherwise) . Thank you.
https://webmail.unt.edu/O WA/?ae=Item&t=IPM.Note&id=RvAAAABnOoJucNIVOLcG2... 6/12/2012
G. ROLAND VELA, Ph.D
COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES
City& County of Denton
■ American Civil Liberties Union(Life Member)
■ Boy Scout Troop Counselor
■ Dallas Metropolitan Philosophical Society
■ Denton Forum (40 yrs)
■ Firehouse Theater Group— Campus Theater
o Founding Member
■ Citizens' Committee on Traffic Safety
■ Civil Air Patrol
■ Airport Advisory Board
o Chair twice
■ Denton City Council (1979)
■ Board of Directors, Texas Municipal Power Agency(eleven years)
o Secretary Reassurer
o Finance Committee
o Personnel Committee
■ Board of Directors,Ann's Haven Hospice of Denton
■ Board of Directors, Our Daily Bread(meals for the indigent)
o Secretary
■ County Program Planning Committee
o Two terms
■ Denton County Cooperative Agency
■ Board of Directors, Flow Medical Foundation
G. ROLAND VELA, Ph.D
COMMUNITY ACTWITIES
OTHER:
■ Editorial Board, Rangsit University Journal of Science, Rangsit University, Bangkok,
Thailand
■ Retired, University of North Texas June 1965 to June 2000
■ Co-Chair College of Arts & Sciences
o Emeritus Faculty Council, 5 years
■ Included in University of North Texas Oral History Project
■ Included in University of North Texas, Austin Hispanic Ex Students who served in WWII
■ President's Council, University of North Texas
■ Listed as Outstanding 100 Texas Latinos of the 201h Century, Texas Latino Magazine
■ Published after retirement:
o The Men Named Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna, 2003
o Bernardo de Gdlvez Spanish Hero of the American Revolution, 2006
■ Currently working on the Muzquiz family of Spain, Mexico and Texas
In retirement: Grandfather; Great-grandfather; Author; Timid private pilot; timid chess player,
woodworker; bold talker; circular traveler; businessman meek & mild; Friday lunch philosopher;
and confused intellectual
G. Roland Vela, Ph.D.
Emeritus Professor of Microbiology (2000)
Fellow American Academy of Microbiology (1975) . . . see p. 3
Roland Vela. born Eagle Pass. Texas. September 18. 1927 to Marcial Vela Bermea and Maria de Guadalupe
Muzquiz de la Garza (Vela)
Raised in San Antonio. Texas.- attended public schools and Worked for the San Antonio Express and
San Antonio Light
Volunteered for service in U.S. Navy. R'\NTI
Attended UT Austin: B.A.. 1950.- M.A.. 19-;1: Ph.D.. 1962: Microbiology and Biochemistry
Married Emma Lamar Codina Longoria in 1953: children Jem-. Anna Maria. Yolanda. Jaime
Worked for the Cite of San .Antonio Public Health: Southwest Foundation for Research-. City of San .Antonio.
Texas; Harvard University. Boston. Massachusetts: School of Aerospace.Medicine, Brooks Air Force
Base. Texas
Professor of Microbiology, University of North Texas, 35 rears: Associate Dean of Science&Technology.
College of Arts & Sciences. 5 rears
Published 75 research papers: textbook.Applied Food Microbiology* and Lab. Manual. Lobormon•_fbr
.4pplied Iood NficrohioloT-: several "Guest Editorials" Denton Record-Chronicle, Denton. Texas
More than 100 invited seminars in American and Foreign Universities
Directed research of 44 '.blasters and 20 Doctoral Students plus numerous undergraduate and post-doctoral
felloW-s.
Chaired Committee that wrote UNT Tenure police, Chaired Tenure Committee tNyo;terms: Pres Campus AAUP.
Committee of Fourteen-. Faculty Senate: Faculty Grievance Committee
Served as Faculty Advocate for many Faculty Members threatened With dismissal by UNT
Discovered bacterium that was eventually named Paenibacilhis veloei by P. Sukplang and A. Thongmec
Ser ed on Research Peer Rev-ieW Committees of the National Science Foundation.- National Research Council:
.American Society for Microbiology: National Institutes of Health: National Academy of Sciences:
Howard Hughes Medical Institute. Department of Education.- U.S. Army Chemical Corps:etc.
Member of the American Socict\ for Microbiology for 59\ears: Societe for General Microbiology. London.-
Canadian Societe of Microbiologists. Montreal: Sociedad Mexicana de Microbiologia. Mexico Cite*:
Sociedad Colombiana do Microbiologia. Bogota, Colombia: etc.
1975 - 1978 President. Texas Branch. American Societe for Microbiology: Distinguished Sennce Award:
emeritus member
1978 - 1987 Editor. Texas Journal of Science
Organized UNT Hispanic Conference«-hick created The G. Roland Vela Award: later Hispanic Friends of
the Uniyersit\,
Member of Alpha Chi Sigma. National Chemistry Honor Societe and Phi Koppo Phi. National Honor Society
Visiting Professor: The Uniyersit-, of Texas at Austin.- Uni\ersity of Barcelona: Univcrsit\ of Granada:
University of Chihuahua: University of Nuevo Leon.- Uniyersidad National de Colombia
Fulbright Senior FelloW. BogotA Columbia,
1980 Lifetime Distinguished Professor. Microbiology.. Colombian Government.
Consultant for Frito-Lay; Campbell Soup Co.: A. H. Halff and Associates: Oceanography International-. W. J.
Smith Wood Preserving Co.: Fisheries Ministry of Thailand, Bangkok. Fort Worth Independent School
District. Etc.
Retired from the University of North Texas June. 2000.
Co-chair College of Arts and Sciences Emerinrs Faculh Council. 5 years.
Included in University of North Texas Oral Histor Project-
Included in University of Texas. Austin Hispanic Ex Students Who served in WWII
Presidents Council. University of North Texas
Boards of Directors: Flow Medical Foundation: Anne*s Haven Hospice.- Denton County Cooperative Agency.-
Our Daily Bread(meals for the indigent)
Founding Member. and actor. Firehouse Theater
IW VlTe ) 1_�
PP
44
Nearly 2,000 distinguished scientists Academy of Sciences. Dozens have been honored with
have been elected to the American Academy of Nobel Prizes, Lasker Awards, and the National Medal of
Microbiology in its 50-year history. Chosen for this Science. More than 500 Fellows are actively involved in
honor by their peers,they have been elected on the all facets of the Academy,including guiding the highly suc-
basis of their scientific excellence, originality, and cessful colloquium program. Fellows of the American
leadership; high ethical standards; and scholarly and Academy of Microbiology embody the most exciting
creative achievement. Fellows represent 40 countries minds in the science. Due to the depth and breadth of
and all subspecialities of microbiology.They have built their scientific expertise,Academy Fellows are uniquely
exemplary careers in basic and applied research,teach- qualified to provide the very best advice in microbiology.
ing, public health, industry, and government service.
Over 300 members of the American Academy of
Microbiology have been elected to the U.S. National
Ph.D. STUDENTS GRADUATED
Dr. Gerald Dean Cagle
Exec. Vice President Research Dr. Morris Crum
Alcon Laboratories Morris Crum Testing Laboratory
Fort Worth.Texas Dallas,Texas
Dr. Raoul Simon Rosenthal, Jr. Dr. Joaquin Moreno
Professor of Microbiology Professor of Microbiology
Indiana University School of Medicine University of Alicante
Indianapolis. Indiana Alicante, Spain
Dr. James Ray Ralston Dr. Massoud Mahmoudi
Head,Product Water Quality Control American Post-doctoral Fellow
Sterilizer Company Univ. of Texas Health Sci. Res. Center
Los Angeles. California Dallas,Texas
Dr. Jung Fu Wu Dr- Gogu S.Reddy
Research Group Leader Staff Scientist
Cornell University Tulane University,
Ithaca,News York New Orleans, Louisiana
Dr. Wavne Riley Barnes Dr. Juan Manuel Sanchez Yafiez
Sr. Research Scientist Professor of Microbiology
Abbot Laboratories Institute for Nitrogen Fixation
Chicago, Illinois Irapuato,Mexico
Dr. Solomon Lare Aladegbami Dr. Virginia Guadalupe Nevarez
Chief of Research Laboratories Escuela de Ciencias Quimicas
Tarrant Co. Medical Center Universidad de Chihuahua.
Fort Worth,Texas Chihuahua, Mexico
Dr. Charles Slung Chang Dr. Miguel M. Castro Arroyo
Professor of Microbiology Biosynthesis, Inc.
Fu Jen University 225 Main Street
Taipei.Taiwan Lewisville,Texas
Dr. Joel Escamilla(Captain) Dr. Acharawan Thongmee
Head, Microbiology Services Associate Dean
U. S.Navy,Pacific Area Rangsit University
San Diego, California Bangkok, Thailand
Dr. Anthony Henry Gonzalez Dr. Patamaporn Sukplang
Clinical Microbiologist Associate Professor and Director
Portland General Hospital Thailand Research Institute
Portland, Oregon Bangkok. Thailand
Dr. William F. Fleming III
Head. Mycology Section
Mayo Clinic
Minneapolis,Minnesota
Dr. Terence A.Johnson
Chairman, Biology Department
Uruversit'c Uf Northern Tennessee
Memphis, Tennessee
a
I
Roland Vela, in uniform of Spanish Grenadier of the XVIII Century,
presents copy of his book on Bernardo de Galvez to His Highness,
Don Felipe, Crown Prince of Spain; Royal Palace,Madrid, 6-13-2010.
i09
Roland Vela receiving Bernardo de Galvez award
for his book Bernardo de Galvez, Spanish Hero of
the American Revolution.
Benjamin Lyon DAR Chapter Invites Prospective
Members to October 8th meeting
VAednesday.06 October 2010 12.301 r.N•'ntlen by Cathenne Giles
The Benjamin Lyon Chapter of The National Society of The Daughters of the American
Revolution will meet 1:30 p.m.,Friday.October 8,for a social followed by their 2:00 p.m.monthly
meeting at Good Samaritan Village.2500 Hinkle Drive in Denton
Members Sharon Casey. Rose Harpool. Becky Washam, and Sharon Lundsford will host the
events. Author Dr. Roland Vela will present a program entitled.'Bernardo de Galvez:Spanish
Hero of the American Revolution-- Women. 18 or older,who are interested in learning more
about prospective membership in DAR or in Benlamin Lyon Chapter. are invited to attend.
To RSVP;to learn more about prospective membership which is open to any woman 18 or older.
regardless of race,religion, or ethnic background,who can prove lineal blood descent from a
patriot who aided in achieving American independence; or to learn more about assistance
available to help prospective members document proof, please contact Diana White at
d1cwhite0charter.nct or 940-387-4741
THE DENTON' RECORD-CHRONICLE Page IIC
IN COLOMBIA
NT Doctor Awarded Lectureship
�I= S
r or G Roland Vela of ire-.tat nqula,JfdeWn,Cdombra.Iciudd<elerlluo by a Falbrial.: Tp STSL mlcmblalo u 11!-;ntl»nalioe to Culmold.
Nona Taaa 51.1. Urd—_-tyl -1 n"ill be fry`=ID WarDRlners rmnmissisa sad a n-rye dray hen tr Imm his Neu blrowf Dunlevor said. 'The
bce!ogral sriehtces faculty trwit., umwr_•nsi iaabiol.*,;�.ssvremehlsl brad aotl tu'maier.:l a±d uh:mseary he:Ur.:Ird Slaves murvdlr hzy.an
- been an-mted A Senio.tamvr by updalln; Ihel° _
t'utbnghl-Hayr LeCmrtshcp hPn al ens ors"resalch and: ue-1xi's. -rtsenU7 tdmpfeld al STSC.11!ecyhar._r Program rlh 15
:each a Calomah. Saalhlir-acdc, :a Ur field' Ix.; •-1 bare txsrn blob" 'play.1,,r>•.rr mxylhm,from r•mnhriix-.
uG' �'.•, mcienulo;r Ill'
' Amerb Ibism®er- I11{a aid.The learuueship bid; .jpamai In-stoic Ica atta.'_nrrn! nr te:a ..ill candun lane
.I rum ..I:.Ar,;.71. ]%'.m:rrahial nil clrc err.•. u
I.ne S a.laced t rare one • n I®g time mca Ile d Inorfs al the
•{ Ic achiw Ih laic!K*Y a a: Or.'\'eta tier cur Ihla!hlwx:n Spamsb"err adaN_' ^.q. : ,m 1!•ciorr and rni.xs?rc- ee for slp�Jlb.
In mivoNdagy m�y ad•amr ,_, 'm leafy'r�to bar'+to R4atrlh seidal men ~� ne feu I�Wf1l"an0 a lhlQ(:af
Dk f,.R0L4\D YT:IA sl odmts N tk f J djsoernin nmcmz+nbiM ire+n.•rl'aaN.' x my sunrmer salary aol a",cad 1.eali
7:n - _ I r 7 T� 1a1_ T _ 7 -
THE DENTON RECORD-CHRONICLE - Sanday,0a'tao"I.IrT.
I
Dr: Vela Does Lots Of Lecturing -
t• Dr.Gcard Road VcU N. of Rartelom to fire a series me LIMInIsily of Raccl lana. oiled to unite a paper far a oho waou toallmdNiSU u
the North Twos State UIIKttra ad aanm,n.He "f..11 lecture mostly an scientific .Journal fa a Dr—AInc r1i andeat.
r � Univcrs icy biologleal •ass im-Ild by the Unirer. Iheraeuch that'do h--' Colombia which win appear "'we reallymeruiled him to
z,intices deparlmeal has silY of Wredooa m becwne the NTSU professor said. in the January issue of the phY on the North Texas
l• bcm doing Ions en
of lecturing a yi s pratfsm'for the The lecima primarily w!n pablitetlon sf the lmulalo s ccer team," Dr. vela
s a - lately-mostly in SPalluh. 77r7 fl Windear.y .bar rrai contxna" malabaielp eo Ggranco "Aguslin I—
D, Vela Just returned unable :o because of papers that I and them Godiui,"The article Is Thc Young man.Alvam
- " frmn a thre 11,guest responsibilities nt him. graduate stdents,published eaHtled."Hioelhia:The -"-is-c...f8arrarsqudh.
! 1Kt.-hip i1 the N.11-1 where he sad _,_at
on the phsyialogy and the Need for a New Older- Colombia-•r1n enter NISU
f g Unircnny of Cdombh,h graduate atudems are morphology of the RT1ne h 1-1Amcio, after he cotnpeta same
P `„y 1 .mcotobacter vinclandi1.a Dr.Vela.his vile and their Eagltsh roam at Austin
fs gota,I,the miaabiolel' cagagd in mlasaaiobgio
ii deparI—al the medical aeamh. bacterium wt won wars four children made "Calkgcle Sherman-Ane""
achoal there. while in r Ductal;the tw�wKa!out a5th:' '-marvelous trip to the rmisna his Wracginetsing
Bogor.he aim Irtlurd at in Spain.Dr.Vein NI also During the Caiambiaa trip, Colombia.Amato He mining a1"T",Care lohn'
the t irenidad Jaser- lecture at the Ueleaa97 of made possible by a Semen said that they wed to a My a.coelloue hh mgheertng
.. anclat uric NaUaral Res.h !dad rid and Orc thfsedb f F'uilnifat Iecrmv A.ard, remote morn called Lett,, aunties at
Southern
Laboratory for Special Salamanca Ira Wd*Xhog Dr. Vela was made son where hey made many god htelhodtsl University- The
slues, me t em rip uU be Dr.Aft" honorary life member at the friends. young Colombian
i.
On tint-.ca.Dr.Vila will Ramos-Cormeniia. a Colombian society of The Velu brought back a c—Uy saying with Dr.
Dn.G.IL VELA ,ny to Spain..the Uoilc profesmrar mlmdbWtp at Alkmblologv. W_ vu to7ocmg man fro.Colombia i'ch and his hmily.
` Dames Club Meets
Society Elects Vela _
t ; Velar Host Christmas Party
u. R land \w era ee<ea tic
ybidenr d the Tefaa senrtch al 14t W�1CJ I A series h.,br Christmas he tub president ad nett is b.al eduki. art andfac Pat
Amerinn See h far Slicrnb" t floe newt' .rend have-era RNrtg the a mot me Belden, prtas a bush olidaf aft pound pot
+^logy+ Mlidi7 season for nrmobas cluirman. on Sc tdiday pv:b.
grwp's recent fell rtrceling I.Andin. j ne Ile North Teas State Atli Canton,a ullae of
L'niverfllp Danes Club. Sweden,presented st'da on As a clan pmysel,
r.V at mem-
Dila b been a member all .'forth Coueseling Center al Teas tyscr i j Dr.and Mrs,Roland Vela, tar nnllet lad and shooed belt made a Christina
Teas Stale Uoi—g aialgtiul srieaw z SOrs e c acet or the for S h Vlifactr. basket for a ned7 family In
fa�1y,tore f,r6.A cored IK1urer.be lass Uvir,yaiO_prrsentd a paper at the Prat T ! pbn Dean..
XTSU graeamamdbmxii d -Aanfher interest group,
detoured a series Uf lerturts a Rngaln and Nalia ]Canfrraco m the uses at the a their wires. hosted a arts and mfts, h b-Y A goarmel dinner is
m eareeloru.Spain %lye Wggs Tye Indicator told recently f_ Christmas party Saturday. making Christmas [Accrudfaall club mem-
tr pas a-o-&,d a femrsblp in the In, al the Uftl'orslly of F'l kbL r" Oo Dec. 1 Ux co n decuratbns.Couples'bridge bets in Jamury. Fund d
ember American Sacicdy w IY.1.Ne gourmet group held plavaisoevedervardming )lento.11 be fmlured.
b Amen. lu a Tulc if his taanNlotida pas "11g "swedisb Christmas" the holidays. Thc ladies'
veiny percentage
err the ITrhrPoulbn.t 1he -P smorgasbod. Hosterses_ e[erclft class,taught b)'Pal •I°ming m+uninxzitr
m8inugl ng•an palm Ca9� ere Mil,Jaale Candam Caldwell of the NTSII
Ia.gD uric 1 V s in me United Slats alapr Continuum oe Ilumahutea to Nalmd town liter Deacon n, not
'ra—eel acamleazhfng.resenicband Scierue._ ,1 1 • friends mays sincettyab kale
prulefaiotal attumplishmenly - i - rrieds ad farniry'behind.
Thc hl e-_Briggs Type Indicator iu a The North Texas Darns
lxmn psyr aglo -: �'• I Join In Carols Club is trying to help
simale D•p"one l rill Hest - gradhule students and their
which ideau;lo purples'favored modes err nrH.IND s}].y i - -a to adjml[o campus
DR.IUIIN T.DEI.FS QuR far d We perception sad judgment. tlewh4rlrl. ' Thursday Night �h
life ad to mesr thew•friends
- _ while in Denton;' Mm.
All clhtuns a:t Invited la join in candlelight caroling c d-esplarm.
I Thursday vtm Girl Scouts in Neighrpod 111.Cron oltwoR indudrAm
Tlmbr. Caurrd. tense" as did-fashloned Christ— Rced Pates hWarim;Mrs.
program on Ih!patio d city hall. Stuart Trntoni,
Sn,rhwrstcrmteic luminariu will light the patio. i Limns cbvi-m ales
Chartaee Ituenu,.a smmmt d Eugene Coult•.at North John LE er. membership;
Texas Stale Uni.vls4...itl Ie the o 11M ad 11 sing chairman: lilt aliekq
h -SF,,t fviow-in the zccurnpaci d ft-cla harp. Light sKreary;and 111-
M-Arm Harter ad Sandra Ha 11.r1 h,lrmfa d Thomas Saw-cer,termer. '
Ntghlnrhmd I I I.ayren lone u5ah tort u mom"residents as
P=bar join nim the Girt Scouts in this celebration of 'Anyone dishing further
Chtistmas unNmmd by the energy,mists or bluer wmM _tdotmtloa about the club
problems_ may d c.lu P-0.Rea,e6J.
- �cighhorhad ill eunampassa lhewntef rare a, may
AT SStan. Denton, T¢
Krum cammuNly and the Denton Scale$eim.L ��
We All Lived on Romana Street`
A patriotic essay written b)
Roland Vela-Muzquiz& Cesar Vela-Muzquiz
in remembrance of a time when men were patriots.for love of flag and country
and when we were all Americans first, Mexicans second and, when pressed,
Democrats. Our knowledge of the theory of political systems was limited to "
Republicans are the Rich Guys, Democrats are the Poor Cnrys. "
We did not possess the guile to ask "Why?".
D The text in this work is protected in its entirety by copyright and
by right of ownership of the authors. No one may copy or use
any part of it without previous,written permission from
Roland Vela-Miuquiz or his assignees.
Spring 2011
P.O.Box 51164
Denton,Texas 76206
Appendix 2. p. 1
WE ALL LIVED ONROALNA STREET
by Roland Vela-Muzquiz and Cssar Vela-Muzquiz
The houses were very old and stood side by side with little or no space for gardens,back yards or play areas.
It was a hard,dusty little street with almost nothing that could be counted as a positive attribute—but we loved it,
we were almost proud of it;it was,after all other considerations,our barrio, now we say,our Alma Maier. IaG*
de Romana lay deep in the oldest part of San Antonio, probably less than ten blocks from the historic Spanish
Cathedral built in 1731 by the ancestors of our ancestors ofthe family Muzquiz. Together with Kingsbury,California
and Belvin,West Romana must have been part of an impoverished blue-collar neighborhood—much as it was in
1935 when we lived there.
West Ehnira,West Euclid and Marshall were broad,paved streets lined with elegant,expensive houses with
St.Augustine grass lawns and attractive gardens(see last page,bottom right). The latter comprised an Anglo and
moneyed-Mexican neighborhood that bore the aura of gentility. In contrast to those on West Elmira,the houses on
West Romana seemed to have been built on lots that were halved and halved again until small oddly-shaped houses
filled every piece of open ground from North Flores to Camaron Street. We lived at 510 West Romana(see maps
on last page,top left and middle)in a small two-bedroom one-bath with less then 600 square feet of floor space on
a lot not larger than 25 x 50 feet. A store with living quarters above was hard by our west wall,and a two bedroom
with no water or sanitary services was immediately behind our house. On another small portion of the original lot
were a one-room apartment, a small grocery store,a store room and a storage garage. In brief,there were seven
structures on a lot no more than 50 x 70 feet.
While all the other streets had good asphalt surfaces and consequent clean environments,Romana was a
gravel street bathed in mud to a depth of several inches when it rained and a permanent cloud of white caliche dust
at all other times. Unlike the others,however, Romana was brimming with life—it seemed that each little house
contained one or more boys—and/or girls that added to the constant clamor of the neighborhood. Healthy,active
youths ranging in age from five to twenty filled the street. The boys had long established a unique order that lasted
from one generation to the next. The"Romana Rattlers"team or gang(?),bound us all to one another and to the
street. The Rattlers were a lose semi-gang that formed teams capable of competing successfully with those of other
neighborhoods in all athletic events that boys could think of. No initiations or secret words were required; if you
lived on Romana you were a Romana Rattler. In most instances we were better than the Riverside Katz,the Euclid
Eagles,Cantarana,La Piedrera and the Snake Hill Gang. Since half ofthese were Anglos,we grew up knowing that
movies and history were all wrong about physical prowess and who would win in any given contest.
Then a sudden shift in world politics brought severe changes to Romana Street. On December 7, 1941,
Romana Street stopped being the natural habitat of Romana Rattlers and became a national resource of boys/men
to serve our country in the coming war. The number of boys/men who served in WWII and Korea that lived in the
200 yards (wild guess) of West Romana should be noted by someone— by everyone. Every substandard and
misshapen little house contributed one or more men to the armed forces. There was a willingness,an urge—to serve
our country—to be part of the war—to defend our country in its hour of need. And most of us volunteered. We,
Cesar and I,were part of this cohort and we enlisted as soon as our ages permitted. Reluctantly,our parents gave
us up,Roland volunteered for service in the Navy at 17 and Cesar joined the Army at 18.
In the absence of a chronicler to tell the story of the boys from West Romana during WWII and Korea,we
have undertaken the task. We two brothers who were of Romana Street humbly assume we can do this. But if we
don't,we apologize for any and all errors and beg forgiveness. We think the data we show are fairly reliable,our
ages notwithstanding. Roland is 83 and Cssar 81 but we are still quick and alert in almost every respect.
It is our firm recollection that almost all the boys from every family that lived on West Romana served in
the armed forces. It is also our recollection that of all those who went,only two, Ramon Ramirez and Raymond
Mendez,failed to return. Both Ramon and Raymond enlisted in the Marine Corps and both were killed in action in
Korea. All the others completed their term of service and were honorably discharged at the end of the war—and
we did so without Ken Burns ever knowing we served our country. But we didn't serve to get our name on his list,
we went because our country needed us.
Unfortunately, Romana Street was an early victim of Urban Renewal. Seventy years later,we see that
Romana Street was replaced by Interstate Highway 35 and that the remnants of our street were cleaned,paved,curbed
and renamed Quincy Street. Lamentably,there is no commemorative plaque to describe the willingness of the men
who rose from there in the 1940s to answer the call to duty,and few are left who remember that Romana Street ever
existed. My brother Cssar and I wish to remind everyone that Romana Street existed and that it was,free of bravado
and easy patriotism,indeed a place of the free and a home of the brave.
LAST NAME FIRST(NICK NAME) EDUCAT. &COMMENTS SERVICE WAR
Rivas Daniel HS U.S.Navy WWII
Casillas Jimmy HS U.S.Navy Korea
Gonzalez Braulio HS U.S.Navy WWII
Mario HS U.S.Navy Korea
Adolph (Popo) HS U.S.Navy Korea
Lozano Ignacio (Nash) HS U.S.Navy WWII
Joe HS U.S.Navy WWII
Rogelio (Roy) HS U.S.Navy WWII
Eloy HS U.S.Navy Korea
Gomez Albert ? U.S.Navy WWII
Rend HS U.S.Navy WWII
Angel HS U.S.Navy WWII
Raul HS U.S.Navy WWII
Abel HS U.S.Navy WWII
Ruben HS U.S.Navy Korea
Gomez Mauricio (Wicho) ? U.S.Army WWII
Diaz Salvador HS U.S.Navy WWII
Pedro HS U.S.Army WWII
Ramirez Andrew (Butch) HS U.S.Navy WWII
Joaquin HS U.S.Navy Korea
Obledo Armando (Ongi) ? U.S.Army WWII
Jesus (Chief) HS U.S.Army WWII
Mike Survived sinking of USS Indianapolis U.S.Navy WWII
Mario Harvard Law; cofounder of MALDEF U.S.Navy Korea
Oscar HS U.S.Navy Korea
Quintanilla Oscar BA Trinity Univ U.S.Army WWII
Hector Director U.S.ARMY UFO Program U.S. Army Career
Manuel (Meme) HS U.S.Navy WWII
Pei3a Benjamin (Benny) HS U.S. Army WWII
Richard (Chichi) HS U.S. Army WWII
Vela Roland Ph.D., UT Austin; Prof. Microbiology U.S.Navy WWII
C6sar HS U.S.Army Korea
Sanchez Robert (Beto) HS U.S. Marines Korea
Mike HS U.S.Navy Korea
Edward HS U.S.Navy Korea
Suavia Adolph HS U.S.A.F. WWII
Rodriguez Jose Ma. (Chema) ? U.S. Army WWII
Rucobo Roy ? U.S.Anny WWII
Narro Mike German prisoner;married farm.daughter U.S.Army WWII
Mario HS U.S.Marines Korea
Mares Gonzalo (Cha) HS U.S.Navy WWII
Tomas HS U.S.Army Korea
Granados Joe (Joe Venado) HS U.S.Navy WWII
Raymond HS U.S.Marines Korea
Gonzales Henry (Yika) HS U.S.Navy WWII
Rend HS U.S.Army Korea
Orellana Fernando (Ferny) Art Scholarship and Art Commission U.S.Army WWII
Mario HS U.S.Army Korea
de la Rosa Isauro Scholarship to Art School in Dallas U.S.Army WWII
Jesus (Chichi) HS U.S.Army WWII
Mendez Raymond HS Killed in Action U.S.Marines Korea
Ramirez Raman HS Killed in Action U.S.Marines Korea
Castill6n Frank HS U.S.A.F. WWII
Raymond Tex.A&M..Architect. Own office U.S.Navy WWII
Del Rio Salvador HS U.S.Navy Korea
Romo Alfred HS U.S.Army Korea
Roger (Pee Wee) HS U.S.Navy Korea
Map of San Antonio in 1889 shows
Romana, Belvin, California and Kingsbury
e
Streets in what appears to be undeveloped
- : land between Camaron and North Flores. It
also shows that Elmira(added dotted line),
Euclid and Cadwallader had not yet been
extended west of North Flores.
Undoubtedly,the entire area between North
- X Flores and Camaron was in the San Pedro
Creek flood plain creating an undesirable
environment for any but very poor
dwellings. It appears that low income
- — families lived in this neighborhood from the
earliest days of street construction to the
1950s when the neighborhood was razed.
West Romana Street gave way to Urban
Renewal and much of it became part of the
athletic fields used by Tech High School. The $• N. MAIN-
small part of Romana Street that remained was �USTIN. (A►CE6lUlA)
added to Quincy Street and West Romana was E44k:MENT
removed from the map. The small x added to ~ It
i
both maps shows the approximate location of
our house: number 510 West Romana Street. -41 '
Immediately below is a photo of part �� 4
of our front yard taken during a rare snowfall. —-
This special event probably took place in 1936 I-35 N. FLQS_
or 1937. The two taller boys standing in our x TECM HIGH
front yard were our cousin from Mexico, i _StHOOLt
Alfonso Muzquiz Ortiz and Armando Obledo, c
Mario Obledo's oldest brother The two little ,
guys in front of them were Manuel Ramirez
and Pedro Diaz,whom we generally addressed ,
as Pittta, Pittta, Pittta a la Betty Davis.
Getting ready to fire a snowball in the background is Peggy
Pefla,daughter of our landlord. I am almost certain the man gy:
at the right edge of the photo is my father, Marcial Vela
Bermea,who was throwing snowballs with the best of us; \
he had been a fairly good baseball pitcher in his youth. It
was a festive day;we were let out of school,our Dad didn't
go to work, our Mom baked us apple pies and everybody
played in the snow until it all melted.
t f IF,
F !. Houses on West Elmira (above) built at the turn of the
Twentieth Century as they appear in 2011. The essence of
luxury and comfort still shows through the century of their
existence and contrasts sharply with the small, crowded
houses on West Romana(left).
August 21, 2012
Good afternoon Mayor Mark Burrough and members of the Denton City Council
I am Isabella Pina-Hinojosa a Denton resident for the past 36 years. Today, I represent the
Denton League of Latin American Citizens as President of Council #4366.
If you've researched and read about Dr. Roland G. Vela, you know that he was elected as the
first Latino member to the city Council in 1979 and continuously thereafter his leadership
qualities were further demonstrated during his tenure. Several community members of Denton
will share their thoughts of Dr. Vela's contribution to the City of Denton. Mine began as a
university student at North Texas State University in 1975. As our university sponsor to the few
Latinos on campus, Dr. Vela welcomed us by giving us hope to pursue our education in Denton
and stressing community involvement within the City of Denton.
His leadership served as a founding member of the Firehouse Theater Group, now known as the
Campus Theater that continues as one of Denton's historical features. Thereafter, Dr. Vela sat
on the Board of Directors for the Texas municipal Power Agency as Secretary Reasurer; Finance
Committee; and Personnel Committee during a period of eleven years.
G. Roland Vela participated with the Citizens'Committee on Traffic Safety and the Civil Air
Patrol. As a member of the Denton Municipal Airport, he was twice named Chair of the Airport
Advisory Board which advises the city council and/or city manager on airport operations to
include lease agreements, development policy, grant projects and/or the budget.
In addition to his civic involvement G. Roland Vela distinguished himself, highlighting the City of
Denton, as a honorary professor and elected to the Fellow American Academy of Microbiology
in 1975, an honor given to only 300 of the nearly 2000 distinguished scientists in a 50 year
history.
It is due to G. Roland Vela's legendary devotion to the city of Denton and values that are at the
core of the Denton community that the League of United Latin American Citizens requests
naming a soccer field complex after Roland G. Vela, a fitting reminder to all present and future
citizens who serve our city and those who avail themselves in our multiple city services of the
standard for academics and civic involvement during his long tenure of service to the City of
Denton and the University of North Texas with excellence.
Sin''l
Val
f
.subelta iha-Hinojuaa�r-'
LULAC Scholarship Chair
September 19, 2011
Good afternoon Chairman Murray and members of the Parks,
Recreation and Beautification Advisory Board:
I am Isabella Pina-Hinojosa a Denton resident for the past 36 years.
Today, I represent the Denton League of Latin American Citizens as
President of Council #4366 who submitted a nomination request to the
Denton city government to rename South Lakes Park to G. Roland Vela-
South Lakes Park.
The service of our citizens recognize the value of community service as
exemplified by G. Roland Vela prior to elected as the first Latino
member to the city Council in 1979 and continuously thereafter as his
leadership qualities were further demonstrated during his tenure.
Several community members of Denton will share their thoughts of G.
Roland Vela's contribution to the City of Denton. Mine began as a
university student at North Texas State University in 1975. As our
university sponsor to the few Latinos on campus, G. Roland Vela
welcomed us into his home giving us hope to pursue our education in
Denton and stressing community involvement with City of Denton.
I'll highlight a few of G. Roland Vela's contributions as listed on the first
attachment to the packet you've received. His leadership served as a
founding member of the Firehouse Theater Group, now known as the
Campus Theater that continues as one of Denton's historical features.
Thereafter, G. Roland Vela sat on the Board of Directors for the Texas
municipal Power Agency as Secretary Reassurer; Finance Committee;
and Personnel Committee during a period of eleven years.
G. Roland Vela participated with the Citizens' Committee on Traffic
Safety and the Civil Air Patrol. As a member of the Denton Municipal
Airport, he was twice named Chair of the Airport Advisory Board which
advises the city council and/or city manager on airport operations to
include lease agreements, development policy, grant projects and/or
the budget.
In addition to his civic involvement G. Roland Vela distinguished
himself, highlighting the City of Denton, as a honorary professor and
elected to the Fellow American Academy of Microbiology in 1975, an
honor given to only 300 of the nearly 2000 distinguished scientists in a
50 year history.
It is due to G. Roland Vela's legendary devotion to the city of Denton
and values that are at the core of the Denton community that the
League of United Latin American Citizens requests renaming South
Lakes Park to G. Roland Vela-South Lakes Park a fitting reminder to all
present and future citizens who serve our city and those who avail
themselves in our multiple city services of the standard for academics
and civic involvement that G. Roland Vela set during his long tenure of
service to the City of Denton and the University of North Texas with
excellence.
Sincerely,
Aa"44-
1. Ila Pi,-Hino�osa,Fd.D.
LULAC Denton Council President
AGENDA
CITY OF DENTON CITY COUNCIL
October 16, 2012
After determining that a quorum is present, the City Council of the City of Denton, Texas will
convene in a Work Session on Tuesday, October 16, 2012 at 3:00 p.m. in the Council Work
Session Room at City Hall, 215 E. McKinney Street, Denton, Texas at which the following items
will be considered:
WORK SESSION
1. Citizen Comments on Consent Agenda Items
This section of the agenda allows citizens to speak on Consent Agenda Items only. Each
speaker will be given a total of three (3) minutes to address any items he/she wishes that
are listed on the Consent Agenda. A Request to Speak Card should be completed and
returned to the City Secretary before Council considers this item.
2. Requests for clarification of agenda items listed on the agenda for October 16,2012.
3. Receive a report,hold a discussion and give staff direction regarding the intent to develop
a legal process for Tree Trusts as a mitigation option for the Denton Development Code,
Subchapter 35.13.7, and the creation of a Tree Fund Advisory Committee to make
recommendations on the criteria used to purchase properties, and suggest guidelines for
Tree Fund expenditures for community education, as well as planting new trees to
increase Denton's tree canopy.
4. Receive a report, hold a discussion, and give staff direction on the possible closure of
Nowlin Road.
5. Receive a report, hold a discussion, and give staff direction regarding the public
involvement process for upcoming DME Capital Improvement Projects (CIP).
Following the completion of the Work Session, the City Council will convene in a Closed
Meeting to consider specific items when these items are listed below under the Closed Meeting
section of this agenda. The City Council reserves the right to adjourn into a Closed Meeting on
any item on its Open Meeting agenda consistent with Chapter 551 of the Texas Government
Code, as amended, or as otherwise allowed by law.
CLOSED MEETING
1. Closed Meeting:
A. Deliberations regarding Real Property — Under Texas Government Code Section
551.072; Consultation with Attorneys — Under Texas Government Code Section
551.071.
1. Discuss, deliberate and receive information from staff and provide staff
with direction pertaining to the potential purchase of a tract of land,
located in the N. H. Meisenheimer Survey, Abstract Number 810, City of
Denton, Denton, County, Texas, and located generally in the 3800 block
of Elm Street south of Riney Road, and north of North Lakes Park.
City of Denton City Council Agenda
October 16, 2012
Page 3
these legal matters would conflict with the duty of the City's attorneys to
the City of Denton and Denton City Council under the Texas Disciplinary
Rules of Professional Conduct of the State Bar of Texas, or would
jeopardize the City's legal position in any administrative proceedings or
potential litigation.
B. Deliberations regarding Public Power Utilities: Competitive Matters — Under
Texas Government Code Section 551.086.
1. Receive a presentation from Denton Municipal Electric staff and a Texas
Municipal Power Agency ("TMPA") Board Member regarding public
power utility competitive, financial and commercial matters pertaining to
TMPA, a Joint Powers Agency, being a generation resource owned in
common by the City of Denton, Texas, which holds a 21.3% interest in the
same; including without limitation, plans, proposals, system
improvements, fuel contracting, fuel transportation contracts, other
contracting issues, the fixed and variable costs of operation of the
generation unit, and capital improvement plans for the generation unit.
Discuss, deliberate and provide Staff with direction.
C. Consultation with Attorneys—Under Texas Government Code Section 551.071.
1. Consult with and provide direction to the City's attorneys associated with
proposed enforcement related to sanitary sewer overflows and where a
public discussion of such legal matters would conflict with the duty of the
City's attorneys to the City of Denton, Texas and the City Council of the
City of Denton, Texas under the Texas Disciplinary Rules of Professional
Conduct of the State Bar of Texas.
2. Consult with the City's attorneys regarding the status and possible
resolution of pending litigation styled Steen v. Langford, et al., Cause No.
CV-2010-00528, now pending before the County Court at Law#2, Denton
County, Texas; and discuss, deliberate and provide the City's attorneys
with direction and any recommendations regarding such legal matter. A
public discussion of this legal matter would conflict with the duty of the
City's Attorneys to the City Council under the Texas Disciplinary Rules of
Professional Conduct of the State Bar of Texas.
ANY FINAL ACTION, DECISION, OR VOTE ON A MATTER DELIBERATED IN A CLOSED
MEETING WILL ONLY BE TAKEN IN AN OPEN MEETING THAT IS HELD IN COMPLIANCE
WITH TEXAS GOVERNMENT CODE, CHAPTER 551, EXCEPT TO THE EXTENT SUCH FINAL
ACTION, DECISION, OR VOTE IS TAKEN IN THE CLOSED MEETING IN ACCORDANCE WITH
THE PROVISIONS OF §551.086 OF THE TEXAS GOVERNMENT CODE (THE `PUBLIC POWER
EXCEPTION'). THE CITY COUNCIL RESERVES THE RIGHT TO ADJOURN INTO A CLOSED
MEETING OR EXECUTIVE SESSION AS AUTHORIZED BY TEX. GOV'T. CODE, §551.001, ET
SEQ. (THE TEXAS OPEN MEETINGS ACT) ON ANY ITEM ON ITS OPEN MEETING AGENDA
OR TO RECONVENE IN A CONTINUATION OF THE CLOSED MEETING ON THE CLOSED
MEETING ITEMS NOTED ABOVE, IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE TEXAS OPEN MEETINGS
ACT, INCLUDING, WITHOUT LIMITATION §551.071-551.086 OF THE TEXAS OPEN MEETINGS
ACT.
City of Denton City Council Agenda
October 16, 2012
Page 5
C. Consider adoption of an ordinance of the City Council of the City of Denton,
Texas, approving guidelines for operation of the City of Denton Home
Improvement Program and eligibility criteria; authorizing expenditures in excess
of$50,000 for projects meeting program guidelines and criteria; and providing for
an effective date.
D. Consider a request for an exception to the Noise Ordinance for the purpose of an
increase in decibels for amplified music for Fry Street's First Annual Wake
Poolooza, to be held between addresses 101-125 Avenue A, on Saturday, October
20, 2012, beginning at 3 p.m. and concluding at 10 p.m. This request is for an
extension of decibels for amplified sound from the allowable 70 to 75 decibels.
Staff recommends approving the amplified sound to 75 decibels.
E. Consider adoption of an ordinance of the City of Denton, Texas, amending
Ordinance No. 2010-293 prescribing the number of positions in each
classification of Police Officer; prescribing the number of positions in each
classification of Fire Fighter; providing a savings clause; providing a severability
clause; and declaring an effective date.
F. Consider adoption of an ordinance of the City of Denton, Texas authorizing the
City Manager, or his designee, to enter into an Interlocal Agreement with the
North Central Texas Council of Governments for the cooperative purchasing of
actuarial shared services associated with other post-employment benefits as
defined by Governmental Accounting Standards Board (GASB) Statement
Number 45;providing a savings clause; and providing an effective date.
G. Consider adoption of an ordinance of the City of Denton, Texas authorizing the
City Manager to execute a First Amendment to a Professional Services
Agreement by and between the City of Denton, Texas and POWER Engineers,
Inc. for Electric Design and Engineering Services pertaining to a substation siting
and environmental assessment study for the construction of the McKinney
Substation and the Audra Substation for Denton Municipal Electric; authorizing
the expenditure of funds therefor; and providing an effective date (File 4995—in
the additional amount of not-to-exceed $75,000 for a total award of $290,515).
The Public Utilities Board recommends approval (5-0).
H. Consider adoption of an ordinance approving the expenditure of funds for Outside
Metal-Enclosed Switchgears (OMCSWG) for the City of Denton Pockrus and
McKinney Substations available from only one source in accordance with Texas
Local Government Code 252.022, exempting such purchases from requirements
of competitive bids; providing for the expenditure of funds therefor; and
providing an effective date (File 5027—awarded to S&C Electric Company, in the
amount of$279,750). The Public Utilities Board recommends approval (5-0).
I. Consider adoption of an ordinance accepting competitive proposals and awarding
an initial one (1) year contract with the option to extend for four (4) additional
one (1) year periods for the Section 125 Plan Administration of unreimbursed
health care and dependent care accounts for the City of Denton; providing for the
expenditure of funds therefor; and providing an effective date (RFP 5047—
awarded to PayFlex Systems USA, Inc., in the annual estimated amount of
$62,118 and a five-year estimated expenditure of$310,590).
City of Denton City Council Agenda
October 16, 2012
Page 7
S. Consider adoption of an ordinance authorizing the City Manager to execute an
agreement between the City of Denton and the Central Business District
Association, Inc., d/b/a Denton Main Street Association for the payment and use
of hotel tax revenue; and providing an effective date. ($23,010) The Hotel
Occupancy Tax Committee recommends approval (3-0).
T. Consider adoption of an ordinance authorizing the City Manager to execute an
agreement between the City of Denton and Music Theatre of Denton for the
payment and use of hotel tax revenue; and providing an effective date. ($5,000)
The Hotel Occupancy Tax Committee recommends approval (3-0).
U. Consider adoption of an ordinance authorizing the City Manager to execute an
agreement between the City of Denton and the North Texas State Fair Association
for the payment and use of hotel tax revenue; and providing an effective date.
($73,620) The Hotel Occupancy Tax Committee recommends approval (3-0).
V. Consider adoption of an ordinance authorizing the City Manager to execute an
agreement between the City of Denton and the Susan G. Komen for the Cure
Advocacy Alliance (North Texas Affiliate) for the payment and use of hotel tax
revenue; and providing an effective date. ($10,000) The Hotel Occupancy Tax
Committee recommends approval (3-0).
W. Consider adoption of an ordinance authorizing the City Manager to execute an
agreement between the City of Denton and the Tejas Storytelling Association,
Inc. for the payment and use of hotel tax revenue; and providing an effective date.
($50,610) The Hotel Occupancy Tax Committee recommends approval (3-0).
X. Consider adoption of an ordinance authorizing the City Manager to execute an
agreement between the City of Denton and Texas Filmmakers' Corporation for
the payment and use of hotel tax revenue; and providing an effective date.
($5,000) The Hotel Occupancy Tax Committee recommends approval (3-0).
Y. Consider adoption of an ordinance fmding that a public use and necessity exists to
acquire fee simple to an approximate 3.480 acre tract located in the City of
Denton, Denton County, Texas, and situated in the M.E.P. & P.R.R. Co. Survey,
Abstract Number 1475, City of Denton, Denton County, Texas, as more
particularly described on Exhibit "A", attached to the ordinance and made a part
thereof, located generally along the 2500 block of East McKinney Street, (the
"Property Interests"), for the public use of expanding and improving electric
utilities; authorizing the City Manager or his designee to make an offer to (1)
Gary Dennis Dillard (the "Owner"); (2) successors in interest to the owner to the
Property Interests; or (3) any other owners of the Property Interests, to purchase
the Property Interests for the purchase price of Three Hundred Twenty Six
Thousand Two Hundred Eight Dollars and No Cents ($326,208.00), and other
consideration as prescribed in the Contract of Sale (the "Agreement"), as attached
to the ordinance and made a part thereof as Exhibit `B"; authorizing the
expenditure of funds therefor; and providing an effective date. (69kV
Transmission Line Re-build Project)
City of Denton City Council Agenda
October 16, 2012
Page 9
FF. Consider adoption of an ordinance finding that a public use and necessity exists to
acquire (I) fee simple to a 4.69 acre tract; (II) a utility and slope easement
encumbering 0.56 acre; and (III) a utility and drainage easement encumbering a
0.02 acre, said tracts located in the A. Tompkins Survey, Abstract Number 1246,
and located in the City of Denton, Denton County, Texas, as more particularly
described on Exhibit"A", attached to the ordinance, located generally in the 2400
block of South Bonnie Brae Street (the "Property Interests"), for the public use of
expanding and improving Bonnie Brae Street, a municipal street and roadway;
authorizing the City Manager or his designee to make an offer to (1) Harlan
Properties, Inc. (the "Owner"); (2) successors in interest to the owner to the
Property Interests; or (3) any other owners of the Property Interests, as may be
applicable, to purchase the Property Interests for the purchase price of One
Hundred Fifty Thousand One Hundred Sixty Three Dollars and No Cents
($150,163. ), and other consideration, as prescribed in the Purchase Agreement
(the "Agreement"), as attached to the ordinance and made a part thereof as
Exhibit "B'; authorizing the expenditure of funds therefor; and providing an
effective date. (Bonnie Brae Widening and Improvements project—Parcel 25)
GG. Consider adoption of an ordinance finding that a public use and necessity exists to
acquire (I) fee simple to a 5.59 acre tract; (H) a drainage easement encumbering
1.7 acre; (III) a slope easement encumbering 2.83 acres; and (IV) a temporary
construction, grading and access easement encumbering a 0.06 acre tract, said
tracts located in the William Roark Survey, Abstract Number 1087, James L.
Harris Survey, Abstract No. 555 and James Edmonson Survey, Abstract Number
400 and located in the City of Denton, Denton County, Texas, as more
particularly described on Exhibit"A", attached to the ordinance, located generally
in the 4500 block of South Bonnie Brae Street (the "Property Interests"), for the
public use of expanding and improving Bonnie Brae Street, a municipal street and
roadway; authorizing the City Manager or his designee to make an offer to (1)
Richard A. Gray, Jr. (the "Owner"); (2) successors in interest to the owner to the
Property Interests; or (3) any other owners of the Property Interests, as may be
applicable, to purchase the Property Interests for the purchase price of Three
Hundred Twenty Two Thousand Nine Hundred Nineteen Dollars and No Cents
($322,919.00), and other consideration, as prescribed in the Purchase Agreement
(the "Agreement"), as attached to the ordinance and made a part thereof as
Exhibit `B"; authorizing the expenditure of funds therefor; and providing an
effective date. (Bonnie Brae Widening and Improvements project—Parcel 39)
5. ITEMS FOR INDIVIDUAL CONSIDERATION
A. Consider adoption of an ordinance of the City of Denton, Texas authorizing the
City Manager or his designee to execute a Contract of Sale (herein so called), as
attached hereto and made a part hereof as Exhibit"A",by and between the City of
Denton, (the "City"), and Rayzor Investments Ltd., ( as "Seller") contemplating
the sale by Seller and purchase by City of a called 26.6002 acre tract of land
more or less, for the purchase price of One Million Dollars and No/100
($1,000,000.0), said Real Property being generally located in the 3800 block of
Elm Street south of Riney Road, and north of North Lakes Park, and located in
the N.H. Meisenheimer Survey, Abstract Number 810, Denton County, Texas;
(qZo t
See below for Public Announcement in Wed, Sep 14, Denton Record
Chronicle RE: the renaming of the City of Denton South Lakes Park to
G. Roland Vela South Lakes Park.
Instructions in prep for the Sep meeting with Parks
& Rec Board:
1. ) Good idea for all presenting testimonials in support of Roland
plan to arrive at the Civic Center Conference Rm (left of entrance)
about 5:45 pm, Sep 19th (Monday) . If group is too large, the meeting
will be moved to the Civic Center' s Rotunda area.
2. ) Be sure and pick up a card requesting Board permission to speak in
favor of the Vela nomination.
3. ) According to Mary Aukerman, City of Denton Administrative
Assistant, 4 minutes will be allowed for each Vela advocate to present
his or her comments. For more, call Mary at 349 8748.
4 . ) Regarding the order of presenters, let's ask Mary A. if we
could start with Dr. Isabela Hinojosa, LULAC Pres followed by
Jerry Vela, representing the Vela family.
5. ) President Hinojosa has called a breakfast meeting tomorrow, 6
am, Sat, Sep 17th, at El Chapparral on McKinney across Civic
Center, to talk more about coordinating the presentations.
Those who can attend, please join us. Otherwise, there should
be enough information above to prepare each presenter for the
Sept 19 meeting.
Here is the list of presenters:
Dr. Don Smith
Ms. Dorothy Damico
Dr. Roberto Calderon
Marilyn Mays
Dr. Isabela Hinojosa
Jerry Vela
Popo Gonzalez
Linnie McAdams
Keith Shelton
Thanks -
Rudy
RRodriguez
9764 cell
NOTICE OF MEETING FOR PUBLIC COMMENT
-Notice is hereby given that the City of Denton Parks and Recreation
Department will hold a meeting to receive public comment on a request
to rename a park property located at 556 Hobson Lane, Denton, Texas,
after G. Roland Vela, at the Parks, Recreation and Beautification Board
meeting on Monday, September 19, 2011, at 6 p.m. at Denton Civic
Center, 321 E. McKinney St. Denton, TX 76201. For more
information, please contact Emerson Vorel, Director of Parks and
Recreation at (940) 349-8748 or by email at
parksnrec@cityofdenton.com<mailto:parksnrec@cityofdenton.com>
7 ti
_ � N
7 - ~
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L ti
T -
IL
lK
_ - - - - -
Dr. Rudy Rodriguez
To the Members of LULAC Council 4366 who chose me for the honor of having a Denton
Public Recreation Facility in my name. I consider this honor one of the outstanding marks of my
life and I will cherish it always. I am sorry,the Parks and Recreation Board of Denton did not
agree with you as I would have liked to see a part of my community identified with my passage
through its roads and streets. It is part of human nature for a person to long to see his mark on
his land as he prepares to leave it at the end of a long life. Yet very few of us attain this secret
desire and while I thought that I might have the park named after me,I enjoyed the moment of
great personal pleasure. So it is really with heartfelt regret that having been so close I had to
accept being denied.
I know you labored long and hard for the benefit of our home, Denton,Texas, and I tried to
match those efforts with my own. Unfortunately we did not reach the level demanded by those
who judged us. This was something of a surprise to me in that previous experience has taught
me that your work is exemplary, as it was in this case. In addition, I have many instances of
superior work in many areas of endeavor and,I thought,my curriculum vitae would convince
even after a single reading. But, I am bound by the decision and I happily accept it as a final
word, I see no point in continuing with this quest.
Free choice is one of the major elements of our country and one I have never challenged. The
spirit of our society is augmented when each one of us is encouraged to pursue our daily tasks in
a free and confident manner with only our conscience as guide. I accept the decision of the
Authorities and I thank them for their efforts in considering me for this honor. I know their work
is difficult and onerous and I rest easy knowing they did it in the most diligent and honorable
manner possible to them.
Please accept my most sincere thanks for your efforts and know that I will gladly work with you
in any future service you may undertake for the benefit of our community.
G. Roland Vela
Emeritus Professor of Microbiology
Fellow American Academy of Microbiology
Rudy Rodriguez
jerry.vela@gmaii.com
gary.packan@cityofdenton.com
Subject: Two items
Hi Jerry,
An update from Gary in prep for the Wed, 11 am,ZOOM meeting, as follows:
1.) The sculptured statue will not be bronze.
2.) The art work will be less time consuming than the statue to produce. As you suggested, I told Gary your family
may favor the art work option.
3.) Gary has asked for a brief bio of your dad also for posting at the Vela Athletic Complex. I do have a complete file
I've compiled documenting our LULAC advocacy work in support of the Vela Park. My file includes your dad's
extensive bio. You can borrow if you'd like for reference in writing the bio material.
4.) Could you email a draft of the your dad's bio to Gary before our Wed 11 am meeting, say by Tuesday. This way
Gary will have time to review and can tell us if ok on Wed.
5.) Please feel free to call Gary at 817 819 3473 or his office, 940 349 7460.
6.) Let me know if I can be of any help.
Thanks!
Rudy
940 391 9764
i
In our feeling of loss and sorrow, let us not forget he touched so many lives...
He and Lupe were a lifetime member of the League of United Latin American Citizens and a passionate
advocate for strong famiilies, children and schools.
With the goal to help students learn in English and to keep young people in school to reduce the
Hispanic dropout rate
As a young man, he proudly answered the call to duty and was honorable discharged from the U.S. Army
after having served in the Korean War.
Popo touched our community in so many different ways and now we say Adios Amigo, God's speed and
may the Father welcome you with open arms.
Like all great leaders, who touched so many lives, Popo will be missed
Rudy Rodriguez
jerry.vela@gmail.com
..c: gary.packan@cityofdenton.com
Subject: RE: Dr. Gerard Roland Vela
Jerry and Gary, the bio looks great.
Gary, Jerry is checking with his mom for ok RE: my suggested edits.
Rudy edits for your consideration:
1.)Dr. Gerard Roland Vela
A Scientist, Educator, Veteran, Leader, and Longtime Denton Resident
SUGGESTED EDIT: Scientist, Educator, Veteran, Leader, and Longtime Denton
Resident (Delete "A").
I
"MONALE: This avoids the grammar question should it be "A" or "An". For
....ample, "A Scientist" is correct; but, "An" is the grammatically correct fit for
"Educator". I believe the five Roland descriptors of achievements are great and
can stand alone, without A or An.
2.)A special thank you to the League of United Latin American Citizens of
Denton, Dr. Isabella Pina-Hinojosa, Dr, Rudy Rodriguez, and everyone
associated with the hard work that went into the naming this park on
behalf of Dr. Gerard Roland Vela.
Suggested Edit: 2.) A special thank you to the Denton League of United Latin American
Citizens Council #4366, Dr. Rudy Rodriguez, Dr. Isabella Pina-Hinojosa, Anita Martinez, Dr.
Roberto Calderon, Alfredo Sanchez, and everyone associated with the hard work that went
into the naming this park on behalf of Dr. Gerard Roland Vela.
NOTICE SPANISH ACCENTS FOR Rodriguez, Martinez, Calderon, Sanchez
t a big deal, but you may want to consider spelling out University of North Texas (UNT) on
the top intro paragraph. Within the main body of the bio, you can use UNT.
1
Rudy Rodriguez
jerry.vela@gmail.com
monica.martin@cityofdenton.com; gary.packan@cityofdenton.com
Subject: FW: Dr. Vela Sign
Jerry,
See request for information for signage planned for the Vela Athletic Complex regarding your dad's bio.
For more information, contact Monica Martin with the City of Denton Parks and Rec Department: 940-349-8804,
monica.martin@cityofdenton.com. I hope the photos referenced below will not be deleted from this email.
Let me know if you need to lift any needed information from my G. Roland Vela document file. This Vela file will
eventually be a part of the larger LULAC Archival documents collection for permanent storage at the Tx Woman's
University Library.
Would you please copy me any information you send to Monica. I would like to incorporate this additional material in
our LULAC historical documents file for TWU.
Thanks.
Rudy
R Rodriguez
3919764 cell
From: Martin, Monica L [mailto:Monica.Martin(a)cityofdenton.com]
Sent: Monday, October 19, 2020 7:41 AM
To: rrodriguez1445@verizon.net
Cc: Packan, Gary R
Subject: Dr. Vela Sign
Good morning, Rudy. We are excited to work with you in gathering a few more pieces of information for the historical
sign that will go out at the G. Roland Vela Soccer Complex. I have a list of questions that I am hoping you can answer for
us:
1. Do you have a picture of Dr. Vela that illustrates his time while on Council?This could be a photo of him in his
suit and tie, or something that includes him actively serving.
2. Do you have a picture of his family's hometown?
3. Please confirm: Dr. Vela enlisted in the Navy and served at the U.S. Naval Ammunition and Submarine Net Depot
in Seal Beach, California from 1945-1946. He was honorably discharged and went on to pursue his degrees with
the University of Texas at Austin.
4. Thank you for sending the photos below. Can you help us get additional content on them?We are looking to
answer the following questions on each:
a. Who is in the photo?What is their relationship to Dr. Vela?
b. What year was this taken?
c. What was taking place during the time of the photo (was it a family reunion, a special event, etc?)
5. We would like to use the photos in the sign that will be put out at the complex. We will need high-resolution
images in order for these to come out clearly(and not be blurry). Would it be possible for us to pick up the
original photos from the family, scan them, and return to the family?
1
L
V j '
• r
irJ
,
AN
ve loved researching and learning about this incredible member of our community. Thank you for your time helping
gather these final pieces of information, as well as the honor to work with the family to celebrate Dr. Vela's many
contributions. Please let me know if I can answer any questions for you.
Sincerely,
Monica Martin CPRE
City of Denton
Recreation Supervisor—Aquatic Programs
940-349-8804
Monica.martin@cityofdenton.com
z
Rudy Rodriguez
m: Packan, Gary R <Gary.Packan@cityofdenton.com>
_,ant: Sunday, October 18, 2020 4:46 PM
To: Rudy Rodriguez
Subject: Re: Concerned ABUELOS Attending city rec games
Rudy
Thanks for the email.The baseball tournament was a program offered by Denton Boys Baseball. I will pass this
information along to the association. We provide them all the required information and rules to follow. Each
participant also has to sign a waiver for participation.
Flag football is our program. We painted the circles. I will share this with our Athletic group to reinforce. We
communicate numerous times with participants and patrons about masking and social distancing. With how sensitive it
is in our state about masks I do not want to put staff in a position of enforcement and potential conflict.
I did need to respond to you regarding Vela. Monica is going to be sending you an email with some additional requests
for the historical sign.
The arch is in production along with a sign for The Nook at Quakertown.
The sculpture has been a challenge. We sent out a request to the selected artist and they said the budget was not
—ough. We allocated additional funding and waiting on another proposal from the artist. I think the deadline was
ay. I will circle back tomorrow with an update.
Gary Packan
Sent from my iPhone
On Oct 18, 2020, at 1:19 PM, Rudy Rodriguez<rrodriguez1445@verizon.net>wrote:
J This message has originated from an External Source. Please be cautious regarding links and attachments.
Gary,
Rosemary and I have been attending our grandsons' youth baseball and flag football games.
On Sat, (10/17) we were at our Robbie's Titan team Flag Football at the Vela Park and soon after we
traveled the short distance to the Evers park to root for our Sammy's baseball team, the Crushers.
As much as Rosemary and I, as senior folk, are doing our best to protect ourselves against the deadly
virus, others—mainly parents, children and coaches, are not. The number of people wearing masks or
practicing social distancing was almost zero in these Denton Parks and Rec games.
This is despite the growing COVID pandemic and the sign posted on the concession stand by the service
window that reminds people to: "KEEP DENTON OPEN: MASKS REQUIRED". And, by the way, the
concession attendant was not wearing a mask. She did put on a glove to serve us popcorn.
1
Rosemary was too concerned to attend Sam's 8 am Crushers' game this morning at Evers. I decided to
go to support my grandson, but watched the game from a remote area of the field away from the large
scattered clusters of people showing no concern to the virus threat to their own health, much less the
health of others.
At the Vela flag football park, we appreciated the marked "social distant" circled areas for family and
friends watching the game with ample space in between each circle. But few, if any, in or outside the
marked areas were wearing masks.
I am not sure if we have any policing or check for"Masks Required/Social Distancing" compliance by City
staff or Police officials. I certainly did not see any evidence of this happening this weekend or in any of
the recent previous games we have attended.
Thanks, Gary, for looking into this matter. I trust you realize the urgency of acting on this concern soon
as we quickly move toward an anticipated historic surge in flu/COVID cases in the fall and winter
seasons.
If you decide to form a citizen advisory group to help your department with a COVID
response/compliance plan for city-sponsored recreational activities, let me know. I would be glad to
assist.
Thanks for your usual great help!!!
Rudy
R Rodriguez
940 3919764 cell
z
Rudy Rodriguez
gary.packan@cityofdenton.com
....eject: Concerned ABUELOS Attending grandson games
Gary,
Rosemary and I have been attending our grandsons'youth baseball and flag football games.
On Sat, (10/17) we were at our Robbie's Titan team Flag Football at the Vela Park and soon after we traveled the short
distance to the Evers park to root for our Sammy's baseball team, the Crushers.
As much as Rosemary and I, as senior folk, are doing our best to protect ourselves against the deadly virus, others—
mainly parents, children and coaches, are not.The number of people wearing masks or practicing social distancing was
almost zero in these Denton Parks and Rec games.
This is despite the growing COVID pandemic and the sign posted on the concession stand by the service window that
reminds people to: "KEEP DENTON OPEN: MASKS REQUIRED". And, by the way, the concession attendant was not
wearing a mask. She did put on a glove to serve us popcorn.
Rosemary was too concerned to attend Sam's 8 am Crushers'game this morning at Evers. I decided to go to support my
grandson, but watched the game from a remote area of the field away from the large scattered clusters of people
showing no concern to the virus threat to their own health, much less the health of others.
ie Vela flag football park, we appreciated the marked "social distant" circled areas for family and friends watching
iiie game with ample space in between each circle. But few, if any, in or outside the marked areas were wearing masks.
I am not sure if we have any policing or check for"Masks Required/Social Distancing" compliance by City staff or Police
officials. I certainly did not see any evidence of this happening this weekend or in any of the recent previous games we
have attended.
Thanks, Gary, for looking into this matter. I trust you realize the urgency of acting on this concern soon as we quickly
move toward an anticipated historic surge in flu/COVID cases in the fall and winter seasons.
If you decide to form a citizen advisory group to help your department with a COVID response/compliance plan for city-
sponsored recreational activities, let me know. I would be glad to assist.
Thanks for your usual great help!!!
Rudy
R Rodriguez
940 3919764 cell
i
Rudy Rodriguez
gym: Packan, Gary R <Gary.Packan@cityofdenton.com>
Tuesday, December 8, 2020 6:39 PM
To: jerry vela
Cc: Huffman, Drew S; Martin, Monica L; Dr. Rudy Rodriguez (rrodriguezl445@verizon.net)
Subject: RE: Vela Plaque Draft
Jerry--
Wanted to follow up on a few things.
1. Vela Sculpture—Approved by Council on Monday. We are moving forward to production!
2. Vela Plaque—Please see text below. Anything you would like to add?
3. Vela Historical Sign—Monica Martin is working on this and we are in need of a few photos. Do you have to have
the photos that she had requested or something that could be used in their place?
Thank you so much for all the help. Looking forward toward to the sculpture dedication in late summer!
Gary
From: Packan, Gary R
Sent: Monday, November 23, 2020 2:38 PM
To:jerry vela <ierry.vela@gmail.coni>
.ect: Vela Plaque Draft
Jerry
I hope you are doing well. I was wondering if you could take a look at the information below and let me know if you
have any thoughts. Thanks!!!
This plaque will be placed near the entry to the facility mounted on a wall to the left or right.
HAPPY THANKSGIVINGHH
G. ROLAND VELA ATHLETIC COMPLEX
NORTH LAKES PARK
City of Denton, Texas
Dedicated May 26, 2019
Grand Opening Celebration—August 31, 2019
CITY COUNCIL
Mayor: Chris Watts
District 1: Gerard Hudspeth
District 2: Keely Briggs
r';,trict 3: Jesse Davis
-ict 4:John Ryan
At Large Place 5: Deb Armintor
At Large Place 6: Paul Meltzer
PARKS, RECREATION & BEAUTIFICATION BOARD
Chair: Frances Punch
"-Ace 1: Gary Barber
.ce 2: Kent Boring
Place 3: Alana Presley Taylor
Place 4: David Shuck
Place 5: George Ferrie
Place 6: Ben Huttash
Architect: Dunaway Associates, Fort Worth, Texas
General Construction: North Rock Construction
Named in honor of the life and contributions of G. Roland Vela, US Navy Veteran, LINT Professor, Civic Leader, Mentor,
Husband and Father.
DRAFT CONCEPT.
0'�fwd .
I
Gary Packan
Director, Parks and Recreation
City of Denton
601 E. Hickory Street
Denton, TX 76205
940.349.7460
UN�ITE.GROW
panon VrYr and Pec
2
MENU
G. ROLAN D VELA ATHLETIC COMPLEX
PROJECT STATUS
Planning Design
Construction at the Vela Athletic Complex in North Lakes Park continues to progress. New sod has been
laid and a new playground consisting of slides, swings, and numerous other play features are also ready
to go. In early 2019, work began on the concession/restroom facility, and the target date for completion
is May 2019.
PROJECT BACKGROUND
The G. Roland Vela Athletic Complex will be Denton's new soccer complex named for G. Roland Vela, a
retired University of North Texas professor and former City Council member. The complex is expected
to open in March with four fenced and lighted adult size multi- purpose athletic fields, a parking lot,
playground, pavilion, and a restroom and concessions building. The complex is funded primarly through
voter approved bond packages, park dedication funds, and general funds.
PROJECT UPDATES
August 16: The Vela Athletic Complex grand opening is scheduled for S t r ay., Auaust 31 from 9:00
A.M. to 1:00 P.M. A soccer and rugby tournament will begin at 9:00 A.M. FC Dallas will host free soccer
clinics, taught by FC Dallas coaches, for anyone interested.
August 1: The Vela Athletic Complex is scheduled to open to the public with a grand opening event in
late August 2019. In the final phase of construction, the 3,200-square-foot concession stand/restroom
facility was completed. The playground has new slides, swings, and other play features for residents to
enjoy. For reservation information, contact the City's Parks and Recreation Department at (940) 349-
May 20: The Vela Athletic Complex has reached the final stages of construction and is scheduled for
Civic Leader and Cherished Member of the LINT Family
Emeritus Professor of Microbiology
Dr.G. ROLAND VELA
September 18, 1927—January 26, 2021
Emeritus Professor of Microbiology
Fellow, American Academy of Microbiology
University of North Texas
Soon after moving to Denton over 50 years ago with his wife, Emma, Roland got deeply involved in
the community. He understood the value of community relationships and community building. He
demonstrated these values through active participation in a host of Denton Boards and Committees,
and then, most notably, by his service as the first Hispanic elected to the Denton City Council.
I met Dr. Vela, known to his friends and colleagues as Roland,when I moved to Denton in 1975 to join
the faculty of Texas Woman's University. He was a most approachable, down to earth, and
unintimidating yet high-profile scholar,a cultural trait of his deep Tejano roots growing up in the
oldest part of San Antonio.
In a similar experience shared by fellow academics Dr. Roberto Calderon and Gloria Bahamon, Roland
was one of the first to welcome my wife Rosemary and I to our new community, immediately helping
us to feel at home and a part of something bigger than ourselves.
As a LINT professor, Dr. Vela embodied the university's mission, describing its faculty"as a caring and
creative community(that)empowers our students and benefits the world around us." Roland Vela
lived those words through his magnetic energy,generous friendship, and a high expectation of
excellence.
This was furthered evidenced in his formal and casual interactions with his students and young
emerging university scholars. He believed in people and took them under his guidance, inspiring them
to achieve their fullest potential.
As a Hispanic biologist, Dr.Vela's influence and inspiration as a role model to young Hispanics cannot
be underestimated. According to Dr. Isabella Pina Hinojosa, a longtime Denton resident and LINT
graduate, "Dr. Vela encouraged me and other LINT Mexican-American students to dialogue and feel
welcome at NTSU/UNT. Several students from the LINT Chicano/Mexican-American Student
Organization were often invited to his home for inspirational talks that helped boost the Si Se Puede
(Yes,We Can)self-confidence among the students."
Domingo Garcia, prominent Dallas lawyer and National President of the League of United Latin
American Citizens, says of his LINT biology professor. "When I ran for the Denton City Council at the
age of 20, Dr.Vela provided mentoring support. He also helped many others of his former students."
To strengthen the university's outreach to the Hispanic community, Dr.Vela also founded the annual
LINT Hispanic Conference. A highlight of this annual event was the special presentation of the G.
Roland Vela meritorious award to an outstanding DFW Hispanic for"Contributions Which Foster and
Enhance Education for Hispanic Students."
The City of Denton recognized and honored the deep significance of Dr.Vela's legacy and his
contributions to our community in May 2019,when it dedicated the G. Roland Vela Athletic Complex.
Through this enduring public facility,generations of children and their parents will come to know this
icon of our community, who was, as the sign posted at its entrance states, a "U.S. (WW II) Navy
veteran, LINT Professor, Civic Leader, Mentor, Husband and Father."
The great author and anthropologist Margaret Mead once said: "Never doubt that a small group of
thoughtful,committed citizens can change the world." In many ways,that line defines Dr.Vela's
impactful life. He was one of those thoughtful and committed individuals with a strong sense of
missionary zeal who lived up to Dr. Mead's vision. He opened the doors of opportunity to so many
individuals and for that we are grateful and inspired.
In the January 28 piece in this newspaper announcing the death of Dr.Vela, his close friend, retired
LINT professor Don Smith,said, "He was a very intelligent man and a fantastic bacteriologist. Roland
made Denton better,and he made LINT better."
Without a doubt, my friend also made the world better.
Dr. G. Roland Vela is in heaven now. No intermediate steps for him for he possessed a caring heart
and a giving soul. Rest in Eternal Peace, my friend. You've earned it.
Dr.Vela's family has asked friends and colleagues wishing to contribute to the 2021 LULAC G. Roland
Vela Memorial Scholarship Fund to submit a financial gift to:
Angeles Munoz
Vice President for Advancement
G. Roland Vela Memorial Scholarship Fund
The Denton LULAC Council#4366
P O Box 981
Denton,Texas 76201
lulac4366@gmail.com
G. Roland Vela, Ph.D.
Emeritus Professor of Microbiology (2000)
Fellow American Academy of Microbiology (1975) . . . see p. 3
Roland Vela. born Eagle Pass, Texas, September 18, 1927 to Marcial Vela Bernea and Maria de Guadalupe
Muzquiz de la Garza (Vela)
Raised in San Antonio. Texas: attended public schools and worked for the San .Antonio Express and
San Antonio Light
Volunteered for service in U.S. Navv.W«'II
Attended UT Austin: B.A. 1950.- M-A.. 1951. Ph.D., 1962. Microbiology and Biochcmistr-
Married Emma Lamar Codina Longoria in 1953:children Jem-. Anna Maria.Yolanda_ Jaime
Worked for the Citv of San Antonio Public Health: Soudiwest Foundation for Research: City of San Antono.
Texas; Harvard University, Boston, Massachusetts: School of Aerospace:Medicine, Brooks Air Force
Base. Texas
Professor of Microbiology. University of North Texas, 35 years: Associate Dean of Science&Technology.
College of Arts &:. Sciences, 5 rears
Published 75 research papers: textbook.Applied Food Microbiolog1,*and Lab. Manual. I-aboroton,for
Applied Food MicrobioloZ•: several "Guest Editorials"Denton Record-Chronicle. Denton.Texas
More than 100 invited seminars in American and Foreign universities
Directed research of 44 Masters and 20 Doctoral Students plus numerous undergraduate and post-doctoral
fellows.
Chaired Conunittec that wrote UNT Tenure policy, Chaired Tenure Committee hvo,terms: Pres Campus AAUP:
Committee of Fourteen. Faculty Senate: Faculty Grievance Committee
Served as Facub- Advocate for niany Faculty Members threatened with dismissal b.- UNT
Discovered bacterium that was eventually named Poenibacilhis uelaei by P. Sukplang,and A. Thongmce
Served on Research Peer Revie\x Committees of the National Science Foundation: National Research Council:
American Societe for Microbiology-: National Institutes of Health: National Academy-of Sciences:
Howard Hughes Medical Institute: Department of Education: U.S. Army Chemical Corps:etc.
Member of the American Socict\ for Microbiology for 59 years: Society for General Microbiology. London:
Canadian Society of Microbiologists. Montreal: Sociedad Mexicana de Microbiologia. Mexico City
Sociedad Colombiana de Microbiologia. Bogota. Colombia: etc.
1975 - 1978 President. Texas Branch.American Society for Microbiology. Distinguished Service Award.
emeritus member
1978 - 1987 Editor. Texas Journal of Science
Organized UNT Hispanic Conference Nyliich created The G. Roland Vela Award: later Hispanic Friends of
the UnIA ersity
Member of Alpha('hi Sigina. National Chemistry Honor Society and Phi Kappa Phi. National Honor Society
Visiting Professor: The University of Texas at Austin: University of Barcelona: Uniycrsity of Granada:
Unversity of Chihuahua: Uniycrsity of Nuevo Leon: Unuyersidad Nacional de Colombia
Fulbright Senior Fellow. Bogota Columbia,
1980 Lifetime Distinguished Professor. Microbiology. Colombian Govermnent.
Consultant for Frito-Lay: Campbell Soup Co.: A. H. Halff and Associates: Oceanography International: W. J.
Smith Wood Preserving Co.: Fisheries Nlinism-of Thailand. Bangkok: Fort Worth Independent School
District. Etc.
Retired from the Universin-of North Texas June. 2000.
Co-chair College of Arts and Sciences Fnierinis Faculty Council. 5 years.
Included in University of North Texas Oral Historn Project.
Included in University of Texas_ Austin Hispanic Es Students ��ho served in WWII
President's Council. University of North Texas
Boards of Directors: Flow Medical Foundation: Anne's Haven Hospice: Denton County Cooperative Agency.-
Our Dail-Bread(meals for the uidigent)
Founding Member,and actor. Firehouse Theater
G. ROLAND VELA, Ph.D
COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES
City& County of Denton
■ American Civil Liberties Union (Life Member)
■ Boy Scout Troop Counselor
■ Dallas Metropolitan Philosophical Society
■ Denton Forum (40 yrs)
■ Firehouse Theater Group—Campus Theater
o Founding Member
■ Citizens" Committee on Traffic Safety
■ Civil Air Patrol
■ Airport Advisory Board
o Chair twice
■ Denton City Council (1979)
■ Board of Directors, Texas Municipal Power Agency (eleven years)
o Secretary Reassurer
o Finance Committee
o Personnel Committee
■ Board of Directors,Ann's Haven Hospice of Denton
■ Board of Directors, Our Daily Bread(meals for the indigent)
o Secretary
■ County Program Planning Committee
o Two terms
■ Denton County Cooperative Agency
■ Board of Directors, Flow Medical Foundation
G. ROLAND VELA, Ph.D
COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES
OTHER:
■ Editorial Board, Rangsit University Journal of Science, Rangsit University, Bangkok,
Thailand
■ Retired, University of North Texas June 1965 to June 2000
■ Co-Chair College of Arts & Sciences
o Emeritus Faculty Council, 5 years
■ Included in University of North Texas Oral History Project
■ Included in University of North Texas, Austin Hispanic Ex Students who served in WWII
■ President's Council, University of North Texas
■ Listed as Outstanding 100 Texas Latinos of the 2e Century, Texas Latino Magazine
■ Published after retirement:
o The Men Named Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna, 2003
o Bernardo de Gdlvez Spanish Hero of the American Revolution, 2006
■ Currently working on the Muzquiz family of Spain, Mexico and Texas
In retirement: Grandfather; Great-grandfather; Author; Timid private pilot; timid chess player,
woodworker; bold talker; circular traveler; businessman meek& mild; Friday lunch philosopher;
and confused intellectual
LAST NAME FIRST(NICK NAME) EDUCAT. &COMMENTS SERVICE WAR
Rivas Daniel HS U.S.Navy WWII
Casillas Jimmy HS U.S.Navy Korea
Gonzalez Braulio HS U.S.Navy WWII
Mario HS U.S.Navy Korea
Adolph (Pogo) HS U.S.Navy Korea
Lozano Ignacio (Nash) HS U.S.Navy WWII
Joe HS U.S.Navy WWII
Rogelio (Roy) HS U.S.Navy WWII
Eloy HS U.S.Navy Korea
Gomez Albert ? U.S.Navy WWII
Rene HS U.S.Navy WWII
Angel HS U.S.Navy WWII
Raul HS U.S.Navy WWII
Abel HS U.S.Navy WWII
Ruben HS U.S.Navy Korea
Gomez Mauricio (Wicho) ? U.S.Army WWII
Diaz Salvador HS U.S.Navy WWII
Pedro HS U.S.Army WWII
Ramirez Andrew (Butch) HS U.S.Navy WWII
Joaquin HS U.S.Navy Korea
Obledo Armando (Ongi) ? U.S.Army WWII
Jesus (Chief) HS U.S.Army WWII
Mike Survived sinking of USS Indianapolis U.S.Navy WWII
Mario Harvard Law; cofounder of MALDEF U.S.Navy Korea
Oscar HS U.S.Navy Korea
Quintanilla Oscar BA Trinity Univ U.S.Army WWII
Hector Director U.S.ARMY UFO Program U.S.Army Career
Manuel (Meme) HS U.S.Navy WWII
Pena Benjamin (Benny) HS U.S.Army WWII
Richard (Chichi) HS U.S.Army WWII
Vela Roland Ph.D., UT Austin; Prof. Microbiology U.S.Navy WWII
Cesar HS U.S.Army Korea
Sanchez Robert (Beto) HS U.S. Marines Korea
Mike HS U.S.Navy Korea
Edward HS U.S.Navy Korea
Suavia Adolph HS U.S.A.F. WWII
Rodriguez Jose Ma. (Chema) ? U.S.Army WWII
Rucobo Roy ? U.S.Army WWII
Narro Mike German prisoner,married farm.daughter U.S.Army WWII
Mario HS U.S. Marines Korea
Mares Gonzalo (Cha) HS U.S.Navy WWII
Tomas HS U.S.Army Korea
Granados Joe (Joe Venado) HS U.S.Navy WWII
Raymond HS U.S.Marines Korea
Gonzales Henry (Yika) HS U.S.Navy WWII
Rene HS U.S.Army Korea
Orellana Fernando (Ferny) Art Scholarship and Art Commission U.S.Army WWII
Mario HS U.S.Army Korea
de la Rosa Isauro Scholarship to Art School in Dallas U.S.Army WWII
Jesus (Chichi) HS U.S.Army WWII
Mendez Raymond HS Killed in Action U.S.Marines Korea
Ramirez Ramon HS Killed in Action U.S.Marines Korea
Castillbn Frank HS U.S.A.F. WWII
Raymond Tex.A.&M..Architect. Own office U.S.Navy WWII
Del Rio Salvador HS U.S.Navy Korea
Romo Alfred HS U.S.Army Korea
Roger (Pee Wee) HS U.S.Navy Korea
I i Map of San Antonio in 1889 shows
Romana, Belvin, California and Kingsbury
— Streets in what appears to be undeveloped
0
land between Camaron and North Flores. It
also shows that Elmira(added dotted line),
�. Euclid and Cadwallader had not yet been
extended west of North Flores.
-- - Undoubtedly,the entire area between North
J X ` Flores and Camaron was in the San Pedro
t Creek flood plain creating an undesirable
- .?r environment for any but very poor
1 \ dwellings. It appears that low income
families lived in this neighborhood from the
earliest days of street construction to the
f~ 1950s when the neighborhood was razed.
West Romana Street gave way to Urban v 'u► . ,.:,
I
Renewal and much of it became part of the �.
athletic fields used by Tech High School. The rV
small part of Romana Street that remained was ".4; AUSTIN
added to Quincy Street and West Romana was + ENT
removed from the map. The small x added to
both maps shows the approximate location of
our house: number 510 West Romana Street. ?'
.g
Immediately below is a photo of part r. 1101,
of our front yard taken during a rare snowfall. v
This special event probably took place in 1936
or 1937. The two taller boys standing in our
front yard were our cousin from Mexico, 5 a
HOOK
Alfonso Muzquiz Ortiz and Armando Obledo,
Mario Obledo's oldest brother The two little
guys in front of them were Manuel Ramirez , °•
and Pedro Diaz,whom we generally addressed ,
as Pittta, Pittta, Pittta a la Betty Davis.
Getting ready to fire a snowball in the background is Peggy
Pena,daughter of our landlord. I am almost certain the man
at the right edge of the photo is my father, Marcial Vela
Bermea,who was throwing snowballs with the best of us; -
he had been a fairly good baseball pitcher in his youth. It
was a festive day;we were let out of school,our Dad didn't
go to work,our Mom baked us apple pies and everybody - -
played in the snow until it all melted.
!! �r' 3112010
VN
t Houses on West Elmira (above) built at the turn of the
1 ! Twentieth Century as they appear in 2011. The essence of
luxury and comfort still shows through the century of their
i existence and contrasts sharply with the small, crowded
houses on West Romana(left).
:,r: yam{(' •_ .� . eta ��' yr;- �/a�. . - - .ti -
we ,ar(
s` •t �, �_ � . � •�4,yr` •-� �,i
Nearly 2,000 distinguished scientists Academy of Sciences. Dozens have been honored with
have been elected to the American Academy of Nobel Prizes, Lasker Awards, and the National Medal of
Microbiology in its 50-year history. Chosen for this Science. More than 500 Fellows are actively involved in
honor by their peers, they have been elected on the all facets of the Academy,including guiding the highly suc-
basis of their scientific excellence, originality, and cessful colloquium program. Fellows of the American
leadership; high ethical standards; and scholarly and Academy of Microbiology embody the most exciting
creative achievement. Fellows represent 40 countries minds in the science. Due to the depth and breadth of
and all subspecialities of microbiology.They have built their scientific expertise, Academy Fellows are uniquely
exemplary careers in basic and applied research,teach- qualified to provide the very best advice in microbiology.
ing, public health, industry, and government service.
Over 300 members of the American Academy of
Microbiology have been elected to the U.S. National
Ph.D. STUDENTS GRADUATED
Dr. Gerald Dean Cagle
Exec. Vice President Research Dr. Morris Crum
Alcon Laboratories Morris Crum Testing Laboratory
Fort Worth,Texas Dallas, Texas
Dr.Raoul Simon Rosenthal,Jr. Dr. Joaquin Moreno
Professor of Microbiology Professor of Microbiology
Indiana University School of Medicine University of Alicante
Indianapolis, Indiana Alicante, Spain
Dr. James Ray Ralston Dr.Massoud Mahmoudi
Head, Product Water Quality Control American Post-doctoral Fellow
Sterilizer Company Univ. of Texas Health Sci. Res. Center
Los Angeles. California Dallas,Texas
Dr. Jung Fu Wu Dr. Gogu S. Reddy
Research Group Leader Staff Scientist
Cornell University Tulane University,
Ithaca,News York New Orleans, Louisiana
Dr. Wayne Riley Barnes Dr. Juan Manuel Sanchez Yanez
Sr. Research Scientist Professor of Microbiology
Abbot Laboratories Institute for Nitrogen Fixation
Chicago, Illinois Irapuato,Mexico
Dr. Solomon Lare Aladegbami Dr. Virginia Guadalupe Nevarez
Chief of Research Laboratories Escuela de Ciencias Quimicas
Tarrant Co.Medical Center Universidad de Chihuahua.
Fort Worth,Texas Chihuahua, Mexico
Dr. Charles Shing Chang Dr. Miguel M. Castro Arroyo
Professor of Microbiology Biosynthesis. Inc.
Fu Jeri University 225 Main Street
Taipei.Taiwan Lewisville,Texas
Dr. Joel Escamilla(Captain) Dr. Acharawan Thongmee
Head, Microbiology Services Associate Dean
U. S.Navy,Pacific Area Rangsit University
San Diego, California Bangkok.Thailand
Dr. Anthony Henry Gonzalez Dr. Patamaporn Sukplang
Clinical Microbiologist Associate Professor and Director
Portland General Hospital Thailand Research Institute
Portland,Oregon Bangkok, Thailand
Dr. William F. Fleming III
Head. Mycology Section
Mavo Clinic
Minneapolis,Minnesota
Dr. Terence A,Johnson
Chairman, Biology Department
Uni erslLy of Northern Tenniessee
Memphis,Tennessee
I \
{
Roland Vela, in uniform of Spanish Grenadier of the XVIH Century,
presents copy of his book on Bernardo de Galvez to His Highness,
Don Felipe, Crown Prince of Spain; Royal Palace, Madrid, 6-13-2010.
21 0i9
Roland Vela receiving Bernardo de Galvez award
for his book Bernardo de Galvez, Spanish Hero of
the American Revolution.
Benjamin Lyon DAR Chapter Invites Prospective
Members to October 8th meeting
Wednesday,06 October 2010 12:30 j r.Writlen by Catherine Giles
The Benjamin Lyon Chapter of The National Society of The Daughters of the American
Revolution will meet 1:30 p.m..Friday.October S.for a social followed by their 2:00 p.m monthly
meeting at Good Samaritan Village.2500 Hinkle Drive in Denton
Members Sharon Casey, Rose Harpool. Becky Washam, and Sharon Lundsford will host the
events. Author Dr. Roland Vela will present a program entitled."Bernardo de Galvez:Spanish
Hero of the American Revolution.' Women. 18 or older,who are interested in learning more
about prospective membership in DAR or in Benjamin Lyon Chapter. are invited to attend
To RSVP:to learn more about prospective membership which is open to any woman 18 or older.
regardless of race,religion,or ethnic background.who can prove lineal blood descent from a
patriot who aided in achieving American independence; or to learn more about assistance
available to help prospective members document proof. please contact Diana While at
dkwhite(0)chaner.net or 940-387-4741
THE DENTON RECORU-CH BONICL F• Pal! 71C
IN COLOMBIA _
NT Doctor Awarded Lectureship
Dr. G Rosad vela of the,tstwgwa.J1M.1h. Colambn.:cudid releeiyn by a Falb*;:bI-: T...Y751 mHronielm_Ic xa➢!^nspan,iicc to L'olumbla.^ale
Korb Tr state Urdicsi. 'T x'171 be Tm to nnprarellfar's ramm dine:and.ILmae eau t a ly Iron his%Garr.Lquim, Proramor acid `The
ba:o�t-.I srirnm family,�tt un:ter«ace miwhiifuo;ros:tcaiemal bu.rd and lirmatrrul aPd the rnrar.•h M.Ur.JM Slates,:mrestRy das.an
been awarded Senia,tamsa by apdalm� F2^
raltin;aIllayi Lectureship topoofessars'rorarch andl uai'ers'y. �rrmnllr camp..,dA\TSl'.Ili mchar.er program with' 4i
'.tacb a Cptnmbt. South'amxafder th the field.- Ire; •.I h._hmi Nudes_•;qi Places,In sn,tt nervlhine L•om rmnlrity:'
I mer Acaa Ibis summer- I',I.titles The[—hip tas.: �,Ia•cine its been n a 1 Wderbltc-y In'use The WSI:biologist.11 be burn:tmc I:o Aug it. a i tic I m:eahial t:Wend - rues tea xAl roodurt threenl - rim! lose Dn¢•I'te^h'eo. irrva d Inlurn at Ind
(todi;m- the L sot leehniqu.; or,se'a aa.chosen bur 11lia hwte:n spanish.-Ir added-: gnu. _4_ i--rime :rid tnirerelc—n""Wr'IML,
In micrubloiagy In famlily and�}pnm lbrar,Ji e HaeftYI-;'m —fly going toIetn b."to lrh seholar gam +•: nd 1 car for I—ar a a MIA!or
11: rig G,AUIJ11tD FHA *indents It The Uiuren➢y ed smrt m ome nces nbiCh tcystammer s.I acd sleds:s dad f—hy.
•THE DENTON RECORD-CHRONICLE Sanday,OCeaber 1,IF]
Dr. Vela Does Lots Of Lecturing
• Or.Gres and RaWd Vita dt of Barcelona to gird a resift the Una—SA'of Bate lulu. riled to xrit!a porn(ar a who wins toattend MSU as
_ Ind North Twat State of lectures and laniears.He "I ill lecture mostly an scieotUln .Journal in a po--herring student.
L'niverzi[Y bivtogieal was imitrd by the lham' Ilx rescaren that l do here: Columbia.which in appear -.We really tmuiled him to
scimee.department has oily of liarcdeta le become the `MU professor said in the January Histic at the per m the North Tx.=•
1� bier.doing Ins of lemurivg visaing prafessae far the The lectures prm ➢r ar ..I) Publication of the Iolilulo soccer tram." Dr. V.I.
s - Ime1Y,.mostly in Spanish. 14n, school year,bat was cunerm"a BeresotibWl la Gnografieo "Agustin JaYetl.
y Dr. Yela just returned o because of papers that I and three Godaeai-'-The article is The young rear.All,
from o ihrccmonth guest resp.nsibilities at NTSU, gnduaff smdens published entitled."BioeW -an
ies:The ltnises Cureor➢arlqudia.
1. leclurohip at the National where he dad several cab the ph yinlogl•and the Need for a Net Order." Colmnbu•will eater MSU
f Ilnircrs:ty er Calomnia.in graduate studceis are morphology of the While I.South America. Bee be Compkles some
f Itogal,in We micminoli� engaged in mtaabiolaglcal Aaolobaeter vinelamin.a Dr.Veto.hats if.and Ina"v EegIW conases at Austin
department of ibe..lira] rcaurrh. li—erium that R wvY foot child— made a "Galkgc I'Shuman.After he
i = N .chant th.1, While in During Ibf lea-ueok viait nth:' '-marvelous trip to the imbibes his pre-engilnertug
Eagda.he also lectured at to Spain.Dr.Veto will also During the Colombian trip, Colombia..Amamn."He Ininivg at NTSU,Care Plans
the L Ivrtsidad Ja,ecia.a lecture eit the University of made possible by a SeNm said Unit the''wML is A tiny m bet'=9 hs rmgineering
dad,we\atimal R--Ih hladridendthe Untmsityaf Fdbright Lacturu A—,d, 'remote tom.tied Leticia. studies et Southern
taboralary far Special Salamanca.His had during Dr. Vela was made an where they made many good
dtethodlsl UNreesiry. The
Studios- the trip vial be Dr.Alberto honorary 1➢e member at the frimtilb. - ''dung Colombian is
O.N.-.10,Dr"Vda Nl Ramos-Cormensa... Colombia. Society of The Vets brought back a —fly baying with Dr.
DR.G.Res VEt t •By to Spat.Ica the Onhersity professor of microbidag-IL bticrnbidogy. He su ta- -wmg man tram Colandia Meta and his family.
Society Elects Vela Dames Club Meets
1 Vefas Host Christmas Party
1h. Roland l'Na via ekeled eke
prasidenr d the Tess.*Bench nl the WfTQ! 1 A s:ice of Chr iat mac rya president, and list. Is busy kin lion fa!Iand RY
Put
,American SOCMY car Ulerabio r a1 the newt - e aimed .re hem Tilling the Gre elui ge Beltlm, prts s bitty Idkieg dr 3cs- pot
lag. ,p hnlltlaY season[or mmclwrs chairman. on by bdiday pu:b.
grmip.iRttt tall meeting an Austiu, c .F'�—s. I ad the Nmth Tetmt state of. Caution•a naliv of -
Cirarerslly Dom.Club. sneden.presented*tides on As a dub project.
Or.Verb has bete a mmilier a the.lamb Cou Ding Center at Texas IV—'I 'h.i ' Dr.and Mrs.Roland Vela, her native land and"' ter made a Chriltmas
Texas State uai,ee ily biological ac.— U.ilervL•-peseNeo a paps.t Ibe Flrsl op.— d the club fen Sxadsh mlifaeU, Insket fora needy family'in
Ideally vine twit.A noted lecture.he her ty ;j KiSU gmdnrc srodenssoid Anther interest Group. Dime.
de,—d a series d term—en engota sold National Cnn(dreme m erne nun f the a. " ' their wires, basted a acts dad —ft.. Is boy A gourmet dinner is
in BrcN aom.Spahr NJ—Brim T+ye l.dcn Mm ar bald_Uy � C1iros parry Saturday- making Christmas placer carat all club moo-
He„.a«ordvd a reff—Wp In Ile gn- m'be L-air—fly of rlarda. - Oh DM i the couples' demranans.Couple•bridge bars in-Jemuey. Fend of
ember American Sotltlr m lma.The si ` I ...rose[ grave held a play also h.ed—rehiring llcvien will he fenlarrd
satriy s limited to a Tide c( lulu m.latalian aaa `Tlz =.'': ti' ...—el
C4clstmai' the halida)3_ The IadiK
PerrenlagC of the ry ibonan 4 Jurgen Types no the College t f .... fiord. Hostess., ceereserlass,taught by Pat "Caning to a uni—ito
IJ.Ono mrcragtn]oq ns m the e•m..State• ualar Coaiinuum d Hummeues to Nntuni =s"1 vve Mn-Jerk couban- Caldwell of the NTSU unth like Denton is not
vhotvrf .1tedlnle ch0g.,--handalo-ays.s''.since you lesre
pralexrimal acrnmPliabmeeu. 41ente - �"' - frimtb slid family behind.
The N'rth Texas Dames t
s The hdyces8.fJ;s Type Indicator s a - -.--•r Club i trying to neap
.' plc paper and truth my ntvglral ten = .i�`•` Join In Carols Club is Ardent dad!b-
vhkn nk"ir-purples-inured m .of
NDL\hap tTJ.1 I wno to adJml:o..pas
DR.JOHN I.OEINM director of the pe«epti m and Judgment- 11r'J.f rMy Thursday Night i
ve red to mast tie,.Irid
hilc ire.Conlon;' ul-,rs_
All Corms.are invited In join in caimdig.1 carding Cori.ecplahaI
Thursday wkm Girl Scouts in Neighachaod III.Cress Otherolrimstachide Mis
Timbers Caurrfl, present . old-fashioned Chrtslm. Reed Yale*-historian; In
Program m the pa in ofcity'hall. Shirr- Terlaim.
SMlwestern-Idle lun inarias will HIM the patio. momenalmis cbaEmao:Mn
Charlotte Kucllo..a student of Eugene Conley al North John Lester, membership
Toss Slade Univershy,xill lead oho C—lies and 111 sing chairman: ern. slicker
'Sgnt NiCd"to the accompaniment Of the aukharp. Ught,secretary:and Itries
\I.-Arm Hansel apt Sandra Howe14 c.<hairmm d Ttiows So - .U—_
Nenghtnrhmd Ili.apress the tan ttil at many rasidenls a
possible On rilh the C. scour ie This«lekallun d -Art}'ee srisd'mg [rather
ChrWmu undimmed by the megy crisis or other amid larormatlm about the club
��y may .
Ica P.O.Boa Casa.
Vclhbmnoedlilmmmpassesi4ex.Ie7 hall ofDmloo. NT S7fym, Dendon, Tax.
Krum come mify and the Denton State School. 7W-
I
We All Lived on Ronlana Street`
A patriotic essay written by
Roland Vela-Muzquiz& Cesar Vela Muzquiz
in remembrance of a time when met?were patriots for love of flag and country
and when we were all Americans first, Mexicans second and, when pressed,
Democrats. Our knowledge of the theory of political systems was limited to "
Republicans are the Rich Cnrys, Democrats are the Poor Guys. "
We did not possess the guile to ask '`Why?".
c0 The text in this work is protmied in its entirety by copyright and
by right of ownership of the authors. No one may copy or use
any part of it without previous,written permission from
Roland Vela-Muzquiz or his assignees.
Spring 2011
P.O.Box 51164
Denton,Texas 76206
Appendix 2. p. 1
WE ALL LIVED ON ROMANA STREET
by Roland Vela-Muzquiz and Cesar Vela-Muzquiz
The houses were very old and stood side by side with little or no space for gardens,back yards or play areas.
It was a hard,dusty little street with almost nothing that could be counted as a positive attribute—but we loved it,
we were almost proud of it;it was,after all other considerations,our barrio, now we say,our Alma Maier. Ia(hk
de Romana lay deep in the oldest part of San Antonio, probably less than ten blocks from the historic Spanish
Cathedral built in 1731 by the ancestors of our ancestors ofthe family Muzquiz. Together with Kingsbury,California
and Belvin,West Romana must have been part of an impoverished blue-collar neighborhood—much as it was in
1935 when we lived there.
West Elmira,West Euclid and Marshall were broad,paved streets lined with elegant,expensive houses with
St.Augustine grass lawns and attractive gardens(see last page,bottom right). The latter comprised an Anglo and
moneyed-Mexican neighborhood that bore the aura of gentility. In contrast to those on West Elmira,the houses on
West Romana seemed to have been built on lots that were halved and halved again until small oddly-shaped houses
filled every piece of open ground from North Flores to Camaron Street. We lived at 510 West Romana(see maps
on last page,top left and middle)in a small two-bedroom one-bath with less then 600 square feet of floor space on
a lot not larger than 25 x 50 feet. A store with living quarters above was hard by our west wall,and a two bedroom
with no water or sanitary services was immediately behind our house. On another small portion of the original lot
were a one-room apartment,a small grocery store,a store room and a storage garage. In brief,there were seven
structures on a lot no more than 50 x 70 feet.
While all the other streets had good asphalt surfaces and consequent clean environments,Romana was a
gravel street bathed in mud to a depth of several inches when it rained and a permanent cloud of white caliche dust
at all other times. Unlike the others,however,Romana was brimming with life—it seemed that each little house
contained one or more boys—and/or girls that added to the constant clamor of the neighborhood. Healthy,active
youths ranging in age from five to twenty filled the street. The boys had long established a unique order that lasted
from one generation to the next. The"Romana Rattlers"team or gang(?), bound us all to one another and to the
street. The Rattlers were a lose semi-gang that formed teams capable of competing successfully with those of other
neighborhoods in all athletic events that boys could think of No initiations or secret words were required;if you
lived on Romana you were a Romana Rattler. In most instances we were better than the Riverside Katz,the Euclid
Eagles,Cantarana,La Piedrera and the Snake Hill Gang. Since half ofthese were Anglos,we grew up knowing that
movies and history were all wrong about physical prowess and who would win in any given contest.
Then a sudden shift in world politics brought severe changes to Romana Street. On December 7, 1941,
Romana Street stopped being the natural habitat of Romana Rattlers and became a national resource of boys/men
to serve our country in the coming war. The number of boys/men who served in WWII and Korea that lived in the
200 yards (wild guess) of West Romana should be noted by someone—by everyone. Every substandard and
misshapen little house contributed one or more men to the armed forces. There was a willingness,an urge—to serve
our country—to be part of the war—to defend our country in its hour of need. And most of us volunteered. We,
Cesar and 1,were part of this cohort and we enlisted as soon as our ages permitted. Reluctantly,our parents gave
us up,Roland volunteered for service in the Navy at 17 and Cesar joined the Army at 18.
In the absence of a chronicler to tell the story of the boys from West Romana during WWII and Korea,we
have undertaken the task. We two brothers who were of Romana Street humbly assume we can do this. But if we
don't, we apologize for any and all errors and beg forgiveness. We think the data we show are fairly reliable,our
ages notwithstanding. Roland is 83 and Cesar 81 but we are still quick and alert in almost every respect.
It is our firm recollection that almost all the boys from every family that lived on West Romana served in
the armed forces. It is also our recollection that of all those who went, only two, Ramon Ramirez and Raymond
Mendez,failed to return. Both Rambn and Raymond enlisted in the Marine Corps and both were killed in action in
Korea. All the others completed their term of service and were honorably discharged at the end of the war—and
we did so without Ken Burns ever knowing we served our country. But we didn't serve to get our name on his list,
we went because our country needed us.
Unfortunately, Romana Street was an early victim of Urban Renewal. Seventy years later,we see that
Romana Street was replaced by Interstate Highway 35 and that the remnants of our street were cleaned,paved,curbed
and renamed Quincy Street. Lamentably,there is no commemorative plaque to describe the willingness of the men
who rose from there in the 1940s to answer the call to duty,and few are left who remember that Romana Street ever
existed. My brother Cesar and I wish to remind everyone that Romana Street existed and that it was,free of bravado
and easy patriotism,indeed a place of the free and a home of the brave.
G. ROLAND VELA ATHLETIC COMPLEX
Dedicated May 26, 2019
In Honor of Dr. Gerard Roland Vela
UNITE,GROW, _ VNI7IN
CITY
OF
F �.
WIRA
DENTON
Denton Parks and Rec
Mayor and City Council
Mayor Chris Watts
Gerard Hudspeth, District 1
Keely Briggs, District 2
Jesse Davis, District 3
John Ryan, District 4
Deb Armintor, At Large Place 5
Paul Meltzer, At Large Place 6
Parks, Recreation and Beautification Board
Frances Punch, Board Chair
Gary Barber, Place 1
Kent Boring, Place 2
Alana Presley Taylor, Place 3
David Shuck, Place 4
George Ferrie, Place 5
Ben Huttash, Place 6
Design and Construction
Dunaway Associates, Fort Worth, Texas
North Rock Construction, Denton, Texas
Opened August 31, 2019
The G. Roland Vela Athletic Complex is named in honor of the life
and contributions of Dr. Gerard Roland Vela, a US Navy Veteran,
UNT Professor, Civic Leader, Mentor, Husband, and Father.
Special thanks to the Denton League of United Latin American
Citizens (LULAC) Council #4366 for their support and dedication
to the Vela family, community, and the City of Denton.