Commentary by Jennifer Gilliland
One of my former professors once described Uvalde as ” The epicenter of mediocrity” and if I needed more proof of this, I received more evidence Election night as the same people except for the County Clerk kept their current positions.
I have lived in Uvalde all my life, and received a great education including a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and a Master’s of Education in Counseling with LPC qualifications from Sul Ross State University Rio Grande College. I was taught by some of the best professors who urged me to move away from Uvalde to reach my full potential, but as life and circumstances changed I decided to stay. Being my stubborn self, I was determined to make this city work for me since I had my education. I assumed that employment would be relatively easy to obtain. I was wrong, despite being well known in the community, Uvalde was not ready for me. Through the years, I have adapted and accepted the situation as it is, and through patience and perseverance I find myself writing for this paper today. My point is change takes time and dedication
Many years ago, I ran for City council and lost,the community was not ready for change. So, i do identify with candidates who invested time, money, and energy into a campaign for what seems like nothing. It’s not; change can be made in other ways. Do not give up,
Is it a coincidence that the new audio and video footage of Lt. Mariano Pargas inaction on May 24th was released after the election which he was a part of? Would it had made a difference?
Today, Commissioners Court met in a packed courtroom, noticeably missing was newly reelected Mariano Pargas. In the open forum, concerned citizens urged the removal of Commissioner Pargas from the court, and requested that he step down voluntarily. Outside of the courtroom, Sheriff Ruben Nolasco was bombarded with questions of accountability from reporters.
