by Michael Robinson | Uvalde Hesperian

Editor’s note: Two paragraphs of Jesse Rizo were attributed to Cal Lambert in a previous version. The error has been corrected.

    Two new Uvalde CISD Trustees and one reelected as a Trustee will be sworn in to serve at Monday night’s May 13th regular school board meeting at 6 Pm immediately following a special 5:30 Board meeting to go over district finances. 

   Jacklyn Gonzales and  Jesus “Jesse” Rizo will be stepping on the stage as newly elected Trustees and Calvin “Cal” Lambert will be returning to the board after winning his re-election bid. 

  “I am honored to be selected to serve on the UCISD board of trustees. I look forward to being a voice for our students, teachers and community,” Jacklyn Gonzales said. 

 Jesus “Jesse” Rizo submitted the following statement to the Uvalde Hesperian:

  ” I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has been a part of this journey—from those who inspired me to run for school board trustee, to the friends who proofread my letters and speeches, and to the mentors who educated me on the processes involved. I’m especially thankful for those who provided encouragement during challenging times.

My initial intention was never to run for political office. Before May 24, 2022, I focused on mentoring students during career days across various schools and volunteering in Batesville during special events. The tragic event on that day changed our lives profoundly, creating a ripple effect across our community and beyond.

After many conversations and observations, I saw numerous opportunities for improvement that needed to be addressed across the board. While I respect the work of officials, council members, and board members, I realized that simply being “nice” wouldn’t be enough in the current circumstances, which led me to reconsider my course.”

After thoughtful reflection and discussions with my wonderful wife, we decided to place my name on the ballot. Going door to door and engaging with people from different backgrounds provided me with a deeper understanding of our community’s strengths and weaknesses. This reinforced my decision to run for board trustee.

  The overwhelming support I received from our UCISD communities tells me that people are eager for change, seeking transparency and accountability at all levels. I am humbled and honored by the many votes I received from within our district and from beyond.

  I look forward to serving as your at-large trustee for both Batesville and Uvalde. Together, we can make a meaningful difference. Thank you for this incredible opportunity.”

Calvin “Cal Lambert also shared a statement to the Uvalde Hesperian after his re-election bid:

“First and foremost I’m blessed with a family that always supports me.  This couldn’t have been done without them.  I sincerely thank those that cast a vote, supported, and trusted in

me to help the Board guide our school district into the next four years. 

  A special thank you  to my fellow School Board Trustees for your encouragement.  It’s an honor to continue to serve with an awesome team that always has the best interest of our students and employees at the forefront of every decision made.  There are many initiatives in progress directed at improving the academic success of our

students as well as the professional growth of our employees. I’m optimistic about the future of our district.  Thank you. ‘Loyal and True’

by Michael Robinson

  On Tuesday, October 10th, the Uvalde County Commissioner’s Court voted to accept the new list of names for Republican Party election judges per receiving direction from the Texas Secretary of State’s office on the matter.  Within a few days of the list of new names being approved, Uvalde County Elections Director Melissa Jones received a letter from Republican Party Chair Rhonda Vigil requesting that the Early Voting Ballot Board Judge be changed from Emma Trimble to Diana Olvedo-Karau. 

 The Uvalde Hesperian learned of this new development from Olvedo-Karau.

by Michael Robinson | Uvalde Hesperian

Picture credit: City of Uvalde

  Uvalde Mayor Don McLaughlin’s announcement to run for Texas State Representative District 80 seat will not allow him to see his four-year term as Mayor to completion according to Mayor McLaughlin in a phone interview with the Uvalde Hesperian on Monday morning, July 24th, 2023.

  According to McLaughlin, when he announced his bid for the District 8o Texas House of Representatives seat currently occupied by Rep. Tracy O. King he didn’t realize his announcement would, by Texas Election Law, preclude him from maintaining his position as Mayor. He said that if he knew that was the case he would have waited to officially announce his bid and instead say he was considering running for State Office.

  He also said that he legally remains as Mayor of Uvalde until a new mayor is elected, and once elected, eligible to serve. 

  The transition from one major to the next would occur a couple of weeks after the special election.  A special election will be on the agenda for Tuesday night’s May 25th City Council meeting.

  McLaughlin stated it was an honor to serve the Citizens of Uvalde County.