STC culinary students Aly Cantu, Lab Assistant, Lisette Parker, Frankie Rodriguez and Gilbert Salazar prepare crescent rolls in pastry kitchen

(Edinburg February 7, 2012) In January and February, South Texas College (STC) Culinary students put their skills to the test with “two” major events open to the community. In January, the 5th Annual “Steak” In Your Community raised crucial funds for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Edinburg Rio Grande Valley programs and services. Culinary students wrapped themselves in the event by creating an Australian themed display of fruits, cheese and vegetables. On February 17th, “Artiste Changes Lives” a benefit recital featuring Internationally acclaimed Italian pianist, Francesco Attesti will take place in the Historic Edinburg Auditorium with an Art Gallery reception in City Hall. Once again these talented chefs are creating magic with their talent in serving the community.
“Our students really enjoy the experience,” said Chef Emma Creps. “It provides an opportunity to apply all that they have learned from marketing, finance, sanitation, service, and food preparation. In addition, they experience the attention to detail that is required to plan and execute events. It’s a real eye opening experience for them!”
Working in the field of Culinary Arts can be a rewarding and satisfying career especially if you like receiving instant gratification. You’ll often know how well you have done as a chef immediately after preparing the dish. STC’s culinary program prepares students through lecture and lab courses in culinary arts, nutrition, supervision, a practicum, and general education courses. This degree leads to careers in restaurants, catering, hotels and resorts, and other commercial food services. Graduates take positions as sous-chefs, professional assistants to chefs or culinary managers, supervisors of food production and service, stewards, banquet managers, purchasing agents, or restaurant supervisors.
The Boys & Girls Club has played an integral role in the Edinburg community for 41 years, providing daily programs and services to over 16,000 young people. During the School year the Club is open Monday – Friday, 3:30 p.m.-8:00 p.m. and during the summer the hours are 7:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. The Club has moved its main site and administration to its new building the Legacy Center located at 702 Cullen Street (Rogers and 281). The Club offers programs that emphasize character and leadership development, education and career development, health and life skills, the arts, and sport, fitness and recreation. If you would like to learn more about our joining the Club, about how to join our team of professionals, or about our youth development programs call 956.383.2582 or visit our website www.edinburgkids.com. If you would like to make a contribution please contact Sabrina Walker-Hernandez, Chief Professional Officer at 956.383.2582 or email swalker@edinburgkids.com or you can text “CLUB” to 20222 to donate $5.00.
The Boys and Girls Clubs of Edinburg is a proud partner of the City of Edinburg and a United Way of South Texas Agency.

(Edinburg), (January 31st, 2012) – The Edinburg Rotary Club and the Service Over Self Foundation will host the 10^th Annual CajunFest  Feb 11, 2012 6:00 pm the Echo Hotel and Conference Center in Edinburg .

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CajunFest is the Rotary Club of Edinburg’s biggest fundraiser of the year. Revenues from CajunFest support various humanitarian, educational, and cultural exchange programs at both the local and international levels. Local programs supported by Edinburg Rotary include the Rio Grande Valley Food Bank, the Boys and Girls Club of Edinburg, Pony League Baseball, Edinburg Chamber of Commerce Building Campaign, UT-Pan American Scholarships, Student Exchange, Group Study Exchange, The Edinburg Texas Scholars Program, Rotary Youth Leadership Awards, Hunters for the Hungry (RGV Food Bank), Comfort House, Rotary Four-Way Test Speech Contest, and the Dustin M. Sekula Memorial Library. International Programs target improvement of developing countries’ infrastructure, education, and health services. Edinburg Rotary’s assistance to the General Hospital of Reynosa, MX and Casa Amparo a girls orphanage. The Rotary Foundation’s world-wide efforts include the literacy and numeracy programs designed to educate those in developing countries to ensure that capable human resources are available for sustainable economic development.

Among the most important of the International Projects is PolioPlus (http://www.rotary.org/foundation/polioplus/index.html), which seeks to eradicate the polio virus from the world. In addition, Rotary Foundation Educational Programs (http://www.rotary.org/foundation/programs.html) provide funding for 1,200 students to study abroad each year. Grants are also awarded to university teachers to teach in developing counties and for exchanges of business and professional people to visit overseas to learn about others’ cultures and lifestyles.

Our goal for CajunFest is to raise $100,000.00 which will fund a number of very important community service projects.  Our co-sponsor, the Edinburg Rotary Club’s non-profit “Service Over Self” Foundation, is a 501 (c) 3 organization.

Edinburg Rotary club is a diverse group of professional leaders whose main objective is service — in the community, in the workplace, and throughout the world.  Rotarians develop community service projects that address many of today’s most critical issues, such as children at risk, poverty and hunger, the environment, illiteracy, and violence. They also support programs for youth, educational opportunities and international exchanges for students, teachers, and other professionals, and vocational and career development. The Rotary motto is Service Above Self. For Tickets or information contact the Echo Hotel and Conference Center at 956-383-3823 or JP English 956-383-6289.

This popular and affordable class fills quickly and is limited to 12 slots. You are encouraged to sign up as soon as possible. Features and benefits of the class include:

Experienced Instructor- This class will be taught by Robert Gilbert, Assistant Professor of Graphic Design at the University of Texas Pan American. Apple computers will be used for the class.

Job Shadowing Opportunity - Explore the career of graphic design by spending time with a professional designer from Gateway Printing & Office Supply.  Learn from the talented team of artists and technicians who use the latest software and hardware to ensure quality professional printed pieces.

Access to quality After School Program- from 4 pm to 8 pm with no wrap-around fee; • fitness and arts activities; • healthy snacks and hot meals; • open gym; • field trips; • friendly, trained staff; • great location in one of the valley’s finest Boys & Girls Club facilities; • winter and spring break availability from 7:30am – 5:00pm.

Registration & membership forms are available for download at www.edinburgkids.com; in-person at the Boys & Girls Clubs of Edinburg RGV The Legacy Center, 702 Cullen Street (Rogers & N. Expway 281) Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.; or by calling 956.383.2582.

The Boys & Girls Club has played an integral role in the Edinburg community for 41 years, providing daily programs and services to over 16,000 young people.  During the School year the Club is open Monday – Friday, 3:30 p.m.-8:00 p.m. and during the summer the hours are 7:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.  The Club has moved its main site and administration to its new building the Legacy Center located at 702 Cullen Street (Rogers and 281). The Club offers programs that emphasize character and leadership development, education and career development, health and life skills, the arts, and sport, fitness and recreation. If you would like to learn more about our joining the Club, about how to join our team of professionals, or about our youth development programs call 956.383.2582 or visit our website www.edinburgkids.com.  If you would like to make a contribution please contact Sabrina Walker-Hernandez, Chief Professional Officer at 956.383.2582 or email swalker@edinburgkids.com or you can text “CLUB” to 20222 to donate $5.00.

The Boys and Girls Clubs of Edinburg is a proud partner of the City of Edinburg and a United Way of South Texas Agency.

The top three finalists, third place Loren Haskins, second place Adrianita Salas, and the Youth of the Year Edwin Padilla are presented with their scholarship check by Carlos & Sister Guerra “Steak” In Your Community Honorees and Beverly Land, Chief Volunteer Officer for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Edinburg RGV. Each Youth of the Year will receive $1,000.00, $500.00 and $250.00 respectively.

Pictured are the Youth of Year Judges and Candidates for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Edinburg RGV. Candidates (seated) – Edwin Padilla, Janice Montemayor, Amsi de Leon, Estafana Salas, Adrianita Salas, Allyson Goytia, and Loren Haskins. Judges (Standing) Chris Brasher-Bar-B-Cutie/Rescue EMS & Board Member, Dr. Pablo Tagle – Chiropractic Wellness and Spa Center, Thelma Garcia- First National Bank & Board Member, Tina Solis- First National Bank & Board Member, Elias Longoria-Lone Star National Bank & Edinburg City Council Member, Sonny Hinojosa- Hidalgo County Drainage District #1, Ella de la Rosa- MVEC & Board member (moderator), Cris Fuentes- JcPenney-Edinburg, Eddie Villanueva – Hidalgo County Courthouse & Board Member, Frank Lara- CrossFit RocKKore & Board Member, Millie Smith- First National Bank & Board Member, Dennis Wade- Valley Town Crier, and Todd Miller – First National Bank & Board Member.

Edwin Padilla was selected Youth of the Year for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Edinburg RGV at the Annual “Steak” In Your Community on January 14, 2012.  Along with the title, Padilla will also receive a $1,000 scholarship, courtesy of the Annual Golf Classic chaired by Eden Guerra.

Padilla is among hundreds of local youth across the country recognized by Boys & Girls Club of America (BGCA) for his sound character, leadership skills and willingness to give back to the community.

Being named Youth of the Year is the highest honor a Boys & Girls Club member can receive. The title recognizes outstanding contributions to a member’s family, school, community and Boys & Girls Club, as well as personal challenges and obstacles overcome. This program was founded over 61 years ago through the generosity of the Reader’s Digest Foundation.

Padilla has been involved in the Boys and Girls Clubs of Edinburg RGV for the past five years. He is currently a senior at Johnny G. Economedes High School and a current member of the Upward Bound Club.

The top three finalists were third place Loren Haskins, second place Adrianita Salas, and the Youth of the Year Edwin Padilla.  Each will receive a scholarship in the amount of $1,000.00, $500.00 and $250.00 respectively.

“I’m so excited that this year we had 7 outstanding recipients, that each had a very impactful presentation, that showed how much the club helps young people move closer to their future dreams and aspirations.  I commend Edwin for so eloquently sharing his journey and I’m excited that he now, with the help of this scholarship will reach his educational destination,” said Sabrina Walker-Hernandez, Chief Professional Officer, Boys & Girls Clubs of Edinburg RGV.

Judges in the Youth of the Year Competition included Sonny Hinojosa- Hidalgo County Drainage District #1, Dennis Wade- Valley Town Crier, Todd Miller – First National Bank & Board Member, Chris Brasher-Bar-B-Cutie/Rescue EMS & Board Member, Millie Smith- First National Bank & Board Member, Elias Longoria-Lone Star National Bank & Edinburg Council Member, Tina Solis- First National Bank & Board Member, Thelma Garcia- First National Bank & Board Member, Eddie Villanueva – Hidalgo County Courthouse & Board Member , Cris Fuentes- JcPenney-Edinburg, Dr. Pablo Tagle – Chiropractic Wellness and Spa Center and Frank Lara- CrossFit RocKKore & Board Member.

The Boys & Girls Club has played an integral role in the Edinburg community for 41 years, providing daily programs and services to over 16,000 young people.  During the School year the Club is open Monday – Friday, 3:30 p.m.-8:00 p.m. and during the summer the hours are 7:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.  The Club has moved its main site and administration to its new building the Legacy Center located at 702 Cullen Street (Rogers and 281). The Club offers programs that emphasize character and leadership development, education and career development, health and life skills, the arts, and sport, fitness and recreation. If you would like to learn more about our joining the Club, about how to join our team of professionals, or about our programs call 956.383.2582 or visit our website www.edinburgkids.com.

The Boys and Girls Clubs of Edinburg Rio Grande Valley is a proud City of Edinburg partner and a United Way of South Texas Agency.

The Drill Team/Baton Twirling program will run from January 30 – April 27, 2012, from 5:30-6:30 for youth ages 6-9 and 6:30-7:30pm for youth ages 10-12; each Monday and Wednesday.  The cost is $100 for the entire 3 months or $35 per month. The child must be a Boys & Girls Clubs of Edinburg RGV member.  The membership cost is $20 for the academic school year.

This popular and affordable program fills quickly and you are encouraged to sign up as soon as possible. Features and benefits of the program include:

Experienced Instructor- This program is being conducted by Elizabeth Rodriguez

Former Head Twirler at La Feria High School, Member of UST and NBTA and twirler since age of 4.

Access to quality After School Program- from 3 pm to 7 pm with no wrap-around fee; • fitness and arts activities; • healthy snacks and hot meals; • homework help; • field trips; • friendly, trained staff; • great location in one of the valley’s finest Boys & Girls Club facilities; • winter and spring break availability from 7:30am – 5:00pm.

The Boys & Girls Club has played an integral role in the Edinburg community for 41 years, providing daily programs and services to over 16,000 young people.  During the School year the Club is open Monday – Friday, 3:30 p.m.-8:00 p.m. and during the summer the hours are 7:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.  The Club has moved its main site and administration to its new building the Legacy Center located at 702 Cullen Street (Rogers and 281). The Club offers programs that emphasize character and leadership development, education and career development, health and life skills, the arts, and sport, fitness and recreation. If you would like to learn more about our joining the Club, about how to join our team of professionals, or about our youth development programs call 956.383.2582 or visit our website www.edinburgkids.com.  If you would like to make a contribution please contact Sabrina Walker-Hernandez, Chief Professional Officer at 956.383.2582 or email swalker@edinburgkids.com or you can text “CLUB” to 20222 to donate $5.00.

The Boys and Girls Clubs of Edinburg is a proud partner of the City of Edinburg and a United Way of South Texas Agency.

Dr. Beverly Fridie kickoffs the MLK Day “Freedom Breakfast and service learning activities.

Monday was Martin Luther King Day, and to honor the memory of the iconic civil rights leader and all that he represented, the Legacy Center@ Boys & Girls Clubs of Edinburg RGV hosted a “Freedom Breakfast.”

Dr. Beverly Fridie, PhD served as the special guest speaker, kicking off the “Freedom Breakfast” with a message of service to community.    She encouraged club members to give back as Dr. Martin Luther King did. “ The inheritance left to us by Dr. King is a dream of strong communities, empowered individuals, and the bridging of social and cultural barriers”, said Dr. Fridie.

The Martin Luther King, Jr. (MLK) Day of Service was designated in 1994 to honor Dr. King’s legacy by turning community concerns into citizen action through community service. This day, focused on Dr. King’s vision of a just and free society comprised of actively engaged citizens, provided an excellent kickoff to the Torch Club’s (leadership group for youth ages 10-12) service-learning projects to include:

• Visitation to the Retama Manor Nursing Home in Edinburg with handmade gifts,

• Handmade Get Well Cards and balloons to the Edinburg Children’s Hospital and

• A letter writing campaign to soldiers serving overseas.

The Boys & Girls Club has played an integral role in the Edinburg community for 41 years, providing daily programs and services to over 16,000 young people.  During the School year the Club is open Monday – Friday, 3:30 p.m.-8:00 p.m. and during the summer the hours are 7:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.  The Club has moved its main site and administration to its new building the Legacy Center located at 702 Cullen Street (Rogers and 281). The Club offers programs that emphasize character and leadership development, education and career development, health and life skills, the arts, and sport, fitness and recreation. If you would like to learn more about our joining the Club, about how to join our team of professionals, or about our programs call 956.383.2582 or visit our website www.edinburgkids.com.

The Boys and Girls Clubs of Edinburg Rio Grande Valley is a proud City of Edinburg partner and a United Way of South Texas Agency.

The Academic Enrichment programs started October 3, 2011 and their graduation ceremony and celebration took place on Friday, December 16, 2011. Thanks you Sylvan for all your help and way to go ACE IT class of 2011.

The Boys & Girls Club has played an integral role in the Edinburg community for 39 years, providing daily programs and services to over 16,000 young people.  During the School year the Club is open Monday – Friday, 3:30 p.m.-8:00 p.m. and during the summer the hours are 7:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.  During the summer the Teen Center is located at the Fountain Annex Center at 1210 E. Kuhn Street.  The teen summer hours are 1:00 p.m. 5:00 p.m.  The Club offers programs that emphasize character and leadership development, education and career development, health and life skills, the arts, and sport, fitness and recreation. If you would like to learn more about our joining the Club, about our Sylvan partnership, or about other youth programs call 956.383.2582 or visit our website www.edinburgkids.com.  If you would like to make a contribution please contact Sabrina Walker-Hernandez, Chief Professional Officer at 956.383.2582 or email swalker@edinburgkids.com or you can text “CLUB” to 20222 to donate $5.00.

The Boys and Girls Clubs of Edinburg Rio Grande Valley is a proud City of Edinburg partner and Hidalgo County United Way Agency.

About the Sylvan Learning Center

Sylvan Learning is the leading provider of tutoring and supplemental education services to students of all ages and skill levels. At Sylvan, our warm and caring tutors tailor individualized learning plans that build the skills, habits and attitudes students need to succeed in school and in life. Affordable tutoring instruction is available in math, reading, writing, study skills, homework help, test prep and more at more than 900 learning centers in the United States, Canada and abroad.   For more information about the local Sylvan Learning Center located at 901 Dove Avenue call 956.650.9800.

“This report shows that the Boys & Girls Clubs of Edinburg RGV programs are meeting critical needs and transforming lives,” said Sabrina Walker Hernandez, Chief Professional Officer. “Our board and staff helped improve the lives of thousands of young people in Edinburg and surrounding communities, whether providing tutoring or serving as mentors, or working shoulder to shoulder with families. As youth needs continue to mount, and as our community look for ways to give back, this report confirms that Boys & Girls Club is a critical, cost-effective investment that will change the future course of a child’s life.”

Highlights of the report include:

•           86% of club members participating in Texas Aim advanced a level on the math

post assessment.

•           67% of club members participating in Texas Aim advanced a level on the reading

post assessment.

•           100% of teens increased in business & personal etiquette skills.

•           85% of club members increased their knowledge of conflict resolution.

•           87% of club members increased their resistance skills to tobacco, alcohol and

other drugs.

•           83% of club members increased their physical endurance & speed.

•           92% of club members increased their ability to demonstrate a positive attitude

and behavior among their peers.

•           38% of teen members volunteered 100.5 to 200 hours of community service.

•           95% of club members increased awareness of their uniqueness.

About the Boys & Girls Clubs of Edinburg RGV

The Boys & Girls Club has played an integral role in the Edinburg community for 41 years, providing daily programs and services to over 16,000 young people.  During the School year the Club is open Monday – Friday, 3:30 p.m.-8:00 p.m. and during the summer the hours are 7:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.  The Boys & Girls Clubs of Edinburg RGV (www.edinburgkids.com) offers programs that emphasize character and leadership development, education and career development, health and life skills, the arts, and sport, fitness and recreation. If you would like to learn more about our club, review our annual report or make a contribution please contact Sabrina Walker-Hernandez, Chief Professional Officer at 956.383.2582 or email swalker@edinburgkids.com or you can text “CLUB” to 20222 to donate $5.00.

The Boys and Girls Clubs of Edinburg Rio Grande Valley is a proud City of Edinburg partner and a United Way of South Texas Agency.

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The honorees for this year’s event are Carlos and Sister Guerra.  Thanks to the generosity of the community there is a an array of more than 120 auction items including, a Chicago getaway, jewelry, hunting and fishing expeditions, fabulous parties, and one-of-a-kind art pieces and more.

Proceeds from the event will help support youth development programs of the Boys & Girls Clubs and the Youth of the Year scholarship program.  The 2012 Youth of the Year will be announced at the event.

Tickets are $100 per person with a limited numbers of tables available for $1000 (seats 10).  The Board of Director would like to extend an invitation to anyone who would like to celebrate with us.  Tickets can be purchased by calling 956.383.2582 or logging on to www.edinburgkids.com. You can also use your Smart Phone to purchase tickets by visiting m.edinburgkids.com.