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Calais, Maine – U.S. Border Patrol Agents assigned to the Calais Station developed a unique pilot program that provides training to local school officials in the use of Individual First Aid kits (IFAKS). These kits contain basic medical equipment capable of treating massive bleeding and maintaining an airway in an emergency situation.   

The training program allows Border Patrol Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) to provide hands-on training to area teachers and school staff members.  The curriculum is centered on the use and deployment of an IFAK. In the hands of a trained individual, these kits can make the difference in saving a life during an emergency incident.   

“By partnering with the schools, this IFAK training will provide potential lifesaving skills to school staff members,” said Houlton Sector Chief Patrol Agent Jason D. Owens.  "The hope is to increase survivability rates following any sort of mass casualty incident at the local schools.”

This familiarization course is provided free of charge and has trained 51 teachers and staff members at the Princeton and Calais School Districts.  Calais Station EMTs will return to Princeton again this month to continue with the IFAK familiarization.

MASSENA, N.Y.  - U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Officers at the Massena Port of Entry participated in a local bottle drive and donated returnable bottles and cans to the local St. Lawrence Steel 14U Tier II Boys Hockey Team.

The St. Lawrence Steel hockey team is headed to the USA Hockey National Tournament to be held in South Bend, Indiana from April 3-8. “There are many life lessons learned through winning, losing, and the hard work to get to top competitions. We try and help whenever possible.” said CBPO Scott McCracken. The team consists of players from Potsdam, Massena, Canton, Brasher Falls, Norwood, Ft. Covington, Ogdensburg, Saranac Lake and Watertown, NY. 

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“This is an exciting time for kids and a small way we can give back to surrounding communities and support our youth.” said Port Director Robert Dwyer.

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PHARR, Texas — On Thursday, May 30, 2019, Border Patrol agents from the Rio Grande Valley Sector Headquarters recognized the importance of higher education and awarded this year’s Youth of the Year recipients at a ceremony held at the Pharr Events Center in Pharr, Texas. The Mayor of the City of Pharr, Dr. Ambrosio Hernandez, matched the Border Patrol’s scholarship donation of $15,000.00, making this year’s scholarship ceremony a record with over $30,000.00 awarded to the students.

Rio Grande Valley Sector Border Patrol presented seniors from 10 high schools with the prestigious Youth of the Year Scholarship. For the last nine years, the Rio Grande Valley Sector Border Patrol has proudly recognized outstanding high school seniors for their excellent academic achievements and significant community service. The Honorable Dr. Ambrosio Hernandez was the keynote speaker for the event. Dr. Hernandez congratulated the students on their outstanding academic achievements, service to community, and delivered an inspirational message to the students – “We should never forget the sacrifices made by parents every morning across the Rio Grande Valley. It is easy to overlook the lack of sleep some parents experience as they wake up early to ensure their children are ready for school, or when they stay up late to make sure they complete their assignments. The same parents that once grabbed their little ones hands to start their first day of school are the same that woke them up today to make sure they were on time to this ceremony. Now, they are all grown up. The recipients being recognized are our future and I work for them. I, along with the City of Pharr, promise them and their parents that we will work as hard as they do towards a bright future.”

“There are so many different emotions pulling on families as they prepare for college and the expenses associated with going off to school. This scholarship provides a small relief to students to jump start their educational endeavors and we are proud to work with community partners who continually invest in students alongside the Border Patrol,” said Communications Director Irma Chapa.

This year, the students were awarded with a $3,000.00 scholarship, a proclamation from U.S. Senators John Cornyn and Ted Cruz, a gift card from Top Golf and a gift bag from the RGV Partnership.

Youth of the Year Recipients:

• Ariel R. Garcia, San Benito High School
• Melissa Lugo, PSJA Early College High School
• Jonathan Sherchand, Donna North High School
• Victoria Mena, Weslaco East High School
• Astrid Villarreal, The Science Academy of South Texas
• Joshua Loya, La Joya Early College High School
• Oscar Eliceo Hernandez, Lopez Early College High School
• Will Scogin, Lyford High School
• Catherine Perez, San Isidro High School
• David Silva, Edinburg High School

For more information about Border Patrol’s Head of the Class Program or Youth of the Year Scholarship, please contact Special Operations Supervisor Victor Cardenas at 956-289-5647.

LAREDO, TEXAS–Laredo Sector Border Patrol Youth of the Year Mateo Simpson was hosted by Texas State Representative Richard Peña Raymond at the Texas State Capitol in Austin, Texas.

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On May 30, Mateo, a senior at United High School, was given a reception in his honor by Representative Raymond at the Capitol. Representative Raymond presented House Resolution 1866 congratulating Mateo for being selected as the Youth of the Year along with a private tour of the Capitol followed by private luncheon.

Mateo, the son of Robert Avington and Queta Simpson, was joined by his sisters, Isabella and Adelina.  Border Patrol agents Eddie L. McAfee and Ivan E. Alvarado also attended the event.

He plans to attend the U.S. Naval Academy and study aeronautical engineering before serving in the Navy. A National Honor Society and National Piano Guild member, Mateo was also a student-athlete in football, basketball, track, and power lifting.

Mateo was selected as the 2018 – 2019 Youth of the Year at the International Bank of Commerce (IBC) annex in Laredo, Texas on May 14.  The Youth of the Year culminates the Youth of the Month program that recognizes students each month during the academic year from all Laredo area high schools.  Students are selected for the honor based on academic achievement, community involvement and demonstration of their fortitude to succeed.

 Program partners, such as Representative Raymond, play an integral role in the program, as they reflect the commitment and dedication in supporting education by highlighting Laredo’s young leaders. 

This year marks the 31st anniversary of participation by the Laredo Sector Border Patrol.

BLAINE, Wash. – U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Office of Field Operations Blaine Explorer Post took first and second place honors at the Snohomish County Explorer State Competition held in Monroe, Washington, from May 31 to June 2.

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This year’s competition featured 19 teams representing multiple agencies around the state of Washington. Twice as many teams competed this year compared to 2018.

When the dust settled, the Blaine Post had 18 trophies and three medals to their name out of 21 events. The Explorers compete in several events such as active shooter, building searches, domestic violence calls, and in physical challenge scenarios.

The CBP Explorer Program allows young men and women ages 14 through 20 opportunities in character building, good citizenship and fitness. This volunteer program is designed for participants to receive experience in and exposure to law enforcement careers within CBP.

I was thrilled with the hard work our Explorers put in for the contest. “We cannot be more proud of our Explorers and are especially grateful to their CBP advisors and the Blaine Police Department who dedicated countless hours training the post,” said CBP Supervisor Todd Visser.

Next year’s competition will again take place in Monroe.

FALFURRIAS, Texas — From July 29th to July 31st, the Fort Brown Station, in collaboration with Brownsville Station and Office of Field Operation  Explorer Programs hosted the Third Annual S.W.A.T. Camp near Falfurrias, Texas.

During the S.W.A.T. Camp, Explorers from the integrated agencies were able to have an opportunity to train in a unique environment with agents and officers to assist. The Explorers were able to receive training in defense tactics, bounding, arrest techniques, and other law enforcement skills. The Explorers were also able to complete an obstacle (confidence) course, a team building course and on their final day rock climbing and rappel off a tower.

Despite being from different post and agencies, the Explorers found that bonding with one another was their favorite part from the experience. A special thanks to the Louse & Allen Foundation for providing the training facility.

LAREDO, Texas – Laredo Sector Border Patrol initiated the Youth of the Month Program, for the 2019-2020 school year.  The Youth of the Month ceremony was hosted by United High School on Wednesday, September 18.  Laredo Sector, along with community partners presented the 11 honorees who are all seniors from Laredo area high schools with the prestigious Youth of the Month Award.

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“Today we are here to honor you and your achievements as you strive to graduate high school and move forward to earn a successful career,” said Watch Commander and 1993 United High School graduate Reymundo Enriquez, “Don’t be afraid to ask for guidance or advice from those that you look up to.  You have a bright future ahead of you and I believe that you can all be successful in whatever you choose that next level to be for you.  All things are possible if you believe in and propel yourself to get to that next level.”

The Border Patrol Youth of the Month program, in collaboration with community partners, has recognized Laredo’s top high school seniors for over 30 years.  At the end of the school year, 11 Youth of the Month recipients are considered for the prestigious Border Patrol Youth of the Year award.

The following students were chosen as the Youth of the Month for September:

United South High School - Christopher M. Garza

Staggs Academy of International and STEM Studies - Sydney Perkins

St. Augustine High School - Gustavo I. Alcantar

R&T Martin High School - Alexis Carrillo

Lyndon B. Johnson High School - Kayla G. Martinez

Dr. Leonides G. Cigarroa High School - Zoe Hannah Landa

J.W. Nixon High School - Zoe Miranda Alvarez

John B. Alexander High School - Mia Fuentes

Hector J. Garcia Early College High School - Victor Delgado

Harmony School of Excellence - Abraham Martinez

United High School - Scarlett Belle Garcia

El CENTRO, Calif. – On September 20-22, 2019, El Centro Sector Border Patrol Explorer Post 4108 competed in the 2019 Best in the West competition sponsored by the San Diego Sector Explorer Post.

This three-day event gathered 15 explorer posts from the southwest United States and evaluated each post in 10 different competition events.  All explorer posts were tasked with putting teams together to test their skills in scenarios such as building entry, felony vehicle stop, officer down, tactical EMS, tracking operations, and courtroom testimony to name a few. 

The El Centro Sector Explorer Post 4108 performed exceptionally well taking third place in two events, responding to burglary, and responding to a public disturbance scenario. Explorer Joel Carrillo stated, “The competition was challenging and really brought us together as a team, it showed us what we could accomplish as a team.”  

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The El Centro Sector Border Patrol Explorer Post 4108 Advisors take pride in mentoring and leading the young men and women of the Explorer Program. Explorer Advisor Border Patrol Agent Benjamin Aguilar and Agent Rene Valenzuela attended the competition and stated, “We are very proud of our Explorers and their accomplishments.  It is important to continue to show our Explorers that with dedication and determination, they will accomplish their goals.”

The El Centro Sector Border Patrol Explorer Post 4108 opened its doors in 2003. Since then, has had numerous former Explorers go on to Military or Law Enforcement service. In the coming weeks Explorer Post 4108 will be hosting its annual open house to select potential Explorers to join their team.

BUFFALO, N.Y. – U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer Stacey McIsaac from the Port of Buffalo recently received the prestigious CBP Commissioner’s Humanitarian Award for saving the life of a child while on temporary duty assignment at the Rio Grande Valley Donna Holding Facility in Donna, Texas.   

 Last August, CBP officer McIsaac was assigned to her shift at the Rio Grande Valley Donna Holding Facility when she noticed a young boy had been choking, was turning blue and had become unresponsive. Officer McIsaac immediately rushed to the scene where she provided medical assistance and was able to dislodge the item from the boy’s throat allowing him to regain his breath. 

 “In the course of officer McIsaac’s duties, she was faced with making a quick decision in a highly stressful situation, said Acting Buffalo Field Operations Director LaFonda Sutton-Burke. Her actions demonstrated bravery and compassion that resulted in saving the life of a child. We are extremely proud of her heroic, selfless act and am honored that she received this much deserved recognition.”

The CBP Commissioner’s Humanitarian Award is given to recognize employees who demonstrate compassion and competence, exceeding normal expectations, in assisting individuals in extreme circumstances. Examples of extreme circumstances are life-threatening situations requiring an immediate response. Out of CBP’s workforce of 60,000 employees rarely does someone earn this prestigious award.

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EDINBURG, Texas —On Tuesday, June 15, 2021, Rio Grande Valley Border Patrol Sector (RGV) virtually hosted the Youth of the Year Scholarship Ceremony for the 2020-2021 school year. Each school year, 62 high school counselors nominate a graduating senior to represent their high school as the “Head of the Class”. Students are nominated for this award based of their academic achievements, community service, extracurricular activities. “Head of the Class” recipients are then eligible to become a Youth of the Year awardee and receive a scholarship.

Each Youth of the Year scholar will receive a scholarship worth $1,500. These scholarships are possible due to partnerships with several RGV businesses such as AEP, RGV BUICK and GMC Dealers, Shah Eye Center, Nustar, HEB, IBC Bank, River Rock Real Estate, JBC General Contracting, and RGV Partnership. Region One Education Service Center is in charge of distributing funds to the winners. 

In addition to contributing to the Youth of the Year scholarship, Shah Eye Center also donated a free eye corrective surgery, as part of their Visionary Award to a deserving educator.  The winner was nominated by her colleagues for her dedicated commitment to her students and school.

RGV Chief Patrol Agent Brian S. Hastings addressed the eight “Youth of the Year” honorees, school representatives, and family in attendance. Chief Hastings congratulated the students on their outstanding academic achievements, service to community, and delivered an inspirational message to the students on continuing their education beyond high school and into college.

Youth of the Year Scholarship Recipients:

Noel Guerra, Jr.- Juarez Lincoln High School

Karina Perez-San Isidro High School

Natali Acha-PSJA Memorial Early College High School

Alyssa Trejo-Robert Vela High School

Daniel Kim-South Texas ISD Science Academy

Ernesto Moreno-Edcouch-Elsa High School

Abbeny Solis-Harlingen High School South

Ashley Armendariz-Gladys Porter Early College High School

Please visit www.cbp.gov to view additional news releases and other information pertaining to Customs and Border Protection. Follow us at @CBPRGV. 

As children return to the classroom, it is important to examine the connection between bullying and domestic violence. Bullying, similar to domestic violence, may result in emotional and psychological injuries that can have longer impacts than physical injuries.

Parents and caregivers should talk to children about bullying:

• Begin a conversation by letting children know that any type of bullying is unacceptable.
• Talk about what to do when being bullied, like walking away.
• Let your children know that it is ok to speak up if they feel uncomfortable.
• Encourage children to stop bullying by speaking with a trusted adult (e.g., teacher, school counselor).

Children look to parents and caregivers for help when they face tough situations, so the best thing parents and caregivers can do is lead by example. Set aside time daily to talk, comfort, and reassure them. Children pay close attention to how adults treat others and how they cope with stress and conflict. Treating others with kindness and respect shows children there is no place for bullying.

For additional resources, you can:

• Visit Childhelp for signs and symptoms of teen bullying and abuse.
• Text Tess, a free and confidential mental health chatbot, at 442-245-8065.

For more information contact cbpresiliency@cbp.dhs.gov.

LAREDO, Texas – Overcast skies, light rain, and COVID measures did not stop Laredo Sector Border Patrol from recognizing the Youth of the Month honorees for the 2020-2021 school year with a vehicle parade held at the Outlet Shoppes of Laredo parking lot.

On Wednesday, May 12, Laredo Sector Border Patrol along with community partners, educators, and family came together to celebrate the incredible achievements and accomplishments of 88 high school seniors, who were honored as Laredo Sector Youth of the Month for the 2021 school year.

For the past 33 years, a Youth of the Month ceremony has been held monthly at a different Laredo high school to recognize the students but due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the monthly events were put on-hold for the 2020-2021 school year.  This year, following COVID-19 safety precautions, Laredo Sector, its community partners, and high schools’ faculty and staff, held a parade extravaganza to honor the students and give them the recognition they deserve.  A total of 88 high school seniors were recognized for the 2020-2021 school.  Various Border Patrol assets including the Horse Patrol, All-Terrain Vehicles, Marine Units, Bike Patrol, and others lined the parade route to applaud the accomplishments of these honorees.Image may be NSFW.
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Community Partners included The Outlet Shoppes of Laredo, Area Health Education Center (AHEC), Joe Jackson Funeral Chapels, Chick-fil-A, Royal Laser Carwash, AwardmasterZ, McDonald’s of Laredo, Dr. CC’s Tooth Factory, IBC Bank, Webb County Commissioner Rosaura “Wawi” Tijerina, Laredo FOX/Univision Laredo were on hand or contributed items to celebrate the honorees.

Representatives from the offices of U.S. Senators Ted Cruz and John Cornyn, U.S. Congressman Henry Cuellar, Texas Senator Judith Zaffirini, and State Representatives Richard Pena Raymond and Tracy O. King were present to cheer and gift special mementos to the honorees as they drove by during the parade.

Through the Youth of the Month program, Laredo Sector and community partners have recognized Laredo’s top high school seniors for 34 years.  At the end of the school year, 11 Youth of the Month recipients, one from each campus, are considered for the prestigious Border Patrol Youth of the Year award which will be announced later this month.

Deputy Chief Patrol Agent Carl E. Landrum recognized the nominees for the Youth of the Year.  Not pictured were the nominees from J.W. Nixon High School and United High School.

Laredo, Texas – Laredo Sector Border Patrol hosted a virtual ceremony where the Youth of the Month honorees were recognized.

Laredo Sector along with community partners, educators, and honoree families, came together on Nov. 18, to celebrate the incredible achievements and accomplishments of 11 honorees, all seniors from Laredo area high schools, and recognize them with the prestigious Youth of the Month Award.

George Altgelt, Attorney at Law, challenged the honorees to find their calling.  Mr. Altgelt said, “What are you called to do? Because if you do not have a calling, a purpose, you’re not going to be good at it. The blessings we have mean you must answer that call and give something back. Your purpose is to serve. Those of you who are recognized as Youth of the Month, you are inheriting a unique situation where you have your work cutout not just for yourself, but the generations that come after.”

In closing, U.S. Representative Henry Cuellar congratulated the honorees for their achievements and wished them well in their future endeavors.

Through the Youth of the Month program, the Laredo Sector Border Patrol and in collaboration with community partners, have recognized Laredo’s top high school seniors for 35 years.  At the end of the school year, 11 Youth of the Month recipients are considered for the prestigious Border Patrol Youth of the Year award that is presented in May.

The following students were chosen as the Youth of the Month for November:

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Dr. Leonides G. Cigarroa High School                                  Amanda Arreola

Harmony School of Excellence                                              Frida Vanessa Castilla

Hector J. Garcia Early College High School                       Ken Yaguchi

J.W. Nixon High School                                                             Nahomi Vasquez

John B. Alexander High School                                             Daniela Medina

Lyndon B. Johnson High School                                           Zoe Lee Garza

R&T Martin High School                                                            Magaly Espinoza

St. Augustine High School                                                       Jaizeth Andrea Muñoz

Staggs Academy of International and STEM Studies     Ashlee Manrique

United High School                                                                    Ethan Koroma

United South High School                                                       Alyaha Ortega

Laredo, Texas– Laredo Sector Border Patrol commenced its 35th Annual Youth of the Month program by presenting the honorees for September at a virtual ceremony on Thursday, September 23, 2021.

Adapting to the limits that the COVID-19 pandemic has imposed, Laredo Sector, along with community partners, educators, and family came together online to celebrate the incredible achievements and accomplishments of the honorees and present them with the Youth of the Month Award.

“Students, you should be very proud of yourselves.  You have set the bar high and continue to live your lives at a high standard.  One cannot help but to be impressed and motivated by your drive to succeed and your work ethic”, said Laredo Sector Division Chief Dionicio Delgado, who was this ceremony's guest speaker.  “This is just the beginning.  Finish the school year strong by keeping the same determination and attitude and I have no doubt you will succeed in anything you set out to do.”

Through the Youth of the Month program, Laredo Sector and community partners have recognized Laredo’s top high school seniors for the past 35 years.  At the end of the school year, one Youth of the Month honoree from each school will be nominated for the prestigious Laredo Sector Youth of the Year Award which will be awarded in May.

The following students were selected as the Youth of the Month for September:

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Dr. Leonides G. Cigarroa High School                                  Ariadna Vela

Harmony School of Excellence                                              Fernando M. Gomez

Hector J. Garcia Early College High School                       Miranda Beltran

J.W. Nixon High School                                                              Karen Valdez

John B. Alexander High School                                             Gabriela V. Rigal

Lyndon B. Johnson High School                                           Victoria L. Camarillo

R&T Martin High School                                                           Hermoine Garcia

St. Augustine High School                                                       Daniela Alejandra Santillan-Enriquez

Staggs Academy of International and STEM Studies    Gabriela Ramirez

United High School                                                                    Rosa Salazar

United South High School                                                       Camila Michelle Medina

September’s Youth of Month ceremony is available at: https://fb.watch/8cxkXgKtEW/

LAREDO, Texas – Laredo Sector Border Patrol continued its 35th Annual Youth of the Month program by presenting the honorees for October at a virtual ceremony held on Thursday, October 21, 2021, in Laredo, Texas.

Adapting to the limits that the COVID-19 pandemic has imposed, Laredo Sector, along with community partners, educators, and family came together online to celebrate the incredible achievements and accomplishments of the honorees and present them with the Youth of the Month Award.

Dr. Christian Cabello, also known as Dr. CC from Dr. CC’s Tooth Factory Pediatric Specialists, a proud graduate of Alexander Magnet High School in 2000 and a former Youth of the Month recipient, told students, “You all have the gusto to become what your heart desires.  You had to adapt and change on your own.  You still showed up and made it happen. You pushed through the changes and embraced the adversity and made it happen. This is called grit and you have begun to build what we call grit. Be proud of yourself.”

In closing, Ms. Casandra Garcia Meade, Deputy State Director from Senator Ted Cruz’s South Texas Office, on behalf of the Senator congratulated the honorees in being this month’s Youths of the Month.

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Through the Youth of the Month program, Laredo Sector and community partners have recognized Laredo’s top high school seniors for the past 35 years.  At the end of the school year, one Youth of the Month honoree from each school will be nominated for the prestigious Laredo Sector Youth of the Year Award which will be awarded in May.

LAREDO, Texas – Laredo Sector Border Patrol agents were busy visiting area schools for the annual 2021 Red Ribbon Week.  Red Ribbon Week is a proactive effort to educate the youth about the dangers of drugs and to grow up drug-free.

During Red Ribbon week from Oct. 21-29, agents from the Laredo Sector Border Patrol visited with area elementary schools where they conducted various presentations emphasizing the history of Drug Enforcement Administration Agent Enrique “Kiki” Camarena, a tribute to this fallen Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). According to the DEA, Red Ribbon Week is the nation’s largest and longest-running drug awareness and prevention program.

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The students together with Laredo Sector Border Patrol agents recited the traditional Drug Free Pledge, “I pledge, to set a good example for myself and others, to respect my body and mind and SAY NO TO DRUGS.  I pledge, to be a positive role model for my friends and family and always STAY DRUG FREE.” 

Laredo Sector Border Patrol reminds you to stay away from drugs and report any suspicious activity to 1-800-343-1994.

Records regarding Unaccompanied Minors (UAC),  U.S.B.P UAC Screening,  Prosecutorial Discretion Rodney Scott March 19, 2021. 

HOULTON, ME– Houlton Explorer Post 1820 will conduct its annual “New Explorer Sign-Up” meeting on May 4, 2022, at the Houlton Parks and Recreation Building. This meeting is required for all prospective Law Enforcement Explorer applicants and will begin at 5:00 PM.

Houlton Explorer Post 1820 is sponsored by United States Border Patrol and located in Houlton, Maine. New applicants must be between the ages of 14 and 18, have completed the eighth grade by July 1, 2022, possess good moral character, and maintain at least a “C’ average in school.

Houlton Explorer Post 1820 was commissioned in 2017 and will be holding its fifth Basic Explorer Academy this summer. “The training isn’t easy, and it’s not for everyone,” said Lead Explorer Advisor Mark Phillips. “We set very high standards and hold the Explorers accountable to them.”  

Despite COVID-19 shutdowns, Explorer Post 1820 has continued operating, although the 2020 Basic Explorer Academy was canceled. “The meetings have looked a little different, but we were able to conduct training and many community service projects. This program is as much about leadership development and community service as it is about law enforcement training. Being determined to find a way to contribute and carry on, in the face of adversity, is a lesson these Explorers should carry with them well beyond the program,” Phillips said.  

Law Enforcement Exploring is a Learning for Life, Scouts of America Program. Involvement in the program requires attending meetings, participating in some overnight activities, and receiving basic/ advanced training geared toward a career in Law Enforcement. The ideal candidate will be interested in a law enforcement career, demonstrate an appropriate level of maturity, and be committed to regular attendance.

For additional information, contact Supervisory Border Patrol Agent Mark Phillips at Mark.Phillips@cbp.dhs.gov.

EDINBURG, Texas —On Tuesday, April 26, 2022, Rio Grande Valley (RGV) Sector Border Patrol hosted the Youth of the Year Scholarship Ceremony for the 2021-2022 school year. For 25 years, 63 high schools in the Rio Grande Valley have nominated a graduating senior to represent their high school as the “Head of the Class.” Students are nominated for this award based on their exemplary academic achievements, community service, and drug free lifestyle.  

The distinguished students received a $1,500 scholarship towards post-secondary education. The scholarships are possible through the partnership and generosity of several RGV businesses, including RGV Partnership Foundation, International Bank of Commerce (IBC), Region One Education Service Center , RGV Buick GMC Dealers, and the Shah Eye Center.

In addition to contributing to the Youth of the Year scholarship, Shah Eye Center also donated a free eye corrective surgery, as part of their Visionary Award to a deserving educator.  The 2022 winner, Lindsey Zimmerman, was nominated by her colleagues for her dedicated commitment to her students and school.

The master of ceremonies for this year’s event was KVEO anchor Sydney Hernandez. The guest speaker was South Texas Health System CEO Lance Ames who shared an inspiring account of personal challenges and triumphs. Mr. Ames’ speech was focused on personal growth, the importance of education, perseverance, and thinking beyond your perceived limits. RGV Sector Acting Division Chief of Operations ((A)DC) Jorge L. Gonzalez addressed the eight “Youth of the Year” honorees, school representatives, and families in attendance. The students received special recognition from Senators John Cornyn, Ted Cruz, and Congressman Henry Cuellar.  (A)DC Gonzalez congratulated the students on their outstanding academic achievements, service to community, and encouraged them all to reach for their academic goals. 

Youth of the Year Scholarship Recipients:

Alejandro Ballesteros – Edinburg North High School

Aliyah Cantu – Raymondville Early College High School

Daniela Herbert – Juarez-Lincoln High School

Emily Lara – Progreso Early College High School

Jacqueline Ochoa – Edinburg High School

Alexia Serrata – Veterans Memorial Early College High School

Sophia Silva – Sharyland High School

Victoria Velasquez – Lasara High School

Please visit www.cbp.gov to view additional news releases and other information pertaining to Customs and Border Protection.  Follow us on Twitter @CBPRGV and @USBPChiefRGV.

~CBP~