[Congressional Record Volume 157, Number 56 (Friday, April 15, 2011)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E742-E743]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




RECOGNIZING THE ACCOMPLISHMENTS OF AMERICAS HIGH SCHOOL MOCK TRIAL TEAM

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                          HON. SILVESTRE REYES

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                         Friday, April 15, 2011

  Mr. REYES. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the outstanding 
accomplishments of the Americas High School Mock Trial team from my 
congressional district in El Paso, Texas. On March 5, 2011, at the 
Texas High School Mock Trial Competition, the Americas High School Mock 
Trial team became the first team from El Paso in the competition's 32-
year history to win the Texas state title. This is a remarkable 
achievement that I am proud to recognize.
  Mock Trial offers students across the nation the opportunity to 
develop critical thinking and public speaking skills, as well as 
knowledge of legal practices and procedures, in a real courtroom 
setting. Teams devote long hours to work on case theories and 
examinations to prepare for competition.
  Undefeated in the regional competition for three years in a row, the 
Americas High School Mock Trial team's dedication secured their victory 
as they defeated the defending state champions. The team members 
include Enrique Esparza, Edwin Felix, Zach Fields, Joshua Monarez, 
Nayell Palomino, Jacob Parson, Texas Quezada, Chris Ramos, Savannah 
Rappe, and Anabella Tarango. In addition to the team victory, Zach 
Fields was awarded the Outstanding Advocate Award at the competition in 
a unanimous decision by the judges.
  The Americas High School Mock Trial team is coached by Mr. Robert 
Almonte II, Assistant City Attorney for the City of El Paso, and Mr. 
Jaime Esparza, the District Attorney for the 34th Judicial District of 
Texas. The team's teacher sponsor, Teresa Candelaria, has served as 
their sponsor for seven seasons since 2004. I commend these three 
outstanding professionals for their dedication to the educational 
development of El Paso students.
  Americas High School, located in east El Paso, is one of seven high 
schools in the Socorro Independent School District. The school opened 
in September 1996, serving a predominantly Hispanic student population.
  In early May, the Americas High School Mock Trial team will travel to 
Phoenix, Arizona, to represent the State of Texas at the National High 
School Mock Trial Championship. I am pleased to honor this team for 
their impressive accomplishments, and wish all team members the very 
best in their future endeavors.

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