Vela Family donates scholarship to local High School Football standout

Roque Vela, Jr. and University of Hardin-Simmons alum presented a personal donation to Alexander High School student, Heribeto Elizondo, who signed on to play football at school...

The annual scholarship award from my father’s endowment should also be a nice help with the expenses of college. While I am looking forward to seeing him in action on the field, I am more excited to see what he will do with his degree from this great university.

Jett Bowl North has been the community’s partner for many fundraising events. Roque and Cookie Vela have for years supported non profit organizations in their goals to raise funds and awareness. They continue to support schools and churches as well as many civic groups by hosting and or partnering with them for bowling tournaments and events.

Organization such as Junior Achievement, The Laredo Builders Association, and many more look to Jett Bowl as great way to fundraise. Throughout the year, Jett Bowl North has also donated to worthwhile charitable events. They often donate food, toys, and money to assist families in need during catastrophic events.

Recently during an unanticipated power outage following a winter storm, Jett Owl opened its doors to. community residents affected by the blackout. Those in need of a warm place to stay were invited to come to Jett Bowl North and spend the night, if needed. These are just some of the examples of the Vela family and Jett Bowl North’s charitable contributions to Laredo. Jett Bowl Lanes continues to give back to the community that has given them so much success.


At last night’s City Council meeting, District V Council Member Roque Vela, Jr. and University of Hardin-Simmons alum presented a personal donation to Alexander High School student, Heribeto Elizondo, who signed on to play football at school. The AHS linebacker stand-out received a $2,000 donation from Vela, as well as being the recipient of an annual $2,000 scholarship from the Roque Vela Endowment, named in honor of the council member’s father, at University of Hardin-Simmons.

“I am extremely proud to present this check to Heribeto to help him with the expenses of his college education,” said Vela, in whose district the high school sits. “I am also extremely proud that a Laredo student will be furthering their education at my alma mater. The annual scholarship award from my father’s endowment should also be a nice help with the expenses of college. While I am looking forward to seeing him in action on the field, I am more excited to see what he will do with his degree from this great university.”