Webb County Judge Receives Special Honor

Webb County Judge Danny Valdez accepted his Paul Harris Fellow Award from the Laredo Gateway Rotary Club in mid-December at a dinner that broke prior award ceremony attendance records in the group’s 20-year history.
“I am extremely overwhelmed by the honor and the tribute bestowed upon me tonight,” an emotional Valdez told the crowd of elected officials and dignitaries. “You have made my heart so full. From the bottom of my heart, I thank you very much.”
The speech followed a dinner and speeches from Rotarians and invited guests all on hand to honor Valdez and his accomplishments.
Prior to becoming Webb County judge, Valdez served 24 years as justice of the peace.
“Everywhere I went, he was the epitome of a justice of the peace,” said Sylvia Bruni, a former teacher and the evening’s mistress of ceremonies. “As a justice of the peace, he went far beyond the courtroom. I believe that you (guests) are here for the same reason we chose to honor him.”
Latin television star and Valdez’s good friend Johnny Canales reminisced about the creation of Valdez’s Supply Our Students drive, which to date has helped provide tons of school supplies to needy schoolchildren across the Laredo area. The first year, Canales said, the drive raised five tons of supplies. That number now exceeds 16 tons.
During the video tribute, Rotarians and honored guests told the story of Valdez’s decades of public service.
Laredo Mayor Raul Salinas praised the judge for his work, and especially his efforts to strengthen the relationship between the city and the county. The judge acknowledged the mayor’s compliments during his acceptance speech.
“For the first time, the city of Laredo and the county of Webb are partnering to achieve many goals,” Valdez said. “Raul, together we stand.”
Dallas Mavericks coach Avery Johnson appeared on screen to thank Valdez for his commitment to the county’s youth.
“You’re a great man,” Johnson said. “You’ve been so instrumental in helping me connect with the children of Laredo