University Sets Official Opening of WBCA with Pops Concert Feb. 3

Trumpets will blow and drumsticks roll for the official opening event of the 2001 George Washington's Birthday Celebration, the Texas A&M International University Pops WBCA Kickoff Concert on Saturday, Feb. 3 from 3-5 p.m. on the University Plaza.

Admission is free of charge and the event is open to Los Dos Laredos.

Dr. Charles Jennett, A&M International president, said the event has become a favorite activity for the University and a chance to welcome the community at large to the border's remarkable celebration.

"We're delighted to host this yearly official kick off event for the WBCA Celebration. The campus looks forward to this annual event to provide a showcase for musical and dance performances by our students and faculty and to help get the Celebration off to a winning start," Dr. Jennett said.

Event coordinator Betty Momayezi, the University's executive director of student life, said the Saturday afternoon offering is an ideal family outing.

"We encourage everyone to come out to our alcohol-free and family friendly outdoor event. Our afternoon will include a fast-paced series of performances featuring the A&M International Band under the direction of Elmo Lopez Sr.; the Modern Dance Troupe and Classical Spanish Ballet under the direction of Bede Leyendecker and the High Twisters, under the direction of Araceli Rangel.

Also performing are the Chamber Music Ensemble under the direction of Jennifer L. Cahill-Clark, visiting assistant professor of music; the University Choir, under the direction of Dr. Rachel Cruz; the Ballet Folklorico Infantil and the Ballet Folklorico Juvenil under the direction of Gabriela Mendoza-Garcia and our award-winning A&M Mariachi Internacional, also under the direction of Dr. Cruz," Momayezi explained.

Food and refreshments will be sold during the concert and ample parking will be provided.

For additional information, please contact the Office of Public Affairs at 326.2180.

University office hours are from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Monday-Friday.

Journalists who need additional information or help with media requests and interviews should contact the Office of Public Affairs and Information Services at pais@tamiu.edu