hat effect them. To be a representative, one must be close to their constituents. It helps to be from the same town, city, or state of the people that they hope to represent. A effective representative should have extensive experience within their district. This means living and working in the area that they represent. By doing this, they have a first hand knowledge of the area, the people, and the culture. This insures that the people's needs will not be ignored. Are they qualified? Roberto Gutierrez Roberto Gutierrez was born and raised in Mission, Texas, and he has spent his life in the Rio Grande Valley, the area that he represents. He is an effective representative because he is familiar with the people and their concerns. Gutierrez invests his time with civic entities such as Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic Church. He has been a member of the McAllen Palm City Lions Club, the McAllen and Pharr Rotary Clubs, Parent Teacher Association, and he also served as former vice-president of the governing board of the McAllen Medical Center. His efforts as a member of these organizations has brought Gutierrez widespread recognition. He has been recognized by various public and private organizations, including The Friends of the UT-Pan American Library, and Amigos de Bomberos. Ruben Hinojosa Ruben Hinojosa was born in Edcouch, Texas. He also attended public school in the Rio Grande Valley. As an executive and owner of H&H Foods, Hinojosa has helped to provide his community over 300 jobs. He has served on the Board of Directors for the South Texas High School for Health Professions and was very instrumental in the success of that school. Hinojosa is an effective representative because he has been the Rio Grande Valley. He has grown up there and has been surrounded by its' people. Since being elected, Hinojosa has helped with the creation of The Women's Empowerment Business Center at UTPA. This center is accessible to all women who wish to start u...
