Fritz and Viola Valdez in 1954 (above)
and on their fiftieth wedding anniversary (below)

Valdezes celebrate fiftieth in church where they were married

—Sonya Gallegos

A well-known couple from Placitas celebrated their fiftieth wedding anniversary on June 5 at the old Santuario Church in Bernalillo, where they originally exchanged vows in 1954. Immediate family were on hand as Viola and Fritz Valdez walked up the aisle for a second time.

Viola Valdez, born and raised in Placitas, is the daughter of Lorenzo and Clarita Cano, both now deceased. She is one of five brothers and sisters, all born in Placitas. Viola graduated from Our Lady of Sorrows school in Bernalillo in 1954. Shortly after graduation she married Fritz Valdez.

Fritz is originally from Folsom, New Mexico, and is one of fourteen siblings. Fritz received an administrative certificate and a bachelor’s degree in English and history from the University of Albuquerque. Later he earned a master’s degree in guidance and counseling from New Mexico State University. He worked for thirty-one years as a teacher and administrator in the Jemez Valley Schools.

Fritz and Viola have three children, Roxanne, Yvette, and Robert, six grandchildren, and seven great-grandchildren.

Fritz and Viola enjoy being with their family and taking care of their grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Viola is a very talented lady and really enjoys making arts and crafts. She is constantly working on something new.

Fritz and Viola are one-of-a-kind grandparents. They have raised me since I was six weeks old and I think they did an excellent job. They mean everything to me and I just want to tell them “Thank you for raising me and handing me the world.”

Judge Kenneth G. Brown

Judge Brown announces retirement

—Judge Kenneth G. Brown

I have today, July 6, 2004, submitted my resignation as District Judge. My resignation is effective July 31, 2004.

I have been an attorney for the past thirty-three years, of which the last twenty years was as District Judge. I do intend, to some degree, to remain active in the legal profession. I feel that now is the time for retirement. I wish to retire while I can still enjoy my family, friends, and life.

I was elected District Judge in June 1984. For the past two decades it has been my honor and privilege to serve the people in the Thirteenth Judicial District and the state of New Mexico.

Over these past years I have heard thousands of cases of every nature. One of my proudest achievements is my work in the area of juvenile delinquency and the establishment of Grade Court in Sandoval County. This program has, for the past six years, successfully educated our juveniles and prevented repeat offenders.

So many people in Sandoval, Cibola, and Valencia counties have supported me throughout these many years. I wish to express my appreciation to them for the honor they bestowed on me by voting and supporting me.

Thank you.