Zaragoza Society pageant honors Mexican-American legacy in Goliad

GOLIAD, Texas - A tradition continues strong at an annual pageant held in honor of a Goliad hero.

The General Zaragoza Society Pageant featured contestants competing for a scholarship on Saturday.

They are judged on poise, presence, attitude, volunteer work and personal achievements.

The event is meant to highlight the history of General Ignacio Zaragoza, who led the Mexican army to victory against the French at the Battle of Puebla.

Martha Vargas, a volunteer and coordinator with the society, said these events help foster a sense of community and confidence for the contestants.

"In a small town a lot of them leave, a lot of them stay," Vargas said. "But we want them to be strong individuals, we want them to be self thinkers, we want them to go out there and know they can always go out in the real world but they can always come back home to us."

25 News Now evening news anchor Karina Garcia is one of the three judges and will share the names of winners later this evening.

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