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Port Isabel Silver Belles alumni gather at Tarpon Stadium for their 50th anniversary halftime celebration. (Courtesy photo by Rosario Taylor)
By Jacqui Leyva-Hill
The Port Isabel Early College High School Silver Belles celebrated 50 years of dance, tradition and Tarpon pride Friday, Nov. 6, with a special halftime performance bringing together alumni from five decades.
The golden anniversary celebration took place at Tarpon Stadium during the Tarpons’ home football game against Kingsville, giving former members an opportunity to return to the field and honor the organization’s history.
More than 20 former Silver Belles, including one male performer, were expected to participate in the reunion, which featured music, choreography and performances representing different generations.
The Silver Belles were established in 1976 by Gloria Valenzuela Gonzalez, whose vision created opportunities for students to develop confidence, discipline, friendships and a passion for dance while representing Port Isabel High School.
Over the past five decades, hundreds of young women and men have participated in the organization, continuing a tradition that has become part of the school’s identity.
The anniversary celebration began with a moment of silence honoring deceased members of the Silver Belles family before transitioning into performances highlighting the organization’s evolution.
The program opened with the current 2026–2027 Silver Belles, followed by alumni performances representing the 2000s through the present, the 1990s, the 1980s and the late 1970s through early 1980s.
Each performance featured music and choreography reflecting its respective era, illustrating how dance styles have changed while the organization’s traditions have endured.
Among the alumni returning for the celebration were former captains and lieutenants, including Velma Sandlin and Rosario Taylor, both members of the Class of 1981.
Other returning performers included Georgina Bennett Fletcher, Class of 1985; Ana Caraveo-Martinez, Class of 1988; Alicia Baldovinos, Class of 1992; and Samantha Chapa, Class of 2021.
The celebration also recognized the organization’s founder, Gonzalez, who was unable to attend, along with past and present directors who helped sustain the program.
Those recognized included Mrs. Sanchez, Janet Branch Gilmore, Luci Barrera DiCorte, Celina Scott, Manuela Alcocer, Lisa Moreno and current director Rosario Taylor.
Taylor, a Silver Belles alumna, has directed the organization for 26 years and devoted considerable time to organizing the anniversary performance, coordinating alumni from multiple graduating classes.
The reunion honored not only the dancers who performed under Friday night lights but also the directors, parents and supporters who contributed to the organization’s longevity.
The golden anniversary brought generations of Silver Belles together to celebrate the vision that began in 1976 and a tradition that continues to represent Port Isabel High School 50 years later.