Adrian Cazares, a student at Trautmann Middle School in Laredo, has launched a sunglasses brand called "Chief 21." Classmates and staff know him as "Chief." Trautmann Principal Andrea Garza said he is highly involved at school and is well loved by students.
The idea started when Cazares and his older brother, Gael, began wearing oversized athletic sunglasses. The brand name combines his nickname with chromosome 21, the genetic identifier associated with Down syndrome. Special education teacher America De Leon said the logo's 21 supports Down syndrome awareness. The nickname dates to his childhood, when his father called him "Chivo" because his cries resembled a baby goat. A classmate later misheard the word as "Chief," and the name stuck.
Cazares and his family sell at weekend pop-up markets and are working on a website for the brand. His sister, Adriana Rodriguez, said the family sees the business as long-term and expects it to grow with him into high school and college.
The city recognized Cazares for his entrepreneurial work in recognition of National Down Syndrome Awareness Month.