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Fiesta De Amistad 2026

Page 1

Y o u rGu i d ef o rDe l Ri o , T e x a s


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Ea c hy e a rs t ude nt sf r o m De l Ri oe x p r e s st het r ue me a ni ngo f f r i e nds hi p t hr o ug ha r t . S e et hei ns p i r i nge nt r i e sa nd hi g hl i g h t so npa g e2 7 .

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5 2027Wi 2 ne&Che e s e


We l c o met o2 0 2 6 FI ESTADEAMI STAD I t i sa ne x c i t i ngt i meo f y e a ra so urc o mmuni t i e sc o met o g e t he r o nc ea g a i nt oc e l e b r a t et hef r i e nds hi p , t r a di t i o ns , a ndc ul t ur et ha t ma k eFi e s t adeAmi s t a ds uc has pe c i a l e v e nt . Whe t he ry o ua r ea l o ng t i mes u p po r t e ro ra t t e ndi ngf o rt hefir s t t i me , wea r eg r a t e f ul t ha t y o ua r epa r t o f t hi sc e l e b r a t i o n.

Fi e s t aha sa l wa y sb e e na b o u t b r i ng i ngpe o p l et o g e t he r . I t i sa t i met or e c o nne c t wi t hf r i e nds , e nj o yf a mi l ya c t i v i t i e s , s u p po r t l o c a l o r g a ni z a t i o nsa ndb us i ne s s e s , a ndc e l e b r a t et heuni q ue b o nds ha r e db e t we e nDe l Ri oa ndCi uda dAc uña . es p i r i t o f f r i e nds hi pa ndc o mmuni t yi swha t ma k e s Fi e s t adeAmi s t a dunl i k ea nyo t he re v e nt . Asma nyo f y o uk no w, t he r ea r es e v e r a l c ha ng e st ot hi sy e a r ' sFi e s t a . Whi l ec ha ng ei sno t a l wa y se a s y , t he s ede c i s i o nswe r ema de a e rc a r e f ul c o ns i de r a t i o na ndwi t ho neg o a l i nmi nd—t oc r e a t e t heb e s t po s s i b l eFi e s t ae x pe r i e nc ef o ro urc o mmuni t y . Aso ur e v e nt c o nt i nue st og r o wa nde v o l v e , wemus t a l s oa da p t t o me e t ne wo p po r t uni t i e sa ndc ha l l e ng e s . Weunde r s t a ndt ha t s o meo f t he s ec ha ng e sma yb edi ffe r e nt f r o mwha t pe o p l eha v ee x pe r i e nc e di nt hepa s t , b u t weho pet he y wi l l b ewe l c o me da nde mb r a c e d. Ev e r ya d j us t me nt wa sma de wi t ht hemo s t i mpo r t a nt t hi ngi nmi nd: o r g a ni z i ngaf un, e nj o y a b l e , a nds uc c e s s f ul Fi e s t af o re v e r y o ne . i sy e a r ' sc e l e b r a t i o nwi l l f e a t ur ee x c i t i nge v e nt s , g r e a t e nt e r t a i nme nt , s ho p p i ng , f o o d, mus i c , a nda c t i v i t i e sf o ra l l a g e s . Wee nc o ur a g ee v e r y o net oc o meo u t , pa r t i c i pa t e , a nd e x pe r i e nc ee v e r y t hi ngFi e s t adeAmi s t a dha st oo ffe r .

Andr e wSc a r bo

I nt e r na t i o na l Go o dNe i g hb o rCo unc i l Pr e s i de nt Iwo ul dl i k et ope r s o na l l yt ha nko urv o l unt e e r s , s po ns o r s , c i t ya nd c o unt yl e a e r s , c o mmuni t ypa r t ne r s , a ndt hema nyi ndi v i d ua l swho wo r kt hr o ug ho u t t hey e a rt oma k eFi e s t apo s s i b l e . e i rde di c a t i o n a nds u p po r t he l pk e e pt hi swo nde r f ul t r a di t i o na l i v e . Wel o o kf o r wa r dt oc e l e b r a t i ngwi t hy o uOc t o b e r1 6 –1 8 , 2 0 2 6 . a nky o uf o ry o urc o nt i nue ds u p po r t o f Fi e s t adeAmi s t a d, a nd weho pey o ue nj o ye v e r ymo me nt o f t hi sy e a r ' sf e s t i v i t i e s . S e ey o ua t Fi e s t a ! Andr e wS c a r b o , Pr e s i de nt I nt e r na t i o na l Go o dNe i g hb o rCo unc i l

F i e s t adeAmi s t a d 3


F

o rMa r i e l aLa ne ,l e a de r s hi pi sa b o u ts e r v i ng o t he r s ,i ns p i r i ngc o l l a b o r a t i o n,a ndc r e a t i ng o p po r t uni t i e st ha tb r i ngpe o p l et o g e t he r .AsVi c e Pr e s i de nt o f t heI nt e r na t i o na l Go o dNe i g hb o rCo unc i l De lRi oCha p t e r ,Ma r i e l aha se mb r a c e dar o l et ha t a l l o wshe rt os u p po r tt heo r g a ni z a t i o n' smi s s i o nwhi l e b r i ng i nghe ro wng e nui ne , pe o p l e c e nt e r e da p p r o a c h t ol e a de r s hi p .

Whe t he rhe l p i ngs u p po r t i ngc o mmuni t yi ni t i a t i v e s , f o s t e r i ngi nt e r na t i o na lf r i e nds hi ps ,o ro r g a ni z i ng e v e nt s ,Ma r i e l ar e ma i nsf o c us e do ns t r e ng t he ni ng t heb o ndst ha tma k eDe lRi oa ndCi uda dAc uña s uc hauni q uea ndv i b r a ntb o r de rr e g i o n.Ma r i e l a e nc o ur a g e se v e r y o nei nt hec o mmuni t yt ob e c o me i nv o l v e d, r e mi ndi ngr e s i de nt st ha t whe t he rl a r g eo r s ma l l ,c o nt r i b u t i o np l a y sa ni mpo r t a ntr o l ei nt he s uc c e s so f t hec o unc i l ' se ffo r t s .

Al i f e l o nga dv o c a t ef o rc o mmuni t yi nv o l v e me nta nd c i v i ce ng a g e me nt ,Ma r i e l ab e l i e v e st he s t r o ng e s t Wi t h wa r mt h, h umi l i t y ,a nd a n unwa v e r i ng o r g a ni z a t i o nsa r eb ui l to ns ha r e dc o mmi t me ntt o c o mmi t me ntt os e r v i c e ,Ma r i e l aLa nee x e mp l i fie s s e r v i c e ,t e a mwo r k ,a ndc o mmuni c a t i o n.Wo r k i ng t hev a l ue so ft heI nt e r na t i o na lGo o d Ne i g hb o r a l o ng s i det hec ha p t e r ' sp r e s i de nt ,b o a r dme mb e r s , Co unc i l .r o ug h he rde di c a t i o na nd po s i t i v e v o l unt e e r s , a ndc o mmuni t ypa r t ne r s , s hei sde di c a t e d l e a de r s hi p ,Ma r i e l ahe l pse ns ur et ha tt hes p i r i to f t oa dv a nc i ngt hec o unc i l ' sv i s i o nwhi l ee nc o ur a g i ng a mi s t a d—f r i e nds hi p—c o nt i nue st o flo ur i s hf o r i nno v a t i o n,s t r e ng t he ni ngr e l a t i o ns hi ps ,a ndc r e a t i ng g e ne r a t i o nst oc o me . me a ni ng f ul o p po r t uni t i e st ha tb e ne fitDe l Ri oa ndi t s ne i g hb o r i ngc o mmuni t i e s .

I nt e r na t i o na l Go o dNe i g hbo rCo unc i l De l Ri oCh a p t e r

Fr o mLe f t t oRi g h t :Pr e s i d e n t An d r e wS c a r b o , Vi c ePr e s i d e n t Ma r i e l aLa n e , S e c r e t a r yEs meEs p a r z a , T r e a s u r e rMa i t eRi v e r a 4F i e s t adeAmi s t a d

Fr o mb o t t o ml e f t t ob o t t o mr i g h t ,g o i n gu p :An d r e wS c a r b o , Al c i r aGu e r r a , T i n aMa r t i n e z , Ma i t eRi v e r a , Ma r i e l aLa n e , Be c k yCh a v e z , Es meEs p a r z a , Do r aAl c a l a , Kr i s t aMa l d o n a d o , Ma r yMo t a , Ca r me nGu t i e r r e z , Da n n y Ri n c o n e s , An t o n e t t eT r e v i n o , Ny d i aFe r n a n d e z , Cl a u d i aLo p e zCr u z

Me mb e r sn o t p i c t u r e d :Da v i dS c a r b o , Mi c h e l l eGo me zCa r d e n a s , S t e v e Nu n e z , S a n d r aV a l a d e z , J o e l La n g t o n


A Mes s agef rom ValVerdeCount y

Fi es t adeAmi s t ad i soneoft hemos tc her i s hed t r adi t i onsi n ourr egi on,br i ngi ngt oget her f ami l i es ,nei ghbor s ,bus i nes s es ,andvi s i t or si ncel ebr a t i onoft heuni ques pi r i tt ha tmakesVal Ver deCount ys uc has peci alpl acet ocal lhome . i sannualcel ebr a t i on r eflect st heval uest ha tdefineourcommuni t y—hos pi t al i t y ,r es pect , cul t ur alher i t age ,andas t r ongs ens eofpr i dei nt hepl acewel i ve .I ti sat i mewhengener a t i ons comet oget hert ohonort r adi t i ons ,cr ea t enew memor i es ,andcel ebr a t et her el a t i ons hi pst ha t havehel peds ha peourr egi onf ordecades . ValVer deCount yi spr oud t obepar tofacommuni t yt ha tembr acesi t sr i c h hi s t or ywhi l e cont i nui ngt ol ookt owar dt ot hef ut ur e .Fr om ourvi br antnei ghbor hoodsandl ocalbus i nes s es t o our educa t i onal i ns t i t ut i ons ,mi l i t ar y par t ner s hi ps ,agr i cul t ur al r oot s ,and gr owi ng economy ,t her ei smuc ht ocel ebr a t et hr oughoutourcount y . Event ss uc h asFi es t a de Ami s t ad r emi nd ust ha ts t r ong communi t i esar e bui l tt hr ough cooper a t i on,s er vi ce ,and s har ed exper i ences .We ar e es peci al l y gr a t ef ult ot he count l es s vol unt eer s ,or gani z er s ,s pons or s ,publ i cs af et y per s onnel ,and communi t yl eader s whos e dedi ca t i on makest hi scel ebr a t i on pos s i bl eeac hyear . ei reffor t shel ppr es er veat r adi t i on t ha tcont i nuest ouni t epeopl eacr os sgener a t i ons . Asyouenj oyt hef es t i vi t i es ,weencour ageyout ot aket i met oexper i enceever yt hi ngourci t y hast o offer —f r om l ocalent er t ai nmentand cul t ur alevent st ot heout s t andi ng bus i nes s es , r es t a ur ant s ,anda t t r act i onst ha tcont r i but et ot hequal i t yofl i f ei nValVer deCount y . On behal foft heValVer deCount yCommi s s i oner sCour t ,t hankyouf orbei ngpar toft hi s t r adi t i on.WehopeFi es t adeAmi s t adbr i ngsyouj oy ,s t r engt hensol df r i ends hi ps ,cr ea t esnew ones ,andr emi ndsusal loft her emar kabl ecommuni t ywear epr i vi l egedt os er ve .

Fr om al lofusatValVe r deCount y ,we l c omet oFi e s t adeAmi s t ad. Wewi s hy as a f e ,e n ja b l e ,a n dme ma b l ec e l e b r a t i.

T h a n ky t oa l lt h e vu n t es ,s p ss , a n dc mu n i t y pt n swh oma k e t h i sc e l e b r a t i p o s s i b l e ! VALVERDE COUNTY COMMI SSI ONERSCOURT

Gus t a v oFl o r e s Pc t4

J ua nCa r l o sVa s que z Pc t2

Fe r na ndoGa r c i a Pc t3

Ke r rWa r dl a w Pc t1

F i e s t adeAmi s t a d 5


A MESSAGE FROM

MAYOR ALARREOLA

AND THEDELRI O CI TYCOUNCI L

Ce l e b r a t i n g FRIENDSHIP,CULTURE, a n dCOMMUNI TY

Onbehal foft heCi t yofDelRi o,i ti sourpl eas ur et owel comer es i dent sand vi s i t or st oanot herexci t i ngFi es t adeAmi s t adcel ebr a t i on. Forgener a t i ons ,Fi es t adeAmi s t ad hass er ved asas ymboloft heendur i ng f r i ends hi pbet ween DelRi o,TexasandCi udadAcuna,Coahui l a.Mor et han j us taf es t i val ,i ti sacel ebr a t i onoft hes har edhi s t or y ,cul t ur e ,t r adi t i ons ,and f ami l t yt i est ha tuni t eourbor dercommuni t i es .Eac hyear ,Fi es t adeAmi s t ad r emi nds us t ha twhi l ear i ver may s eper a t e our ci t i es ,f r i ends hi p and cooper a t i oncont i nuet obr i ngust oget her .

ALARREOL A MAYOR

i ss peci alevents howcas est hever ybes tofourcommuni t y .Fr om col or f ul par adesand cul t ur alper f or mancest of ami l yact i vi t i es ,l i veent er t ai nment , and communi t y ga t her i ngs , Fi es t a de Ami s t da hi ghl i ght st he pr i de , hos pi t al i t y ,ands pi r i tt ha tmakesDelRi os uc hawonder f ulpl acet ol i vewor k andvi s i t . As your Mayor and al ong wi t ht he Ci t y Counci l ,we ar e pr oud oft he par t ner s hi ps t ha ts t r engt hen our r egi on ever y day . Toget her wi t h our nei ghbor si n Ci udad Acuna,l ocalbus i nes s es ,communi t y or gani z a t i ons , vol unt eer s ,and count l es s dedi ca t ed i ndi vi dual s ,we cont i nue t o bui l da vi br antand wel comi ng communi t yt ha tcel ebr a t esbot h our her i t age and ourf ut ur e . Wei nvi t eever yonet oenj oyt hef es t i vi t i es ,s uppor tourl ocalbus i nes s es ,and t aket het i met oexper i encet heuni quecul t ur e ,andhos pi t al i yt ha tdefinesDel Ri o.Whet heryouar eal ongt i mer es i dentorvi s i t ngf ort hefir s tt i me ,wehope Fi es t adeAmi s t adcr ea t esl as t i ngmemor i esf oryouandyourf ami l y .  ankyouf orbei ngpar toft hi st r eas ur edt r adi t i on.Wewi s hever yoneas af e , enj oyabl e ,andmemor abl eFi es t adeAmi s t ad.

V i v al aAmi s t a d !

!

CARMEN GUTI ERREZ COUNCI L WOMAN PLACEA

LENO HERNANDEZ COUNCI LMAN DI S TRI CTI I

RANDYQUI NONES COUNCI LMAN DI S TRI CTI I I

ELSA REYES COUNCI L WOMAN DI S TRI CTI

LEROYBRI ONES COUNCI LMAN PLACEC

J PSANCHEZ COUNCI LMAN PLACEB


" Onb e h a l f o f t h ee n t i r eT e a mXLf a mi l y —o u r Ai r me n, c i v i l i a np r o f e s s i o na l s , a ndt h e i r f a mi l i e s —i t i s a n h o no rt owe l c o mey o ut oF i e s t ad eAmi s t a d2 0 2 6 . i sc e l e b r a t i o nh o no r st h ed e e pf r i e nd s h i pu ni t i n gLa u g h l i nAi rF o r c eBa s e ,De lRi o ,a ndCi u d a d Ac u ña . Ou rp a r t ne r s h i pi sno t j u s t at r a d i t i o n; i t i st h ef o u nd a t i o no f o u rs u c c e s sa ndwh a t ma k e st h i s r e g i o ns os p e c i a l . i sy e a r ’ sF i e s t ai se s p e c i a l l yme a ni n g f u l a swec e l e b r a t et h et h e me , " 2 5 0Y e a r so f Ame r i c a nVo i c e sa nd I n t e r na t i o na lF r i e nd s h i p s . "et h e mer e mi nd su st h a twh i l eweh o no ro u rna t i o n ’ sh i s t o r ya nd a c h i e v e me n t s , wea l s or e c o g ni z et h ei mp o r t a nc eo f t h ep a r t ne r s h i p st h a t s t r e n g t h e no u rc o mmu ni t i e s a nde nr i c ho u rl i v e s . Wh e t h e ry o ua r ea t t e nd i n gf o rt h efi r s t t i meo rc o n t i n u i n gaf a mi l yt r a d i t i o nt h a t s p a n sg e ne r a t i o n s , we h o p ey o ut a k ep r i d ei nt h es p i r i t o f u ni t yt h a t t h i se v e n t r e p r e s e n t s .

"Th i sc e l e b r a t i o nh o n o r st h e d e e pf r i e n d s h i pu n i t i n gLa u g h l i n Ai rFo r c eBa s e , De l Ri o , a n d Ci u d a dAc u ñ a . ” — Co l . Er i cM. Bi s s o n e t t e

eu n wa v e r i n gs u p p o r t f r o mo u r De l Ri oa ndAc u ñane i g h b o r s e na b l e s t h e4 7 t hF l y i n gT r a i ni n gWi n g t of o c u so no u rc r i t i c a l mi s s i o n: f o r g i n gt h ene x t g e ne r a t i o no f c o mb a t r e a d ya v i a t o r s . ec o nne c t i o nb e t we e no u rc o mmu ni t i e sd i r e c t l yb o l s t e r so u rna t i o n' sa i r p o we ra ndwea r ep r o u dt o b ey o u rne i g h b o r s . “ F r o ma l l o f u sa t La u g h l i nAi rF o r c eBa s e , t h a nky o uf o rma k i n gu sp a r t o f y o u rf a mi l y . Wel o o kf o r wa r dt oc e l e b r a t i n ga l o n g s i d ey o u . "

F i e s t adeAmi s t a d 7


AsMa y o ro fCi uda dAc uña ,Emi l i oDeHo y o sMo nt e ma y o rha sb e c o mea r e c o g ni z e dl e a de rc o mmi t t t e dt oe c o no mi c de v e l o p me nt ,c o mmuni t y p r o g r e s sa ndt hee nd ur i ngr e l a t i o ns hi pb e t we e nCi uda dAc uñaa ndDe l Ri o . epa r t ne r s hi pb e t we e nDe lRi oa ndCd.Ac uñai so neo ft hes t r o ng e s t e x a mp l e so f i nt e r na t i o na l f r i e nds hi pf o unda ny whe r ea l o ngt heUni t e dS t a t e s Me x i c ob o r de r . r o ug hc o l l a b o r a t i v ee ffo r t si nc o mme r c e ,t o ur i s m, e d uc a t i o n, p ub l i cs a f a e t y , a ndc ul t ur a l e x c ha ng e , b o t hc i t i e sc o nt i nuet owo r k t o g e t he rf o rt heb e s t i nt e r e s t o f t her e g i o n. Ma y o rDeHo y o sha sb e e nav i s i b l es u p po r t e ro ft he s ee ffo r t s ,r e g ul a r l y pa r t i c i pa t i ngi nc r o s s b o r de ri ni t i a t i v e sa ndc o mmuni t ye v e nt st ha tc e l e b r a t e t hes ha r e dhi s t o r y .

Th ef r i e n d s h i pb e t we e n Ci u d a dAc u ñ aa n dDe l Ri oi sa p a r t n e r s h i pb u i l t o nr e s p e c t , c o o p e r a t i o n , a n ds h a r e dh i s t o r y . ea nnua lAb r a z odel aAmi s t a ds e r v e sa so neo ft hemo s ts y mb o l i c r e mi nde r so ft ha tr e l a t i o ns hi p .I t ’ sat i med ur i ngFi e s t awhe nc i v i cl e a de r s f r o mb o t hs i de sc o met o g e t he rt or e a ffir mt hec o mmi t me nt o f f r i e nds hi p , a nd mu t ua lr e s pe c t .Ma y o rDe ho y o sp r o udl yr e p r e s e nt sCi uda dAc uñai nt he p r e s e r v a t i o no f at r a di t i o nt ha t c o nt i nue st ouni t et her e g i o n.

ee c o no mi cpa r t ne r s hi pb e t we e nt het woc i t i e sc o nt i nue st ot hr i v e ,wi t h wo r k f o r c ec o l l a b o r a t i o n,ma nuf a c t ur i ng ,a ndi nt e r na t i o na lt r a dec o nt r i b u t i ng s i g ni fic a nt l yt ot hep r o s pe r i t yo fb o t hc o mmuni t i e s . Ma y o rEmi l i oDeHo y o sha s c ha mp i o ne di ni t i a t i v e st ha t e nc o ur a g ei nv e s t me nt , s u p po r t e c o no mi cg r o wt h, a nd c r e a t ene wo p po r t uni t i e sf o rr e s i de nt swhi l ep r e s e r v i ngt her i c hc ul t ur a l he r i t a g e t ha t ma k e sCi uda dAc uñauni q ue . r o ug hhi sl e a de r s hi p , Ma y o rDeHo y o sha sde mo ns t r a t e das t r o ngc o mmi t me nt t ob ui l di ngab r i g h t e rf u t ur ewhi l eho no r i ngt het r a di t i o nsa nds ha r e dv a l ue st ha t ha v el o ngc o nne c t e dCi uda dAc uñaa ndDe l Ri o . Hi sde di c a t i o nt os t r e ng t he ni ng c r o s s b o r de rr e l a t i o ns hi psc o nt i nue st of o s t e rf r i e nds hi p ,c o o pe r a t i o n,a nd p r o g r e s sf o rg e ne r a t i o nst oc o me . .

Onb e ha l f o f t hec i t i z e nso f Ci uda dAc una , i t i smyp l e s a ur et o we l c o mee v e r y o net oFi e s t adeAmi s t a d2 0 2 6 . F o rg e ne r a t i o ns , Fi e s t adeAmi s t a dha sc e l e b r a t e dt hef r i e nds hi p , c ul t ur e , a nds ha r e dhe r i t a g et ha t uni t eo urt woc o mmuni t i e s . i se v e nt r e mi nds ust ha t whi l ea ni nt e r na t i o na l b o r de rs e pe r a t e so urc i t i e s , t heb o ndso f f a mi l y , f r i e nds hi pa ndmu t ua l r e s pe c t b r i ng sust o g e t he r . Fi e s t ai sat i met oc e l e b r a t eo urt r a di t i o ns , e nj o yg r e a t mus i c , f o o d, e nt e r t a i nme nt , a ndr e c o g ni z et ho s ewhoc o nt r i b u t et ot hes uc c e s so f o ur r e g i o n.I t i sa l s oa no p po r t uni t yt os t r e ng t he nt hec o nne c t i o nst ha t ha v e ma det heDe l Ri o Ci uda dAc unar e l a t i o ns hi po neo f t hemo s t e nd ur i ng a nda dmi r e dpa r t ne r s hi psa l o ngt heb o r de r . Ii nv i t ea l l v i s i t o r st oe nj o yt hema nye v e nt s, a c t i v i t i e sa ndc e l e b r a t i o ns t ha t t a k ep l a c ei nCd. Ac unad ur i ngFi e s t a . T o g e t he rwewi l l ho no ro ur pa s t , c e l e b r a t eo urp r e s e nt a ndl o o kf o r wa r dt oab r i g h t f u t ur eb ui l t o n f r i e nds hi pa ndc o o pe r a t i o n. Emi l i oD eH oyosM

ont e mayor

Pr e s i d e n t eMu n i c i p a l ( Ma y o r ) Ci u d a dAc u n a , Co a h u i l aMe x i c o

F i e s t adeAmi s t a d9


BUI LDI NGBRI DGESBETWEEN NATI ONSANDCOMMUNI TI ES

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eader s hi p t he n a bor dercommuni t y wher e Under her l ul a t e ofMexi co i n DelRi o i nt er na t i onal r el a t i ons hi ps Cons r eac h effor t s s ha pe dai l yl i f e ,t he wor k of has expanded out i gned t o as s i s t Mexi can t heMexi canCons ul a t epl aysan des t i z ens l i vi ng i n t he Uni t ed i mpor t ant r ol ei n s t r engt heni ng ci a t es . eofficepr ovi despas s por t cul t ur alt i es ,s uppor t i ng ci t i z ens , St a t i on s er vi ces , and f os t er i ng cooper a t i on.Att he and document t h r es our ces , educa t i onal cent eroft ha tmi s s i oni nDelRi oi s heal ogr ams , and s uppor t f or Pal oma Vi l l as enorVar gas ,Cons ul pr f ami l i es navi ga t i ng cr os s bor der ofMexi coi nDelRi o,Texas . i s s ues . Comuni t y wor ks hi psand nf or ma t i ons al pr ogr ams hel p Si ncear r i vi ngi n DelRi oi n 2020, i es i dent sbet t erunder s t and t hei r Cons ulVi l l as enorhaswor ked on r i ght sandavai l abl es er vi ces . mai nt ai ni ngands t r engt heni ngt he r l ongs t andi ng f r i ends hi p bet ween l l as enoremphas i z esont heneed DelRi o and Ci udad Ac uña whi l e Vi nt ai ni ngac l os er el a t i ons hi p al s o s er vi ng Mexi can Na t i onal s ofmai and communi ct i on wi t h t he t hr oughoutt her egi on. communi t y . r ough educa t i onal ni t i a t i ves ,cul t ur alpr ogr ams ,and A s eas oned di pl oma t and publ i c i t ner s hi ps wi t h s ever al l ocal s er vant ,Vi l l as enorbr i ngsdecades par gani z a t i ons ,t heCons ua t ewor ks of exper i ence i n gover nment , or o pr es er vet heMexi can her i t age i nt er na t i onalr el a t i ons ,and publ i c t canCons ul at ei nDelRi opr ovi desawi de omot e oppor t uni t i es f or TheMexi admi ni s t r a t i on.Pr i ort o DelRi o, and pr r angeofs er vi cesands uppor tt oMexi canci t i z ens g r o w t h a n d s u c c e s s o n b o t h s i d e s s he s er ved asMexi co’ sCons uli n t hr oughoutTexas . hebor der . Cal gar y ,Al ber t a,Canada.She has oft al s o hel d pos i t i ons i n f eder al gover nmentands er vedi nMexi co’ s na t i onall egi s l a t ur e . i shasgi ven Thes t r engt hof her a br oad under s t andi ng of ourbor derr egi on publ i c pol i cy and i nt er na t i onal l i esi nt her el at i ons hi ps cooper a t i on. webui l dandt he Hert enur e hasal s ocoi nci dedwi t h cont i nuedeconomi cgr owt hi nt he DelRi oCi udad Ac uña r egi on.As i nt er na t i onal t r ade bet ween t he Uni t edSt a t es ,Mexi coandCanada cont i nuest o expand,t hewor ki ng r el a t i ons hi pbet weent het wos i s t er ci t i es has become i ncr eas i ngl y i mpor t ant .Vi l l as enorcons i s t ent l y s uppor t s effor t st ha ts t r engt hen r egi onal cooper a t i on, commer ce andeconomi cdevel opment .

oppor t uni t eeswe cr eat et oget her

Today ,t he Mexi can cons ul a t ei n Del Ri o r emai ns an i mpot ant r es our cef orr es i dent st hr oughout TheDelRi oCi udadAc r i dorr emai nsoneof u ñ acor outt her egi on. t hemos ti mpor t anti nt er nat i onalgat eways r ough di pl omacy , communi t y , connect i ngTexasandMexi co. engagement ,and publ i cs er vi ce , Cons ulPal omaVi l l aSenorVar gas THEMEXI CAN cont i nues t o bui l d connect i on CONSULATEI N DELRI O s t ha t bene bot h na t i on whi l e r ei nf or i ci ng t he uni que bond SERVI CESI NCUDED: bet ween Del Ri o and Ci udad Ac uña . •Passports& Documentation

•LegalAssistance •Health& EducationPrograms •CommunityOutreach •ProtectionServices •CulturalInitiatives

Cons ul at eout r eachpr ogr ams br i nges s ent i als er vi ces and i nf or mat i ondi r ect l yt ot he communi t y .

Thepor tofEnt r ybet ween u ñ ai DelRi oandCi udadAc s avi t all i nkf ort r ade,t our i s m, andf ami l i es

Cul t ur alevent sandcel ebr at i ons hel ppr es er veMexcanher i t age andpr omot euni t yacr os sour bor dercommuni t i es .

Cons ul adedeMexi co enDelRi o F i e s t adeAmi s t a d 1 1


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FRI DAY OCTOBER2

ATRADI TI ONOFFRI ENDSHI P . AFUTUREOFUNI TY .

HONORI NGOURHERI T AGE. BUI L DI NGOURFUTURE.

eFi e s t adeAmi s t a dKi c k o ffCe l e b r a t i o n ma r k st heo ffic i a l b e g i nni ngo f o ur c o mmuni t y ’ smo s t c he r i s he dt r a di t i o n.

T o g e t he r , wec e l e b r a t eo urs ha r e dhe r i t a g e,

Aswec e l e b r a t et he2 5 0 t hAnni v e r s a r yo f Ame r i c a , weho no rt hema nyv o i c e st ha t ha v es ha pe do urna t i o na ndt hei nt e r na t i o na l f r i e nds hi pst ha t c o nt i nuet os t r e ng t he no ur r e g i o n.

Ac una , Me x i c o .

o urc ul t ur a l p r i de , a ndt hee nd ur i ngb o nd t ha t uni t e sDe l Ri o , T e x a sa ndCi uda d

i ss pe c i a l e v e ni ngwi l l i nc l udei ns p i r i ng p r e s e na t i o ns , r e c o g ni t i o no f c o mmmmuni t y l e a de r sa ndv o l unt e e r s , ap r e v i e wo f t he e x c i i t nge v e nt sp l a nne df o rFi e s t ade Ami s t a d2 0 2 6 , a ndp l e nt yo f o p po r t uni t ue s t oc o nne c t wi t ho l da ndne wf r i e nds .

F i e s t adeAmi s t a d 1 5


eAb r a z odeAmi s t a di so neo f t hemo s t me a ni ng f ul e v e nt so f Fi e s t adeAmi s t a d. Re p r e s e nt a t i v e sa nddi g ni t a r i e sf r o mMe x i c o a ndt heUni t e dS t a t e sc o met o g e t he ra t t heAmi s t a dDa mt o ho no rt hef r i e nds hi p , r e s pe c t , a ndc o o pe r a t i o ns ha r e d b e t we e no urt wona t i o ns .

Che c kI nt e r na t i ona l GoodNe i ghbor De l Ri oonF a c e book f or upda t e dt i mea ndl oc a t i on

Re u n i t i n g• Bo n d i n g•Fr i e n d s h i p• Re s p e c t sf r o mb o t hs i d e so ft h eb o r d e rj o i nt o g e t h e rf o rame a n i n g f u l r e u n i o n Di g n i t a r i e

a n dar e n e we db o n d i n go ff r i e n d s h i pa n dr e s p e c t . Th eg a t h e r i n gr e p r e s e n t smo r et h a na no f fic i a l c e r e mo n y , i t i sar e mi n d e ro fs t r o n gc u l t u r a l , f a mi l y , b u s i n e s s, a n dc o mmu n i t yt i e st h a t c o n n e c t b o t hn a t i o n s .

UNI T YA CROS SBORDE RS

He l da t t h ei n t e r n a t i o n a l b o u n d a r y , t h e Ab r a z os y mb o l i z e su n i t y . Le a d e r s ,

o f fic i a l sa n dg u e s t e x c h a n g eg r e e t i n g s a n de mb r a c e sa sas i g no fg o o d wi l l .

GE NE RA T I ONSOFF RI E NDS HI P

Fo rg e n e r a t i o n s , De l Ri oa n dCi u d a d Ac u ñ ah a v es h a r e dt r a d i t i o n s , h i s t o r y , a n daf r i e n d s h i pb u i l t o nu n d e r s t a n d i n g , r e s p e c t a n dt h ea b i l i t yt owo r kt o g e t h e r .

ACHE RI S HE DT RA DI T I ON

Asp a r t o fFi e s t ad eAmi s t a d , t h i se v e n t r e ma i n sac h e r i s h e dt r a d i t i o n , c e l e b r a t i n gt h eb o n db e t we e nt h et wo s i s t e rc i t i e sa n dt h ep e o p l ewh o c o n t i n u et os t r e n g t h e nt h ec o n n e c t i o n .

F i e s t adeAmi s t a d 1 5


Ae rg e ne r a t i o nsa sado wnt o wnt r a di t i o n, t heFi e s t adeAmi s t a dPa r a det a k e sa ne x c i t i ngne wr o u t e i n2 0 2 6-c o nne c t i ngt hec o mmuni t yt oe v e nmo r eFi e s t af una tt heVa l Ve r deCo unt yF a i r g r o unds . F o rg e ne r a t i o ns ,t heFi e s t adeAmi s t a d Br i ng i ngt he ANe wRo ut ef o ra Pa r a deha sb e e no neo fDe lRi o ' smo s t Bi Co mmuni t yTo g e t he r g g e rFi e s t aEx pe r i e nc e c he r i s he dt r a di t i o ns .S i nc ei t sb e g i nni ng , Al t ho ug hc ha ng ec a ns o me t i me sb e sy e a rt heFi e s t adeAmi s t a dPa r a de di t hepa r a deha sb e e nas t a p l eo fdo wnt o wn i ffic ul t ,t he ne w pa r a de r o u t e e g i nsa ne x c i t i ngne wc ha p t e rwi t ha p De l Ri o ,b r i ng i ng t o g e t he rf a mi l i e s ,b r o mi s e st ob r i ngt hes a mee x c i t e me nt , o u t ede s i g ne dt oe nha nc et heo v e r a l lc b us i ne s s e s , c o mmuni t yo r g a ni z a t i o ns , a nd r o l o r ,a ndc e l e b r a t i o nt ha tha v ema de e s t ae x pe r i e nc ef o rpa r t i c i pa nt sa nd t v i s i t o r si n ac e l e b r a t i o no ff r i e nds hi p ,Fi he Fi e s t a de Ami s t a d Pa r a de a s pe c t a t o r s .Whi l et hepa r a de ' sr o o t sc c ul t ur e , a ndho me t o wnp r i de . he r i s he d De l Ri o t r a di t i o n f o r wi l la l wa y sb et i e dt odo wnt o wnDe lg e ne r a t i o ns .Whi l et he pa r a de wi l l Y e a ra e ry e a r ,t ho us a ndsha v el i ne dt he Ri o , t hi sy e a r ' sr o u t eha sb e e nc a r e f ul l y f o l l o w a di ffe r e nt pa t h i n pa r a der o u t et oe nj o yma r c hi ngb a nds ,p l a nne dt oc r e a t eab e t t e rflo wf o r2 0 2 6 ,i t ss p i r i tr e ma i nsunc ha ng e dc o l o r f ul flo a t s , Fi e s t ar o y a l t y , c i v i cg r o u ps ,a t t e nde e sa ndt oc o nne c tt hepa r a de b r i ng i ngt hec o mmuni t yt o g e t he rt o fir s tr e s po nde r s ,a ndl o c a ll e a de r s .F o r di r e c t l ywi t ht hema nya c t i v i t i e st a k i ng c e l e b r a t ef r i e nds hi p ,c ul t ur e ,a nd ma nyf a mi l i e s ,a t t e ndi ngt hepa r a deha sp l a c et hr o ug ho u t Fi e s t awe e k e nd. ho me t o wnp r i de . b e c o meat r a di t i o npa s s e ddo wnt hr o ug h e p a r a d e w i l l c o n c l u d e a t t h e V a l Wi t ha nt i c i pa t i o nt ha t t hi sne wc ha p t e r g e ne r a t i o ns ,c r e a t i ng l a s t i ng me mo r i e s Ve r de Co unt yF a i r g r o unds , whe r e i swa r ml ye mb r a c e db yr e s i de nt sa nd a nds t r e ng t he ni ngc o mmuni t yt i e s . f e s t i v a l g o e r s c a n c o nt i nue t he v i s i t o r sa l i k e ,Fi e s t awi l lc o nt i nuet o e l e b r a t i o n wi t ho u t i nt e r r u p t i o n. ho Ati t she a r t ,Fi e s t adeAmi s t a di sa b o u tc no rt het r a di t i o nst ha tha v ema dei t wr o u t ei sde s i g ne dt op r o v i de s b r i ng i ngpe o p l et o g e t he r .I nc e l e b r a t i ng ene os pe c i a l . ene wr o u t ewi l l c r e a t ea n mp r o v e d t r a ffic flo w, e x pa nde d o t hef r i e nds hi pa nd c ul t ur a lc o nne c t i o ni p po r t uni t yt oc o nne c tt hepa r a de i e wi ng o p po r t uni t i e s ,e a s i e ra c c e s s wi s ha r e db e t we e n De lRi oa nd Ci uda dv t ht hema nya c t i v i t i e st a k i ngp l a c ea t o pa r k i ng ,a nd a mo r es e a ml e s st Ac uña , t hef e s t i v a lha sg r o wni nt oo neo ft he c o unt y f a i r g r o unds ,a l l o wi ng r a ns i t i o nf r o m t he pa r a de t ot he e t he r e g i o n' s mo s ta nt i c i pa t e da nnua lt v e r y o ne t oe nj o yaf ul lda yo f e s t i v a lg r o unds .Mo s ti mpo r t a nt l y ,e e v e nt swhi l er e ma i ni ngt r uet oi t ss p i r i tf nt e r t a i nme nt , s ho p p i ng , f o o d, mus i c , i ta l l o ws t he c o mmuni t yt oe nj o y a o f uni t y , c o mmuni t y , a ndc e l e b r a t i o n. ndf a mi l yf un. e v e r y t hi ngFi e s t adeAmi s t a dha st o Ho no r i ngTr a di t i o n, Mo s ti mpo r t a nt l y ,t he pa r a de wi l l o ffe ri no nec e nt r a l l o c a t i o n. Embr a c i ngt heFut ur e c o nt i nuet ob r i ngt hefla i r , e ne r g y , a nd Ast hefina lflo a tpa s s e sa ndt hel a s tf e s t i v ea t mo s p he r et ha tDe lRi oha s Al t ho ug ht hepa r a dei st a k i ngane wpa t h ma r c hi ng b a nd r e a c he st he c o unt y c o met oe x pe c te a c h Fi e s t as e a s o n. i n2 0 2 6 ,i t smi s s i o nr e ma i nst hes a me .f a i r g r o unds ,t he c e l e b r a t i o n wi l l Fi e s t adeAmi s t a d Fi e s t adeAmi s t a dc o nt i nue st oc e l e b r a t ec o nt i nuewi t hl i v ee nt e r t a i nme nt , f o o d f r i e nds hi p , c ul t ur e , a ndc o mmuni t ywhi l ev e ndo r s ,s ho p p i ng ,e x hi b i t s ,f a mi l y c r e a t i ngo p po r t uni t i e sf o rpe o p l et oc o me a c t i v i t i e s ,a nd Cha r r oEx t r e mo ,a t o g e t he ra ndma k el a s t i ngme mo r i e s . hi g ha dr e na l i ne ,a c t i o npa c k e de v e nt . Ce l e b r a t et h ePa s t , Emb r a c et h eFu t u r e

Fi e s t adeAmi s t a dPa r a de2 0 2 6

F i e s t adeAmi s t a d 1 7


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neofFi e s t adeAmi s t a d' smos ta nt i c i pa t e da t t r a c t i onsi sg e t t i nga ma j or upg r a dei n2 0 2 6 .eFi e s t adeAmi s t a dAr t s& Cr a sMa r ke twi l lmov et oi t s e x c i t i ngne whomea tt heVa lVe r deCount yFa i r g r ounds ,offe r i ngmor es pa c e ,mor e v e ndor s , a nda ne v e nbe t t e re x pe r i e nc ef orv i s i t or s .

hema r ke twi l lbe SCHEDULED FOR OCTOBER 16–18,2026,t c onv e ni e nt l yl oc a t e dwhe r et heFi e s t apa r a der out ec onc l ude s ,ma ki ngi tt hepe r f e c t de s t i na t i onf orpa r a de g oe r st oc ont i nuet hec e l e br a t i ona l lwe e ke ndl ong . S hopawi dev a r i e t yofuni queha ndma dei t e ms ,bout i quet r e a s ur e s ,j e we l r y ,home de c or ,a r t wor k,s pe c i a l t yf oods ,a ndg i sf r om t a l e nt e dl oc a la ndr e g i ona lv e ndor s . Enj oyl i v emus i c , de l i c i ousf ood, a ndr e f r e s hi ngdr i nkswhi l ey oubr ows ea nde x pl or e . Wi t hmor er oom,mor ev e ndor s ,a ndav i br a ntne wa t mos phe r e ,t hi sy e a r ’ sma r ke t wi l lbet hebi g g e s ta ndbe s ty e t !

Se t h i n gf E vy e !

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neoft hemos ta nt i c i pa t e de v e nt sofDe l Ri o' sa nnua l Fi e s t adeAmi s t a dc e l e br a t i on i ss e tt or e t ur nwi t ha l l t hee x c i t e me nt , t r a di t i on, a ndpa g e a nt r yt ha tf a nsha v ec ome t oe x pe c t .Cha r r oEx t r e mowi l lt a kec e nt e rs t a g eOc t obe r1 6 –1 8 ,2 0 2 6 ,a tt heVa l Ve r deCount yFa i r g r ounds ,br i ng i ngt og e t he rt a l e nt e dc ha r r os ,s ki l l e dhor s e me n,a nd e nt hus i a s t i cs pe c t a t or sf or a n unf or g e t t a bl es howc a s e of Me x i c a nc ul t ur ea nd hor s e ma ns hi p. Cha r r oEx t r e moc ombi ne st her i c ht r a di t i onsofMe x i c o' sna t i ona ls por t ,c ha r r e r í a ,wi t h t he e ne r gy a nd e x c i t e me ntofa mode r nr ode os t y l ee x hi bi t i on.Fe a t ur i ng da r i ng hor s e ma ns hi p,pr e c i s i on ma ne uv e r s ,a nd c r owdpl e a s i ng pe r f or ma nc e s ,t he e v e nt hi g hl i g ht st hei nc r e di bl ebondbe t we e nr i de ra ndhor s ewhi l ec e l e br a t i ngt hehe r i t a g e s ha r e dbyc ommuni t i e sonbot hs i de soft hebor de r . r oug houtt het hr e e da yc e l e br a t i on,s pe c t a t or sc a ne x pe c tt hr i l l i ngpe r f or ma nc e st ha t s howc a s ea g i l i t y ,s pe e d,a ndpr e c i s i on,a l ongwi t hc ol or f ula t t i r e ,t r a di t i ona lmus i c ,a nd t heunmi s t a ka bl ea t mos phe r et ha tma ke sc ha r r oe v e nt ss ouni que .Fr om e x pe r i e nc e d c ha r r osde mons t r a t i ngy e a r sofde di c a t i on t oe me r g i ngr i de r se a g e rt odi s pl a yt he i r t a l e nt s , Cha r r oEx t r e mooffe r ss ome t hi ngf ore v e r y one . eVa lVe r deCount yFa i r g r oundspr ov i det hepe r f e c ts e t t i ngf ort hi se x c i t i nge v e nt , a l l owi ngv i s i t or st oe x pe r i e nc et hes i g ht s ,s ounds ,a ndt r a di t i onst ha tha v ema dec ha r r o c ompe t i t i onsabe l ov e dpa r tofMe x i c a na ndbor de r l a ndc ul t ur ef org e ne r a t i ons .e s pa c i ousv e nuec r e a t e sa na ut he nt i ca r e naa t mos phe r ewhe r es pe c t a t or sc a ne nj oye v e r y mome ntoft hea c t i on. AsFi e s t adeAmi s t a dc ont i nue si t smi s s i on ofc e l e br a t i ngf r i e nds hi p,he r i t a g e ,a nd c ommuni t y ,Cha r r oEx t r e mos t a ndsouta soneoft hef e s t i v a l ' ss i g na t ur ea t t r a c t i ons .So whe t he ry oua r eal ong t i mef a nofc ha r r e r í aora t t e ndi ngf ort hefir s tt i me ,ma kepl a nst o j oi nt hee x c i t e me ntOc t obe r1 6 –1 8 ,2 0 2 6 ,a tt heVa lVe r deCount yFa i r g r oundsf ora we e ke ndoft r a di t i on,hor s e ma ns hi p,a ndunf or g e t t a bl eme mor i e s .

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orma nyye a r s ,J e a nneha sbe e na pa s s i ona t es uppor t e rofFi e s t ade Ami s t a da ndi t smi s s i onofc e l e br a t i ng t hee ndur i ngf r i e nds hi pbe t we e nDe lRi o,Te xa s , a ndCi uda dAc uña ,Coahui l a .He re nt hus i a s m f ort hea nnualc e l e br a t i on,c ombi ne dwi t hhe r c ommi t me ntt oc ommuni t yi nvol ve me nt ,ha s ma dehe rar e s pe c t e da ndf a mi l i a ra ndfigur e t hr oughoutt heor ga ni z a t i ona ndt heDe lRi o. I na ddi t i ont ohe rs uppor tofFi e s t adeAmi s t a d, J e a nneha spl a ye da ni mpor t a ntr ol ei nt he s uc c e s soft heMi s sDe lRi oPa ge a nt . r ough he re nc our a ge me nt ,me nt or s hi p,a ndde di c a t i on t ot hepr ogr a m,s heha she l pe ds uppor tyoung wome na st he yde ve l opc onfide nc e ,l e a de r s hi p s ki l l s ,a ndas pi r i tofs e r vi c et ot he i r c ommuni t y .He rc ont r i but i onsha veha da l a s t i ngi mpa c tonge ne r a t i onsofpa r t i c i pa nt s a ndt he i rf a mi l i e s . Forma nyye a r s ,J e a nneha sbe e na pa s s i ona t e s uppor t e rofFi e s t ade Ami s t a da ndi t smi s s i on ofc e l e br a t i ngt hee ndur i ngf r i e nds hi pbe t we e n

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De lRi o,Te xa s ,a ndCi uda dAc uña ,Coahui l a . He re nt hus i a s mf ort hea nnualc e l e br a t i on, c ombi ne dwi t hhe rc ommi t me ntt oc ommuni t y i nvol ve me nt ,ha sma dehe raf a mi l i a ra nd r e s pe c t e dfigur et hr oughoutt heor ga ni z a t i ona nd t hec ommuni t y . I na ddi t i ont ohe rs uppor tofFi e s t adeAmi s t a d, J e a nneha spl a ye da ni mpor t a ntr ol ei nt he s uc c e s soft heMi s sDe lRi oPa ge a nt . r oughhe r e nc our a ge me nt ,me nt or s hi p,a ndde di c a t i ont o t hepr ogr a m,s heha she l pe ds uppor tyoung wome na st he yde ve l opc onfide nc e ,l e a de r s hi p s ki l l s ,a ndas pi r i tofs e r vi c et ot he i rc ommuni t y . He rc ont r i but i onsha veha dal a s t i ngi mpa c ton ge ne r a t i onsofpa r t i c i pa nt sa ndt he i rf a mi l i e s .  eFi e s t adeAmi s t a dAs s oc i a t i oni shonor e dt o r e c ogni z eJ e a nneRoef orhe rma nyc ont r i but i ons a ndi se xc i t e dt oc e l e br a t ehe ra c hi e ve me nt s dur i ngt hi sye a r ' sf e s t i vi t i e s .He rs e l e c t i ona s Pa r a deMa r s halr e fle c t st hea ppr e c i a t i ona nd gr a t i t udeofac ommuni t yt ha tha sbe ne fit e d gr e a t l yf r om he rde di c a t i ona nds uppor t .

Par t i ci pat i ngi nt hepl anni ngoft he RedCr os sevent( 2009)

F i e s t adeAmi s t a d 2 1


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eI n t e r na t i o na l Go o dNe i g h b o rCo u nc i l i sp r o u dt or e c o g ni z eF r a nk Me nd o z aa sMr . Ami s t a d2 0 2 6 , h o no r i n gama nwh o s el i f eh a sb e e nd e fi ne db y s e r v i c e , l e a d e r s h i p , a nda nu n wa v e r i n gc o mmi t me n t t ot h eDe l Ri oc o mmu ni t y . Bo r na ndr a i s e di nCh i c a g o , F r a nkMe nd o z ah a ss p e n t mu c ho f h i sl i f ei n De l Ri oc o n t r i b u t i n gt ot h eg r o wt ha nds u c c e s so f t h ec o mmu ni t yh ep r o u d l y c a l l sh o me . r o u g h o u t t h ey e a r s , h eh a sb u i l t ar e p u t a t i o na sad e d i c a t e d b u s i ne s s ma n, c o mmu ni t ys u p p o r t e r , me n t o r , a ndf r i e ndt oc o u n t l e s si nd i v i d u a l s a c r o s st h er e g i o n. Hi sd e e pr o o t si nDe l Ri oa ndh i sp a s s i o nf o rh e l p i n go t h e r s h a v ema d eh i mo neo f t h ec o mmu ni t y ' smo s t r e s p e c t e da nda d mi r e dc i t i z e n s . I n1 9 7 6 , F r a nke mb a r k e do nar e ma r k a b l ej o u r ne ywh e nh eo p e ne dh i sfi r s t Mc Do na l d ' sr e s t a u r a n t i nDe l Ri o . Wh a t b e g a na sas i n g l eb u s i ne s sv e n t u r eh a s g r o wni n t one a r l yfi v ed e c a d e so f d e d i c a t i o n, h a r dwo r k , a ndc o mmi t me n t t o s e r v i n gt h ec o mmu ni t y . Li k ema n yl o n g t i meDe l Ri or e s i d e n t s , h eu nd e r s t a nd s t h ev a l u eo f c o mmu ni t ya ndt h ei mp o r t a nc eo f g i v i n gb a c k . Wh e t h e rt h r o u g h c i v i ci n v o l v e me n t , v o l u n t e e re ffo r t s , s u p p o r t i n gl o c a l o r g a ni z a t i o n s , o ra s s i s t i n g c o mmu ni t yp r o j e c t s , F r a nkh a sc o n s i s t e n t l yd e mo n s t r a t e dawi l l i n g ne s st os e r v e wh e r e v e rh ei sne e d e d . Hi sc o mmi t me n t e x t e nd sb e y o ndi nd i v i d u a l o r g a ni z a t i o n s . F o rd e c a d e s , F r a nk h a sb e e nas t r o n gs u p p o r t e ro f t h et r a d i t i o n s , e v e n t s , a ndc u l t u r a l c e l e b r a t i o n s t h a t ma k eDe l Ri ou ni q u e . Heh a sh e l p e dp r e s e r v et h es p i r i t o f f r i e nd s h i pt h a t h a sl o n gc o nne c t e dDe l Ri oa ndCi u d a dAc u ña , e mb r a c i n gt h ei d e a l so f c o o p e r a t i o n, r e s p e c t , a ndmu t u a l s u p p o r t t h a t a r ea t t h eh e a r t o f F i e s t ad e Ami s t a d . o s ewh ok no wF r a nkd e s c r i b eh i ma sama no f i n t e g r i t y , h u mi l i t y , a nd g e ne r o s i t y . Hei sk no wnf o rl e nd i n gah e l p i n gh a nd , o ffe r i n ge nc o u r a g e me n t , a ndwo r k i n gb e h i ndt h es c e ne st oe n s u r et h a t c o mmu ni t yp r o j e c t ss u c c e e d . Hi s l e a d e r s h i ps t y l eh a sa l wa y sf o c u s e do nb r i n g i n gp e o p l et o g e t h e ra ndfi nd i n g c o mmo ng r o u ndf o rt h eb e ne fi t o f a l l . et i t l eo f Mr . Ami s t a di sa wa r d e dt oi nd i v i d u a l swh oe x e mp l i f yt h ev a l u e so f f r i e nd s h i p , g o o d wi l l , a nds e r v i c e . F r a nkMe nd o z ar e p r e s e n t st h o s eq u a l i t i e si n e v e r ys e n s e . Hi sl i f e l o n gd e d i c a t i o nt ot h ep e o p l eo f De l Ri o , h i ss u p p o r t o f c o mmu ni t yi ni t i a t i v e s , a ndh i sc o mmi t me n t t op r e s e r v i n gt h et r a d i t i o n st h a t u ni t eo u rb o r d e rc o mmu ni t i e sma k eh i me x c e p t i o na l l yd e s e r v i n go f t h i sh o no r . AsF i e s t ad eAmi s t a d2 0 2 6c e l e b r a t e st h ee nd u r i n gf r i e nd s h i pb e t we e nt h e Uni t e dS t a t e sa ndMe x i c o , i t i sfi t t i n gt h a t F r a nkMe nd o z ab er e c o g ni z e df o rh i s ma n yc o n t r i b u t i o n sa ndy e a r so f s e r v i c e . Hi se x a mp l er e mi nd su st h a t s t r o n g c o mmu ni t i e sa r eb u i l t b yi nd i v i d u a l swh oc h o o s et oi n v e s t t h e i rt i me , e ne r g y , a ndh e a r t si n t oma k i n gad i ffe r e nc e . eI n t e r na t i o na l Go o dNe i g h b o rCo u nc i l p r o u d l yc o n g r a t u l a t e sF r a nk Me nd o z ao nb e i n gna me dMr . Ami s t a d2 0 2 6a ndt h a nk sh i mf o rt h ep o s i t i v e i mp a c t h eh a sma d et h r o u g h o u t t h ec o mmu ni t y . Hi sl e g a c yo f s e r v i c e , f r i e nd s h i p , a ndc i v i cp r i d ewi l l c o n t i n u et oi n s p i r ef u t u r eg e ne r a t i o n s .

F i e s t adeAmi s t a d 2 3


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a c hy e a r ,Fi e s t adeAmi s t a dc e l e br a t e s t heuni quebondbe t we e nDe lRi o, Te xa s ,a ndCi uda dAc uña ,Coa hui l a , Me xi c o—af r i e nds hi pbui l tonc ul t ur e , t r a di t i on,a ndc ommuni t y .Re pr e s e nt i ng t hos eva l ue swi t hgr a c ea nde nt hus i a s ma s Ms .Ami s t a d2026i sMi c he l l eGonz a l e z ,a de di c a t e da ndr e s pe c t e dc ommuni t yl e a de r whoha sma deal a s t i ngi mpa c tonDe lRi o.

AsMs .Ami s t a d,Mi c he l l es e r v e s a sa na mba s s a dorf oroneofDe l Ri o' smos tc he r i s he dt r a di t i ons . r oughoutFi e s t adeAmi s t a d, s her e pr e s e nt st hes pi r i tof f r i e nds hi pt ha tha suni t e d ne i ghbor i ngc ommuni t i e sa c r os s t hebor de rf org e ne r a t i ons .He r r ol ei nc l ude spa r t i c i pa t i ngi n offic i a lc e r e moni e s ,c ommuni t y e v e nt s ,pa r a de s ,a ndc e l e br a t i ons t ha ts howc a s et her i c hhe r i t a g e s ha r e dbybot hna t i ons .

Knownt hr oughoutt hec ommuni t yf orhe r pos i t i v es pi r i ta ndc ommi t me ntt ol oc a l or ga ni z a t i ons ,Mi c he l l eha sl ongbe e n i nv ol v e di ne v e nt st ha tbr i ngpe opl et og e t he r . He rpa s s i onf ore duc t i on,y out hde v e l opme nt , Fr i e ndsa ndc ol l e a gue sde s c r i be a ndc i vi ce nga g e me ntha sma dehe raf a mi l i a r Mi c he l l ea ss ome onewhol e a ds f a c ea tc ommuni t yc e l e br a t i ons ,s c hool bye xa mpl e ,a l wa y swi l l i ngt o a c t i vi t i e s ,a ndc ul t ur a le v e nt s .Sheha sa l s o v ol unt e e rhe rt i mea ndt a l e nt st o be e na c t i v e l yi nv ol v e dwi t ht heMi s sDe lRi o s uppor tl oc a lc a us e s .He ra bi l i t y Pa g e a nta ndFi e s t adeAmi s t a da c t i vi t i e s , t oc onne c twi t hpe opl ef r om a l l he l pi ngpr omot et het r a di t i onst ha tma ket he wa l ksofl i f er e fle c t st het r ue a nnua lc e l e br a t i ons os pe c i a l . me a ni ngof" a mi s t a d" —f r i e nds hi p.

Congr at ul at i onst oMi chel l eGonz al ezonbei ngnamedMs .Ami s t ad2026. Herdedi cat ont ocommuni t ys er vi ceandherpas s i onf orpr es er vi ngt he t r adi t i onsofFi es t adeAmi s t admakeheranout s t andi ngr epr es ent at i ve oft hi st r eas ur edcel ebr at i on.

2 4F i e s t adeAmi s t a d


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a c hs p r i n g , c o mmu ni t yme mb e r sg a t h e rf o ro neo f De l Ri o ' smo s t a n t i c i p a t e dc h a r i t a b l ee v e n t s —t h ea nn u a lI GNC Wi ne& Ch e e s e F u nd r a i s e r . Co mb i ni n ga ne v e ni n go ff e l l o ws h i p , e n t e r t a i nme n t , a nd p h i l a n t h r o p y , t h ee v e n th a sb e c o meab e l o v e dt r a d i t i o nt h a tb r i n g st o g e t h e r f r i e nd s ,f a mi l i e s ,l o c a lb u s i ne s s e s ,a ndc o mmu ni t yl e a d e r si ns u p p o r to fa wo r t h yc a u s e . ene x t f u nd r a i s e r i s s c h e d u l e df o r Ma r c h1 9 , 2 0 2 7 , a ndo r g a ni z e r s a r ea l r e a d y l o o k i n gf o r wa r dt oa no t h e rs u c c e s s f u l e v e ni n gfi l l e dwi t hfi newi ne s , d e l i c i o u s c h e e s e s , e x c i t i n gr a fflep r i z e s , a ndc o mmu ni t ys p i r i t . Gu e s t s a t t e nd i n gt h ef u nd r a i s e r e n j o yawe l c o mi n ga t mo s p h e r ewh e r et h e yc a n v i s i t wi t hf r i e nd swh i l es u p p o r t i n gp r o g r a msa nds e r v i c e st h a t ma k eap o s i t i v e d i ffe r e nc ei nt h el i v e so f l o c a l f a mi l i e s . r o u g h o u t t h ee v e ni n g , a t t e nd e e sh a v e o p p o r t u ni t i e st op a r t i c i p a t ei nr a ffle s ,s i l e n ta u c t i o n s ,a nds p e c i a ld r a wi n g s f e a t u r i n gg e ne r o u s l yd o na t e di t e msf r o ml o c a l b u s i ne s s e sa nds u p p o r t e r s . Oneo ft h ee v e n t ' sg r e a t e s ts t r e n g t h si st h ed e d i c a t i o no ft h ev o l u n t e e r sa nd c o mmi t t e e me mb e r s wh o wo r kt i r e l e s s l yb e h i nd t h es c e ne s .F r o m c o o r d i na t i n gd o na t i o n s a ndd e c o r a t i n gt h ev e n u et oo r g a ni z i n gt i c k e t s a l e s a nd we l c o mi n gg u e s t s , t h e i re ffo r t sh e l pc r e a t eame mo r a b l ee x p e r i e nc ey e a ra e r y e a r .

V o l u n t e e r swe l c o meg u e s t sa n dc o o r d i n a t er a f fl ea c t i v i t e s .

ef u nd r a i s e ra l s os e r v e sa sac e l e b r a t i o no fc o mmu ni t yp r i d e .Lo c a l d i g ni t a r i e s , F i e s t ar o y a l t y , b u s i ne s sl e a d e r s , a ndr e s i d e n t sc o met o g e t h e rf o ra n e v e ni n gt h a t s h o wc a s e s t h eg e ne r o s i t ya ndc o mp a s s i o nt h a t d e fi neDe l Ri o . e b e a u t i f u l l yd e c o r a t e dv e n u e , l i v e l yc o n v e r s a t i o n s , a nds t r o n ga t t e nd a nc er e fl e c t t h ec o mmu ni t y ' sc o mmi t me n t t os u p p o r t i n go r g a ni z a t i o n st h a t s e r v eo t h e r s . Asp r e p a r a t i o n sb e g i nf o rt h e2 0 2 7e v e n t , o r g a ni z e r si n v i t et h ec o mmu ni t yt o ma r kt h e i rc a l e nd a r sa ndj o i nt h e mo nMa r c h1 9 , 2 0 2 7 . Wh e t h e ra t t e nd i n gf o r t h efi r s tt i meo rc o n t i n u i n gal o n g s t a nd i n gt r a d i t i o n,g u e s t sc a ne x p e c ta n e n j o y a b l ee v e ni n go f f o o d , f r i e nd s h i p , a ndf u nd r a i s i n g —a l l f o rag r e a t c a u s e . Th ea n n u a l I GNCWi n e&Ch e e s eFu n d r a i s e rr e ma i n sas h i n i n g e x a mp l eo f wh a t c a nb ea c c o mp l i s h e dwh e nac o mmu n i t yc o me s t o g e t h e rt os u p p o r t o n ea n o t h e r .

S p e c i a lp r e s e n t a t i o na n dd o n a t e di t e msc o n t r i b u t et ot h ee v e n i n g ’ ss u c c e s s . Pr o c e e dsf r o mt heI GNCWi ne&Che e s eF undr a i s e r s u p po r t p r o g r a msa nds e r v i c e st has t r e ng t he nf a mi l e s , a ndi mp r o v el i v e st hr o ug ho u t o urc o mmuni t y . a nky o ut oa l l o urs u p po r t e r s , s po ns o r s , do no r s , v ul unt e e r s , a ndg ue s t sf o rma k i nf adi ffe r e nc e . Co mmu n i t ya mb a s s a d o r sa n dFi e s t aRo y a l t yh e l ps u p p o r t t h ea n n u a l f u n d r a i s e r .

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Ar tCo nt e s t Ea c hy e a r , t heFi e s t adeAmi s t a dAr t Co nt e s t p r o v i de sl o c a l s t ude nt s wi t hauni q ueo p po r t uni t yt os ho wc a s et he i ra r t i s t i ct a l e nt swhi l e c o nt r i b u t i ngt oat r a di t i o nt ha the l pss u p po r tf u t ur ee d uc a t i o na l o p po r t uni t i e si no urc o mmuni t y . CREATI VI TY, CULTURE, COMUNI TY Att heb e g i nni ngo fe a c hs c ho o ly e a r ,s t ude nt sf r o m De l Ri oa nds ur r o undi ngs c ho o l sa r ei nv i t e dt os ub mi t o r i g i na l a r t wo r kf o rc o ns i de r a t i o ni nt hea nnua l Fi e s t a deAmi s t a dAr tCo nt e s t . ec o mpe t i t i o ne nc o ur a g e s y o ung a r t i s t st oe x p r e s st he i rc r e a t i v i t y whi l e c e l e b r a t i ng t he c ul t ur e , he r i t a g e ,a nd s p i r i to f f r i e nds hi pt ha t Fi e s t adeAmi s t a dr e p r e s e nt s . A pa ne lo fj udg e sc a r e f ul l yr e v i e wse a c hs ub mi s s i o na nds e l e c t sa wi nni ngp i e c et ha t b e c o me st heo ffic i a l c o v e ra r t wo r kf o rt heFi e s t ade Ami s t a dMa g a z i ne . Ha v i ngt he i ra r t wo r kf e a t ur e do nt hef r o nt c o v e ri s at r e me ndo usho no ra nd p r o v i de st he wi nni ng s t ude ntwi t h c o mmuni t y wi der e c o g ni t i o nf o rt he i ra r t i s t i ca c hi e v e me nt . SCHOLARSHI P& RECOGNI TI ON I na ddi t i o nt os e e i ngt he i rwo r ks ho wc a s e dt hr o ug ho u t Fi e s t as e a s o n, t hewi nni nga r t i s tr e c e i v e sas c ho l a r s hi p a wa r d,he l p i ngs u p po r tt he i rf u t ur ee d uc a t i o na lg o a l s . e s c ho l a r s hi pr e fle c t st he I nt e r na t i o na l Go o d Ne i g hb o rCo unc i l ' sc o mmi t me ntt oi nv e s t i ngi nt he ne x tg e ne r a t i o no fl e a de r s ,c r e a t o r s ,a ndc o mmuni t y me mb e r s .

ARTTHATGI VESBACK ei mpa c to ft heAr tCo nt e s te x t e ndsf a rb e y o ndt he ma g a z i nec o v e r . Al l a r t wo r ks ub mi t t e db ypa r t i c i pa t i ng s t ude nt si sdi s p l a y e da ndl a t e ra uc t i o ne dd ur i ngt he I nt e r na t i o na l Go o dNe i g hb o rCo unc i l ' sa nnua l Wi ne& Che e s eF undr a i s e r . i spo p ul a re v e ntb r i ng st o g e t he r c o mmuni t yme mb e r s , b us i ne s s e s , a nds u p po r t e r swho b i do nt hes t ude nt s ' c r e a t i o nswhi l ehe l p i ngr a i s ef unds f o rf u t ur es c ho l a r s hi pp r o g r a ms . ea uc t i o nha sb e c o meo neo ft hehi g hl i g h t so ft heWi ne&Che e s e Re c e p t i o n,a l l o wi nga t t e nde e st op ur c ha s euni q ue ,o ne o f a k i nd p i e c e swhi l edi r e c t l ys u p po r t i ngl o c a ls t ude nt s .Pr o c e e dsf r o mt he a uc t i o nhe l pe ns ur et ha ts c ho l a r s hi psc a nc o nt i nuet ob ea wa r de dt o de s e r v i ngy o unga r t i s t sy e a ra e ry e a r .

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eFi e s t adeAmi s t a dAr t Co nt e s t i smo r et ha nj us t ac o mpe t i t i o n—i t i sac e l e b r a t i o no fc r e a t i v i t y ,e d uc a t i o n,a ndc o mmuni t ys u p po r t . r o ug ht het a l e nto fo urs t ude nt sa nd t heg e ne r o s i t yo fo ur c o mmuni t y ,t hep r o g r a mc o nt i nue st oi ns p i r ey o unga r t i s t swhi l e c r e a t i ngo p po r t uni t i e st ha tc a nma k eal a s t i ngdi ffe r e nc ei nt he i r f u t ur e s .

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Ar t wo r ks h o wc a s e da t t h e Wi n e&Ch e e s ee v e n t .

Ma r c h1 9 F i e s t adeAmi s t a d 2 7


I GNCSCHOLARSHI PPROGRAM In v e s t i n gi nt h e Fu t u r e o f De l Ri o ’ sYo u t h

Oneo f t hemo s t me a ni ng f ul wa y st heI nt e r na t i o na l Go o dNe i g hb o r Co unc i l ( I GNC)o f De l Ri os e r v e st hec o mmuni t yi st hr o ug h i t sa nnua l s c ho l a r s hi pp r o g r a m, whi c hhe l psl o c a l s t ude nt s p ur s uehi g he re d uc a t i o na nda c hi e v et he i rdr e a ms .

es c ho l a r s hi pp r o g r a mi sma depo s s i b l et hr o ug ht hede di c a t i o n a ndg e ne r o s i t yo f c o mmuni t yme mb e r s , l o c a l b us i ne s s e s , s po ns o r s , a nds u p po r t e r swhopa r t i c i pa t ei nI GNCf undr a i s i nge v e nt s t hr o ug ho u t t hey e a r .

F o rma nyy e a r s , t heI GNCha sr e ma i ne dc o mmi t t e dt o s u p po r t i ngt hene x t g e ne r a t i o no f l e a de r sb ya wa r di ng s c ho l a r s hi pst og r a d ua t i ngs e ni o r sf r o mDe l Ri oHi g hS c ho o l . ep r o g r a mr e c o g ni z e ss t ude nt swhoha v ede mo ns t r a t e d a c a de mi ca c hi e v e me nt , l e a de r s hi p , c o mmuni t yi nv o l v e me nt , a ndac o mmi t me nt t oma k i ngapo s i t i v ei mpa c t o n t he i rc o mmuni t y .

Oneo f t heo r g a ni z a t i o n' smo s t s uc c e s s f ul f undr a i s e r si st hea nnua l Wi ne&Che e s eRe c e p t i o n, whe r ep r o c e e dsa r edi r e c t e dt o wa r d s t ude nt s c ho l a r s hi ps . ee v e nt b r i ng st o g e t he rr e s i de nt sf r o mb o t h s i de so f t heb o r de rf o ra ne v e ni ngo f f e l l o ws hi pwhi l es u p po r t i ng e d uc a t i o na l o p po r t uni t i e sf o rl o c a l s t ude nt s . Ev e r yt i c k e t s o l da nd e v e r ydo l l a rr a i s e dhe l psf unds c ho l a r s hi psf o ra r e ag r a d ua t e s .

I nr e c e nt y e a r s , t heo r g a ni z a t i o nha sa wa r de dmul t i p l e s c ho l a r s hi psa nnua l l y , he l p i ngde s e r v i ngs t ude nt so ffs e t t her i s i ngc o s t so f c o l l e g et ui t i o n, b o o k s , a nde d uc a t i o na l e x pe ns e s . Dur i ngt he2 0 2 6s c ho l a r s hi pc y c l e , t hep r o g r a m o ffe r e d$ 1 , 0 0 0s c ho l a r s hi pst og r a d ua t i ngDe l Ri oHi g h S c ho o l s e ni o r s , c o nt i nui ngal o ng s t a ndi ngt r a di t i o no f i nv e s t i ngi nl o c a l y o u t h.

Addi t i o na l s u p po r t c o me sf r o ms po ns o r s hi ps , do na t i o ns , Fi e s t ade Ami s t a da c t i v i t i e s , a ndo t he rc o mmuni t yf undr a i s i nge ffo r t so r g a ni z e d b yt hec o unc i l . e s ee v e nt sno t o nl yhe l pr a i s ef undsb u t a l s o s t r e ng t he nt hes p i r i t o f f r i e nds hi pa ndc o o pe r a t o t ha s i nt ha t heo r g a ni z a t i o nf o rde c a de s .

Thr o ug he d uc a t i o nwes t r e ng t he nt hef ut ur eo fo ur c o mmuni t ya ndt hef r i e nd s hi p st ha t c o nne c t sg e ne r a t i o ns .

I GNCSCHOLARSHI PPROGRAM F ACTS An n u a l s c h o l a r s h i p sa wa r d e dt o De l Ri oHi g hSc h o o l s e n i o r s . Sc h o l a r s h i p sa wa r d e d a n n u a l l yt os t u d e n t s .

Fu n d e dt h r o u g hf u n d r a i s i n ge v e n t s a n dc o mmu n i t yd o n a t i o n s . Su p p o r t e db y t t h ea n n u a l I GNC Wi ne& Che e s eRe c e pt i o n.

Ar t c o n t e s t a n dc o mmu n i t ys p o n s o r s h i p s h e l pf u n de d u c a t i o n a l o p p o r t u n i t i e s .

Th es c h o l a r s h i pp r o g r a mr e fl e c t st h ec o r emi s s i o no f t h eI n t e r n a t i o n a l Go o dNe i g h b o rCo u n c i l — t ob u i l dab r i g h t e rf u t u r et h r o u g he d u c a t i o n , l e a d e r s h i p , a n dc o mmu n i t ys e r v i c e . THANKYOUTOOURGENEROUSDONORSANDSUPPORTERS!

Y o u rs u p p o r t c h a n g e sl i v e sa n dc r e a t e so p p o r t u n i t i e sf o rab r i g h t e rt o mo r r o w. SUPPORTI NGEDUCATI ON •BUI LDI NGLEADERS •STREGTHENI NGFRI ENDSHI P

F i e s t adeAmi s t a d 2 7


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De l Ri oh a sf o r me dal o n ga n dl a s t i n gf r i e n d s h i pa n du n i t ywi t hCi u d a dAc u ñ a b u i l t wi t ht h ea s s i s t a n do ft h eGo o dNe i g h b rCo u n c i l .

BUI LDI NGFRI ENDSHI PS Today,theInternationalGoodNeighborCouncil e gathering also provided opportunities to c o nt i nue st o uni t ec i t i z e ns f r o m b o t h na t i o ns e x c ha ng ei de a s , r e c o g ni z eo u t s t a ndi ngc ha p t e r sa nd ACROSSBORDERS t hr o ug hc o mmuni t ys e r v i c e ,e d uc a t i o na li ni t i a t i v e s ,v o l unt e e r s ,a nd de v e l o p ne wi ni t i a t i v e st ha twi l l

s c ho l a r s hi ps ,c ul t ur a le x c ha ng e s ,a nd a nnua lb e ne fit c o mmuni t i e so nb o t hs i de so f t heb o r de r . F o r c o nv e nt i o ns .Ev e r yf a l l ,me mb e r sg a t he ri nt he me mb e r so ft heDe lRi oCha p t e r ,t heMo nt e r r e y Uni t e dS t a t e sf o rt hea nnua lc o nv e nt i o n, whi l ee a c h c o nv e nt i o ns e r v e da sar e mi nde rt ha t t hef r i e nds hi ps s p r i ngt heo r g a ni z a t i o nc o nv e ne si nMe x i c o . f o r me dt hr o ug ht heI nt e r na t i o na lGo o dNe i g hb o r o s ef a mi l i a r wi t h t he I nt e r na t i o na l Go o d Co unc i le x t e nd f a rb e y o nd a nnua l me e t i ng s . Ne i g hb o r Co unc i l( I GNC) p r o b a b l yk no wt he e s eme e t i ng sp r o v i dea no p po r t uni t yf o rde l e g a t e s , o r g a ni z a t i o ni sr e s po ns i b l ef o rDe lRi o ’ sAb r a z o s eme e t i ng sr e p r e s e nt e dde c a de so fc o o pe r a t i o n c i v i cl e a de r s ,e d uc a t o r s ,a ndc o mmuni t yv o l unt e e r s e c e r e mo ny ,whi c hs y mb o l i z e st hede e pt i e st ha tl i nk ui l t o nmu t ua l r e s pe c t , unde r s t a ndi ng , a ndas ha r e d t o di s c us si s s ue so fmu t ua li nt e r e s t ,c e l e b r a t eb t heUni t e dS t a t e sa ndMe x i c o .eI GNC,ho we v e r , d e s i r e t o s t r e n g t h e n t h e r e l a t i o n s h i p b e t w e e n t h e s uc c e s s f ulpa r t ne r s hi ps ,a nds t r e ng t he nt heb o nds ha samuc hmo r es t o r i e dhi s t o r yt ha t da t e sb a c kmo r e U n i t e d S t a t e s a n d Me x i c o . e y r e fl e c t t h e s t r o n g t ha t ha v ede fine dt heo r g a ni z a t i o ns i nc ei t sf o undi ng . t ha nha l f ac e nt ur y . b o nd b e t we e n ne i g hb o r i ng c o mmuni t i e sa nd ndi r e c t l yb e ne fit t o ur i s ma ndt r a de . Oneo ft hehi g hl i g h t so ft hepa s ty e a rwa st he2 0 2 5 i I twa si n1 9 5 4whe nt wop r o mi ne ntb us i ne s s me n, S p r i ngCo nv e nt i o nhe l di nMo nt e r r e y , Nue v oLe ó n, J o s eF . Mug ue r z ao fMe x i c oa ndGl e nGa r r e to ft he h eI n t e r n a t i o n a l Go o dNe i g h b o rCo u n c i l l o o k s whe r ede l e g a t e sf r o mc ha p t e r sa c r o s st heUni t e d Ast Uni t e d S t a t e s , f o unde d t he i nt e r na t i o na l o wa r dt h ef u t u r e , i t smi s s i o nr e ma i n sa sr e l e v a n t S t a t e sa ndMe x i c og a t he r e di nt hec i t ywhe r et he t o r g a ni z a t i o n.e i ro b j e c t i v e wa st op r o mo t e t o d a ya si t wa si n1 9 5 4 . o r g a ni z a t i o n wa so r i g i na l l yf o unde d mo r et ha n f r i e nds hi pb e t we e nt hec o unt r i e so ft heWe s t e r n s e v e nt yy e a r sa g o . ec o nv e nt i o nc e l e b r a t e dt her i c h He mi s p he r e ,wi t has pe c i a lf o c uso ns t r e ng t he ni ng nawo r l dwhe r ei nt e r na t i o na lc o o pe r a t i o ni smo r e hi s t o r yo ft heI GNC whi l ef o c us i ngo ni t sf u t ur eI t her e l a t i o ns hi pb e t we e nt heUni t e dS t a t e sa nd i m p o r t a n t t h a n e v e r , t h e o r g a n i z a t i o n c o n t i n u e s t o mi s s i o n o f f o s t e r i ng c o o pe r a t i o n b e t we e n Me x i c o . p r o v et ha tl a s t i ng f r i e nds hi ps b e g i n wi t ho ne ne i g hb o r i ngc o mmuni t i e s . ha nds ha k e , o nec o nv e r s a t i o n, a ndo nee mb r a c ea ta ehe a dq ua r t e r so ft heI GNC wa se s t a b l i s he di n i me . Re p r e s e nt a t i v e sf r o mt heDe lRi oCha p t e rp r o udl y t Mo nt e r r e y , Me x i c o , a ndi t wa s n ’ t l o ngb e f o r ec ha p t e r s pa r t i c i pa t e da l o ng s i def e l l o wme mb e r sf r o ma c r o s s b e g a n f o r mi ng t hr o ug ho u t b o t h c o unt r i e s , b o t hna t i o ns . r o ug ho u tt hec o nv e nt i o n, a t t e nde e s pa r t i c ul a r l ya l o ngt heb o r de r .eDe lRi oCha p t e r , t o o k pa r t i n b us i ne s s me e t i ng s , c ul t ur a l a l o ngwi t hma nyo t he r s , ha sp r o udl yc a r r i e do nt ha t p r e s e nt a t i o ns ,l e a de r s hi pdi s c us s i o ns ,a ndg o o dwi l l mi s s i o n f o r de c a de sb y p r o mo t i ng c ul t ur a l e v e nt s t ha t r e i nf o r c e d t he o r g a ni z a t i o n ’ s unde r s t a ndi ng ,e d uc a t i o na lo p po r t uni t i e s ,a nd c o mmi t me nt t oi nt e r na t i o na l f r i e nds hi p . l a s t i ng f r i e nds hi ps b e t we e n ne i g hb o r i ng c o mmuni t i e s . TheI nt e r na t i o na l Go o dNe i g hb o rCo unc i l Co nt i nue saTr a d i t i o no fUni t y

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I C KAP OOC A VE R N 5 K S T A T EP AR K Ap p r o x . 6 0mi l e s e s o f De l R i o E x p l o r eo n eo f T e x a s ’ u n d e v e l o p e dc a v e s y s t e ms i nt h eb e a u t i f u l Hi l l C o u n t r y . A b o v e g r o u n d , e n j o yh i k i n g , b i k i n g , a n di n c r e d i b l es t a r l l e ds k i e s . C a mp s i t e s : F u l l h o o k u pwi t hwa t e r o n l y

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AMI S T ADE X P E DI T I ONS ( 8 3 0 ) 7 0 2 0 1 2 7 S h u t t l es e r v i c e• k a y a kr e n t a l s R i v e r l o g i s t i c s a mi s t a d e x p e d i t i o n s . c o m ANGE L LE X P E DI T I ONS ( 4 3 2 ) 3 8 4 2 3 0 7 Gu i d e dC a n o e/ k a y a kt r i p s S h u t t l eS e r v i c e• Mu l t i d a yt r i p s R i v e r e x p e d i t i o n s a n g e l l e x p e d i t i o n s . c o m I MAGI NET HA TOUT F I T T E R S( 8 3 0 ) 7 4 3 9 8 8 9 Gu i d e ds h i n gt r i p s R i v e r e x p e d i t i o n s i ma g i n e t h a t o u tt t e r s . c o m F ARWE S TT E X ASOUT F I T T E R S( 5 1 2 ) 6 3 2 4 0 4 1 Gu i d e dp a d d l i n g/s h i n gt r i p s Mu l t i d a ya d v e n t u r e s f a r we s t t e x a s o u tt t e r s . c o m A l l g u i d e s a r e r e c o g n i z e db y t h e T e x a s P a r k s & Wi l d l i f e De p a r t me n t . R e s e r v a t i o n s r e q u i r e d . WH I T E S H A MA NT OU R S R E S E R V E T H R OU G HT H EWI T T I E MU S E U M E x p e r i e n c e t h e s p i r i t u a l a n dc u l t u r a l h e r i t a g e o f t h e r e g i o no na Wh i t e S h a ma n T o u r

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From Miss Del Rio 2026


Miss Del Rio Jazel Sanchez

A Crown, A Celebration A Future

Meet the Miss Del Rio 2026 Delegates

I Fix my Daughters Crown

Miss Del Rio Princess Sian Kamila Meza

XOXO It’s Pageant Time More than a Crown

The Inspiring Journey of Hailey Dailynn Alonso

The Good Neighbors

Miss Congeniality Vianka Andrea Diaz Lozano

Miss Del Rio & Cd. Acuña’s Señorita Amistad

More than a Photograph Naomi Cepeda

History is Happening Now

Miss Del Rio Community Involvement & Appearances

A Queen’s Abrazo The Impact of the Crown

Fiesta de Amistad Royalty

When Good Neighbors Meet the Open Road

Little Mr. Amistad 2026 Nathanial Rome Diaz

Blast From the Past

A Legacy of Love, Faith, and Amistad Bella Abigail Dominguez

Keepers of the Crown


ere are crowns that arkle beneath the lights, and then there are crowns that carry a calling. For Jazel Sanchez, 18, a graduate of Del Rio High School and the reigning Miss Del Rio 2026, the crown represents more than beauty, tradition, or a title. It represents an opportunity to discover who she is, develop her gis, and use her platform with purpose. Faith is an important part of Jazel’s life. With a heart for ministry, youth, leadership, and service, she believes the gis she has been given can be used to encourage others and refle Christ in the way she lives and serves. Jazel understands that her life is made up of many roles. She is a beauty queen, a student, a worship leader, a youth leader, a community representative—and a young woman still discovering all that she is called to become. A Voice With Purpose For Jazel, singing is more than a talent. It is an expression of her faith. As a worship leader and youth leader, she has developed a passion for encouraging young people and helping them recognize the value of their own gis and purpose. Her voice gives her another way to conne with people—not simply through performance, but through encouragement and service. pg 4 Miss Del Rio

It is one of the qualities that makes Jazel’s journey as Miss Del Rio unique. Her platform extends beyond the traditional expeations of a pageant title and into an area that is deeply personal to her. A Visionary, a Platform and a Purpose at journey recently conneed Jazel with Israel Igbayilola, author of Named by the Father and Essence of Timing, and the visionary behind Named by the Father: e Experience — Del Rio Edition. Israel hand-picked Miss Del Rio Jazel Sanchez to minister and represent the youth at the Del Rio experience, recognizing her ability to conne with a younger generation and communicate a message of purpose and identity. Together, Jazel and Israel promoted the event throughout the community through radio interviews, podcasts, and conversations with people across Del Rio. On August 15, 2026, Named by the Father: e Experience — Del Rio Edition became a reality, bringing together a message centered on faith, identity, purpose, and the next generation. For Jazel, the experience was another opportunity to step beyond the traditional expeations of a beauty queen and embrace a role that feels authentic to who she is becoming.


Preparing for Her Future Jazel’s ambitions extend well beyond her year as Miss Del Rio. She plans to pursue a Bachelor’s degree in Praical Ministry at Christ For e Nations Institute in Dallas, while also pursuing Public Relations through Liberty University. e combination refles two important parts of her future: A desire to serve and a desire to communicate. She hopes to encourage young people to discover their strengths, understand their purpose, and recognize that their individual gis can be used to make a difference. The Heart of a Servant A servant understands when to lead and when to listen, when to eak and when to simply stand beside someone. For Miss Del Rio pageant direors Esme Earza and Claudia Lopez Cruz, it took two weeks of missionary work to learn more about Jazel than they had discovered through months of pageant preparation and appearances. Serving alongside her gave them the opportunity to see the young woman beneath the crown. ey witnessed her willingness to serve, her conneion with young people, and the sincerity she brings to the work placed before her. For Esme and Claudia, that discovery is part of what being a pageant direor is ultimately about: finding each Miss Del Rio’s niche and helping her stay focused on her mission. Every queen brings something different to the title. Some discover their strengths in advocacy. Others find them in leadership, education, community service, entrepreneurship, the arts, or conneing with people. For Jazel, Jazel her path is becoming increasingly clear. Her faith, her voice, her love for young people, and her willingness to serve are all important pieces of the woman she is becoming. e goal is not to change those qualities, but to cultivate them Because a crown should never require a young woman to become someone she isn't. It should give her the confidence to become more of who she was created to be. A Crown With Responsibility Jazel understands that being Miss Del Rio comes with great reonsibility. e title gives her a platform, but what she chooses to do with that platform is what gives it meaning. She hopes that when her reign is over, people will remember more than the crown. She wants them to remember the young people she encouraged, the people she served, the opportunities she embraced, and the example she tried to set. at, to Jazel, is the kind of legacy worth building. As Esme and Claudia put it:

“The crown may be hers, but she does not have to navigate the journey alone.”

at is a message IGNC wants Jazel to carry throughout her year of service. When she discovers something new about herself, they want to encourage her. When she needs direion, they want to guide her. And as she grows, they want to give her the ace and support to step confidently into whatever comes next. Because supporting a queen is not simply about helping her fulfill the reonsibilities of a title. It is about recognizing the person behind the title and giving her room to grow into her potential.

Two weeks of missionary work revealed something that can sometimes take years to understand:

“Purpose becomes more powerful when it is put into action.” Jazel is still discovering exaly where her journey will lead, but she is already walking with intention. She is ready to sing. Ready to serve. Ready to grow. Ready to represent her generation. Ready to lead. And ready to embrace the many roles that make her who she is. Perhaps that is the greater meaning behind being Anointed and Appointed. Not simply to be Seen, but to Serve. Not simply to Wear a crown, but to Give the title meaning. Not simply to have a Platform, but to use it Wisely.

That is Jazel Sanchez, Miss Del Rio 2026—

a queen with a crown, a worshipper with a voice, a servant with a heart, and a young woman continuing to discover her identity, her gis, and the purpose she believes God has placed before her.


76 MEET THE 2026 MISS DEL RIO Delegates YEARS

OF TRADITION OF PRIDE OF PURPOSE

A NEW GENERATION OF DEL RIO ROYALTY

In January, we gather for more than a pageant—we gather for a tradition. For 76 remarkable years, the Miss Del Rio Pageant has celebrated the poise, intelligence, talent, charaer, and heart of the young women who represent the very best of our community. On January 23, 2026, we honored the legacy of the women who have graced this stage before us—women who led with confidence, served with compassion, and carried the name Del Rio with pride near and far. Yet while we celebrated the past, we also looked toward the future, as a new generation of young women stepped forward with dreams, determination, and their own vision of what it meant to represent this extraordinary community. Meet the Miss Del Rio 2026 delegates. Each delegate brought something uniquely her own to the competition. ey represented different personalities, passions, talents, and dreams, but together they demonstrated what makes this tradition so ecial for more than seven decades. TIANA PEREZ ALYSSA AGUILERA VIANKA DIAZ A poised and confident A delegate who embraced the Known for her warmth and delegate whose communication experience and became part of ability to conne with her skills and presence made her a remarkable group of young fellow delegates, Vianka stand out throughout the women carrying forward the was honored as competition. Miss Del Rio tradition. Miss Congeniality 2026. NAOMI CEPEDA A young woman who brought grace and personality to the stage, earning the distinion of Miss Photogenic 2026. AUDREY BENAVIDES A delegate whose conneion with the community resonated strongly with supporters, earning her the coveted People’s Choice Award. REYNA SALAZAR Confident, irited, and poised, Reyna captured the judges' attention and was honored with Best-in-Fitness Wear.

ANACAMILA MARTINEZ Elegant and polished, she earned the distinion of Best-in-Evening Wear.

SIAN KAMILA MEZA A rising young leader whose journey led her to the title of Miss Del Rio Princess 2026.

HAILEY ALONSO A gracious delegate whose journey culminated in being crowned Miss Del Rio Duchess 2026.

JAZEL SANCHEZ With confidence, grace, and a commanding presence, Jazel earned the evening's highest honor and was crowned Miss Del Rio 2026.

ANNA SOPHIA DE LA PIEDRA A young woman who proudly represented her community while becoming part of the next chapter of Miss Del Rio history.

MIRIAM VERASTEGUI A proud delegate who brought her own personality, airations, and individuality to the Miss Del Rio stage.

JAZEL SANCHEZ was crowned MISS DEL RIO 2026, accepting the crown and the reonsibility of representing a tradition generations of Del Rio women have carried before her. SIAN KAMILA MEZA was crowned MISS DEL RIO PRINCESS 2026 HAILEY ALONSO received the title of MISS DEL RIO DUCHESS 2026. Together, they began a new chapter in the history of Miss Del Rio.

It is measured by what she does after the crown is placed. pg 6 Miss Del Rio

For 76 years, Del Rio has watched young women step onto this stage and discover their strength, their voice, and their purpose. Now the 2026 delegates have taken their place in that story.

CELEBRATING EXCELLENCE roughout the evening, the delegates were recognized for their individual qualities that made the shine. BEST IN-INTERVIEW Tiana Perez BEST IN-FITNESS WEAR Reyna Salazar BEST IN-EVENING WEAR AnaCamila Martinez PEOPLE’S CHOICE Audrey Benavides MISS PHOTOGENIC Naomi Cepeda MISS CONGENIALITY Vianka Diaz en came the moment everyone had been waiting for the announcement of the MISS DEL RIO 2026 COURT

MORE THAN A CROWN e Miss Del Rio title represents far more than a crown, sash, or evening on a stage. e young women who step into this tradition become ambassadors for their community. roughout their reign, the 2026 Miss Del Rio court will have opportunities to attend community celebrations, civic events, charitable aivities, cultural programs, and ecial occasions throughout the year. ey will represent Del Rio not simply as titleholders, but as young women with voices, dreams, and a reonsibility to make a positive difference.

TWELVE YOUNG WOME. ONE TREASRED TRADITION. A NEW GENERATION OF DEL RIO ROYALTY. A new chapter has begunand the future of Miss Del Rio is bright.


MISS DEL RIO


STEPPING BEYOND HER COMFORT ZONE:

Meet

MISS DEL RIO PRINCESS Sian Kama Meza

Representing the City of Del Rio with grace, compassion, and purpose, Miss Del Rio Princess Sian Kamila Meza has embraced every opportunity that comes with wearing the crown. Although pageantry was once outside of her comfort zone, she has discovered that the experience has helped her grow personally while allowing her to serve her community in meaningful ways. Among the many events she has participated in throughout her reign, Sian says three stand out as especially memorable: Night to Shine, e Wine and Cheese Event, and Domestic Violence Awareness activities. Each event offered a unique opportunity to connect with people from all walks of life while representing the values of kindness, service, and community pride. Sian encourages young ladies who may be considering the Miss Del Rio Pageant to take a leap of faith just as she did. "Don't be afraid, and enjoy every moment of the experience," she says. "is journey opens doors to new opportunities and prepares young women for many possibilities in life. It teaches confidence, leadership, and encourages you to step outside your comfort zone." Her own journey into pageantry began with the encouragement of her biggest supporter—her mother. "My mom always encouraged me to step out of my comfort zone and try new opportunities," Sian shares. "I had never participated in a pageant before, so hearing my name announced as Miss Del Rio Princess was a complete surprise. I was honestly shocked, but incredibly happy and grateful." As a member of the Miss Del Rio Court, Sian also recognizes the importance of preserving one of the community's most treasured traditions—the historic Abrazo Ceremony. "e reenactment of the Historic Abrazo represents the unity between our two countries," she explains. "For generations, we have influenced one another, supported each other, accepted each other, and maintained a lasting friendship. It's a beautiful reminder of the strong bond shared by our border communities." Outside of her pageant responsibilities, Sian is pursuing a degree in Psychology, driven by a lifelong interest in understanding the human mind and mental health. "Mental health has played a significant role in my life, both in positive and challenging ways," she says. "My goal is to continue my education and earn either an M.D. in Psychiatry or a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology. I want to better understand how the way we perceive the world influences the way we think, feel, and behave, so I can help others improve their mental well-being." Whether she's volunteering at community events, representing Del Rio with pride, or pursuing a future dedicated to mental health, Miss Del Rio Princess Sian Kamila Meza is proving that some of life's greatest opportunities begin with the courage to step beyond your comfort zone. rough service, education, and leadership, she continues to inspire others to believe in themselves and embrace every opportunity to grow. Miss Del Rio Princess Sian Kamila Meza proudly represents Del Rio at community events, inspiring others through kindness, leadership and service.

pg 8 Miss Del Rio


THE INSPRING JOURNEY OF Haey Daynn Alonso At first glance, the sparkle of a crown may capture attention, but for Hailey Dailynn Alonso, pageantry has never been about the crown alone. It has been about discovering confidence, embracing leadership, and using every opportunity to make a positive impact on the lives of others. e daughter of Javier Alonso Jr. and Erendida Lizeth Alonso, Hailey first entered the world of pageantry with a simple goal—to step outside of her comfort zone, meet new people, and challenge herself. What began as a fun experience quickly transformed into a passion that would shape her into a confident young leader. "Pageantry has taught me leadership, public speaking, and the importance of giving back to my community," Hailey says. "It has helped me grow into someone who believes in serving others." For Hailey, wearing a crown comes with a responsibility that extends far beyond appearances. She believes the greatest quality any queen can possess is kindness. roughout her reign, Hailey has embraced every opportunity to serve. From participating in hometown celebrations to volunteering with organizations such as Queens for a Cause, Samantha's Courage, and Teen Empowerment initiatives, she has dedicated her time to encouraging others—especially young girls and boys—to believe in themselves and pursue their dreams. "e moments that have impacted me the most are connecting with people," she says. "Being able to encourage someone, make them smile, or remind them that they are capable of achieving great things is what makes this journey so meaningful." One of the most remarkable chapters of Hailey's pageant story is one she shares with her sister. Together, they made history as the first sisters to simultaneously serve as titleholders in two of Del Rio's most cherished and historic pageant traditions. "It has been such a special experience," Hailey shares. "We attend events together, support one another every step of the way, and represent our titles with pride.

Having each other beside me has taught us the true meaning of sisterhood, teamwork, and leadership." e sisters hope their example inspires other families to encourage siblings to support one another's dreams rather than compete against each other. "We want younger girls to know they can be confident, kind, and supportive of one another. We hope to be positive role models and 'big sisters' they can look upto." Although her time as a titleholder will eventually come to an end, Hailey hopes the impact she has made will continue long aer the crown is passed on. "My greatest hope is that I leave behind a positive message for everyone I have had the privilege to serve," she says. "Whether or not I hold another title in the future, I want to continue growing as a leader and making a positive difference wherever I can." Looking ahead, Hailey has her sights set on another meaningful goal—becoming an educator. She dreams of continuing her education and one day becoming a teacher, believing that the classroom is where she can inspire future generations during some of the most important years of their lives. "I don't just want to be a good teacher," she says. "I want to be someone who encourages children to believe in themselves and helps them become the best they can be." For Hailey Dailynn Alonso, success is not measured by crowns or titles alone. It is measured by the lives she touches, the kindness she shares, and the example she sets through service and compassion. As she continues her journey, one thing is certain: her greatest legacy will not be the crown she wore, but the hearts she inspired along the way.

A true queen leads by example. She treats others with respect, stays true to herself, and uses her title to inspire and upli those around her."


Is the proud daughter of Gabriela Lozano & Alberto Diaz Some young women leave a lasting impression not by seeking the spotlight, but by shining a light on everyone around them. Vianka Andrea Diaz Lozano is one of those remarkable young ladies. Voted Miss Congeniality, she embodies kindness, compassion, and the genuine spirit of friendship that makes every room brighter.

For Vianka, the title of Miss Congeniality is far more than a sash it is a promise to lead with heart. To me, being named Miss Congeniality means not only wearing a title and a sash, but also respecting the responsibility that comes with representing genuine kindness and friendliness. It means upliing others by helping them feel welcomed and supported. is title represents the beauty within my character through the positive impact I have on others." roughout her reign, Vianka has embraced every opportunity to connect with her community. Among her favorite appearances was the SFDRCISD Elementary Science Fair, where she witnessed the excitement and pride on the faces of young students as they received recognition for their hard work. Sharing those joyful moments reminded her how important it is to encourage and celebrate the achievements of others.

Another unforgettable experience was attending Comic-Con, where she met people who shared many of her interests and formed meaningful friendships. e event allowed her to celebrate creativity, individuality, and the power of connecting with others through common passions. Looking ahead, Vianka has ambitious goals for her future. Aer graduating from high school, she plans to attend Angelo State University, where she hopes to enroll in the Media Technology program. With a passion for storytelling and creativity, she is eager to develope professional skills in media production, video creation, and audio content while pursuing a career that allows her to inspire and inform others.

Whether she's encouraging a young student, making new friends in the community, or preparing for her future career, Vianka leads with grace, humility, and authenticity. Her kindness is contagious, her smile is welcoming, and her heart for serving others truly defines what it means to be Miss Congeniality. With a bright future ahead, there is no doubt that will continue making a meaningfull impact wherever life takes her - proving that true beauty begins with a caring heart. pg 10 Miss Del Rio

Vianka Andrea Diaz Lozano


Photoaph More Than a

NAOMI CEPEDA Embraces Community, Connection and a Future in Medicine

For Naomi Cepeda, being named Miss Photogenic is about much more than a title or a beautiful photograph. It represents an opportunity to give back to the community she calls home and to represent Del Rio, the town that helped shape who she is.

“Being Miss Photogenic means to me that I’m able to be part of my community and I’m able to represent the town that I grew up in” - Naomi Cepeda

For her, one of the greatest rewards of the pageant experience has been the relationships she has built along the way. While competitions naturally bring young women together with a common goal, Naomi discovered that the experience offered something much more meaningful: friendship and genuine conneion

Her most memorable moments have been the opportunities to end time with the other participants and get to know the people behind the stage lights, dresses and competition. “I got to see who they were truly and was able to get close to them,” she explains. explain

As she looks toward the future, Naomi has her sights set firmly on education and a career in medicine. Her plans include attending college and pursuing a medical career—an ambitious goal that refles her desire to continue learning while eventually making a difference in the lives of others.

For Naomi Cepeda, the title may have started with a photograph, but its meaning goes far beyond the camera. It is about community, connection, confidence and the future she is determined to build.


Representing our city with pride, Miss Del Rio is committed to making a positive impact through service, leadership, and meaningful connections. From local events to community initiatives, every appearance is an opportunity to inspire, upli, and give back.

• • • •

MAKING A DIFFERENCE SUPPORTING LOCAL CAUSES Partnering with organizations that focus on education, health, and community well-being. YOUTH ENGAGEMENT Encouraging and mentoring young people to dream big and pursue their goals. COMMUNITY PRIDE Promoting local events, traditions, and the unique spirit of Del Rio. SERVICE IN ACTION Volunteering time and talent to make our community stronger together.

RECENT APPEARANCES • Fiesta de Amistad Parade • Arts & Crafts Market • 4th of July Celebration • Local School Visits • Charity Walks & Runs • Non-Profit Fundraisers • Veterans Appreciation Events • Holiday Parades & Events


Parade Royalty 2025 Fiesta de Amistad A Celebration of Friendship, Tradition & Royalty

ere are traditions that entertain a community—and then there are traditions that become part of its identity. In Del Rio, few celebrations capture that irit quite like the Fiesta de Amistad Parade.

In 2025, the streets once again came alive with color, music, community pride, and the unmistakable excitement of Fiesta de Amistad. Families lined the parade route, children waved from the sidewalks, music filled the air, and generations came together to celebrate a tradition built around one simple but powerful idea: friendship. For decades, Fiesta de Amistad has celebrated the ecial relationship shared by the neighboring communities of Del Rio, Texas, and Ciudad Acuña, Coahuila. Separated by the Rio Grande yet conneed through families, friendships, culture, commerce, and history, the two communities share a bond that reaches far beyond an international boundary. The annual parade brings that friendship to life.

Queens from Two Communities, One Celebration At its heart, Fiesta de Amistad has always been about the people and Del Rio and Ciudad Acuña share something unique. Families live on both sides of the border. Friendships cross the international bridge. Traditions, music, food, celebrations, and memories are shared between two cities and two countries. e parade transforms those conneions into a visible celebration. American and Mexican influences blend naturally throughout Fiesta, refleing the culture of a border community that understands that being neighbors means more than simply living beside one another.

Pageant Royalty has holds a ecial place within community celebrations because a crown carries both visibility and reonsibility. Every wave from a float connes one generation to another. e ambassadors riding through the 2025 Fiesta de Amistad Parade represented more than beauty and poise. ey represented service, leadership, confidence, friendship, and community pride. Somewhere in the crowd may be a former queen remembering when she traveled that same route. Nearby, a mother may be pointing toward the procession and telling her daughter about Fiesta traditions from years past. And perhaps another young girl is watching quietly, imagining the day when she might wear a crown herself. at is how traditions continue. When the Queens Arrive ere is something timeless about seeing the queens make their way down the parade route. Dressed in beautiful gowns, wearing their crowns and sashes, they wave to the crowds as cameras come out and young children look on with excitement. For many little girls standing along the route, seeing the queens is one of the moments they will remember most. Yet behind the arkle is something much more meaningful. ese young women represent their communities, organizations, schools, families, and traditions. eir appearance in the parade is not simply about wearing a crown. It is about becoming part of a celebration that has been passed from one generation to the next.

It means celebrating together. It means supporting one another. And, most importantly, it means continuing to choose friendship.

Memories That Become Tradition Eventually, the final float passes. e music grows distant, families fold their chairs, and the streets begin returning to normal. But Fiesta never completely disappears.

e 2025 Fiesta de Amistad Parade became another chapter in that continuing story. e floats will change. New queens will be crowned. New generations will take their places along the parade route. But the heart of Fiesta remains the same.

It lives in photographs of queens waving from floats. It lives in the stories parents tell their children. It lives in the friendships made while volunteering behind the scenes and in the memories of families who have attended the parade year aer year.

It is a celebration of tradition, community, culture, service, and friendship—and a reminder that some of the most meaningful traditions are the ones we continue to share with our neighbors. Viva Fiesta de Amistad. Viva la amistad.


LITTLE MR. AMISTAD 2026 ith a bright smile, a servant's heart, and W remarkable confidence beyond his years, Nathaniel Rome Diaz has proudly represented the

community as Lil Mr. Amistad 2026. roughout his reign, Nathaniel has embraced every opportunity to serve as a youth ambassador, inspiring others through leadership, kindness, and community involvement. Among his most cherished memories are riding in the colorful Fiesta de Amistad Parade, participating in the warm fellowship of the IGNC Eagle Pass and Piedras Negras Chapter Abrazo and Banquet, and celebrating local heritage during the 5 de Mayo Pageant. Each experience allowed him to connect with people on both sides of the border while honoring the rich traditions of friendship that define the Amistad spirit. Nathaniel's reign was also marked by a commitment to giving back. As a proud Community Angel, he helped spread joy to families in need by personally delivering anksgiving meals alongside fellow royalty and volunteers. During the Christmas season, he continued that mission of compassion by helping distribute gis to children, creating lasting memories and bringing smiles to countless faces.

A gied young speaker, Nathaniel confidently represented the organization at public speaking engagements, participated in public awareness videos, and served as a dedicated youth ambassador. His enthusiasm, poise, and genuine love for his community made him an outstanding representative throughout the year. Adding another cultural highlight to his reign, Nathaniel proudly marched in the Chinese New Year Parade, showcasing his talents as a drummer while celebrating the diversity that enriches the community. As he looks ahead to the annual Historical Abrazo this October, Nathaniel shares his excitement:

I'm excited because recreating the Historical Abrazo will make me feel as historic as the event itself.

Nathaniel's year as Lil Mr. Amistad has been defined by service, cultural appreciation, leadership, and a heart for others. His dedication reminds us that age is no barrier to making a meaningful impact, and he has represented the title with pride, grace, and an unwavering commitment to building friendship throughout the border region.

pg 14 Miss Del Rio

Little

Mr Amistad


A LEGACY OF

Love, Faith, and Amistad

Bella

ABIGAIL DOMINGUEZ Most importantly , I will be able to use my title to glprify the name of Jesus!”

EMBRACES HER HISTORIC REIGN AS

Little Miss Amistad For Bella Abigail Dominguez, being crowned Lil Miss Amistad is more than wearing a crown or carrying a title. It is an opportunity to celebrate family, friendship, faith and the unique bond that connes two communities across the Rio Grande. e daughter of Ariel Dominguez and Yaletza Dominguez, Bella has embraced her role with a heart full of gratitude and a deep appreciation for the meaning behind the Amistad tradition. MEMORIES THAT WILL LAST A LIFETIME Among Bella’s most treasured experiences was participating in the Amistad Parade alongside her aunt, Evelyn Dominguez, a former Miss Del Rio, and her partner, Lil Mr. Amistad Nathaniel. “It was such a beautiful and fun event with a deep meaning, It connects the sister towns that I proudly represent.” Another unforgettable moment came during Día de los Niños in Acuña, where Bella ent time with friends and helped celebrate children in the community. “We had so much fun with the donations many wonderful people made to make this day as special for them as for me, by receiving their friendship and love.”

FAITH AT THE HEART OF HER REIGN Bella had the opportunity to perform her favorite worship song through dance during the Miss Del Rio 2026 pageant. For her, the performance represented far more than being on a stage. “Most importantly, I will be able to use my title to glorify the name of Jesus!” Bella says. Her hope is that her time as Lil Miss Amistad will leave an impanot only in her community, but in the hearts and lives of those she encounters.

A FAMILY LEGACY Bella has had the ecial privelage of sharing this historic chapter with her aunt, Evelyn Dominguez, who previously wore the Miss Del Rio crown. When asked what has been most impaful about sharing the experience with her aunt, Bella’s answer comes from the heart. “My aunt was a queen, with love, grace, humbleness and beauty, made her impact. I pray one day I’m able to do the same.” Bella sees her crown something that carries reonisbility- a chance to serve, learn, and make community a difference in her community.

THE MEANING BEHIND THE ABRAZO “To be part of such a historic event such as the ”Abrazo” is a true blessing for me,” Bella Says. For a young titleholder, the experience is a reminder that history isn't only something found in books. It’s something we experience, celebrate and carry forward. Conneing with friends across the border and learning more about her family's roots is a privilege she hold sclose. “I know I will take this opportunity to heart”

Bella Abigail Dominguez is carrying the Amistad tradition in her heart— through family, friendship, service, and faith and through the historic conneion between two sister communities. A young heart with a purpose. A crown with meaning. A legacy in he making.


A CROWN AF uture A CELEBRATION IGNC Awards $6,000 in Scholarships to Miss Del Rio Participants

On September 1, 2026, the International Good Neighbor Council (IGNC) will hold a ecial scholarship presentation honoring nine remarkable young women from this year’s Miss Del Rio program. A total of $6,000 in scholarships and ecial awards will be presented to young women who have demonstrated dedication, leadership, and a commitment to pursuing their futures through education. MORE THAN A CROWN For IGNC, the Miss Del Rio tradition is about more than a crown. It is about opening doors, encouraging higher education, developing young leaders, and investing in the future of our community. IGNC has always emphasized scholarships as an important part of its mission surrounding the Miss Del Rio program. is year also marks the introduion of the Beauty Pageant Legacy Memorial Scholarship, giving families and community members an opportunity to honor a past or present Miss Del Rio with a scholarship in her name.

A crown creates a moment. A scholarship creates a future. A legacy lives on through the lives we help build.

INVESTING IN TOMORROW Families interested in honoring a beloved past or present queen are invited to participate. For information on how to contribute towards a scholarship or if you know a young lady eligible to participate in the 2027 Miss Del Rio pageant email :

pg 16 Miss Del Rio

Checks may be mailed to IGNC c/o Miss Del Rio Pageant P.O. Box 421862 Del Rio, TX 78842


Three Daughters.Three Crowns. Three Different Journeys.

Behind every crown is often a mother who helped prepare her daughter to wear it—not simply on her head, but in her heart.

BE A LIGHT For Maria Elena Sanchez, raising Jazel Sanchez, Miss Del Rio, has meant preparing her to understand that her title is ultimately a reonsibility. For her, leadership begins with humility, kindness, compassion, and integrity. She believes Jazel and her Court have a unique opportunity to inire the next generation, encourage young people to believe in themselves, and demonstrate that true beauty is found in charaer, faith, and a heart willing to serve. at lesson began long before the crown. Maria Elena and her family taught Jazel that confidence should never depend upon the opinions of others. She taught her that her confidence comes from knowing who she is in Christ, not from the opinions of others. “at giving her best, whether praicing, rehearsing, or competing—leads to excellence, not regret And that success is not measured by title, but by faithfulness, perseverance, and the impa we have on others. Maria Elena's greatest wish for Jazel’s legacy is simple yet profound: that Jazel be remembered as someone who loved God, loved people, and lived with purpose.

“I believe my daughter’s role as

Miss Del Rio is to be a light in out community.

Yet the love, guidance, and values of their mothers created the foundation that prepared them to lead, serve, and inspire our community.

GUARD HER HEART For Ery Alonso, mother of Hailey Alonso, Miss Del Rio Duchess, the foundation of confidence has always been family.

CONFIDENCE IS BEAUTY For Dina Sanchez, mother of Sian Kamila Meza, Miss Del Rio Princess, the crown is an opportunity to grow, to serve, and to discover the strength that has always been within.

Hailey's role has given her the opportunity to conne with her community while sharing a message of faith and hope. Ery says Hailey has embraced the values instilled at home—ree, solidarity, empathy, and inclusion. She has also learned to recognize the needs of those around her, particularly children and young people, and to understand that even small as of service can influence future generations.

Dina has reminded her that her role is not simply to stand beside the Queen, but to support her Court, serve her community, and proudly represent Del Rio as an ambassador and that true confidence comes from within.

But before Hailey could become an ambassador for her community, her family made sure she understood her value. From an early age, she was reminded that she was loved, that her opinion mattered, and that her feelings were important and that she didn't have to be perfe to be valuable. at lesson may be one of the greatest gis a parent can give a child. Ery beautifully described the reonsibility of parenthood as proteing her daughter's heart as carefully as her most precious treasure.

“Above all else, guard your heart, for

”

everything you do flows from it.

”

— Proverbs 4:23

THE CROWN IS NOT THE DESTINATION

A crown is an opportunity- to eak when someone needs encouragement, to stand beside someone who feels alone, to inire the next generation, to serve a community, to lead with kindness, and to leave something meaningful behind.

“True leadership begins when we stop asking what we can receive and start asking what we can give.”

“Believe in yourself. Stand up for what you believe in. And when something matters to you, pursue it with your whole heart.” rough appearances, volunteer opportunities, and community events, Sian has witnessed the power of people coming together for something greater than themselves. She has watched them freely give their time, energy, and heart to help others. It has shown her that her role is far more than wearing a crown and sash, it is about showing up, serving others, and using your position to make a difference. Dina has always encouraged Sian to see herself through her mother’s eyes—to recognize the strength, beauty, and potential Dina has always seen in her, and to know that no matter where life takes her, her mother will always be by her side. Today, Dina proudly watches as Sian grows into the confident, strong young woman she always knew she could be. “I tell her all of the time that she is my hero.” ose words carry a meaning that reaches far beyond pageantry. Dina remembers one of the most difficult chapters of their lives, when she faced the fear of nearly losing her daughter. Yet through that dark season, Sian found the courage and determination to keep moving forward. Her strength through adversity helped shape the young woman she is today and inired her to pursue the Miss Del Rio crown with a renewed sense of purpose. For Dina, one of the most meaningful parts of Sian’s story is the reminder that a difficult chapter does not have to define the future. Her journey is proof that you can rise again, rediscover your strength, and turn even the hardest experiences into a source of hope for others. For Sian, confidence is more than how she carries herself beneath a crown. It is the courage to know her worth, the strength to keep moving forward, and the heart to use her journey to li others along the way And that is a beauty no crown could ever create.

THE MOST BEAUTIFUL CROWNIS NOT THE ONE THAT SINES THE BRIGHTEST IT IS THE ONE WORN BY A YOUNG WOMAN WHOSE HEART SHINES BRIGHTER THAN THE CROWN ITSELF


For generations, the words

Miss Texas USA represented more than a crown. ey symbolized opportunity, ambition, lifelong friendships, and a stage where thousands of young women discovered confidence, purpose, and their own voices. Today, many within the pageant community are asking a heartfelt question: Where has Texas gone? e answer is both simple and complex. Contrary to some rumors, the Miss Texas USA pageant has not disappeared. Texas continues to crown an official Miss Texas USA, who advances to compete for the Miss USA title. e tradition lives on Yet, for many contestants, directors, coaches, judges, volunteers, and supporters, something undeniably feels different. e Miss USA Organization has experienced one of the most transformative periods in its history. Leadership changes, public scrutiny, legal disputes over branding, and a reorganization of the franchise system have reshaped the landscape. ese changes have ushered in a new chapter while closing one that many Texans had known for decades

Texas has long been considered one of the premier states in American pageantry. It has produced exceptional titleholders, influential mentors, accomplished directors, and women who have gone on to become leaders in business, education, entertainment, philanthropy, and public service. e state earned a reputation for excellence that reached far beyond the competition stage. For those who have spent years—or even decades—within the Texas pageant community, today's transition can feel bittersweet. Familiar faces have stepped aside. Long-standing traditions have evolved. Relationships built over generations have shied as new leadership and new visions emerge.

But change has always been part of pageantry. Every generation leaves its mark before passing the torch to the next. Every titleholder eventually crowns her successor. Every chapter, no matter how cherished, eventually becomes part of history. This is not the end of Miss Texas USA. It is the closing of one era and the beginning of another.

Perhaps the better question is no longer,

“Where has Texas gone?’ e heart of pageantry lives in every young woman who discovers she is capable of more than she ever

imaganed.

Perhaps it is. “Where will Texas go next?” Only time will tell. And for a state with such a rich pageant legacy, that next chapter may become one of its most meaningul yet.

What the future holds remains to be seen. New leaders now have the opportunity—and the responsibility—to honor the legacy that came before while building a program that speaks to today's contestants and tomorrow's dreams. e heart of pageantry has never rested solely in a crown, a sash, or even an organization. It lives in the young woman who finds confidence for the first time during rehearsal. It lives in the lifelong friendships formed backstage. It lives in the volunteer who gives countless hours without seeking recognition. It lives in every contestant who discovers that she is capable of more than she ever imagined. Texas has not lost that spirit. If anything, it is being challenged to redefine it. History reminds us that every great institution experiences seasons of change. Some transitions are celebrated, while others are met with uncertainty. Yet it is oen during these moments that resilience, innovation, and leadership emerge. As the next chapter unfolds, one thing remains certain: the women of Texas will continue to inspire, compete, serve their communities, and pursue excellence. e stage may look different. e leadership may have changed. But the dreams that begin with a simple application and the hope of wearing a crown remain as alive as ever.


Crown

MORE THAN A

A LEGACY OF COURAGE, CONFIDENCE AND PAGEANTRY

Featuring Mother and Daughter RUDI & ALYSSA GUTIERREZ

For some, pageantry begins with a dream of wearing a crown. For others, it begins simply because a friend says, “You should try it.” For this former Miss Del Rio contestant, it began with curiosity, friendship and absolutely no expectation of placing and ended up becoming a cherished chapter in her life and a legacy she would one day pass on to her daughter Alyssa Gutierrez. e outgoing Miss Del Rio at the time was Tina Ricks, and the competition brought together approximately 25 young women, all vying for the title. Stephanie Edminson ultimately captured the crown, while Rudi was named 1st Runner-Up and Amy Whitehead was 2nd Runner-Up. Stephanie also received the title of Miss Congeniality, while Olga Gutierrez earned Best Costume for her beautifully presented charro outfit. e pageant's theme was “Old Mexico,” and contestants embraced the spirit of the evening by appearing in traditional Mexican costumes. It was a celebration of culture, tradition and pageantry—and one that remains vivid in her memory.

A LEGACY CONTINUES

What began almost casually would become much more meaningful years later when her daughter, Alyssa Gutierrez, entered the world of pageantry herself. Alyssa competed as the youngest contestant and was crowned as Miss Del Rio Teen and went on to represent her community at the Miss Texas Teen USA pageant. Alyssa was always the most eloquent speaker.

“I’d like to think that part of my knowledge of competing was passed down to my daughter and she took the crown. I was so proud of her. I still am! - RUDI GUTIERREZ

At the helm was legendary pageant director Peggy Acosta, remembered as a director who was both strict and kind.

“There were about 25 of us competing, so she really had to keep us in line and where to stand,” -Rudi Gutierrez

Pageantry in those days also demanded something that has become less common in today's competitions: every contestant had to perform a talent. Rudi’s talent was anything but ordinary. She performed a humorous skit portraying a French ballet teacher attempting to teach football players how ballet could improve their game. e performance brought laughter and showcased a playful side of her personality. But perhaps the most memorable moment of the evening came when she wasn't even prepared for her name to be called.

“I was just trying out because all my friends were doing it. I never thought I would place.”

As the names began to be announced, she had already removed her shoes because her feet were hurting. Standing beside her was Brenda Luce, who gave her a playful jab aer hearing the announcement before she did. They had called her name for 1st Runner-Up. e surprise on her face became part of the memory she would carry with her. “It was a very lovely experience,” she remembers.

“

e one thing I can credit pageants is the ability to look at any obstacle and know I have the ability to overcome it.

”

en, with the humor and honesty that perfectly captures the spirit of a seasoned pageant woman, she adds:

“Because wearing a bathing suit in heels, on stage, in front of a crowd and looking like you're at ease, then you can handle anything!”

That’s courage.

And perhaps that is the real legacy of her pageant experience—not simply the placement, the applause or the memories of a beautiful “Old Mexico” evening, but the courage to walk onto life's stages with confidence.

A CROWN EVENTUALLY COMES OFF. THE CONFIDENCE, RESILIENCE, AND COURAGE YOU GAIN ALONG THE WAY CAN STAY WITH YOU FOREVER.


Piured: Steve Nunez, Alcira Guerra, Ernestina “Tina” Martinez, Sandra Lara, Antionetta Treviño

The Good Neighbor

THE PEOPLE BEHIND THE SCENES WHO KEEP THE SPIRIT OF COMMUNITY ALIVE Every great community organization has a story—but behind every successful event, parade, scholarship, festival, and celebration are the people who quietly make it happen. ey are the volunteers who arrive early, stay late, make phone calls, organize committees, solve problems, lend a helping hand, and give their time simply because they believe in their community. Within the International Good Neighbor Council (IGNC) of Del Rio are countless individuals who embody that irit of service. ey may not always stand in the otlight, but their dedication is woven into the fabric of the organization and the traditions it continues to preserve. ey are the good neighbors. For Steve Nuñez, who has been part of IGNC for approximately 10 years, the organization represents an opportunity to bring people together. His favorite event is the Arts & Cras Festival, where families can gather, share their talents, enjoy music, discover different foods, and create memories together. “I joined because I enjoy doing community events where people can come together to celebrate and share their art, their favorite food, and let kids come and play with others,” Steve explains. “You can try different kinds of food all in one place and enjoy music at the same time.” at simple philosophy captures what community service is about: creating aces where people conne. Alcira Guerra has been an IGNC member for four years. She joined because she wanted to become involved in the Fiesta de Amistad festivities and has found the experience deeply rewarding. Today, she serves as a chair for the Academic Scholarship Committee, helping support one of the most meaningful ways IGNC invests in the future—encouraging local students to pursue their educational dreams. pg 22 Miss Del Rio

For Ernestina “Tina” Martinez, service to IGNC has become part of her personal history. She joined in 2015 and says the Fiesta de Amistad remains her favorite event. For the past five years, Tina has served as parade chairperson, helping coordinate one of the community's most beloved traditions. Her conneion to Fiesta de Amistad runs even deeper. She and her late husband, M/Sgt. Jose Martinez, were honored as Mr. and Mrs. Amistad for 2013–2014. Tina has also served as secretary of IGNC, giving her time and leadership to an organization that has become an important part of her life. For Sandra Lucina Lara, choosing one favorite IGNC event is nearly impossible. She sees the organization as something much larger than a colleion of events. “I believe every IGNC event has its own purpose,” Sandra explains. She compares IGNC to a body, where every part and every organ has a role and works together to make the whole funion.

at analogy beautifully refles the irit of the organization. Each volunteer, committee, parade, fundraiser, celebration, scholarship, and cultural event becomes another part of the whole—working together to keep Del Rio and Val Verde County vibrant, aive, and conneed. Sandra believes IGNC also has an important reonsibility to the next generation: iniring young people to become involved, serve their community, and carry the Good Neighbor irit forward. She describes IGNC as being like DNA—something that runs through the community like a continuous river, carrying history, unity, commitment, and vision from one generation to the next. Her refleion is rooted in faith as well, drawing iniration from Psalm 23 and its imagery of green pastures and still waters. To Sandra, IGNC is part of that continuous flow—nourishing the community, helping it flourish, and creating pathways for future generations to grow and thrive.


The Heart Behind the Tradition SERVICE • CULTURE • FRIENDSHIP • COMMUNITY

Piured: Danny Rincones, Rebekah “Becky” Chavez, Mariela Lane, Nydia Fernandez-Contreras Nydia Fernandez-Contreras, a two-year member joined IGNC because she wanted to become more involved in her community and make a difference. For Nydia, however, Fiesta de Amistad is more than an annual celebration. It is a memory that reaches back to childhood. Her favorite event is the Fiesta de Amistad celebration, a tradition she says has been part of her life for as long as she can remember. Some of her most cherished memories come from the days of the international parade, when the sister cities of Ciudad Acuña, Coahuila, Mexico, and Del Rio, Texas, USA, would come together to celebrate. Beautiful floats, marching bands, families, and friends filled the streets as both communities shared in the irit of friendship and celebration. ose childhood memories have remained with Nydia through the years. e parade takes her back to a time when she enjoyed the festivities with family and friends. But perhaps most meaningful is what happened next: she began creating those same memories with her own family. What was once a childhood tradition became a family tradition., one of the most powerful ways a community organization leaves its mark. continue Danny Rincones, a one-year member, was drawn to IGNC through the opportunity to experience different cultures while giving back to the community. His favorite event is Abrazo, a celebration that refles the importance of cultural understanding, friendship, and cross-border conneions. Antionette Trevino, also a one-year member, points to the Fiesta de Amistad Parade as her favorite event. Her reason for joining is simple but important: she wanted to help keep the momentum going for IGNC events and contribute to the traditions that bring people together. For Rebekah “Becky” Chavez, who has been an IGNC member for four years, community involvement is about being part of some thing that makes a difference. Her work on the scholarship committee allows her to serve students, while her involvement with Fiesta de Amistad provides an other opportunity to give back.

They joined for different reasons. They serve in different ways. But together, they demonstrate what it means to be a good neighbor.

ere is a common thread running through all of their stories: service. ey joined for different reasons. ey have different favorite events. ey serve on different committees and bring different experiences and talents to the organization.But together, they demonstrate what it truly means to be a good neighbor. Lane who has been a member for two years and proudly Mariela Lane, serves as Vice President, says she joined because she wanted to be part of a wonderful community and help it continue to grow and thrive. Her favorite celebration is the Fiesta de Amistad in Oober, particularly the parade and the gathering of families and friends at the park. e live music and family-friendly aivities create memories that she looks forward to each year. For Mariela, the joy comes from working alongside others to make a positive impa and strengthen the conneions within the community. And perhaps that is the greatest story IGNC has to tell. Not simply the story of festivals or parades. Not simply the story of traditions that have been celebrated year aer year. It is the story of people. People who believe that communities are stronger when neighbors come together. People who understand that traditions survive because someone is willing to volunteer. People who recognize that scholarships can change a student's future, that cultural celebrations can build bridges, and that a parade can be much more than a procession—it can be a celebration of friendship, history, and belonging. e work behind the scenes may not always be seen. But it matters. Every committee meeting, every phone call, every decorated float, every scholarship application reviewed, every event prepared, and every volunteer hour represents someone saying, “I care enough tohelp.” That is the heart of the International Good Neighbor Council. And these are the people who help keep that heart beating.

e work behind the scenes may not always be seen, but it matters. Every call, meeting, scholarship, parade, and volunteer hour helps keep the irit of friendship and community moving forward.

They are the good neighbors.


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MISS DEL RIO AND CD. ACUÑA'S SEÑORITA AMISTAD A Tradition of Elegance, Friendship, and International Goodwill

Each year, one of the most anticipated highlights of Fiesta de la Amistad is the presentation and coronation of Señorita Amistad and Miss Del Rio. ese remarkable young women embody the spirit of friendship, culture, and community that has defined this beloved international celebration for generations. e coronation is more than a pageant—it is a treasured tradition filled with elegance, pride, and meaningful symbolism. From the moment the young women take the stage to the crowning of the new titleholders, the evening showcases the grace, poise, and leadership of Del Rio's outstanding ambassadors. roughout Fiesta de la Amistad, Señorita Amistad and Miss Del Rio proudly represent our community at numerous events, greeting visitors, celebrating local traditions, and strengthening the bond between our neighboring communities. eir presence reminds us that the true meaning of Fiesta extends far beyond celebration—it is a tribute to friendship, respect, and the enduring relationship shared across our border. One of the most cherished aspects of the celebration is the warm hospitality extended by our sister city, Ciudad Acuña. Year aer year, our friends across the Rio Grande welcome guests with extraordinary kindness, generosity, and genuine enthusiasm. eir gracious spirit reflects the very heart of Fiesta de la Amistad and serves as a beautiful reminder that friendship knows no borders.

e relationship between Del Rio and Ciudad Acuña has long been built on mutual respect, cultural appreciation, and shared traditions. During Fiesta, those values come alive as families, civic leaders, businesses, and volunteers join together to celebrate the unique bond that unites our two communities. For the young women selected as Señorita Amistad and Miss Del Rio, the experience is life-changing. ey become ambassadors of goodwill, representing not only beauty and elegance but also service, leadership, and community pride. rough appearances, public engagements, and cultural events, they inspire younger generations while promoting the values that have made Fiesta de la Amistad a treasured tradition. As each new court is crowned, another chapter is added to a legacy that continues to bring people together. e sparkling crowns, elegant gowns, and memorable ceremonies are certainly breathtaking, but it is the friendships formed, the traditions honored, and the spirit of hospitality shared between our sister cities that leave the greatest impression. Fiesta de la Amistad is, and always has been, a celebration of friendship. rough Señorita Amistad and Miss Del Rio, that friendship shines brightly, reminding us that some of our strongest traditions are built not simply on history, but on the kindness, unity, and welcoming hearts of two communities forever connected.


HISTORY IS HAPPENING NOW When a Crown Became a Civic Legacy

The Story Behind Del Rio’s Official City Ambassador

From Pageant Stage to Ambassador

Pictured: Lynda Adriance Miss Del Rio 1997-1998 The year the Miss Del Rio became recognized as the official ambassador of the city Every photograph saved, every newaper article uncovered, every story shared, and every official document rediscovered changes what future generations will know about their community. Historians memorize names and dates. ey question, investigate, compare sources, interview those who lived through important moments, and most importantly, rescue history from being forgotten. at is exaly what is happening with the story of Miss Del Rio.

A pageant can produce a winner. But an ambassador represents a community. e title of Miss Del Rio became associated with representing the city at community funions, cultural celebrations, civic events and occasions where Del Rio needed a representative who could embody its irit of friendship and goodwill. e Miss Del Rio story is now not about who wore the crown. It is about why the crown mattered. e IGNC’s mission and traditions have long centered on friendship, international goodwill, cultural exchange and bringing people together. e Miss Del Rio title fits naturally within that larger story—not as an isolated pageant, but as part of a community tradition built around representation and good neighboring.

Three Presidential Summits. Decades of Goodwill. One Crown.

For decades, the crown has represented more than beauty, tradition or a pageant title. e history of Miss Del Rio is intertwined with the identity of Del Rio, the International Good Neighbor Council, Fiesta de la Amistad and the city’s long tradition of building bridges between cultures and communities. Now, continuing research is helping identify a pivotal moment when that crown took on an official civic meaning.

e history of the International Good Neighbor Council contains extraordinary chapters, including presidential summits and international moments that placed Del Rio and its traditions on a much larger stage. But history is not made only by presidents, dignitaries and official ceremonies. Sometimes history is made by the people who quietly carry a tradition forward. Sometimes it is a queen walking into an event wearing a sash. Sometimes it is a young woman standing beside civic leaders. Sometimes it is a photograph tucked away in someone’s attic. And sometimes, it is a City Council vote on an ordinary Tuesday evening that permanently changes how a community understands a title it has known for generations.

The Legacy That Began Generations Ago

Why This Matters Today

e history traces Miss Del Rio to the 1930s, with Mary Ann Grahm (Cauthorn), crowned in 1932, identified as the earliest Miss Del Rio found in the historical record. A recent search has uncovered additional evidence pointing to two young women being crowned Miss Del Rio during the 1940s, a discovery that adds another chapter to the story. e International Good Neighbor Council historian, is committed to reporting new findings as credible evidence becomes available. Which means this historical record is not necessarily finished. It is being rebuilt. September 23, 1997- The Crown Entered City History One of the most significant discoveries leads to September 23, 1997, during the administration of Mayor Robert “Bob” Chavira. at evening, IGNC President Mario Garcia appeared before the Del Rio City Council and mayor to present his case for formally recognizing the IGNC Miss Del Rio. Aer approximately 45 minutes of discussion and debate, the vote came in. Six members of the Del Rio City Council voted in favor. Councilwoman Gloria Sotelo was absent. e council adopted a resolution naming the IGNC Miss Del Rio as the official queen and ambassador for the City of Del Rio. A moment that deserves to be remembered, because the crown was no longer simply a crown. It became a reonsibility. It had became representation. It became an official conneion between a young woman, her community and the city she was being called upon to represent. pg 26 Miss Del Rio

One might think of history as something that happened long ago. e history of Miss Del Rio tells us otherwise. e crown worn by today’s Miss Del Rio is conneed to women who carried that title generations before her. e traditions surrounding it have survived changing times, changing communities and changing generations. at makes every current Miss Del Rio part of something much larger than her own reign. She is not starting the story. She is continuing it. And today’s current events are tomorrow’s lessons. As research continues, new names, dates, photographs and newaper accounts may confirm what we remember—or challenge it. at is history at work. One thing for certain, the historian will follow the evidence, acknowledge what is known and uncertain, and preserve each discovery for future generations.

A CROWN. A CITY. A LEGACY.

More than 90 years aer the earliest documented Miss Del Rio history, the significance of the title continues. e crown has changed. e women have changed. e city has changed. But the reonsibility of representation remains. Legacies do not survive simply because someone remembers them. ey survive because someone takes the time to document them. is is why we research. is is why we preserve newapers. is is why we interview the people who remember. is is why we save photographs. And this is why the story of Miss Del Rio—past, present and still being discovered—deserves to be preserved.

Because history is not only what happened then. History is happening now.


Some moments in history are remembered not only because of what happened, but because of what they represented. e abrazo—the embrace—has long stood as a powerful symbol of friendship, unity, and goodwill between two communities divided only by a river but connected by shared traditions, family, and heritage. Today, that meaningful spirit of friendship was brought back to life through a special reenactment honoring the bond between Del Rio, Texas, and Ciudad Acuña, Coahuila. In a beautiful celebration of diplomacy, culture, and community, the queens of both cities gathered to represent a legacy that reaches far beyond borders.

As the queens exchanged an abrazo, history was relived. e moment reflected the friendship between two countries, the United States and Mexico, and honored the generations who have believed in cooperation, respect, and unity. e embrace represented more than a ceremonial gesture; it symbolized the friendships formed, the traditions shared, and the hope for continued harmony between neighboring communities.

For the young women wearing the crowns, this experience became more than an appearance—it became a lesson in the importance of preserving history and understanding the responsibility that comes with representing a community. ey witnessed firsthand how leadership can be expressed through kindness, cultural appreciation, and the e ladies of Miss Del Rio and their court stood simple act of reaching out with an open heart proudly alongside their counterparts from Ciudad Acuña, embodying the grace, leadership, and cultural pride that queens have represented throughout generations. eir presence served as a reminder that royalty is not only about a crown—it is about service, connection, and The queens of Del Rio and Ciudad Acuña building bridges between people. remind us that while borders may define

countries, friendship defines humanity.

Through their smiles, their service, and their abrazo, they carried forward a tradition built on respect and unity.

A queen’s true beauty is not measured by the crown she wears, but by the lives she touches and bridges she helps build. On this special day, history is not just remembered—it is celebrated, relived, embraced, and carried into the future by a new generation of queens.


The Impact of the Crown

Why the Miss Del Rio Pageant is an Investment in Your Daughter's Future. A Crown Represents Responsibility

A crown is beautiful, but its true value is found in what it symbolizes. It represents integrity, service, compassion, leadership, and dedication. A titleholder becomes an ambassador for Del Rio, representing our community with pride at civic events, charitable activities, educational programs, and cultural celebrations. The most memorable queens are not remembered for the gown they wore— they are remembered for the lives they touched.

Scholarships That Open Doors

Education changes lives, and scholarships help make dreams possible. e Miss Del Rio Pageant is committed to encouraging young women to pursue higher education while recognizing their hard work, character, and community involvement. Scholarship pageants across the country have helped thousands of women continue their education while reducing financial burdens and building professional opportunities. Every scholarship earned is more than financial assistance—it is an investment in a young woman's future.

Building Confidence That Lasts a Lifetime

e confidence gained through pageantry reaches far beyond the stage. Contestants learn to: • Speak confidently before audiences. • Communicate professionally during interviews. • Set personal goals and achieve them. • Develop poise under pressure. • Practice teamwork and leadership. • Serve their community with purpose. ese are life skills that benefit young women in college, careers, job interviews, public speaking, and leadership positions for years to come. Research and scholarship-focused pageant organizations consistently emphasize personal development, communication, and leadership as lasting outcomes of participation.

An Invitation to the Families of Del Rio

If you have a daughter between the ages of 16 and 20, consider giving her the opportunity to experience something that could positively influence the rest of her life. Yes, she may win a beautiful crown. She may earn scholarship opportunities. She may gain recognition. But the greatest prize she will receive cannot be placed on her head. It will be carried in her heart.

When many people hear the word pageant, they picture sparkling crowns, elegant gowns, and dazzling stage lights. While those traditions remain part of the experience, today's Miss Del Rio Pageant represents something far greater—it is a leadership program, a scholarship opportunity, and a launching pad for young women who aspire to make a difference in their communities

More Than Competition—A Sisterhood

One of the greatest gis of pageantry is the friendships that are formed. Contestants encourage one another, celebrate each other's accomplishments, and create bonds that oen last a lifetime. ey meet mentors, business leaders, educators, volunteers, and community advocates who inspire them to dream bigger and believe in themselves.

The Miss Del Rio experience reminds every contestant that another young woman's success never diminishes her own.

For Parents: A Safe Place to Grow

Parents oen wonder if pageants are right for their daughters. e Miss Del Rio Pageant strives to create an environment where young women are encouraged to grow through mentorship, community service, education, and personal development—not simply appearance. • Every rehearsal becomes an opportunity to build confidence. • Every appearance teaches professionalism. • Every interview develops communication. • Every volunteer event strengthens compassion. Whether your daughter ultimately wears the crown or not, she walks away stronger than when she began.

Leadership Begins Here

Many successful women credit pageants with helping them develop skills that shaped their futures. ey learned how to speak with confidence, advocate for meaningful causes, network with professionals, and become visible leaders within their communities. ese opportunities oen extend far beyond pageant day. e Miss Del Rio Pageant believes every young woman has something unique to offer. She may become a teacher. A nurse. A business owner. An attorney. A community advocate. A public servant. Or perhaps simply a confident woman who believes in herself because someone first believed in her.

Confidence Character Leadership

Because long aer the crown is placed on a queen's head,

the leons she learns coinue to shape the woman she becomes.

e Miss Del Rio Pageant is more than a competition. It is where confidence is discovered, leaders are developed, scholarships create opportunities, and young women learn that their greatest beauty is found in their character, their compassion, and their courage to serve others.


Where Good Neighbors Meet the Open Road

A highway can connect two places. But it is people who give that connection meaning. In Del Rio on September 8–10, 2026 that connection spanned from the borders of Canada down to the border of Mexico. as regional leaders gathered for the 2026 Ports-to-Plains Alliance Annual Conference. Discussions focused on transportation, international trade, economic development and tourism—issues that will help shape the future of communities on both sides of the border. In the bi-national setting of Del Rio, Texas, and Ciudad Acuña, Coahuila, the border was more than a backdrop. It was at the heart of the conversation—a place where commerce, culture and community come together every day. Among those attending was International Good Neighbor Council President Andrew Scarbo, joined by members of the Del Rio Chapter.

at is where the vision of Ports-to-Plains and the mission of the International Good Neighbor Council intersect because the roads do more than carry goods, they bring people to places worth experiencing—places known for festivals, food, history, music, shopping, outdoor recreation and, most importantly, the people who give a community its character. ose visitors leave with memories and stories they can share with others.

For IGNC, the conference reflected more than regional growth. It echoed the organization’s founding purpose: building understanding and strengthening relationships across borders. Because beyond the highways, trade routes and economic plans, the true strength of a border region is found in its people—neighbors who cross borders, cultures that connect, friendships that grow and communities that discover what they can accomplish together A Mission That Begins With Friendship Long before border cooperation became a topic at conferences and economic development meetings, it began with a simple idea: friendship. at spirit dates back to 1954, when Mexican and American businessmen founded the International Good Neighbor Council to strengthen relations throughout the Western Hemisphere. Its mission reached beyond business, encouraging social, cultural, youth and educational exchanges between communities and nations. at mission feels especially at home in Del Rio. Here, the Rio Grande is more than a line on a map. It is part of the region’s story—a river that has connected families, traditions and communities for generations. It is an area where commerce, celebrations and everyday friendships continue to strengthen that relationship. Events such as Fiesta de la Amistad offer a public expression of the shared culture and enduring friendship that make the region unique. Now, a new conversation is creating an opportunity to share that story with an even wider audience . e Ports-to-Plains The Route Highways more than move people and products, they connect communities, create opportunities and introduce travelers to places they might otherwise miss. at is the vision behind the Ports-to-Plains Corridor, a developing north-south transportation network connecting Mexico, Texas and the Great Plains, with the route extending toward Canada. Benefiting our area, the Del Rio gateway U.S. 277. is part of the Texas I-27 System in the 963-mile corridor connecting West and South Texas with Mexico through Laredo, Eagle Pass and Del Rio. While discussions focus on trade, agriculture, energy and economic development, tourism is another important opportunity. e Ports-to-Plains Alliance recognizes tourism as a potential benefit of improved connectivity and expanded economic activity.

Pictures: State Representative Eddie Morales, Helen Morales, Andrew Scarbo, and David Scarbo Del Rio’s Story Some destinations are remembered not only for what they offer, but for how they make people feel. Del Rio has both. Its international identity, historic character, access to the Rio Grande and Lake Amistad, outdoor recreation, cultural traditions, restaurants, shopping, arts and community celebrations create a story worth discovering. rough the Del Rio Chamber of Commerce Convention & Visitors Bureau visitor information points to many of those attractions, from outdoor adventures and cultural events to dining, shopping, lodging and the region’s rich history. e opportunity now is to connect those experiences and encourage more travelers to explore the community, and discover that Del Rio is simply not a place to pass through, but a place worth stopping for—a place where the journey becomes part of the experience? Travelers might extend a business trip for a festival, explore the river with family or discover a border community known for its history, culture and welcoming people. at kind of tourism goes beyond attractions. It creates connections, and in Del Rio, international friendship is something visitors experience in the welcome they receive, the stories they hear and the memories they take home IGNC Has a Role in That Story e participation of Andrew Scarbo and fellow IGNC members at the Ports-to-Plains gathering carried a deeper meaning. While Ports-to-Plains focuses on connecting the communities, along the route in aspect to trade and commerce, IGNC’s mission remains the same, to encourage the importance of strengthening relationships that offer an opportunity to bring more people to the region.

ese efforts keep communities connected and turn visits into experience which turn into lasting memories. For IGNC, it means continuing to promote the qualities that have defined the organization for generations: cultural exchange, cooperation, youth involvement, friendship, education, and relationships across the border. For Del Rio, it means recognizing that tourism should not be treated as an aerthought to economic development. It is part of it. Building a Future e Ports-to-Plains conversation is ultimately about the future—how communities connect, businesses grow, people move and regions create new opportunities. For Del Rio, it also presents a chance to share what makes the city unique. e city does not have to become something else to attract visitors. It needs to tell its story in a way that encourages travelers to discover what is already here. Ports-to-Plains can improve access, tourism can increase visibility, and IGNC can help strengthen the relationships that connect communities across the border. Together, they highlight an important truth: a region’s value is measured not only by its roads, trade and infrastructure, but also by its friendships, shared traditions, cultural understanding and the welcome extended from one neighbor to another. As Andrew Scarbo and IGNC members join regional leaders in the Ports-to-Plains conversation, Del Rio stands at the intersection of commerce and culture, transportation and tourism, and Mexico and the United States—where history and the future come together. e road ahead is being built. Now, the question is: What story will Del Rio invite the world to discover?

“Del Rio has a story worth sharing,” - Miss Del Rio Jazel Sanchez.


pg 30 Miss Del Rio


Lorem Ipsum

1932-2026

For more than seventy years, the Miss Del Rio Pageant has celebrated young women who embody

grace, leadership confidence and service. Each titleholder has become part of a proud tradition representing Del Rio with dignity while inspiring future generaions. eir dedication and accplishments have le a lasting mark on our community, and togehter they remain the Keeprs of the Crown. 1932 1943 1946 1952-53 1953-54 1954-55 1955-56 1956-57 1957-58 1958-59 1959-60 n 1960-61 1961-62 1962-63 1963-64 1964-65 1965-66 1966-67 1967-68 1968-69 1969-70 1970-71 1971-72 1972-73 1973-74 1974-75 1975-76 1976-77 1977-78

Mary Ann Grahm Cauthorn (name not confirmed) Blanch Altizer Carolyn Wease Suan Glenn Willie Ellen Belcher Phyllis Foster Pinni Townsend Cherrill Vasbinder Shirley Whitt Lana Taylor Linda Wardlaw Janet Tidwell Sheri Wetzel Catherine Gulick Beth Ward Suzanne Gates Debbie Foster Georga Lou London (Miss Del Rio Fiesta De Amistad) Kathy Adams Nan Fritsh Rountree Georga Lou London (Title change to Miss Del Rio) Tracey Ahoyt /1970 Susan Lowry (Ahoyt moved) Debbi Davenport Tommi Riddick Mary Catherine Girard Marina De Clue Kathy Villegas Michelle Mida Jana London

1978-79 1979-80 1980-81 1981-82 1982-83 1983-84 ` 1984-85 1985-86 1986-87 1987-88 1988-89 1989-90 1990-91 1991-92 1992-93 1993-94 1994-95 1995-96 1996-97 1997-98 1998-99 1999-00 2000-01 2001-02 2002-03 2003-04 2004-05 2005-06 2006-07 2007-08 2008-09 2009-10

Jacque Isenhour Marcy Steffey Sonya Jones Toni Medina Tina Ricks Stephanie Edminson Susan Valdez Regina Ricks Daggett Angela Masloff Kristi Wright Cindy Bleymaier Heidi Hyder Melissa Garcia Duncan Jennifer Jenkins Jackie Salinas Perez Jaclyn Hope Galindo Christen Bennet Rosa Lee Treviño Paige Blend Lynda Adriance Annaliz Bosquez Irene Martinez Claudia Amezcua Katherine Anne Sutherland Sara Hernandez Nelly Rocha Kara Lynn Cadena Nadia Mota Stephanie Ruiz Katie Lewis Kristie Marie Brown Danielle Hanson

94

2010-11 2011-12 2012-13 2013-14 2014-15 2015-16 2016-17 2017-18 2018-19 2019-20 2020-21 2021-22 2022-23 2024 2025 2026

Kalli Kusenberger Kimberly Ferguson Morgan Leigh Stidham Melinda Maris Courtney Jones Cristina Ziegler Sheanne Geis Samantha Brooke Sandoval Nadia Martínez Dorian Sophia Guadarrama Elaine Oyama Nayeli Duran Jaclyn Isabel Adams Andrea Padilla Evelyn Dominguez Jazel Sanchez

TEEN MISS DEL RIO 2013-14 Brianna Morales 2014-15 Karla June Howard 2015-16 Alisah Cervantes 2016-17 Samantha Keaton 2017-18 Elaine Oyama 2018-19 Kaylee Nicole Yi 2019-20 Amaris De Leon 2020-21 Isabella Levrie 2021-22 Ellie Abrego Zavala 2022-23 Rebecca Camposano

1932

Past Miss Del Rio Directors Julius Sadowsky • Betty Henderson • Mrs. Allen Robert Rust • Carl R. Balmer • Mrs. John Engleking • Doug Van Doren Peggy Acosta and Sharon White • Peggy Acosta and Melba Elders • Joy Sturges Chalk Nettleton Johnny Abrego and Michelle Abrego • Claudia Cruz •Elsa Reyes Current Miss Del Rio Director: Esme Esparza and Claudia Lopez Cruz


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