SOCIALIFE MAGAZINE | JANUARY 2023

YEAR 19 ISSUE 1

2023

COMPLIMENTARY

p.48

p.54

p.80

p.101

SOCIALIFE Readers Ring in 2023

Local Mayors Collaborate on Valley’s Future

SOCIALIFE Supper Club

When Your Running Buddy Has Four Feet

COME TOGETHER Local mayors collaborate on Valley’s future

Ring in a Healthy New Year The beginning of a new year is a great time for a fresh start and South Texas Health System® Clinics is making it easier than ever to commit to a year of good health.

With us, you’ll experience the convenience of close-to-home providers at 30 locations Valley-wide, offering specialized expertise in areas including Family Medicine, Cardiology, Gastroenterology, Orthopedics, Sports Medicine and more.

You can also schedule your visit, your way, thanks to fast, flexible scheduling and in-office or virtual visits*.

Good health can’t wait. Commit now to better health in 2023.

TO MAKE AN APPOINTMENT: For physician referral assistance, call 956-625-1144 To view our provider directory or to schedule appointments online, visit sthsclinics.com

Wishing you a new year filled with good health and happiness!

sthsclinics.com *Virtual visits and scheduling options may vary by provider; visit our website for details. For language assistance, disability accommodations and the nondiscrimination notice, visit our website. 231305750-1360927 12/22

PRESIDENT + PUBLISHER

BRONSON DELRIO

VICE PRESIDENT + PUBLISHER

DR. KIMBERLY SELBER MANAGING EDITOR

YIRA ALDAPE

EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT

CLIFF RANSON

PHOTOGRAPHY DIRECTOR

Magazine Design

Social Media

DECIBEL Communications

Samantha Sauceda

Event Photographers Tania De Luna Charlie Luna Tiffany Miranda

Emilio Santaeelises Michael Sulartz Jose Tello

Out and About Photos Courtesy of Build A Prep Fit Kitchen Fork To Fit Kitchen Good East Healthy Meals Lean Lifestyles Meal Preps To Go Writers

Guest Writers

Dr . Barbara Baggerly-Hinojosa Dr . Ruben Castro Dr . Kimberly Selber

René Ballesteros, Museum of South Texas History

ON THE COVER:

SALLY FRAUSTRO GUERRA

Letter from the Publisher . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 SOCIALIFING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Good Day McAllen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Bubbles & Bling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 McAllen EDC, Cheers to 2022 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Pretty in Pearls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 Rio Grande Regional Casino Night . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 Gelman: Serenata a la Virgen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 Holly Jolly Time at Pharr EDC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 DHR Evening of Joy & Giving . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 Gelman: Devine Music . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 RGV Ballet’s 50th Anniversary Nutcracker . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46 Socialife Readers Ring in 2023 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 Storybook Christmas in Edinburg . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52 Local Mayors Collaborate on Valley’s Future . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54 AAF Strikes Out Hunger . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60 Monarch Obstetrics & Family Medicine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62 Monarch Obstetrics Opens New Clinic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64 Mission Kops 4 Kids . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66 Etiquestions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70 Comprehensive Level I Trauma Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72 Sharyland ISD Education Foundation Boots & Bling . . . . . . . 74 SOCIALIFE Supper Club . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80 Hispanic Chamber Holiday Mixer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82 Non-Profit Spotlight: Habitat for Humanity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86 José Cisneros Collection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88 Out & About: Meal Preps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90 Quinta Mazatlan’s Illumina Fest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92 VSO “Decked the Palms” . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98 Pet of the Month . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100 When Your Running Buddy Has Four Feet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .101 Calendar of Events . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106

Bronson delRio and Cliff Ranson at Decibel studios discussing cover and article with Ambrosio Hernandez, Javier Villalobos, Ramiro Garza JR, and Nori Garza. We are grateful to have such great community leaders wrorking together .

FOR ADVERTISING OR OTHER INQUIRIES, REACH OUT! E-mail: admin@socialifergv .com Office: (956) 683-8499 Web: www .socialifeRGV .com Socialife is published by Socialife News, LLC Permission to use any material herein must be approved in writing by the publisher .

4

SOCIALIFE

WWW.SOCIALIFERGV.COM

$75 Three-Course Early Seating 5 p.m.- 6:30 p.m. $120 Four-Course Prime Seating 7 p.m. - 10 p.m.

2021

YEAR 17 ISSUE 10

YEAR 17 ISSUE 9

p.14

p.40

p.42

p.60

IDEA Under the Stars Gala

PSJA Education Foundation Gala

South Texas College

Out & About Brunch

p.14

p.28

p.40

p.58

IMAS Collage 2021

McAllen Holiday Parade Homecoming

Valley Symphony Orchestra

The Value of Native Plants

2021

VALLEY SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA HIDALGO CO. EDITION YEAR 17 ISSUE 7

p.24

p.28

Good Day McAllen Luncheon

Boots & Bling Gala

p.38

HIDALGO CO. EDITION YEAR 17 ISSUE 3

2021

p.40

South Texas Health System

Women of Distinction

2021

p.10

p.14

p.34

p.42

Mission Strong

Pharr EDC Foundation Ceremony

Quinta Mazatlan Quindecennial Celebration

MOST History - Was Pancho Villa In the Valley?

STC EVOLVING

New Era of Opportunity and Growth

For Those Who Appreciate Excellent Work The Music Returns

SL 43 OCTOBER MASTER.indd EDITORIAL.indd1 1

10/21/21 10/22/21 11:20 6:47 PM

SOUTH PADRE ISLAND FALL/WINTER COMPLIMENTARY

2020

p.6

p.14

p.20

p.32

Hang Like A Local

Fishing Guides

Let’s Eat - Dining Guide

Get Out On The Water

The Right Choice.

SOUTH PADRE ISLAND ULTIMATE INSIDER’S GUIDE

2021

HIDALGO CO. EDITION YEAR 17 ISSUE 8

SL 42 SEPTEMBER MASTER.indd EDITORIAL.indd1 1

9/30/21 9/30/21 10:23 9:03 AM

p.26

p.36

p.48

p.58

City of McAllen Mayor Javier Villalobos

McAllen ISD

Out & About International Food

MOST History Atomic Dawn

Burton McCumber QU I N DEC E N N I A L C E L E BR & Longoria, LLPAT ION OF QU I N TA M A Z AT L Á N

South Texas Health System McAllen

CPAs & Advisors

An Unwavering Commitment to Patient Comfort

SL 40 JULY MASTER.indd 1

HIDALGO CO. EDITION YEAR 17 ISSUE 6

2021

8/2/21 3:42 PM

SOUTH PADRE ISLAND FALL/WINTER COMPLIMENTARY

SL 36 MARCH 21.indd 1

p.20

p.36

VSO Gala

Radisson Hotel

p.48

Out & About Italian

2020

3/26/21 6:14 PM

p.14

Hang Like A Local

Fishing Guides

p.60 Most History

p.6

p.20

p.32

Let’s Eat - Dining Guide

Get Out On The Water

SOUTH PADRE ISLAND

McAllen ISD

ULTIMATE INSIDER’S GUIDE

Educating our community’s children requires a team HIDALGO CO. EDITION YEAR 17 ISSUE 2

CITY OF MCALLEN MAYOR JIM DARLING

2021

HIDALGO CO. EDITION YEAR 17 ISSUE 4

2021

H

p.10

p.32

p.34

p.52

p.8

p.22

p.34

p.54

City of Mission Making a Difference

City of Pharr State of the City

Rio Bank

Friendship in Foreign Soil

City of Pharr - Grand Opening of the first floor of City Hall

McAllen Chamber Of Commerce Power Network

UTRGV Health

Quinta Mazatlan - City of McAllen Takes Monarch Butterfly Pledge

p.10

p.32

p.34

City of Mission Making a Difference

City of Pharr State of the City

Rio Bank

The Radisson Hotel McAllen Airport A Tradition Since 1977

YEAR 17 ISSUE 9

2021

SL 38 JUNE MASTER3.indd 1

HIDALGO CO. EDITION YEAR 17 ISSUE 7

p.24

p.28

Good Day McAllen Luncheon

Boots & Bling Gala

p.38

South Texas Health System

g n i t a r b e Cel ears y 1 8 ving the of ser Valley

p.14

p.28

IMAS Collage 2021

McAllen Holiday Parade Homecoming

RIO BANK: Your Kind of Bank, Your Kind of Banker

SL 35 FEBRUARY 2.indd 1

YEAR 17 ISSUE 10

2021

7/6/21 8:29 AM

p.40

p.58

Valley Symphony Orchestra

The Value of Native Plants

p.14

p.40

p.42

p.60

IDEA Under the Stars Gala

PSJA Education Foundation Gala

South Texas College

Out & About Brunch

VALLEY SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA 2021

2/26/21 5:27 PM

HIDALGO CO. EDITION YEAR 17 ISSUE 3

p.40 Women of Distinction

RIO BANK: Your Kind of Bank, Your Kind of Ban

2021

p.10

p.14

p.34

p.42

Mission Strong

Pharr EDC Foundation Ceremony

Quinta Mazatlan Quindecennial Celebration

MOST History - Was Pancho Villa In the Valley?

SL 35 FEBRUARY 2.indd 1

H

p.24

p.28

Good Day McAllen Luncheon

Boots & Bling Gala

p.38

South Texas Health System

STC EVOLVING

New Era of Opportunity and Growth

The Music Returns

11 11:20 6:47 PM

HIDALGO CO. EDITION YEAR 17 ISSUE 8

EDITORIAL.indd1 1 SL 42 SEPTEMBER MASTER.indd

p.20

p.36

VSO Gala

Radisson Hotel

p.48

Out & About Italian

p.48

p.58

Out & About International Food

MOST History Atomic Dawn

SL 43 OCTOBER MASTER.indd EDITORIAL.indd1 1

2021

8/2/21 3:42 PM

p.60 Most History

McAllen ISD

2020

p.6

p.14

p.20

p.32

Hang Like A Local

Fishing Guides

Let’s Eat - Dining Guide

Get Out On The Water

SOUTH PADRE ISLAND ULTIMATE INSIDER’S GUIDE

2020

p.6

p.14

p.20

p.32

Hang Like A Local

Fishing Guides

Let’s Eat - Dining Guide

Get Out On The Water

ULTIMATE INSIDER’S GUIDE

SOUTH PADRE ISLAND FALL/WINTER COMPLIMENTARY

SL 36 MARCH 21.indd 1

10/21/21 10/22/21 11:20 6:47 PM

SOUTH PADRE ISLAND FALL/WINTER COMPLIMENTARY

SOUTH PADRE ISLAND

CITY OF MCALLEN MAYOR JIM DARLING

An Unwavering Commitment to Patient Comfort

HIDALGO CO. EDITION YEAR 17 ISSUE 6

p.36

McAllen ISD

9/30/21 10:23 9:03 AM 9/30/21

QU I N DEC E N N I A L C E L E BR AT ION OF QU I N TA M A Z AT L Á N

South Texas Health System McAllen

SL 40 JULY MASTER.indd 1

p.26 City of McAllen Mayor Javier Villalobos

2021

Scan the QR Code to subscribe.

South Texas Health System McA

An Unwavering Commitment to Patient Com

3/26/21 6:14 PM

SL 40 JULY MASTER.indd 1

H

p.20

p.36

VSO Gala

Radisson Hotel

p.48

Out & About Italian

NAVARRA COLLECTION

4300 N 10th Suite D McAllen, TX 78504 956.994.0970

Happy New Year! It was

recipes from across the

life. From family activities

wonderful to receive so

region. I can’t wait to try

to nightlife, dining to

many #SOCIALIFE photos

them all!

dancing, South Padre

as our readers rang in the new year. From family game nights to fabulous parties, we got your pictures from Cairo to Colorado, Indiana to South

profits and showcased over 100 fundraising and philanthropic events from

history, and places to relax for a day or a weekend.

Thank you SPI for making us feel so welcome.

Thank you to all our

2023!

Valley. And 2023 will be no

readers, followers,

different as we highlight

customers, and friends for

We’re starting the

and photograph the

such a memorable 2022.

year with a cover story

generosity and dedication

epitomizing my dream for

of our community. Say

A toast to yesterday's

SOCIALIFE—working and

Cheese, and don’t forget

achievements and

growing together. Every

to #SOCIALIFE in your

tomorrow's brighter

day I see this happening

photos.

future!

Be on the lookout for the

Cheers!

all over our region.

Together, there’s nothing

SOCIALIFE

spotlight on 12 non-

Island is full of activities,

across the Rio Grande

Padre Island. Cheers to

38

In 2022 we shined a

we can’t do!

Spring/Summer edition

You’ll also see a new series,

love being part of the

SOCIALIFE Supper Club.

Island community and

Here we’ll share family

bringing their stories to

of SOCIALIFE SPI. We

- Sally WWW.SOCIALIFERGV.COM

All You Need Is ...and we have them!

OH KAY S!

4300 North 10th Street in McAllen Telephone 956.686.1264

In‑store. Telephone. By Appointment. Curbside Service Available!

Your Health.

OUR PURPOSE. At South Texas Health System ®, the health of you and your family is our top priority. It drives everything we do and inspires us to be among the nation’s leaders in healthcare.

NATIONALLY RECOGNIZED YEAR AFTER YEAR Accreditations and awards for excellence in patient safety, heart, stroke, women’s healthcare, robotic surgery, and more AN INTEGRATED NETWORK OF CARE Providing comprehensive and advanced services at our four acute care facilities, six freestanding emergency departments, and behavioral health facility A LEGACY OF INVESTING IN VALLEY “FIRSTS” Including our dedicated children’s and heart care facilities, innovative procedures and programs, and hybrid operating rooms

Visit southtexashealthsystem.com/RGVpriority to learn more about South Texas Health System.

With locations throughout the Valley, we are where you are: FACILITIES: South Texas Heath System Behavioral South Texas Health System Children’s South Texas Health System Edinburg South Texas Health System Heart South Texas Health System McAllen FREESTANDING ERS: Alamo • McColl • Mission Monte Cristo • Ware Road • Weslaco

Physicians are independent practitioners who, with limited exceptions, are not employees or agents of South Texas Health System. The System shall not be liable for actions or treatments provided by physicians. For language assistance, disability accommodations and the nondiscrimination notice, visit our website. 22651359-1271803 12/22

Thank you for supporting The Santa Fe Steakhouse Wine Classic.

For more information regarding McAllen’s Education Initiatives Program or the Santa Fe Wine Classic, please contact Sony Rego at (956) 630.2331.

FRIDAY, MARCH 24th, 2023 6:30pm- 10:30pm Music by

RSVP 956.630.2331

Quinta Mazatlan 600 Sunset Drive McAllen, Texas

Thyroid Awareness Month LEARN ABOUT THYROID HEALTH, DISEASE DETECTION, AND TREATMENT OPTIONS NEAR YOU January is Thyroid Awareness Month, and thyroid health is more important than ever.

Henry A. Reinhart, M.D., F.A.C.S. Endocrine & General Surgery

According to the American Thyroid Association, an estimated 20 million Americans have some form of thyroid disease. Up to 60 percent of those with thyroid disease are unaware of their condition.

UT Health RGV’s Dr. Henry Reinhart, one of the Valley’s only board-certified and fellowship-trained endocrine surgeons, advises everyone to take care of their thyroid. Dr. Reinhart says thyroid awareness is critical to early detection and a patient’s overall health.

ABOUT THE THYROID The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped organ in the neck that produces thyroid hormones. These hormones are responsible for regulating metabolism, energy levels, body temperature, and other body functions. The thyroid plays a major role in the growth and development of the human body, which is why maintaining thyroid health is essential.

SYMPTOMS OF THYROID DISEASE Feeling nervous, moody, and weak? These may be signs of hyperthyroidism - when the thyroid creates and releases too much thyroid hormone in the bloodstream.

Feeling tired and sluggish? These may be signs of hypothyroidism - when the thyroid doesn’t create and release enough thyroid hormone in the bloodstream.

Feel a lump or bump in your neck? This may be a common or cancerous thyroid nodule. These nodules often make it difficult to breathe or swallow.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, Dr. Reinhart recommends seeing a doctor. “You would benefit from getting some bloodwork done, you might need an ultrasound if you feel any lumps or bumps in your neck. If anything comes from it, you may come and see me - I’m glad to help you out.”

TREATMENT OPTIONS, CLOSE TO HOME If you have questions or concerns about your thyroid health, Dr. Reinhart suggests a thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) test. This test will help determine if your hormones are in line. A neck ultrasound may follow.

“If patients do have a thyroid nodule, they may need a biopsy which can be done in my office,” Dr. Reinhart said. “I can take care of patients who require additional treatment, surgery, or want the nodules reduced - there are many options.”

Dr. Reinhart now offers a radiofrequency ablation (RFA) option for treating thyroid nodules. “Radiofrequency ablation is a technique where we insert a little needle inside a tumor or nodule, and we use heat to shrink these nodules,” he said. “It’s not a surgery, it’s something we can do in a clinic, and it has incredible results.” Dr. Reinhart is currently one of the few doctors in the US and the only doctor in the mid and lower Valley who performs this procedure.

If you are experiencing thyroid issues, make an appointment and learn more about your options with Dr. Henry Reinhart, located at the UT Health RGV Surgery and Women’s Specialty clinic in Harlingen.

To learn more or schedule an appointment with a UT Health RGV doctor, please visit UTHealthRGV.org or call 1-833-UTRGVMD.

HIGH-QUALITY CARE FOR EVERY PATIENT, FOR EVERY FAMILY, CLOSE TO HOME. Our patient care locations offer services and treatments in family medicine, neurology, general and endocrine surgery, along with vision, ear, nose, & throat, women’s health, plastic surgery, pediatrics, orthopedics, sports medicine, behavioral health services and many more - right here, close to home.

What matters to your health, matters to us.

UTHealthRGV.org | 1-833-UTRGVMD

www.socialifeRGV.com

13

puppe love save date

February 18, 2023 McAllen Convention Center

Palm Valley Animal Society goes High Society with this year's annual Puppy Love Gala! Put on your best clothes and come out for an evening of festivity and fun to help the lost and homeless animals of the RGV. Only a few tables are still available, so make your reservation today.

Sponsorship Levels Duke and Duchess $20,000 Includes premiere seating for 30.

Marquess and Marchioness $15,000 Includes reserved seating for 20 Earl and Countess $10,000 Includes reserved seating for 10 Viscount and Viscountess $5,000 Includes reserved seating for 10 Baron and Baroness $3,000 Includes reserved seating for 10 Table of 10 reservations $2,000 Individual reservations $250

For Information Keely Lewis (956)369-2089 Arlina Larson (956)648-1880 PuppyLoveGala@pvastx.org www.pvastx.org/puppylove

Benefitting www.pvastx.org/puppylove

Double Up! Graduate High School with College Credits

SAVE TIME. SAVE MONEY.

DUAL CREDIT P R O G R A M S AT SOUTH TEXAS COLLEGE

Enroll in a Dual Credit Program and study college courses while still in high school. Students can choose to take academic classes or study technical programs such as welding, automotive or even nursing.

Students get a head start on their college education and can save their parents thousands of dollars in the process.

That’s a win-win!

#STCdualcredit

Talk to your counselor or go online at: s o u t h t ex a s c o l l e g e . e d u / d u a l

Capital solutions for your business

VICTORY TAKES VISION

MEET OUR TEAM

WWW.VANTAGE.BANK

FIND US

social lifing

IRMA GARZA RIO GRANDE REGIONAL HOSPITAL BOARD OF DIRECTORS, CPA, ENTREPRENEUR AT THE GREAT PYRAMIDS AT GIZA, CAIRO, EGYPT

JUAN OLAGUIBEL, MCALLEN-HIDALGO & ANZALDUAS SUPERINTENDENT OF BRIDGES, REYNOSA, TAMPAULIPAS, MEXICO

20 16

SOCIALIFE

KRISTI COLLIER, PRESIDENT OF WELCOME HOME RGV & SALLY FRAUSTRO GUERRA, MCALLEN, TX

MARIA ALVAREZ DIRECTOR OF SALES, RADIO UNITED AT CLAMPITT PAPER, DALLAS, TX

WWW.SOCIALIFERGV.COM

art in every bite TASTE THE FRESHNESS IN EACH DISH

SOCIALIFE the scene

GOOD DAY MCALLEN

Photography by Jose Tello

Santa Claus parked his sleigh and made an appearance at the last Good Day McAllen luncheon of 2022.

The McAllen Chamber of Commerce hosted its signature quarterly luncheon “holiday edition” December 2, 2022, at Embassy Suites by Hilton McAllen Convention Center.

More than 200 guests had the opportunity to connect, establish business relationships, and network. MC’s Rick Guerra & John Kreidler introduced Chamber’s new members while guests enjoyed lunch. Good Day McAllen Luncheon sponsored by South Texas Health System McAllen. Santa Claus appearance thanks to Socialife News Magazine.

T1108860.JPG YES5.JPG 22

STEPHEN WINGERT

WENDY KNIGHT, SANTA, SALLY FRAUSTRO GUERRA

22

www.socialifeRGV.com

www.socialifeRGV.com

22

SOCIALIFE the scene SOCIALIFE the scene

BUBBLES AND BLING RING IN THE HOLIDAYS

Photography by Jose Tello

On December 7th, the Boys & Girls Club of McAllen officially kicked off the holiday season with their anticipated annual soiree: Bubbles & Bling! Presented by Deutsch & Deutsch and hosting over 200 guests in their mixed-use space, Bubbles & Bling boasts the most soughtafter raffle and cocktail time. All proceeds benefit the 10,000 children and teens the Boys & Girls Club serves annually through after-school programming, summer camp, athletics, and community outreach!

This year’s prizes included a $25,000 gift certificate to Deutsch & Deutsch, $5,000 to Sylvias, $3,000 to One Med Spa (a new sponsor in 2022!), a $2,000 gift certificate to Delgado Collective, a $1,000 gift card to Total Wine & More and a $1,000 to Spa La Posada.

For more information about the mission of the Boys & Girls Club of McAllen, visit www.bgcmcallen.net

24 20

www.socialifeRGV.com www.socialifeRGV.com

SOCIALIFE the scene SOCIALIFE the scene

www.socialifeRGV.com www.socialifeRGV.com

25 21

SOCIALIFE the scene

MCALLEN EDC, CHEERS TO A SUCCESSFUL 2022

Photography by Tania De Luna

Another successful year ends, and what better way to celebrate than with great music, great food, and great friends. The McAllen Economic Development Corporation hosted leading figures in government and business from McAllen and Reynosa, as well as close friends and longtime colleagues of the organization, at their annual Holiday Celebration on December 1st. The event was catered by the exceptional Delgado Collective featuring Salome on Main, SALT New American Table, and House Wine Bistro. Cheers to another phenomenal year!

26

www.socialifeRGV.com

www.socialifeRGV.com

23

Coming 2024!

McAllen ISD and the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley have joined in a new venture that will benefit high school students for many years to come. In January, 2023, officials gathered for the groundbreaking of the UTRGV-McAllen ISD Collegiate Academy. This academy will place McAllen ISD students in the front of the line of opportunities by providing them with a huge head start

on a bachelor’s degree at no cost to their families. The anticipated savings to families will be nearly $2.4 million (per class of 125 students) over two years.

Students will be able to choose from one of four tracks – Health Science, Computer Science, Engineering or Education.

The 65,500 square-foot state-of-the-art facility will open its doors in fall 2024!

Experience the Premier Hotel in McAllen Relax in one of our 150 guest suites, enjoy a nightly cocktail reception and made-to-order omelets every morning. Indulge in fresh mesquite-fired Tex-Mex at our in-house On the Border Cantina & Grill. Energize at our in-house cafe Proudly Serving Starbucks Coffee.

Get the complete McAllen experience at Embassy Suites, located only steps from dozens of popular stores, McAllen Perfoming Arts Center, and McAllen Convention Center.

Embassy Suites by Hilton McAllen Convention Center 800 Convention Center Blvd.

McAllen, Texas 78501 (956) 688-8329 embassymcallen.com McAllen Performing Arts Center

H O S P I TA L I T Y

I know a place to find something new.

A place where the shopping is fun, the food scene is fierce, and the festivals are larger than life. I know McAllen, TX. Visit this weekend, so you'll be the one who knows a place.

Book your hotel getaway at visitmcallen.com OR SCAN HERE

See Festival Schedule Shopping, Food & more at EXPLOREMCALLEN.COM

www.socialifeRGV.com

29

SOCIALIFE SOCIALIFEthe thescene scene

EVERYONE COULD “FEEL THE LOVE” AT PRETTY IN PEARLS

Photography by: Jose Tello

Comfort House hosted its annual fundraiser, Pretty in Pearls, on December 1, 2022, at the McAllen Convention Center. Over 350 individuals attended the sold-out event. This year’s South Sea Pearl Recipients were Carlos Melguizo and Saul Sanchez. The evening was filled with entertainment, laughter, dancing, and lots of support for the organization that has been providing its services to our communities for the past thirty-two years.

CARLOS MELGUIZO & SAUL SANCHEZ

30

www.socialifeRGV.com

www.socialifeRGV.com

30

SOCIALIFE SOCIALIFEthe thescene scene

TODD MANN & LETTY MANN

www.socialifeRGV.com www.socialifeRGV.com

3131

Dedicated to the Health of Your Workforce Workplace injuries are all too common. On average, someone is injured on the job every seven seconds in the United States*. Sadly, workplace injuries can be life altering, with some resulting in long-term consequences.

Fortunately, Michael Wirsching, MD, MPH, a board-certified occupational medicine physician, provides workers’ compensation services at South Texas Health System® Clinics that can help bridge the gap between employers and healthcare providers.

He approaches patient care with a comprehensive injury assessment and follows up with the appropriate treatments.

Available pre-employment services include DOT physicals, pre-employment physicals and return-to-work physicals. Additional services include drug and alcohol testing, EKGs, firefighter surveillance physicals, immunizations, pulmonary function testing, vision and audiometry testing, and more.

Michael Wirsching, MD, MPH Occupational Medicine

Occupational Medicine South Texas Health System Clinics 4302 S. Sugar Rd. | Suite 201 | Edinburg, TX 78539 TO MAKE AN APPOINTMENT: Schedule online at sthsclinics.com or call 956-587-9919 Accepts Medicare, Medicaid and most medical insurance plans *National Safety Council

sthsclinics.com For language assistance, disability accommodations and the nondiscrimination notice, visit our website. 231305750-1332138 12/22

SOCIALIFE SOCIALIFEthe thescene scene

A NIGHT AT THE CASINO CELEBRATES RIO GRANDE REGIONAL STAFF Photography by: Jose Tello Rio Grande Regional Hospital celebrated its medical staff and 40 years of service with a Night at the Casino Holiday Event on December 2, 2022. Members of the medical staff and hospital leaders celebrated with dinner, dancing, and plenty of casino fun at the Embassy Suites

by Hilton McAllen Convention Center. Hospital Chief Executive Officer, Cris Rivera, shared how grateful she was to all the medical staff for the care they provide to our community. “I am proud of our caregivers who continue to focus on patient outcomes and excellence. Because above all else, we are committed to the care and improvement of human life.”

34

www.socialifeRGV.com

www.socialifeRGV.com

34

SOCIALIFE SOCIALIFE the the scene scene

www.socialifeRGV.com www.socialifeRGV.com

35 35

SOCIALIFE the scene SOCIALIFE

OUR LADY OF GUADALUPE CELEBRATED AT GELMAN MUSEUM

Photography by Tiffany Miranda

On December 12, 1531, Our Lady of Guadalupe appeared in front of a boy named Juan Diego in Mexico. To celebrate this event, Catholics all over Mexico celebrate by dedicating a ceremonial “Serenata a la Virgen.” The Gelman Stained Glass Museum was delighted to celebrate this occasion with the musical group “Mariachi 7 Leguas” on December 11. The night was lively and filled with enchanting music.

36

www.socialifeRGV.com

www.socialifeRGV.com

36

I will enjoy dancing again.

If you have been struggling with weight control, we understand how hard it can be to find and stick with an effective plan.

Weight loss surgery may be recommended by doctors as part of a long-term solution.

It may be just what you’re looking for to renew confidence about your future health and even reverse potentially serious health complications.

There’s an easy, quick way to find out if you’re a candidate for weight loss surgery.

Take our short online assessment. Your results will be available right away, and there’s no further obligation.

Are you ready to take the next step?

To learn more, visit riohealth.com/redefine or call 956.661.3100 101 E Ridge Rd, McAllen, TX 78503 | 956.632.6000

SOCIALIFE SOCIALIFEthe thescene scene

HOLLY JOLLY TIME AT PHARR EDC

Photography by Tiffany Miranda

On December 15th, the Pharr Economic Development Corporation hosted its annual Holiday Social to celebrate a year of accomplishments alongside businesses and community partners. “We are grateful and excited to see what the new year brings and are committed to supporting the growth and success of our community,” said Victor Perez, President & CEO

38

www.socialifeRGV.com

www.socialifeRGV.com

38

CITY HALL UPDATE City of Pharr

118 S. Cage Blvd. | Pharr, TX | 78577

(956) 402-4000

I hope you had a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

As we enter a new year, it always brings me such pride to reflect on all that we have accomplished over the course of the past year (2022).

We all know that the holidays can be a difficult time of year for some Pharr families. As a city, we were committed to helping bring holiday cheer to our residents, which we accomplished by hosting many FREE events to celebrate the season. These events fostered a strong sense of community, allowing our Pharr families to enjoy and share in the spirit of Thanksgiving and Christmas with our neighbors. Let’s continue to spread joy with each other and with our community, not only during this special season, but all year round.

As we start 2023, I am filled with an immense sense of hope and optimism for what this new year will bring.

We have many exciting projects and events in store, and we look forward to hosting these events and sharing them with YOU - our Pharr family!

SCAN HERE FOR FULL STORY

Mayor Ambrosio Hernandez, M.D.

The City of Pharr EMS, Pharr Fire Department and Pharr Police Department joined forces to distribute 300 turkeys and fixings to pre-selected families in the City of Pharr. Families were chosen through PSJA ISD, Hidalgo ISD, Valley View ISD, Vanguard Academy, and IDEA Public Schools. Thank you to all city employees and volunteers for providing these families with a Happy Thanksgiving!

BENEFIT: Sharing the gift of Thanksgiving with Pharr families in need.

PHARR CELEBRATES THE HOLIDAYS WITH A COMMUNITY “TAMALADA” SCAN HERE FOR FULL STORY

Mayor Dr. Ambrosio Hernandez and our City Commission accompanied Pharr residents at the annual tamalada at the Pharr Development and Research Center.

Families enjoyed a nice dinner, gifts for the children and parents were able to interact with our city leaders.

BENEFIT: Fostering community interaction with city leaders and providing a feast of delicious tamales for families and FREE gifts for children.

NEARLY TEN THOUSAND ATTEND MAGICAL CITY OF PHARR POSADA!

On behalf of my family, the members of the Pharr City Commission, and Pharr administration and employees, we wish you and yours a prosperous new year!

Sincerely,

@ cityofpharr

PHARR PD, FIRE & EMS DONATE HUNDREDS OF TURKEY MEALS

Dear Pharr Citizens and Families:

Here in Pharr, we consistently strive for EXCELLENCE in all we do. We aim to provide the highest-quality level of customer service for all our constituents, and we work tirelessly every day to ensure that YOU, our Pharr families, are enjoying the best quality of life that a city can offer.

pharr-tx.gov

SCAN HERE FOR FULL STORY

The City of Pharr celebrated the Christmas holiday by hosting its annual Christmas Posada, which included snow, live music, food, characters, and activities designed to spread cheer to families and citizens.

Downtown Pharr was packed with families enjoying the FREE event. The area was aglow with holiday lights, Christmas cheer, and smiling faces, all enjoying the posada festivities. MERRY CHRISTMAS!

BENEFIT: Promoting our Pharr community culture by bringing our families together to enjoy the festivites and celebrate the holiday season safely with merriment and fun.

SOCIALIFE the scene SOCIALIFE

DHR EVENING OF JOY AND GIVING

Photography by: Emilio Santaelises

December 16th was a night of celebration for a noble cause at the Renaissance Cancer Foundation “An Evening of Joy & Giving” Gala.

Sponsors, guests, and supporters came together at the Edinburg Conference Center at Renaissance to raise more than half a million dollars benefiting underserved cancer patients in the Rio Grande Valley.

Patrons enjoyed delicious food and cocktails while bidding on many fabulous items during the silent auction. Everyone had fun dancing the night away to the live musical performance of the “Simply Irresistible” band from Atlanta, Georgia.

For more information about the Renaissance Cancer Foundation, please visit https://linktr.ee/rencancerfoundation

40 2

www.socialifeRGV.com

SOCIALIFE the the scene scene SOCIALIFE

www.socialifeRGV.com www.socialifeRGV.com

413

SOCIALIFEthe thescene scene SOCIALIFE

HOLIDAY CHEER AND DEVINE MUSIC AT GELMAN CONCERT

Photography by Tiffany Miranda

On December 18, 2022, as the year came to an end, piano music echoed off the walls of the Gelman Stained Glass Museum. The acoustics in the museum were elevated grounds for the sounds of the grand piano. James Dick, the renowned Kansas-born pianist, performed the first piano concert at the museum. The event was full of holiday cheer as the artist, and his beloved instrument played with gleeful energy, shared amongst his noteworthy crowd.

JOHN DICK AND MIRIAM CEPEDA GELMAN

5 44

www.socialifeRGV.com www.socialifeRGV.com

Come Visit the Largest

m u se u M s ow d in W ss la G Stained in the United States!

411 Virgen de San Juan Blvd. | San Juan, TX

(956) 601-0838 | www.gelmanmuseum.org

SOCIALIFE the scene

RGV BALLET’S 50TH ANNIVERSARY PERFORMANCE OF THE NUTCRACKER IS MAGICAL

Photography by Jose Tello

Rio Grande Valley Ballet and Artistic Director, Deborah Case celebrated their 50th anniversary of The Nutcracker at McAllen Performing Arts Center, Dec. 10-11, 2022, to a nearly sold-out audience. The performances were to a live orchestra conducted by Dr. Norman Gamboa. The cast of over 100 dancers, ranging in age from six years old to adult, captivated audiences with colorful costumes and delightful performances.

Guest artists Michael Rodriguez and William Kauffmann were featured in this year’s cast.

DEBORAH CASE

18 46

www.socialifeRGV.com

SOCIALIFE the the scene scene SOCIALIFE

www.socialifeRGV.com www.socialifeRGV.com

19 47

GLITZ. GLAMOU

SOCIAL LIFE READ

48

www.socialifeRGV.com

UR. GAME NIGHT.

DERS RING IN 2023

WWW.SOCIALIFERGV.COM

SOCIALIFE www.socialifeRGV.com

11149

SOCIALIFE SOCIALIFE the the scene scene

A STORYBOOK CHRISTMAS IN EDINBURG In December, the City of Edinburg hosted a 2-for-1 holiday extravaganza with the ‘Santa and Sirens’ Firestoppers Festival and ‘A Storybook Christmas’ Parade!

The 30th Annual Firestoppers Festival was a night full of fun, food, entertainment, and live music performances by Tejano Highway 281, Conjunto Cats, and Spare Parts. Families brought their lawn chairs and blankets to enjoy the music at Edinburg’s new amphitheater.

Residents also lined the streets to enjoy a beautifully lighted parade full of brightly decorated floats, marching bands, and a visit from Santa Claus!

PATRICK AND KARRI WOODIN

52

www.socialifeRGV.com

MICHAEL AND LYNDA FURGATCH

www.socialifeRGV.com

29

SOCIALIFE COMMUNITY PRIDE

COME TOGETHER

Local mayors collaborate on Valley’s future

By Dr. Kimberly Selber Photography by Cliff Ranson

54

www.socialifeRGV.com

SOCIALIFE COMMUNITY PRIDE

Water, the elixir of life, flows through our rivers, cascades down our waterfalls, and sparkles in our oceans. It sustains us, nourishes us, and gives us the ability to grow and thrive.

But water untamed and unrestrained can lead to devastation, especially in neighborhoods with drainage issues. The June storm of 2018 left the drought-ridden Rio Grande Valley with 18” to 3 feet of water that flooded thousands of vehicles and inundated several thousand homes and businesses. Damage estimates were in the hundreds of millions of dollars.

Drainage prompted the mayors of Edinburg, Pharr, McAllen, and Mission to join forces in 2022. Ambrosio Hernandez, MD (Pharr) was elected to office in 2015 and is the senior most elected official of the group. Javier Villalobos (McAllen) began serving in 2021. Ramiro Garza (Edinburg) took the oath of office in December 2021, and Nori Garza, the first woman to be elected mayor of Mission, took her post in June 2022. But what started as a conversation about drainage has become an ongoing partnership designed to grow the region.

“Drainage issues began our conversations,” said Edinburg Mayor Ramiro Garza. “We started meeting to let each other know what we were doing.” Discussing the specific challenges and solutions each city faced, the mayors quickly realized that moving the region forward not only on drainage but on economic development would take collaboration.

“By working together, we can assure that we aren’t duplicating efforts,” said Mission Mayor Nori Garza. “This saves everyone time and money.”

Her colleagues agree on that and have spoken about other related aspects of the situation.

“This conversation is long overdue,” stated McAllen Mayor Javier Villalobos. All four mayors said that finding common ground and ways that the cities can support each other is a new way of approaching issues. “This is the first time the mayors have ever regularly met,” said Pharr Mayor Ambrosio Hernandez, M.D. “The timing is right. We have really good karma together.”

Now, the four have invited other cities in Hidalgo County to join their quarterly meetings. “The last time we met, about half of the cities in our county showed up,” said Villalobos.

DRAINAGE For decades the Rio Grande Valley has suffered from drainage issues. One way to combat the problem is to establish standards for new subdivision drainage across the Valley. Edinburg, Pharr, McAllen, and Mission are leading the way by requiring all new developments to have the same requirements and encouraging the smaller cities to join them. “Don’t let contractors pressure you [the city] to install sub-standard drainage by threatening to go to another city,” Hernandez said. “If we all have the same standards, everybody wins.”

McAllen has demonstrated how effective these changes can be. “In June 2018, McAllen had 2000 homes that were gravely impacted by a tremendous amount of rain over two-days,” Villalobos said. “In 2000, we had a similar storm with the same amount of rain, but only 200 homes were affected.

We’re making progress.”

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT The drainage issue is one of several the group of Valley leaders have come together to discuss in recent months.

That issue can be tucked into the larger context of overall development.

According to the US Census Bureau, the metropolitan area of McAllen-Mission-Edinburg-Pharr grew approximately 13% between 2010 and 2020. And with this growth comes the need for services—water, electricity, parks, entertainment, etc. “To provide these services, we need to maximize our resources. And to do that, we must come together,” said Ramiro Garza. For the region to flourish, we have to focus on economic development, and to maximize our efforts, we need to market our region together, suggests Hernandez.

“We are stronger together,” he said. “Economic development is key to our growth and prosperity,” said Nori Garza.

Partnerships and collaboration across the region with The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley and South Texas College are key components to driving economic growth in the Rio Grande Valley. “McAllen and Mission are working together on a project that will provide approximately 1,400 jobs for engineers,” said Nori Garza. “This means jobs for our engineering students.”

And jobs mean home sales in Mission and Pharr, meals out in McAllen, and tickets to concerts and sporting events in Edinburg. Jobs mean growing families and a need for healthcare, green space, and cultural events. And with this growth, a responsibility to provide the community with neighborhoods that do not flood.

Gone are the days of one-school towns that battle it out under football’s Friday Night Lights. A new era of collaboration, trust, and growth is in the making.

»

www.socialifeRGV.com

55

SOCIALIFE COMMUNITY PRIDE

SOCIALIFE Q&A WITH

Ambrosio Hernandez, MD Mayor of Pharr since 2015 Pediatric Surgeon What is your biggest challenge being mayor of Pharr?

When I first took office, people didn’t know how much I could multitask; I work 24/7. I expect people to work. I told the staff, I’m not your boss; the taxpayers are. We’re not going to do easy - we’re going to take calculated, well-thought-out risks. So my biggest challenge was to help those who were not committed to the mission of the city to move on.

What project or initiative are you most proud of?

CITY OF

PHARR Dr. Ambrosio Hernandez, a Pharr native, was elected into office in 2015 and reelected in 2019. Hernandez is a pediatric surgeon, bariatric surgeon, director of surgical services, hospital compliance officer, and business professional by trade.

Mayor Hernandez attended Pharr-San Juan-Alamo High School in 1986 and received his Bachelor of Science in Biology from The University of Texas-Pan American in 1990. He received his Doctor of Medicine from the University of Michigan Medical School in Ann Arbor in 1995 and obtained a Master’s Degree in Medical Science from The University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston.

56

www.socialifeRGV.com

We have great communication. We have a dialog with our community about what is happening in our city. Everything is bilingual, too. We are truly here to help. I love interacting with people. Just talking and bonding, chit chat over coffee, and hearing the ideas and suggestions from our citizens. They realize I’m just like them. I’m from here. I have the same traditions.

What do you love most about Pharr?

The people are very nice. They are polite and nice to each other.

They hold us [elected officials] accountable, and as long as we are truthful, people listen. They may not agree, but they are respectful.

What do you want Pharr to be known for?

We do the right thing and do what is right for our city and the region because we are one family.

SOCIALIFE COMMUNITY PRIDE

SOCIALIFE Q&A WITH

Javier Villalobos Mayor of McAllen since 2021 Attorney What is your biggest challenge as the mayor of mcallen?

My biggest challenge is really a personal one. I can’t spend as much time with my family as I’d like. I can’t tend to my business as much because I need to be out there as the Mayor of McAllen. And I’m out there.

What project or initiative are you most proud of?

The last few years have been tough—COVID, immigration issues, sales tax—and we came out smelling like a rose. We were efficient and effective. We managed the city well and reduced our tax rate to the 2014 rate.

What are the top issues facing McAllen?

Traffic congestion. Our roads were not built to account for our growth. We’d like to see a loop constructed around the city, not through it. This would reduce congestion tremendously.

Javier Villalobos served as a member of the McAllen City Commission, the Texas Prepaid Higher Education Tuition Board (appointed by Gov. Abbott), McAllenHidalgo International Bridge Board, Anzaldúas International Bridge Board, Border Trade Alliance, and the Texas Border Coalition before being elected mayor of McAllen. He received his Bachelor’s degree from Southwest Texas State (now Texas State) and his law degree from Thurgood Marshall School of Law in

Parks. People want more green space, and we need the property to develop parks. We are currently looking for new areas to create park space.

Perception. Because of the news and our proximity to the border, there is a distorted perception of McAllen outside the RGV. For example, in 2022, we were ranked the sixth safest city in America, and our crime rate has decreased for thirteen consecutive years

What do you love the most about McAllen?

The people are so positive. It is an honor to be the mayor. I appreciate the honesty, integrity, and transparency of our city government.

Houston.

What do you want McAllen to be known for?

As the hub of South Texas, as a destination city. Come and enjoy McAllen with your family! But truly, it isn’t just McAllen. It is the whole area.

www.socialifeRGV.com

57

SOCIALIFE COMMUNITY PRIDE

SOCIALIFE Q&A WITH

Ramiro Garza Jr. Mayor of Edinburg since Dec 2021 President, RG Economic Advisors What is your biggest challenge as mayor of Edinburg?

Addressing all of the challenges of a growing community. For example, in 2022, there were 60 new subdivisions in our city—2640 new lots. In 2023 we already have 75 new subdivisions and 3,300 new lots planned. We welcome the growth, but we need to ensure that we have all the necessary services across the city - roads, power, water, police, and fire, for example.

Since taking office, what project or initiative are you most proud of?

I’ll have to say the Edinburg 2040 plan. It brings people together, and I appreciate our community's involvement. Cities aren’t set up to easily take in feedback. The eight 2040 committees that we established are already bringing us ideas—good ideas— to implement. For example, one committee noticed that our comprehensive plan hadn’t been updated since 2005, when we only had a population of 50,000. Now we have over 100,000. We’re working on that update now!

Born and raised in the Rio Grande Valley, Edinburg mayor Ramiro Garza Jr. was no stranger to City Hall. When he took office in 2021, he had already spent fifteen years as the Executive Director of the Edinburg Economic Development Corporation and then as Edinburg City Manager. Mayor Garza received his bachelors degree in Business Administration from UT Brownsville, now UTRGV.

What are the top issues facing Edinburg?

First off would be infrastructure and keeping up with mindful growth. Second, we must address basic needs and ensure we have sufficient fire and police coverage and a large enough service center.

Third, I’d say positioning our city to compete for opportunities. We welcome new growth as a city with two hospital systems, a major university, and the county seat; we need to capitalize on these assets.

What do you love most about Edinburg?

Even though we have a population of over 100,000, Edinburg still feels like a small community. People look out for one another, and you’re made to feel like family.

What do you want Edinburg to be known for ?

That Edinburg is a family-friendly, innovative community that cares about its people.

58

www.socialifeRGV.com

SOCIALIFE COMMUNITY PRIDE

SOCIALIFE Q&A WITH

Nori Garza Mayor of Mission since June 2022 Owner, Real Estate investments Co, LLC

CITY OF

MISSION

What is your biggest challenge as mayor of Mission?

Like most, our biggest challenge is funding and drainage. We are working through our comprehensive drainage improvement plan and have completed three of the five major projects..

Nori Garza is a lifelong resident of Mission.

She graduated from Mission High School in 1977 and received her bachelor's degree from then Pan American University in 1981. Before taking office, Garza served on numerous city committees and as county commissioner for four terms.

What are your top priorities as mayor?

Drainage, Economic Development, Residential Development, and working with our three school districts—Sharyland, Mission, and La Joya.

What do you love most about mission?

I was born and raised here; I’ve never had an address outside Mission! I love the sense of community. If someone needs help, the community comes together to lend a helping hand.

What do you want Mission to be known for ?

I want Mission to be the go-to place for building a home, starting a family, or starting a business.

www.socialifeRGV.com

59

SOCIALIFEthe thescene scene SOCIALIFE

AAF TOURNAMENT TO STRIKE OUT HUNGER

Photography by: Jose Tello

The American Advertising Federation RGV’s “It’s Time to Give, Grinches” bowling tournament was not your average charity event. The industry came together to show off their skills, sass, and of course, their ugly sweaters, with all proceeds going directly to supporting the UTRGV, STC, and TSC food pantries, providing much-needed assistance to students facing food insecurity.

Twenty teams gathered at Flamingo Bowl in McAllen to battle it out. Radio United took first place in the tournament, followed by Colair and Pro Uniforms. The South Texas College team brought the best spirit, and Sally Fraustro Guerra from SOCIALIFE won the ugliest sweater. The tournament is an excellent example of how the advertising industry can use its resources and talents to impact the community positively.

For more information about the American Advertising Federation, visit aafrgv.org.

CARLOS HURTADO, KARLA CASTILLO, OFIE JIMENEZ, & MARK TEIWES

CHARLIE LUNA, ADRIAN ALFARO, LUISA AVILA

COLAIR TEAM

TONY GARZA, CÉSAR FELIX, CRYSTAL SALINAS, & OMAR SALINAS

60

www.socialifeRGV.com

PATRICK CURRY, CHRISTIAN MATA, MARIO FACUNDO, & LUIS SERVIN

www.socialifeRGV.com

26

SOCIALIFEthe thescene scene SOCIALIFE

EMILY SILVA, CISSY SAENZ, TESSA CORRAL, & MELANIE SILVA

I PRO UNIFORMS TEAM

MARIA ALVAREZ

YIRA ALDAPE, SALLY FRAUSTRO GUERRA, SAMANTHA SAUCEDA, & DR. KIMBERLY SELBER

ROBERTO MARTINEZ, MARCO TORRES, JASON GONZALEZ, VALERIA PEREZ, & ROLANDO AMAYA

www.socialifeRGV.com www.socialifeRGV.com

6127

SOCIALIFEthe thescene scene SOCIALIFE

GRINCH JOINS MONARCH OBSTETRICS AND FAMILY MEDICINE TO SPREAD HOLIDAY CHEER Just before Christmas, Valley physicians gathered for a holiday mixer sponsored by the Monarch Obstetrics and Family Medicine Clinic of Mission. Dr. Hector Munoz and Dr. Miguel Sanchez Rivas, family medicine physicians, and Kane Dawson, CEO of Mission Regional Medical Center, welcomed physicians, community leaders, hospital staff, and other guests, including a very special guest — the grinch! The celebration was held to thank local doctors, hospital leaders, and staff for all they do for our community throughout the year.

As we also prepare for the new year – hopefully a healthy one – it is good to know that there are caring physicians in the community to help us stay healthy and recover from illnesses. The new Monarch Clinic is available to care for the whole family with very little wait time. The clinic is located adjacent to Mission Regional in the Mission Doctors Plaza West building (at 910 S. Bryan Road, Suite 104). For more information, please call 956-591-0890.

6

www.socialifeRGV.com

62

www.socialifeRGV.com

AAF addy gala save the date

www.socialifeRGV.com

63

SOCIALIFEthe thescene scene SOCIALIFE

MONARCH OBSTETRICS OPENS NEW CLINIC On December 28th, the Greater Mission Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon-cutting for a new Monarch Obstetrics and Family Medicine Clinic next to Mission Regional Medical Center (at Mission Doctors Plaza West, 910 S. Bryan Road, Suite 104).

Two experienced, friendly physicians, Dr. Hector Munoz and Dr. Miguel Sanchez Rivas are available to help patients manage diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, asthma, and COPD, as well as weight loss, immunizations, exams, physicals, pap smears, and pregnancy tests. For an appointment, call 956-591-0890

7

www.socialifeRGV.com

64

www.socialifeRGV.com

monarch ad

NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS The doctors and medical providers at Monarch Obstetrics & Family Medicine have each patient’s best interest at the heart of everything they do. They treat every person with the compassionate, quality medical care they deserve. As a full-service medical practice, Monarch makes it simple to get quality care for the whole family.

Our clinic specializes in: - Preventive Medicine - Pregnancy Care - Women’s Health - Diabetes Management - Management of High Blood Pressure - Weight Loss - Sports/College Physicals - Pre-Conception Care - Pap smears - Wellness Exams - Pregnancy Tests - Worker’s Comp

- COPD Treatment - Immunizations - RSV / Flu / Strep Tests - Glucose Checks - Coumadin Checks - Surgical Clearance - EKGs - STD Screenings - Acute and chronic back pain - Trigger point injections - Minor surgical procedures - Hospital Care

Hector Munoz, MD

Miguel A. Sanchez Rivas, MD

CALL OR VISIT TODAY!

Ph: 956-591-0890 Fax: 956-591-0891

Hours of Operation: Monday - Friday | 8:00am - 5:00pm

Doctor’s Plaza West 1st Floor

910 S. Bryan Rd. Suite 104 • Mission, Texas 78572

SOCIALIFE SOCIALIFEthe thescene scene

MISSION PD SPREADS HOLIDAY CHEER On December 22nd, the Christmas spirit was alive and well in the City of Mission for their annual Kops 4 Kids Toy Giveaway. The Mission Police Department and Mission Crime Stoppers teamed up with community sponsors to provide an extra dose of holiday cheer for underprivileged children again this year by distributing more than 2,500 toys. There was also plenty of food, carnival rides, holiday décor, games, and music for the children to enjoy as they waited to receive their gifts.

MAYOR NORI GARZA

4

66

www.socialifeRGV.com www.socialifeRGV.com

EMBROIDERY • PRINTING • SIGNS brandboosters.co (956) 607 7279 301 McColl Rd. Ste. G McAllen, TX. 78501

2 7 th A N N U A L

TOURNAMENT PRESENTED BY

YOU COULD WIN A 2023 LEXUS! PURCHASE

$100

MARCH 4, 2023 PURCHASE

Other prizes are available, don’t miss your chance to win.

YOUR SPONSORSHIP Helps VAMOS Scholarship recipients achieve a post-secondary education.

VAMOSVAMOS Scholarship Scholarship 800 NStMain St #410, 800 N Main #410, McAllen, TX 78501 McAllen, TX 78501

McALLEN’S CHAMPION LAKES GOLF COURSE 2701 S Ware Rd, McAllen, TX 78503

FOR SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES CALL VAMOS AT (956) 800 - 4085

WWW.VAMOSSCHOLARS.ORGO

SOCIALIFE

WHAT THE!~

ETIQUESTIONS Dr. Barbara Baggerly-Hinojosa

I am so excited to start going to social events and galas again. When the food is served, I always wonder what to do when not everyone at my table has a plate of food served yet. Do I wait, or is it ok to start eating?

What a great question! If you are seated at a table with eight or fewer guests, wait until everyone is served and for the hostess to begin eating before you dig in. At a long banquet table, it is ok to start when several people are seated and served.

I always find it rude when people are texting or talking on their phones while we are at the dining table. What is the rule about phone usage when you are seated at a dining table?

Telephone usage is such a part of our lives these days. It is a great idea to text or talk on the phone before you are seated for dinner. Once you are seated at the dining table, put your phone away and return to it once you leave. It is considered rude to talk on the phone or text while at the dining table. If you are in a situation where you need to take a call or text, excuse yourself to go to the bathroom before reaching for your phone. plan accordingly so that they can be present on the big day!

I am always thankful when someone holds the door open for me when I am entering a building.

Is it ok for me (a female) to open the door for someone else?

It does not matter the gender, but whoever arrives first should open the door for the other person. It is always a polite thing to do.

Barbara Baggerly-Hinojosa, Ph.D. is a wife, mother, and educator living in the Rio Grande Valley of Texas. She is a graduate of Our Lady of the Lake University with a Ph.D. in Leadership Studies. In addition, she holds an Associate of Arts degree in Education from McLennan Community College, Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies from the University of Texas – Pan American, and a Master of Arts in Educational Supervision from the University of Texas – Pan American. Dr. Baggerly-Hinojosa’s current research is focused on servant leadership, gender issues in leadership, and leadership communication. www.leadershipempowermentgroup.com

870

SOCIALIFE

WWW.SOCIALIFERGV.COM

Savings at the Symphony this Spring!

Feb

OUT OF THIS WORLD

Mar

CARMEN Y MAS

17

24

A concert for the family with music from The Incredibles and more

Special guests Mariachi Aztlán and the iconic Carmen Suite

April WEST SIDE STORY

21

The American musical blockbuster and soloist Asiya Korepanova

Purchase the entire spring 3-concert series and save!

Beginning January 15, lock in the same seats for every performance and savings of up to 20%.

A limited number of seats are available for spring subscriptions, so act now.

Spring subscriptions start as low as $75!

All performances take place at the McAllen Performing Arts Center and begin at 8:00 pm. www.valleyorchestra.org • (956) 661-1615 SEASON SPONSORS

Mrs. Wanda Boush • Drs. Tawhid and Mihaela Shuaib • The Rea Charitable Trust

SOCIALIFE SOCIALIFE the the scene scene

OFFICIAL COMPREHENSIVE LEVEL I TRAUMA CENTER DESIGNATION In the event of a traumatic event, the people of the Rio Grande Valley can depend on South Texas Health System McAllen to provide the highest level of trauma and critical care following its official designation as a Comprehensive Level I Trauma Center by the Texas Department of State Health Services.

To celebrate the facility’s important milestone, STHS McAllen hosted a special event on the hospital grounds on Thursday, December 8, featuring the participation of hospital administrators and staff, community leaders, first responders, and other dignitaries. The event highlighted STHS McAllen’s ability to provide the most comprehensive trauma and critical care 24 hours a day, seven days a week for every aspect of injury – from prevention and treatment to surgery and rehabilitation.

DR. JOHN W. HOVORKA

ENRIQUE “QUIQUE” RODRÍGUEZ AND TOM CASTAÑEDA

872

www.socialifeRGV.com www.socialifeRGV.com

SOCIALIFE thethescene SOCIALIFE scene

SHARYLAND ISD SPARKLES AT ANNUAL FOUNDATION GALA

Photography By Tania De Luna

On December 10th, the Sharyland community gathered for a record-breaking Denim & Diamonds event hosted by the Sharyland ISD Education Foundation. The funds raised significantly impact Sharyland students, teachers, and the community by providing grants, student and teacher scholarships, teacher and retiree recognitions, and more.

“Our heartfelt thanks to the Sharyland community,” said foundation president Irene Thompson, “for their continued support and for investing in the future. Sharyland Education Foundation continues to be a worthy investment with benefits that have the potential to last a lifetime.”

ANABEL SAENZ, SANDRA HUMPHREY, & IVANNA SAENZ

DR. SYLVIA SOLIS, IRMA GARZA, ROUSE MÁRQUES, & SALLY FRAUSTRO GUERRA

CLARISSA LUNA & DANIEL LUNA

CRISTY GARZA & JORGE GARZA

10

74

www.socialifeRGV.com www.socialifeRGV.com

C.A. HINOJOSA, BARBARA BAGGERLY-HINOJOSA, DR. DAHLIA GUERRA, SALLY FRAUSTRO GUERRA, MYRTHA TIJERINA MIRTA

SOCIALIFEthe thescene scene SOCIALIFE

AUDREY MALDONADO & SAM MALDONADO

GLENDA GAONA & DELFINO GAONA

JAIME ORTEGA & ARACELY ORTEGA

NÉLIDA GARRETT & MIKE GARRETT

OMAR QUINTANILLA & LIDIA QUINTANILLA

MCALLEN MAYOR, JAVIER VILLALOBOS & ANNETTE VILLALOBOS

SHARYLAND SUPERINTENDENT, DR. MARÍA VIDAURRI & ALVIN ALEXIS

www.socialifeRGV.com www.socialifeRGV.com

75

11

Rio Grande City COMMERCIAL & INVESTMENT TOUR

For more information on the RGV Commercial & Investment Tours or Sponsorship Opportunities contact Daniel@rgvpartnership.com

THE GREATER CHAMBER AND CITY OF HARLINGEN ARE GEARING UP FOR THE 88TH LEGISLATIVE SESSION

Great things are happening at the Chamber!

Scan the QR code or visit www.harlingen.com to stay in the loop

SOCIALIFE TRADITIONS

INGREDIENTS Dr. Kelly Nassour

UTRGV Executive Vice President for Institutional Advancement Regional Hospital Medical Center

El Paso Caldillo The El Paso Caldillo is a favorite of mine because it uses Hatch Green Chile, which is a staple in El Paso, my hometown. It always reminds me of home. I used to make it with my beloved granny, who recently passed. I will continue her legacy through our family recipes.

Instructions: Sauté beef and onions in bacon fat. Add tomatoes, chile strips, stocks and seasonings. Cook over low heat until meat is tender. Add cubed potatoes during the last 30 minutes. Caldillo may be frozen after preparation.

3 pounds cubed beef 1 ½ cups diced onion Bacon fat 3 cups tomatoes, diced 1 ½ cups Hatch Green Chile strips (better if not canned) ½ cup beef stock ½ cup chicken stock 2 teaspoons salt 2 teaspoons pepper 2 teaspoons garlic salt 2 teaspoons cumin 2 pounds potatoes cubed

“Mom’s” Turkey Chili This is one of my daughter’s favorite “Mom” dishes. She asks me to make it for her and her friends every time she comes home and has even made it for her friends in her dorm. Its become a true comfort meal in our home. I often make a double batch!

Dr. Kimberly Selber

Managing Editor, SOCIALIFE Associate Professor of Communication, UTRGV

Instructions Heat a large stockpot over medium heat. Add the coconut oil. Add the turkey meat and sear for 1-2 minutes without stirring. Scatter the cilantro, onion, and garlic around the turkey meat and cook for 2-3 more minutes, stirring once or twice to break up the meat. Add the chili powder, cumin, and oregano and stir. Add the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute more, stirring once or twice until the paste becomes fragrant.

Add the chicken broth, the diced tomatoes, zucchini, and kale, and bring to a simmer over medium heat for 20-30 minutes until the meat is cooked and the vegetables are tender.

I use a food processor to chop and slice the vegetables before I start cooking the meat. Can be served with a dollop of sour cream.

Reheats well.

8024

SOCIALIFE www.socialifeRGV.com

INGREDIENTS 2 TBS coconut oil 1 pound lean ground white turkey 1 head fresh cilantro, chopped 1 yellow or red onion, finely chopped 3 garlic cloves, minced 2 TBS chili powder (mild or hot) 2 tsp ground cumin 1 tsp oregano 1 6 oz. can, tomato paste 32 oz. chicken broth 1 15 oz can diced tomatoes 1 zucchini, sliced ½ 1 pd. bag of kale, chopped ¼ cup fresh line juice (about 2 limes)

WWW.SOCIALIFERGV.COM

SOCIALIFE TRADITIONS

Super Easy Venison Chili Recipe I started this family tradition based on what my Dad taught me. He always said, “You’ve got to respect nature, and if you’re going to hunt, you’ve got to eat what you kill!” So I learned how to cook and make venison chile. I’ve been using this super easy recipe for many, many years!

Cris Rivera

CEO, Rio Grande Regional Hospital

Instructions Brown meat in oil of your choice. Add onions and garlic and saute until tender. Add meat, onions, chili powder, cayenne pepper, salt and pepper, masa harina, tomato paste, diced tomatoes, and beans. Stir. Add beef broth as needed depending on how thick you want your chili (you may substitute water or beer for beef broth). Simmer for an hour or more if needed.

Serve with grated cheddar cheese, chives, avocado, and/or sour cream. You can also serve it with hotdogs or enchiladas! This is a very versatile dish!

Enjoy with saltine crackers or cornbread.

INGREDIENTS 1 lb venison chili meat 1 cup diced onions 3 cloves diced garlic 4 tablespoons chili powder 2 tablespoons cayenne pepper (more or less, depending on how spicy you want it) Salt and pepper to taste 2 tablespoons masa harina 1 small can of tomato paste 1 medium can of diced tomatoes (Rotel if you want green chilies) 1 medium can red beans or any kind of beans that you like (beans are optional) Beef broth, water or beer (amount depends on how thick you want your chili

The Breakfast Cake Growing up in 4-H, I was exposed to many opportunities and was blessed to be part of many projects, such as agriculture, shooting sports, arts/crafts, and, of course, cooking. With our cooking projects, we had to use our imagination to deliver a unique and delicious dish for the 4-H Food Show competition. With my mother supervising, we brought home a blue ribbon for our Breakfast Cake. I always knew breakfast was the most important meal of the day, but hey, so is cake! And so the Breakfast Cake was born and has now become a holiday favorite in my family.

Instructions: Make sure to preheat your oven to 350 while you prepare your dish. Cook the sausage roll on high heat and constantly keep breaking it apart. You want to keep turning it and chop it up into little chunks until fully cooked. After, you want to drain it to prepare for your next steps. Next, beat the 3 eggs. Place them in a medium bowl, and whisk until the yolk and whites are combined. Take 1 can of the buttermilk biscuits. Open and place each raw biscuit on the bottom of the pan squeezing all 8 into one lower layer. Then spread all the cooked sausage over the lower layer of biscuits. Then I take the eggs and carefully pour the egg mixture over the sausage around the pan. I then spread the cheese evenly over all the ingredients around the pan. Take your second can of the buttermilk biscuits. Open and place each raw biscuit on top of all the ingredients making the top layer in the pan. Trust me; they will connect. You are now ready to place your pan into the preheated oven at 350 for 30 - 35 minutes, depending on your oven. Take your golden brown dish and let it rest for 10 minutes. It's now time to flip and serve. The breakfast cake serves well with jam or salsa for a unique easy breakfast.

WWW.SOCIALIFERGV.COM

Ronnie Larralde

Executive Director, Edinburg Chamber of Commerce

INGREDIENTS 1 - 16 oz Pork Sausage Roll 3- Eggs 1 cup of Mexican Blend Cheese 2- 8ct 16.3oz buttermilk biscuits 1- Standard Bunt Cake Pan Prep Time: 20 minutes Cook Time: 30 minutes

SOCIALIFE 25 81 www.socialifeRGV.com

SOCIALIFE the SOCIALIFE the scene scene

IT GOT UGLY AT THE RGVHCC HOLIDAY MIXER On December 5th, the RGV Hispanic Chamber of Commerce held its Ugly Christmas Sweater Mixer and celebrated their 25th Anniversary at the Legacy Chapels in Edinburg. Every year the RGVHCC collects toys for Sara’s Hope Foundation with the help of their members; this holiday, the RGVHCC collected over 100 toys to be donated! Thank You to the RGVHCC membership for supporting the RGV Hispanic Chamber for 25 years, and thank you to the event sponsors; Sierra Title, Costa Messa Restaurant, and Kolache Factory.

Do you want to join one of the largest professional networking groups in the Rio Grande Valley? Contact Memberships Director Cissy Saenz at cissy@rgvhcc.com or call 956-928-0060

1682

www.socialifeRGV.com www.socialifeRGV.com

#embraceequity

HATS OFF TO

"WOMEN OF DISTINCTION" Awards dinner & Expo

March 8, 2023 Mission event center 200 n. shary rd mISSION, tx

Health

Dr. Ashley Bose

Entrepreneur

Michelle Franco-Mar

Arts & Entertainment

Leticia Leija

Education

Government

Maria Leonard

Gabriela Rodriguez

Professional

Rising Star

Aisha Gonzalez

Humanitarian

Della Fay Rose Rodriguez

Iliana Villalobos

military

Lupita Maciel-Perez

Tickets $50 |Reserved Table of 8 $600 Contact event director ciSSY sAENZ FOR RESERVED TABLES & sponsorship Information 956-928-0060 | cissy@rgvhcc.com | www.rgvhcc.org

SAVE THE DATE

NON-PROFIT SPOT LIGHT

Since 1988, Habitat for Humanity of the Rio Grande Valley has been dedicated to the ideal that all people deserve to own a home that is both comfortable and affordable. Working in partnership with God, Habitat changes lives by enabling people who live in substandard housing to become responsible homeowners. Habitat is accountable for constructing more than 100 houses throughout the Valley and offers a “hand up,” not a “hand out,” to less fortunate families from our four-county region. Family partners must be hard-working, low-income residents that may not be able to qualify for a traditional mortgage. As part of their commitment, future Habitat for Humanity homeowners commit to completing 300 hours of sweat equity towards the construction of their own homes.

We are proud of our RGV Habitat families' dedicated efforts and the support of our community partners, generous donors, and helpful volunteers. At Habitat for Humanity of the Rio Grande Valley, we offer several opportunities to build or repair homes with and for U.S. Veterans, families, and senior citizens throughout the year.

86

www.socialifeRGV.com

Additionally, we have volunteer work opportunities available year-round at our local Habitat ReStores in McAllen and Harlingen, Texas. Habitat ReStores are home improvement stores that accept small and large donations of new or gently used furniture, appliances, housewares, building materials, and more. You can always donate goods in person or request a free pickup of large items. Priority pick-up options are also an option via our website. Proceeds from the sales of these donated items help fund Habitat’s mission in our local RGV community.

By volunteering with or donating to Rio Grande Valley Habitat for Humanity, you can give back to our local community and help us continue to build a world where everyone has a decent place to live.

412 Ash Ave., McAllen, TX, 78501 956-686-7455 habitatrgv.org Facebook | Habitatrgv Instagram | habitatrgv20

SOCIALIFE RGV HISTORY

the

josé cisneros COLLECTION

by Tom Fort, Museum of South Texas History, Curator of Cisneros Exhibit

A

rmed with pens, ink, and colored pencils, plus a gifted natural eye for his subjects, a remarkable artist named José Cisneros captured centuries of life in the borderlands—those thousands of rugged square miles sprawling on either side of the present United States and Mexico boundary.

Through his artwork, Cisneros created a unique legacy of handmade images depicting the people who interacted with, explored, colonized, fought for, and settled a rugged and often unforgiving land. His subjects, mostly anonymous, are in keeping with his view that generations of ordinary people—their names often forgotten today—were the true makers of the borderlands’ immense, diverse heritage.

Born in 1910 near Durango, Mexico, Cisneros’ career spanned more than seven decades, mostly in his adopted city of El Paso, Texas, where he passed away in 2009. His illustrations reflect a range of historiographical perspectives. An example is “Riders of the Borderlands,” a series of lively penand-ink depictions of horse and mule riders from Spanish conquistadores to

88

www.socialifeRGV.com

the 1960s. Published by Texas Western Press in 1970, it was this slender volume, with the artist’s descriptions of his subjects, that prompted the Hidalgo County Historical Museum— now the Museum of South Texas History—to contact the artist in 1980 and commission him to do an illustration for new exhibits about regional history. The result was Vaquero de Nuevo Santander – c.

1750, portraying a nameless working cowman of the colonial era on horseback. From the broad-brimmed hat to the ornate cross-stirrups, this iconic figure conveys the Spanish roots of ranching in northeastern Mexico and South Texas.

The museum commissioned two more individual works from Cisneros: Don José de Escandón, colonizer of Nuevo Santander (1981), and a war-weary former Confederate soldier about to start ranching in the post-Civil War Valley (The New Beginning, 1984).

Later the museum asked Cisneros about creating an entire series of illustrations depicting the varied history of this region through the centuries. The artist agreed, and in 1986 the museum opened “Images

Through the Centuries” with Cisneros and his wife Vicenta as guests. A follow-up series commissioned in the 1990s covered additional subjects.

In 1998 a complete exhibition of the entire collection opened in the Main Gallery (now the River Crossroads exhibit area), accompanied by the new book catalog, “Borderlands: The Heritage of the Lower Rio Grande Through the Art of José Cisneros,” published by the museum. Along with the framed works, the museum included displays of artifacts relating to the eras and subjects depicted.

Currently, the Borderlands series is on view in the 1910 Jail Cell Block Gallery, which closes in June 2023.

It is one of the most treasured of the museum’s collections. Today, looking back more than 40 years, this writer recalls the unique privilege of becoming acquainted with Cisneros and being the staff member who not only suggested subjects for the illustrations but also provided historical information and reference pictures to him. Quiet and modest, he was a true son of the borderlands.

www.Ambiancemcallen.com | (956)731-9370 |

@Ambiance.flowersrentals |

@Ambiance.McAllen

SOCIALIFE

OUT AND ABOUT

grab and go...

Build A Prep 2260 S. Closner Blvd., Edinburg (956) 609-9353

1310 W. Pike Blvd., Weslaco (956) 405-3025

901 Travis St., Ste #13, Mission (956) 600-8156

h t l a e ...h

Fork to Fit Kitchen 508 W. Trenton Rd., Ste C, Edinburg (956) 513-1649

7001 N. 10th St., Ste A2, McAllen (956) 627-3284

1424 E. Ridge Rd., Ste 4, McAllen (956) 800-4964

801 N. Shary Rd., Ste 110, Mission (956) 766-7327

Fit Kitchen 3101 Pablo Kisel Blvd., Ste A-3, Brownsville (956) 620-3250

490

SOCIALIFE

WWW.SOCIALIFERGV.COM

g n i t a e y h

Lean Lifestyles 6100 N. 10th St., Ste E, McAllen (956) 800-4336

Good Eats Healthy Meals 74 S. Price Rd., Ste #10, Brownsville (956) 312-0907 1237 N. 77 Sunshine Strip, Harlingen (956) 564-0903

Meal Preps To Go 3119 S.Closner Blvd., Edinburg (956) 429-7033 305 W. Nolana Ave., McAllen (956) 331-6718

WWW.SOCIALIFERGV.COM

SOCIALIFE

915

SOCIALIFE the scene SOCIALIFE the scene

ILLUMINA FEST CELEBRATES THE LIGHT OF THE WORLD

Photography by Tiffany Miranda

For the past ten thousand years, people across cultures have celebrated light during the winter season. In December, Quinta Mazatlan honored this tradition with their fourth annual ILLUMINA Fest celebrating the light of the world. Guests enjoyed over thirty art and light installations along the trail through the woods. Strolling through the Luminaria Trail with over 3,000 luminarias, the beautiful Ebony Trees, Mesquites, Anacauas, and Sabal Palms—our native valley trees—were spectacularly on display. The outdoor exhibits honored Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, Lunar New Year, Diwali, Native American Traditions, and Nature at Night. The ILLUMINA Fest stage featured many performers sharing their light, including fire shows, aerialists, dancers, mariachi groups, choirs, and more.

92 12

www.socialifeRGV.com www.socialifeRGV.com

SOCIALIFE the scene SOCIALIFE the scene

www.socialifeRGV.com www.socialifeRGV.com

93 13

SAVE THE MONARCHS • SAVE THE DATE

SATURDAY

APRIL 1 9am - 2pm • Mayor’s Bug Parade • Fun Educational Crafts • Scout Badge Activities

• Live Music & Food • Dance Performances • Native Plant Sales

and

G WIN

S

HAPPY NEW YEAR

www.socialifeRGV.com

95

96

www.socialifeRGV.com

SOCIALIFE SOCIALIFE the the scene scene

VALLEY SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA “DECKED THE PALMS” WITH SOUTH PADRE ISLAND CONCERT Photography by Michael Sulartz On December 9, the Valley Symphony Orchestra performed as part of the “Deck the Palms” holiday festival at South Padre Island. The Brass Quintet performed favorite holiday tunes such as “Sleigh Ride” and “Feliz Navidad,” and the 60-member VSO Chorale followed with a program that included Mariah Carey’s “All I Want for Christmas” and traditional carols. The program was presented with support from the Cameron County Amphitheatre and the VSO’s many sponsors and donors.

RAUL GARZA, SALLY FRAUSTRO GUERRA, ROY RODRIGUEZ

98

www.socialifeRGV.com

www.socialifeRGV.com

17

LOOKING FOR A LO V I N G H O M E S H E LT E R

O F

T H E

M O N T H

Yaqui Animal Rescue Visit these adoptable pets and others at Yaqui Animal Rescue 500 Venecia Dr, Sullivan City, TX 78595 (By Appointment Only) • (956) 600-4212

LILY: My name is Lily, and I'm a lazy girl looking for my forever home. I've been at the shelter since 2015 and am ready to find my special someone. I'm not one for a lot of activity; I prefer to hang out and relax. If you're looking for a chill companion to lounge with, I'm your girl.

REX: Hey there, my name is Rex, and I'm an active and energetic boy looking for my forever home. Despite my age, I still have a lot of energy, and I'm always up for a game of fetch. If you're looking for a running partner, look no further because I'm your guy!

But don't let my laid-back attitude fool you; I love attention and affection. I'll be your loyal companion and will always be by your side. I would prefer to be the only girl in your life, as I want all of your love and attention for myself.

I'm a very big boy, so I'll need a lot of space to run around and play. I'm looking for someone who can give me all the love and attention I need and keep up with my active lifestyle. If you're the one for me, contact Yaqui. I can't wait to meet you and start our new adventure together!

WINSTON: Hello, my name is Winston, and I'm a sweet, older boy looking for my forever home. I may be a bit older, but I still have a lot of love to give. I'm a very calm and gentle dog, and I enjoy nothing more than spending time with my human companion.

CHOCO: Hi there! My name is Choco, and I'm a friendly and loving boy looking for my forever home. I love people, and I'm great with other dogs, so if you have other furry friends, I'll get along with them just fine.

I would make an excellent pet for children or a companion for an older person.

I'm very patient, and I love to be around people. I'm also very low maintenance, and I don't require a lot of exercise or training. I just want to be by your side and be your loyal companion.

100

WWW.SOCIALIFERGV.COM

I'm a good boy with a lot of energy, and I love to play and be active. I'm very smart and eager to please, so I'll be easy to train and quickly become a well-behaved member of your family. I'm a very affectionate and loving dog, and I'll be your loyal companion for life.

WWW.SOCIALIFERGV.COM

63

SOCIALIFE

PET LIFE

WHEN YOUR RUNNING BUDDY HAS FOUR FEET

By Dr. Ruben Castro

It’s a new year and with a new year comes new hopes and dreams. For many people, that means it’s time to make resolutions. According to a Forbes health online poll, the most common new year’s resolutions are improving fitness (39%) and losing weight (37%). For some pet owners, this is an opportunity for them to have their fur baby be a part of their new fitness goals. Many people begin a walking or running routine to accomplish this. However, not all dog breeds are built for walking long distances or running.

Here are some essential things to keep in mind if you have made a new year’s resolution to lose weight by walking, jogging, or running with your fur baby:

1 2

3 4

5

Puppies aged 18 months or younger are still maturing, which means that their bones and muscles are not ready for the demands of strenuous exercise. Putting heavy miles on your puppy could cause permanent damage to its developing body.

During your dog’s first time with you, starting them off slowly is a great idea. It would be best if you first got them used to walking and running by your side. Slowly but surely, increase your speed and distance. Build up your dog’s endurance and stamina so that he or she can go the distance you will be going.

Socialize your dog. This will prevent your dog from getting distracted when you are out on a run, and other people and/ or dogs are around you. A distracted dog can cause major problems for you, and your walk or run will not be enjoyable.

Be mindful of the temperature outside and on the pavement.

Physical activity outside with your dog should be safe and since the weather in the RGV is mostly warm, sticking to the early morning or late evening hours is your best bet. Remember, dogs cannot cope that well with heat due to their reduced number of sweat glands.

Just like we choose running shoes to make our walking or running easier, think about your dog’s paws. The more cushioned the ground, the better for them. Dogs’ paws can become sore when they walk or run on the hot asphalt.

Here are the breeds that are perfect to have as running partners:

• • • • • • • • • •

Weimaraner – this breed tends to be high-energy, active, and intelligent Dalmatian – this breed is strong, active, athletic, and has great stamina Vizsla – this breed is high-energy and has great stamina German Shorthaired Pointer – this breed is energetic, fast, and can withstand a high-mileage run Rhodesian Ridgeback – this breed is athletic, powerful, and loves to run English Springer Spaniel – this breed tends to love exercise Doberman Pinscher – this breed is fast, lean, muscular, and loves to run American Foxhound – this breed is usually energetic and loves to exercise Saluki – this breed is thin, but it is one of the fastest breeds in the world Belgian Malinois – this breed is a working breed and has the capability to run long distances

Certain dog breeds are a huge no-no to have as running partners. These breeds are the Pug, British Bulldog, and French Bulldog. They all have very short muzzles, which limits their breathing, and their bodies have difficulty cooling down when the weather is warm.

For the most part, despite your dog’s breed and size, it should still get some exercise. As long as you use common sense and know the type of dog you have, you and your dog can enjoy some type of physical activity, even if it is indoors.

Dr. Castro is a proud Catholic who is a husband, father, and educator born and raised in the RGV. He is a graduate of Northcentral University with a doctorate in Education with a specialization in Educational Leadership. He also holds a Master of Science in Sociology from the University of Texas-Pan American and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology, with a minor in Psychology from the University of Texas-Pan American. Dr. Castro’s current research focuses on Education, Crime and Deviance, and Race and Ethnicity. He is also the owner of the K&B Dog Learning Cener, Inc. www.kbdoglearningcenter.com

WWW.SOCIALIFERGV.COM

SOCIALIFE 1019

THE GLOBAL LUXURY DIFFERENCE Decade after decade, the Coldwell Banker Global Luxury® Program has endured as “Best in Class” by leveraging innovation, technology, and the expertise of Luxury Property Specialists stationed all over the globe. The Coldwell Banker Global Luxury program sets the gold standard for modern luxury real estate marketing, continuing a legacy established by the Coldwell Banker® brand in 1906.

Today the iconic Coldwell Banker brand is synonymous with a gold standard of service, cementing its status as a premier real estate authority for present and future generations of discerning buyers and sellers everywhere.

Coldwell Banker Global Luxury Property Specialists are an exclusive group within the Coldwell Banker organization, making up under ten percent of independent sales associates affiliated with the brand worldwide.

Congratulations on obtaining certifications from The Institute for Luxury Home Marketing & Coldwell Banker Global Luxury Program and becoming La Mansion’s first Luxury Property Specialists

102

www.socialifeRGV.com

Sally Fraustro Guerra

Louie Yzaquirre

ASSOCIATE BROKER

REALTOR

(956) 458-0085

(956) 207-9393

19th ANNUAL STATE OF REAL ESTATE FORUM Featuring: Dr. Ted C. Jones, Ph.D. Guest Speaker: Keith A. Patridge, President & C.E.O

Dr. TTed D dC C. JJones, Ph Ph.D. D Chief Economist | Sr. Vice President Director of Investor Relations Stewart Title Guaranty Company

Keith K i hA A. PPatridge id President & C.E.O. McAllen Economic Development Corporation & McAllen Foreign Trade Zone

Thursday, March 2, 2023

8:30 am 9:00-11:00 am

Registration & Continental Breakfast State of Real Estate Forum

McAllen Convention Center | 700 Convention Blvd There is no cost to attend, however, reservations are required.

For more details, please contact: Elva Jackson Garza, Vice President/Marketing Manager at: elva.garza@edwardsabstract.com or 956-292-7218.

Registration Deadline | Friday, February 24th

8 Full Service Locations

Brownsville

1075 Paredes Line Road Brownsville,TX 78521-2696 956-542-6777 956-544-0592 (Fax) brownsville@edwardsabstract.com

McAllen

4228 N. McColl Road McAllen, TX 78504 956-682-4951 956-631-3504 (Fax) mcallen@edwardsabstract.com

Brownsville

Edinburg

1650 Paredes Line Road Ste. 102 Brownsville,TX 78521-2696 956-849-6777 956-542-4320 (Fax) brownsville2@edwardsabstract.com

3111 W. Freddy Gonzalez Drive Edinburg, TX 78539 956-383-4951 956-383-5443 (Fax) edinburg@edwardsabstract.com

Mission

South Padre Island

2506 E. Griffin Parkway Mission, Texas 78572 (956) 583-1220 (956) 289-4344 (Fax) mission@edwardsabstract.com

2009 Padre Blvd South Padre Island, TX 78597 956-761-6777 956-761-4613 (Fax) southpadreisland@edwardsabstract.com

Harlingen

222 E. Van Buren St., Suite 101 Harlingen, TX 78550-6804 956-425-6777 956-412-1235 (Fax) harlingen@edwardsabstract.com

Weslaco

107 W. 6th Street Weslaco, Texas 78596 (956) 854-4333 (956) 289-4343 (Fax) weslaco@edwardsabstract.com

Ask us about Remote Online Notary Services | www.edwardsabstract.com 104

www.socialifeRGV.com

LANDLORD REPRESENTATION TENANT REPRESENTATION INVESTMENT SERVICES RETAIL SERVICES OFFICE SERVICES INDUSTRIAL SERVICES PROPERTY MANAGEMENT DEVELOPMENT LAND SERVICES MULTI-FAMILY SERVICES RANCHES

508 E. Dove Ave. McAllen, TX 78504

(956) 631-1322 www.CBCRioGrandeValley.com

www.socialifeRGV.com

105

November - January 12

January 28-29

January 5

February 4

Beyond Van Gogh Immersive experience McAllen Convention Center 88th Legislative Session Send-off Reception RGV Hispanic Chamber of Commerce & RGV Partnership UTRGV Center for Innovation and Commercialization, Weslaco 5 - 7 PM SL

January 17

Small has Never Been so Big American Advertising Federation - AAF Embassy Suites McAllen Convention Center 11:30 AM - 1 PM SL

January 19

Buenas Tardes Luncheon Greater Mission Chamber of Commerce Mission Event Center 11:30 AM SL

January 20

Fashion Show Extravaganza Debi Lou Modeling Academy Gelman Stained Glass Museum, San Juan 7 PM SL

January 21

10th Year Anniversary Scott Crane Run City of McAllen McAllen

January 26-29

23rd Legislative Tour of the Rio Grande Valley RGV Partnership 106

www.socialifeRGV.com

Texas Citrus Festival City of Mission Cowboy Up Boys and Girls Club of Edinburg Rancho Guadalupe, Edinburg 6 PM SL

February 6

Manic Monday Mixer RGV Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Main Event, Pharr 5:30 - 7:30 PM

February 7

Superheroes McAllen Wind Ensemble McAllen Performing Arts Center 7:30 PM

February 17

Out of this World Valley Symphony Orchestra McAllen Performing Arts Center 8 PM SL

February 18

Puppy Love Palm Valley Animal Society McAllen Convention Center SL American Advertising Awards “Beach Ball” American Advertising Federation - RGV Courtyard Marriott, South Padre Island 7 PM SL

February 24

Annual Farm Dinner Food Bank of the Rio Grande Valley Food Bank RGV, Pharr 6 - 9:30 PM SL

February 25

Throw Back for the Future 2023 Gala Boys and Girls Club of McAllen McAllen Convention Center 6 PM SL

March 2-5

Fiesta Edinburg Edinburg Chamber of Commerce

March 2

19th Annual State of Real Estate Forum Edwards Abstract and Title Co. McAllen Convention Center 8:30 AM

March 3

BRAVO! VSO Gala Valley Symphony Orchestra McAllen Convention Center SL

March 4

27th Annual VAMOS Golf Tournament McAllen Champion Lakes Golf Course SL

March 6

Manic Monday Mixer RGV Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Tony’s Grill, Weslaco 5:30 - 7:30 PM

IF IT’S NOT HERE, IT’S NOT HAPPENING… Send us your event: admin@socialifergv.com

March 8

Hats off to “Women of Distinction” Awards Dinner RGV Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Mission Event Center 5:30 - 8 PM SL

March 9

City of Edinburg 2023 State of the City City of Edinburg Edinburg Conference Center at Renaissance 6 PM SL

April 1

May 1

April 2

May 2

McAllen Monarch Festival Quinta Mazatlan Quinta Mazatlan, McAllen 9 AM - 2 PM Memories McAllen Wind Ensemble McAllen Performing Arts Center 2 PM

April 3

The RGV Jalapeño Amateur Championship RGV Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Tierra Santa Golf Club SL

Manic Monday Mixer RGV Hispanic Chamber of Commerce La Bahia Restaurant, McAllen 5:30 - 7:30 PM

March 24

April 13

March 24-26

Santa Fe Wine Classic Santa Fe Steakhouse & Cantina Quinta Mazatlan, McAllen 6:30 - 10:30 PM SL Carmen y Mas Valley Symphony Orchestra McAllen Performing Arts Center 8 PM SL

South Texas Senior Summit: Cameron County RGV Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Harlingen Convention Center 9 AM - 3 PM

April 15

Night at the Brewseum International Museum of Art & Science SL

March 25

April 20

March 31

April 21

Heritage Ranch Gala Museum of South Texas History 6:30 PM SL Honor Roll Gala 2022 Teach For America Mission Event Center 6:30 PM SL

Moon Over Mazatlan 2023 Quinta Mazatlan, McAllen 6:30 - 11 PM SL

Manic Monday Mixer RGV Hispanic Chamber of Commerce HW Seafood Steakhouse, Edinburg 5:30 - 7:30 PM 13th Annual “Night at the Races” C.A.M.P. University

May 6

Make-A-Wish Foundation Gala McAllen Convention Center SL

June 5

Manic Monday Mixer RGV Hispanic Chamber of Commerce 5:30 - 7:30 PM

June 21

Celebrate Summer Solstice Quinta Mazatlan, McAllen Quinta Mazatlan

June 22

South Texas Senior Summit: Hidalgo County RGV Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Hacienda San Juan 9 AM - 3 PM

West Side Story Valley Symphony Orchestra McAllen Performing Arts Center 8 PM SL

SL Event Sponsored by SOCIALIFE Magazine

www.socialifeRGV.com

107

There is no substitute for experience.

The team at Decibel Communications has a proven track record of providing just-in-time marketing and communication solutions across the country and locally in the RGV for over 20 years.

If you need to make an adjustment in marketing strategy and execution, we can help.

MESSAGE STRATEGY + DEVELOPMENT DIGITAL MEDIA

TV

RADIO

SOCIAL MEDIA

VIDEO

REMOTE/CONTACTLESS FILMING SOLUTIONS ALREADY IN USE

full-service marketing agency

108

www.socialifeRGV.com

www.decibel.rocks (956) 792-9993

WEB

www.socialifeRGV.com

109

110

www.socialifeRGV.com

www.socialifeRGV.com

111