SOCIALIFE MAY 2019

HIDALGO CO. EDITION YEAR 15 ISSUE 5

p.18

Taste McAllen

2019

p.26

p.48

p.68

Moon Over Mazatlan Fiesta

IDEA Public Schools

Inside the Kitchen Mori

THE

CHANGEMAKERS

RGV-Based IDEA Public Schools Goes Nationwide

956.994.0970

BOLD GOLD COLLECTION

Santa Fe Steakhouse & Cantina weekend Anniversary. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 McAllen ISD Fishing for Kids. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 McAllen Mayor’s Prayer Luncheon. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

SALLY FRAUSTRO GUERRA PRESIDENT + PUBLISHER

Women in Medicine Mixer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 MCC - Presidents’ Golf Tournament. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Zonta Annual Shining Stars Dinner. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 2019 Taste McAllen. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Hidalgo County Census Update. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Bob’s Steak & Chop Roca Patron Tequila Dinner. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Moon Over Mazatlan - Fiesta. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Edinburg CISD Superintendent’s Scholarship Golf Classic. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32

BRONSON DELRIO

VICE PRESIDENT + PUBLISHER

GMCC - Buenas Tardes Luncheon. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 Non-Profit Spotlight: RGV Literacy Center. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 Vantage Mortgage Ribbon Cutting. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 Carats - Matthew Campbell Laurenza Trunk Show. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 STARS - 2019 Extravaganza. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 IMAS - 11th Annual Night at the Brew-seum. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46 IDEA - The Changemakers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 Bob’s Steak & Chop Alpha Omega Wine Dinner. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50 Memorial Funeral Home. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52

KARLA KERNZ EDITOR

Ameriprise. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55 Etiquestions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56 MOST History: El Plan de San Diego, Part 4. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62 Victory Cup. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64 Inside the Kitchen: Chef Mori Robata. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68 RGV HCC Manic Monday Mixer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74 Allie Gonzalez Goes to Miss USA. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76 VSO - The 3B’s: Beatles, Brahms & Beethoven. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78

CHRISTINA BARRERA SALES COORDINATOR

Quinta Mazatlan: Hope is a Thing of Feathers-The Gray Hawk. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80 CJS 5K Bunnydash. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82 Valley Land Title 100th Anniversary. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84 Real Estate. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86 Vipers Championship Celebration. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90 Calendar of Events. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92

CLIFF RANSON

PHOTOGRAPHY DIRECTOR

Design

Event Photographers

Decibel Communications

Guest Photographers

Guest Writers

Quinta Mazatlan Silver Salas Juan Rodriguez Christian Moller

4

SOCIALIFE

Sergio Arratia Anai Noyola Dustin Coronado Victoria Gaytan

Leticia Leal Jane Smith Tom Fort Dr. Barbara Baggerly-Hinojosa Susana Maddrigal Diana Garza-Farias Ciara Perez

ON THE COVER: Checking out Cliff Ranson’s awesome photos!

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.

Socialife is printed in Mexico Please recycle this magazine!

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SANTA FE STEAKHOUSE & CANTINA CHEERS TO 25 YEARS! McAllen Photography by Sergio Arratia

MARK AND BRANDI VOSS

JOHN DAVID FRANZ, ANNETTE FRANZ, VELMA DE LEON, AND LEON DE LEON

6

SOCIALIFE

The only thing more legendary than the Silver Oak name is Silver Oak Wine and the Santa Fe Steakhouse’s 25th Anniversary Celebration! In the theme of “choose one thing and do it well,” Silver Oak, a family-owned California winery, has been dedicated to the exclusive pursuit of exceptional Cabernet Sauvignon since 1972, so who better to toast Santa Fe Steakhouse’s silver anniversary than with Silver Oak & Twomey. They are one of a few in a sea of wineries that’s truly achieved cult status for its Cabernet Sauvignon production and occupies an “important niche in California’s wine industry”-- not unlike the Santa Fe Steakhouse & Cantina which has continuously distinguished themselves as a cut above any other fine dining steakhouse in the Valley. Nothing could be more perfectly paired for the Santa Fe Steakhouse’s 25th Year Anniversary Celebration.

CATHRYN AND CHRIS WATSON

TONY AND JERRY TALBOTT

ALEXANDRA AND GUILLERMO PEREZ

GISELLE MASCARENHAS-VILLARREAL AND SARAH HAMMOND

FRED HARMS, ALBERT REGO, ESTHER HARMS, AND SONY REGO

WWW.SOCIALIFERGV.COM

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SOCIALIFE

7

2019 MCALLEN ISD FISHING FOR KIDS

South Padre Island Photography by Juan Rodriguez

The McAllen ISD Second Annual Superintendent’s “Fishing For Kids” Tournament at Louie’s Backyard was a blast! Nearly 250 anglers competed for cash and prizes while raising money for scholarships.

Conducted in partnership with the McAllen Education Foundation and the STARS Scholarship Fund, they were able to raise approximately $61,000 in scholarships! That brings their twoyear total to $104,000!

They appreciate their sponsors and send a big “Thank You” to their staff, our community and their Board of Trustees for helping make this a successful event.

8

SOCIALIFE

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MCALLEN MAYOR’S PRAYER LUNCHEON 2019 McAllen Photography by Sergio Arratia

The 48th Annual McAllen Mayor’s Prayer Luncheon was held this past April at the McAllen Convention Center. This year’s keynote speaker was Jonathan Evans, a mentor, author, speaker and former NFL fullback.

The MMP Committee is a faith-based organization whose membership is comprised of a diverse group of business professionals and volunteers from McAllen, from different faith groups.

SONY REGO, ALBERT REGO, AND LAURA GUTIERREZ

CITY OF MCALLEN MAYOR JIM DARLING

BEVERLY AND J J AVILA

10

SOCIALIFE

WWW.SOCIALIFERGV.COM

I know a place to fly non-stop for those who dream non-stop.

I know the McAllen International Airport.

It is the valley's favorite airport with more direct flights to premiere destinations such as Las Vegas, Los Angeles, and Orlando.

Fly directly from McAllen International Airport through Allegiant so you'll be the one who knows a place.

www.AllegiantAir.com

Daily Flights

Flights from June to August McAllenAirport.com 2500 S Bicentennial Blvd McAllen, Texas 78503 (956) 681-1500

Flights from May to August Follow us @McAllenAirport

WOMEN IN MEDICINE

The Women in Medicine event is a bi-annual networking event that is sponsored by the Hidalgo-Starr County Medical Society and took place at the North Park Lexus of the Rio Grande Valley. This event fosters a place for medical students, resident physicians and practicing physicians to network and develop strong, collegial relationships and a platform for professional communication.

San Juan Photography by Dustin Coronado

DR. SANDRA ESQUIVEL AND DR. CERA KROENKE

DR. LAURA GEPHART AND DR. SANDRA ESQUIVEL

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SOCIALIFE

BLANCA CHOW, DR. LINDA VILLARREAL, DR. SANDRA ESQUIVEL, AND DORIZ LOPEZ

DR. MARTHA CANO AND RACHEL GREGE

AMELIA MORA, MIRIAM NARANJO, AND CAROLINA GOMEZ

ZORALY RAMOS, DR. PATRICIA FERNANDEZ, AND SONJA FALCON

DR. AYDA GARZA MONTALVO, DR. DANIELLE JIMENEZ-FLORES, DR. BOSE OGUNLANA, AND CRISTELLA HERNANDEZ

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A better picture of health, throughout your life.

Nationally Recognized Care. Close to Home.

Look to the Women’s Imaging Center of Rio Grande Regional Hospital for your next mammogram, ultrasound or bone density test. Using the most advanced technology in a comfortable setting, our radiologists are certified by the American Board of Radiology and trained to care for and advise you throughout your screening process.

Rio Grande Imaging Center

101B E. Ridge Rd., McAllen, TX 78503

To schedule your appointment, call (956) 632-6700 or visit RioHealth.com

956.632.6700

RioHealth.com

100 Top Hospitals is a registered trademark of IBM Watson Health

ANNUAL PRESIDENT’S CUP GOLF TOURNAMENT McAllen Photography by Sergio Arratia

The McAllen Chamber of Commerce XXXXXXXXXXX geared up for its 19th annual President’s Cup Golf Tournament last April at Palm View Golf Course. The event was sponsored by Boggus Ford Lincoln McAllen, and it consisted of an 18 hole, 3-player-team Florida Scramble with a starting field limited to forty-four teams who will be competing for the #1 spot. Door prizes were raffled and dinner served to all the participants during the awards presentation that followed the tournament.

MAYOR JIM DARLING, JUDGE RUDY GONZALES, AND MARTIN MCDONALD

ANDY MARROQUIN AND RAM GONZALES

14

SOCIALIFE

JEANETTE NOENE AND CONNIE HERNADEZ

WWW.SOCIALIFERGV.COM

Uniendo.

Sirviendo.

Transformando.

1

in Texas for awarding the most undergraduate degrees to Hispanics.

1

in Texas for awarding the most graduate degrees to Hispanics.

1

in Texas for awarding the most biology and biomedical sciences bachelor’s degrees to Hispanics.

1

in Texas for the performance of our first-generation students.

1

in Texas for social mobility.

1

in Texas for Hispanic enrollment.

st st st st st st

Marco Antonio Quiroz UTRGV Ballet FolklĂłrico

UTRGV.edu

ZONTA CLUB ANNUAL SHINING STARS DINNER McAllen Photography by Sergio Arratia

The Zonta Club of West Hidalgo County celebrated their 26th Annual Shining Stars Dinner at the McAllen Country Club this past April 23rd. This year’s honorees were Evelyn Cano, Melissa Mikulik, and Sister Norma Pimentel. Zonta International is a global organization of executives and professionals working together to improve the lives of women and girls, envisioning a world in which women’s rights are recognized as human rights and every woman is able to achieve her full potential. In such a world, no woman lives in fear of violence.

EVELYN CANO, SISTER NORMA PIMENTEL, AND MELISSA MIKULIK

JOHN DAVID FRANZ, DORA BROWN, ALBERT REGO, SONY REGO, AND SALLY FRAUSTRO GUERRA

ROSIE LONGORIA, KAY JANCIK, AND ANN WILLIAMS

HILDA GARZA DESHAZO, BARBARA O’RILEY, AND RICK O’RILEY

YOLANDA AND CAYETANO BARRERA

CRAMER MILLER, GENE MIKULIK, AND MARK VOSS

16

SOCIALIFE

WWW.SOCIALIFERGV.COM

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Now until December 31, 2019 get a chance to be surprised with a $1,000 Mastercard Prepaid® card every time you make a purchase with your Rio Bank Mastercard.

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2019 TASTE MCALLEN McAllen Photography by Sergio Arratia

Taste McAllen, RGV’s prime food tasting event, returned this year to celebrate McAllen metro’s top chefs and restaurants, gathered at McAllen Convention Center’s Oval Park. It was an evening of awe-inspiring cuisine with chefs and restaurants showcasing their culinary techniques. Two musical stages with various performances took place that evening to delight event guests. This year Taste McAllen came with the Grand Tasting, a fun and unique way to sample an exclusive collection of spirits, liquor, wine, and craft beer. Also, a VIP corner was available for those attendees looking for a more personal setting, with a beautifully decorated area that included a champagne and bubbles bar as well as a chef ’s pit, where chefs cooked top-end entrees for attendees to taste.

MARTA AND BRONSON DELRIO

MAYOR JIM AND SANDRA DARLING

RUBEN CAVAZOS AND SALLY FRAUSTRO GUERRA

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SOCIALIFE

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SOCIALIFE

19

1950 Paredes Line Rd. Brownsville, TX 956-542-2553

205 Pecan Blvd.

McAllen, TX 956-618-2300 YEAR 15 ISSUE 1

HIDALGO COUNTY EDITION YEAR 14 ISSUE 8

p.14

p.28

p.34

p.48

The Perfect Pair

Valley Symphony Orchestra

All Across the Plains of Mexico

DHR Health Transplant Institute

BML y Fragoso, S.C. Matamoros, Tamps., MX 011-52(868) 812-12-14

2019

www.bmltexas.com

YEAR 15 ISSUE 3

p.08

p.28

p.38

p.68

p.18

p.44

TXOGA Energy Summit

MoTown Gala

Hidalgo County

VSO A Touch of Frost

City of McAllen State of the City

DHR Health Gastroenterology

p.74

p.16

p.26

RGV Day At the Capitol

City of Pharr State of the City

Q&A with Precinct 4 Commissioner Ellie Torres

p.60

CajunFest 2019

2019

THE MAGAZINE OF THE RIO GRANDE VALLEY

THE HE

Diagnosis:

EDINBU

IS SCHOO

A H E A L T H I E R VA L L E Y YEAR 14 ISSUE 12

HIDALGO COUNTY EDITION YEAR 14 ISSUE 7

p.30

p.42

The RGV Killer Bees Are Back

Inside The Kitchen Chef Fernando Perez

2018

YEAR 15 ISSUE 2

p.26

p.36

p.47

p.58

p.16

p.26

MCC- Annual Man & Women of the year

City of Mission Texas Citrus Parade

Jones & Jones

UTRGV Athletics Hall of Fame

City of Pharr State of the City

Q&A with Precinct 4 Commissioner Ellie Torres

YEAR 15 ISSUE 1

2019

p.52

p.08

p.28

p.38

p.68

Quinta Mazatlan Monarch Migration

TXOGA Energy Summit

MoTown Gala

Hidalgo County

VSO A Touch of Frost

p.40

Edinburg CISD

2019

RIO GRANDE VALLEY

THE HEART OF

EDINBURG CISD IS SCHOOL FAMILY

T H E VA L L E Y SY M P HONY ORC H E ST R A 2018

YEAR 14 ISSUE 11

p.12

p.16

p.44

p.56

p.74

INB & Vantage Bank Mixer

McAllen Holiday Parade

North Park Lexus Now Open

Harry Potter Halloween Concert

HIDALGO COUNTY EDITION YEAR 14 ISSUE 6

HIDALGO COUNTY EDITION YEAR 14 ISSUE 4

2018

scantech chooses the valley

p.18

p.12

p.48

p.30

mission events center open for business

A Night at the Races CAMP University

why i love the valley

meet the new utrgv executive team

THE MAGAZINE OF THE RIO GRANDE VALLEY

p.26

p.32

Lionel’s Western Wear and Boutique

Mcallen ISD Highlights Individual Greatness

p.10

p.40

Rio Carnival at Quinta Mazatlan

Non- Profit Spotlight Betty Ramirez-Lara

p.20

David Tutera Inverview

THE MAGAZINE OF TH

THE MAGAZINE OF THE RIO GRANDE VALLEY

THE MAGAZINE OF THE RIO GRANDE VALLEY

District of Champions

CK IN TOWN!

McAllen ISD

HIDALGO COUNTY EDITION YEAR 14 ISSUE 10

YEAR 15 ISSUE 3

2018

p.42

p.78

City of Pharr

A Night in Paris

p.18

p.44

City of McAllen State of the City

DHR Health Gastroenterology

2019

HIDALGO COUNTY EDITION YEAR 14 ISSUE 5

p.10

p.74

p.60

CajunFest 2019

Rio Carnival at Quinta Mazatlan

RGV Day At the Capitol

UTRGV THE POWER TO

RIO GRANDE VALLEY

p.32

Rio Grande Regional Hospital Top 100

p.55

p.12

Edinburg State of The City

scantech chooses the valley

THE MAGAZINE OF THE RIO GRANDE VALLEY

p.18

p.48

p.30

mission events center open for business

why i love the valley

meet the new utrgv executive team

THE MAGAZINE OF THE RIO GRANDE VALLEY

CHANGE OUR COMMUNITY

Diagnosis:

e City of

p.20

David Tutera Inverview

HIDALGO COUNTY EDITION YEAR 14 ISSUE 4

A H E A L T H I E R VA L L E Y

YEAR 15 ISSUE 2

p.16

p.26

City of Pharr State of the City

Q&A with Precinct 4 Commissioner Ellie Torres

p.52

p.40

Edinburg CISD

HIDALGO COUNTY EDITION YEAR 14 ISSUE 7

2019

Quinta Mazatlan Monarch Migration

HIDALGO COUNTY EDITION YEAR 14 ISSUE 9

p.6

p.26

p.30

p.42

p.10

p.22

p.30

p.44

UTRGV Alumni Reception

Mochila Ministry

The RGV Killer Bees Are Back

Inside The Kitchen Chef Fernando Perez

Pharr Mayor Hernandez Celebrating our Heritage

Carats Fine Jewelry and Gifts

Bert Ogden Arena #GameChanger

Voyage into Fate

THE MAGAZINE OF THE RIO GRANDE VALLEY

THE HEART OF

HIDALGO COUNTY EDITION YEAR 14 ISSUE 6

p.12

A Night at the Races CAMP University

p.38

p.68

Hidalgo County

VSO A Touch of Frost

p.26

p.32

Lionel’s Western Wear and Boutique

Mcallen ISD Highlights Individual Greatness

is not a

HIDALGO COUNTY EDITION YEAR 14 ISSUE 8

p.40

Non- Profit Spotlight Betty Ramirez-Lara

THE MAGAZINE OF THE RIO GRANDE VALLEY

p.14

p.28

The Perfect Pair

Valley Symphony Orchestra

THE MAGAZINE OF TH

CHANGE OUR COMMUNITY

This Building

IS SCHOOL FAMILY

2019

UTRGV THE POWER TO

THE MAGAZINE OF THE RIO GRANDE VALLEY

EDINBURG CISD YEAR 15 ISSUE 1

2018

HIDALGO COUNTY EDITION YEAR 14 ISSUE 7

p.14

p.28

p.34

p.48

p.6

p.26

p.30

p.42

The Perfect Pair

Valley Symphony Orchestra

All Across the Plains of Mexico

DHR Health Transplant Institute

UTRGV Alumni Reception

Mochila Ministry

The RGV Killer Bees Are Back

Inside The Kitchen Chef Fernando Perez

THE MAGAZINE OF THE RIO GRANDE VALLEY

THE MAGAZINE OF THE RIO GRANDE VALLEY

District of Champions McAllen ISD

THE BEES ARE BACK IN TOWN!

T H E VA L L E Y SY M P 20

2018

YEAR 15 ISSUE 2

p.16

p.26

City of Pharr State of the City

Q&A with Precinct 4 Commissioner Ellie Torres

2019

p.52

p.40

Edinburg CISD

HIDALGO COUNTY EDITION YEAR 14 ISSUE 10

Quinta Mazatlan Monarch Migration

2018

YEAR 14 ISSUE 12

2018

p.14

p.20

p.42

p.78

p.26

p.36

p.47

p.58

Aeromar

Cattle Baron’s Ball

City of Pharr

A Night in Paris

MCC- Annual Man & Women of the year

City of Mission Texas Citrus Parade

Jones & Jones

UTRGV Athletics Hall of Fame

THE MAGAZINE OF THE RIO GRANDE VALLEY

THE HEART OF

T H E VA L L E Y SY M P HONY ORC H E ST R A 2018

IS SCHOOL FAMILY

YEAR 15 ISSUE 1

HIDALGO COUNTY EDITION YEAR 14 ISSUE 9

2019

p.38

p.68

Hidalgo County

VSO A Touch of Frost

2018

p.10

p.22

p.30

p.44

Pharr Mayor Hernandez Celebrating our Heritage

Carats Fine Jewelry and Gifts

Bert Ogden Arena #GameChanger

Voyage into Fate

YEAR 14 ISSUE 11

THE MAGAZINE OF THE RIO GRANDE VALLEY

HIDALGO COUNTY EDITION YEAR 14 ISSUE 5

THE BEES ARE BACK IN TOWN!

The City of

EDINBURG CISD

This is not a Building

2018

2018

p.16

p.44

p.56

p.74

INB & Vantage Bank Mixer

McAllen Holiday Parade

North Park Lexus Now Open

Harry Potter Halloween Concert

HIDALGO COUNTY EDITION YEAR 14 ISSUE 10

p.14

p.20

p.42

p.78

Aeromar

Cattle Baron’s Ball

City of Pharr

A Night in Paris

The City of

2019

2018

THE MAGAZINE OF THE RIO GRANDE VALLEY

THE MAGAZINE OF THE RIO GRANDE VALLEY

YEAR 15 ISSUE 1

p.16

p.44

INB & Vantage Bank Mixer

McAllen Holiday Parade

THE MAGAZINE OF TH

YEAR 15 ISSUE 3

2019

SOCIALIFE

IN THE COMMUNITY

Hidalgo County census 2020

How much of the annual $675 billion funding will the Valley receive for our residents and communities?

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SOCIALIFE

Hidalgo County and leaders from throughout the Rio Grande Valley have committed to each do their part in promoting the 2020 Census and ensuring that all residents are counted.

The United States Constitution calls for an enumeration to be made of the populace every 10 years. It is designed to count every person living in the United States at that moment, regardless of where they live, how many people are in a given household, or if they are U.S. Citizens or from another country – it only matters that the person lives here at the time the census is taken. That means everyone, from babies to grandparents, should be counted.

Data collected from the census affects how many representatives we have in federal and state government and the amount of federal and state funding we receive to assist our residents and communities.

WWW.SOCIALIFERGV.COM

According to the Census Bureau, $675 billion annually is distributed to local communities through 132 government programs, including Medicaid, Medicare, Highway Planning and Construction, Section 8 Housing, Title 1 Grants to local education agencies, Nutritional School Lunch Program, State Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP), and Head Start.

With 35 percent of our residents living below the poverty line, ensuring we receive our fair share of federal and state monies is very important. Hidalgo County and the Rio Grande Valley have traditionally been undercounted by the U.S. Census. It is estimated that in 2010 the census may have missed 25,000 to 70,000 people living here. But even if we are undercounted by just 10,000 people, the county stands to lose millions in crucial healthcare, education, and transportation dollars.

We can accomplish that goal by working together. We are stronger when we work together; that is why Hidalgo County has been working with a comprehensive coalition of partners to plan for the 2020 Census.

Our partners represent local governments, primary and secondary education, community organizations, news media, and business and workforce professionals. These representatives helped us come up with our 2020 Census logo and slogan of United We Count/Unidos Contamos.

What can you do? Apply for a Census job and work either partor full-time in your own community; encourage your family, friends, and neighbors to apply for a job online at 2020Census. gov/jobs; and you can share the importance of being counted with your family, friends, and neighbors.

The Census has other far-reaching implications, including providing data that businesses, researchers, and policymakers depend on to make decisions. Therefore, we must do everything we can to ensure an accurate count in the 2020 Census.

WWW.SOCIALIFERGV.COM

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ROCA PATRON TEQUILA DINNER AT BOB’S STEAK & CHOP HOUSE Edinburg Photography by Victoria Gaytan

On Friday, April 26, Bob’s Steak & Chop House hosted their Roca Patron Tequila Dinner featuring a chef-inspired threecourse menu expertly paired with Roca Patron Silver, Reposado and Anejo tequilas. Guests were guided through the tasting notes of each Roca Patron Tequila, learned about Patron Tequila’s Story of Perfection, and enjoyed a perfectly paired menu designed to thrill!

CURTIS AND DALIA BROCKMAN

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WWW.SOCIALIFERGV.COM

Digital Banking

Putting The Valley’s Bank at Your Fingertips.

BANK TO BANK TRANSFER 3

eSTATEMENTS 1

MOBILE DEPOSIT 2

BILL PAY 1

SMS TEXT2 BANKING

APPLE PAY 4

PERSON TO PERSON 2 PAYMENTS LSNB CARD 1 MANAGER™

1-800-580-0322 www.lonestarnationalbank.com (1) Online Banking, Unlimited Bill Pay, LSNB Mobile™ and eStatements require enrollment in Internet Banking.

LSNB Mobile™ requires Web access access fees may be charged by your mobile carrier; check with your mobile provider for specific details on fees and charges. (2) Available to LSNB Mobile™ App users.

(3) Bank to Bank transfers are available to Internet Banking and LSNB Mobile™ App users. (4) Requires enrollment through Mobile Wallet App.

C I T Y

H A L L

U P D A T E

PHARR JOINS RGV CITIES IN MERGING MPO Mayor Ambrosio Hernandez, M.D. and the Pharr City Commission marked a historic moment as they approved a resolution in support of the Rio Grande Valley Metropolitan Planning Organization merger.

BENEFIT: Pharr will now be eligible for millions in federal and state funding for transportation infrastructure

ANNUAL PHARR HUB PHESTIVAL A SUCCESS The annual Pharr Hub Phestival was held on Saturday, March 30 with hundreds of attendees taking part in the family-friendly festivities. Headliner Tracy Lawrence was the highlight of the event.

BENEFIT: Community events for Pharr families remain a priority and help boost city pride and involvement

NEWLY ELECTED PHARR OFFICIALS SWORN IN Re-elected city officials, including Mayor Ambrosio Hernandez, M.D., Commissioner Place 1 Eleazar Guajardo, Commissioner Place 5 Ricardo Medina, and newly-elected Commissioner Place 6 Itza Flores have officially been sworn into office.

BENEFIT: The Pharr City Commission will continue to advocate for citizens and fulfill its mission of enhancing city services and opportunities

Keep up with all the great things in the city : www.facebook.com/cityofpharr For more information, contact us at (956) 402-4000

MOON OVER MAZATLAN FIESTA 2019

McAllen Photography by Sergio Arratia

Quinta Mazatlán hosted a sold out crowd of guests at their annual fundraising gala, Moon over Mazatlán, on April 11th, 2019. The evening celebrated another successful year of educational programs and sustainability initiatives along with honoring founding board member Susie Robertson for her life-long commitment. Unbeknownst to the crowd, a special announcement was made by Mayor Jim Darling regarding the city’s expansion of Quinta Mazatlán with the purchase of an additional five acres of land. Much gratitude was given to co-chairs Val LaMantia Peisen and Sally Fraustro Guerra and the many supporters that allow Quinta Mazatlán to continue to offer nature education programming for students of all ages in South Texas.

BONNY CURRAN, ALEJANDRA VELA, DANNY VELA, AND DR. ADOLFO SANTOS

DIANN BARTEK, COLLEEN C. HOOK, MAELIA SALCINES, JUDGE RICHARD CORTEZ, AND SALLY FRAUSTRO GUERRA

VAL LAMANTIA PEISEN

JANET AND BOB VACKAR

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DR. HELENE AND DR. JACK KROUSE

DR. J.A. AND SHAROO GONZALEZ

DR JOHN GERLING, BECKY GERLING, MIRNA RODRIGUEZ, AND PAUL RODRIGUEZ

DAVID AND CRIS RIVERA

WWW.SOCIALIFERGV.COM

SOCIALIFE 29

ANNETTE VILLALOBOS, COMMISSIONER JAVIER VILLALOBOS, AND NORA MUSULE

MAYOR JIM DARLING WITH UTRGV FOLKLORICO DANCERS

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WWW.SOCIALIFERGV.COM

EDINBURG CISD 10TH ANNUAL SUPERINTENDENT’S SCHOLARSHIP GOLF CLASSIC Edinburg Photography by Haron Saenz

The Edinburg Consolidated Independent School District hosted its 10th Annual Superintendent’s Scholarship Golf Classic at the Monte Cristo Golf & Country Club in Edinburg.

The event generated scholarship funds to help graduating seniors pay for college tuition and books.

This year’s Golf Classic raised over $93,000 in scholarships, thanks to the generosity of our school community and businesses.

DR. EDUARDO MORENO, DAHLIA GUZMAN, DR. RENE GUTIERREZ, DR. REBECCA MORRISON, AND DR. MARIO SALINAS

SONYA RODRIGUEZ, MODESTA SEGUNDO, LUISA GONZALEZ, AND LISA VALDEZ

JOSHUA PENA AND ROBERT PENA JR.

JAMES DREYER, MALACHI ESPARZA, MARCO PENA, AND JUSTIN ESPARZA

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DR. RENE GUTIERREZ AND CARMEN GONZALEZ

OSCAR CAMPOS, MARIANA CAMPOS, DAMIAN GONZALEZ, AND GABE PENA

OMAR OCHOA, DR. RENE GUTIERREZ, AND JOE OCHOA

WWW.SOCIALIFERGV.COM

ECISD is the place to be!

State Top Honors for Academics!

Proud to be an “A” Honor Roll District!

The Edinburg Consolidated Independent School District received a grade of an “A” on the newest academic accountability ratings based on an A-through-F scale. Additionally, the ECISD Finance Department earned an “A” or Superior rating in financial accountability for the 2017-2018 school year.

for

Academic Achievement

for

Financial Accountability

National Award-Winning Academics!

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ECISD Awarded Six National Blue Ribbon Schools

For the third consecutive year, the Edinburg Consolidated Independent School District has received two National Blue Ribbon School recognitions.

The district has now earned a total of six national titles, which is more than any other school district or charter school in South Texas!

Magee Elementary Honored with Prestigious National Title I Distinguished School Award The National Association of Elementary and Secondary Education Act State Program Administrators (NAESPA) named Magee Elementary School a National Title I Distinguished School, recognizing the campus for its exceptional student achievement in 2018. Magee was the ONLY Texas school and one of about only 100 schools nationwide to earn this prestigious distinction!

JOIN THE ECISD FAMILY. ENROLL TODAY!

For more information, contact Student Support Services at (956) 289-2300 | www.ecisd.us It is the policy of Edinburg C.I.S.D. not to discriminate on the basis of sex, age, handicap, religion, race, color, or national origin in its educational programs. Es poliza del Distrito Escolar de Edinburg el no discriminar por razones con base en sexo, edad, religion, raza, color, origen nacional, ni descapacidad dentro de sus programas educacionales. (Edinburg CISD Media Publication 4/19)

BUENAS TARDES LUNCHEON SPONSORED BY SOCIALIFE Mission Photography by Sergio Arratia

The Greater Mission Chamber of Commerce held its quarterly Buenas Tardes Luncheon, sponsored by Socialife, The Magazine of the Rio Grande Valley, on April 11, 2019, at the Cimarron Country Club. Keynote speaker, Hidalgo County Judge Richard Cortez, shared his vision for the community and the county. Mayor O’Caña welcomed Judge Cortez and everyone in attendance to the City of Mission. Some of the event’s bronze sponsors included Terracon, RGVision Media, CAPA, Starr Telecom, IBC Bank, Anzalduas International Bridge, and Texas Regional Bank.

JUDGE RICHARD CORTEZ, SALLY FRAUSTRO GUERRA, BRENDA ENRIQUEZ, AND MAYOR ARMANDO O’CAÑA

CITY OF MISSION MAYOR DR. ARMANDO O’CAÑA

DAVID GUERRA, SALLY FRAUSTRO GUERRA, AND COMMISSIONER JESSICA ORTEGA

COMISSIONER JAVIER VILLALOBOS

JUDGE LUIS SINGLETERRY, JUDGE NEREIDA LOPEZ SINGLETERRY, AND SANDRA VECCHIO

MANUEL MUÑIZ AND DORA BROWN

SALLY FRAUSTRO GUERRA AND BRONSON DELRIO

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HIDALGO COUNTY JUDGE RICHARD CORTEZ

WWW.SOCIALIFERGV.COM

SOCIALIFE 35

NON-PROFIT SPOT LIGHT The Rio Grande Valley Literacy Center …Offering ESL and GED classes for adults

Rio Grande Valley Literacy Center (RGVLC)

By Diana Garza-Farias

The Center is a 501 (c)(3) non-profit community based organization that offers adult education classes to people who need help achieving their educational and career goals.

The Rio Grande Valley Literacy Center provides economic opportunities by empowering our communities through adult education and literacy.

The RGVLC began as the “Pharr Literacy Project” with just one building in Pharr, Texas - and now spreads across the RGV with 17 locations. The center educates the citizens of eight cities, including Edinburg, Pharr, McAllen, Mercedes,

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Mission, Penitas, San Juan, and Weslaco. All of these locations provide programs for adults 18 years and older, such as GED (English and Spanish), English as a Second Language, Computer Literacy, English Club and U.S. Naturalization classes. The 8th Annual Boots & Bling event will provide the funds needed to continue their efforts in educating and impacting the lives of adults in the RGV while living up to their credo “Leave No One Behind”. www.rgvliteracycenter.org (956) 961-4299

WWW.SOCIALIFERGV.COM

Award-winning Stroke Center | (956) 362-8500

When it comes to Stroke...

You deserve the FIRST Joint Commission Certified Comprehensive Stroke Center in the Region.

• 24/7 Specialized Stroke Care • Dedicated Team of Stroke Professionals • Fastest Response Time When You Need it Most • Certification through the Highest Standards DHR Health Neuroscience Institute Exclusive: 3D Tractography Imaging

MEET OUR NEUROSCIENCE EXPERTS Neurointerventional Radiology

Patricia M. Fernandez M.D., MBA

Patrick Noonan, M.D.

NeuroHospitalist

Neurology

Miguel Gutierrez, M.D.

Zuka Khabbazeh, M.D.

Bhuvana Mandalapu, M.D.

Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation

Neurosurgery

Sohum K. Desai, M.D.

Felix Rivera, M.D.

Juan Padilla, M.D.

Achal P. Patel, M.D.

Gustavo Ramos, M.D.

Saroja Viswamitra, M.D.

Amol Uttukar, D.O.

Pediatric & Adult Neurosurgery

Michael J. Burke, M.D., FACS, FAAP, FAANS

Clinical NeuroPsychology

Eduardo Estevis, PhD

Doctors Hospital at Renaissance proudly meets the federal definition of a “physician-owned hospital” (42 CFR § 489.3). As required by law, a list of the hospital’s physician owners and investors is available at www.dhr-rgv.com. DHR, Ltd. and its affiliated entities comply with applicable Federal civil rights laws and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, or sex.

VANTAGE BANK MORTGAGE

DEPARTMENT HEADQUARTERS GRAND OPENING McAllen Photography by Sergio Arratia

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On Thursday, April 4th, Vantage Bank Texas celebrated the grand opening of its new mortgage department headquarters at 1524 N McColl Road, McAllen. The ribbon cutting marked a new era for Vantage Bank Texas’s mortgage department, as it will now be able to offer a more streamlined mortgage lending experience for its customers, bringing the lending team, closers, and servicing department together at one location. Real estate professionals and customers alike have already commented on the improvement that has come from the relocation, as the Bank’s sales and service team now operate under one roof at McColl. The grand opening was attended by real estate agents, brokers, builders, title company leaders, and other real estate professionals.

The McAllen Hispanic Chamber of Commerce headlined the grand opening with a celebratory ribboncutting ceremony.

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MORTGAGE LENDING SOLUTIONS

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DREAM BIG with Call Today 866.716.9594 *Applies to Purchase Money Transactions and Rate/Term Refinance transactions only. Financing available for properties in Texas and New Mexico. All loans subject to credit approval. Minimum loan amount may apply. This offer will have up to $4,000 in select closing costs (does not cover mortgage insurance, seller paid closing costs, discount points, or pre-paids and reserves). This offer is not valid for FHA or VA loans. Closing costs may vary based on transaction.

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MATTHEW CAMPBELL LAURENZA TRUNK SHOW AT CARATS McAllen Photography by Sergio Arratia

Carats celebrated spring with Matthew Campbell Laurenza and Easterseals RGV. Guests enjoyed a lovely cocktail evening while shopping. A percentage of the sales went to benefit Easterseals of the Rio Grande Valley, helping children and adults with disabilities reach full potential.

THERESA HUNTER, MARIJEL CUELLAR, AND JERRY TALBOT

GABRIELA NUNNERY AND MICHELLE LEA ZAMORA

DESIGNER THOMAS CAMPBELL LAURENZA, SAUL SANCHEZ, PATTIE ROSENLUND, AND CARLOS MELGUIZO

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Maui Wowie Roll

Spicy Tuna Poke Bowl

Seared Tuna McALLEN | SAN ANTONIO | BROWNSVILLE | WESLACO

www.kumorisushi.com

2019 STARS

On Friday, April 26, 2019, approximately 650 friends of Stars Scholarship Fund gathered for the 16th Annual Extravaganza at L&F Distributors in McAllen, Texas. Guests at the Extravaganza enjoyed a gourmet dinner, a silent and live auction followed by an evening of comedy by comedian and writer from SNL, Colin Jost. Every year, Stars Scholarship Fund raises critical revenue through the Extravaganza sponsorships and contributions. 100% of the funds raised will go towards scholarships for the 2019-2020 academic year to students from the community.

EXTRAVAGANZA

McAllen Photography by Haron Saenz and Zar Castillo

LINDA USEDA, RICHARD USEDA, SYLVIA HINOJOSA, AND GARY RODRIGUEZ

JIMMY GONZALEZ AND CLARISSA LONGORIA

LAURIE AND GREG LAMANTIA

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ALLIE CRANE, DR GUY BAILEY, AND DEBBIE ALISEDA

COLIN JOST

BOBBY CASSO, BOBBY MOST, AND JOE BARRERA

JAY ZAMBRANO, BRENDA ENRIQUEZ, AND LUIS LEAL

LEON DE LEON, VELMA DE LEON, CRIS RIVERA, AND DAVID RIVERA

WWW.SOCIALIFERGV.COM

MIKE SAENZ, COSME GOMEZ, DANIELA GARCIA, AND BRIAN SAENZ

NORA AND DR. PANKAJKUMAR SHAH

PAULINO BERNAL, RICARDO CONTRERAS, MELINA LERMA, AND STEVE LERMA

NORMA AGUILERA, DORA SANCHEZ, AND LAURA GONZALEZ

TIM THURMAN, GREG MCCUMBER, AND MIKE CHRYSSIKOS

VAL LAMANTIA, WAYNE JOHNSON, AND ALMA JOHNSON

WWW.SOCIALIFERGV.COM

SOCIALIFE 43

Be Bold .

Make a Statem ent.

4915 N 10th St, McAllen, TX 78504 (956) 630-1771 www.karlasjewelry.com

11TH ANNUAL NIGHT AT THE BREW-SEUM CRAFT BEER FESTIVAL McAllen Photography by Sergio Arratia

SAUL SANCHEZ AND CARLOS MELGUIZO

The International Museum of Art & Science (IMAS) hosted their 11th Annual “Brew-seum” Craft Beer Festival with Clark Chevrolet and Clark Knapp Honda as their title sponsors for this event.

The “Brew-seum” is a unique festival that provides the community of the Rio Grande Valley with a one-of-akind cultural experience. Attendees enjoyed a festival atmosphere, outdoor entertainment and games, music by The Jolly Huntsmen, basketball on a giant screen, with a variety of cuisine from the Valley’s finest restaurants and a wide selection of craft beer, thus making “Brew-seum” a night to remember!

APRIL HATTON, CLAIRE FORRESTER, AND CHELSEA DOTTY

DEMETRIO PETRIDES AND LEONORA GARCIA

ALBERT REGO, SONY REGO, LAURA WARREN, AND DAN OGLETREE

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WWW.SOCIALIFERGV.COM

Chicharrรณn de Pulpo 300 E. Express Way 83, Palms Crossings, McAllen, Texas (956) 630-9928

SOCIALIFE

COMMUNITY PRIDE

THE

CHANGEMAKERS RGV-Based IDEA Public Schools Goes Nationwide

“

This is morning for IDEA Public Schools.

”

That’s how IDEA CEO Tom Torkelson responds when you ask him to describe the current state and future aspirations of IDEA Public Schools, which he co-founded alongside now Superintendent JoAnn Gama in Donna, TX back in 1997.

Torkelson and Gama started IDEA after the two originally met during stints as

Teach For America corps members.

They saw an opportunity to more effectively address the struggles of students first in Donna and later throughout the Rio Grande Valley. Over the next two decades, the duo stayed true to their core mission of preparing ALL students – no matter their background – for success in college and citizenship. And in doing so, IDEA is now on track to serve 100,000 students at 205 schools in 10 regions across the United States by 2022.

Though these coast-to-coast aspirations have resulted in a great deal of change for the school district

since its original inception as an after-school program, one thing hasn’t changed: its co-founders’ steadfast belief that each and every child deserves the opportunity for a structured, personalized education that ultimately results in college acceptance.

“Educational inequalities exist all over the country,” Torkelson said. “What we’ve been able to do in the Rio Grande Valley – in large part because we have the freedom to innovate and change the way education is delivered in classrooms – is something we want to replicate in other regions of need.

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#100Kby2022: IDEA will roughly double in size over the next three years, ultimately serving 100,000 students by the year 2022.

We’re so proud to be part of the RGV community, and we bring this pride and culture with us to every new region IDEA opens in.�

By this August, 97 IDEA schools will be in operation across the Valley, San Antonio, Austin, El Paso, Houston, Ft. Worth, Baton Rouge, and New Orleans.

Upcoming expansions into Florida and other areas are in the works.

With this rate of expansion and growth comes the challenge of maintaining high-quality academic results for all Pre-K – 12th grade students, a task that IDEA takes very seriously. It also means

that training and hiring great teachers and building replicable systems that make these accomplishments possible is of the highest importance. And that’s where Superintendent JoAnn Gama shines.

As a child growing up in a low-income Houston neighborhood, Gama realized early on that all children aren’t always given an equal opportunity to learn and succeed. “Kids in those communities, like the community in which I grew up, they can learn, and they can do well and they do want to be taught,�

Gama said. “As leaders and educators at IDEA Public Schools, we believe

it’s our responsibility to deliver better opportunities that suit their needs.�

It’s no secret that what Torkelson and Gama have built at IDEA Public Schools has grown well beyond its original Rio Grande Valley beginnings, but that same community-based, studentsfirst mentality from which IDEA grew continues to carry the organization forward as it changes education for the better across the nation. If this is indeed just the morning for IDEA, as Torkelson said, then there are very bright days ahead for this Valley-based, trailblazing organization.

ALPHA & OMEGA WINE DINNER AT BOB’S STEAK & CHOP HOUSE Edinburg Photography by Victoria Gaytan

Bob’s Steak & Chop House hosted their monthly wine dinner featuring Napa Valley’s Alpha and Omega Winery.

Utilizing fruit from nearly every appellation in Napa Valley, Alpha and Omega winemakers blend the essence of these exceptional terroirs ranging from the valley floor, hillside, mountain and coast to bring complexity, depth and a wider range of aromatic profiles to their wines. Guests of the evening enjoyed a flavorful three-course dinner paired with Alpha and Omega wines while listening to the story behind this exquisite vineyard. Join us at the next wine dinner and be part of this great experience!

JOEL PENA, STELLA PENA, JACQUELINE PALACIOS, MARTA ELIZONDO, AND LOLO ELIZONDO

JOHN AND RUTH WHIDDON

LORI & MARK SALDAÑA

JUAN LUIS MUSSENDEN, JACQUELINE PALACIOS, MAE VELA, AND ROGER MIRELES

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Make Your Private Dining a Prime Event.

Photo Credits: Valley Wedding Pages

• Wedding Rehearsals • Corporate Events • Birthdays • Business Meetings

bobs-steakandchop.com

613 E. Trenton Rd., Edinburg, Texas 78539 Located at The Shoppes at Rio Grande Valley For Reservations, Private Dining or Special Events Call (956) 380-2627

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MEMORIAL FUNERAL HOME

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BY THE ACADEMY OF PROFESSIONAL FUNERAL SERVICE PRACTICE Velma Sue De Leon, CFSP, to exceed the highest standards of care. This ma Sue De Leon, CFSP, and Leon De Leon, CFSP, funeral directors with Memorial and Leon De Leon, CFSP, achievement is especially notable because neral Home in San Juan and Edinburg, have recently qualified for recertification of the funeral directorsPractitioner with Velma and voluntarily signation of Certified Funeral Service (CFSP) byLeon the have Academy of elected to Funeral Home participate in quality education and service fessional Funeral ServiceMemorial Practice. in San Juan and Edinburg, opportunities that far surpass what the funeral umber of professions grant recognition to members upon completion of havespecial recently qualified service licensing board in Texas requires.

Velma ecified academic and professional programs and “CFSP” funeral service’s national for recertification of and Leonishave committed to a program of ividual recognition. the designation of Certified Funeral Service lifelong learning to serve you and families in your Practitioner (CFSP) by the Academy of community with the level of excellence expected elect few have distinguished themselves among their peers within the funeral service Professional Funeral Service Practice. to exceedofthe a CFSP. fession as they continue their education highest standards of care.

s achievement isofespecially because VelmaThe and Leon have voluntarily elected A number professions notable grant special Board of Trustees of the Academy of participate in quality education and service opportunities that far surpass what the recognition to members upon completion of Professional Funeral Service Practice commends eral service licensing board in Texas requires.

Velma and Leon to have committed a of specified academic and professional programs you for choosing put your trust in thetohands gram of lifelong learning to serve you and families in your community with the level of and “CFSP” is funeral service’s national individual a Certified Funeral Service Practitioner. ellence expected of a CFSP.

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We are proud to be family owned, family focused, and dedicated to our community

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San Juan

311 E. Expressway 83 956-787-1415 52

SOCIALIFE

Edinburg

208 E. Canton 956-380-1416

Edinburg

208 E. Canton 956-380-1416 WWW.SOCIALIFERGV.COM

MODERN - SOPHISTICATED - SHOWSTOPPING On-Site Ceremonies – Ample Parking – Courtyard - Catering and More!

208 East Canton Edinburg, Texas Schedule your tour today!

956-720-4332

Individual Tickets-$100 Tablesof 8-$1,000 Sponsorshipopportunitiesavailable.

Joinusforanight of music, entertainment, art, andfun!

Pleasecontact RebeccaStocker–r.stocker@hfhcenter.org

Mission Hope Family Health Center provides quality integrated medical and counseling services including preventative care and education to uninsured individuals and families living in the Rio Grande Valley.

IN FOCUS

ADVERTORIAL

AMERIPRISE FINANCIAL

McALLEN COMMUNITY LEADER: DERRICK KINNEY, PRIVATE WEALTH ADVISOR Advertorial

“We help people enjoy a confident retirement.”

- Derrick Kinney “In our first visit together, people often tell us they are concerned about whether they’ll have enough money for retirement or they’re worried about running out of money in retirement,” said Kinney. “We believe everyone should enjoy the rewards of all their hard work. We understand their concerns and worries which is why we are called on as a leading retirement resource.”

Derrick and Kara Kinney with clients, Mike and Tina

KINNEY AND HIS CARING TEAM OF FINANCIAL ADVISORS USE A 3-STEP PROCESS: 1. Visit - They will listen to your goals and desires.

2. Plan - They will create a customized financial plan.

3. Track - They will review progress toward your goals.

They help their clients stop working longer than they need to and begin doing what they enjoy with less stress.

Kinney with CBS4 anchor, Samantha Mesa and meteorologist, Jim Danner

GIVING BACK TO THE RIO GRANDE VALLEY:

Kinney with McAllen community leaders, Jaime Tijerina, Marco Suarez, and Ernie Aliseda

A strong supporter of McAllen schools, Kinney supports quality education by recognizing outstanding teachers and students at Fields Elementary and Milam Elementary. Their team gives back to worthy organizations that make our local communities stronger and help those in need.

Recently, Kinney’s team sponsored a child to attend camp through the Boys & Girls Club of McAllen.

We are thankful for businesses like Derrick Kinney & Associates who serve their clients so well and who are strong community partners.

So schedule a visit now.

Located across the street from P.J.’s Pie Shop, Kinney’s ooce is conveniently located at 5407 N. McColl Road, Ste A in McAllen. To schedule a visit, call (956) 668-0701. For more information, go to DerrickKinney.com.

Ameriprise Financial cannot guarantee future financial results. Derrick Kinney & Associates, a private wealth advisory practice of Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc., Investment advisory products and services are made available through Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc., a registered investment adviser. Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc., Member FINRA and SIPC.© 2019 Ameriprise Financial, Inc. All rights reserved.

SOCIALIFE

COMMUNITY PRIDE

ETIQUESTIONS Dr. Barbara Baggerly-Hinojosa

“to make a pleasant and friendly impression is not only good manners but equally good business.”

E m ily Pos t ( 19 2 2 )

Do I pass the bread around the table or wait for someone to ask?

If the bread basket is next to you, offer the person on your left a piece of bread, help yourself to a piece, then pass the basket to your right.

There is no need to wait for someone to ask for it before you begin to pass the basket.

Is it rude to have my phone on the table at a gala or event?

While many times we need our phones handy in cases of an emergency, it is always a better idea not to have it on the table. We want to make sure that we do not introduce any germs to the tabletop. By placing your phone on your lap (under the napkin) or under your leg on the chair, you will still be able to feel it vibrate should someone need to contact you.

Is it ok to begin eating once my plate has been served?

Great question! It is best to wait until everyone at the table has received their plates before beginning to eat. While waiting for everyone to be served, it is great timing for light conversation about the event, decorations, etc.

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.

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REACH FOR THE STARS IDEA SCHOLARSHIP GALA 2019 Mission Photography by Sergio Arratia

MAYOR JIM AND SANDRA DARLING

DEBIE AND JOE WOMAK

More than 700 attendees enjoyed mixing and mingling over dinner in the star-adorned room at the Mission Event Center, bidding on original works of art created by IDEA students, and hearing from IDEA Founders, Tom Torkelson and JoAnn Gama, NBA Legend David Robinson, and three outstanding IDEA students. Several IDEA students and alums spoke to the power of an IDEA education as they shared their inspiring stories of hard work and perseverance.

VANESSA BERRY, BRYAN SMITH, AND JENNIFER MIER

TOM TORKELSON AND DAVID ROBINSON

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WWW.SOCIALIFERGV.COM

JOAQUIN HINOJOSA, CLIFF TWIGGS, STEPHANIE CANALES, AND RAUL GONZALEZ

WWW.SOCIALIFERGV.COM

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$630,000+

RAISED FOR SCHOLARSHIPS Thank you, sponsors and supporters.

This year’s 13th Annual “Reach for the Stars” Dinner & Auction highlighted the success and innovation of IDEA in the Rio Grande Valley and the ways in which it’s being replicated in central Texas and beyond through the stories of current students, supporters and leaders.

More than 700 guests connected over dinner, bid on original works of art created by IDEA students and enjoyed videos from students who shared their inspiring stories celebrating IDEA’s core value of Team & Family. Because of your support, it was our most successful event ever for yet another year. We raised over $630K in scholarships and featured a special guest appearance from NBA Legend and IDEA Board Member, David Robinson.

WHATEVER IT TAKES $25,000

Epic Insurance Brokers McGriff Insurance Services

PMSI RGV Pro Direct

Regions Bank Texas Medical Transportation

CLOSING THE ACHIEVEMENT GAP $15,000

Kencon LTD

NO EXCUSES Buck Financial D.Wilson Construction Co. ERO Architects

$10,000

Wil-con Gerlach Builders LLC GMS, GRA & Ethos Hertz Furniture

Office Depot Tadco Roofing Vantage Bank

100% EVERY DAY $5,000

Baird Foundation John and Mary Muratore Dr. Joey & Xenia Garza Cardenas Development Co. Charlie Clark Nissan Core Business Solutions

Cell Tech Mobility, LLC Davenport Group Ed Rivera Philanthropy Gulf Coast Paper HKS Hunton, Andrews, Kurth Masterson Advisors LLC

McGraw Hill Raymond James R.W. Baird Rhodes Enterprises. Inc./Esperanaza Homes Serafy Family Foundation Schulman, Lopez, Hoffer & Adelstein LLP

SWEATING THE SMALL STUFF Atlas Hall & Rodriguez BB&T Capital Markets Rob &Sarah Guerra Joe & Zulieda Habbouche Brand Muscle Charles & Carolyn Bell Dolores Gonzalez Sam Goessling Chief Justice Dori Contreras City of Edinburg/Edinburg EDC City Of Pharr City of Weslaco Construction Rent A Fence

Copy Graphics Crunch Brownsville/Edinburg DHR Health Jill Dominguez & Elizabet Garza IBC Bank McAllen Insight Financial Services InSite EFS Key Construction North Park Lexus RGV/Top Golf Lone Star National Bank Magic Valley Marroquin Law Firm PLLC McGraw Hill Education

$2,500

Melden & Hunt Inc. Mission Chamber of Commerce Navy Army Community Credit Union Nerdvana Noble Texas Builders Payne Auto Group Rio Bank Gama Property Management R Communication R-Install RGVision Rios of Mercedes Safeguard Fire Security

Sam Garcia Architect Sociallife Sombrero Festival South Texas Health System Southern Landscapes Teach for America Terracon Texas Regional Bank UTRGV Foundation Valley Land Title Co. Valley Baptist Health System Whataburger

We can help you reach the right volume.

ADVERTISING STRATEGIES AND CREATIVE SOLUTIONS THAT WORK PRINT • WEB • TV • RADIO • SOCIAL MEDIA • CELEBRITY ENDORSEMENT

www.decibel.rocks

DISCOVER

VALLEY HISTORY

El Plan de San Diego, Part 4:

3 : A STORM F ROM THE SOU TH The raiders often struck at isolated stores, farms and ranches, taking supplies essential to horseback fighters — saddles, tack, guns, ammunition and food. Sometimes they targeted irrigation plants, railroad facilities and other symbols of what they saw as Anglo oppression.

Citizens and soldiers on occasion were killed or kidnapped; in August, A.L. Austin and his son were kidnapped from their farm near Sebastian, then shot. Raiding done, the horsemen returned to Mexico and refuge behind the international boundary.

Who were the raiders? To the Anglos they were “Mexican bandits,” the term giving the whole period its label in popular histories — “the Bandit Era” or “Bandit Wars.” In Mexico they were also called bandidos, as well as sediciosos or seditionists, suggesting a political aspect to the raids. Another term was San Diegoistas, indicating that at least some raiders sought to achieve the goals of El Plan de San Diego. Dr. Rodolfo Rocha, formerly of the Pan American University Department of History, viewed the raiders as “social revolutionaries.” In an interview around 1980 he told this writer that he saw the raids as the pent-up release of hostilities by displaced tejanos toward the Valley’s Anglo-dominated “establishment”.

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In fact, as often happens, the motives and the men probably were a mixture, ranging from those out to liberate South Texas from the Anglos, to opportunistic thugs bent on just shooting things up, stealing what they could and raising hell. For others, the raids may have been simply a way to get the supplies they needed. Dr. Rocha believed that some raids targeted particular stores and ranches where owners were reputed to deal unfairly with mexicanos. Many probably saw raiding as their only way to “get even.”

Raiding across the border, it should be noted, wasn’t a one-way street. From the 1850s on, some Anglos and tejanos crossed the Río Grande into Mexico, mostly to steal cattle or to take back cattle stolen from them. Such activity diminished by 1900, though the border (being a border) was seldom without illicit traffic. But the big raids out of Mexico in 1915-1916 struck not only ranches but also bigger symbols of gringo presence such as irrigation plants, cotton gins, stores and railroads — basically, as Dr. Rocha noted, attacks on the gringo establishment itself.

Across the Valley, nerves were on edge. Farmers and ranchers went armed, and other family members kept guns close by. Killings by raiders brought reprisal killings of Hispanics, often without legal process; prisoners sometimes were

taken from custody and lynched. Others were gunned down or strung up on suspicion only, or without any cause other than growing mass hysteria. Author Brian Robertson wrote in Wild Horse Desert, “The fear and anger led to many instances where the fact that a person was of Mexican heritage was enough to bring about harassment or murder.” (Wild Horse Desert, The Heritage of South Texas by Brian Robertson, Hidalgo County Historical Museum, 1985, p. 250.)

By Sept. 1915, reprisals were prompting many tejanos to cross the river and join raiding gangs.

When lawmen or soldiers engaged the raiders, small battles often resulted; the battle at Norias in August, 1915 involved several U.S. cavalrymen and local citizens, attacked by some 60 raiders. Pursuit didn’t always stop at the river; on occasion, Texas Rangers and U.S. troops chased gangs into Mexico, ratcheting up international tensions.

Generally, though, the boundary was the raiders’ haven. General Emiliano Nafarrete, Blanco’s carrancista commander in Matamoros (who’d defeated the villistas earlier), hated gringos and made sure that raiders found sanctuary on the south bank.

by Senior Historian Tom Fort

WWW.SOCIALIFERGV.COM

VICTORY CUP POLO MATCH SPRING 2019

McAllen Photography by Sergio Arratia

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The very first Bert Ogden Auto Group Victory Cup Polo Match drew over 3,000 guests and was a great success!

The event included VIP Lounge Areas, fashion competitions, live music, hot air balloons and check presentations to local charities. Team Vineyard Vines and Black Stone Texas were awarded the Charles Heidsieck Champagne and Whispering Angel Rose trophies.

The entire Bert Ogden Auto Group Team was on hand including owners Robert C. and Janet Vackar, who led the Victory Cup Trophy Presentation as well as throwing out of the first polo ball. Bert Ogden Title sponsored this fun event that was held with the support of Radisson Mcallen Airport, the Vela Family, and McAllen Polo! Over 200 guests were able to ride in the hot air balloons on Saturday morning.

The victory cup will be returning early December 2019. Check www.VictoryCup. org for full details and schedule.

WWW.SOCIALIFERGV.COM

WWW.SOCIALIFERGV.COM

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BUILDING OUR COMMUNITY

Through the Arts Our Performing Arts Center is an incredible community resource. Your ongoing support and participation is absolutely essential in providing an extraordinary level of access to the performing arts for the entire community.

Enhance your experience with our membership program while helping keep the arts flourishing in our community.

Your annual donation grants you access to: • Best seats • Drinks on us • Platinum parking • Pre-show dinners • And more Membership starting at $250 per year.

Let us help you select the level that’s right for you.

Contact Jessica Gonzalez at 956.681.3806

www.mcallenpac.net | 801 Convention Center Blvd. | McAllen, TX 78501 |

McAllen PAC

Juan Ramon A. MORI:CORPORATE CHEF

INSIDE THE KITCHEN:MORI Mori Japanese Grill brings the Valley’s first robata grill

Photography by Christian Möller

What is Robata?

Is this a first for the Area?

What makes Mori Unique?

The Robata style of cooking meat over coals originates from a centuries-old country style of cooking by northern Japanese fishers around a communal hearth.

The fishermen needed a way to cook on the boats, so they encased binchōtan coals in a stone box to protect the boat from the intense heat (1000ºF). Robata continues to be a traditional and very popular form of cooking in Japan.

Opening soon at Savor at La Plaza Mall, Mori will be open their Robata grill and dining experience to the Rio Grande Valley. With an expansive menu including Robata, raw bar and sushi, Mori will offer diners a unique but familiar experience. Mori is brought to you by the team at Kumori who have been part of the fabric of Rio Grande Valley dining for over twenty years.

Chef Juan Ramon brings his extensive background in Japanese cuisine to the forefront at Mori. “ The Japanese Robata style of cooking has always been close to my heart, it truly offers a glimpse into the rich history of the Japanese food culture.

The Robata style of cooking over Japanese coals with premium cuts of meat and seasoning delivers that tender, smoky, salty food experience that we hold close here in Texas, as true aficionados of BBQ.” From Black Alaskan King Crab to Scallops, Scottish Salmon Nigiri, to Robata ribs, Black Angus beef Ribeye, NY Strip and American Wagyu, Mori will offer a dining experience like no other in the area.

binchōtan coals reaching 1000ºF

GLAZED SALMON

SUZUKI CITRUS

OPENING SOON

SHORT RIB

RIB EYE STEAK

L A P L A Z A M A L L : S AV O R 2200 S 10th St McAllen, T X 78503 w w w. M o r i R G V. c o m

Hometown Smiles. World Class Travel.

MEXICO CITY NON-STOP FROM MCALLEN AEROMAR

McAllen International Airport is the only South Texas Airport with Non-Stop Connections to Mexico City, Los Angeles, Orlando, and Las Vegas

LOS ANGELES NON-STOP FROM MCALLEN JUN – AUG ALLEGIANT

LAS VEGAS NON-STOP FROM MCALLEN ALLEGIANT

ORLANDO NON-STOP FROM MCALLEN MAY-AUG ALLEGIANT

AEROMAR • ALLEGIANT • AMERICAN AIRLINES • UNITED AIRLINES www.mcallenairport.com

Hometown Smiles. World Class Travel.

AEROMAR HAS INCREDIBLY LOW FARES TO MEXICO

MEXICO CITY NON-STOP FROM MCALLEN

AS LOW AS

$250* * Visit: www.mcallen.org

Limited tickets available for a limited time. Some restrictions apply.

PUERTO ESCONDIDO

OAXACA

SAN LUIS POTOSI

IXTAPA/ZIHUATANEJO

AEROMAR • ALLEGIANT • AMERICAN AIRLINES • UNITED AIRLINES www.mcallenairport.com

RGV HISPANIC CHAMBER’S MANIC MONDAY AT

LA QUINTA INN & SUITES CONVENTION CENTER McAllen Photography by Dustin Coronado

The Rio Grande Valley Hispanic Chamber of Commerce hosted their monthly networking mixer at La Quinta Inn & Suites at the Convention Center.

With an afternoon of connecting with other people in the community, food, music and conversation, the event was an excellent place to be for leads and business growth opportunities.

YOLANDA GUZMAN AND ALAN SANCHEZ

LUIS AND JENNIFER FLORES

JC SILVA, YESSICA MOLINA, ALI MIAN, AND SYDNEY WEBER

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MARI RAMIREZ AND MARISA RIVERA

JOSE MUNOZ, JEFF RIVIERA, AND JUAN ADALPE

WWW.SOCIALIFERGV.COM

RGV Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Proudly Presents:

Women of Distinction Awards Dinner Government

Education

Justice Gina Benavides

Dr. Marla Guerra

13th Court of Appeals

Retired Superintendent

Humanitarian

Entrepreneur

Debi Lou Chavez

Annette Franz

Debi lou productions

Self Employed

Professional

Health

Michelle Lea Zamora

Dr. Linda Villarreal

vANTAGE BANK TEXAS

INTERNAL MEDICINE

Arts & Entertainment

Rising Star

Mitch D'arte

Amanda Quintanilla

Local Artist

UTRGV Police Dept

Thursday, June 6, 2019 Doble Tree Suites Hotel 1800 South 2nd St. McAllen, TXÂ

Tickets $50 Reserved Table of 8 $600 For sponsorship and ticket information call the RGV Hispanic Chamber of Commerce 956.928.0060 or email chamber@rgvhcc.com

6:00pm-8:00pm

Gold $3,000 3 tables of 8 Company name/logo on shopping bags Full Page ad in program book Recognition in all media & event page (TV Commercial,newspapers and posters) 1 display table Podium time

Vendor Table Members - $150 Non Members -$200 6:00pm-8:00pm 1 Display Table 2 Chairs Recognition in program book 2 Complimentary Meal Tickets

Silver $2,000

2 tables of 8 Full Page ad in program Book Recognition in all media & event page (TV Commercial,newspapers and posters) 1 display table

Program Book Ad Full Page - $200 Half Page - $100 1/4 Page - $50

Bronze $1,000

1 table of 8 1/2 page ad in program book Recognition in all media & event page (TV Commercial,newspapers and posters) 1 display table

ALLIE GONZALEZ GOES TO MISS USA Mission Photography by Sergio Arratia

Debi Lou Productions had a “Send Off To Miss USA” party for Allie Gonzalez, Miss New Mexico USA. The event was held at the Chavez residence. Allie will be competing at the Miss USA Pageant on May 2, 2019, in Reno, Nevada. Allie is a former Miss McAllen, Miss Rio Grande Valley, Miss South Texas and Miss Tropics of Texas.

DEBI LOU CHAVEZ AND MISS NEW MEXICO ALLY GONZALES

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WWW.SOCIALIFERGV.COM

(956) 994-9370

THE 3B’S: BEATLES, BRAHMS & BEETHOVEN THE VSO SEASON FINALE McAllen Photography by Sergio Arratia

VANESA RIVERA AND RAY PEREZ

The Valley Symphony Orchestra hosted an evening of inspiring and masterful music, performed by the musicians of the Rio Grande Valley at the McAllen Performing Arts Center. The season finale featured some of the world’s greatest composers - classical or modern! Music lovers joined Maestro Peter Dabrowski and the Symphony and Chorale for an evening featuring the music of The Beatles, Beethoven’s iconic “Ode to Joy,” and Brahms’ sparkling “Academic Festival Overture.”

DR ARMOUR AND SUSAN FORCE

GERRIE IRITTS AND JANE SCHWARZ

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WWW.SOCIALIFERGV.COM

Call the VSO at (956) 661-1615 today to subscribe!

Hope is a Thing of Feathers

The Gray Hawk

By: Quinta Mazatlan –Center for Urban Ecology If you have ever seen a Peregrine Falcon strafing low over wetlands, a White-tailed Kite suspended perfectly in place over a field, or a Crested Caracara rising up from carrion like royalty, then you know that birds of prey are captivating animals.

Here in the Lower Rio Grande Valley we have a wealth of raptors throughout the year.

One in particular is often on the target list for eco-tourists, and is one of the most beautiful: the Gray Hawk.

This stunningly plumaged bird typically dwells in the mature, semi-open woodlands that once dominated the Lower Rio Grande Valley (but are now scarce due to habitat loss). The Gray Hawk uses its broad wings to help maneuver through our Thorn Forests, where it searches for reptilian prey.

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M

Like many raptors, Gray Hawks will build a bulky nest made up of twigs. They lay 2-3

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eggs, and the young hatch out in what is called a “semialtricial” state – this means

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that unlike purely altricial birds (such as a Northern Mockingbird), they are not born

MY

naked. Rather, they have a layer of down feathers. But unlike the downy, precocial

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young of the Plain Chachalaca that can leave the nest after only a couple hours, the

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Gray Hawk young are dependent on their parents to provide food.

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Interestingly, while Gray Hawks typically occupy large tracts of woodlands, during recent decades they appear to be using the LRGV’s urban “forests”. While not a common sight, we have seen a family of Gray Hawks near Quinta Mazatlan in McAllen, as well as in nearby south McAllen neighborhoods. These older, more vegetated, residential areas are showing us an important link; of how, with the right planning (and planting!) we can turn our neighborhoods and parks into areas that native wildlife can prosper. To quote Dr. Douglas Tallamy of the award-winning book Bringing Nature Home, “Your small plot is connected to other plots, which are connected to others and others and others. Collectively they are N.A.! Changing the plant base of all suburbia is quite an undertaking but all you have to worry about is your eighth of an acre.”

Whenever you see a Gray Hawk or hear its lovely song we hope you will feel a deep appreciation and wonder for our local wildlife, but also with hope – in the words of Emily Dickenson,

Quinta Mazatlán World Birding Center works to enrich

“Hope is a thing with feathers.”

people’s lives by sharing knowledge about birds, plants and environmental stewardship in south Texas.

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WWW.SOCIALIFERGV.COM

2019 QUINTA MAZATLAN

Summer SCIENCE SERIES Enrichment Programs Throughout the Summer for all Ages FAMILY FUN (Included in Park Admission)

NATURE DISCOVERY CAMPS

REGISTER ONLINE: www.mcallenparks.net TIME: 8:30 am to 11:30 am FEE: $30 Resident, $40 Non-Resident Ages 6-9 Dinosaur Camp Camp Quinta Wild ART Camp Dinosaur Camp Camp Quinta Wild ART Camp Ages 10-12 Science Camp Academy Dinosaur Camp Camp Quinta Wild ART Camp Science Camp Academy Dinosaur Camp

Flashlight Nights, Tuesdays Nature Nuggets, Thursdays or Saturdays Thursday Evening Explorations, Thursdays Photo Fun Fridays, Fridays Nature Detective Walk, Saturdays Feature Creatures, Saturdays

8:30 pm to 10:00 pm 10:00 a.m.

7:00 p.m.

10:00 am. to 12:00 p.m.

9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.

1:30 p.m. or 3:30 p.m.

//////////////////

June 11-14 June 18-21 June 25-28 July 9-12 July 16-19 July 23-26

MINI MORNING FUN FESTS

First Saturday of Each Month, 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.

--Pollinator Morning, June 1st --Birding Morning, July 6th --Reptile Rendezvous Morning, August 3rd //////////////////

June 11-14 June 18-21 June 25-28 July 9-12 July16-19 July 23-26

/////////////

VOLUNTEER & LEADERSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

NATURE PASSPORT—FREE for Kids

Explore the sanctuary at your own pace with a fun, self-guided scavenger hunt booklet! Complete for a PRIZE! //////////////////

SCOUT BADGES/YOUTH GROUPS/SCHOOL PROGRAMS The science driven curriculum is geared for specific age groups.

Contact Analisa Henrichson, AHenrichson@mcallen.net

NATURE NURTURE Youth can earn School Credit over the Summer by Volunteering and Learning!

Contact Kassandra Rodriguez, Krodriguez@mcallen.net LOW ROPES LEADERSHIP COURSE The course if a fun team building exercise offered by trained facilitators.

Contact Nora Leos, nleos@mcallen.net

World Birding Center in McAllen Hours Tuesday – Saturday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Thursdays until Dark 600 Sunset Drive, McAllen, TX | 956-681-3370

www.quintamazatlan.com

CJS MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP FUND 5K BUNNYDASH

Edinburg Photography by Haron Saenz

NICOLETTE MUNOZ AND JESSE SEGOVIA

The Cynthia Jean Salinas Memorial Scholarship Fund is a non profit organization which concentrates its efforts in awarding deserving ECISD female student athletes with high academic achievement, athletic participation and strong community service. The organization also strives to bring awareness to issues surrounding families dealing with domestic violence. The family & friends of Cynthia Jean Salinas commemorate her life by engaging in fundraisers like the 4th Annual CJS 5K Run/Walk. Cynthia, an ER Nurse and mother, lost her life due to domestic violence on December 27, 2012.

TIA ENE SALINAS, TIA SANDRA SALINAS, AND RAYMOND LEE REGALADO

KYTTY ALCALA, MAUI GONZALEZ, NAOMI THE BUNNY, AND ETHAN MARTINEZ

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WWW.SOCIALIFERGV.COM

family deal

4 FOR $44*

FOUR TICKETS • FOUR HOT DOGS FOUR DRINKS • FOUR BAGS OF CHIPS *WHILE SUPPLIES LAST.

jun

15

jun

22

jul

06

jul

13

ALL GAMES START AT 7:30PM PLEASE VISIT:

rgvfc.com

VALLEY LAND TITLE CO.

CELEBRATING THEIR 100TH ANNIVERSARY Edinburg Photography by Haron Saenz

April 4th marked Valley Land Title Co.’s 100th Birthday Bash Fiesta celebration.

The VLTC staff hosted over 600 guests at the beautiful Rancho Guadalupe where guests enjoyed the indoor décor and the outdoor scenery and grounds surrounding the venue. In keeping with Valley tradition, the evening was filled with mariachi music and folklorico dancers. Guests were treated to an array of “taquizas” and “postres”, a DJ for dancing, and plenty of comradery.

SAL RANGEL, FELIPE FLORES, SONIA DUARTE, ANNA ORTEGA, AND TOMMY MARTINEZ

KELLY JIMENEZ, NANETTE PALOMO, AND SONIA PECINA

HECTOR CASAS, ECTOR CASAS, AND PAUL RODRIGUEZ

ASHLEY DUBE AND CJ TREVINO

ALBERT GARZA AND TERI SIPES

JASEN HARDISON, LUCERO LATIGO, AND KAREN CARRENO

DAVID TOBAR, LUCY RAMIREZ, DIANA GARCIA, AND FRANK MONTANO

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WWW.SOCIALIFERGV.COM

PHARR TOWN CENTER

500 North Jackson Road, Pharr, Texas 78577

MEDICAL SPACE AVAILABLE - 8,505 SF

For more information: info@levcor.com 713.952.0366

PROPERTY HIGHLIGHTS Located in the booming retail area of Pharr, Texas Located along the highly trafficked N. Jackson Road & Highway 83 470,000 S.F. Shopping Center Anchor tenants include Main Event, Cinemark and Academy Over 3 million visitors to Pharr Town Center a year 1.5 million people live in the Rio Grande Valley There are over 5 million people within an hour’s drive from our center across the border that come to Pharr to shop and eat.

• Jackson Road is on of the main thoroughfares from Mexico that leads right into our project.

• • • • • • •

Traffic Counts

124,000 cpd - US Expressway 83 25,000 cpd - North Jackson Road

Parking Provided Parking Ra�o

Consumer Expenditure - Ent. and Rec.

Average

3,381 9.6 / 1,000 cars

Index

Total

Entertainment/Recrea�on

$5,165

166 $81,143,703

Entertainment/Recrea�on-Fees & Admissions

$1,154

181 $18,135,780

Celebrating One Hundred Years EST. 1919 www.ValleyLandTitleCo.com

Former Capital One Bank - Retail - Harlingen

Valencia Marketplace - Mixed Use - McAllen

The District at McAllen - Mixed Use - McAllen

Las Palmas Retail – Retail - Brownsville

Valle Vista Mall – Mixed Use - Harlingen

Cornerstone Plaza – Mixed Use - Edinburg

This former Capital One Bank location sits within Harlingen’s retail corridor and was recently converted to general retail.

James Avery has committed to a long-term lease and has opened its second Cameron County location, directly in front of Valle Vista Mall on Dixieland Avenue.

This beautiful, McAllen Neighborhood Center is home to Texas’ largest, and the Rio Grande Valley’s only, UFC Gym. The Center is anchored by Wellmed, and has recently undergone extensive, capital improvements. Perfect for retail, medical, and office tenants.

Under new Ownership and Management, Valle Vista Mall is a unique opportunity located in the heart of Harlingen, Texas.

Valle Vista Mall is perfectly situated at the Intersection of I-77 and I-2 and is located adjacent to Harlingen Corners and Bass Pro Shops. Perfect for retail, medical, and institutional users.

Valencia Marketplace is a Sam’s Club anchored shopping center in the Heart of North McAllen’s busiest retail districts.

The Strip Center is anchored by Arri Fitness and is perfect for any retail, professional service, or office user.

The Las Palmas Retail Center is a new-construction development in the heart of Brownsville, Texas’ rapidly growing Expressway Corridor. The location is prime for any retail, restaurant, or professional service user, and sits in a trade area with high, day-time population.

This mixed-use project in Edinburg, Texas sits just within Edinburg’s Medical and Retail corridors at Cornerstone Medical Park. Cornerstone Plaza sits with frontage on Cornerstone Boulevard and Trenton Road, and is ideal for restaurant, retail, office, and medical.

DANIEL GALVAN, CCIM | 956.451.2983 | dgalvan@cbcworldwide.com

www.cbcworldwide.com

Listing information provided by Coldwell Banker Commercial RGV. Information is deemed to be reliable but is not guaranteed. ©2018 Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC, dba Coldwell Banker Commercial Affiliates. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC, dba Coldwell Banker Commercial Affiliates fully supports the principles of the Equal Opportunity Act. Each Office is Independently Owned and Operated. Coldwell Banker Commercial and the Coldwell Banker Commercial Logo are registered service marks owned by Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC, dba Coldwell Banker Commercial Affiliates.

5601 N. 4th Street : McAllen, TX 78504

$825,000

MLS #314345

Neighborhood: Tuscany Estates

Gonzalez Elementary School

North McAllen

This luxurious 6 bedroom, 5 1/2 bath estate is a dream home that sits on a 1/2 acre lot in Tuscany Estates. Spanning close to 6,000 sqft, the magnificent residence is graced with an office, bonus room and gorgeous pool. The home is a masterpiece of design featuring crown molding, granite countertops, hardwood floors and Italian tile throughout.

Sally Fraustro Guerra B R O K E R A S S O C I AT E

REPRESENTING BUYERS + SELLERS COMMERCIAL / RESIDENTIAL (956) 458-0085 (956) 631-1322 sally.guerra@coldwellbanker.com

Meet The Team

Ronnie Ontiveros (956) 283-6338

Alejandra Cobos (956) 802-1982

Alicia Villarreal (956) 867-1565

Arnold Del Toro (956) 451-9018

Audra Vega (210) 708-4563

Joyce Benites (956) 283-6338

Benny Garcia (956) 490-9893

Cindy Cantu (956) 283-6338

Denisse Guzman (956) 784-1118

James Captaincies Jr. (956) 683-5824

Jessica Pederson (956) 821-0103

Joselyn Martinez (956) 227-1077

Nora Flores (956) 777-8361

Karina Martinez (956) 562-4736

Laura Bazan (956) 560-1302

Mando Hernandez (956) 280-3089

Miguel A. Trujillo (956) 628-4663

Natalli Rodriguez (956) 961-6588

Scarlett Pardo (956) 628-4663

Shane James (956) 867-6876

Rebeca Siller (956) 522-7257

Reynaldo Ortiz (956) 628-4663

Tom Brownmiller (956) 250-2590

2405 W. Hampton Avenue Edinburg, Texas 78539

2420 E. Sycamore Avenue Mission, Texas 78572

1201 Harbor Lane La Joya, Texas 78560

ELEGANT HOME

EXCELLENT LOCATION

FAMILY HOME

5 Bed 4 Bath 1 1/2 Bath 4,485 SF MLS 303072 $750,000

5 Bed 4 Bath 1 1/2 Bath 6,815 SF MLS 303880 $425,000

2 Bed 2 Bath 1,483 SF MLS 314051 $122,000

RGV Locations 202 West Queen Isabella Blvd.

Port Isabel, TX 78578

5400 Ware Road, Suite 70 McAllen, Texas 78504

Office: (956) 283-6338

Office: (956) 283-6338

https://www.facebook.com/nexthomergvrealty/ www.nexthomergv.com

4300 south j st, McAllen

virtual tour, visit: McAllenDreamHomes.com

4 BR

5 BA

2 HB

.78 AC

9,424 SQ.FT

private gym // wine cellar // 18 seat theatre // private office

listed $2,000,000

NACOLE RICKS LUXURY GROUP $1,000,000

$597,000

956.207.0456

$475,000

McAllenDreamHouse.com

$455,000

RIO GRANDE VALLEY VIPERS CELEBRATED 3RD CHAMPIONSHIP TITLE Edinburg Photography by Haron Saenz

On Sunday, April 14th, the RGV Vipers were greeted by emotional fans as they entered the Bert Ogden Arena atop two fire trucks for a community celebration in honor of the Valley’s basketball heroes. The RGV Vipers celebrated their 3rd championship title after they defeated the Long Island Nets, who had home court advantage, with a final score of 129-112 in the NBA G League Finals. The RGV Vipers is the franchise with the most championship title wins in the League, winning in 2010, 2013 & 2019. This years’ celebration went on with the presentation of the trophy, player and staff recognition, and a meet and greet/autograph session open to all fans in attendance. It was a remarkable year for the team, and it would not have been possible without the love and support of loyal fans, sponsors, and media partners.

LILY GARCIA, KASSIE LOZANO, VIVA SELENA LOPEZ, AND ISAIAH CANO

NEIRA GARCIA AND JUSTIN GONZALES

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SOCIALIFE

JULIO HERNANDEZ AND YAJAIRA FLORES

CADEN CORWIN AND JULIE CORWIN

MIREYA LOZANO, LILY RODRIGUEZ, LUCY RODRIGUEZ, AND AGUSTIN LOZANO JR

SYLVIA ARJONA, BEN ARJONA, MARC SOLIS, AND RICKY ARJONA

WWW.SOCIALIFERGV.COM

UP C OMING EVENTS

JENNIFER LOPEZ JUNE 22 @ 8:00PM

LUIS MIGUEL

JUNE 30 @ 8:00PM

PEPE AGUILAR

AUGUST 17 @ 8:00PM

JOJO SIWA

SEPTEMBER 15 @ 7:00PM

MALUMA

SEPTEMBER 26 @ 8:00PM

GREATER

SEPTEMBER 28 @ 7:00PM

MANÁ

NOVEMBER 14 @ 8:00PM

B U Y YO U R T I C K ETS AT B E RTO G D EN A R EN A .C O M

May 24

June 8

July 7

RGV Food Bank Edinburg Municipal Park 8:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

McAllen Convention Center 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

McAllen Convention Center 12:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.

5K COLOR BASH 2019

May 24 - 25

EDINBURG MUSIC FEST Edinburg City Hall 6:00 p.m. - 11:30 p.m.

May 25

GLOBAL 6K FOR WATER World vision Edinburg Municipal Park Save the Date

May 26

LA GUZMAN TOUR 2019 Bert Ogden Arena 7:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.

May 27

PHARR MEMORIAL DAY CEREMONY City of Pharr Memorial Park 9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.

May 29

CONGRESSIONAL LEGISLATIVE LUNCHEON

21 ANNUAL HOME BUYER’S FAIR

June 10

KINKY BOOTS - THE MUSICAL McAllen Performing Arts Center 7:30 p.m. - 10:30 p.m.

June 12

CHICAGO THE MUSICAL

McAllen Performing Arts Center 7:30 p.m.

June 13

SUMMER NIGHTS AT THE MUSEUM: RIVER FRONTIER Museum of South Texas History 6:30 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

DUCKHORN WINE DINNER

Santa Fe Steakhouse & Cantina 7:00 p.m.

June 20

BUENAS TARDES LUNCHEON

Greater Mission Chamber of Commerce Save the Date

THE PRISONER WINE DINNER

McAllen Chamber of Commerce Save the Date

Bob’s Steak & Chop House 7:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.

May 30

June 22

Greater Mission Chamber of Commerce Mission Valley Nursing & transitional Cara Save the Date

Bert Ogden Arena 8:00 p.m.

June 2

LEGISLATIVE SESSION WRAP-UP LUNCHEON

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT MIXER

CARMEN - OPERA

JENNIFER LOPEZ - IT’S MY PARTY TOUR

June 26

UTRGV PAC - Edinburg 2:00 p.m.

McAllen Chamber of Commerce Save the Date

June 6

June 28

McAllen Chamber of Commerce 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Save the Date

Hope Family Health Center 6:30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.

COMMUNITY RESOURCE FAIR

LUIS MIGUEL TOUR 2019

GOOD DAY MCALLEN LUNCHEON

BUILDrgv 4:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

WOMEN OF DISTINCTION AWARDS DINNER RGV Hispanic Chamber of Commerce DoubleTree Suites by Hilton 6:00 p.m. - 8:oo p.m.

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SOCIALIFE

ART & WINE FESTIVAL

June 30

Bert Ogden Arena 7:00 p.m.

July 6

ALEGRIA 2019

Ballet Folklorico UTRGV UTRGV Performing Arts Complex 7:30 p.m.

RGV POKEFEST 2019

July 9

KIND GIRLS... A WORKSHOP FOR LITTLE GIRLS Angels of Love The Grand Banquet & Conference Center 9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

July 13

6TH ANNUAL FRIDAFEST

Edinburg Cultural Arts Sam Houston Grounds Edinburg 6:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m.

DIALOGUES WITH MOTHER EARTH: THE MURALS BY ERICA DABORN International Museum of Art & Science Save the Date

July 15-18

44TH ANNUAL TCPA CONFERENCE

South Texas Crime Prevention Association DoubleTree By Hilton Save the Date

July 17

EXPECT RESPECT: A TEEN LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE Angels of Love RGV Southern Texas Careers Academy 9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

July 19-21

TEXAS HUNTERS & SPORTSMAN’S EXPO McAllen Convention Center Save the Date

July 24-28 MXLAN

McAllen Convention Center 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 a.m.

August 3

VIVA MCALLEN STREETS McAllen Crime Stoppers McAllen Convention Center Save the Date

August 8

BUENAS TARDES LUNCHEON

Greater Mission Chamber of Commerce Save the Date

August 17

PEPE AGUILAR

Bert Ogden Arena 8:00 p.m.

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

2020

September 4 - 7

October 4-6

Edinburg Cultural Arts Save the Date

Hispanic Women’s Network of Texas Embassy Suites McAllen Save the Date

September 12

October 10

Scott Crane Memorial Run Save the Date

McAllen Convention Center 11:00 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.

Greater Mission Chamber of Commerce Save the Date

January 28

September 14

October 11

McAllen Performing Arts 7:30 p.m.

IMAS Edinburg Conference Center at Renaissance 6:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m.

Mission Event Center 7:30 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

February 28

October 12

Valley Symphony Orchestra Save the Date

Edinburg City Hall 6:30 p.m. - 10:30 p.m.

March 3

October 18

McAllen Performing Arts 7:30 p.m.

McAllen Performing Arts 8:00 p.m.

March 8

5TH ANNUAL SOUTH TEXAS INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL

MCALLEN BUSINESS EXPO

IMAS COLLAGE ANNUAL GALA

September 15 JOJO SIWA

Bert Ogden Arena 7:00 p.m.

September 17

EMPTY BOWLS 2019 RGV Food Bank Pharr Event Center 11:00 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.

September 18

LATINA LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE 2019 RGV Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Edinburg Conference Center at Renaissance 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

33RD ANNUAL STATE CONFERENCE

MISSION CHAMBER ANNUAL BANQUET

LIVE2LEAD 2019

UNIVERSITY DRAFTHOUSE BEERFEST

CATS - THE MUSICAL

October 25

JAMES BOND MEETS BRAHMS Valley Symphony Orchestra Save the Date

October 26

WE WILL ROCK YOU - THE MUSICAL

September 20

McAllen Performing Arts 8:00 p.m.

Honig Wine Dinner 7:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.

November 14

September 21

Bert Ogden Arena 8:00 p.m.

BOB’S STEAK HOUSE & CHOP

SADDLE UP UNDER THE MOONLIGHT CATTLE BARON’S BALL 2019 American Cancer Society Sofie’s “S.S.” Saloon 6:00 p.m.- 11:00 p.m.

September 26 MALUMA 11:11

Bert Ogden Arena 7:00 p.m.

September 27

BACK TO SCHOOL

Valley Symphony Orchestra Save the Date

September 28 GREATER

Bert Ogden Arena 7:00 p.m.

MANA: RAYANDO EL SOL 2019 TOUR

December 2

THE BLUE MAN GROUP McAllen Performing Arts 7:30 p.m.

December 10

A CHARLIE BROWN CHRISTMAS LIVE ON STAGE McAllen Performing Arts 7:00 p.m.

December 13

A TOUCH OF FROST

Valley Symphony Orchestra Save the Date

January 19

MCALLEN MARATHON

FINDING NEVERLAND - THE MUSICAL

INDIANA JONES AND THE WILD WEST

JERSEY BOYS

THE ILLUSIONISTS - LIVE FROM BROADWAY McAllen Performing Arts 7:00 p.m.

March 15

BEAUTIFUL- THE CAROL KING MUSICAL McAllen Performing Arts 7:00 p.m.

March 27

DESIGNED BY DABROWSKY Valley Symphony Orchestra Save the Date

April 14

12TH ANNUAL NIGHT AT THE BREW-SEUM IMAS 7:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m.

April 28

RENT - THE MUSICAL 20th Anniversary Tour McAllen Performing Arts 7:30 p.m.

May 1

RAIN: A TRIBUTE TO THE BEATLES McAllen Performing Arts 8:00 p.m.

December 29

GREAT RUSSIAN NUTCRACKER McAllen Performing Arts 5:00 p.m.

SOCIALIFE 93