Struggling to lose weight through diet and exercise? Weight-loss surgery offers hope. For some, it is the first step in achieving optimal weight and improving or preventing serious health conditions linked to obesity.
South Texas Health System® Clinics is pleased to offer weight-loss surgery with Miguel Rodriguez, DO. A board-certified surgeon, Dr. Rodriguez also provides the following services:
• Appendectomy
• Colorectal surgery
• Foregut surgery
• General surgery
New Location!
• Hernia repair
STHS Clinics General Surgery & Weight Loss Center McAllen 1801 S. 5th St. | McAllen, TX 78503
Accepting New Patients
• Minimally invasive/ laparoscopic and robotic surgery TO MAKE AN APPOINTMENT: Schedule online at sthsclinics.com or scan the QR Code
Accepts Medicare, Medicaid and most medical insurance plans
Dr Barbara Baggerly-Hinojosa
Dr Ruben Castro
Dr Kimberly Selber
Colleen Hook, Quinta Mazatlan
Alyssa Cerroni, Yaqui
Photographer Cliff Ranson, SOCIALIFE Publisher/President Sally Fraustro Guerra set up the perfect Gig ‘Em shot with Texas A&M McAllen leadership, Rick Margo, Ernie Aliseda, & Dr. Sandra Hansmann.
LOCATION:
UTRGV Performing Arts Complex 1201 W. University Dr. Edinburg, TX 78539
GLITTER & GLAMOUR: CASA GALA SHINES FOR CHILDREN IN FOSTER CARE
Photography by Jacqueline Wallace
CASA of Hidalgo County hosted its sparkling Sequins & Saddles Gala on August 14 at the McAllen Convention Center, bringing together supporters for a night to benefit children in foster care. Guests enjoyed festive casino games, an exciting silent and live auction, dinner, and dancing—all in celebration of CASA’s mission to give every child a voice.
The evening honored Judge Carlos Villalon Jr. for his outstanding service to children and families. Proceeds from this unforgettable event will strengthen CASA’s efforts to recruit, train, and support volunteer advocates across Hidalgo County.
FORD SASSER, MARK MURRAY & MCALLEN COMMISSIONER SEBY HADDAD
FRANK LOPEZ, RICARDO HERNANDEZ, IGNACIO MENDOZA JR & BRITNY MENDOZA
GABRIEL ALFARO & JEANETTE ALFARO
OSCAR HINOJOSA & PRIYA GOVIND
MAYOR JAVIER VILLALOBOS & ANNETTE VILLALOBOS
ELEVATING LUXURY: GENESIS OF HARLINGEN OPENS ITS DOORS
Photography by Jacqueline Wallace
The Bert Ogden Auto Group proudly announces the grand opening of Genesis of Harlingen, the Valley’s first and only Genesis dealership. Located at 8621 W. Expressway 83, this sleek new facility delivers a state-of-the-art luxury automotive experience to South Texas. Chairman Robert Vackar, President Janet Ogden Vackar, and CEO Natasha del Barrio celebrated the milestone, noting the dealership’s blend of innovation, style, and award-winning service. With Genesis, the Bert Ogden Auto Group continues its tradition of growth and excellence while redefining luxury for the Rio Grande Valley. Visit Genesis of Harlingen Monday–Saturday, or anytime online at genesisofharlingen.com.
CAMERON F WAGNER & JONATHAN PAYNE
ADRIAN BRODY, PABLO AGUILAR & NICOLAS TELLEZ
NORMA GAMBOA
Mission Event Center 200 N. Shary Road Mission, Texas OCTOBER 16, 2025
The South Texas College Foundation reserves the right to determine the specific allocation of funds based on its needs and priorities. Contributions are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law.
WE PUT Kids First
When your child is ill or injured, know that South Texas Health System® Children’s is right here – just like we have been for nearly two decades.
FIRST IN THE REGION TO PUT KIDS FIRST
Since opening our doors in 2006, we have been providing quality pediatric care in a kid-friendly setting that helps put young patients (and their families) at ease. We are especially proud to have been the first in the area with a dedicated pediatric emergency department.
SPECIALTY SERVICES PARENTS TRUST
In addition to providing just-for-kids emergency care and being an Asthma Center of Excellence, we offer a wide range of specialty pediatric services, including everything from gastroenterology to sports medicine to cardiology and beyond.
DESIGNED WITH KIDS IN MIND
Being in the hospital can be stressful for children and their families. We provide a colorful, comfortable atmosphere, with large pediatric playrooms, an outdoor Children’s Healing Garden and a virtual playroom that lets patients take part in activities from the comfort of their room.
Learn more about our services at southtexashealthsystemchildrens.com
South Texas Health System
Children’s, a trusted member of the Valley community, has been providing healing and hope for kids since 2006.
The Right to LEARN:
A History of Education in South Texas
By Sandy Pollock, MOSTHistory Communications Officer
Thisfall, the Museum of South Texas History will open a powerful new exhibition, The Right to LEARN: A History of Education in South Texas. The exhibition explores how generations of South Texans fought for access to education, highlighting the people, policies, and pivotal moments that shaped the classroom experience and learning across the region.
Education in South Texas has always been more than textbooks and desks. From Spanish colonial missions to rural ranch schools, from escuelitas to fully developed public districts, families believed in the promise of an education. Yet that promise was not always evenly shared. Through artifacts, photographs, and oral histories, the exhibit brings forward stories of struggle and determination, showing how communities worked to open doors once closed.
Visitors will encounter landmark court cases that set up new precedents, including the voices of students and parents who challenged unequal systems. Displays will spotlight the pioneers of bilingual education and the rise of programs that recognized the cultural and linguistic heritage of students from South Texas. Higher education also plays a central role, tracing the growth of local colleges and universities that became engines of opportunity.
A special section will honor Congressman Rubén Hinojosa, who represented Texas’s 15th District in Washington for two decades. Known as a champion of education, Hinojosa secured funding and support for countless initiatives, from financial aid programs to resources for underserved schools. His legacy continues to shape the lives of students
across the Rio Grande Valley and beyond.
Curated with care by Jenarae Bautista and presented with support from H-E-B, The Right to LEARN connects local stories to national conversations about equity, leadership, and the power of education to transform lives.
CEO Dr. Francisco Guajardo said, “When you study the history of education in South Texas, you uncover a story of resilience. Families here believed that learning was a right worth fighting for.”
The exhibition opens to the public on Friday, September 19, 2025.
By tracing the past and honoring those who refused to give up on the idea of a better education, The Right to LEARN invites all of us to consider what it truly means to learn, to teach, and to lead.
EDINBURG POLICE DEPARTMENT HOSTS 29TH ANNUAL NATIONAL NIGHT OUT
The Edinburg Police Department recently celebrated its 29th Annual National Night Out at Promenade Park Amphitheater, drawing families from across the city for an evening of community, connection, and celebration.
The event featured food, family fun, safety demonstrations, and live entertainment, highlighted by performances from the Fabulous Cruisers and a special appearance by Edinburg’s own Bobby Pulido.
“National Night Out is more than a celebration — it’s about building trust, sharing safety resources, and making lasting connections,” said Police Chief Jaime Ayala.
Families enjoyed a car show, kids’ games, carnival rides, and a variety of local food vendors. Hundreds of free backpacks and school supplies were also distributed, adding to the excitement as students prepared for the new school year.
WESLACO WELCOMES A NEW ERA OF RETAIL
Mayor Adrian Gonzalez joined Sam’s Club executives, the City Commission, and the Economic Development Corporation of Weslaco Board of Directors to break ground on a new $46.5 million Sam’s Club in Weslaco. The 164,000-square-foot facility at Barbee Drive and FM 1015 will bring over 200 permanent jobs and expanded shopping options to the Mid-Valley. Designed to provide value, convenience, and a modern retail experience, the project is expected to have a positive impact on local families and businesses. The city looks forward to seeing this exciting development move forward and benefit the community.
PROUDLY PRESENTS THE 18 ANNUAL TH
Dancing with the Stars of Hidalgo County
Saturday, October 18, 2025 - Mission Event Center - 6 PM
Dr. Monzer Yazji Dr. Juan Serrato Grecia Padilla
Dr. Henry Herrera Iliana Villalobos Laura Disque
Zeke Moya Abraham Garcia Claudia Lopez Judge Lucy Regalado Dr. Praveen Vijhant Benito Lopez, PA-C
Dr. Rebecca Trevino, DDS Sandy Torres Dr. Daniel Contreras, MD Moises Segovia Regina “Regi” Richardson Thelma Tamez
Planta Nativa Month in McAllen
By Colleen Hook, Executive Director, Quinta Mazatlán
Walkingthrough one of the City of McAllen’s Tiny Forests might reveal a Great Kiskadee, bright yellow against a dense thicket of green, foraging in a tree. A variety of insects may also be observed — more visible the slower one moves — living among the over 30 native plant species included in the planted forest: native solitary bees buzzing from flower to flower; beetles clambering over leaves; a mantis waiting for its prey. With all that life, it is easy to assume the forest has always existed, even though it was planted in early 2023.
That is the power of native plants. In just over two years, a typical Rio Grande Valley urban roadside — a regularly mowed mix of invasive grasses and small patches of seasonal wildflowers — transformed into a forested network of life, full of species interacting within less than an acre of habitat. Temperatures in the forest can be up to 10 degrees cooler than the surrounding heat (or warmer during brief cold snaps).
This transformation is the focus of Planta Nativa Month in the City of McAllen—the ability to modify landscapes for the benefit of both people and wildlife. Throughout October, Quinta Mazatlan will host a diverse array of events, family programs, plant giveaways, and more to raise awareness about native plants and encourage their use at homes, businesses, schools, and other community spaces.
Weekly programs will include Thursday evening presentations by native plant experts. Attendees can take home a free native
plant while supplies last. The plant selections include a
Quinta Mazatlan staff will also offer weekly activities, including Forest Tots on Tuesdays and Thursdays, Walk with a Naturalist on Wednesdays, and STEM Stops on Saturdays. Each session will focus on native plants, from seed development to their ecological benefits.
On Oct. 16, Quinta Mazatlan will welcome Pam Penick — author and advocate for climateresilient gardens — for a keynote presentation and book signing during the Planta Nativa VIP (Very Important Plants) Night. With nearly two decades of experience designing waterwise and wildlifefriendly landscapes, Penick will share practical strategies for creating gardens that endure challenges and grow stronger. Her presentation draws from her latest book, Gardens of Texas: Visions of Resilience from the Lone Star State, and aims to inspire resilience in local landscapes.
The VIP Night will also feature native plant sales, seed giveaways, a marketplace with food and wine vendors, educational booths and research posters, plus live music — all in the historical setting of Quinta Mazatlan.
Whether providing joy to gardeners or delivering ecosystem services such as temperature regulation, habitat for wildlife, and pollution mitigation, native plants in the Rio Grande Valley offer lasting value. Planta Nativa Month at Quinta Mazatlan celebrates its power. More information is available at quintamazatlan.com.
mix of perennial wildflowers, butterfly-friendly shrubs, and small trees.
Aggie Spirit. Valley Roots. Texas A&M Higher Education Center at McAllen
By Chris Ardis
In December 2016, Texas A&M University leaders, dignitaries, and community members gathered at Tres Lagos to break ground on what would become the Texas A&M University Higher Education Center at McAllen (HECM). At the time, the 100 acres of land were a blank canvas of South Texas farmland. Less than a year later, 38 pioneering students began their Aggie journeys in McAllen, and the campus officially opened in August 2018.
Rick Margo, a 1989 Texas A&M graduate and the HECM’s first executive director, was part of that founding team. “Our students are 100% Aggies,” Margo says. “They earn the same diploma, the same Aggie ring, and walk the same graduation stage in College Station. What’s different is they do it while staying close to home, surrounded by their families and their Valley community.”
“Our students are 100% Aggies.”
That founding spirit remains central to the campus identity, even as it grows into a dynamic, forward-looking hub of teaching, service, and research. Today, the campus’s academic focus is guided by Dr. Sandra Hansmann, assistant provost and the academic administrator for the McAllen campus, ensuring that programs, faculty, and student support remain aligned with Texas A&M’s standards—making this campus the only Tier One institution in the region.
Leadership and the Aggie Network
Carrying that vision forward is Ernie Aliseda, who became chief operating officer and associate vice president in 2025, overseeing HECM. A 1988 Texas A&M graduate, Aliseda’s career includes service as a state district judge, a lieutenant colonel in the U.S. Army, and general counsel for a major health-care system in the Rio Grande Valley.
“The Aggie core values became the foundation of my career in law, public service, the judiciary, the military, and healthcare,” Aliseda reflects. “At the HECM, we provide students with that same foundation by offering them a Tier One education close to home—one that instills Aggie values and prepares them for leadership in their communities and beyond.”
“The Aggie core values became the foundation of my career.”
No matter how far he travels, Aliseda says, his Aggie ring connects him instantly with others. “That’s the power of the Aggie Network,” he adds, noting that HECM students benefit from joining a family of over half a million Aggies worldwide.
Academic Growth and New Opportunities
Since opening, the campus has grown consistently at 10–15% each year. It now serves more than 500 students across ten start-to-finish undergraduate programs, including engineering, biomedical sciences, construction science, public health, agricultural economics, human resource development, maritime business, education, and, beginning in 2026, nursing.
The new Nursing Education and Research Building—a nearly 61,000-square-foot, $49.9 million facility—will house classrooms, study areas, and a clinical simulation center. The first cohort of nursing students will launch the program in January 2026.
“There is a real need for nurses and other healthcare providers in the Valley,” says Hansmann. “We are building care capacity in Texas. Aggie nurses, public health, and biomedical sciences students are uniquely prepared because we admit holistically and expect them to learn and embody Aggie values—respect, excellence, leadership, loyalty, integrity, and selfless service. That shapes the kind of student, and the kind of leader, who graduates from Texas A&M.”
“Aggie students are uniquely prepared.”
Biomedical and public health students learn in state-ofthe-art labs, while engineering majors take on design projects that partner with local industries. Construction science students gain real-world skills in one of the Valley’s fastest-growing sectors, while agricultural economics students study the business side of industries that sustain the region. Education and human resource development majors shape future leaders and build capacity for schools and employers across South Texas.
A Personal, Student-Centered Experience
While Texas A&M in College Station has a student body of more than 70,000, HECM’s small scale is an advantage. “Our largest classroom holds 160 students, but the vast majority of our classes have a 1:12 faculty-to-student ratio,” Aliseda explains. “Students can walk into their professors’ offices, or even into mine, so easily. There is no gatekeeper.”
“There is no gatekeeper to my office.”
This accessibility creates a culture of mentorship. Students often cite close faculty relationships as key to their success. Recent projects have included designing solar-powered water systems, supporting regional health fairs, and contributing to neighborhood cleanups. “These aren’t just resume builders,” Hansmann emphasizes.
Service and Community Engagement
The HECM’s mission goes beyond academics. The campus is deeply tied to the community through initiatives like the Texas A&M Colonias Program, which provides literacy training, job skills, health education, and economic development to families living in colonias along the Texas-Mexico border.
“Our students—especially those in public health—work alongside the Colonias Program to host health fairs, food distributions, and community events,” Aliseda says. “It improves lives, but it also gives our students valuable leadership experience in service.” “They are real opportunities for students to lead and serve.”
“It improves lives—and builds student leaders.”
Internships and partnerships with local hospitals, schools, and businesses are another defining feature. Many HECM students graduate not only with a degree but also with professional experience and community connections that lead directly to jobs.
Traditions with Valley Flair
Like all Aggies, McAllen students take part in time-honored traditions such as the Aggie Ring and walking the stage at Reed Arena. But HECM has also created its own signature events, blending Aggie spirit with South Texas culture.
One of the most popular is the annual Tailgate Pachanga. “It wouldn’t be a pachanga without a community celebration, and it wouldn’t be a tailgate without barbecue and football,” Margo says with a smile. “But it’s also about
stewardship, learning, and the culture of the Valley. It’s our way of carrying forward Aggie traditions with a local flair.”
Looking Ahead
With planning underway on two additional buildings, including the Texas A&M AgriLife Rio Grande Valley Research Center, the campus is preparing for its next chapter. These projects are part of a comprehensive master plan that anticipates steady enrollment growth, new academic programs, and expanded research capacity. Future phases will bring additional classrooms, labs, and student spaces to serve the university and the region’s industries.
Hansmann recalls standing in a conference room overlooking the 100-acre site, talking with a colleague about what lies ahead. “Everything is in front of us,” she said. “Everything. And everything is possible.”
“Everything is possible.”
Rooted in Service: Dr. José M. Amador
By Dr. Kimberly Selber
When you’ve lived in the Rio Grande Valley long enough, you know the voices and faces that shaped our community. For farmers and families across South Texas, one of those voices belonged to Dr. José M. Amador. Whether heard over a Monday morning radio show, seen walking the fields with a citrus grower, or recognized at a national conference in Washington, Dr. Amador spent more than four decades providing science and service to Valley agriculture.
From Cuba to the Valley
Dr. Amador’s journey began in central Cuba, where his father ran a small electric plant and garage. It wasn’t glamorous work, but it was steady, and it gave young José a model for resourcefulness and resilience. At the age of seven, he was sent to study in Havana with the De La Salle Christian Brothers. After a short time at the University of Havana, he transferred to Louisiana State University, where he earned his B.S. in agronomy in 1960, followed by a master’s in plant pathology and sugarcane research in 1962. By 1965, with a Ph.D. in hand and a minor in biochemistry, he was ready to take on the world. A pivotal nudge from federal extension leadership steered him toward South Texas. That same year, he became the Area Extension Plant Pathologist at the Texas A&M Agricultural Research and Extension Center in Weslaco—work that would define the next 41 years of his life.
Four Decades of Leadership
The Valley was facing challenges when Amador arrived. Citrus and cotton growers were battling nematode infestations that threatened entire harvests. Farmers needed solutions fast. Amador not only delivered the science but also taught growers how to apply it—walking fields, holding workshops, and translating complex plant pathology into practical steps that farmers could trust.
For 26 years, he traveled the region; if you draw a diagonal from Eagle Pass up toward San Antonio, slide east to Port Lavaca,
and then drop south until your boots hit the Rio Grande, you’ve got Amador’s service area. And he covered it—fields, sheds, classrooms, county halls—helping growers, homeowners, applicators, and farmworkers learn to identify diseases and, more importantly, control them. Long before sustainability became a buzzword, Amador was developing programs to protect not just the plants, but also the people who worked with them.
Dr. José M. Amador
In 1991, his leadership took on new dimensions when he was appointed Director of both the Weslaco Center and the Citrus Center at Texas A&M–Kingsville. It was a significant task: guiding research teams, managing budgets, and keeping the Valley’s agricultural priorities at the forefront. But he never stopped being the extension agent who would sit down with a farmer over a cup of coffee to discuss what was happening in the fields. His tenure also coincided with a rapid expansion of distance learning infrastructure that connected our region to graduate coursework and research networks across the A&M system. Under his leadership, the Weslaco center became one of the system’s most reliable technology transfer nodes, hosting hundreds of Texas A&M Telecommunication Network sessions in peak years to bridge research, classrooms, and extension audiences. That connectivity mattered: it kept Valley students in the pipeline and Valley questions in front of College Station labs.
And, while Texas A&M breeders were rolling out icons like the 1015 onion, TAM jalapeños, and Rio Red grapefruit, Dr. José Amador’s Weslaco extension team turned those breakthroughs into everyday practice—training Valley growers on disease control, nematodes, and pesticide safety, and keeping them a step ahead with Monday-morning updates.”
A Voice Beyond the Lab
If you lived in the Valley during the 1980s or ’90s, you probably heard Dr. Amador’s steady, reassuring voice on the radio. His Monday morning program—first with Charlie Rankin and later with Joe Hermosa—became a ritual for both growers and homeowners. He mixed practical advice with a deep sense of care, reminding listeners that science was there to serve them.
That connection with people is what made him unique. He wasn’t a scientist locked away in a lab; he was in the fields, on the airwaves, and always available to explain what mattered in plain language.
From Weslaco to Washington
Amador’s influence didn’t stop at the county line. In 2003, President Bill Clinton nominated him to serve as Assistant Secretary for Science and Education at the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Confirmed by the Senate Agriculture Committee, he was suddenly shaping national policy on sustainable farming, biotechnology, food safety, livestock, and international research collaborations.
Even in Washington, he carried the Valley with him. His perspective was always grounded in the growers and families he
had served for decades. Science mattered, but only if it reached the people in the fields.
The Texas House later enrolled a resolution honoring Amador’s leadership at the Weslaco station and the Citrus Center—a rare on-the-record thank-you from Austin to a scientist whose work kept our region’s agricultural engine running.
The Teacher at Heart
For all his titles and awards, Dr. Amador always called himself a teacher. He mentored young scientists at the Weslaco and Citrus Centers, created countless training programs for pesticide applicators and farm workers, and even took a sabbatical to teach at EARTH University in Costa Rica.
Together with his wife, Silvia, he established a Student Travel Scholarship to enable graduate students to attend national and international conferences. Later, the American Phytopathological Society’s Caribbean Division created a scholarship in their names. For Amador, supporting students wasn’t just a nice gesture—it was essential.
“Silvia and I always believed education changes everything,” he once said. And he lived that truth.
Honors and Recognition
Awards followed, from associations that actually do the work: the Caribbean Division of the American Phytopathological Society and the Latin American Phytopathological Association recognized his contributions; industry groups like Texas Citrus Mutual and the Rio Grande Valley Sugar Growers added their thanks; and LSU’s College of Agriculture named him an Outstanding Alumnus, linking his Louisiana training to a Texas legacy. A Citrus Center newsletter from 2005 captured the local sentiment plainly as he approached retirement: the respect was broad and well-earned.
In 2005, after 41 years of service, he retired and was named Director Emeritus of the Texas AgriLife Research and Extension Center in Weslaco—a title he holds for life.
But perhaps his greatest honor came not
from institutions, but from the Valley’s growers themselves, who often stopped him at the grocery store or in church to say, simply, “thank you.”
Why it mattered here
What Amador built—disease ID clinics, pesticide safety trainings, radio briefings, research-informed protocols—helped stabilize incomes, protect worker health, and keep families on their land. He had the range to speak with regulators one hour and stand knee-deep in a grove the next, translating needs in both directions. That’s rare. And it’s why, when you ask around, what people remember isn’t a title. It’s the call returned, the field visit, the clear explanation.
He also understood the responsibility that comes with proximity to a university system. Under his watch, Weslaco didn’t act like a distant outpost; it behaved like a hub, pulling in graduate courses, research collaborations, and student placements so that talent didn’t have to leave the Valley to get connected. The region benefited twice: our producers got faster access to solutions, and our students saw themselves in the work.
A Life of Service
Dr. Amador’s career is a model of what happens when science meets service. He bridged the gap between research and practice, Washington and Weslaco, classrooms and fields. He showed that agriculture is never just about plants or pests—it’s about people and families.
Even in retirement, he and Silvia continued to encourage students and nurture connections between institutions. His legacy lives on in the scholarships he funded, the research centers he led, the policies he helped shape, and, most importantly, in the community that continues to benefit from his work.
For Dr. Amador’s legacy, one lesson stands out: leadership doesn’t come from titles or accolades. It comes from showing up—season after season—with humility, warmth, and a belief that knowledge should be shared.
CHASSE CONQUE, SENIOR VP AND DIRECTOR OF UTRGV ATHLETICS AT UTRGV, EDINBURG, TX
KELLY HANCOCK, TEXAS STATE COMPTROLLER AT THE MCALLEN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE, MCALLEN, TX
MCALLEN CITY MANAGER ISAAC TAWIL AND SANDRA TAWIL AT ROBERT & JANET VACKAR STADIUM, EDINBURG, TX
CITY OF BROWNSVILLE MAYOR JOHN COWEN JR AT LA REVE, BROWNSVILLE, TX
MISSION’S GOLDEN STEPS FOR CHILDHOOD CANCER AWARENESS
On Sunday, September 14, 2025, the City of Mission hosted the March for Childhood Cancer Awareness in partnership with the Greater Gold Foundation at the Mission Event Center. The event brought together families, friends, survivors, and supporters in a show of courage, compassion, and hope.
The heartfelt gathering shone a golden light on the fight against childhood cancer, serving as both a moving tribute and a powerful call to action. Participants walked in solidarity to raise awareness, offer support to families, and inspire hope for children battling cancer.
Each step taken symbolized strength, unity, and the shared belief that every child deserves a healthy, joyful future. Gratitude was extended to the Greater Gold Foundation, the title sponsor, and to the entire community for uniting in purpose and walking together in hope.
MISSION IN MOTION: CHAMBER LUNCHEON SPOTLIGHTS THE RGV ECONOMY
Photography by Destiny Narvaez
On August 13, 2025, at the Mission Events Center, the Greater Mission Chamber of Commerce hosted its Buenas Tardes Luncheon: The State of Current Business. This successful event was made possible by South Texas Health System and Texas National Bank. The luncheon featured distinguished speakers, including State Representative Sergio Muñoz, Jr., Hidalgo County Judge Richard F. Cortez, Joe Quiroga of Texas National Bank, Rick Carrera of COSTEP, Dante Galeazzi of TIPA, and Juan Francisco Ochoa, Jr. of Taco Palenque Group. Dr. Kimberly Selber of UTRGV moderated the panel discussion, giving the audience insight into the current pulse of the RGV’s economy.
OZIEL VASQUEZ, MYRHANDA ORTEGA, HECTOR SANCHEZ
MARIO LIZCANO, SALLY FRAUSTRO GUERRA & MCALLEN MAYOR JAVIER VILLALOBOS
FIGHTING FOR EDINBURG’S FUTURE:
Low
Taxes. Public Safety. Growth.
IMPORTANT ELECTION DATES:
Oct 6, 2025 – Last Day to Register
Oct 20, 2025 – Early Voting Begins
Oct 24, 2025 – Last Day to Apply for Mail Ballot (Received)
Oct 31, 2025 – Early Voting Ends
Nov 4, 2025 – Election Day / Mail Ballot Deadline
A Legacy of Service and Integrity
Son of former Mayor Joe Ochoa, Omar was raised with strong values of honesty, integrity, compassion for others, and service to the community
Experienced & Trustworthy
As a business owner, respected lawyer, former CPA, and Edinburg’s former City Attorney, Omar knows how to manage budgets and major projects, protect our tax dollars, and look out for the best interest of Edinburg taxpayers
Ready to Move Edinburg Forward
Edinburg families need a Mayor they can trust It’s time to lead our City forward with purpose, vision, and a commitment to progress.
ABOUT OMAR
SPARKLING SUPPORT: TOLOA
HOSTS A SOLD-OUT EVENING FOR COMFORT HOUSE
Photography by Destiny Narvaez
On August 13, 2025, Toloa hosted Caviar & Champagne to benefit the Comfort House.
Guests were treated to a three-course, gourmet meal, each with a touch of caviar and paired with Nicola Feuillatte champagne selections. The sold-out event brought together both faithful and new supporters to support the Comfort House. The ambiance that Toloa provided was a memorable one, leaving guests wanting more.
ETIQUESTIONS
It is football season, and we are all so excited about the RGV Vaqueros football games. What are the basic etiquette rules we should keep in mind while attending the football games? Gooooo Vaqueros!!!
We certainly are all excited about UTRGV Vaquero football It is a momentous time for the Rio Grande Valley community The three basic etiquette rules to consider when attending football games are: 1 Be mindful of the people around you Stand up when the crowd is standing up and cheer loudly! However, when the people behind you are sitting, try to stay seated so that you do not block their view 2 Respect the team and officials Be mindful of the words you choose and refrain from “booing” or calling names 3 Pick up your trash Remember to take all your trash with you when you leave your seats in the stadium Have fun and enjoy the games .
I have been attending many events with my friends, and I have recently noticed that the conversation turns quickly to gossip about people who are not with us at the event. It always makes me feel a little uncomfortable. I don’t really know how to not participate in the gossip without looking judgmental or rude. Do you have any suggestions? I really like my group of friends, and I don’t think they really mean any harm. However, I am just not comfortable with all the gossip about others.
I am so glad you asked this question! Talking about others is a very common practice and can be very uncomfortable for many people The old saying goes, “If they are talking about someone else to you, they are likely talking about you to someone else ” The best suggestion I can make is to try to change the conversation to another topic without seeming to be rude Etiquette is all about social graces, and there are usually ways to change the subject without making anyone feel bad about the conversation For example, you may just interject and say something about the outfit one of the friends is wearing, or interrupt to ask for orders for food or drink However, you can do it, try to change the topic without anyone realizing it was changed
I have been so fortunate to attend many social events this season, and I know it is polite to send a thank you card afterwards. However, I am always stuck with what to write. Do you have any advice?
Just do it! The sooner, the better Write the thank you note as if you were speaking with the person you are thanking Keep it short and sweet, but personalize the note by referring to the event you attended Finally, always remember that a thank you note is an extra way of telling the person you truly value what has been done for you
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
Personalized Guidance for Your Weight-Loss Journey
Achieving weight-loss goals requires more than a one-size-fits-all approach. Get the expertise you need, close to home, from certified obesity and nutrition specialists at South Texas Health System® Clinics Family Medicine. We can partner with you to tailor a plan that matches your specific health conditions, lifestyle, nutrition needs and long-term health goals – and provide continued support to help you reach your optimal weight.
Get started today. Call 956-515-2233 for more information or to schedule an appointment.
Chris Casso, MD, ABOM Certified in Obesity Medicine
Mayra Olivares, MS, RDN, LD Dietitian and Nutrition Counseling
South Texas Health System Clinics Family Medicine - Trenton 900 N. 10th St. | Suite A | McAllen, TX 78504
Accepting New Patients
Services may require a written referral from a physician or NPP (PA/NP/CNS)
Accepts Medicare, Medicaid and most medical insurance plans
TAILGATE TRADITIONS
Photography by Jacqueline Wallace UTRGV’s inaugural football tailgate on August 30th was more than pregame—it was a community celebration. The lots buzzed with thousands of alumni reconnecting, students showing off Vaquero pride, and families staking out their new Saturday tradition. Food, music, and plenty of orange spirit set the scene before history was made inside the stadium. SOCIALIFE was there, of course, with our own tent and Vaquero pride. Look for us at the next UTRGV Football Tailgate.
DR GREG SELBER, DANYA SELBER, DR KIMBERLY SELBER
BILLY CUELLAR, DR CHRISTIAN SOBNGWI, & DR GIORGIO GOTTI
MCALLEN CITY COMMISSIONER ROLANDO RIOS, MAYOR JAVIER VILLALOBOS, SALLY FRAUSTRO GUERRA, JUDGE RICHARD CORTEZ, STC PRESIDENT RICARDO SOLIS
DIAN BARTEK & JUDGE RICHARD CORTEZ
ELIZABETH SCHNAIDERMAN, DR DAVID SCHNAIDERMAN, ISAAC TAWIL, SANDRA TAWIL, RICARDO SOLIS
VAQUEROS RALLY THE VALLEY WITH INAUGURAL FOOTBALL GAME
Photography by Cliff Ranson
The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV) Vaqueros made history on Saturday with a commanding 66-0 victory over Sul Ross State in their inaugural football game, presented by Bert Ogden Auto Group. Playing before a crowd of 12,726 inside Robert & Janet Vackar Stadium and nearly 20,000 more outside, the Vaqueros showcased both offensive firepower and defensive dominance. Quarterback Eddie Lee Marburger threw for 365 yards and five touchdowns, while the defense limited Sul Ross to just 75 yards. Before kickoff, the university honored members of the Vaquero Founders Society—supporters who donated $50,000 or more to launch the football program. Fans can catch future Vaqueros games on SWAC TV.
HEAD COACH TRAVIS BUSH
LISA CONQUE & CHASSE CONQUE
JANET VACKAR, GRANDSON WALT, BOB VACKAR
VAL LAMANTIA & UTRGV PRESIDENT GUY BAILEY
Cancer & Surgery Center
SÍ SE PUEDE! A CELEBRATION OF LATINA LEADERSHIP
Photography by Jacqueline Wallace
The Rio Grande Valley Hispanic Chamber of Commerce hosted its annual Latina Leadership Conference on Thursday, Sept. 4, 2025, at the Mission Event Center in Mission, Texas. This year’s theme, “Sí Se Puede,” highlighted Latina leadership, cultural pride, and professional development. The conference featured keynote speaker Janet Murguía, president and CEO of UnidosUS, along with workshops, panel discussions, and a marketplace of women- and minority-owned vendors. Guests also enjoyed the Traditional Attire Contest, a long-standing tradition celebrating Hispanic heritage. “This conference is a space where Latinas can come together to share knowledge and strengthen their influence,” said RGVHCC President & CEO Cynthia M. Sakulenzki.
JANETTE MURGUIA & AGUSTIN “AUGIE” LOZANO JR NATASHA DEL BARRIO & JANET VACKAR
The McAllen Swim Club (MSC) is making waves both in and out of the pool with its upcoming Inaugural Murder Mystery Dinner Party. On October 24, 2025, the non-profit will host an elegant evening at the McAllen Country Club, featuring the nationally acclaimed Murder Mystery Company—known to many from its spotlight on Shark Tank. More than just intrigue and entertainment, this event represents a vital investment in the future of young athletes across the Rio Grande Valley.
Since 1963, MSC has been at the forefront of competitive swimming in South Texas, fostering discipline, excellence, and resilience in its athletes. In 1977, MSC was officially founded as a non-profit thanks to the La Mantia family.
Today, the club supports about 100 swimmers, ranging from beginners to nationally ranked competitors. Among its celebrated alumni are Shaine Casas, Olympic Qualifier and World Aquatic Championships medalist; Cooper Gates of the University of Incarnate Word; and Amani Singh of Southwestern University. Danny Goodwin, considered one of MSC’s greatest, competed in the 1984 Olympic Trials, placing 16th and holding TAGS records for years in the 500 Free and 1650 Free. He went on to swim for Southern Methodist University as part of a legendary recruiting class. These achievements testify to MSC’s enduring commitment to high-caliber training and mentorship.
Yet behind the accolades lies a challenge: many families in the Valley face financial barriers that limit access to elite training. MSC works to ensure talent and determination—not circumstance—define opportunity. Sponsorships from this fundraiser will help cultivate top-level athletes while also providing financial assistance to families in need.
The Murder Mystery Dinner Party promises sophistication, laughter, and community spirit—all in support of local youth. Attendees will not only enjoy an immersive theatrical experience but also play a role in ensuring the next generation of swimmers can dive into their full potential.
In celebrating the past, present, and future of swimming excellence, MSC invites the community to join them for a night where every clue uncovered helps unlock brighter opportunities for Rio Grande Valley athletes.
McAllen Swim Club 5111 N. 10th St. PMB 131 McAllen, TX 78504
Web address: https://tinyurl.com/mt6y6pmk
Phone Number: 956-529-5523
Contact person for the event: Victor Vidal, President, (956) 827-3030
2025
DISTINGUISHED CITIZEN AWARD DINNER
Honoree: Jude Ernest Aliseda
This award is presented annually by the Rio Grande Council, BSA to chosen community leaders for their outstanding service as evidenced by the interest and leadership they have provided to many worthwhile organizations within the local Rio Grande Valley community, as well as the respect and esteem in which they are held by their colleagues. Honoring distinguished citizenship delivers a message to our youth that character counts. Highlighting the example of noteworthy citizens, helps to inspire our youth to lead, to accept responsibility, and to care about principles and causes beyond self-interest Those who receive the award are not necessarily Scouting volunteers, but rather individuals who personify what Scouting stands for – good citizenship, outstanding moral fiber with a dedication to others, and for living their lives by the Scout Oath and Law
SPONSORSHIP
For sponsorship information contact Luis Rodriguez | luis rodriguez@scouting org | 956-423-0250
FRIENDS OF SCOUTING
The Distinguished Citizen Award also provides criticalfinancial support through the local Friends of Scouting campaign for all our BSA programs across four counties in Southern Texas. These include Starr County, Hidalgo County, Willacy County, and Cameron County
KATHERINE GARCIA PEREZ ANNOUNCES CAMPAIGN FOR JUDGE OF COUNTY COURT 4
A TRUSTED ATTORNEY WITH OVER 20 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE, COMMITTED TO COMPASSION, EFFICIENCY, & INNOVATION IN OUR COURTS.
EFFICIENCY
A PLEDGE TO REDUCE DELAYS AND ENSURE TIMELY JUSTICE.
INNOVATION AND TECHNOLOGY
MODERNIZING COURT OPERATIONS FOR GREATER TRANSPARENCY & ACCESS.
COMPASSION ROOTED IN FAMILY VALUES CAREER ADVOCATE FOR FAMILIES & CHILDREN.
CRIMINAL AND DEFENSE IN STATE & FEDERAL COURTS
FAMILY LAW & CIVIL MATTERS
20 YEARS AD LITEM EXPERIENCE FIGHTING FOR CHILDREN’S RIGHTS
SUN, SAND, AND SAFETY: PROTECTING YOUR DOG AT THE BEACH
By Dr. Ruben Castro
Here in the RGV, the weather is perfect for beach trips, sunshine, and family fun, and for many of us, that includes bringing our dogs along. Recently, my family packed up the cooler, umbrellas, and toys, but before heading out, my wife and I stopped at the pet store for something unusual: UV-protectant shirts for our pups. Why shirts? Because when it comes to sunscreen for dogs, things can get a little tricky.
Do Dogs Really Need Sunscreen?
The short answer: yes! According to Forbes, veterinary dermatologists point out that “just like us, dogs can develop skin cancer from exposure to sunlight.” All dogs can fall victim to sunburn, particularly on sensitive parts like the nose, ears, or belly, though certain dog breeds with short, thin coats are more at risk (think pit bulls, Boston terriers, bull terriers, Chihuahuas, etc.).
Sunscreen Risks
The FDA hasn’t evaluated many sunscreens for pets, so their effectiveness is uncertain. The ASPCA advises avoiding ingredients like zinc oxide and salicylates. Zinc oxide can, in rare cases, cause toxicity and damage red blood cells. At the same time, salicylates may irritate the skin and lead to serious issues if ingested, such as ulceration or liver damage.
Additionally, dogs may lick off sunscreen or chew the tube, which can lead to vomiting, diarrhea, or potential stomach blockages that may require surgery. Owners should weigh these risks when considering pet sunscreens.
Safer Alternatives
The American Kennel Club (AKC) recommends exploring alternatives to sunscreen altogether. Protective clothing, such as sun shirts, rash guards, and even dog hats, can provide a barrier against harmful rays without the potential harm of ingestion. Cooling vests and a variety
Final Thoughts
of reflective shade cloths are also great options on hotter days. And, of course, the fundamentals of sun safety like shade, fresh water, and avoiding activity during the hottest hours of the day (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.)!
Beach Day Tips
A fun beach trip with your dog takes a little planning. The Animal Behavior College suggests:
1. Make sure your dog actually enjoys sand and water.
2. Use a long leash and harness for safe exploring.
3. Be cautious of loose dogs at crowded beaches.
4. Protect paws from hot sand with shade or booties.
5. Bring shade, cool water, and rest breaks.
6. Rinse off salt and sand to prevent skin irritation.
Beach days with your pooch are one of the BEST experiences on the planet, but the topic of sun safety is often overlooked. Yes, there are some dog-safe sunscreens available, but many pose potential risks. Therefore, it is generally safer to seek shade, use dog-specific clothing, and make informed choices. This summer, make a plan, take the time to pack wisely, protect your dog, and enjoy the sand and surf together!
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
Dr. Jeff Young, DVM, star of Animal Planet's “Dr. Jeff: Rocky Mountain Vet" and founder of Planned Pethood International, will be the keynote speaker at the 2025 Tails of Hope event. Don’t miss the opportunity to hear from this inspiring speaker and advocate for our furry friends!
Sponsorships start at $1500. For Sponsorship Opportunities, email Rebecca Arizmendi-Chavez at development@yaquianimalrescue.com
NOVEMBER 21, 2025
6PM-11PM
MISSION EVENT CENTER
200 N SHARY RD
PARTNERSHIP FOR CHANGE: YAQUI ANIMAL RESCUE AND DONNA NORTH VET SCIENCE PROGRAM CONFRONT THE VALLEY’S STRAY CRISIS
By Alyssa Cerroni
The Rio Grande Valley is home to one of the largest populations of stray animals in the nation. With millions of animals roaming our streets, performing high-volume sterilizations has become a top priority for Yaqui Animal Rescue.
Yaqui Animal Rescue has worked tirelessly to promote sterilization as the most effective solution for animal population issues. To further address this problem, Yaqui Animal Rescue and Donna North High School formed a partnership.
In early 2024, Yaqui Animal Rescue collaborated with the Donna North Veterinary Science Program to discuss the establishment of a mobile clinic designed to serve underserved communities. This clinic would offer low-cost spay and neuter surgeries, wellness exams, vaccinations, and microchipping services to families in need. Donna North High School and Yaqui Animal Rescue secured the necessary medical equipment for spay and neuter procedures and began recruiting veterinarians and veterinary technicians to perform the surgeries. This partnership turned the vision of creating a clinic for mass sterilization surgeries into a reality.
By transforming their clinic into educational spaces, Yaqui Animal Rescue and Donna North High School created a career pipeline for students pursuing veterinary careers. Students gain hands-on experience shadowing veterinarians, graduating as Certified Veterinary Assistants with the qualifications to
apply to veterinary school. Most importantly, the partnership demonstrated a broader value -- not only are they helping animals, but they're strengthening the future veterinary workforce and serving underserved communities.
Since April 2025, Yaqui Animal Rescue and Donna North High School have hosted three clinics, serving 235 pets. Their most recent clinic, held September 27–28, brought in five veterinarians and ten veterinary technicians from across the country to provide care for 200 pets.
Yaqui Animal Rescue needs support to develop their clinic and expand services for more animals and families. You can help by becoming a clinic sponsor or by making a donation to Yaqui Animal Rescue today. For more information, please visit www.yaquianimalrescue.com.
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$709,900
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Port Isabel ISD
South Padre Island
REAL ESTATE SOLUTIONS ACROSS THE RIO GRANDE VALLEY
WITH OFFICES IN MCALLEN, HARLINGEN, AND BROWNSVILLE.
When it comes to real estate, local knowledge and expertise is everything. At Coldwell Banker in The Rio Grande Valley, our team of professionals delivers expert guidance, unmatched technology and market insights, and the backing of an internationally trusted name.
Whether you’re buying, selling, leasing, or developing, we help you make the most strategic moves across any real estate sector. With offices in McAllen, Harlingen, and Brownsville, we’re always nearby.
Buyer & Seller Representation
Landlord & Tenant Representation
September 4
Good Day McAllen
McAllen Chamber of Commerce
Embassy Suites
11:30 AM
Latina Leadership Conference
RGV Hispanic Chamber of Commerce
Mission Event Center
8 AM - 5 PM SL
September 6
46th Annual Collage Gala
IMAS
6 PM - 11 PM
September 7
The Addams Family
McAllen Performing Arts Center
7 PM
September 10 - 13
11th Annual South Texas International Film Festival
City of Edinburg
Edinburg ACE Center
September 13
Chalk the Walk: Hope & Inspiration Walk
South Texas Health System
STHS Behavioral - Main Parking Lot
9 - 11 AM
UTRGV vs Langston
UTRGV Football
Robert & Janet Vackar Stadium
7 PM
4th Annual Golf Classic
Pharr EDC
Tierra del Sol Golf Course
7:30 AM
September 18
Mariposa Gala
Children’s Bereavement Center RGV
Palacio de Destinee
6 PM SL
September 20
Kemp’s Krawl 5K
Sea Turtle Inc
Hilton Garden Inn, SPI
6 PM SL
Noche de Vino
McAllen Performing Arts Foundation
McAllen Convention Center
7 PM SL
Royal Tea at the Heritage
McAllen Heritage Center
2 PM - 5 PM SL
UTRGV vs Texas Wesleyan
UTRGV Football
Robert & Janet Vackar Stadium
7 PM
September 23
Halftime Luncheon with UTRGV
American Advertising Federation RGV
Lone Star National Bank
11:30 AM SL
September 25
Whiskey Business
McAllen Chamber of Commerce
Quinta Mazatlan
6 PM SL
September 27
*Deaf & Hard of Hearing Awareness Walk
Texas Hands and Voices
Edinburg Municipal Park
8:30 AM - 11 AM
*Breast Cancer Awareness 5K Run/Walk
Texas Oncology
1901 S 2nd Street, McAllen
7:30 AM
October 2
PSJA Education Foundation Gala
PSJA Education Foundation
Bert Ogden Arena
6 PM SL
October 3
McAllen Legislative Wrap Up Luncheon
McAllen Chamber of Commerce
Embassy Suites
11:30 AM - 1 PM
October 4
Think Pink Parade
South Texas Health System
STHS Children’s - Main Parking Lot
10 AM - 12 PM
Building a Thriving Village
Hispanic Chamber of Commerce
1806 S International Blvd
10 AM - 3 PM
The Rock Orchestra by Candlelight McAllen Performing Arts Center
8 PM
UTRGV vs Houston Christian University
UTRGV Football
Robert & Janet Vackar Stadium
7 PM
Wine for Wishes by the Bay Make-A-Wish RGV
The Greens at the Shores
6 PM - 9 PM
October 8
State of the County
Hidalgo County
McAllen Convention Center
6 PM SL
October 9
30th Anniversary Gala
VIDA
McAllen Convention Center
6 PM SL
October 11
*Mission Pink 5K
Mission Regional Medical Center
900 S Bryan Road, Mission
7 AM
Birds and Butterflies Garden Party
SPI Birding, Nature Center & Alligator Sanctuary
SPI Birding Center
6 PM - 9 PM SL
¡Fandango!
Museum of South Texas History
6:30 PM - 10:30 PM SL
A Night with Driscoll
Cruzar La Cara De La Luna
UTRGV Performing Arts Complex
6 PM
Barktoberfest
5x5 Brewing & Yaqui Animal Rescue
5x5 Brewing Company
5 PM - 9 PM
Symphony in the Park Valley Symphony Orchestra
McAllen Convention Center Oval Park
6 PM
October 16
STC Foundation Gala
South Texas College Foundation
Mission Event Center
6 PM SL
October 18
18th Annual Dancing with the Stars Gala
RGV Diabetes Association
Mission Event Center
6 PM SL
Mariachi Festival
McAllen Performing Arts Center
7 PM SL
October 21
Empty Bowls 2025
Food Bank RGV
Bert Ogden Arena
11 AM - 1:30 PM
American Advertising Awards (AAA) Workshop & Member Mixer
American Advertising Federation RGV
Casa De Palmas
4:30 - 5:30 PM How to Enter the AAAs
5:30 - 7:30 PM Mixer SL
October 24
Children’s Fall Festival
South Texas Health System
STHS Children’s - Main Parking Lot
6 - 9 PM
Murder & Mystery
McAllen Swim Club
McAllen Country Club
6 PM SL
Trunk or Treat
RGV College
5419 N Cage Blvd
6:30 PM - 8:30 PM
October 25
11th Annual Los Muertos Bailan City of Edinburg
Promenade Park Amphitheater & Edinburg ACE Center
UTRGV vs Incarnate Word
Homecoming
UTRGV Football
Robert & Janet Vackar Stadium
7 PM
October 30
25th Annual Fall Festival
City of Edinburg
Edinburg Municipal Park
Easterseals Dinner & Auction
Easterseals Rio Grande Valley
McAllen Convention Center
6 PM SL
November 1
Installation & Awards Centennial Celebration
Edinburg Chamber of Commerce
Region One Service Center
7 PM
La Catrina Ball 2025
South Texas Literacy Coalition
Pepe Salinas Memorial Event Center
6 PM - 11 PM
November 5
The MANual For Success Men’s Conference & Expo
Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Memorial Event Center
8 AM - 5 PM SL
November 7
Music of the Greats
Valley Symphony Orchestra
McAllen Performing Arts Center
8 PM
November 8
A Salute to Valley Veterans Concert & Community Fair
South Texas Health System
STHS Behavioral - Main Parking Lot
6 - 8 PM
Veterans Day Parade City of Edinburg Closner Boulevard
A Night of Color Access Esperanza Clinics
Mission Event Center
6 PM SL
UTRGV vs Nicholls
UTRGV Football
Robert & Janet Vackar Stadium
5 PM
November 12 & 13
SOCIAL FEST
Brand Geniuz & Mission EDC
Mission Event Center
8 AM - 5 PM SL
November 15
5K Run/Walk in Memory of Fire Chief Snider City of Edinburg Central Fire Station
15th Anniversary Gala Renaissance Cancer Foundation
Edinburg Conference Center at Renaisance
6 PM SL
UTRGV vs East Texas A&M
UTRGV Football
Robert & Janet Vackar Stadium
5 PM
November 20
Distinguished Citizen Award Dinner
Scouting America, Rio Grande Council
McAllen Convention Center
6 PM SL
November 21
Tails of Hope
Yaqui Animal Rescue
Mission Event Center
6 PM - 11 PM SL
December 3
State of the Region Luncheon
RGV Partnership
Region One ESC 11:30 AM - 1:30 PM
4th Annual Keep It Ugly Charity Bowling Tournament
American Advertising Federation RGV
Flamingo Bowl 5:30 - 9:30 PM SL
December 4
Miracle on McIntyre St Lighting of the Tree City of Edinburg Promenade Park Amphitheater
December 5
Miracle on McIntyre St Night of Lights Parade City of Edinburg Closner Boulevard
A Touch of Frost
Valley Symphony Orchestra
McAllen Performing Arts Center
8 PM
December 6
McAllen Holiday Parade City of McAllen
Bicentennial Street
6 PM SL
December 10
Tina: The Tina Turner Musical
McAllen Performing Arts Center
7 PM
December 12
Children’s Christmas Posada
South Texas Health System
STHS Children’s - Main Parking Lot
6- 9 PM
December 13
Weslaco Lighted Christmas Parade
Weslaco Area Chamber of Commerce
Downtown Weslaco (Texas Blvd)
6 PM
2026
January 31
2nd Annual Enchantment Under the Sea Gala
Sea Turtle Inc
Hilton Garden Inn SPI 6:30 PM SL
February 6
Star Wars + Four Hands
Valley Symphony Orchestra
McAllen Performing Arts Center
8 PM
February 17
Catholic Charities Gala
Embassy Suites SL
STEM NATION
Bert Ogden Arena
9 AM - 1:30 PM
February 18
Mrs Doubtfire: A New Musical Comedy
McAllen Performing Arts Center
7 PM
February 26
The ADDY Awards Gala
American Advertising Federation RGV
Embassy Suites
6 PM SL
March 5
Hats Off to Women of Distinction
Hispanic Chamber of Commerce
March 6
The Beatles & Rutter Soul
Valley Symphony Orchestra
McAllen Performing Arts Center
8 PM
March 28
2026 Honor Roll
Teach for America
Mission Event Center 6:30 PM SL
April 10
20th Anniversary Moon Over Mazatlan Quinta Mazatlan
