March / April 2023 - RGVision Magazine

Building a Team

new era

football

HELPING BUSINESSES GROW

The Entrepreneurship & Commercialization Center at UTRGV creating a prosperous economy. p.28

CRIS RIVERA

Achieving united region through improved health outcomes. p.30

SOUTH PADRE ISLAND

SPRING BREAK

Enjoy Texas Travel Awards destination of the year. p.60

Head coach Travis Bush ushers in a

of

in the Valley. p.20

Signs of vein disease may include:

• Spider veins

• Varicose veins

• Swollen feet and ankles

• Leg heaviness

• Restless legs

Detecting colon cancer early can be lifesaving.

March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month

When should you have a colorectal screening and how often? The answer may depend on your personal risk factors. Please don’t delay your care. The team at Valley Baptist Health System is here to help you stay on top of your health.

LE ARN YOUR WAY

GABE PUENTE PUBLISHER/CEO

Matthew

6:34

“Do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow has enough worries of its own.”

As we move past the first quarter of 2023, the remnants from economic downturns, employee retention rates dropping, and inflation are still lurking. One of the many lessons during my tenure as a publisher for RGVision has been that quality control is a key factor for resilience during difficult storms. It’s easy to get caught off guard by what’s around us. As you read this issue's features, you can see how the Rio Grande Valley has shown to be resilient during tough times. Our La Jefa, Cris Rivera, has been in tumultuous environments as a CEO of Rio Grande Regional Hospital and shared her journey into retirement this year. Along with her feature, there are many others that we highlight in this March/April 2023 issue. You will also find what is going on in our education systems and the quality of life the Valley has to offer. Thank you for picking up this issue. Be informed, educated, and inspired.

PUBLISHER'S NOTE

In “Providing Expert Care,” published in the Jan./Feb. 2023 edition of RGVision, La Jolla was printed, in error, as the district to receive priority for The Terry Family Scholarship. Under the scholarship, La Joya ISD students are to receive first consideration.

If you are interested in receiving issues delivered to your home, please go to RGVisionMagazine.com/Subscribe or send us an email at info@RGVisionMagazine. com to subscribe to RGVision for $6.50/month.

Copyright by RGVision Publications Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction without expressed written permission of the publisher is prohibited.

The opinions and views expressed in the magazine don’t necessarily reflect those of our advertisers or collaborators. RGVision magazine is published bi-monthly and circulates 12,000 copies across the Rio Grande Valley in 450 locations with a direct mail distribution to major hospitals and Superintendents within Region 1. The RGVision office is located at 801 N. Bryan Road, Mission, TX 78572.

VISIT

STAFF RGVISION

DOMINIQUE Y. ZMUDA

GRAPHIC DESIGNER/ILLUSTRATOR / CONTENT MANAGER

DENISE EASON

ACCOUNT MANAGER

MARK PUENTE

VIDEO PRODUCTION LEAD

PEDRO SILVA

WEB DEVELOPER

ART GARZA

GRAPHIC ARTIST/PHOTOGRAPHER

CONTRIBUTORS

PSJA ISD

Brownsville ISD

South Texas College

Farah Law Group PLLC

Dr. Alfonso Mercado

Matt Lynch

Quinta Mazatlán

WRITERS

CONTENT

PHOTOGRAPHERS

James Hord

Bárbara Delgado

Abe Hernandez

Dafne Maldonado

Ivan Valentine Photography

Rocio Villalobos

Bryan Kirk

Selene Guerrero

Jillian Cameron

Joanney Uthe

Nathaniel Mata

For editorial comments and suggestions, please send emails to info@rgvisionmagazine.com. For advertising information, please call us at 956.431.0103 or email us at info@rgvisionmagazine.com.

A special thank you to all the advertisers who support this publication: You are the power behind the flywheel igniting positive change that keeps the conversation going.

PRINTED IN MEXICO

TABLE OF CONTENTS

HELPING BUSINESSES GROW

The Entrepreneurship & Commercialization Center at UTRGV creating a prosperous economy.

CRIS RIVERA

Achieving united region through improved health outcomes.

SOUTH PADRE ISLAND SPRING BREAK

Enjoy Texas Travel Awards destination of the year.

Early College pg 10

Financial Integrity

pg 14

Engineering Opportunities

pg 18

Region of Excellence pg 24

Creating a Successful Path pg 34

Game On pg 36

"Dram Shop" Liability in Texas

pg 40

New Generation pg 42

Mental Health

pg 44

Providing Quality Dental Care

pg 46

Aiming to Heal pg 50

Dr. Filiberto Rodriguez pg 52

Pollinator Community pg 56

New Year's Resolutions pg 58

Smokin' & Growin' pg 64

A Moment Back in Time pg 68

Head coach Travis Bush ushers in a new era of football in the Valley.

RGVISION ADVISORY BOARD

Each and every member of our advisory board charges RGVision with growth and commitment within our business development, social engagement, and editorial efforts. Through their feedback and contributions, RGVision will continue to help tell and share the Rio Grande Valley’s stories and extend the invitation to join the conversation.

TOM TORKELSON

MARK PETERSON

VERONICA VELA WHITACRE

ANDREA RODRIGUEZ

SABRINA WALKER HERNANDEZ

SARAH SAGREDOHAMMOND

EDDIE LUCIO III

MARITZA L. RAMIREZ

BILL MARTIN

RENE A. FLORES

JAVIER DE LEON

JUAN A. GARCIA

DR. RENE I. LUNA

BYRON JAY LEWIS

ROBERT DUNKIN

WALL-TO-WALL EARLY COLLEGE

PSJA ISD’s Early College Program Helps Students Get a Jumpstart on Their Careers and Future

by Joanney Uthe | photos

PSJA ISD opened its first Early College High School in 2008 with the goal of removing all educational barriers and ensuring that students get a head start on college free of cost. Extending this goal to all students, PSJA ISD now offers Early College at all eight high school campuses, making it the only wall-to-wall Early College district in Texas.

“All eight campuses offer dual enrollment that can lead to a college certificate, associates degree, or up to 60 college hours, but students may need to be bussed to the Dr. King PSJA College and University Center for specialized programs,” said PSJA Executive Officer for College Readiness Dr. Linda Uribe Treviño.

PSJA ISD students can earn as many as 60 college credits, allowing them to enter college as juniors. This saves the students and parents two years of college expenses, including classes, books, transportation, and tutoring.

According to Dr. Uribe Treviño, this saves students and their parents thousands of dollars in college tuition and expenses.

“PSJA is committed to our students’ success,” Dr. Uribe Treviño said. “We set them up for a favorable outcome by providing all students with college access, textbooks, transportation, student support systems, laptops, and internet access.”

A strong advising program is also a key component of the PSJA Early College Program's success and the overall success of the students. The advising process starts in eighth grade with students exploring the different options and their interests.

In the second semester of freshman year, students can start taking core college classes. In 11th grade, the students narrow down and start taking classes in their

chosen program. In the event a student changes their mind as to which program they want to pursue, they are guided by their high school counselor and South Texas College specialist.

“A lot of the dual credit staff are PSJA employees,” said Adriana Garcia, PSJA ISD director for career and technical education. “This helps retain our students within the programs. For some of these programs, the coursework they go through is with the same teacher. So, the rapport and the relationships between teacher and students really helps as our recruitment tool to continue the pathway.”

Academic advising does not stop once a student graduates from PSJA. The district has college transition specialists who remain in touch with students through their college careers. One specialist works with the students who stay at South Texas College, another with students who attend UTRGV. There is also a specialist who works with students who leave the Valley to further their education.

“Most students are first generation, so we need to make sure we equip them with skills they need to navigate and be successful in college,” said Dr. Uribe-Treviño.

Career and Technical Education (CTE) is one opportunity path within the Early College model that focuses on high skill, high wage careers. PSJA offers more than 20 specialized programs within its CTE umbrella, including welding, cosmetology, law enforcement, and others. Some of the programs have specialized areas, such as a state-of-the-art kitchen for the Culinary Arts program, and the agriculture farm where students can house and tend to their FFA projects.

“The commitment, their dedication and the responsibility it takes to be part of these programs really builds them as true leaders in what they do,” Garcia said.

provided

DENTAL CULINARY ARTS

“Our students are in athletics, cheerleading, drill teams. Academically they compete in UIL. They wear a lot of different hats.”

PSJA ISD, always looking to expand its opportunities for students, is meeting with STC to design a veterinary technician program. The challenge is to develop a program that students can accomplish and complete in four years that meets their high school requirements, as well as a college certificate with an embedded certification that can then be stacked to an apprenticeship or an associates degree.

“One thing we strive for with our students is pushing and letting them know through advisement, ‘What’s next after graduation?’’ Garcia said. “This should not be the end of the road. This is a stepping stone to where they have choices and opportunities to take advantage of.”

February was CTE month, and PSJA recognized

the different programs throughout the month by highlighting teachers in each field and bringing experts into the classrooms. Field trips gave students an inperson look at some of the jobs within that field. Student organizations also celebrated and showcased the leadership and technical skills they are learning. Videos were created to keep the community and industry partners informed of the CTE offerings at PSJA.

“It is all about the teachers, the programs, the students,” Garcia said.

Through partnerships with STC and other higher education leaders, more than 3,500 PSJA ISD high school students are enrolled in college courses each semester.

The district continues accepting students living anywhere in the Rio Grande Valley. For more information, visit www.psjaisd.us/whypsja.

PSJA ISD's nationally recognized Early College Programs are open to all current high school students. Learn more at www. psjaisd.us/earlycollege.

Proud to Be AMONG THE BEST

SOUTH TEXAS HEALTH SYSTEM® EDINBURG HAS BEEN NAMED A BEST REGIONAL HOSPITAL IN TEXAS BY U.S. NEWS & WORLD REPORT.

At South Texas Health System, your health is our purpose. It drives everything we do. That is why we are especially proud that South Texas Health System Edinburg has been recognized as one of the nation’s Best Regional Hospitals by U.S. News & World Report. In addition to ranking in the Top 25 in the state, we are the only facility or system in the Rio Grande Valley to receive this recognition.

As a designated Level IV trauma center, accredited chest pain center, and certified stroke center, South Texas Health System Edinburg serves critical healthcare needs in our community. Recently expanded to include a new $100M+ patient tower, the facility is also home to award-winning programs in maternity care, robotic surgery, physical rehabilitation, wound care and more.

BROWNSVILLE ISD DEMONSTRATES FINANCIAL INTEGRITY

BISD Receives Unmodified Audit

by Joanney Uthe | photos by James Hord

Brownsville ISD submitted its 2021-2022 budget to an independent auditor, Cascos and Associates, PC, and has received an “unmodified,” or clean, audit. Unmodified is an accounting term that indicates that the auditor found all of the financial statements and materials were presented fairly in accordance with good accounting principles. The audit covered the July 2021 to June 2022 fiscal year.

“It shows that we have good accounting principles in place and that the purchases we made were because of our due diligence,” said Dr. Nereida “Nellie” Cantu, deputy superintendent of business and operations.

“As one of the largest 28 school districts in the state, it is more difficult and important to account for everything.”

School districts are funded by three sources of revenue: state funding, property tax revenues, and federal funding. State funding to Brownsville ISD for 2021-2022 amounted to $340 million. Federal funding has increased over the last few years, primarily because of the Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER) grant. Revenues from property taxes have also increased as property values in the district have risen as the city grows.

“The pandemic lowered attendance by

about 5%, and the state adjusted for that,” said Mary Garza, director of finance. “But this is the exciting part: our total revenues for the year were $471 million; we spent $442 million. That leaves a balance of $28.9 million to the balance fund.”

The fund balance is the district’s savings. The $28.9 million brought that balance up to $132.2 million. This is enough funds to cover operating expenses for approximately 109 days, based on the average amount spent per day over the entire year.

“The state has warned that when ESSER ends in 2024, there will be a ‘funding cliff’ where we will have to continue to operate without those funds, and have encouraged us to build our fund balance,” explained Dr. Cantu.

The audit was in preparation for School FIRST (Financial Integrity Rating System of Texas). Established in 2001, every district in the state is required to submit their financial records to the state. The state then grades the finances of the districts based on 16 to 20 different criteria. Brownsville ISD has received an “A” for the last 10 years.

The district has also received recognition for its financial reporting from two other independent agencies. In March 2022, the 2020-2021 financial report received the Certificate of Excellence in Financial Reporting from the Association

of School Business Officials. In July 2022, it was also awarded the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting.

For both of these certificates, it was the 12th time the district received the award. The reports for the 2021-2022 year have been submitted to these agencies, and the district is hoping for number 13 from each agency.

“The audit and awards show that we are spending money the way taxpayers expect us to spend their money,” said Dr. Cantu. “But we never let our guard down.”

Part of that work includes preparing for when the federal funds from the ESSER grant stop in September of 2024. Some of the ESSER funds have been used for maintaining food service during the pandemic, even with supply chain shortages making it more expensive. Other funds went towards retention stipends. Starting teacher salary in Brownsville ISD is $53,000, which is higher than most of the Valley’s districts.

“The district has been increasing salaries for the staff,” Garza said. “Some years it is not as much as teachers would like, but we are working on correcting that. We are preparing for what is to come. We are conservative, but students and teachers are our priority.”

Texas A&M University and South Texas College have launched the Texas A&M Engineering Academy at South Texas College and will enroll the first cohort of students in fall 2023.

This innovative co-enrollment partnership was developed to address the state’s growing need for engineers. Qualified students will be admitted to the Texas A&M College of Engineering, complete the first two years of coursework at South Texas College and finish their engineering degrees in College Station, Texas. The program will accept applications for the fall through June 15.

The Texas A&M Engineering Academy at South Texas College allows students to pursue one of 22 majors within the College of Engineering at Texas  A&M.

“We continue to work with our outstanding community college partners across Texas to offer students a unique path to earn an engineering degree,” Texas A&M University System Chancellor John Sharp said. “Now students in South Texas have the opportunity to start their college career closer to home for the first couple of years while being part of one of the best engineering schools in the country.”

“I’m excited about the creation of our newest Engineering Academy and the opportunities it provides for students in South Texas,” said John E. Hurtado, Ph.D., interim vice chancellor and dean of engineering at Texas A&M. “It is always important to offer students an affordable premier education. We look forward to welcoming our first cohort to the Aggie family this fall.”

South Texas College President Ricardo J. Solis,

Ph.D., said this evolving partnership with Texas A&M means greater opportunities for students in the Rio Grande Valley.

“We have great talent in our region — talent that is being recognized state and nationwide,” said Dr. Solis. “Our job is to ensure that this talent is fostered and students given opportunities to excel through partnerships like this one with Texas A&M. Through this initiative, qualified Valley students accepted into this Engineering Academy will have the opportunity to gain guaranteed admission into one of the most competitive engineering colleges in the country. We’re excited about this partnership and what it means for our students and our communities.”

By offering opportunities like the engineering academies, Texas A&M is able to better serve Texans. Students will save an estimated $4,600 in tuition and fees each semester they are enrolled in an Engineering Academy before transitioning to Texas A&M to complete their degree.

In Texas, the projected need for engineers in the workforce is 51,000 by 2028. To meet this need, universities and two-year colleges must work together to bridge the gap and attract and retain students who are interested in STEM fields. Students in the Engineering Academy enroll in math, science, and core curriculum courses through South Texas College and have the unique opportunity to enroll in engineering courses taught by Texas A&M faculty on the South Texas College campus. Visit engineering.tamu.edu/academies for more information about how to apply and other details about the Engineering Academy.

STC and Texas A&M have launched the Texas A&M Engineering Academy at South Texas College and will enroll the first cohort of students in fall 2023. Through this initiative, qualified Valley students accepted into this Engineering Academy will have the opportunity to gain guaranteed admission into one of the most competitive engineering colleges in the country.

Building a Team

Head Coach Travis Bush Ushers in a New Era of Football in the Valley

by Bryan Kirk | photos by Ivan Valentine Photography

.

A key ingredient for building a winning team is exceptional coaching, and it seems that head coach Travis Bush checks that box for The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley Vaqueros.

Bush, who was introduced in December as the first head football coach in the university’s history, has more than 20 years of experience coaching football — from high school to the NFL.

He has been part of several successful college football programs over the years, including Texas State University, Texas Christian University, and the University of Houston.

Bush was also on the coaching staff at The University of Texas at San Antonio when the school launched its football program in 2011. He shared he’s delighted to have the chance to build another successful program closer to home.

“It’s pretty exciting having the experience of being on staff at UTSA and starting that program from scratch, and now having the opportunity to do it again and maybe do some things better — and this time being the head coach — is pretty cool,” he said.

Bush was the head football coach at New Braunfels Canyon High School when UTRGV President Guy Bailey, UTRGV Vice President and Director of Athletics Chase Conque, and Maggie Hinojosa, UTRGV’s vice president of strategic enrollment and student affairs, announced plans to bring Division I college football to the Valley by 2025.

Bush, who is from the Valley, said he knew there had been discussions to create a football program at the university before the announcement was made.

It didn’t take long before Bush’s phone started to ring.

“They reached out and made contact first, gauged some interest, and we started talking in more detail,” he said.

Less than a month after that announcement, Bush was named UTRGV’s first head football

coach and has hit the ground running to create this new program.

Bush is leaning on what he learned from the UTSA coaching staff about building a college football program from the ground up.

However, he said that it’s a lot different from the perspective of a head coach than an assistant, but the plan that the leadership at UTRGV has put together is a good one.

“What I am learning now is how much I didn’t know – from an assistant coach's perspective,” he said. “Now, being on this side is a totally different deal. The plan that UTRGV has put together has really given us a great opportunity to be successful early.”

Bush, son of Bruce Bush, who was inducted into the RGV Sports Hall of Fame in 2011, said the community support for this new football program is amazing.

“I always knew if they started football here, that it would blow up,” he said.

It already has. In January, the university announced that fans had already placed deposits on the first 1,000 season tickets.

"What a tremendous response to reach such an incredible number just over a month after we first started accepting season ticket deposits," said Conque in a press release. "It is evident the Valley is excited about Division I football and excited about having Coach Bush at the helm of our program.”

There are things that are visible that help fuel local excitement, such as the facilities that are under construction that are estimated for completion by 2025.

“This is going to be huge for the community; It will be huge for our student athletes,” Bush said. “The plan they have together is to invest into every other sport here and give everybody new stuff at the same time. You’re going to see a lot of construction around campus over the next couple of years. Not just for football, but for every other sport as well.”

To learn more about Travis Bush, visit https://goutrgv.com/staff-directory/travisbush/722.

REGION 1’S QUEST TO BE A REGION OF EXCELLENCE

How Valley Schools Compare to the Rest of Texas

by Bryan Kirk

When it comes to education, the eyes of Texas have traditionally looked at the larger and more urban school districts as models of educational excellence and dismissed less affluent school districts in the Rio Grande Valley.

While many students in the Valley fall into the category of economically disadvantaged, it’s hardly an accurate litmus test for academic excellence.

Statistics show that students in the RGV can hold their

own in the classroom and on the STAAR test against other school districts in the state.

This isn’t at all surprising to Region 1 Executive Director Dr. Daniel King. That’s because ESC 1 has seen a steady increase in math scores and other subjects for more than five years.

“Region 1 is working hand in hand with our school systems to support them to keep this high achievement trend going,” King said.

The continuous improvement in test scores that began in 2016 dipped in 2021 due to the COVID-19 outbreak that forced school closures nationwide.

That dip was only temporary, and the latest scores released by the Texas Education Agency – the first since 2019 – showed a rebound of 24 percentage points, which includes both “meets” and “masters” levels on the STAAR test.

“This is attributed to the hard work of the close to 30,000 teachers who day in and day out ensure students receive the best quality education in their classrooms, as well as the support systems put in place by dedicated school and district administrators,” King said.

There are 38 school districts and 10 charter schools that serve 422,858 students in the eight counties that fall under the umbrella

Saturday April 1st 10am to 3pm

r Educational Booths

r Art Installations

r Garden Tours

r Butterfly Garden Classes

r Native Plant Sales

r Live Performances

r Food & Fun

of ESC1.

According to a Texas Tribune report in September, ESC1 school districts received the highest average accountability ratings, with an average score of 87.9% compared to the statewide average of 86.3%.

“Our goal at Region 1 ESC is Regional Excellence, and this can be achieved by providing equity of service, equity of quality, and equity of optimal impact,” King said.

The TEA released the 2022 Texas Academic Performance Report (TAPR) in August, indicating that 95% of the schools in ESC1 were rated as high performing and received either an “A” or “B” rating, compared with 87% of the campuses in Texas.

Comparatively, 45% of the campuses in ESC1 received an “A” rating, compared with 33% of the campuses in other Texas Regions.

956-681-3370

.

Nature always wears the colors of the spirit.

The districts in ECS1 that received an “A” rating from the TEA were: Brownsville ISD, Edinburg CISD, Hidalgo ISD, Jim Hogg County ISD, Laredo ISD, Los Fresnos CISD, Lyford CISD, McAllen ISD, Pharr-San Juan-Alamo ISD, Raymondville ISD, Rio Grande City Grulla ISD, Roma ISD, San Perlita ISD, Sharyland ISD, South Texas ISD, Triumph Public High School - Laredo, Triumph Public High School RGV, United ISD, Valley ISD, and Vanguard Academy.

However, other Texas regions had the edge in campuses receiving a “B” rating with 54% of campuses in Texas, versus 50% – 22 districts – in ECS1.

The results from the TEA were shared with administrators during a public meeting in August, which only reinforced the leadership at ESC1 has for students in the RGV.

“We are committed to providing support systems for effective instruction in every classroom in the region through strong leadership and planning practices,” King said. “Together, we will transform the region and reach excellence for all.”

Photo Taken at Bandera Coffee Co

Office Manager

Provide professional and friendly service to our staff and clients.

Account Manager

Develop sales and service strategy to ensure business renewal and growth, retaining assigned clients.

Copy Editor

The candidate will ensure that all content is accurate, engaging, and aligned with the company's brand voice and messaging.

Website/ UX Developer

Design, build, or maintain websites using authoring or scripting languages, content creation tools, management tools, and digital media.

Graphic Designer

Create visual concepts using computer software to communicate ideas that inspire, inform, and captivate consumers.

HELPING BUSINESSES GROW

The Entrepreneurship & Commercialization Center at UTRGV Creating a Prosperous Economy

by Jillian Cameron | photos provided

The Entrepreneurship & Commercialization Center under the Office of Workforce and Economic Development for the Division of Governmental and Community Relations of University of Texas Rio Grande Valley works to serve the community of the Rio Grande Valley.

The mission of the organization is to enhance the economic landscape in the RGV by bringing together government, university, and industry and fostering entrepreneurship, innovation, commercialization, and collaboration to leverage opportunities for entrepreneurs, small businesses, and enterprises.

Its vision is to build a regional network that supports entrepreneurs and communities by developing knowledge, cultivating partnerships, and supporting global initiatives.

“The Rio Grande Valley has such a strong entrepreneurial spirit,” said Associate Vice President of Workforce & Economic Development Division for Governmental and Community Relations Ron Garza.

Garza explained the goal of the program to help small businesses grow and create jobs. “That’s what we’re after — more economic prosperity within the region,” he shared.

“We offer a real comprehensive portfolio of services for anyone interested in growing their business — small or large,” Garza said. “If somebody is interested in opening a business or has been in business for 20 years, there’s usually a resource that we can help them grow.”

“We’re what’s called community facing. It’s not directly geared toward students of UTRGV while they’re still completing their degree, but more [economic development] throughout the community. Another one of UTRGV’s strongest resources is applied research. If a business has a product or a product line, we can further it’s development through research. UTRGV does state-of-the-art research."

Linda Ufland is the director of entrepreneurship with innovation and commercialization, under the Workforce & Economic Development Division

for Governmental and Community Relations.

“My role is to help transform the region through different programs that we offer at the center,” she explained. “From idea to launch, we provide different resources that can support the entrepreneurial roadmap for entrepreneurs and small business to achieve their milestones.”

The Entrepreneurship and Commercialization Center offers ideation, business incubation, entrepreneurship development, acceleration, and more.

“We are focused on [helping] elevate the economy through different partnerships,” Ufland said. “A thriving economy wants to give back to higher education and provide opportunities for our student community with jobs, internships, and special projects,” she added.

The Workforce & Economic Development Division for Governmental and Community Relations is an Economic Support Organization (ESO), supporting Economic Development Corporations (EDO).

The eBridge Center for Business & Commercialization is the newest project for the division. The purpose of the eBridge is to be the “entrepreneurial bridge” for businesses to grow and commercialize their products and services on a larger scale. The center will function on two floors in downtown Brownsville, the first floor housing the UTRGV’s Entrepreneurship and Commercialization Center, and the second a prototyping space with private offices available for ventures looking to grow and expand.

The Workforce & Economic Development Division for Governmental and Community Relations at UTRGV is helping the RGV grow, and businesses prosper. Many of the programs within the Workforce & Economic Development Division for Governmental and Community Relations are little to no charge

Our business community has a tremendous economic impact on the region, so part of our goal as an academic institution is ensuring there are good-paying jobs for our graduates in the valley,” Garza shared.

With top-quality resources readily available, the team that makes up the Workforce & Economic Development Division of UTRGV is committed to seeing the economic status of the RGV prosper, and to creating a better community for all.

“We are focused on [helping] elevate the economy through different partnerships. A thriving economy wants to give back to higher education and provide opportunities for our student community with jobs, internships, and special projects."

Linda Ufland , Director of Entrepreneurship with Innovation and Commercialization

LA JEFA Cris Rivera

Achieving United Region Through Improved Health Outcomes

by Rocio Villalobos

Making a difference in the world means helping to improve lives. Growing up in the RGV and having a strong foundation of support through family, friends, and mentors, Cris Rivera knew she was capable of making a difference.

She chose to do so through following her dreams of pursuing a career in healthcare where she could help people who are at their most vulnerable. One of her earlier positions was as a lab supervisor at Rio Grande Regional Hospital. Over 40 years later, she soon plans to retire from this very hospital in her position as CEO.

“That doesn’t mean I will not continue to contribute to the health of the people of the RGV,” she said. “Because of the commitment I have here, having been born and raised, it will always be a part of my life. I have had very good fortune and have been blessed in having

Delgado

a career that gave me an opportunity to help the people of the RGV.”

Before returning to the Valley just over a decade ago, Rivera held CEO positions in hospitals in Louisiana and Kansas. Though the region and state varied, each facility in which she served — including Rio Grande Regional Hospital — is affiliated with HCA Healthcare.

“My vision has always been to be able to see the RGV as one large region, each city supporting each other,” Rivera said. “As I returned 10 years ago, as a matter of fact, I did see that. I’m really looking forward to that type of approach to continue growing and expanding.”

In her time with RGRH, Rivera has made vast progress in making healthcare more accessible to the community at large. She and her team created a “hub and spoke”

| photo by Bárbara

model, with the hospital serving as the hub and smaller, dispersed facilities as the spokes.

Those spokes include freestanding emergency departments, urgent care centers, OB clinics, family practice clinics, medical laboratories, and more.

“The reason we want to be accessible is because we want our community to be able to get the healthcare they need at the time that they need it,” she said. “It’s so important for people to feel comfortable to go and get the care that they need. Now, if for whatever reason, they do need a higher level of care, then of course they can come to the main hospital.”

Rivera takes pride in having returned to serve her hometown community by chipping away at the stigma that one must leave the Valley to receive the proper, quality medical care they need.

“I always found that disturbing, and so when I had an opportunity to work in Houston, I started to think about when I would be able to come back home and bring my vision,” she said.

Part of the vision was recruiting others who had left the RGV back home. The hospital works closely with local colleges and universities to do so.

“Having that integration makes it more cohesive,” she said.

Rivera shared it was one of her mentors that encouraged her to return.

“We have a very cohesive culture and we want

to take care of each other,” she said. “We want to take care of our friends and family. As professionals, we want to be able to do this above all else. We are committed to the care and improvement of human life.”

This proved especially true when COVID hit. Every single hospital in the region was being overwhelmed with patients and difficult decisions had to be made, fast. Hidalgo County Judge Richard Cortez united the CEOs of every local health system to work collaboratively and tackle the crisis as best as they could.

“We were all in support of each other in order to come together and care for the people of the RGV,” she said.

Though she will soon enter retirement after a 45-year career spent making strides in healthcare, Rivera plans to continue serving the community through advisory roles. Outside of this passion, she looks forward to travel plans and spending more time with her two grandchildren.

“My legacy will be that I did make a difference in people's lives,” she said. “I am so pleased to have made a full circle and come back home to be able to serve this community that I so very much love.

“I hope my legacy will continue and that others will pick up where I left off and continue improving the care that is being provided in order to improve lives in every possible respect.”

“The reason we want to be accessible is because we want our community to be able to get the healthcare they need at the time that they need it.”

Cris Rivera, CEO of Rio Grande Regional Hospital

CREATING A SUCCESSFUL PATH

Jennifer Cano Garza, Committed to Serving the Community

by Selene Guerrero | photo by James Hord

More than 1.2 million people call the Rio Grande Valley home. Many were born and raised in the Valley and continued their education at local colleges and universities. Many have also gone away, firm on making a life for themself elsewhere.

But sometimes, a person will wind up back where they started because the Valley will always be home. They return with a new perspective and desire to give back and take care of the community in which they were raised.

Jennifer Cano Garza left the area many years ago to pursue her bachelor’s degree. She never thought she would return. Her plans were set. She was going to become a physician, but after taking a summer program, she decided that wasn’t the path for her.

Still, she felt a connection to healthcare. Then someone recommended healthcare administration. That was it.

“I ended up at Trinity University and got my master’s, and then like they say, ‘the rest is history,’” said Garza, Cano Consulting Firm CEO.

She began climbing the ladder in her career and went on to serve as Chief Operating Officer for Saint Joseph Medical Center in Houston. Her success in healthcare administration spanned over the course of more than 20 years; she served as a C-level executive for other organizations, including Universal Health Services. In several of those roles, she was the youngest female CEO.

“It was definitely an experience working in corporate America and being a Hispanic woman in a male-dominated industry,” she said. “There is extra pressure being a woman to produce, but it has made me a better business person. It molded me to be the person I am today.”

Eventually, Garza brought the valuable experience back to the RGV and, for several years, continued working in healthcare administration. She took the helm as CEO of South Texas Health System Edinburg and South Texas Health System Children’s and continued making strides in the industry. And she did it because she was not

only passionate about healthcare and her patients, but because this was her community.

“There’s a connection here and also a sense of purpose to give back to our community,” Garza said.

Recently, Garza pivoted from her role in healthcare administration. She launched Cano Consulting Firm to share her wealth of business education she picked up through the course of her career leading large healthcare organizations. Her firm gives back to the business community by providing business leaders with the tools to lead successful organizations.

The RGV is an economic powerhouse and rich in business and entrepreneurship, and as businesses big and small grow and evolve with business trends and markets, there is always room for improvement.

Garza offers services such as strategic planning, financial planning, healthcare business services, workforce composition, employee retention planning strategies, keynote speaking and training, and more.

Garza helps leaders focus and prioritize in order to grow and improve. Her job is to take the challenges her clients face and come up with a plan to create a successful path.

“How do we make an impact?” she said. “That’s really my purpose. I feel like this is the right place for me in terms of my career and what I’m trying to do.”

When she made her way back home, she returned with a commitment to serve her community. Now, through her firm, her reach is broader, and she is now helping the business community grow even stronger.

“It’s very rewarding for me because I feel like I can help a lot more people versus just being in one organization,” she said. “People are looking for a purpose, and I find it here. Even though the Valley is challenging, it has a lot of opportunity, and that is what I want to bring.”

For more information on Cano Consulting and the services offered, visit canoconsultingfirm.com.

GAME ON

Iron Bones Gaming Powers Up and Offers a ‘Modern’ Arcade

by Nathaniel Mata | photos by Art Garza

Ernesto Treviño is putting a social spin on a popular activity.

Inside a plaza across the street from the Basilica of Our Lady of San Juan del Valle is Iron Bones, a “modern arcade” that has the latest consoles and games in a setting where kids can do what they already love together.

He watched his children and nephews get into gaming and get bullied in school for it. He knew a place to play with like-minded kids was a need in the community.

After looking around for what he envisioned, he realized he’d have to create his own space if he wanted to do it right.

“I have a total of 25 to 26 consoles,” Treviño said. “Of course they all have TVs. Some are curved monitors. We have screens of all different sizes. It’s a lounge type of setting; we even have sports packages on TV so they can come in and watch games.”

Iron Bones offers more than just the latest games. It is also a place for gamers to get together, make friends, and enjoy a safe haven.

The idea was born at the height of the pandemic when the house was noisy, and Treviño was getting into games. He noticed that video games were something that

captured the attention of youngsters in his family.

Gaming has steadily shifted from an arcade trend in the 1980s and has moved closer and closer to home. At-home gaming with consoles, like PlayStation, Xbox, or Nintendo systems, has become commonplace over the decades.

Cell phones make it even easier to play a video game at any time.

This easy access to digital fun is great for gamers, but the downside is a possible disconnect from others and social anxiety outside of games. Treviño feels that Iron Bones can tackle that problem by getting young people in the same room to “squad up” in person.

“Maybe your kid is a little too isolated, and you want them to socialize,” he said. “It's the place to be. There are a lot of ways to get in trouble, and we want to be able to give an option away from that.

“It’s a good place for kids. We hope parents can feel comfortable when they hear about us. We’re an arcade. You don’t have to drop your kids at the mall, worry where they are and spend a lot of money.”

It’s not his first business, but Treviño said

it’s a stiff challenge to stay profitable in this economic climate. Helping kids who might be shy or bullied in school and giving them a place to have a good time is enough for him. He has seen Iron Bones turn into a place where people can feel safe.

“For the kids that go, it’s definitely worth it — a dream come true,” Treviño said. “It makes me happy…doing something good for the Valley.”

Iron Bones is located at 200 W Expy 83 Suite N, San Juan, TX 78589. The arcade offers monthly memberships, as well as daily passes.

“I have a total of 25 to 26 consoles. Of course they all have TVs. Some are curved monitors. We have screens of all different sizes."

Ernesto Treviño, Iron Bones owner

“DRAM SHOP” LIABILITY IN TEXAS

Think Before You Let Others Drink

In the event that a drunk driver kills or injures themself or another after being over-served alcohol, it is important for the victim and/or their families to be able to seek justice from all negligent parties.

A “Dram Shop” is defined as a commercial establishment that sells alcoholic beverages. Dram shop cases are becoming more and more prevalent. There were 25,261 drunk driving crashes in 2021 in Texas alone, with 1,209 people killed as a result.

These numbers are horrific and are continuing in an upward trend both statewide and nationally. In part due to the practice of “Sunday Funday” that has gained popularity, we are seeing an influx of potential dram shop cases.

In Texas, there are statutory causes of action that can be found in the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Code §2.02. One is known as the “Dram Shop Act”.

A number of factors may play a role in the frequency and causes of these drunk driving fatalities. However, what we are seeing is that a number of bars and other commercial establishments are over-serving their patrons.

Let's think about it for a second. Have you ever gone to a bar that is advertising promotions such as “two for one shots,” or “$5 you-call-it?”

Establishments often incentivize the sale of alcohol because they rely more on alcohol than food sales. Establishments may offer incentives to bartenders who sell more alcoholic beverages, failing to train their

employees on over-serving. These factors can lead to devastating consequences.

The Texas Dram Shop Act provides for two avenues of liability when a person is injured due to being over-served alcohol: when a commercial provider serves alcohol to an obviously intoxicated adult, or an adult (21 years or older and who is not the minor’s parent or guardian) knowingly served or provided to the minor any alcoholic beverages that contributed to the minor’s intoxication or allowed the minor to be served alcoholic beverages on the premises owned or leased by the adult.

What this means is, as an adult, if you allow minors to get intoxicated on your property or you provide the alcohol to the minors, you are liable under Texas law. You should think twice about letting your children’s (minor) friends drink on your property.

What about guests of legal age who drink alcohol at a party?

Texas law provides that a “social host” who serves alcohol to (of age) adult guests does not fall within the act, as long as the alcoholic beverages are served without a charge. If you charge your guests for alcohol, you may be negligent under the law if they are over-served.

At Farah Law, our attorneys are experienced in prosecuting establishments for over-serving their patrons. We have secured millions of dollars for violations of the Texas Dram Shop Act.

If you choose to drink, please drink responsibly. We have offices throughout the state of Texas, for more information, call 956-800-4340 or visit us at www.gflawoffices.com.

VALLEY BAPTIST-BROWNSVILLE HELPING GIVE BIRTH TO NEW GENERATION

Hospital Welcomes Baby Boom in 2022, Delivers More Than 2,000 Babies

by Matt Lynch | photos by Dafne Maldonado

As Valley Baptist Medical Center-Brownsville celebrates its centennial anniversary of caring for the community (1923-2023), a quick check of the history books shows a close similarity between Valley Baptist in 2022 and the city of Brownsville in 1860.

Valley Baptist-Brownsville’s labor & delivery team welcomed a whopping 2,217 babies to the world in 2022, nearly matching the city of Brownsville’s estimated

population of 2,700 in 1860 – the smallest recorded census for the city since it was founded in 1848, according to records from The Texas Almanac.

Last year’s delivery numbers are staggering, as they surpassed what was already considered a busy 2021, said Miriam Longoria, Valley Baptist-Brownsville’s director of labor & delivery, obstetric operating rooms, and the mother-baby unit.

“We thought that 2021 was definitely a busy year with 1,927 babies delivered,” she said. “However, 2022 truly exceeded our wildest expectations. To top it off, the baby boom of 2022 definitely would appear to be carrying on into 2023, as we have already delivered 37 more babies so far in January than we did at this time last year.”

Longoria, who has spent 18 years – the last four at Valley Baptist-Brownsville – caring for the community’s mothers and newborns, said the work of delivering so many babies is accompanied by a special feeling of pride for her and her team of nurses.

“Valley Baptist has been serving our community for quite literally a century, and it is an honor and a privilege for us to be there at what can be considered the most special time for these mothers and their babies,” she said. “This is their journey and their birth experience, and they have given us the special opportunity to ensure a safe outcome for mom and baby. We are humbled by the opportunity and cannot wait to deliver another century’s worth of Brownsville’s babies.”

That feeling of pride, however, also comes with a unique set of challenges that require commitment and dedication to overcome. From promoting an “all hands on deck” culture in labor & delivery to making sure patient care space is properly utilized to keep mothers and babies comfortable during their stay. Longoria said Valley Baptist-Brownsville’s specialized team of maternity care professionals works hard to provide a safe, high-quality experience for every patient.

“Our jobs certainly can require some creativity at times,” she said. “Most importantly, we have had to find ways to optimize space to make sure we have enough beds and equipment to safely and comfortably care for our patients. Labor can often be very unpredictable, so it also requires flexibility of the staff and leadership as well when it comes to scheduling.

“Staff throughout the entire hospital have played a

role in caring for our mothers and their babies in some fashion during our baby boom, and it has truly been very heartwarming to see everyone come together for our community.”

With no slowdown in deliveries anticipated in early 2023, Longoria said her team will continue to treat each mother’s delivery as a uniquely special experience.

“What sets us apart is our couplet care model,” she said. “We strive to keep mom and baby together as much as possible. We also approach every delivery with an open mind, and collaborate with our physicians to make sure that each mother’s delivery wishes are accommodated, within reason, with the safety of mom and baby in mind.

“We most definitely want everyone’s birth experience to be as memorable as possible, and we strive to make those cherished memories. I look forward to maintaining the trust of our community and delivering upon our promise to provide a safe and memorable birth experience.”

“Staff throughout the entire hospital have played a role in caring for our mothers and their babies in some fashion during our baby boom, and it has truly been very heartwarming to see everyone come together for our community.”

Miriam Longoria, Valley Baptist-Brownsville’s director of labor & delivery, obstetric operating rooms, and the mother-baby unit

THE MENTAL HEALTH OF PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES

An Overlooked Effect of Disability

National Disabilities Awareness Month, observed throughout the month of March, raises awareness about the inclusion of people with disabilities and addresses the barriers that those with disabilities face. This gives us an opportunity to recognize the ways disability impacts people’s lives, provide education on available services, and highlight ways to be an advocate.

Current estimates indicate that just in the United States, one in four adults — that is 61 million people — have a disability. Disabilities limit the functioning of a person and their ability to carry out activities of daily living. These limitations may include difficulty walking or climbing stairs, hearing, seeing, concentrating, remembering, or making decisions.

Although often deemed as a single population, people with disabilities constitute a diverse group of people with a wide range of needs. While certain disabilities are very visible, others may be hidden or not immediately noticeable. Similarly, disability may impact people in very different ways.

Many people living with disabilities experience significant physical challenges, such as immobility or extreme pain, as well as social challenges, such as isolation or being excluded from social events and activities. In addition, people with disabilities may have

trouble finding a job, attending school, and getting around outside their homes.

Dealing with these types of challenges can take a toll on any person’s mental health. Having a disability has been established as a risk factor for poor mental health. Compounding the issue of disability, people living with disabilities frequently experience loneliness, abuse from caregivers, discrimination, and lack of access to proper care.

According to the CDC:

• In the United States, adults with disabilities report experiencing frequent mental distress almost five times as often as adults without disabilities.

• Frequent mental distress is linked to adverse health behaviors, increased utilization of health services, mental disorders, chronic diseases, and functional limitations.

• People with disabilities are more likely to live below the federal poverty level and more likely to lack access to health care due to costs.

BARRIERS TO MENTAL HEALTH CARE

Mental health professionals as a group strive to properly serve the mental health needs of diverse and marginalized groups, including individuals with disabilities. Nevertheless, people with disabilities often encounter challenges when seeking mental health treatment, such

as insufficient services available, lack of health insurance coverage, prohibitive costs, lack of reliable transportation (particularly for a person with a mobility-related disability), communication impediments, and provider misconceptions about disabilities, among others.

IMPROVING MENTAL HEALTH

• Taking Care of Mind and Body. Paying attention to your physical and emotional health is essential. Taking care of the body is very important and can have a significant positive impact on one’s mental health. Focus on eating healthy meals, exercising (whatever that may look like for you), practicing meditation and mindfulness, getting plenty of sleep, and limiting alcohol consumption.

• Connecting with Others. Talking to family, friends, and other loved ones about your mental health concerns and how you are feeling can be of great value. Consider increasing your participation in the community. Try signing up for a class or pursuing a new hobby.

• Counseling and Therapy. Accessing mental health services such as counseling, or therapy is crucial for those living with disabilities who are struggling with mental health issues. Talking to a qualified and trusted mental health professional can be a great way to process difficult emotions, such as frustration and anger, and can

also be an effective way to enhance a person’s confidence and self-esteem.

MENTAL HEALTH RESOURCES

• There are several resources available to people with disabilities who are struggling with mental health issues.

• The Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) and the National Centers on Disability websites provide information on improving the physical and mental quality of life for people living with disabilities.

• The American Association for People with Disabilities offers a wealth of resources that can help find accessible treatment and support for people with disabilities struggling with poor mental health or mental illness.

The National Alliance on Mental Health is dedicated to improving the lives of people affected by mental illness across the county.

(Co-Authors include Dr. Mercado’s Mental Health Lab at UTRGV Frances Morales, Andy Torres, Amanda Palomin)

PROVIDED

ARTICLE

BY Alfonso Mercado

PH.D., Licensed Psychologist Department of Psychological Science at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley www.utrgv.edu/multicultural-clinical-lab/

PROVIDING QUALITY DENTAL CARE

Choosing University Dental, Tips from the Experts for a Healthy Smile

by Jillian Cameron |

photos by Abe

As a family-owned dental practice, University Dental prides itself in treating patients with uniquely sincere care. Offering high-quality dental care in Edinburg with a mission to build long-term relationships with their clients, University Dental’s Dr. Cynthia Garcia Longoria and Dr. David Longoria operate from a special philosophy. They only recommend treatments to patients that they would recommend to their own loved ones. Ultimately, the doctors at University Dental are treating people, not teeth, and want all patients to receive the care and education they deserve, with patient comfort as a top priority.

Hernandez

Walking into the office, patients are met with plush couches in the waiting area, along with a clean and comfortable atmosphere. When called, they are led to an inviting room with state-of-the-art dental chairs providing a relaxing experience for the dentist to meet with them and assess their needs.

The husband and wife team share a passion for dental health and providing an all-around excellent patient experience.

Dr. Cynthia is an Edinburg native. She completed her education and training at St. Mary's University for her

Bachelor of Science in Biology and earned her Doctorate in Dentistry at the University of Texas Health Science Center. Additionally, she is a member of the American Dental Association, Texas Dental Association, and Dentists Who Care, a private non-profit.

Dr. David is from El Paso. He received his Bachelor’s of Art & Science from St. Mary’s University and his Doctorate in Dentistry from Texas A&M, Baylor College of Dentistry. His special services include tooth-colored fillings, bridges, crowns, and teeth whitening.

This team is equipped to diagnose, treat and provide care for oral health concerning patients’ gums and teeth. And they want to empower their patients to also care for their own oral health.

FLOSS AND BRUSH YOUR TEETH TWICE A DAY

Many patients struggle to remember the importance of flossing. Flossing is essential to maintaining a healthy smile for many reasons, but did you also know it can help prevent gum disease? Put your floss in a place you’ll see it when you’re brushing your teeth so you won’t forget!

USE A FLUORIDE TOOTHPASTE

Fluoride helps protect teeth from tooth decay. It helps make teeth strong and more resistant to acid, stops early tooth decay, and puts healthy minerals back in your teeth.

USE A SOFT BRISTLE TOOTHBRUSH

We recommend soft bristle toothbrushes because they are gentle on your teeth and gums while still being able to remove harmful bacteria and plaque. Both children and adults should use soft bristles, as it allows for brushing close to the gum without irritation.

VISIT UNIVERSITY DENTAL EVERY SIX MONTHS FOR YOUR CLEANING

A regular six-month cleaning from our team of experts will help prevent tooth decay and gum disease. Our professional cleaning tools are used to keep your healthy smile strong!

With over 35 years of experience, patients can be confident they are in good hands at University Dental. Our dedicated team is committed to providing the highest quality dental care to serve Edinburg and the entire Rio Grande Valley.

AIMING TO HEAL

South Texas Health System Provides Advanced Medical Imaging Services to Give Doctors a Clear Picture of Your Health

by Selene Guerrero | photos provided

Radiology is an integral part of healthcare. Diagnostic imaging is a series of images taken of various parts of the body based on a patient’s needs. This series of tests gives physicians a unique look inside the body.

There are many types of imaging exams that can give doctors a better look at what’s going on.

Doctors rely on exams, such as X-rays, MRIs, ultrasounds, CT scans, and mammograms, to detect diseases and provide proper treatment and diagnosis.

For years, patients across the Rio Grande Valley have turned to South Texas Health System to provide the latest and most comprehensive imaging services in the region at its four acute care hospitals and six freestanding emergency departments.

The Advanced Imaging Centers at STHS McAllen and STHS Edinburg each house an advanced interventional radiology lab, featuring the Canon Alphenix Sky+ radiography system, which offers patients enhanced options for minimally invasive procedures. Types of interventional radiology procedures that can be performed include angioplasty, biopsy, embolization, fluoroscopy, and thrombolysis.

The advantages patients have when considering interventional radiology opposed to traditional surgery include less pain, no general anesthesia, typically, faster

recovery, and no hospital stay.

STHS also has six freestanding emergency rooms throughout Hidalgo County that offer a variety of diagnostic imaging services, including CT scans, digital X-rays, ultrasound, and DEXA scans. In addition, STHS ER Weslaco offers open MRI services.

“The convenience of the locations and the services we offer the community is what sets us apart, not to mention the great staff that demonstrate compassionate care once you arrive at any of our sites,” said STHS McAllen Director of Radiology & Imaging Charlie Aguirre. “Whether coming in for minor aches and sprains or lifethreatening injuries and chest pain, our STHS ERs are ready.”

The new and improved radiology departments come with several upgrades, like the 3T MRI machine that generates a magnetic field twice as strong as a traditional MRI. This gives doctors a more detailed image in less time.

STHS Edinburg and McAllen have been recognized for their advanced radiology and have earned the following accolades:

• American College of Radiology (ACR) for meeting strict certification standards (Edinburg)

• Accreditation in MRI and Nuclear Medicine by the

American College of Radiology (McAllen)

• 2021 Women’s Choice Awards for Best Hospitals for Mammogram Imaging Center (Edinburg & McAllen)

STHS Edinburg also has a new women’s imaging suite, part of the hospital’s enhanced radiology department, that provides women requiring imaging services a spalike experience. The Women’s Imaging Suite offers bone density scans, stereotactic breast biopsies, ultrasound scans, and enhanced mammography services, including 3D mammograms.

STHS Edinburg and McAllen both offer 2D and 3D mammograms, while the freestanding emergency rooms in Weslaco and Mission offer 2D mammograms.

“We can provide a more relaxing environment with a dedicated waiting area in our women’s imaging suite,” said Aguirre. “There, you will be greeted by our mammography team, where the patient’s exam is explained, and time

is given for any questions or concerns our patients may have.”

The anatomical detail is steadily improving with technological advancements, including STHS Edinburg’s 640-slice CT machine, which is one of the most powerful tools used to diagnose cardiovascular disease. The scanner uses 80% less radiation, and the 640-slice CT scanner can image the entire heart in under three seconds.

These expanded radiology services give patients the care they need right here without leaving the Valley to receive this level of comprehensive imaging services. Everything a patient needs can be taken care of locally.

“With the commitment STHS has made to provide state-of-the-art advanced imaging technology for the communities we serve and the dedicated employees who love doing what they do, there is no need for anyone to leave the Valley any longer,” Aguirre said.

“The convenience of the locations and the services we offer the community is what sets us apart, not to mention the great staff that demonstrate compassionate care once you arrive at any of our sites.”

Charlie Aguirre, STHS McAllen Director

of Radiology & Imaging

DR. FILIBERTO RODRIGUEZ

Plastic Surgeon Serving the Rio Grande Valley

by Jillian Cameron | photos provided

To follow in his father’s footsteps, Dr. Filiberto Rodriguez set out to pursue a career as a cardiac surgeon. He completed his undergraduate degree at Princeton University, received a full scholarship to the University of Virginia School of Medicine, then began the cardiovascular surgical program at Stanford University.

“My father started heart surgery here in McAllen in 1983, and his program was ranked number one in the State of Texas for outcomes and safety,” Dr. Rodriguez said.

The Rio Grande Valley local who had been passionately dedicated to becoming a heart surgeon suffered an injury that would set him on a new specialty. “I always loved plastic surgery,” Dr. Rodriguez said. Plastic surgery was the only other specialty that had captured the attention of the dedicated student.

Dr. Rodriguez was encouraged by his professors to apply for an opening in the plastic surgery fellowship at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). His resume spoke for itself, and he was accepted.

He detailed the six-year integrated training in the world of plastic surgery, which includes operating on burn victims, children with cleft palates, and cancer survivors. He was especially drawn to the cosmetic portion of plastic surgery. “I liked aesthetic plastic surgery,” he said.

Dr. Rodriguez decided to refine his cosmetic surgical skills and experience by committing to an additional one-year fellowship through the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery at the Body Sculpting Center in Scottsdale, Arizona, where he personally performed over 1,000 surgeries.

“The whole year was spent doing advanced cosmetic surgery,” Dr. Rodriguez explained.

Performing surgeries with Beverly Hills-quality results, he was asked to stay in Scottsdale to continue performing advanced cosmetic procedures. He chose to come back to the Rio Grande Valley.

“South Texas is very unique; it’s one of the fastest growing areas in Texas along with Austin,” said Dr. Rodriguez, sharing his reasons for moving back.

Soon after opening his practice, RGV Cosmetic Surgery and Vein Center, Dr. Rodriguez began receiving a lot of patients who were coming in for corrective surgery due to botched jobs elsewhere.

Dr. Rodriguez is passionate about providing premier patient safety and education, and the reviews from his patients speak for themselves. “I think people neglect patient safety.

For some reason, people tend to downplay the risks associated with cosmetic surgery. Patients were surprised that they were actually speaking to the surgeon during the consultation and getting education,” he said.

Dr. Rodriguez has received numerous awards, including funding from the National Institutes of Health, The American College of Surgeons Scholarship for the Study of Surgical Wound Healing, and The American Heart Association Vivien Thomas Award. He holds a triple certification with the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery, the American Board of Surgery, and the American Board of Venous Lymphatic Medicine.

RGV Cosmetic Surgery and Vein Center is the leading cosmetic surgery and varicose vein care center of South Texas. The practice offers a highlytrained and qualified staff, and a wide range of effective treatment options for patients. For more information, visit their website at www.rgvcosmetic. com.

BUTTERFLY AMBASSADORS FOR OUR POLLINATOR

COMMUNITY

by John Brush, Urban Ecologist at Quinta Mazatlan | photos provided

Quinta Mazatlan Helps Conserve the Monarch Butterfly

There is value in being a highly recognizable face for a movement or a larger community – an ambassador for a cause. It is a frequently used tactic for charity and nonprofit organizations asking for action, such as using a celebrity in advertisements to reach more people.

This idea extends to wildlife conservation, where charismatic or iconic species are used as ambassadors to bring people together in conservation efforts – giraffes in Africa and pandas in China, for example.

Here in North America, one of our most recognizable wildlife ambassadors is the monarch butterfly (Danaus plexippus). They have key traits that help get them such wide-spread awareness. They are brightly-colored and large butterflies, have a range that extends from Canada through the United States and into Mexico, and despite recent population declines, they are common enough to be regularly encountered by millions of people.

There are many efforts underway to help conserve the monarch butterfly — on an international scale, down to neighborhoods and individual homes. The City of McAllen has been a supporter since 2016 through the Mayors’ Monarch Pledge from the National Wildlife Federation.

Recently, Mayor Javier Villalobos was recognized for his leadership in creating habitats for monarchs through restoration projects, native plant giveaways, and raising awareness with art murals and community events. While these sorts of efforts have and can continue to make a difference for monarch populations, the effects of those actions extend beyond our favorite milkweed-lovers.

One of the reasons wildlife organizations choose ambassador species is due to the umbrella species concept, where actions taken to support one species can also provide benefits for other species – like an umbrella held by one person protecting another from the rain.

Because monarchs migrate long distances across North America, the actions taken to support them –creating wildflower meadows, planting nectar plants in parks, growing milkweeds – also benefit many other pollinator species in those areas. For example, one of the Monarch butterfly’s favorite nectar plants in our area is the southern seaside goldenrod (Solidago Mexicana), which is a favorite of many pollinating bees, beetles, flies, and  wasps.

The same applies to many other plants adult monarchs use for nectar, including crucita (Chromolaena odorata), betonyleaf mistflower (Conoclinium betonicifolium), and Mexican trixis (Trixis inula).

And the same goes for the milkweeds eaten by monarch caterpillars. Other insects that benefit from milkweeds

include tussock moths (Genus euchaetes), which also host on milkweeds, as well as various species of milkweed longhorn beetles (Genus tetraopes). Milkweed flowers are also resources for pollinating insects, including bees and wasps.

When McAllen plants new native milkweeds and nectar plants, more than just monarch butterflies are being supported. Entire communities of life can benefit, including us.

Learn more about monarch butterflies and other pollinators at the McAllen Monarch Festival, which will be held on April 1 at Quinta Mazatlan. Join the celebration full of fun activities for all ages. Follow Quinta Mazatlan on social media for more information.

Megachilidae (Sayapsis)

Painted lady on Crucita

KEEPING YOUR NEW YEAR'S RESOLUTIONS

Seven Tips for Success

by Jillian Cameron

It’s well into the beginning of the New Year. Do you feel like a “new you?” Many who sat down and crafted New Year’s resolutions before January 1st might be feeling a little discouraged if they haven’t been making progress. According to recent research, fewer than 8% of people stick to their resolutions. Still, millions of people continue setting goals for themselves with a hope to change.

Don’t lose heart if you’re not where you want to be. With these seven tips, you can make headway in achieving your goals for 2023.

1. BE REALISTIC

It might be a good idea to go back through your list of goals and make adjustments if needed. Some goals might be a little unrealistic for you to achieve at this time. For

example, if you have never stepped foot in the gym and your goal is to exercise seven days a week for one hour at a time, you should start smaller. What about going to the gym three times a week for 30 minutes? Consider modifying any lofty and overwhelming goals into smaller, more measurable ones.

2.

IDENTIFY YOUR OBSTACLES

Don’t let shame keep you from giving proper attention to what’s standing in your way. Identify your obstacles clearly for yourself to understand what the hang-up is. Different goals bring different obstacles. If you want to wake up at 5 a.m. every day, some potential obstacles could be staying up too late, or not having a plan for what your mornings should look like. Make a plan for how you’ll overcome these obstacles to set yourself up well for success.

3. TRACK YOUR

PROGRESS

Utilize some kind of system where you can visually see your progress. You might keep a journal or a color-coded calendar. There are even specially designed goal-tracking apps that can beautifully display your hard work over a given period of time. Tracking your progress is helpful with keeping the big picture in mind, as well as looking back on how far you’ve come.

4. REWARD YOURSELF AT CHECKPOINTS

What’s wrong with a little extra motivation? You know what makes you tick. Sometimes the right carrot dangling in front of you can light the fire needed to get the job done. Next time you’re tempted to splurge on yourself, save it for when you can see progress on a goal. Set up checkpoints in your calendar to identify milestones worthy of a reward!

5. GET A BUDDY

Having a friend join you in the pursuit of your goal can elevate your motivation and increase accountability. Not to mention, your friend would benefit as well! If you are struggling with a goal, find a friend to join you. Discuss your goals together and make a plan for how you both will meet them and celebrate small victories together.

6. FOCUS ON STARTING A BEHAVIOR

Sometimes, a mindset shift is needed to make our goal work for us. If your goals all start out with “don’t do this” or “stop doing that,” you might be setting yourself up for failure. Work smarter, not harder! Think about replacing a goal that seeks to terminate a behavior with a goal that starts a new behavior. For example, if one of your goals is to stop eating fast food every day, consider modifying that goal to, “cook dinner at home three nights a week.” It’s easier to start a new behavior instead of stopping an existing one.

7. DON’T GIVE UP

Lasting change doesn’t come easy. Don’t be too hard on yourself if you feel like you’re not where you should be. However, you shouldn’t just ignore your struggles or you’ll never make any progress. Spend some time reflecting on your desires for each goal. Why did you create this goal in the first place? What is it that you’re hoping to achieve? Keep the end in mind. It’s not too late for you to meet your goals for 2023.

SOUTH PADRE ISLAND

SPRING BREAK

Enjoy Texas Travel Awards Destination of the Year

by Joanney Uthe

With 34 miles of coastline and over 300 days of sunshine, South Padre Island is the perfect spot to spend Spring Break. Awarded Destination of the Year 2022 by Texas Travel Awards, SPI has something for everyone.

While most local colleges and high schools are on break March 13 to 18, Spring Break season at SPI is not limited to one week.

“In South Padre Island, we consider the whole month of March to be Spring Break season,” said Dennise Hernandez of the South Padre Island Convention and Visitors Bureau.

There are many ways to enjoy a day at the beach. Some may want to simply rent an umbrella and chairs to relax in the sun, while others may enjoy a swim or some playtime in the water. The more adventurous will want to try parasailing, flyboarding, kiteboarding, wakeboarding, or stand-up paddleboarding.

There are also many options for boat tours. Combine dolphin watching with an ecology lesson on what is pulled up in a trawling net. Become a pirate on the Black Dragon Pirate Ship. Go bay fishing in the Laguna Madre, or deep-sea fishing in the Gulf of Mexico. Snorkeling excursions in Laguna Madre may reveal stingrays, eels, jellyfish, turtles, herrings, dolphins, crabs, and a large variety of fish.

UPCOMING EVENTS

SAT- SUN MARCH 18-19

WED- THU MARCH 22-23

THURSDAY MARCH 31

FRI-SUN MARCH 31-APRIL 2

FRI-SUN APRIL 28-30

The Laguna Madre Nature Trail boasts a 1,500-foot boardwalk through marshlands where visitors have spotted more than 300 species of birds. Alligators, butterflies, and sea turtles can be seen from the boardwalk, which begins at the South Padre Island Convention Center.

“Families can enjoy eco-tourism centers like Sea Turtle Inc. and the SPI Birding Nature Center and Alligator Sanctuary,” Hernandez said.

Sandcastle Trail is a collection of 30 sand sculptures throughout the island, including the largest sandcastle in

the United States. The Sea Turtle Art Trail consists of 11 permanent sea turtle sculptures around town.

While there are plenty of things to fill the daytime hours, many college students visit SPI during Spring Break for the nightlife. Clayton’s Beach Bar and Grill is the largest beach bar in Texas and has its Spring Break Beach Bash daily from March 1 to 24.

This year’s concerts include Lil Wayne, Steve Aoki, Kodak Black, DJ Diesel (aka Shaquille O’Neal), and GloRilla. The venue holds up to 7,000 people and has the largest spring break daytime event in the world.

“Families can enjoy eco-tourism centers like Sea Turtle Inc. and the SPI Birding Nature Center and Alligator Sanctuary."

Dennise Hernandez, South Padre Island Convention and Visitors Bureau

Spend the day swimming in the gulf and the night listening to music all at Clayton’s.

On the Laguna Madre side of town, Louie’s Backyard has four distinct bars on two floors. One bar is for locals only and is not available to students on Spring Break. In total, the venue can hold over 5,000 people and offers nightly music featuring Dee Jay Silver, DJ Big Easy, and DJ Slim McGraw. Known for its prime rib and seafood buffet, Louie’s Backyard advertises nightly contests with cash prizes.

Two other activities directed towards college students during Spring Break occur weekly. Peninsula Island Resort and Spa will be holding its “Infamous Infinity Pool Parties” on Mondays throughout the month of March from noon until 5 p.m. On Tuesdays at 4 p.m., students can take the Inertia Tours Party Yacht Cruise.

“College students can expect great concerts with famous artists live,” Hernandez said. “We have new artists headlining concerts that haven’t been to our island before. The college group ‘Beach Reach’ will also serve our island by providing free transportation services and meals.”

The island offers accommodations for all party sizes and budgets, including campsites, condos, hotels, and motels. Food options include everything from food trucks to fine dining and cover all cuisines. This year, the Nautico Island Grill and a Peruvian restaurant, Rocotto Grill, were introduced to SPI.

“Our visitors can’t forget that we offer the freshest seafood, and several restaurants offer the cook-you-catch service,” Hernandez said.

For families and college students alike, SPI is an ideal destination for Spring Break.

UPCOMING EVENTS

SUNDAY MARCH 5

WEDNESDAY MARCH 8

SATURDAY MARCH 11

TUESDAY MARCH 21

FRIDAY MARCH 24

SATURDAY MARCH 25

SATURDAY APRIL 1

SUNDAY APRIL 2

SATURDAY APRIL 15

SUNDAY APRIL 16

FRIDAY APRIL 21

SATURDAY APRIL 22

@MCALLENPAC 956.681.3800

conventioncenterdistrict.com

SMOKIN’& GROWIN’

Smokin’ Moon Proves that McAllen Area is Hungry for BBQ Excellence

by Nathaniel Mata | photos provided

One of the hottest barbecue spots in the Valley offers not just a place to chow down on delicious smoked meats, but also a spot to hang out and socialize.

Before focusing on the atmosphere, Owner Joseph Salinas wanted to master the pit. He had experience owning a restaurant, with Copper Moon, but to succeed as a BBQ joint in meat-crazy Texas took some practice.

“Our motto is everything we do we smoke it with love,” Salinas said. “That’s one thing that I think people should strive to do, and that’s what we do, put a lot of love into your craft and do it the best.”

Salinas said his barbecue skills had a ways to go, but he took lessons, began to cater for friends and family, and finally felt he was ready to open Smokin’ Moon, which has wowed eaters for nearly five years.

“I hadn’t barbecued in my life outside of grilling,” he said. “I took that as a challenge. I wanted to teach myself and do it right. I consumed myself with it to get where we are today.

We started the Pharr location in 2018, we’ll hit five years in October. We just opened a Trenton location in 2022, and we have a location in La Plaza mall, and we’re hoping for more.”

From his experience with Copper Moon, Salinas knew the Valley to create a spot where people would want to hang out and spend time together.

“What gives us the most satisfaction is people enjoying our food and getting together as families,” he said. “That’s what we like about barbecue, it’s a very communal food. People come in groups to eat and hang out. We wanted to give more than just a normal barbecue restaurant where you come in, eat, and leave.”

At Smokin’ Moon, along with the food, beer selections, and live music, give reasons for folks to kick their feet up and enjoy, whether they entered dressing for a business meeting, a date, or a family night out.

When asked if it was intimidating to open Smokin’ Moon in a state crazy about barbecue and in a region saturated with great places to eat, Salinas admitted it was scary.

“It was a little scary not knowing,” Salinas said. “I like to think of myself of a perfectionist. I want to do things at the highest level, I don’t want to be mediocre. Especially because the previous three years, I was more in the American cuisine type of food. It was a lot of preparation.”

Love and care are something that Salinas hopes shine through in all of the meals served at Smokin’ Moon. Not everyone will be aware of the thoughtfulness and planning behind the meals, but it should be noticeable in every bite.

“It was a lot of trial and error being able to get the flavor profiles we wanted,” he said. “We still stuck with our central Texas profile but with a little more of a southwestern flare that I wanted to add to my seasonings. I like to add the Valley flavor, which is more cumin, onion powder, garlic a little bit of chili powder for a kick.”

Smokin’ Moon’s doors are open to everyone, according to Salinas.

“I think about a place that I would want to go and hang out and be friendly,” he said. “So, I created a place that is pet friendly, where people from all walks of life could go and hang out.”

“What gives us the most satisfaction is people enjoying our food and getting together as families.”

Joseph Salinas , Smokin’ Moon owner

A MOMENT BACK IN TIME

Cine El Rey, a Historic Entertainment Hub in the Rio Grande Valley

by Selene Guerrero | photos courtesy of Cine El Rey

Cine El Rey Theatre has brought entertainment in many forms to South Texas during times when it mattered the most. When it first opened its doors more than 75 years ago, it was during a time when Mexican residents didn’t have access to watch movies in their own language.

Through the years, Cine El Rey has gone from opening as a popular theater during Mexico’s Golden Age of cinema, to, for a period, being a dollar theater, and at another point it was a church. Cine El Rey’s stage has also been the stepping stone that launched several careers for musicians, filmmakers, and comedians; it is an entertainment hub in the RGV.

“You have people walk in and get emotional,” said Cine El Rey owner Bert Guerra, who bought the theater with his brother Isaac Guerra in 2007. “This was their social media at the time. This was the spot where they had their first kiss, first date, all of that.

“It takes people back in time.”

Cine El Rey opened in May of 1947 at a time when McAllen and the rest of the region were largely segregated. The south side of the train tracks was for the Hispanic community, and that is where Cine El Rey thrived.

Cine El Rey, 1948.

Film Star Luis Aguilar making an appearance at Cine El Rey.

To the right of Aguilar is Arnaldo Ramirez, founder of Falcon Records in McAllen, Texas and father to legendary music promoter Nano Ramirez.

The orchestra backing Aguilar was Froilan Silva and his Ciro Club Orchestra. Froilan also owned a music store in McAllen, Texas that was essential in providing instruments and equipment to the growing regional Spanish music market inspired from the movie stars who made appearances on the Cine El Rey stage.

At that time, it was rare to have the opportunity to see your favorite Latin American actors on the silver screen, but Cine El Rey was the place for the community to watch the latest films starring actors like German Valdes ( known as Tin Tan) and Cantinflas. It made Mexican cinema accessible to everyone.

In its 75 years, it has gone from being a theater that opened for just one sector of the community, to now welcoming people from all walks of life and interests.

The theater now opens its doors to comedians and filmmakers, wrestlers, and musicians — some of whom are taking the stage for the first time.

“It’s like the Apollo for the Valley,” Bert Guerra said. “The biggest thing that it gives people is inspiration. That’s the biggest gift it has given.”

The space has evolved over the years, and it makes room for shows that pique just about everyone’s interest. There is no genre at Cine El Rey; it’s open to everyone.

In the early 2000s, Cine El Rey was registered in the National Register of Historic Places. In 2020, during the height of COVID-19, venues like Cine El Rey were affected, but managed to find economic relief through assistance programs such as the Shuttered Venue Operators Grant.

The Historic Cine El Rey Theatre Foundation is a nonprofit that Bert and his family created that raises money to support other community events hosted by the theater.

“This place takes people back in time, and then you have the new people who have a new claim to it,” said Bert. “It’s like anything else. It’s generational, and it’s been around for so long. Everybody has their own take on it.”

Actress Virginia Serret at Cine El Rey. She starred in over 30 films during Mexico's Golden Age of Cinema.

Center: Film Star Pedro Armendáriz Left: Cine El Rey's first Manager; Antonio Balderas Right: L.J. "Shine" Mason; Supervisor of The Queen, The Palace & Cine El Rey Theatres in McAllen, Texas.

Cine El Rey's first staff members.

WHEN WE SERVE TOGETHER IN OUR COMMUNITIES, EVERYONE SOARS.

Southwest Airlines® proudly partners with those who are helping to shape our communities all across America. One good deed—when coupled with another and another and another—can truly make a positive difference in our daily lives.

©

2010 Southwest Airlines Co.