SOCIALIFE MAGAZINE JUNE 2018

HIDALGO COUNTY EDITION YEAR 14 ISSUE 6

p.12

A Night at the Races CAMP University

p.26

p.32

Lionel’s Western Wear and Boutique

Mcallen ISD Highlights Individual Greatness

p.40

Non- Profit Spotlight Betty Ramirez-Lara

THE MAGAZINE OF THE RIO GRANDE VALLEY

District of Champions McAllen ISD

3rd Annual Spring Wine & Food Festival . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Hope is in Bloom 2018. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 McAllen Heritage Museum. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

SALLY FRAUSTRO GUERRA PRESIDENT + PUBLISHER

A Night at the Races. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Joyce Dean Retirement Celebration. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Aztectopia Book Release. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Mission Mayor’s Annual Prayer Luncheon. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Buenas Tardes Luncheon with Vince Young . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Renee’s of Sharyland Spa. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24 Lionel’s Western Wear & Boutique . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 1st SOCIALIFE Board Meeting. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

BRONSON DELRIO

VICE PRESIDENT + PUBLISHER

McAllen ISD. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 The Wild Plains. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 UTRGV Graduation Day, Spring 2018. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 Cinco de Mayo Dinner. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 Rotary Spotlight, Betty Ramirez-Lara . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 Spring Forward Fashion Show. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 Kumori | Inside the Kitchen. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44

KARLA KERNZ EDITOR

Quips & Quotes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46 7th Annual Boots & Bling. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 70’s Disco Law Day Gala 2018. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50 Reading Between the Lines. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52 The Perfect Mixer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53 RGV Aggie Moms Scholarship Golf Tournament . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54 Mexican Cultural Center Gala. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56 Bob’s Steak & Chop Ribbon Cutting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58

CHRISTINA BARRERA SALES COORDINATOR

Lone Star National Bank Ribbon Cutting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59 Title Talk. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60

CLIFF RANSON

PHOTOGRAPHY DIRECTOR

ON THE COVER: CLIFF RANSON BEHIND THE SCENES OF THE PHOTO SESSION WITH

Design Event Photographers

Guest Photographer UTRGV Credits Guest Writers

Decibel Communications Anai Noyola Lionel Castillo Christian Möller UTRGV News and Internal Communications Elva M. Cerda Betty Ramirez-Lara Tom Fort Norma Zamora-Guerra Mark May Letty Leal

MCALLEN ISD STUDENTS. MEET THEM ON PAGE 32.

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

Socialife is printed in Mexico Please recycle this magazine!

SPRING WINE & FOOD FESTIVAL 2018 Pharr Photography by Christina Barrera

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The Board of Directors and staff of the Boys & Girls Club of Pharr proudly presented the 3rd Annual Spring Wine & Food Festival. Guests experienced South Texas’ premiere cuisine and an array of wines while also enjoying a night of dancing and cigars.

All profits from this event go toward providing youth development programs to club members and to ensuring the future of Pharr’s kids through their summer programming and their building fund.

WWW.SOCIALIFERGV.COM

HOPE IS IN BLOOM 2018 ANNUAL GALA

Catholic Charities of the Rio Grande Valley celebrated more than 50 years of servicing the RGV, marking this milestone with their extraordinary annual gala. This year was hosted at the Embassy Suites Convention Center in McAllen, TX. Catholic Charities’ mission is to feed

McAllen Photography by Anai Noyola

the hungry, house the homeless, comfort the brokenhearted, and restore hope to the hopeless, and in the RGV, Catholic Charities has stood out by restoring human dignity on the border. The evening had live and silent auctions, a spring hat contest and most importantly, this year’s honoree for the Hope Award, which was presented to Mrs. Janet Vackar. The Cariño Award was presented to Mrs. Sally Fraustro Guerra. These awards were for their dedicated and passionate service to our community.

ROXANA BOLNIK DE BERNAL, EDUARDO BERNAL MARTÍNEZ, AND SISTER NORMA PIMENTEL

CONGRESSMAN VICENTE GONZALEZ AND VICTOR PEREZ

JANET VACKAR AND SISTER NORMA PIMENTEL

DAVID TORRES, ELLI TORRES, MELISSA RODRIGUEZ, AND JP. RODRIGUEZ

SISTER NORMA, BISHOP DANIEL FLORES, JANET VACKAR AND SALLY FRAUSTRO GUERRA

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A DECADE OF DEDICATION THE MCALLEN HERITAGE CENTER, INC. MUSEUM OF HISTORY & CULTURE

The McAllen Centennial festivities held in 2004 included a festival held at Archer Park and dinner gala in celebration of McAllen’s 100 years of history. Due to the success of these events, Centennial committee members began discussions towards developing a place for the community to enjoy learning about McAllen’s past. (MHC) was formed in early 2006 as a not-for-profit corporation for this purpose with a founding board comprised of a core of Centennial committee members.

The Mission of the museum is to provide a place to exhibit and to assist in the preservation of sites, works of art, documents, papers, pictures, records and writings of historical, traditional or cultural value. The MHC wants to perpetuate those customs of the people and traditions and folklore, which beautify and enrich the community life of historic McAllen, Texas. One primary goal of the MHC is to cooperate with other persons, groups, organizations and agencies in effecting these objectives and with educating the public, especially our youth with the knowledge of the inherited regional values.

The museum base collection was the result of the McAllen Old-timer’s Clubs memorial contribution to MHC on behalf of Helen Snider, a member of the club who passed away before her dream of establishing the museum came to fruition.

Her diligent acquisition and preservation of historical items assisted the MHC in developing a foundation of exhibit materials. The McAllen Centennial Committee also made a generous monetary contribution towards the creation of the center.

When MHC founding President, Rick De Julio lost his courageous battle with cancer, his family also made significant memorial contributions to MHC. During 2006 to 2008, the founding board completed the work involved in the establishment of the museum which included securing and caring for the base collection until such time as our museum location was determined. The board also engaged in a successful fundraising campaign in the community to raise seed money necessary to fund initial operations of the museum and began to work closely with the City of McAllen for funding support.

Today, the MHC, which opened to the public in June 2008, is located at the beautiful and historic “La Placita” building and former McAllen Post Office which was built in 1935. MHC is the result of the diligent and tedious work of the founding board towards developing the museum as well as the extraordinary support received from the City of McAllen and our community.

Current staff members who are also founding board members include Mrs. Elva M. Cerda, serving as our Managing Director and Mr. Spurgeon “Spud” Brown who is serving as our historian and tour guide. Other staff members include Lily Hernandez and Philip Mercado serving as a Museum Services Assistants. Our long term volunteers are Maynard and Fern Kreidler, Dr. Clark VonHeller of South Texas College and Virginia Hall among many other college students that have come to use through ongoing internship programs with South Texas College and UTRGV. MHC is fortunate to have their services, dedication and constant enthusiasm which help meet the goals of the McAllen Heritage Center.

In commemoration of the museum’s 10 year anniversary, MHC will host the McAllen Chamber Good Day Luncheon which will held on Thursday, June 7th, 2018 at the Embassy Suites Convention Center and will also host a mixer at the museum during the fall. We are proud to have reached this milestone and share our story in celebration with our community and many supporters.

The future of MHC is filled with many new possibilities and opportunities which will result in continued service for our community in honor of our city history and historic preservation. For more information, please call the museum at (956) 6871904, visit our website: www.mcallenheritagecenter.com or on facebook.

The museum is open to the public free of charge although door donations are gratefully accepted.

MCALLEN HERITAGE CENTER - LEADERSHIP 2018 Board of Directors: • Dr. Nedra S. Kinerk, President • Elva M. Cerda, Treasurer • MHC Managing Director • John M. Kreidler, 1st VP • Spurgeon “Spud” Brown Director - MHC historian / tour guide

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• • • • •

Martha V. Hinojosa, Secretary Dr. Cayetano Barrera Michael Hovar Olga Gabriel Rodrigo “Rudy” Elizondo

Former Board members: • Theresa Allen, • Marilyn De Julio, • Gracie Silva • Carmen De Leon • Danny Boultinghouse • Rick De Julio • Helen Snider

OPERATING HOURS: Wed - Fri 1PM to 5PM Saturday 11AM to 4PM

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SYLVAN LEARNING ACADEMIC & STEM CAMPS ROBOTICS

GRADE

Robotics 101 & 102

1st - 4th

Bot Lab

2nd - 6th

Space Challenge

4th - 8th

Game Design 101 & 102

2nd - 5th

Game Design 201 & 202

5th - 8th

Python Coding

6th - 8th

CODING

ENGINEERING Machine Makers 101& 102 1st - 3rd Machine Lab 201 & 202

4th - 6th

Super Structures 301

3rd - 6th

ACT/SAT PREP ACT/SAT Prep

8th - 12th

In preparation for: ACT - June 9th & July 14th SAT - June 2nd & Aug 25th

MATH Math Edge

1st - 5th

Algebra Edge

6th - 12th

Read Ahead

PreK4 - K

READING

LANGUAGE Intro to Spanish 1& 2

5th - 8th

Intro to French 1 & 2

5th - 8th

Handwriting

K - 4th

Writing

4th - 8th

WRITING

1.800.EDUCATE www.SylvanLearning.com

C AM P A T S Y LV A N Looking for ways to give your child an EDGE for the future? Turn to Sylvan for innovative STEM education and Academic Summer programs!

Studies show that giving kids fun, hands-on experiences while they're young can make an impact that will last a lifetime. Watch as our programs challenge and inspire your child to master essential skills needed for the future.

All our Sylvan programs are educational, fun, affordable and available Valley-wide! Don't let your child suffer from summer learning loss.

Register your child today and make them a Sylvan Camper!

REGISTER YOUR CHILD TODAY FOR JUNE, JULY & AUGUST SUMMER CAMPS!

A NIGHT AT THE RACES

C.A.M.P. University hosted its 8th annual “A Night at the Races” gala. The event was held at the

C.A.M.P. UNIVERSITY 8TH ANNUAL GALA

McAllen Convention Center. The evening featured

McAllen Photography by Lionel Castillo

hats or fascinators appropriate for the Kentucky

the special needs young adults of C.A.M.P. University. The guests were encouraged to wear Derby. Ladies were included in a hat contest,and there was a men’s category for the Most Dapper Hat. Guests were welcomed with lively music, signature drinks, then greeted by some of the CAMPers.

Silent and live auctions kept the

evening exciting, culminating with a raffle for a Rolex watch sponsored by Deutsch & Deutsch. All proceeds went to further their mission of helping the special needs adults in our community.

DANNY VELA AND DANNY GURWITZ

BEN SMITH, LEANNE SMITH, RONNIE TAVAREZ, AND EVA TAVAREZ

ALBERTO, ENRIQUE, AND EDUARDO VACA

PAOLA AND FRANK CASTILLO

JER AND GLEN JOHNSON

BARBARA LUTHER AND DEBBIE SAKULENZKI

JUDITH, SARA, AND SAM SALDIVAR

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WHAT’S HAPPENING AT

CONSTRUCTION ON NEW BUILDING The construction of the Bank’s new corporate headquarters is underway.

The building will be six-stories high, and approximately 9.5 acres. The new corporate headquarters is scheduled to open at the end of 2019.

C.A.M.P. UNIVERSITY Rio Bank was a major sponsor and had over 25 staff members participate at C.A.M.P. University’s annual “Night at the Races”. C.A.M.P. University provides opportunities for special needs young adults to continue developing life & social skills after high school.

TBA AWARD Every year, the Texas Bankers Foundation, the philanthropic arm of the Texas Bankers Association, honors the community service and financial education initiatives of Texas Banks.

This year, Rio Bank was awarded the Cornerstone Award for helping at C.A.M.P. University’s “Night at the Races” event. riobk.com 956.631.7890

JOYCE DEAN RETIREMENT CELEBRATION

MCALLEN EDC HOSTED A FAREWELL PARTY

On May 3, McAllen Economic Development Corporation bid farewell to one of its most distinct and influential voices: Joyce Sutton Dean. For 40 years, Joyce served as a pillar of our economic development community.

She began as a leader with the McAllen Foreign

McAllen Photography by Anai Noyola

Trade Zone before helping to establish McAllen EDC when it was founded in 1987. As she retires from her role as Executive Vice President, Joyce leaves behind a proud legacy that has helped define McAllen as a hub of industrial development in Texas and across the United States.

JOYCE DEAN

CARLOS RUIZ, CHRISTINA GARCIA, AND JORGE CISNEROS

JESSE SEPULVEDA, JAMIE SEPULVEDA, LAURA WARREN, AND RICK ANDERSON

ANGELIA MANCIAS, JANIE CAVAZOS, AND JOSANNA GUERRERO

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ROY RODRIGUEZ, MICHELLE RIVERA, AND MAYOR JIM DARLING

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AZTECTOPIA BOOK PRESENTATION McAllen Photography by Anai Noyola

The Consulate of Mexico cordially invited the community to the presentation of the illustrated book “Aztectopia” by the Mexican author Pedro Larez, who has taken a turn in his career as an illustrator. Now, he writes in an entertaining format stories about the Mexican or Aztec gods. The book is primarily directed for people of all ages and is already a success in social media with more than 120,000 followers, positioning Larez as one of the most recognized Mexican graphic artists of the time.

PEDRO LAREZ, AND GABRIELA HERNANDEZ

ROSSY LIMA, BLANCA REYES, AND JESÚS PÉREZ

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18TH ANNUAL PRESIDENTS’ CUP GOLF TOURNAMENT

TO BENEFIT THE EDUCATION INITIATIVE PROGRAM McAllen Photography by Anai Noyola

The McAllen Chamber of Commerce hosted their 18th Annual Presidents’ Cup Golf Tournament, sponsored

by Boggus Ford Lincoln McAllen. The tournament was at Palm View Golf Course and was an 18-hole, three player team Modified Elimination Florida Scramble on the starting hole, with a starting field limited to forty-four teams who then competed for the #1 spot.

MIKE CARATACHEA, ADRIAN ARAMBULA, AND JORGE GARCIA

RENE HERNANDEZ, PHILIP KUCIA, AND RAMIRO NIÑO

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A better picture of health, throughout your life.

Nationally Recognized Care. Close to Home.

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

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

The Watson Health 100 Top Hospitals® annual study program has named Rio Grande Regional Hospital as one of the highest-performing hospitals in the nation. Visit 100tophospitals.com for more information on this program.

The Women’s Imaging Center of Rio Grande Regional Hospital | 101 East Ridge Road, Suite D, McAllen, TX 78503 100 Top Hospitals® is a registered trademark of IBM Watson Health™

MISSION MAYOR’S PRAYER LUNCHEON 2018 WITH REVEREND RAFAEL CRUZ Mission Photography by Anai Noyola

The Annual Mission Mayor’s Prayer Luncheon, hosted by the City of Mission and the Greater Mission Chamber of Commerce, was an event that brought the community together at the Mission Event Center to pray for the city, state, nation and the world. Reverend Rafael Cruz served as the keynote speaker for this event.

TRENTON INFANTE, JOSE OCHOA, MAYOR NORBERTO SALINAS, MARIA REYNA, AND KAITLYN ESPERICUETA

JUAN PABLO TERRAZAS, THOMAS TIJERINA, AND RAFAEL CRUZ

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MAYOR NORBERTO SALINAS

LUIS CANALES, LINDA CASTAÑEDA, J.D VILLARREAL, AND AL BELTRÁN

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BUENAS TARDES LUNCHEON

WITH VINCE YOUNG, FORMER NFL QUARTERBACK AND UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS ALUM Mission Photography by Lionel Castillo McAllen Photography by Anai Noyola

The Greater Mission Chamber of Commerce presented the Buenas Tardes Luncheon with Vince Young, a record breaker, award winner, Madden NFL cover-man, restaurateur and businessman, former NFL quarterback and University of Texas alum! The Luncheon was held at the Mission Event Center, with a VIP meet and greet followed by the luncheon, where Young spoke about his life and his accomplishments and gave motivation for difficult situations in everyone’s life. After the luncheon, Young took pictures and gave autographs to the guests and fans.

THE MISSION POLICE DEPARTMENT WITH TEXAS LONGHORN’S VINCE YOUNG

AGUSTIN LOZANO JR, ROBERT ROSELL, SALLY FRAUSTRO GUERRA, VINCE YOUNG, ELVA JACKSON GARZA, AND JOHNNY RODRIGUEZ

CHUCK GOMEZ, DERRICK GOMEZ, EDDIE CANTU, AND CHRISTIAN CANTU

LORADEL MARIANO, CINDY PACHECO AND LETISIA SEPULVEDA

FRANK FORMAN, DAVID NAVARRO, JOE VASQUEZ, TANNYA LOPEZ, AMADOR LOPEZ AND BOBBY URBINA

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TONY FORINA AND ROBERT ROSELL

MAYOR RICHARD MOLINA, MAYOR NORBERTO SALINAS, AND SENATOR CHUY HINOJOSA

RICO GARCIA, STATE REP. OSCAR LONGORIA, AND LENNY GARZA

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$500,000+

Raised for Scholarships

Thank you, sponsors and supporters.

This year’s 12th Annual Dinner & Auction highlighted the past, present, and future progress and impact of IDEA Public Schools through the stories of current students, alumni, supporters and leaders.

In addition to connecting over dinner, guests bid on original works of art created by IDEA students and enjoyed personal videos from IDEA students who shared their gratitude for the contributions and support of IDEA’s donors. Because of you, it was our most successful event ever. We raised more than half a million dollars in scholarships, including an anonymous donation for $50,000.

WHATEVER IT TAKES

CLOSING THE ACHIEVEMENT GAP

David Robinson Kencon Constructors/Managers, LLP. Regions Insurance/Bank

National Institute for Direct Instruction

$25,000

$15,000

NO EXCUSES $10,000

TADCO Roofing RGV ProDirect Sylvan Learning Center Inter National Bank

Vantage Bank Hertz Furniture Gerlach Construction, Inc. Lott Brothers Construction Co.

D. Wilson Construction GMS Architechs PMSI

100% EVERY DAY $5,000

Gulf Coast Paper Company Davenport Group Buck Financial Advisors, LLC The Gaston Company Serafy Foundation Construction Rent-A-Fence Baird Foundation, Inc.

Robert W. Baird and Co. Inc. L&F Distributors ERO Architechs Cardenas Development 1845 Capital of Raymond James Charles & Carolyn Bell Dr. Joey & Xenia Garza

Office Depot Core Business Solutions HKS Earl & Associates Schulman, Lopez, Hoffer & Adelstein LLP Hunton Andrews Kurth LLP

SWEATING THE SMALL STUFF $2,500

Ethos Engineering Wyatt Truscheit Mutual of Omaha Bank Doug and Linda Carnine Jamey Roberts Sara Garza Lakeshore Learning Payne Auto Group RGV Vipers BBVA BrandMuscle

Melden & Hunt Inc. Jill Dominguez/Lisa Garza Doctors Hospital at Renaissance Valley Land Title Co. Joe & Zuleida Habbouche Charlie Clark Nissan City Of McAllen Green, Rubiano & Associates, Inc. Southern Landscapes Rgvision Publications McGraw Hill Education

Rios Boots of Mercedes Sam Garcia Architect, LLC City Of Weslaco Texas Regional Bank Copy Graphics Hanson Professional Services Inc. Noble Texas Builders Dolores Gonzalez RIO GAMA Logicorp Enterprises, LLC Raleigh Davis

Atlas, Hall & Rodriguez, LLP Marroquin Law Firm South Texas Health System UTRGV Foundation InSite EFS Teach For America Terracon Consulting Engineers Magic Valley Electric Cooperative PrintGlobe Sam Goessling Misty Martin Al & Judy Lopez

MODERNIZING A FAMILY LEGACY

Distinctive Western Wear There is a unique and new look for clothing and accessories at Lionel’s Western Wear & Boutique located in downtown Weslaco, Texas. It is the Rio Grande Valley’s most distinctive western wear store for men, women, and children. It also includes a beautiful ladies boutique that offers a versatility of clothing that can be mixed and matched for different events. This beautiful gem of a store has become a staple in South Texas for 60 years.

The family history that created the business six decades ago is a classic American immigrant story. Leonel Oliveira, Sr. came to the United States from northern Mexico in the early 1900’s. His father-in-law was an Ellis Island immigrant from northern Spain. Leonel and Isabelle were high school sweethearts in Benavides, Texas and married in 1942 before he went to serve in World War II. When he returned from the war, they settled in the Rio Grande Valley to begin their new life.

Leonel started as a manager in a Harlingen clothing store owned by his brother-in-law. In 1959, he set off on his own to Weslaco, Texas, where he fulfilled his destiny and opened the doors to Lionel’s Western Wear.

He continued to lead the helm until he retired in 1984.

Today, his daughter, Sandy Oliveira Peña, who owns and runs the store, continues her father’s legacy from family roots and applies new trends and traditions from her own legacy. Sandy has transformed Lionel’s to include not only the western wear boots and hats but also a stunning boutique of women’s clothing, sterling silver, fashion jewelry, shoes, and purses. You could say it is a blend of denim and diamonds. Once you experience Lionel’s Western Wear & Boutique’s unique

Sandy Oliveira Peña | Owner brand of customer service and spectacular clothing, you will inevitably become a fan. Shopping at Lionel’s is a bona fide personal experience because of the quality of customer service they provide.

Their employees have worked at Lionel’s for many years and take pride in their “Good ole-fashion customer service,” as Sandy Peña would say. Their experienced staff will give you fashion advice and help you put outfits together. If needed, they will gladly special order exactly what you’re looking for, and they offer alterations to provide you with a one-stop, wonderful shopping experience. In today’s stressful, busy, tech world, this store stands apart for their assistance to their customer’s needs and wants. Make sure and check them out on Facebook and Instagram. Or better yet, next time you’re on the expressway, take the Exit to downtown Weslaco. You will be glad you did.

Leonel Oliveira Sr • 1945

332 S Texas Blvd, Weslaco (956) 968-2552

Miriam Contreras Vests are always a favorite, a striking way to dress up a pair of jeans or a skirt. Worn with a simple tee shirt, vests become work and everyday casual friendly. If worn with a skirt or dress, vests can go to dinner or go dancing.

MUST HAVE

LIONEL’S WESTERN WEAR & BOUTIQUE

Linda Mancillas Traditional Mexican Otomi motifs of fanciful animals and flowers embellish a traditional peasant top that can be worn on or off the shoulder. This graceful top can take you from the most relaxed of times to formal affairs.

Cecilia “Sissy” Vaughan Saltillo stripes and embroidered flowers decorate the this lovely, soft poncho. This poncho can be worn as a swimsuit coverup, or a sheer top with shorts or jeans, paired with a long skirt or tailored pants for a dinner out or special occasion.

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Lionel Castillo Lionel’s Western shirt is by Scully and features diamond shaped pearl snap buttons and embellished yokes. Check out that large longhorn belt buckle!

Sonia Roeder This 100% natural cotton kaftan is a perfect choice for the summer. It’s cool and comfortable and extremely versatile. Wear it as a bathing suit cover up for poolside parties or take it out to special occasions.

Jessica Benitez You’re ready for a tropical getaway in our sexy, off-the-shoulder floral print maxi dress. It has an effortless easy fit, with a flirty layered ruffled neckline. The look is completed with a long, suede tassel necklace and matching earrings

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A SOCIALIFE “MEETING OF THE MINDS”

1st SLRGV ADVISORY BOARD MEETING McAllen Photography by Lionel Castillo

This event was held at the McAllen Country Club where we had our first SOCIALIFE RGV (SLRGV) Advisory Board meeting. The meeting was held to brainstorm ideas for the magazine to continue to bring our readers exciting and informative material.

Representing the City of Pharr was City Manager Juan Garza; City of McAllen, Rebecca Olaguibel; Edinburg ISD, Romeo Cantu; McAllen ISD, Norma Zamora-Guerra; UTRGV, Victoria Villela and Stephanie Ortega; and from Rio Grande Regional Hospital, Adriana Morales.

We also included representatives from a Chamber of Commerce, Blanca Cardenas from McAllen; Shan Rankin, Museum of South TX History; and from the retail industry, Sandra Peña Oliveira of Lionel’s Western Wear & Boutique. From a nonprofit organization was Betty Ramirez Lara from Rotary District 5930. And of course, the fabulous SLRGV Team was there to facilitate.

SOCIALIFE 30

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“What do I want for my child?”

A young mom posed the question one day.

“I want a life filled with exciting opportunities so that he is perpetually discovering new skills and new passions that are uniquely his, enriching activities that help him fall in love with the beauty of music and the arts, and an environment where he can make friends and experience life lessons that will guide him to become a good and thoughtful leader – a young man of character.”

“Can you give me that?” she asked.

Yes.

“McAllen ISD is a District of Choice. We offer our students a vast array of opportunities and we

That is precisely the environment McAllen ISD offers. Championing each child’s individual

greatness is about working hard to find each child’s strengths, guiding him or her to grow intellectually and emotionally, and putting into place wonderful activities that introduce new skills that challenge him or her to achieve at an ever-higher level. At the same time, the vast number of student-based organizations and activities we offer give our students wonderful ways in which they can learn to lead, to collaborate, and to discover so many enriching life lessons.

pride ourselves in that. Whether students want to earn a license or certificate or Associates, Bachelors, Masters, enter the military, or start a business. Whatever their dream is, we offer choice to help them leverage and accomplish that dream. I’m also proud to say that we are a District of Champions. We’re champions on the field, on the court, on the track, and in every area of fine arts. But more than that, our students are champions in the classroom. We’re champions for our community and we’re champions for each

“State Post-Secondary Readiness Distinction” “Nationally Ranked High Schools” “International School of Distinction” “National Blue Ribbon HS” “National AVID Demonstration Site” “National Best Communities for Music Education” “America’s Healthiest Schools”

other. That’s what makes our district special.”

J.A. Gonzalez, Ed.D. SUPERINTENDENT

Championing Each Child’s Individual Greatness The students featured on the cover offer incredible examples of the many paths we offer that lead to student success… exactly what makes McAllen ISD the District of Choice.

Written by Norma Zamora-Guerra and Mark May Photography by Cliff Ranson

Cristobal Ortiz

Shainah Vidal

Victor Menchaca

Kelechi Nwachuku

Ramiro Cantu

Ashley Alvarado

Hannah Bagstad

Cristobal Ortiz is on the State Championship Chess Team at Achieve Early College High School, our National Blue Ribbon HS.

Shainah Vidal’s intense coursework at our International Baccalaureate Program (highest success rate in the world) will catapult her study of medicine, while music in Rowe HS’s Mariachi Program enriches her life.

Victor Menchaca is on the State UIL Robotics Championship Team at McAllen High School and fully on his way to study mechanical engineering.

Kelechi Nwachuku is on the State Football All Academic 2nd Team and plans to play college football at UT San Antonio, making him one of numerous McAllen ISD scholar athletes who continue their athletic careers beyond high school.

Ramiro Cantu – winner of a National Filmmaker Award and finalist in an International Competition – found that accelerating his coursework at Options High School made him both responsible and independent.

Ashley Alvarado, a two-time All-State Choir student who plans to study political science at Texas A&M and someday run for the State Senate, credits her study of music for building her selfconfidence.

Hannah Bagstad does clinical rotations with pharmacists at a hospital through our highly touted Career Technology Education (CTE) courses, while also learning teambuilding and leadership skills through programs like drill teams at our comprehensive high schools.

Brianna Amaya

Adrian Bernal

Suzannah Swanson Christopher Neal

Aaron Nixon

Jonathan Nguyen

Emily Gurwitz

Brianna Amaya won the Best Leading Actress - a Valley-wide PALM award - for her role in the school musical. Unlike most Districts, McAllen ISD offers all State Endorsements (similar to College Degree Plan), including in Arts and Humanities.

Adrian Bernal has made the playoffs in three sports – basketball, football, and baseball. He plans to become a physical therapist or coach, pointing to extracurricular activities for teaching life lessons about character.

Suzannah Swanson, a freshman, has achieved success, winning two state medals in wheelchair racing and a first-place award in Future Farmers of America.

Aaron Nixon is a standout in baseball (ranked #14 in nation) and football, while also claiming his spot on the National Honor Society, Yearbook and Tech Theatre teams – an enriching combination that exemplifies the game of life.

Jonathan Nguyen chose to enroll in Achieve Early College High to earn college hours and save his family tuition costs. He earned 75 college hours, an Associates Degree in Engineering from STC and he’s poised to graduate as Salutatorian.

Emily Gurwitz’s soccer team advanced to the State semifinals. IB students participate in extracurricular activities at their home schools. Emily will spend her summer at a chemistry-based research program at UT Austin and a HS Aerospace Scholars Program at NASA.

Christopher Neal is a great example of a Scholar Athlete, earning an Associates Degree in Criminal Justice while also playing football and earning his position in the National Honor Society.

The Wild Plains

by Tom Fort, senior historian at the Museum of South Texas History

Evening winds rustle the lush grasslands that ripple like waves on a vast, dry sea. Birds and insects begin their nightly chirps and buzzes. Around water holes, herds gather to drink. Among them are long-horned bison; small horses; deer; camels; mastodons; mammoths. And where grazing and foraging animals are drawn, there come predators, such as wolves, lions, and saber-tooth cats.

A scene from ancient Africa? No, this was South Texas some 20,000 years ago, in the late Pleistocene era. As ice sheets grew across the northern latitudes, cooler winds and a wetter climate turned this enormous region into grassy plains, studded with forests of scrub oak and other trees. With plenty of forage and water, animal life flourished, as revealed by fossil evidence. Here were giant bison with horns spreading six feet or more. Horses also were here; standing some three feet high they were small by today’s standards, but equines nonetheless. Camels, too, roamed South Texas; known formally as Camelops, they were about the size of modern Bactrian camels, though some were larger.

Other South Texas denizens looked strange indeed. There were armadillo-like pampatheres six feet long, and the even larger Glyptodont, wearing a massive armored carapace to hold off predators. If those weren’t big enough, we had giant sloths, some the size of a bull, and others as big as elephants. All of these plant-eaters were migrants from South America that crossed the Rio Grande. Biggest of all were the mastodons and, even bigger cousins, the mammoths. Though unrelated to each other, both resembled elephants, with trunks and tusks.

A full-grown Columbian mammoth stood some twelve feet tall; its tusks extended eight feet or more. Only a desperate or foolhardy predator would attack such an animal.

Stalking the grazing herds was a formidable array of teeth and claws, including the dire wolf, larger than modern wolves and with the most powerful bite of them all; the giant short-face bear, which could be twice the size of today’s brown bear; the American lion, bigger than an African lion; and the saber-tooth cat with its nine-inch incisors.

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Along with most of the grazing animals, these ancient creatures today exist only as fossils – and, maybe, as nightmares. The widespread extinctions at the end of the Pleistocene, some 10,000 to 12,000 years ago saw most of the hunters and hunted disappear.

Today’s South Texas is home to such hardy survivors as bats, squirrels, and white-tail deer, the largest Pleistocene descendant.

Whether tending cattle on your ranch, aiming a camera at a bird, or waiting for a buck at dusk, you may be relieved to know that the pair of yellow eyes watching from the brush isn’t a saber-tooth or dire wolf, but a more familiar Pleistocene companion – the coyote.

About Museum of South Texas History Prehistoric plants and animal fossils, native people and European colonization exhibits, and a steamboat replica are but a few of the fascinating displays to see at the Museum of South Texas History.

The Museum of South Texas History is accredited by the American Alliance of Museums. It is located in downtown Edinburg at 200 North Closner Boulevard on the Hidalgo County Courthouse square.

Hours of operation: Sunday 1PM – 5PM Tue – Sat 10AM – 5PM For more information about MOSTHistory, including becoming a FRIEND, visit MOSTHistory.org, like us on Facebook, follow on Twitter or find us on Google+

200 N Closner Blvd, Edinburg (956) 383-6911

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613 E. Trenton Rd., Edinburg, Texas 78539 Located at The Shoppes at Rio Grande Valley

Everything at Bob’s is Bigger.

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Once you experience Bob’s special brand of service and food, it won’t be long until you’re a regular. Here the only thing you need to worry about is what cut of prime steak you’ll order.

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For Reservations, Private Dining or Special Events Call (956) 380-2627

More than 3,100 prospective graduates moved their tassels from right to left to signify the completion of their degrees, as UTRGV celebrated four Spring 2018 commencement ceremonies May 11-12.

G R A D U A T I O N D A Y, S P R I N G 2 0 1 8

By UTRGV News and Internal Communications

Held on the Brownsville Campus on Friday evening and at the McAllen Convention Center all day Saturday, friends and family packed the four ceremonies as the Vaqueros walked the stage to cheers and applause.

Dr. Patricia Alvarez McHatton, executive vice president for Academic Affairs, Student Success, and P-16 Integration, who led the ceremonies, enthusiastically congratulated the Vaqueros on their special day.

“UTRGV Class of 2018, congratulations, and ‘Forever Orange,’” she said proudly, holding up her fingers in the university’s spirited “V” formation.

“Remember, your contributions will build the future, bring innovation, serve our communities, transform the Rio Grande Valley, the state of Texas, the country and, yes, you will Inspire the World,” she said.

Since UTRGV opened in 2015, the university has awarded more than 12,800 degrees.

Dr. John Krouse, executive vice president for Health Affairs and Dean of the School of Medicine, who spoke at two of the three Saturday ceremonies, shared some valuable advice with the prospective graduates.

“In all you do, maintain your humanity and humility,” Krouse said. “It’s a moral imperative to be human, to demonstrate humanity in each and everything you do.”

“Use everything that you have learned at UTRGV to make your community and nation a better world for humankind,” he said.

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37

CINCO DE MAYO DINNER TONIGHT

Celebrating Cinco de Mayo, the Healthy Cooking School hosted their event at the Old Church Winery, presenting tasty recipes, live food demos and food tastings with the night’s special guest chef, Mayor Jim Darling.

McAllen Photography by Anai Noyola

SENATOR JUAN CHUY HINOJOSA AND AMANDA LETICIA

ANDREA VALDEZ AND MAYOR JIM DARLING

MCALLEN MAYOR JIM DARLING AND SENATOR JUAN CHUY HINOJOSA

SOCIALIFE 38

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NON-PROFIT SPOT LIGHT BETTY RAMIREZ-LARA President/Owner of Utilities Services Experts USA Photography by Lionel Castillo

Betty Ramirez-Lara is the President/Owner of Utilities Services Experts USA, an Energy Brokerage Firm for consumer use. Betty raised 2 boys as a single mother.

Year 2001, a banker friend said, “Let’s Go to Lunch” in her hometown of Weslaco, Texas. Betty instantly saw the value of becoming a member of the World’s biggest humanitarian service organization, Rotary International. Rotary International started in Chicago, Illinois since February 23, 1905. An attorney by the name of Paul Harris started the organization along with 3 of his closest friends and would rotate the meetings at their place of business. Betty is a first generation U.S. citizen, first generation True Texan and first generation Rotarian. Rotary International is in over 200 countries worldwide and there are only 536 District Governors serving in that position every year. There are 1.2 million Rotarians all over the world.

Betty’s term as Rotary District Governor started on July 1, 2017. Rotary District 5930 is composed of 30,000 square miles ranges from Victoria, Texas down the coast from Port Lavaca to Corpus Christi with towns of Goliad cutting across through Three Rivers, over to Laredo and down to the Rio Grande Valley. The District has 52 Rotary Clubs with about 2000 members. Within 60 days of her term in office, Hurricane Harvey was a direct hit in the Coastal Bend in the communities of Rockport, Ingleside, Aransas Pass, Port Aransas, Portland and Port Lavaca. The Rotary Clubs in these communities had to shut down and relocate their weekly meetings temporarily. Her primary concern was the welfare and making sure the families in these communities were taken care of.

SOCIALIFE 40

For the next 48 hours, her ultimate goal was to make contact with the Club’s Leadership Team and members to make sure they were not in harm’s way. As Harvey was pounding the Coastal Bend communities, phone calls from Rotary International, Rotary Zone Officers, other District Leaders were calling Betty to offer assistance and help with making some tough decisions that would directly affect Rotary District 5930. A Disaster Plan was designed and implemented within the 48 hours to help with relief efforts for the communities that were impacted. Once the Disaster Plan was approved by the Legal department at Rotary International, it was published, endorsed and promoted on the Rotary International and Rotary District 5930 website and social media outlets. The Disaster Plan was very specific in how Rotary Clubs had access to the Hurricane Harvey Relief FUND. Rotary Clubs had to make an assessment of the needs of their communities.

The District’s priorities were children, education/ training and the elderly.

supply the enrollees with the proper tools needed after graduation. Basketball teams and Little league teams in Rockport, Ingleside, Aransas Pass and Port Aransas were able to have their spring season with uniforms and equipment. Ingleside High School was able to hold their Prom for their graduating seniors. Families that fled were discovered as far as Alice, Edinburg, McAllen, Mission and Rotary Clubs in these towns assisted with a needs assessment to purchase the necessary items for the family members. Partnerships were also formed with Habitat for Humanity by providing a Lending Tools Library where you check out the tools you need instead of purchasing tools for a one time use. These tools would also be needed for Clean Up crews volunteering for the affected areas. Disaster Aid USA was also another partnership formed for proper training in case of another disaster in the immediate area. The City of Port Lavaca lost all its food due to the floods at their Food Bank and had to replace the food needed to assist their community.

Betty is a first generation U.S. citizen, first generation True Texan and first generation Rotarian.

Rotarians are not emergency responders but they are humanity responders. They are leaders in their communities that join together, exchange ideas and take action. They are people of action. Rotarians take action in their local communities as well as global communities. Their 6 Areas of Focus are concentrated in education/literacy, disease prevention, mother and child care, economic/community development, clean water and sanitation, peace/ war-conflict resolution.

Rotarians rise to the call and Take Action.

Rotarians MAKE A DIFFERENCE!

As of May 1st this year, after 8 months, over $430,000 were raised to help families get some type of relief after Hurricane Harvey. Schools in Rockport and Victoria were able to replace and replenish library books damaged from the hurricane. Partnerships with Del Mar College were formed to offer retraining and certification for bus drivers, welders, plumbers, electricians and

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Proudly Representing the 15th District of Texas

CONGRESSMAN GONZALEZ IS PROUD TO REPRESENT YOU. HAVE AN ISSUE WITH ANY OF THE FOLLOWING? U.S. Department of Agriculture

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs

U.S. Department of Homeland Security

U.S. Postal Service

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services

Social Security Administration

Residents of the 15th District of Texas can contact us for assistance in dealing with federal agencies.

CALL OUR OFFICE AT 888-217-0261IF YOU HAVE AN ISSUE WITH A FEDERAL AGENCY OR DEPARTMENT. VISIT OUR WEBSITE AND LEARN MORE ABOUT

THE PROGRESS WE ARE MAKING: WWW.GONZALEZ.HOUSE.GOV Paid for the official funds authorized by the U.S. House of Representatives

 Â? Â

SPRING FORWARD BRUNCH & MINI STYLE SHOW

The Ladies’ Lunch Club from the Greater McAllen Association of Realtors hosted their spring event at Renee’s of Sharyland with an extraordinary luncheon and style show with the season’s newest trends.

Mission Photography by Anai Noyola

YVETTE HINOJOSA

MARY BARRIENTOS, TATIANA MELLO, AND TOÑA SALINAS

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ELLA OCHOA

JANIE MARQUEZ, JENNY AVELLANEDA, AND ERICA MUNAL

CLAUDIA ELIZA

ELLA OCHOA,YVETTE HINOJOSA, CLAUDIA ELIZA, AND JOANNA GALINDO

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Chef

Juan Ramón Aguilar “I grew up in in my grandmothers restaurant and parent’s bakery. You could say, I’ve always been in the kitchen.” Juan Ramon Aguilar has cooked in small kitchens and in world renown kitchens alike. As an executive chef at Morimoto, an exclusive Japanese restaurant in Mexico City, Chef Juan Ramon’s technique benefited from such a structured kitchen environment. “Here I learned the beauty of disciplined traditional cuisine. In Mexico, there are some great chefs. The cooking scene in Mexico has taken huge leaps forward. And these chefs have gone to important restaurants around the world to move things forward. We are very spontaneous in the kitchen and are constantly creating new recipes. We can create a recipe and people like it, but then we change it again and we’ll create something else to love. But in traditional Japanese cooking, there is a specific way to do things.

For example, a simple three-ingredient Dashi soup, you can’t just boil the water and add the ingredients. (Laughing) I did that the first time. Then I learned to watch for the first wisp of steam that rises from the water before boiling. Also, your timing and

Photography by Christian Möller

The simple kitchen law is, if you combine high-quality ingredients and treat it right, you’ll have great food.

It’s that simple.

ingredient amounts have to be just right. There’s a reason for the respect for the recipe. It just works. I’ve become a very disciplined chef in the way I maintain the kitchens at Kumori. But I haven’t lost my passion. I love cooking and I love eating.”

Chef Aguilar’s passion for food is evident in the ingredients he chooses. Kumori’s fish is flown in 3-4 times a week. The wild caught tuna comes in from Hawaii, and the rice is high quality.

Chef Juan Ramon maintains that“The simple kitchen law is, if you combine high-quality ingredients and treat it right, you’ll have great food. It’s that simple.”

Chef Aguilar has gotten to know several clients at Kumori and believes the loyal patrons find their favorites and stick to them. He hopes they will also explore the incredible fresh sashimi plates or the new poke bowls. There are a lot of delicious fresh options at Kumori.

Sashimi Combo

Spicy Tuna Poke

Maui Wowie Roll

www.kumorisushi.com WWW.SOCIALIFERGV.COM

SOCIALIFE 45

SPONSORED BY

WHY I LOVE THE VALLEY “I love the Valley for its friendly people, for being excellent hosts; it is a wonderful region that mixes Mexican culture with American culture every day. It is a beautiful place to live and for children to grow up safe and sound.”

Eduardo Bernal Mexican Consul in McAllen

“I love living in the RGV because it’s a community that is rapidly growing, while at the same time- staying true to its strong sense of community and family values. These are exciting times to live and work here with many opportunities for economic advancement and a quality of life that keeps getting better each day. The Valley is a great place to call home and raise a family in a safe and friendly environment, rich in culture that lives by a can-do attitude.”

Sergio Contreras President/CEO RGV Partnership “I love the Rio Grande Valley because of it’s unique frontier spirit, its people and it’s traditions.”

Kirk Clark Owner/Dealer for Clark Knapp Honda Pharr & Clark Chevrolet McAllen

“The thing I love about The Valley is the people, the culture and you can’t say there is nothing to do in The Valley anymore, there’s always something to do.”

Edward Lopez General Manager Doubletree/ McAllen Chamber of Commerce Chairman of the Board “I love the Valley because I have met the most wonderful people and my best friends in the world. I never want to leave!”

Dr. Kelly Scrivner UTRGV VP for Institutional Advancement “Look at the transformation that has occurred the last 25 years by investing local, state and federal money in outstanding education at all levels as well as expansion of hospitals offering excellent healthcare including a UTRGV Medical School... It will continue to improve the quality of life in the RGV.” “I was born in the Rio Grande Valley, and I believe that there’s not another place in the world like the RGV because of our hard working people.”

Ruben Hinojosa United States Congress, Retired

Beto Salinas City of Mission Mayor

Quips ‘N’ Quotes Loves the Valley and it shows! They offer an exceptional large selection of fine gifts including Vera Bradley, Demdaco, Jim Shore, Hallmark, YETI, Yellowbox shoes, Cross Pens, Melissa & Doug Toys, Precious Moments, Lizzy James Jewelry, DaVinci Beads, Hello Kitty, Swarovski and Godiva.

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BOOTS & BLING

7TH ANNUAL “STOMPIN’ OUT ILLITERACY” Pharr Photography by Anai Noyola

The Rio Grande Valley Literacy Center hosted their annual gala at the Pharr Research & Development Center. The evening’s festivities included awarding this year’s honoree, Betty Ramirez-Lara. This great event also included a silent auction, dinner and a fantastic time on the dance floor. The Rio Grande Valley Literacy Center provides economic opportunities by empowering our community through adult education and literacy.

FRANK SHIVES, NORA LONGORIA, AND ALFRED DENHAM

SOCIALIFE 48

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Unplugged and Back to Nat ure Camps and Workshops require advance in person or online registration www.mcallenparks.net (956) 681-3370 • quintamazatlan.com CAMPS (Register in advance) Nature Discovery Camps Dinosaur Camp - Ages 6-9 Survivor Skills - Ages 10-12 Camp Quinta - Ages 6-9 Wild Art Camp - Ages 6-12

June 12-15 July 10-13 July 17-20 July 31-August 3

Nature-Robotics Camp

Robotics Camp - Ages 10-14 June 19-22 Intro Robotics - Ages 7-9 June 26-29

YOUTH PHOTOGRAPHY (Register in advance) Youth Nature Photo Workshops Saturdays Ages 8-13, 10 am to 12 noon Ages 14-18, 2 pm to 4 pm Dates: June 9, 23, 30 July 14, 28

Youth Nature Photo Fridays All Ages 10 am to 12 noon Learn basics and take pictures!

VLF Youth Nature Photo Contest

Enter the free contest and win prizes!

Contest Online Deadline: July 31st Awards Ceremony at QM: August 23rd 7 pm www.valleylandfund.com

THROUGHOUT THE SUMMER Nature Night Explorers Tuesdays, 8:30 pm to 10:00 pm

Healing in Nature Yoga Thursdays, 9 am to 10 am

Summer Bird Stroll

Saturdays, 8:30 am to 10:00 am

Nature Tots (Ages 1-3)

Saturdays, 9:30 am to 10:30 am Special hour of “nature play”.

Discovery Days

Saturdays, 11 am to 12 noon

Volunteer Days

Fridays & Saturdays, 8:30 am to 12 noon

LOW ROPES CHALLENGE COURSE (Customize day and time with advance reservation required)

The trained course facilitators offer team building, communication problem-solving skills & leadership development for schools, business, social and family groups.

THURSDAY NIGHTS AT THE PARK Sponsored by Freels Orthodontics Family Evening Explorations (Bring the family, 7 pm to 8 pm) June 7 June 14 June 21 June 28 July 5 July 12 July 19 July 26 August 2 August 9 August 16 August 23

LIVE Reptile Adventures Magic Dork Wild- Wild West -Dress Up LIVE Sky King Falconry Dinosaur George LIVE Animal Contacto Super Heroes-Dress up Movie in Park-A Bugs Life!

Bubble Concert in the Park Safari Greg Spiderman Dave-Dress up Youth Photo Contest Awards

HOBBIES IN NATURE Teens-Adults-Seniors (Saturdays, 2-4 pm) June 2 July 7 August 4

Pollinator Power Summer Sprouts Reptile Rendezvous

70’S DISCO

2018 LAW DAY GALA McAllen Photography by Lionel Castillo

The Hidalgo County Bar Foundation (HCBF) celebrated their annual gala at the DoubleTree Hotel with a 70’s disco theme. HCBF is the charitable and public service arm of the Hidalgo County Bar Association. It is the conduit by which the members support our community through various educational and public service programs. This great night of dancing and laughter culminated with a moment of honor--this year the Lifetime Achievement Award recipient was Mr. Bill Ellis of Ellis, Koeneke & Ramirez Attorneys at Law.

ROBERT MARTINEZ, VERONICA MARTINEZ, SEAN ROMERO, AND ALLYSSA ROMERO

ADRIANA PEÑA AND RUBEN PEÑA

DR JEAN-SCOTT BENDIKS, AZALEA ALEMAN-BENDIKS, LUIS CARDENAS, ADRIANA CARDENAS, IRENE RAMIREZ, JOE ESCOBEDO, AND BOBBY RAMIREZ

ERIC OLGUIN, BILL ELLIS AND ISMAEL ESPINOZA

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JOHN ROSENLUND, PATTIE ROSENLUND, JAN WELSH, AND KYLE WELCH

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READING BETWEEN THE WINES

A FUNDRAISER FOR THE SOUTH TEXAS LITERACY COALITION McAllen Photography by Anai Noyola

ARABELLA BEDRIÑANA, MELIDA OCHOA, AND DR. IDA ACUÑA-GARZA

The fundraiser was a spirited celebration of literacy with a focus on our South Texas heritage.

While enjoying wine, beer and spirit tastings as well as signature pairings of hors d’oeuvres and other beverages, guests learned from local wine expert Dr. Robert Ballinger as he explained how the wines curated. Guests also enjoyed trying their luck at the bucket raffle in the spirit of literacy—and all for a good cause! Featured was “The Magic of Mariachi” by Dr. Steven Schneider!

The event was a mixing and mingling with the “tastemakers” of the RGV, surrounded by live entertainment and an hour of Mariachi.

ROBERT ROSELL AND DR. IDA ACUÑA-HINOJOSA

MARTY HINOJOSA, DR. IDA ACUÑA-HINOJOSA, AND CONGRESS RUBEN HINOJOSA

SOCIALIFE 52

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THE PERFECT MIXER

BUSINESS COMMUNITY MEET & GREET McAllen Photography by Lionel Castillo

The RGV Partnership and SOCIALIFE RGV collaborated to host the community leaders from across the Rio Grande Valley to thank them for their commitment to the community. Community leaders engaged in conversations that are of importance to their business and to the Rio Grande Valley.

Management from Hawthorn Suites By Wyndham McAllen provided the best venue and service to host the Meet and Greet.

REBECCA ARIZMENDI, DEBORAH CORDOVA, SERGIO CONTRERAS, MARIE SANCHEZ, AND SALLY FRAUSTRO GUERRA

SERGIO CONTRERAS, DANNY GURWITZ, RICK ANDERSON, AND KEITH PATRIDGE

ANGELO RAMOS, KARLA MORALES, SANDRA DE LOS SANTOS, MONICA SANCHEZ, AND DULCE MARTINEZ

LUPITA TIJERINA, MYRTA TIJERINA, KARLA MORALES, MARIE SANCHEZ, KARINA LOPEZ AND REBECCA ARIZMENDI

FRANK DAVILA, SAM LOPEZ, DEBORAH CORDOVA, RUBEN LOPEZ, DANNY GURWITZ, AND SERGIO CONTRERAS

RAMIRO GARZA, JULISSA TREVIÑO, AND RENE CAPISTRANO

DANIEL PADILLA, KRYS WEYARD, CESAR SUAREZ AND REBECCA ARIZMENDI

WWW.SOCIALIFERGV.COM

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RGV AGGIE MOMS

5TH ANNUAL SCHOLARSHIP GOLF TOURNAMENT Edinburg Photography by Anai Noyola

SOCIALIFE 54

The RGV Aggie Moms hosted their 5th annual Gig ‘Em Scholarship Golf Tournament at Los Lagos Golf Course. The funds raised will be used for Valley kids who are attending or are planning to attend Texas A&M. The Aggie Mom’s mission is to contribute in every way to the comfort and welfare of the students, and the Valley students are their main concern. Gig ‘Em Aggies!

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SUMMER CAMP! June 4th - 29th

Ages:4-12

Classes: 3:00pm 5:00pm MUAY THAI WRESTLING JIU JITSU BOXING

(956) 627-3484 (956) 212-4572

5305 N 23RD ST, MCALLEN TEXAS

MEXICAN CULTURAL CENTER IN THE RIO GRANDE VALLEY REOPENS ITS DOORS WITH A MAGNIFICENT GALA Mission Photography by Anai Noyola

With amazing success, the reopening of the Mexican Cultural Center in the Rio Grande Valley took place last April 27th. The event was hosted at the Mission Event Center. Community leaders gathered for this special occasion, the reopening of the center to promote culture and Mexican traditions. The Mexican Consulate in McAllen Texas, directed

by Consul Eduardo Bernal Martinez, provided assistance from their committee for this cultural center, which is now directed by Mrs. Mary Carmen Austin. The evening program consisted of different presentations, including Mariachi and Folkloric Ballet, a photographic exhibit, along with saxophone music. A runway exhibit, with the different Mexican outfits by state, showcased the great tradition and colors of each state. This rich and festive event was directed by the journalist Dalia Ramirez, who was the Master of Ceremony. With the assistance of more than 500 people, the evening was a success at celebrating the great Mexican culture.

BRENDA TREVIÑO, VICTORIA VARGAS, AND PRISCILLA GONZALEZ

VICTOR PEREZ, CONSUL EDUARDO BERNAL MARTÍNEZ, MAYOR DR. AMBROSIO HERNANDEZ, AND RUBEN PLATA

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PRESENTS

“SYMPHONY...

That’s Entertainment!”

2018-2019 CONCERT SEASON A NIGHT IN PARIS CONCERT I Friday, September 28, 2018 McAllen Performing Arts Center

OF THE

A CELEBRATION OF WOMEN MUSICIANS

Featuring International Pianist Christopher Atzinger in Saint-Saëns Piano Concerto #2 and music by Enescu and Tchaikovsky will dazzle the audience.

A HARRY POTTER HALLOWEEN CONCERT II Friday, October 26, 2018 McAllen Performing Arts Center

A SPOOKTACULAR evening of music from Phantom of the Opera, Night on Bald Mountain, The Rite of Spring and Harry Potter and The Sorcerer’s Stone.

A TOUCH OF FROST CONCERT III Friday, December 7, 2018 McAllen Performing Arts Center Experience the Magic of the Season with your entire family.

Enjoy Holiday Favorites and New Surprises featuring The Valley Symphony Chorale.

DIVAS OF THE SYMPHONY GALA A CELEBRATION OF WOMEN MUSICIANS Thursday, February 7, 2019 | 6:30-9:30 pm McAllen Convention Center Ballroom The 2019 Gala will feature more than twenty women musicians of the VSO symphony to offer stellar entertainment for the evening.

2019 Cultural Leader of the Year TBA.

HOORAY FOR HOLLYWOOD

HOORAY FOR HOLLYWOOD CONCERT IV Friday, March 1, 2019 McAllen Performing Arts Center

Featuring International Pianist Anastasia Dedik performing Gershwin’s Rhapsody in Blue.

Also featuring great music from the movies you love.

THE 3B’S: BEATLES, BRAHMS AND BEETHOVEN CONCERT V Friday, April 5, 2019 McAllen Performing Arts Center Beethoven’s 9th Symphony featuring The Valley Symphony Chorale plus Brahms rounded out by the Fab Four.

Renew your Subscription by: FRIDAY, MAY 25, 2018 | New Subscriptions Begin: TUESDAY, MAY 29, 2018

VALLEYORCHESTRA.ORG | (956) 661-1615

BOB’S STEAK & CHOP HOUSE FIRST YEAR ANNIVERSARY Edinburg Photography by Lionel Castillo

Bob’s Steak & Chop House commemorated their 1st anniversary in the Valley with a two day celebration with the McAllen, Mission, Edinburg and RGV Hispanic Chambers of Commerce. In addition, the restaurant is happy to announce that they are now open for lunch Monday thru Friday! Visit Bob’s, and you will find value and fine cuisine in every experience. bob-steakandchop.com

RIBBON CUTTING WITH THE EDINBURG AND RGV HISPANIC CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE

EMILIO SANTOS, VIVIAN ALANIZ, JANNICE SARMIENTO, AND SOFIA AYALA

RIBBON CUTTING WITH THE MCALLEN AND MISSION CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE

JOHNNY RODRIGUEZ, MARIA ALVAREZ, EDNA DE SARO, AND AUGIE LOZANO

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IRENE CARNAHAN, CYNTHIA SAKULENZKI, MAYOR RICHARD MOLINA, MARIE GARCIA, AND VICTORIA GOMEZ

MICKIE GARCIA, SANDRA DARLING, IRMA MUÑOZ, AND PETER HIGGINS

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LONE STAR NATIONAL BANK OPENS NEW LOCATION IN EDINBURG Edinburg Photography by Lionel Castillo

COWBOY CASH WITH THE LONE STAR NATIONAL BANK TEAM

Lone Star National Bank celebrated the Grand Opening & Ribbon Cutting of the second banking center in the city of Edinburg, located at 1505 Lone Star Way. This banking center is the 31st location across South Texas. Lone Star National Bank, The Valley’s Bank…continues to grow!

DAVID DEANDA

ISMAEL LSMB, OCTAVIO GUAJARDO, JOHNNY SINGH, FRANK DAVILA AND JEFF WORST

JOHN KITTLEMAN, KELLY MCDANIEL AND KAREN VALDEZ

DANIEL DE LA VIÑA, VICTOR GUERRA, JOHNNY RODRIGUEZ, VERONICA GONZALEZ, BOB VACKAR, AGUSTIN LOZANO JR. AND ROM BROWNMILLER

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Emerging Threats in the Digital Age TITLE TALK WITH VALLY LAND TITLE CO. Before the digital age, title companies solely focused their business on closing deals and searching real estate records. However, due to the ever-increasing use of digital communication, title companies, such as Valley Land Title Co., have shifted their concern to ensuring that customers

Valley Land Title Co. takes the emergence of phishing, wire fraud, and all matters of cyber security seriously. Here are a few proactive steps you can take to ensure you do not fall victim to phishing or wire fraud:

are protected from phishing and wire fraud. Therefore, it is important to provide you with a bit of information regarding the rise of phishing and wire fraud and how it may affect you now and in the future.

1. Call and confirm wiring instructions by phone before transferring funds. Use the phone number directly from our website, 2. www.valleylandtitleco.com, or from a business card.

The start of wire fraud often begins well in advance through a process called phishing. Phishing is the fraudulent practice of criminals sending emails claiming to be something or someone they’re not. You may receive emails and/or phone calls from a person posing as a realtor, escrow officer, etc. when in reality it is a criminal attempting to obtain your personal information (i.e. login passwords, credit card numbers, and countless other sensitive information). A more targeted variation of phishing – called spear phishing – is aimed specifically at high-profile executives or personnel who manage wire transfers.

In Southlake, TX where down payments can be quite high, police issued a warning in March 2018 about scammers who hacked into the email accounts of real estate professionals who then posed as title company employees so they could

3. Be suspicious and alert: Wiring instructions and information regarding payments don’t frequently change.

4. Confirm the account number and the name on the account with your bank before sending a wire.

5. Verify by calling your title professional or real estate agent to validate that the funds were received – if money has been sent to the wrong account, detecting it within 24 hours gives you the best chance of recovering your money.

6. Forward, don’t reply. Criminals tend to use email addresses that are very similar to the real one. By manually typing in an email address, you make it easier to determine if someone attempting fraud is targeting you.

steal a homebuyer’s down payment. The Southlake PD saw about 10 similar cases within the last six months where hackers attempted to steal a homebuyer’s high-dollar down payment. In cases like these, the hacker will send an email to the homebuyer pretending to be the title company selected for the closing. This email tells the buyer that “there has been a last-minute change to the wiring instructions,” and instructs the buyer to wire their money to a different account.

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BUSINESS. DONE.

The District at McAllen – Mixed Use – McAllen This beautiful, North McAllen Center is home to Texas’ largest, and the Rio Grande Valley’s only, UFC Gym. The Center will be anchored by Wellmed, and has recently undergone extensive, capital improvements. Perfect for retail, medical, and office.

The Shoppes at Rio Grande Valley – Retail - Edinburg This Academy-anchored Shopping Center is perfectly situated in Edinburg’s rapidly growing retail district. The center has access from Trenton Road and U.S. Highway 281 providing great Expressway visibility. Additional Anchors: Burlington, JC Penny, Bobs Chop House.

Owassa Lakes - Industrial/Flex-Edinburg Owassa Lakes is Edinburg’s premier, new-construction, Industrial Park, anchored

by CH Robinson Worldwide, Trane, and JB Hunt. With great proximity to Highway 281, this North/South arterial road allows for easy access to Central and North Texas, as well as the U.S./Mexico Border.

281 Plaza - Retail/Office - Pharr 281 Plaza is a new construction strip center situated with frontage on US 281 and Eldora Rd. The center has great proximity to the new, Bert Ogden Arena, and it’s perfect for any retail, medical, or office use.

Trenton Plaza– Retail/Professional Service – Edinburg This new-construction Strip Center is perfectly situated in Edinburg’s rapidly growing retail district. Situated on a Marriot outparcel, the Strip Center has great proximity to The Bert Ogden Arena, three, new-construction hotels, and The Shoppes at Rio Grande Valley.

Plaza Del Sol – Mixed Use - McAllen This mixed-use facility consists of 1st Floor lease space and a 2nd Floor Executive Business Center. Plaza Del Sol sits in the heart of North McAllen and has great proximity to all DHR Hospitals. Perfect for retail, medical, or office.

DANIEL GALVAN, CCIM 956.451.2983 dgalvan@cbcworldwide.com

www.cbcworldwide.com

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