SOCIALIFE May 2018

HIDALGO COUNTY EDITION YEAR 14 ISSUE 5

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Rio Carnival at Quinta Mazatlan

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David Tutera Inverview

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Rio Grande Regional Hospital Top 100

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Edinburg State of The City

THE MAGAZINE OF THE RIO GRANDE VALLEY

Rancho

GUADALUPE

Where country meets modern elegance “A modern twist With a modern twist on the traditional ranch, this 200+ acre property is a stunning ceremony and reception venue that has a breathtaking lakefront view. With indoor-outdoor on tradition” ceremony and reception options that can hold up to 576 guests. Rancho Guadalupe is the Features: Timeless and

ideal venue for every type of celebration or social occasion.

Event Center Elegant Ballroom • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Chapel with Contemporary Designs

Indoor & Outdoor Access Maximum Capacity - 576 Multi-use back room 14ft built in bar Built in stage area Built in sound system Projector and screen Kitchen area Private parking Round tables & Banquet chairs Cocktail tables Bar Services Available Security Services Included

Ranch Guest House • • • • • • •

Enchanting guest house lake views

2 story Balcony Event Maximum Capacity:88 Full kitchen 3 bedrooms – 4 bathrooms Overnight use available Outdoor restrooms

Chapel • • • • •

Built in pews Maximum Capacity: 50 Natural lighting Small holding room 1 restroom

Photography Opportunities • Lake view Scenery • Bridge & stream • Spiral Staircase

For more information contact Bianca Lopez at 956-249-0216 or events@cantuconstruction.com.

Photos courtesy of Anahi Weddings and Jay Caballero Photography.

For more information contact Bianca Lopez at 956-249-0216 or events@cantuconstruction.com.

RANCHO GUADALUPE OPEN HOUSE

Rancho Guadalupe opened its doors to the public to view the grandeur of this place.

Surrounded by a wooded area, green pastures and lakes, a road leads to a grand ballroom with magnificent decor. On that beautiful day, Rancho Guadalupe was filled with creativeness as vendors displayed and offered food, desserts, photos and arrangements. Guests experienced first-hand the potential of every aspect of Rancho Guadalupe.

Photography by Anaí Noyola

GERARDO LOZANO, CLAUDIA GARCIA , MARIA DE LA ROSA

SALLY FRAUSTRO GUERRA AND ALONZO CANTU

ANGELA GARCIA AND ALEJANDRA GARCIA

VIOL CONSORT STRING ENSEMBLE

SAMMY PERALES SANDRA POPE (DREAM WEDDING BY ALL PARTY RENTALS)

KIMBERLY ACEVEDO AND MARIANA LINALDI

WWW.SOCIALIFERGV.COM

BRITNEY GARCIA

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Rancho Guadalupe Open House. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3 Rio Carnaval That Night at Moon Over Mazatlan. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Government Affairs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 The Forbidden Pleasures of Carmina Burana. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 1st Annual Hidalgo County High School Theatre Awards. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 STARS 15 Year Celebration. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Interview With David Tutera. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Renee’s Spa. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 RGV Seminar. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 SALLY FRAUSTRO GUERRA, PRESIDENT + PUBLISHER

BRONSON DELRIO, VICE PRESIDENT + PUBLISHER

Shining Stars of Hidalgo County. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 SOCIALIFE Magazine Re-Launch Event. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

Hello Valley!

The Gift of a Lifetime by Shah Eye Center. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

Welcome back to our 2nd issue of SOCIALIFE The Magazine of the Rio Grande Valley (SLRGV)!

Regional Hospital Top 100 Hospital. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

I have to tell you how gratified I am by the outpouring of praise we have received from the SLRGV readers who compliment both my team and the content of the re-launch of the SOCIALIFE magazine. Your kudos keep us working hard to make SOCIALIFE The Magazine of the RGV to continue to happen.

McAllen ISD Fishing Tournament. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

It was truly an honor to have had The University of the Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV) in our first issue. This incredible institution has impacted thousands of lives in the Rio Grande Valley and beyond and I am proud to be an alum.

Thank you for entrusting us to share your vision.

We are delighted that our cities, institutions and organizations have come together to showcase our beautiful valley life, our magic valley. In the months ahead, will also display the history, culture, and “hidden gems” of our incredible community. There is so much beauty, talent and great people in the Rio Grande Valley! My 1st issue was an incredible experience and I look so forward to the next!

IDEA Dinner & Auction Scholarship Gala 2018. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 12th Annual Customer Appreciation Spring Fiesta. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 UTRGV Chess. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 Santa Fe Steakhouse | Inside The Kitchen. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 2018 Border Texan of The Year. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 David Tutera Visits the RGV. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50 Richard Cortez Farewell Luncheon. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54 Edinburg “State of the City”. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55 Rodco Steel Ribbon Cutting. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58 Crunch Fitness Ribbon Cutting. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58 2018 McAllen Mayor’s Prayer Annual Luncheon. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60 Lone Star National Bank Groundbreaking. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61 Bert Ogden Arena Exclusive Hard Hat Preview. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62

This month we spotlight, Rio Grande Regional Hospital (RGRH). RGRH was awarded the prestigious honor of being named a “Top 100 Hospitals” in the nation. This is truly a distinguished and deserving award to our very own top-notch hospital! Congratulations on this accomplishment and Thank You for your exemplary service to the people of the Rio Grande Valley!

Also, a profound and sincere appreciation goes to our advertiser’s contributions. This allows you, our readers, to receive SOCIALIFE magazine for your enjoyment free of charge. Therefore, the entire valley can be part of our magazine as we continue our quest on this exceptional journey. Together, we can make a difference...one issue at a time.

ON THE COVER: CHRISTIAN MÖLLER, FROM DECIBEL COMMUNICATIONS,

Con mucho cariño,

Sally Fraustro Guerra

President and Publisher

Bronson delRio

Vice President and Publisher

Decibel Communications Design Karla Kernz Editor Christina Barrera

Sales Coordinator

Cliff Ranson

Photography Director

Anai Noyola

Event Photographer

Dustin Coronado

Event Photographer

Lisa Peña Guest Writer

FINISHING THE COVER ANNOUNCING RIO GRANDE REGIONAL HOSPITAL’S RECENT ACHIEVEMENT. READ MORE ON PAGE 34

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!

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 AT S YLV AN 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!

RIO CARNIVAL

QUINTA MAZATLAN CELEBRATES THEIR 12TH ANNIVERSARY

Carnival was held at the 12th Anniversary of Quinta Mazatlan, in the City of McAllen. With bright colors, feathers and wild animal designs, the Bombrasil Band provided exceptional rhythm sound to the movement of the samba dancers, with the guests enjoying the dinner party, fine spirits, and steps on the dance floor.

Photography by Dustin Coronado

ELLY BRASIL SOULLEON DANCERS

The community had a great time with the Rio Carnaval theme party at Quinta Mazatlan, raising funds at this beautiful destination and premier environmental education center.

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WWW.SOCIALIFERGV.COM

The McAllen Heritage Center

Museum of History & Culture

le ebrating Our C

ADDRESS

301 S Main St.

HOURS OF OPERATION

McAllen, TX 78505 PHONE

(956) 687-1904

EMAIL

mcheritage@att.net

WEBSITE

mcallenheritagecenter.com

Wednesday - Friday 1:00 pm - 5:00 pm Saturday 11:00 am - 4:00 pm

GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS

COUNCIL DISCUSSED ISSUES IN OUR AREA

The McAllen Chamber’s Government Affairs Council had Senator Eddie Lucio, Jr., as their guest speaker. The Council meets once a month to discuss issues that could affect the area’s business community.

Photography by Anaí Noyola

CHARLES MARINA, OMAR GUEVARA, EDWARD LOPEZ, AND KEITH PATRIDGE

EDDY LUCIO

EDDY LUCIO AND STEVE AHLENIUS

Know a place where the night air is alive with music.

A place where street tacos are the real thing, and there is over 35 nightclubs to explore on the safest streets in Texas.

Come down this weekend, so you’ll be the one who knows a place. McAllen, TX.

visitmcallen.com

THE FORBIDDEN PLEASURES OF CARMINA BURANA Photography by Dustin Coronado

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The Valley Symphony Orchestra and Maestro Peter Dabrowski presented the final concert of the Symphonic Visions’ season, Forbidden Pleasures of Carmina Burana, and was held at the McAllen Performing Arts. This event allowed us to experience the power from Carl Orff’s Carmina Burana, featuring the Valley Symphony Chorale and vocalists Heather Phillips, soprano, Brian Yeakley, tenor, and Lee Poulis, bass, led by Chorale Director, Dr. David Means.

WWW.SOCIALIFERGV.COM

THE PALMS AWARD

1ST ANNUAL HIDALGO COUNTY HIGH SCHOOL THEATRE AWARDS

The ceremony was held at the McAllen Performing Arts Center with performances by select students from each participating school.

Beginning with a magnificent Red Carpet experience, the schools that were nominated for “Best Musical/Non Musical”.

Photography by Anaí Noyola

The schools performed a fully orchestrated number, and nominees for “Best Lead Actor/ Actress” also performed a medley of songs from their respective roles. Finishing with stirring presentations and awards, it was an unforgettable evening.

WWW.SOCIALIFERGV.COM

SOCIALIFE

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STARS CELEBRATED 15 YEARS WITH AN 80’S-STYLE PARTY Photography by Dustin Coronado

LETTY GUTIERREZ, SID GUTIERREZ

Stars Scholarship Fund hosted its annual Rio Grande Valley Extravaganza at the L & F Distributors in McAllen. They celebrated $30 million dollars in scholarships awarded to over 14,500 students from Texas over the last 15 years! This year’s Extravaganza sponsors experienced an 80’s-style celebration, enjoying a dinner, cocktails, a live auction, a Casino Night, plus live music entertainment by The Spazmatics and more!

ANNETTE FRANZ,JOHN DAVID FRANZ

MYRTHA TIJERINA, SALLY FRAUSTRO GUERRA, ANNETTE FRANZ, MARTHA BENAVIDES

LUCY CASSO, GUY BAILEY, RICHARD CORTEZ, DIANE BARTEK

MAYOR JIM DARLING, SANDRA DARLING

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WWW.SOCIALIFERGV.COM

JOE LAMANTIA, MORIS CAMP, PAT BRADLEY

CHRIS KING, ALICIA KING, KANE DAWSON, BRENDA ENRIQUEZ

DIANE BARTEK, RICHARD CORTEZ

AMANDA LETICIA, SENATOR JUAN CHUY HINOJOSA

BRONSON DELRIO, MARTHA BENAVIDES

WWW.SOCIALIFERGV.COM

PATRICK DANIEL, JESSICA DANIEL, MELISSA ARAMBURO, ADRIAN ARAMBURO

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AN INTERVIEW WITH

DAVID TUTERA

David Tutera is an American celebrity wedding planner, bridal fashion designer, author and professional speaker. He is the host of WE tv’s show, My Fair Wedding with David Tutera and David Tutera’s CELEBrations.

Tutera is the author of seven books.

Photography by Karla Kernz

David Tutera, visited the Rio Grande Valley in a two-day stay. He was the special guest for the ribbon cutting of Capilla del Rio in Rio Grande City, and the next day he attended the main event at the McAllen Convention Center. But before the event, Tutera gave us a little bit of his time.

ABOUT DAVID TUTERA When you were growing up in Port Chester, did you ever imagine you would get this far?

Ahh no, I actually had no idea. I mean everything was so unexpected, it was kind of an accident.

Why do you say accident?

So my plan was, I was going to the University to become a lawyer, and I had left after a year and a half, or took a break I should say, and chose to take a little side gig to make some money which was delivering singing telegrams. Literally that choice for a short period gave me the opportunity to buy the company that I was working for, which was this tiny company out of a woman’s home. That started my little retail shop which meant me decorating the window. Someone came by and saw my decorations, and that led to my first paid party for a client. Yes, that stepped me into a business that kept building and building.

So you’ve been doing this 30 years?

A Long time! Before it used to be like “Dude 20 years”, and I pushed it. Now I just say I’ve been doing it a long time. Because then people start doing the math, and they are all like hmmm… And I’m just done, and I’m just not going there. (Laughing)

So, in the long time that you’ve been doing this, what is the most valuable lesson you’ve learned that kept you going.

That’s a great question. I think it is reminding myself of how exciting this industry is, and the passion I have for making people happy; might come down to the excitement of my clients and their guests, which is giving them that joy of having a grand celebration. Yes, it’s about being creative, and yes, it’s about doing all these beautiful things with the vendors. But, I think if that were it, I would probably have stopped by now. I’ve also gone in different directions between writing books, being on television and creating a brand, and keeping my clients. So there’re a lot of things that keep me fresh and excited. If I were just doing parties every single week for 30 years, I probably wouldn’t be sitting here having this conversation with you because I’d probably be burnt out.

So you would say that it’s like finding different types of wins, achievements?

Yeah! I would say that is the case. I am one that tends to--I don’t want to say lose focus--but I tend to get bored in something that is doing so well, and I need to find a new outlet. I don’t say goodbye to anything; I need something new. So I like to keep reinventing myself--it really excites me.

How do you balance being a father, husband, TV star, author and celebrity wedding planner - and get it right?

The secret is that I take two things very seriously: I consider being a husband and a father really seriously. So that’s my focus, and it’s me balancing my career, not balancing my family. And when you adjust your career you find ways to like, today, I could have stayed here longer and taken a flight tomorrow, but instead, I’m taking the first immediate flight out of here to be home for my daughter, to then spend the weekend with my family. And then Monday comes, and I’ll be back at work, so I know how to carve out time, literally carve out time. People are, “Like, how can you carve out time if you are doing so much?” You’d be shocked at how much time you can find if you manage your time better. That’s what I built this on.

“It’s me balancing my career, not balancing my family.”

How did you make the jump to from wedding planner to TV and books?

Back in 2000, I don’t know why other than I saw a lot of people writing books, and I said: “I need to write a book; I would like to write a book about designing parties.” And I wrote my first book, and it was published. I was asked to be on The View on ABC to promote my book. You know, I didn’t realize then that a book was like a calling card to get into television. I got onto The View and did really well on camera, live. I didn’t know that was something I was able to do. Then they kept bringing me back to be their expert and that just kinda set me up in another direction. Ohh, I should be doing television! That became the next stage of my life. That was the catalyst that took me from being just a wedding planner, to being an author, to be a television personality, to then set a way to creating a brand, which is my new business.

I’m sure you weren’t JUST a wedding planner.

Yes! I was JUST a wedding planner. Yes, I was doing well, but not like I’m doing now.

So, do you have any rhythms? Quick, what’s the first thing you do in the morning?

Most fantastic wedding that you have personally touched that’s taken your breath away? Your favorite wedding?

I do. I’m very clockwork. Ahh, yes, when I’m not traveling, every morning I wake up very early, typically 5:30 or 6:00 am. I get up I go to Starbucks, I go to SoulCycle, I come home, I’m in a peaceful place from Soul Cycle, I get ready with my daughter, take her to school, and then the day begins with work, and then it turns and repeats.

My wedding. I have to say, not because it was my wedding, but because I had the knowledge to do something that I tell all my couples to do. It was beyond emotional, for everybody, and it was a night that had twist and tons of entertainment. If I were a guest going to my wedding, it would probably have felt like a really epic Broadway show, visually beautiful and emotionally spectacular. Now mind you, it was the worst experience flat out I ever had in my life. I was terrible, weeks before the wedding I wasn’t the nicest person to be around because it was just to much pressure on myself. Seriously, planning your wedding with these expectations… “ughh…”

Last thing you do at night…?

When I’m home, which isn’t often because of traveling, we have a regimen where we put Cielo, my daughter, to sleep. We read her a book in the library. There are two things we tell her: a story from my imagination, which is brand new every night. That is not easy to do. Cielo can’t ever be a character in a story, she goes…“No daddy, I want imagination!”

Then I have to sing to her ten songs. Ten songs at night, and then by the time I get through 10 songs, she’s sleeping. It’s like you never want that to end.

EXCLUSIVE TUTERA WEDDING TIPS What are the top 3 things to remember the day of your wedding?

First, make sure your wedding has a story, personalize it. The second thing I think is incredibly important: be acutely aware of the budget and make sure you stick to it. You don’t want to go into debt for a wedding. And the third thing would be to create something different and memorable so your guests can leave your wedding seeing something that has never been seen in someone else’s.

What do people forget at every wedding?

Well, couples forget to say thank you. It’s interesting. You know the first thing I tell couples is that we need to hear them speak. We need them to be grateful that their guests came from far and near, say thank you and make a toast to them. That’s something that’s not done enough or at all, so I do try to enforce that. I think they also forget to stay together as a couple.

One of the things, when you’re having a wedding, is that you should be glued to each other’s shoulder, and you should be dancing with your friends together. You should be at the bar together; you should be at your table together. How often do you see a groom or a bride at the table by themselves or walking in separate directions? That’s not the day to do it.

What’s something to think about at summer weddings?

Easy, if it’s too hot, don’t put people in the heat and the sun and make them uncomfortable. I mean, it’s great, that’s the summer, but find a place that has overhead protection and makes them feel comfortable. People like to get dressed up, so let them get dressed up and make them feel beautiful dressed up, NOT uncomfortable.

FILL IN THE BLANKS The color of the summer season is: Coral The thing no bride should forget: The groom, Ja! The best wedding day: Saturday In the summer, hair up or hair down? Up. Well half up / half down. I’m

not a big fan of all the way up.

The worst meal at a wedding is: I’m stuck on that one; I don’t have

an answer.

Maybe the worst meal you have tasted in a wedding? No, that’s never

happened, that would never happen because we have tastings.

No, I have no answer. Plan ahead!

Maybe at someone else’s wedding? A wedding which you were invited?

No one invites me to their weddings; that’s my biggest problem. It’s ok; it’s entirely ok. Actually, I shouldn’t say that. The last wedding I went to was my cousin’s, and I’m very close to them. They made every possible mistake there, and I had to be the guest that pretended not to see that. They would tap my shoulder and ask me to take care of things because they were going wrong, and I’m like, “No, I’m not doing this, I’m a guest, Ja!.”

RGV SEMINAR

ON THE BILATERAL RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN MEXICO AND THE U.S.

The City of Pharr hosted the Rio Grande Valley statement on the North American Free Trade Agreement. Mayor Ambrosio Hernandez, Mexican Consul, Eduardo Bernal Martinez, US Consul of Matamoros, Otto Hans Van Maersen and the AEM, RGV Director Flavio Garduño, presented a panel of over 15 experts that emphasize the importance of binational relations.

Photography by Anaí Noyola

FEDERICO ALANIZ PENA, MAYOR MARTIN CEPEDA (HIDALGO), MONICA PEREZ

MARIO LIZCANO AND DR. AMBROSIO HERNANDEZ

SOCIALIFE 24

WWW.SOCIALIFERGV.COM

THE CITY OF

IS PROUD TO HOST

MEMORIAL DAY CEREMONY HONORING THOSE WHO PAID THE ULTIMATE SACRIFICE MONDAY, MAY 28TH • 9 - 10 AM

MEMORIAL PARK•501 W. EGLY AVE. PLEASE JOIN US

SHINING STARS OF HIDALGO COUNTY AWARDS DINNER

The Zonta Club of West Hidalgo County, an international organization of professionals empowering women worldwide through service and advocacy, hosted their annual dinner, Shining Stars of Hidalgo County Awards. A magnificent reception was held at the McAllen Country Club, with this year’s honorees Chris Ardis, Sally Fraustro Guerra and Annie Holand Miller.

Photography by Dustin Coronado

ANNIE HOLLAND MILLER, CHRIS ARDIS, SALLY FRAUSTRO GUERRA

ANNETTE FRANZ, JOHN DAVID FRANZ

SOCIALIFE 26

PATTIE ROSELUND, FRANCY JONES, IRMA GARZA

WWW.SOCIALIFERGV.COM

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

Everything at Bob’s is Bigger.

Including Our Lunch Menu.

Now Open for Lunch.

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.

bobs-steakandchop.com

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

BRONSON DEL RIO, MARTHA BENAVIDES DEL RIO, NEIL BARRACLOUGH

BRONSON DEL RIO, MARTHA BENAVIDES, NEIL BARRACLOUGH

CLIFF RANSON, KARLA KERNZ, SALLY FRAUSTRO GUERRA, BRONSON DEL RIO

IRMA GARZA, NORA SHAH, DR. SHAH

SOCIALIFE MAGAZINE HOSTED A RE-LAUNCH EVENT At Embassy Suites in McAllen. New owners, Sally Fraustro Guerra, President/Publisher & Bronson delrio, Vice President/Publisher, celebrated their new design among family, friends and UTRGV, Chambers of Commerce from McAllen, Mission, Pharr, Edinburg, and RGV Hispanic, as well as the Economic Development Corporations.

Photography by Dustin Coronado

ROY RODRIGUEZ, REBECCA M. OLAGUIBEL, SALLY FRAUSTRO GUERRA, MICHELLE RIVERA, BRONSON DEL RIO

JACQULYN KNEE, ALEJANDRO MARTINEZ

YILDIRIM DURAK, KELLY SCRIVNER

MARTHA HINOJOSA, VAL LAMANTIA, GUY BAILEY

Denise never intended for her mother to find the list, but her mother did. Her mother never realized what Denise had missed out on growing up and showed the list to her dad.

The Gift of a Lifetime

Denise was a senior in high school and practically involved

Denise graduated with honors and was having lunch with her parents when her mom presented her with an envelope.

When she read the note, her eyes swelled with happy tears.

“We never realized what you missed out on in life by having to wear contacts and glasses. As you enter a new phase in your life, we hope this gift allows you to do all those things you want to do to be you. Love Mom and Dad!”

in everything: cheerleader, band, tennis, and the debate team.

She loved to be around her friends and had a crush on a boy.

Since the age of five Denise wore glasses. Starting In the eighth grade, she was fitted with contacts, but they irritated her eyes, so she made sure to take them out every night and most of the time she wore her glasses.

For years, Denise dreamed about LASIK but was too young.

She would be 18 this summer, just before college. She started thinking about all the things she could do if she had LASIK and didn’t have to worry about contacts or glasses.

That night she started her list: “swimming without those ugly, hideous googles, go to the beach, walk in the rain, ride a bike, play soccer, no more keeping up with solution, go down a water slide, have a boy look into my eyes and see me.”

She continued, “I think I look OK in glasses, but not sophisticated.

I can wear hats and headbands comfortably with LASIK. No more expensive prescription sunglasses. Yeah.”

Her mom and dad gave her LASIK from Shah Eye Center as her graduation gift. That day she called Shah Eye Center and set up her appointment to be tested to see if she would be a candidate for LASIK on her eighteenth birthday. Two months went by ever so slowly and her special day arrived.

She was a candidate—and received a gift of a lifetime.

Today, Denise is free from glasses and contacts and wears nonprescription sunglasses. And, yes, a boy has looked into her beautiful brown eyes.

Inspired by actual Events

Quality Care In South Texas Rio Grande Regional Hospital Provides Nationally Recognized Healthcare as a Top 100 Hospital

An HCA Affiliated Hospital

For over 35 years, HCA affiliated Rio Grande Regional Hospital has stood proudly as a pillar of healthcare excellence in the Rio Grande Valley. This year Rio Grande Regional Hospital is celebrating an unprecedented national honor and milestone no other hospital in the Valley can claim: Rio Grande Regional Hospital is proud to be recognized nationally as the only hospital in the Rio Grande Valley named as a 100 Top Hospital by IBM Watson HealthTM in its annual study. The analytics company identifies top-performing hospitals in the U.S. based on overall performance; the winning hospitals were announced in the March 5, 2018 edition of Modern Healthcare magazine.

Rio Grande Regional Hospital is listed among the top 100 hospitals due to outperforming other facilities in several key professional measures, most notably in improving outcomes at a lower cost than other hospitals. Additional key metrics the top 100 hospitals shared include: better survival rates, fewer complications and infections, shorter length of stays, shorter emergency department wait times, lower inpatient expenses, and higher patient satisfaction scores. IBM Watson HealthTM bases its study on a balanced scorecard of publicly reported clinical, operational and patient satisfaction data.

“Being recognized as a distinguished Top 100 Hospital in the country shows the commitment and dedication from our physicians, nurses and staff to our mission statement, ‘Above all else, we are committed to the care and improvement of human life,’ and this is the guiding principle we live by every day,” said Cris Rivera, Chief Executive Officer at Rio Grande Regional Hospital. “Together, we will continue to proudly put our patients first in everything we do to ensure every patient and their loved ones always receive the highest quality of care.”

Rio Grande Regional Hospital’s mission of providing compassionate healthcare begins with its ability in providing a full spectrum of medical services. Designated by the Texas Department of State Health Services as a Level III Trauma Center, the hospital’s emergency department and its two freestanding emergency rooms (ER) in Edinburg, and McAllen/Mission make it the area’s leading ER provider. The hospital’s caring team of emergency room physicians and nurses provide life-saving medical care 24 hours a day across these multiple facilities, bringing care to the communities who need it most.

Additionally, Rio Grande Regional Hospital is staffed with a team of highly trained surgeons and anesthesiologists who use innovative technology to provide a wide range of both inpatient and outpatient medical and surgical services. These include cardiovascular care, orthopedics, general surgery, single-site robotics surgery and a bariatric surgical program with roboticassisted technology.

Rio Grande Regional Hospital also brings world-class care through its comprehensive women’s health services, which includes four women’s clinics and childbirth education classes. The dedicated team of medical professionals offer nationally recognized maternity care to women and their babies in its Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, providing the Valley the highest standard of maternal and newborn care.

Dr. Jennifer Almonte-Gonzalez, OB/GYN and Chief of Staff at Rio Grande Regional Hospital summed up the hospital’s relationship to the Valley community, “We’re honored our community entrusts their health to Rio Grande Regional Hospital, and we look forward to continuing the tradition of providing uncompromising and exceptional healthcare service for generations to come.”

WWW.SOCIALIFERGV.COM

Performances UPCOMING

MAY

9 11 18 19 20

SEPT.

AUG.

JULY

JUNE

26

STOMP Frankie Valli Guerra de Chistes: La Despedida Three Dog Night El Matrimonio Perjudica Seriamente la Salud Belanova y Moenia

9 10 19

Mario Aguilar Farruko Yani 25: Acropolis Anniversary Concert Tour

6

Miel San Marcos e Invitado Especial Juan Carlos Alvarado

11

Felipe Esparza

12-16 Le MisĂŠrables

For tickets, visit ticketmaster.com or visit the McAllen Convention Center box office

R el

a x . G a t r. C o n n e ct. he

MAY 12TH

IDEA DINNER & AUCTION SCHOLARSHIP GALA 2018

This year’s 12th Annual Dinner & Auction highlighted the impact of IDEA Public Schools in the Rio Grande Valley and beyond, through the stories of current students, alumni, supporters and leaders. Over 600 guests connected over dinner, bid on student artwork, and heard from IDEA students who shared their gratitude for the contributions to scholarships for IDEA’s college-bound seniors and alumni.

Photography by Anaí Noyola

BRAD SCOTT, SAM GOESSING, AND RAFAEL AMAYA

OLIVIA LEMUS AND ROBERT LUCIO

MARISSA RODRIGUEZ, KARLA PUENTE AND GABRIEL PUENTE

BRIAN GODINEZ, LEIGHANN GODINEZ, DOMA GARCIA AND JERRY GARCÍA

ANDREW RAMIREZ , CELESTE CANTU , MYRNA RODRIGUEZ, PAUL RODRIGUEZ

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WWW.SOCIALIFERGV.COM

MRS. CHARLES BELL, VERONICA WHITACRE, NANCY VENDER , AND MR. CHARLES BELL

NINA TORKELOSN, DOLORES MATNEY AND DOUG MATNEY

RICHARD KING BROWN, JARED BRAND , RALEIGH DAVIS

SAUL SANCHEZ, ESTELLA SAENZ , AND CARLOS MELGUIZO

VERONICA REYES, JOSÉ REYES, OCTAVIO CANTU AND YVETTE CANTU

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MCALLEN ISD FISHING TOURNEY RAISES MORE THAN $28K

April 28 was a great day for fishing!

Nearly 150 anglers turned out for the inaugural Superintendent’s Fishing For Kids Tournament. Held at South Padre Island, the event raised more than $28,000 for student scholarships.

Adults and kids alike fished for Redfish, Trout and Flounder.

One of the sponsors is the South Texas Rising Scholars (STARS) Scholarship Fund founded by Joe LaMantia Jr. and his family.

Since its founding in 2002, access to post-secondary education has been the central focus of the Stars Scholarship Fund.

The formation of the organization grew out of desire to address the great need for educated citizenry.

The tournament was held in conjunction with the McAllen Education Foundation.

Sponsors who helped make this tournament a big success include Norman Jolly Law Firm, B2Z Engineering and Government Asset Services LLC. Other sponsors include: Doctors Hospital at Renaissance, Halff & Associates, Chanin Engineering, Javier Hinojosa Engineering, The Print Shop, PBK Architects, Hellas Construction, International Bank of Commerce, Valley Care Clinic, Field Turf, Longhorn Bus Sales, Rio Grande Regional Hospital plus Jerry Maddox and Larry Delgado.

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Where Business Meets Opportunity

Become a Member Today!

956-585-2727

The World of vomFASS

LOOK LOOK

TASTE

ENJOY ENJOY

www.missionchamber.com

Concierge Service Personalized Gifts | 956.630.9559 3300 Expressway 83 Ste. 1240 McAllen, Texas 78501

membership@missionchamber.com

12TH ANNUAL CUSTOMER APPRECIATION SPRING FIESTA

It’s a FIESTA! Valley Land Title Co. (VLTC) began the tradition of throwing its Customer Appreciation Spring Fiesta event 12 years ago to celebrate and thank their loyal customers for putting their trust in VLTC. Through the years, the Customer Appreciation Spring Fiesta has become a hallmark event among their customers, who always look forward to the event.

Photography by Dustin Coronado

LEO GUERRERO, JOSE CORREA, VICTOR SANSORES, PAUL RODRIGUEZ

DANIEL GALVAN, FRANK MONTANO, JAVIER CANTU, CLARISSA GUERRA

“It’s our way to say ‘Thank You’ to everyone who has been a part of our family through the years,” comments VLTC’s CEO, Paul Rodriguez. Next year, VLTC celebrates its 100 year anniversary and is anticipating its largest event to-date that will be nothing short of epic!

JONATHAN LINDLEY, CINDY URESTI, OSCAR CHOW, NANETTA PALOMO

RICHIE CANTU, SEBY HADDAD, DOUGLAS SILVA

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WWW.SOCIALIFERGV.COM

 Â? Â

The Perfect Mixer

The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley Chess Team is still riding high from its first national championship win, and to keep the momentum going, the university hosted celebrations in their honor on both the Brownsville and Edinburg campuses.

Many students, faculty and staff came together to celebrate the team’s stunning win over five-year reigning national champs Webster University. The annual President’s Cup tournament – the Final Four of College Chess competition – concluded April 1 at the Marshall Chess Club in New York City.

UTRGV beat Webster 7.5 to 7.0 after what FIDE arbiter Mike Hoffpauir called “the strongest Final Four in the history of this tournament.”

UTRGV President Guy Bailey applauded the team on the victory, and thanked them for a win that brings great pride for the entire UTRGV community.

“We couldn’t have asked for anyone to do more for this university than you have done,” Bailey said. “We’re going to be thinking of the depth of this accomplishment for years to come, and I don’t expect this to be the last one.”

Webster was considered to be the favorite,” Macieja said. “Let me just add that a team from South Texas had never won the national collegiate chess championship before.”

Andrey Stukopin, senior mathematics major and grandmaster member of the Chess Team, said he appreciated the encouragement the team received from the student body along the way.

“We would like to thank our fellow students, whom we have the privilege to represent, for your ongoing support and friendship, which makes us all feel like this is our home away from home,” Stukopin said.

Dr. Douglas Stoves, associate dean for Student Rights and Responsibilities and who also oversees the chess program, said he is extremely proud of the team and how they represented UTRGV. “The national championship of chess now runs through the Rio Grande Valley,” said Stoves, who accompanied the team to New York for the tournament.

By Steven Masso

Coach Grandmaster Bartek Macieja also spoke to the crowd and told them about the difficulty of achieving this feat. “The competition was tough. It was the strongest Final Four tournament in history and

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WWW.SOCIALIFERGV.COM

SANTA FE STEAKHOUSE

INSIDE THE KITCHEN

Photography by Christian Mรถller

There isn’t a chef at the Valley’s fine dining standard, The Santa Fe Steakhouse.

There are two.

Fernanda Leal and Jorge Gonzalez are collaborating head chefs at The Santa Fe Steakhouse located in South McAllen.

Together, with Sony Rego, they collect international flavors to create the menu. They draw inspiration from their roots and apply newfound tastes from their travels.

Leal found her passion while standing on her toes beside her mother in the kitchen watching her prepare paellas in Mexico City. After studying at UT-RGV, she went to New York to attend the Culinary Institute of America. Her preparation led her to study under the world renown iron chef Morimoto in Miami. Inspired by her mother, she went to Spain to learn the nuances of a perfect paella.

Jorge Gonzalez drew his inspiration from his mother and grandmother. He started as a dishwasher in a little Italian restaurant in New York. He went on to cook in Mexican, Indian and Italian kitchens.

Although he is exceptionally skilled in different culinary techniques, he says with a heartwarming smile, “I will never be able to replicate my mother and grandmother’s fideo con pollo.”

While Santa Fe is mainly a steakhouse, Leal and Gonzalez find inspiration in international cuisines such as Japanese, Italian, and French cooking techniques.

Flavors can be such a subjective topic, but the duo has learned to trust each other’s instincts. “There are times that I am stuck on a recipe, after attempting it five or six times, Jorge can just walk in and taste it and suggest I blend two ingredients, and immediately the flavors brighten up, and the recipe is complete.” Jorge appreciates that Fernanda does the same thing for him.

Aside from the incredible steaks that Santa Fe is known for, the chefs both suggest digging a little deeper in the menu.

“People always leave with a big smile after ordering the pasta and the Pork dishes.

And Fernanda’s lobster bisque is amazing.”

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™

2018

BORDER TEXAN OF THE YEAR Photography by Dustin Coronado

BOB VACKAR, ALONZO CANTU, AND JANET VACKAR

DENISE INGRAM, JOHN INGRAM, PAULA MOSLEY AND PAUL MOXLEY

RICHARD CORTEZ, DIANN BARTEK, ALMA VERA AND JOE VERA

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The Border Texan of the Year Award was established to pay tribute to an individual who has made significant contributions to the betterment of the Rio Grande Valley and South Texas. This year, Chancellor John Sharp, of The Texas A&M University System, was honored at a reception and dinner at the McAllen Convention Center. All proceeds of the event are given to the honoree’s chosen charitable organizations.

CHAD SZUTZ, JENNIFER SZUTZ, KAYLYNN NORMAN AND ROBERT NORMAN

SAM SALDIVAR, MAYOR JIM DARLING AND DANIEL VELA

RICHARD MOLINA AND DALIA MOLINA

GERRY GARZA, BLANCA CARDENAS AND FELICA VILLARREAL

DR. SHILEY REED, SENATOR EDDIE LUCIO, A&M CHANCELLOR JOHN SHARP , BOB VACKAR

WWW.SOCIALIFERGV.COM

Looking for fun educational experiences for your children this summer? The International Museum of Art & Science will open registration for its 12th annual Operation Imagination Summer Camp for children ages 6 -13 on May 14! Camp themes change weekly and include topics such as marine biology, chemistry, art, geology, water conservation, engineering, creative writing, and more! Fees include supplies, a camp t-shirt, and exploration time in our art and science exhibits.

Lunches are provided in partnership with the McAllen Independent School District.

$160/week

$180/week

Call us at (956) 681-2800 to register. Spaces are limited.

DAVID TUTERA VISITS THE RGV THE VALLEY WEDDING PAGES COMMEMORATED THEIR 15TH ANNIVERSARY Photography by Anaí Noyola

The Valley Wedding Pages celebrated their anniversary by presenting world class designer and motivational speaker David Tutera at a special luncheon at the McAllen Convention Center. Tutera spoke and answered questions for brides-to-be, a photo OP and book signing was also held by this entertaining expert. This event also had a fabulous runway showcasing the amazing bridal designs of Manuel Tiscareño.

DAVID TUTERA

DAVID TUTERA, LETTY GUERRA CANTU, BRONSON DELRIO

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ELIZABETH MARTINEZ PERKINS, LETTY GARZA, KARLA KERNZ

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EDINBURG CISD

9TH ANNUAL SUPERINTENDENT’S SCHOLARSHIP GOLF CLASSIC

The Edinburg Consolidated Independent School District held its 9th Annual Superintendent’s Scholarship Golf Classic at the Monte Cristo Golf & Country Club in Edinburg. The event generated scholarship funds for graduating seniors. This year’s Golf Classic raised over $87,000 in scholarships, thanks to the generosity of the Edinburg community and businesses.

Photography by Anaí Noyola

SOCIALIFE 52

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Edinburg CISD

pre K

for all

Register for our FREE Pre-K half-day classes at your neighborhood elementary school. Your child must be 4 years old on/or before September 1, 2018.

For more information, call (956) 289-2300.

(Edinburg CISD Media Publication 4/18) It is the policy of Edinburg C.I.S.D. not to discriminate on the basis of sex, age, handicap, religion, race, color, or national origin in its educational programs. Es poliza del Distrito Escolar de Edinburg el no discriminar por razones con base en sexo, edad, religion, raza, color, origen nacional, ni descapacidad dentro de sus programas educacionales.

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

RICHARD CORTEZ

FAREWELL LUNCHEON Photography by Karla Kernz

The City of McAllen, McAllen Economic Development Corporation and the McAllen Chamber of Commerce hosted a Farewell Luncheon honoring Richard Cortez for his many years of service as McAllen Mayor, City Commissioner and Public Utilities Trustee at the Old Church Winery in McAllen. Mayor Jim Darling with the Commissioners proclaimed April 17th, 2018 as “Richard F. Cortez Day.”

MAYOR JIM DARLING, JJ AVILA, BEVERLY BRADBURN AND BOB BOGGUS

MAYOR JIM DARLING, SANDRA DARLING, RICHARD CORTEZ, SALLY FRAUSTRO GUERRA AND DAVID GUERRA

TOM MANGELSCHOTS, LAURA MANGELSCHOTS AND CONSUELO CARRALES

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RICHARD CORTEZ, RICARDO RODRIGUEZ AND MAYOR JIM DARLING

STEVE ALHENIUS, MARTHA HINOJOSA AND KEITH PADRIDGE

TONY AGUIRRE, MARK VEGA, JJ RODRIGUEZ AND MIKE PEREZ

WWW.SOCIALIFERGV.COM

EDINBURG

“STATE OF THE CITY”

Mayor Richard Molina presented his first “State of the City” address in an open-to-the-public event at the Edinburg Municipal Auditorium.

The night started with invigorating mariachi music, followed by the presentation of Cary Zayas, the new Public Information Director.

Photography by Karla Kernz

Following that was the ceremony with the presentation of colors, the Pledge of Allegiance, and the National Anthem and invocation leading to the introduction and entrance of Mayor Richard Molina. Molina talked about new improvements to the city drainage, a new resource center, and city spending.

WWW.SOCIALIFERGV.COM

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RODCO STEEL DISTRIBUTORS GRAND OPENING

RODCO/Lone Star Steel has been serving South Texas for 25 years. Now they are thrilled to introduce a new location in Mission, TX. The celebration started with a blessing by Father Martin, followed by a ribbon cutting by the RGV Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. You can find Rodco at: 808 E. IH2, Mission, TX 78572 • 956-424-6206

Photography by Karla Kernz

MIGUEL RODRIGUEZ JR, OMAR RODRIGUEZ, JOSHUA ROJAS AND BRENT SMITH

HOMERO VILLARREAL, CRISTINA VILLARREAL, LICY DE RODRIGUEZ AND OMAR ROGRIGUEZ

CRUNCH FITNESS

EXPANDS TO THE RIO GRANDE VALLEY

Crunch Fitness opens its doors in Pharr, innovating the fitness industry by offering state-of-the-art equipment and 24-hour service. Come and try firsthand their new location at 500 N. Jackson Rd. Ste. H • Pharr, TX. 78577 • 956-616-2931 Ribbon Cutting by the Pharr Chamber of Commerce

Photography by Anaí Noyola

FAMILY RODRIGUEZ

LACO FLORES AND LETCIA HERNANDEZ

CLAUDIA CHANIN AND LICY DE RODRÍGUEZ

BUSINESS. DONE.

The Chase Tower • Office • McAllen A newly remodeled, landmark, building in the heart of McAllen’s Central Business District, The Chase Tower offers unbeatable views, 24-hour, uniformed security, and on-site banking and dining. Move-in ready and custom spaces available.

Cornerstone Medical Park • Office • Edinburg This beautiful, Class “A”, Edinburg office building sits perfectly within Edinburg’s Medical Corridor. A hard-corner location on Trenton Road and McColl Road make it the ideal office location.

Shoppes at Valencia • Retail/Restaurant • McAllen This Sam’s Club anchored shopping center in North McAllen is the perfect location for any retail or restaurant concept. With excellent frontage on 10th Street and easy access to Trenton Road, the center is easily visible and accessible.

Tribeca Square • Mixed Use • McAllen Tribeca Square is a new construction, mixed-use center, perfectly situated in one of South McAllen, TX’s busiest and fastest growing areas.

Perfect for retail, medical, and office.

Valencia Marketplace • Retail/Office • McAllen Located at the intersection of Trenton Rd and 10th Street, this new construction, shopping center is perfect for any retail or professional service user.

Various sizes available.

Stone Oak • Retail • McAllen This Academy anchored Shopping Center is located in one of South McAllen’s busiest retail districts, and has frontage on both Interstate 2 and Ware Road.

One space available.

DANIEL GALVAN, CCIM 956.451.2983 dgalvan@cbcworldwide.com

www.cbcworldwide.com

LEASING • PROPERTY MANAGEMENT • DEVELOPMENT Listing information provided by Coldwell Banker Commercial RGV. Information is deemed to be reliable but is not guaranteed. ©2018 Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC, dba Coldwell Banker Commercial Affiliates. All Rights Reserved.

Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC, dba Coldwell Banker Commercial Affiliates fully supports the principles of the Equal Opportunity Act. Each Office is Independently Owned and Operated. Coldwell Banker Commercial and the Coldwell Banker Commercial Logo are registered service marks owned by Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC, dba Coldwell Banker Commercial Affiliates.

LONE STAR NATIONAL BANK GROUNDBREAKING NEW FUTURE SITE FOR BANKING

Lone Star National Bank held the groundbreaking ceremony of what is soon to be the 8th banking center in the City of McAllen, to be located at 3605 Buddy Owens Blvd. Established in 1983, Lone Star National Bank has been providing banking services to communities in South Texas for the past 35 years.

Now more than ever, Lone Star National Bank is proud to be The Valley’s Bank.

Photography by Anaí Noyola

ALONSO CANTÚ, EDNA DE SARO, AND PAUL RODRIGUEZ

SERGIO MELENDEZ , ESTHER GUERRA , VIPUL PATEL, MONICA GRACIA , MICHAEL RIVERA

DAVID DEANDA

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LARRY SAFIR, COWBOY, DAVID OLIVERA_

PADRE AMADOR GARZA

WWW.SOCIALIFERGV.COM

2018

MCALLEN MAYOR’S PRAYER ANNUAL LUNCHEON Photography by Anaí Noyola

This year marks the 47th Annual McAllen Mayor’s Prayer Luncheon. The event took place at the McAllen Convention Center. Joining Mayor Jim Darling and city leaders in what was certainly an inspirational program, this year’s Keynote Speaker was T.C. Stallings, an actor, speaker and author. T.C.’s mission is to share God’s message and to help others recognize the calling God has placed on their lives.

The goal of the prayer luncheon was to heighten our community’s spirituality as we interact with one another in business and personal settings to plan the affairs of our great city.

WWW.SOCIALIFERGV.COM

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BERT OGDEN ARENA

EXCLUSIVE HARD HAT PREVIEW

Bert Ogden Arena had an exclusive “Hard Hat” reception to preview this grand arena that’s scheduled to open late this summer. In the Arena, there was Live music and Several food & beverage trucks that catered to several hundreds special guests.

Photography by Anaí Noyola

AGUSTIN LOZANO JR, BOB VACKAR, JANET VACKAR, MARSHA GREEN AND JOHNNY RODRIGUEZ

BOB VACKAR, ALONZO CANTU, AND JANET VACKAR

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SENATOR JUAN CHUY HINOJOSA, AMANDA LETICIA AND RICARDO HINOJOSA

WWW.SOCIALIFERGV.COM