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(Written for the Harlingen Independent School District Media and Public Relations department) Commissioner Julian Alvarez III, representing Labor on the three-member Texas Workforce Commission, appointed by Governor Greg Abbott in 2016, grew up in Harlingen in the Fair Park neighborhood. He attended Bonham and Bowie Elementary schools and played football at Gay Junior High School. While attending Harlingen High School (HHS), he was a letterman in baseball. He graduated from HHS in 1982. His parents didn’t expect him to go to college after graduation. They were hard workers (his father from La Feria sold cars for more than 25 years at Boggus Ford and his mother from Harlingen worked as a bank teller) but they had not attained higher education. The Commissioner's decision to attend college was part of what he calls “mirror association” – his close childhood friends Roberto Gallaga (now an Athletic Coordinator/Athletic Teacher at Memorial Middle School in Harlingen) and Daniel Araiza (now Principal at Secondary Alternative Center in Harlingen) went to Texas A&I University in Kingsville, and he followed suit after briefly attending Texas Southmost College. The Commissioner had to pay for college on his own so he worked as a custodian at The Sportsman in the summers while his father helped by providing his sales commissions when he could. The Commissioner was the first and only member of his family to attend and complete college, earning his Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education degree from Texas A&I. His professional career started at Texas State Technical College (TSTC) in Harlingen. He also worked as a highway patrolman for the Texas Department of Public Safety. He returned to TSTC as their Director of College Information, where he was responsible for getting students in the Rio Grande Valley (RGV) interested in the TSTC programs and support services. He then made the leap into the political arena by serving as the Texas Regional Director for U.S. Senator Kay Bailey Hutchinson. In that position, he championed legislative and policy issues related to south Texas. He also served as President and CEO of the Rio Grande Valley Partnership where he coordinated programs to advance economic development and employment opportunities. He was appointed to the Texas Workforce Commission in 2016 and has been extended by Governor Abbott through February 2023. As Commissioner, he is responsible for representing the interests of nearly 14.5 million working Texans, the second-largest skilled workforce in the United States, second only to California. During the pandemic the Commissioner informed me that more than 70 companies moved to Texas. The Commissioner was in Harlingen recently presenting Jobs & Education for Texans (JET) grant checks to Santa Maria Independent School District and the Harlingen Consolidated Independent School District. When asked what the checks provide, he explained that the funds enable training for students interested in welding (or other industries like auto body and healthcare) with welding stations and virtual reality (VR) glasses. For the students interested in healthcare, they can use a simulator to draw blood or even use a mannequin to simulate childbirth. This unique kind of training allows students to learn right away if the job they believe they wanted is a match or not. Students who complete this training are then able to move on to jobs that require specific certifications and credentials. When I asked the Commissioner what advice he would give to students, he said success doesn’t “necessarily require a four-year degree.” Many of the demanding occupations require industry credentials and other forms of certifications. Another saying he likes to tell young girls is “ if you can see it, you can be it ,” meaning visualize yourself in the job you want, whether it be in coding or Science Technology Engineering Math (STEM)-related fields, and you can make it a reality. The Commissioner informed me that kids in the RGV have many opportunities now and are excelling at the regional, state, and even national levels when competing in such contests as FIRST Robotics. Overall, he said “who you surround yourself can pretty much tell you how you are going to be in the future. Find positive people and be around them.” The Commissioner continued, “be humble with your success that you are going to have in the future” and continue to love your family. Another of his favorite sayings is: “Remember when you wanted everything you have today,” which is a reminder to stay humble and be grateful for what you have and the hard work it took you to get there.

(This article was written by Lisa Campos and appeared in the December 2023 issue of the Explore Harlingen Magazine . Updates since the original article was written have been included.) 2023 was a big year for new businesses opening in Harlingen. Since January, I have been tracking and sharing new business openings on my Explore Harlingen community page on Facebook. Although the majority of what I tracked were restaurants, Harlingen did see a few retailers open locations this year, with national chain, Academy Sports and Outdoors, as one of the biggest and most exciting store openings in recent Harlingen history. Their newly constructed location at 2831 W. Expressway 83 in the Harlingen Corners shopping center (next to Five Below), celebrated its grand opening weekend November 17-19, 2023, with its soft opening for friends and family starting on November 12, 5-9 pm. Other new retailers that came to Harlingen this year included Ollie’s Bargain Outlet, a national discount closeout retailer, which opened on January 25 at Valle Vista Mall. Seasonal national store, Spirit Halloween, opened on August 12 at its temporary location at 1106 S. Expressway 83 and closed after Halloween. Several coffee shops opened in Harlingen this year, giving some healthy competition to Starbucks. Two national chains, Dutch Bros Coffee, which opened on June 30, and Scooter’s Coffee, which opened on August 13, brought their well-known offerings to Harlingen. Dutch Bros demolished the building at 1601 W. Harrison to create their brand-new drive thru only shop, while Scooter's Coffee constructed a new building for their drive-thru only shop at 2304 S. 77 Sunshine Strip. Additionally, several small coffee shops opened this year including: 4 Dogs Roasting, which offers coffee and tea accessories and gifts, opened on February 9 at 108 W. Jackson. Sovereign Coffee, of Brownsville, opened its second Rio Grande Valley (RGV) location in Harlingen on March 2 at 1733 S. 77 Sunshine Strip. NAME UPDATE: Cafe 406 (formerly Sparrows Sip & Thrift), a coffee shop featuring Erika's Gourmet Cookies, opened in mid-August at 406 E. Harrison. Tora Coffee & Tea, of Brownsville, opened its second location in Harlingen on September 29 at 620 W. Van Buren Ave. In addition to coffee, Harlingen added several places for its residents to eat this year, including: Ricardo's Restaurant, which has several locations throughout the RGV, opened on March 13 at 3201 S. Expressway 83, Unit C. Jersey Mike's Subs, a national submarine sandwich shop, opened on March 22 at 2217 W. Lincoln. Brady's Grill, a locally owned restaurant from La Feria, moved to Harlingen on May 6 at 610 Lewis Lane (however, they have since moved to San Antonio). Mariscos Tulum, a Mexican seafood restaurant, opened on June 13 at 102 N. 77 Sunshine Strip. Papas & Papas, a restaurant featuring build-your-own potatoes and potato tacos, opened on August 9 at 6704 W. Expressway 83, Suite D108. Main Street Boutique & Bistro moved from San Benito to Harlingen on August 31 inside the El Mercado shopping center at 712 N. 77 Sunshine Strip, Suite 6. Wings and Rings, a national wing restaurant and bar, opened on September 25 at 6710 W Expressway 77/83. Harlingen’s first gourmet donut shop, Sugarz Gourmet Donuts, located at 224 E. Jackson in downtown Harlingen, held its soft opening on November 18. The Moon Rock, Harlingen’s food truck park at 1811 W. Jefferson Ave., saw the arrival of two new trucks this year: a gourmet sandwich truck, Hatter's Sammiches, which opened on August 16, and Teddy's Barbecue of Weslaco, which launched its Harlingen food truck on August 25. UPDATE: Hatter's Sammiches relocated in December to the parking lot of Broken Tap on Ed Carey Drive. A new local bar also opened in Harlingen this year. DRINK UP is a woman-owned bar that serves specialty cocktails, beer, and snacks. It is located at 1226 Morgan Blvd., in the former Feldman’s space. The opening of Aguilar's Meat Market on October 5 was highly anticipated, as it had been in the works for close to three years. This market boasts “the freshest meat in the Valley,” and sells fresh produce, groceries, barbecue supplies, and more. It is located at 4226 S. Expressway 83. Stefano’s Brooklyn Pizza, which burned down in December 2021, has spent the past two years rebuilding their location at 4201 W. Business 83. Their highly awaited reopening is expected to occur before the end of 2023. Our neighbors in Combes and Primera also saw some new businesses, including a Love’s Country Store with a Godfather’s Pizza inside, which opened on April 24 in Combes and a new Dollar Tree at Stuart Place and Wilson, which opened on April 29 for Primera residents. Additional businesses are in the process of coming to Harlingen, possibly in 2024, including: Mr. Gatti’s, which closed because of the pandemic, included Harlingen as an upcoming location on their website. Address and estimated opening date are yet to be announced. A simulated indoor golf course and bar called The Deep End at 8311 Business 83, is in the construction phase. Cajun restaurant and bar, Walk-On’s Sports Bistreaux (near Bass Pro in the Cameron Crossing shopping center), is preparing for groundbreaking. Black Bear Diner, a homestyle and old-fashioned comfort food café, is coming to 6706 W. Expressway 83. Murdoch’s Ranch & Home Supply will occupy the space formerly occupied by Dillard’s department store at Valle Vista Mall. UPDATE: Matt's Cash and Carry, broke ground on December 15 for its newest location in Harlingen, at 2650 N. Expresway 77 I will continue to track these new businesses and others as they are announced, on my Facebook page, www.facebook.com/ExploreHarlingen .

(This article was written by Abigail Muniz-Garcia and was featured in the October 2024 issue of Explore Harlingen Magazine .) Stephanie Hajducek’s small idea has turned into a movement. Her 2-1/2-year-old nonprofit organization, This One’s for the Gals, started as an idea that has now taken off.  “It has exploded into something I never thought it could,” she said.  The organization works to help girls learn about career pathways in construction, energy, manufacturing, and maritime. Their website reads, “We like to say that we talk to girls about careers that not very many people talk to girls about from Skilled Trades to STEM and everything in between!” This One’s for the Gals, which operates out of South Texas, specifically the Coastal Bend area near Corpus Christi, will be hosting an event in Harlingen on October 3. The 2024 RGV Women in Industry Career & Education Expo, which will happen at the Harlingen Convention Center, will feature eight panel presenters including City of Harlingen Mayor Norma Sepulveda, who will be part of the leadership panel.  “The women on the panels range from wearing hard hats and steel toes to business suits and stilettos,” Hajducek said. “It’s an awareness event and a day for girls to come see… girls cannot be what they cannot see. I want girls to know there are resources out there.” The mission of This One’s for the Gals is made possible by collaborations with educational institutions, industry partners, and workforce development programs. They want to reach as many girls as they can. It is their first time doing an expo in the Rio Grande Valley.  “I don’t want to just talk about jobs but a career,” Hajducek said.  She adds that this organization started because as an adult, she realized there was a need to educate females about career opportunities outside of what everyone traditionally knows as career paths for women.  “I’m very passionate about it because I have built my program on what would have helped me… we like to talk to girls about careers that not others talk to them about,” she said.  Hajducek, who wears many hats, is not only a mother with a full-time job, but she also dedicates much of her time to this nonprofit when she isn’t at her daytime job. “I do this in my spare time, but it literally is a full-time job,” Hajducek said. The organization has even published children’s books such as “A Day in the Life of Lilly the Lab Technician: Un Dia en la Vida de Lilly la Tecnica de Laboratoria,” a dual language book that is the first in a series. These books are written to bring awareness to career pathways available to women in places that may not have been considered before or perhaps that they didn’t know existed. Hajducek isn’t slowing down anytime soon though. She sees the nonprofit organization continuing along with events like the Harlingen expo, workshops, and more children’s books. She’s hopeful about the future of the organization and what it can do for girls in South Texas.  “It’s about getting our girls to get more out of life… experience and see things they’ve never done before.  I want to just continue to inspire girls to reach for the stars in their careers. We’ve got to get girls to take that chance because it can change their life,” Hajducek said.  For more information, please visit: thisonesforthegals.com .

(This article was written by Lisa Campos and was featured in the December 2024 issue of Explore Harlingen Magazine .) 2024 was a tough year financially for most of us. It saw the closing of many small businesses. Even larger, more stable businesses struggled. Despite the strained economy, many new businesses opened in Harlingen this year. Most were restaurants, but a few retailers opened as well. Throughout the year, I kept track of these businesses and shared their openings on Facebook. Photos courtesy of Greater Chamber of Harlingen and Cookies 4 College. Here is a list of businesses that opened in 2024 in date order: The Deep End, a simulated indoor golf course and bar, opened at 8311 Business 83 on December 29, 2023. Stefano’s Brooklyn Pizza, 2.5 years after their restaurant burned down in December 2021, reopened on May 11, 2024. Their new location at 4201 W. Business 83 features a dining room that seats 190 people; a small party room for 70 people; a large banquet room that can accommodate 200 guests, and a large patio. Provecho y Salud, an upscale Mexican food restaurant, opened on May 12. They serve breakfast, lunch, dinner, and Sunday brunch. They also have live entertainment, karaoke, and happy hour specials. They are located at 119 W. Van Buren, Suite 4, Harlingen TX (corner of Van Buren and Commerce). Ashley Furniture Clearance Outlet opened at the end of May at 4405 Glasscock Ave. They offer large discounts on furniture, mattresses, and outdoor furniture. This clearance outlet is the only one in the Rio Grande Valley (RGV); the closest one is in New Braunfels. Mi Raiz Café, a coffee shop, located at 8014-B W. Expressway 83, opened on May 25. Cute Pediatrics, a new pediatric clinic under the direction of Dr. Syed K. Shah, had its ribbon cutting on May 31. They are located at 1502 Midlane Drive, Suite 111. Gong Cha, the first franchise in south Texas from international coffee shop Gong Cha USA, held its grand opening on June 14. They are located at 601 S. Expressway 83, Suite H-12, in the HEB on Lincoln’s parking lot. Walk-On's Sports Bistreaux, located at 97 Bass Pro Drive, had its grand opening on August 12. Ramses Tacos & Tequilas Primera, located at 23969 Stuart Place Road, Suite 500, had its soft opening on August 13. This is the second location for the Harlingen-based restaurant. Edith’s Mexican Buffet, located at 1600 W. Harrison, opened on August 14. Tin Roof Grill, located at 422 N. "L" Street, opened on August 14, but unfortunately temporarily closed on October 5, stating that they are looking for a different location. The Yard By Just Fresh, located at 130 E. Oleander Ave. in La Feria, opened in September. This is the second restaurant by the owners of Just Fresh of Harlingen. It features indoor and outdoor dining, as well as an event space. Munchie Galore, located at 409 S. 9th Street, had its soft opening on September 28. They serve snacks and snowcones. Matt’s Cash and Carry Building Materials, Inc. opened its first Harlingen location at 2650 N. Expressway 77 in early November. Black Bear Diner, located at 6706 W. Expressway 83, opened on November 12. They are a national restaurant chain known for its large portions of homestyle comfort foods. Photos courtesy of Lisa Campos. Looking into 2025 and beyond, Harlingenites can look forward to the following business openings: Kay Jewelers is slated to open at the beginning of 2025. Their standalone storefront will be located at the Shops at Valle Vista shopping center at 902 Dixieland, Suite 104, near Target. Cookies4College is looking to open its first storefront at 119 W. Van Buren, Unit 207. The Dilworth Shopping Center is being constructed with a combination Jamba Juice/Auntie Anne’s and Starbucks as the first tenants to be announced. Hawaiian Bros. announced it was coming to Harlingen, but no address or tentative opening date have been published yet. Mr. Gatti’s indicated it was opening several restaurants in the RGV, including one in Harlingen, but no address or tentative opening date have been announced. Harlingen had a Mr. Gatti’s for many years, but it closed during the pandemic. Additionally, I am waiting for confirmation on a national cake shop that is in contract negotiations with a shopping plaza in Harlingen. I will continue to track these new businesses and others as they are announced, on my Facebook page, www.facebook.com/ExploreHarlingen .

(This article was written by Beth Marie Cantu and appeared in the June 2024 issue of Explore Harlingen Magazine .) “Let’s try that again.” The man at the piano flips back a few pages in his music score. He repeats his instructions to the people on the stage, which is littered with mismatched chairs and reusable water bottles. They all sing the same phrase they’ve been working on for the last quarter of an hour, but this time, there’s something better. Enough to make the man at the piano shout out in joy. Once they’re done, he lets out a loud whoop, and the crowd dissolves into giggles and chatter, but what quiets them down is when the man turns to the audience and calls out: “What do you think, Miss Kathy?” Somewhere in the audience, behind a folding table littered with scripts and stacks of paperwork, Miss Kathy beams like a proud mother. “Beautiful! Did you hear how that filled up the auditorium?” The cast members smile at each other, ready to move onto the rest of the song, but Mike Ensign, the music director, isn’t ready to move on quite yet. “Let’s do that one more time.” The cast groans good-naturedly as he plays their starting notes. It, in fact, was not the last time he’d have them sing that particular part of the song, but they all knew that was the kind of meticulousness that would make their show great. The Harlingen Community Theatre (HCT) embodies the magic of local arts and community unity. The journey of HCT, now celebrating its 50th season, reflects a rich history of resilience and growth. From humble beginnings as the Briggs-Coleman Country Playhouse to its current establishment on Fair Park Boulevard, HCT has overcome challenges like nomadic performances and warehouse spaces without AC, thanks to the unwavering support of the local community. But what truly makes HCT unique is its commitment to nurturing local talent. As a nonprofit community theatre, HCT prides itself on producing four to five Broadway-quality musicals or plays annually, showcasing the diverse talents of the Rio Grande Valley (RGV) who are referred to as their “shining stars.” From children to adults, the cast members are all local performers who bring their passion and dedication to each production. At the heart of HCT's success are passionate individuals like Mike Ensign, a board member and dedicated music director, whose passion for educating and performance fuels the theatre's vibrant productions. “The theatre gave me a home and family when I was missing my own,” he states fondly. Having relocated from Northern Illinois to the Harlingen area to teach at the local schools, Ensign joined the theatre for a production of Godspell in 2014 on a whim, and now he can’t picture his life without it. Kathy Eunice, affectionately known as "Miss Kathy," embodies the soul of HCT, with her enduring love for the theatre spanning decades and touching the lives of countless community members. “I started working with the theatre first back in 1976 when the company was in the Briggs Coleman Schoolhouse,” Miss Kathy reminisces fondly. “I volunteered to work concessions with my friends in LEO Club at Harlingen HS. My stage debut was in the mid-80s production of the King and I.” Miss Kathy, when she is not working as a music teacher at Austin Elementary School, serves as the board chairperson and a frequent mainstage director for the troupe. Even when Miss Kathy isn’t serving as the director for a show, she stays close by to help monitor, give wisdom and words of encouragement, and acts as a surrogate mother, nurse, and confidant to all who happen to step through the doors of HCT. Beyond its mainstage productions, HCT opens its doors for a variety of events, offering its space for rentals to groups such as dance performances, choral concerts, piano and voice recitals, beauty pageants, and even weddings. This inclusive approach not only enriches the cultural landscape of Harlingen but also provides opportunities for diverse artistic expressions. One of the hallmarks of HCT is its commitment to fine arts education through initiatives like the Summer Youth/Teen Theatre Intensive. Led by licensed fine arts educators from the area, this camp offers a holistic theatre experience encompassing set/prop building, acting skills, music training, and stage presence. The culmination of this camp is a performance of a musical, fostering camaraderie among young artists and nurturing the next generation of stage performers and enthusiasts. HCT also encourages people of all ages to join their shows. “We are a learning theatre, and we’ve had everyone from ages 8 to 80 on our stage!” Ensign proudly states. “Whether you have experience or not, we would love for you to be a part of our family. If we can swing it, we try to include everyone we can into each show.” As HCT embarks on its 50th season with productions like "Moana Jr." and "Grease," it invites the community to join in the celebration of art, talent, and togetherness. For HCT, the community isn't just an audience; it's family, the lifeblood that sustains the theatre and keeps its legacy alive. The Harlingen Community Theatre relies entirely on ticket sales and generous donations to fund upcoming shows and sustain its operations, ensuring its continued success and vibrancy. “The (COVID-19) pandemic nearly destroyed us, but thanks to the generosity of our shining stars, we were able to keep our heads afloat, just barely surviving,” states Ensign. “Many local theatres are for profit or have trust funds set up to sustain themselves. We are not quite as fortunate.” “The community impacts our theatre by providing us with our talent base,” adds Miss Kathy. “The community has been a valuable asset over the years. They are family!” After several years of struggle, the HCT family found a light in the darkness with their most recent production of Fiddler on the Roof. The success of the production had local theatre enthusiasts reeling, with 4 out of 6 performances fully sold out. “We had to turn people away at the door, which hasn’t happened since our final production before the shutdown in 2020. It ended just the week before the world stopped moving,” states Alex Pilcher, longtime HCT shining star who typically helps run the front of the house alongside her grandmother, Johnnie Hahs. And as the curtain closes on another successful rehearsal at HCT, the cast slowly trickles out, giving hugs and saying goodbye, despite knowing they’ll be returning the next night. Even though the building is empty, the dedication and passion continue to linger in the air. The shining stars, both new and returning, know that the next day will bring something different, something new, and draws them so much closer together, as a community and a family. To learn more about upcoming shows, tickets, volunteer opportunities, or rental information, reach out to HCT via email at playhousefairpark97@gmail.com or check out their website hctvalleystars.org .

(This article was written by Steven Hughes and edited by Lisa Campos and appeared in the January 2024 issue of Explore Harlingen Magazine .) Chyann’s Specialty Café, located in downtown Harlingen, is Harlingen’s first mother and daughter owned café. Chyann’s reflects their many hats, with the cafe, event center, catering services, and boutique store all in one place.   “We’re unique,” Josie Olivares, co-owner, said over the phone. “We’re not just the one hat.”   Olivares and Kendra Hernandez, her daughter and co-owner who created the menu, developed a space where guests could enjoy waffles decorated with fresh fruit and powdered sugar and also buy a gift.   “It warms me because every time I walk by a table, they say it’s good food, or I see them taking a photo of it. It warms my body just knowing people enjoy what we do,” Hernandez said over the phone. “I love it whenever kids call us the piggy place (due to our pig-themed décor). That’s our nickname.”   Although the two Harlingen natives didn’t have food experience leading up to opening the cafe, they opened their doors as the coronavirus’ grasp on the world slowly weakened in 2021. Hernandez, only 15 years old at the time, took customers’ orders while in high school Zoom lectures.   Meanwhile, her mother was in the kitchen making home-cooked meals. Their menu consists of breakfast, lunch, weekend brunch, sweets, salads, and coffee. Customer favorites include their meatloaf and stuffed chicken. They are also well known for their beautiful charcuterie boards. As the team at Chyann’s Specialty Cafe grew, it garnered a fan base that often asks for their services in and outside their building from Weslaco to Brownsville.   Chyann’s Specialty Cafe offers space for small events like birthday parties, baby and bridal showers, Friendsgiving dinners, and more. They provided catering services for approximately 450 events in 2023.   For more information, visit them at 110 E. Jackson Street in Harlingen or call them at 956-496-2754. They are open Wednesday through Friday, 8 am to 3 pm, and Saturday and Sunday, 9 am to 1 pm.

(This article was written by Abigail Muniz-Garcia and appeared in the June 2024 issue of Explore Harlingen Magazine .) Vanessa Martinez wants people to feel inspired when they visit the “Timeless Fashion Wedding & Quinceañera Expo” happening on June 2nd in Harlingen. “It’s gonna be a glimpse of your beautiful day,” Martinez said. The event has been in the works since January. Martinez, who is a small business owner herself, hopes that the expo will also help spotlight other small businesses in the Harlingen area. “I’ve met a ton of small businesses in Harlingen that are ready to provide a service and they just haven’t been able to find the exposure yet,” she said. “If we can find a way for (customers) to connect to local businesses, it becomes more personal.” During the event, visitors can expect a runway show every hour on the hour. Martinez said that they will take volunteers on the spot to try on dresses. “The theme that I’m trying to go around is the dresses,” she said. “What makes mine different from the other expos is that the teen girls are modeling (the quinceañera dresses).” The goal is to have at least 25 vendors for the event. There will also be door prizes ranging from $25 to $4,000, which will be provided by the vendors that will take part in the expo. She said that she wants guests to feel at ease when they enter the event. “It’s not invasive; everything is free,” she said. “You’re interviewing these businesses to see if you match with them.” Martinez has been the business owner of Serenity & Grace Bakery & Boutique in Harlingen for four years. While she’s referred to as the “cookie lady” because of her specialty macarons, she sees herself as more of a themed party planner. “That’s my umbrella. I love detailing desserts and that’s my specialty now,” she said. “It really does make me feel special to make (the customer’s) party memorable.” While she hopes that this event is memorable for all the attendants, she hopes to also make it a yearly event. “I’m hoping that if we continue to do this at least once a year, vendors will look forward to it. This will start and encourage other businesses to join and be part of it,” she said. The Timeless Fashion Wedding & Quinceañera Expo will take place on Sunday, June 2, 2024 from 1 pm to 5 pm at La Fontana Event Center located on 2102 W Teege Ave. in Harlingen. It’s free and open to the community.

(This article was written by Lisa Campos and was featured in the February 2025 issue of Explore Harlingen Magazine .) Texas’ own Southwest Airlines (Southwest) is now one of the largest airlines in the world by many measures, a feat that co-founder Herb Kelleher certainly smiles on from heaven, much as he does from a downtown Harlingen mural that immortalizes his vision. On peak days, more than half-a-million people fly with Southwest on more than 4,000 flights across eight time zones. What famously started as an idea sketched on a cocktail napkin to connect Dallas, Houston, and San Antonio with affordable air service began its expansion in 1975 from that Texas Triangle with Harlingen service.  Valley International Airport in Harlingen (HRL) will host City leaders and Southwest representatives in a community commemoration of that first scheduled flight to South Texas on February 11, 1975. Photos courtesy of Southwest Airlines. Marv Esterly, Director of Valley International Airport, expressed his appreciation by saying, “Southwest Airlines’ arrival at Valley International Airport 50 years ago was a turning point for air travel in the Lower Rio Grande Valley (RGV). Their dedication to providing affordable and reliable service has made a lasting impact, helping Valley International Airport become the gateway to the RGV that it is today. We are deeply grateful for their partnership and look forward to continuing to work together to serve our community and travelers for decades to come." Photo courtesy of Southwest Airlines “Five decades of continual community service only is possible through partnership, and our relationship with Valley International Airport keeps our Customer Service scores high and our costs low, which translates into the low fares we offer our Customers,” said James Campbell, Southwest Station Leader at HRL. Photo courtesy of Valley International Airport Southwest flies nonstop to more destinations from HRL than any other airline out of the RGV: Austin, Dallas-Love Field, and Houston-Hobby. That schedule enables connections between the RGV and more than 100 destinations across the U.S., including Hawaii, as well as the Caribbean, Mexico, and Central America. Photo courtesy of Valley International Airport “My grandfather used to say, ‘there goes Herb’ when a LUV jet would overfly his house in Laurel Park,” said Brad Hawkins, Spokesman for Southwest. “17 years in my Southwest career, I now know generations of people across the Valley who have relied on us to connect them with important moments, places, and people in their lives, with our best-in-the-business Employees at Valley International Airport ushering their every journey.”  Mayor Norma Sepulveda observed, “February 11th marks a monumental milestone for Harlingen and the entire RGV as we celebrate 50 years of Southwest Airlines’ service to our community. Southwest’s commitment to Harlingen has been instrumental in connecting our region to the world and fostering growth and opportunity for our residents and businesses. We are proud to share in this legacy and look forward to many more years of collaboration and shared success.” Photo courtesy of Valley International Airport Additionally, Nicolás Mirman, Commercial Director of Valley International Airport, reflected, “Celebrating 50 years of Southwest Airlines at Valley International Airport is a testament to the strength of this incredible partnership. Over the years, Southwest has not only brought connectivity to the Valley, but has also created countless opportunities for growth, tourism, and economic development. This anniversary is a moment of pride for all of us at HRL, and we remain committed to supporting Southwest as they continue to serve our community with excellence.” The 50th anniversary celebration will take place on February 11, 2025, in the Valley International Airport main first floor lobby at 1 pm. The public is invited.

When I told my 8-year-old daughter about the new rage room in Harlingen, Out-RAGE-Us, she wanted to go immediately. Out-RAGE-Us, "the original STX rage room" opened in Harlingen on July 16, 2021. They started with one rage room on opening day, but quickly expanded to two rage rooms, with a new paint splatter room already in the works. I went to their website to make a reservation. They currently have three options: BYOB Bring Your Own Breakables - 15 minutes for $15 per person Regular Session - 20 minutes for $30 per person Big Bang Session - 45 minutes for $50 per person We chose the Regular Session and paid in full to reserve our spot. (Kids are $5 less so I was refunded $5 after our session.) When we arrived, we signed the waiver (or you can save time by filling it out online). We waited for a few minutes while they were cleaning up the room from the previous appointment. We were taken to the back to get suited up with jumpsuit, goggles, construction hats, and gloves. We were asked to choose two items each to use in the rage room. Choices included hammers, baseball bats, and golf clubs. (Pro tip: the golf clubs worked the best for us, doing the most damage!) Once we got into our rage room, we were given some safety instructions and were asked not to hit the walls directly, although we could throw things against them. We were provided with two crates of breakables (plates, glasses, coffee cups, old radios, etc.). Then the timer began and we went for it! I had never seen my daughter like that! She destroyed everything, lol. And I could tell she was having an excellent time. It's hard to think that little kids have stress, but with the challenges of the pandemic, virtual learning, and lack of socialization during Covid, I couldn't blame her! About halfway through our session, the staff asked if we wanted water to drink. I am glad they did because with the jumpsuit and other items we had to wear, we got hot quickly. We took a brief water break and then continued. We had wanted them to record video of us, but the video was only set up in one of the two rooms. I believe they are working on take-home videos for an added cost. I was able to make a quick video of her destroying an old TV. Overall, we had a blast! It was an awesome way to relieve stress. Where else can you break stuff and not get in trouble? My daughter said she wanted to come back again! If you are sensitive to strobe lighting or loud music, this activity might not be for you. Out-RAGE-Us The Original STX Rage Room 802 E. Harrison Harlingen TX 78550 956-434-8005 They are open 5 pm to 11 pm on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday; and 3 pm to 12 midnight on Friday and Saturday (closed on Sunday and Monday). Out-RAGE-Us on Facebook Out-RAGE-Us website

(This article was written by Beth Marie Cantu Ensign and was featured in the December 2024 issue of Explore Harlingen Magazine .) The Harlingen Concert Association (HCA) has stood as a cultural cornerstone over the past 92 years, enriching the community with world-class performances. Originally founded as the Rio Grande Valley (RGV) Civic Music Association, the organization began by supplementing the community with performances such as the legendary Von Trapp Family Singers, renowned composer and pianist Sergei Rachmaninoff, and Broadway icon Paul Robeson. Though the organization name has changed a couple of times, their goal remains unwavering: to unite the community through a variety of high-quality musical performances and educational outreach. From classical music to contemporary artists, tribute bands, and more, HCA has brought exceptional talent to the greater Harlingen area, deepening the region’s appreciation for artistic excellence. The non-profit organization is led by a diverse, 28-member board, representing a wide range of ages and backgrounds. But what binds this dedicated group together is their shared love of music and their collective commitment to sharing that gift with the community. With performances currently housed in the Christian Fellowship Church of Harlingen and under the leadership of current president, Barbara Disbennett, HCA continues to thrive as a driving force, enhancing the cultural canvas of the RGV. “I have two passions in my life… One of them is nursing, and the other one is the arts,” Disbennett says. After 50 fulfilling years of service, the retired nurse desired a new method of nurturing her community. With the encouragement of a couple of friends who were serving on the HCA board, Disbennett eagerly jumped in to help. Within a few years of serving as a member, sharing her dedication and passion, Disbennett was named president of the organization this past April. “The work of HCA today continues the long-term history of the organization,” states Disbennett. “We remain committed to bringing high-quality, world class musical entertainment to the RGV community.” In this corner of the world, where artistic diversity can sometimes feel limited, the HCA collaborates with local and national musical artists to bring the community together to grow their taste and appreciation of different musical genres. Disbennett believes that diversifying musical tastes is important. “Certainly we look at trends in music, but more importantly HCA is committed to offering a variety of types of musical performances… We[…]want to potentially introduce our community to artists and musical talent that offer the opportunity to expand someone’s musical preferences.” One of Disbennett’s favorite HCA performances and personal experiences was getting to meet Barbara Padilla, an opera singer and finalist on the television show America’s Got Talent. “I was so enthralled with her performance… with the magnificence of her talent,” Disbennett reminisces. “Delightful person, phenomenal artist… If I had to say something about somebody who really kind of touched me in a way I wasn’t expecting, it would be her.” While HCA is dedicated to enriching our cultural landscape through the magic of live musical performances, a significant aspect of its mission is educational outreach. The aim to inspire and cultivate a deeper appreciation for music among local students is largely in part to the generosity of its sponsors. Through the donations of their patrons, HCA has been able to offer educational programs free of cost to schools, including master classes and mini-concerts, to students throughout Harlingen. “For many students, this is their first opportunity to experience live music,” says Disbennett. In addition to these personal experiences, HCA is dedicated to supporting students that wish to pursue higher education in the arts. Every year, dozens of students have an opportunity to submit a scholarship application to be reviewed by the HCA Scholarship Committee to help fund their artistic academic pursuits. Sponsorships play a critical role in the success of the HCA, allowing the group to continue its vision of “creating an atmosphere where music comes alive and unites us.” Both corporate and individual sponsorships are essential for the organization to bring in their high-quality performers and maintain affordable ticket prices. “HCA depends on our subscribers and our sponsors,” Disbennett states. The HCA is a vital cultural institution in the region, offering more than just concerts but fostering community connections through music. As the organization looks to the future, the HCA is dedicated to fostering an appreciation of live music that transcends generations, ensuring that the joy of the arts in the community continues to grow for years to come. To get involved, visit harlingenconcert.com , or contact the organization via Facebook or Instagram (harlingenconcertassociation). The Harlingen Concert Association would like to thank their Board of Directors, subscribers, and sponsors for their continued support of arts in the community.

Crafting a Unique Dessert Experience in the RGV (This article was written by Remi Gibbs and was featured in the September 2024 issue of Explore Harlingen Magazine . ) Jacob and Marie Chang, the owners of Tora Coffee & Tea, moved to the Rio Grande Valley (RGV) over seven years ago, seeking a better environment to raise their children and start their business anew. Leaving behind the bustling life in California, they found the RGV offered the perfect blend of community, opportunity, and a slower pace of life—just what they were looking for. Tora Coffee & Tea was born from their desire to create something truly special—a place where people could gather, enjoy handcrafted drinks, and indulge in delightful desserts. It’s not your typical coffee shop. The journey hasn’t always been easy, but it has been incredibly rewarding. Moving to a smaller community with limited resources and no connections was a leap of faith, but it allowed the Chang family to spend more quality time together, strengthen their bonds, and achieve their entrepreneurial dreams. The Spirit of Tora The name "Tora," which means tiger, reflects the spirit of the café—beauty, strength, boldness, adventurousness, and a deep connection to their Asian heritage. Jacob’s background in logistics and supply management enables him to efficiently manage the operational aspects of the business, while Marie, a trained chef with a rich background in culinary arts and hotel management, brings her expertise to every recipe created at Tora. Before launching Tora, the Changs owned Bara Exotic Food in Brownsville, which helped them hone their skills and prepare for the journey ahead. Their daughter Dior is also involved in the family business, managing Tora's social media and helping to connect with the community. The Changs opened Tora—Brownsville in January of 2020 fighting their way through the pandemic, then launched their Harlingen location in September of 2023. What Sets Tora Apart Tora Coffee Tea offers a unique coffee and dessert experience, blending the rich flavors of specialty coffee with the refreshing appeal of boba tea and indulgent treats. The café has become known for its innovative menu, friendly atmosphere, and commitment to using high-quality ingredients. Tora sources its coffee beans directly from Sumatra, Indonesia, renowned for their robust flavor, and selects its teas from Taiwan and Thailand, regions celebrated for their exceptional quality. The Changs believe in using only the finest ingredients, even if it means paying a little extra—because the superior taste is worth it. One of Tora’s specialties is mochi donuts, a delightful fusion of American-style donuts and Japanese mochi flour. Made fresh every Friday and Saturday, these treats offer a unique texture and shape, a little chewy in the most delightful way. Tora is proud to be the first to introduce mochi donuts to the RGV! What to Try at Tora For newcomers to Tora, the "Tora Cafe Latte" and "Tiger Rush" are must-try signature drinks. The Tora Cafe Latte offers a brown sugar espresso experience, while the Tiger Rush blends boba with cream mousse (made fresh in-house) for a refreshing treat. For something fruity, the "Toramango" is highly recommended—it’s an ultimate mango smoothie bursting with flavor. On the food side, Tora’s "BTC Cookie" (Big, Thick, and Chunky) is recommended. Available in a variety of flavors, these cookies are as delicious as they are indulgent. They are crisp on the outside and soft in the middle. And of course, as mentioned above, the mochi donuts are one-of-a-kind. They are likely to become your donut of choice after just one bite. Looking Ahead The future of Tora Coffee & Tea is bright, with plans for expansion into franchising, online retail, and wholesale supply. The Changs aim to bring the unique Tora experience to a broader market while maintaining their commitment to quality and exceptional service. As Tora continues to grow, Jacob and Marie remain dedicated to their customers and community. They believe in enjoying the small joys, embracing the journey, supporting one another, and seeking new adventures. After all, as they say, "Life’s too short for bad coffee!" Business Name:  Tora Coffee & Tea Address:  620 W Van Buren Ave., Harlingen, TX 78550 Phone:  Harlingen Store (956) 230-3224 Order Ahead:   www.toracoffeetea.com Delivery Service:  Available via Grubhub Hours:  Monday through Thursday, 11 am – 8 pm; Friday and Saturday, 11 am – 9 pm Tora Coffee & Tea looks forward to welcoming customers, where every visit is a new adventure in flavor.

(This article was written by Roel Rodriguez and was featured in the April 2025 issue of Explore Harlingen Magazine .) Although I'm not originally from Harlingen, Texas, I soon became aware of and appreciated the tradition, commitment, and love the Harlingen community has for its local youth, middle school, and high school sports. Obviously, the Harlingen Cardinals sports programs have the most tenured tradition and legacy in the community. Blessed with great teams, great players, and great coaches, they have "written" tons of great sports stories.   I recently came across the unfolding story involving the Huerta family, who is amid creating their own sports story and adding to the legacy, with sons Nathan and Noah Huerta. (The Huerta family also has a young daughter, but out of respect for her privacy, this article focuses on the two older brothers only.) Noah will be a senior at Harlingen High School next academic year. He has already made quite a name for himself as a standout Cardinal football and track and field star. The 6'1" Cardinal running back has held his position since his sophomore year when he rushed for 942 yards and scored 19 touchdowns. Not bad for a rookie varsity player! Noah earned the 32-6A Newcomer of the Year award. During his junior year, he rushed for 1,203 yards and scored 12 touchdowns. No doubt Coach Manny Gomez and his staff are eager to see what Noah will achieve in his senior year. Noah Huerta courtesy of Ray Perez Noah has also been a member of the mighty Harlingen Cardinal Track team since his freshman year. His specialty events are the 100- and 300-meter hurdles, winning the 32-6A Championship his sophomore year. He also won another District Championship, the Cardinal 4 x 400-meter relay, and qualified and competed at the 2024 Regional Track Meet. In the current track season, Noah is leading the district in the 100- and 300-meter hurdles. Hurdles courtesy of A. Cordero  So, what's next for Noah besides completing his junior year and preparing for his senior year? Is competing athletically at the next level “in the cards” for him? Noah's role model, as he looks at his opportunities to play football and run track in college, is his big brother, Nathan Huerta, a former Harlingen Cardinal football standout and track and field star.   Nathan was a defensive beast on the Cardinal football team. He could also throw the shot put and discus, earning him many accolades. His skills were so good, he earned a football spot at Southwestern University but chose to transfer to Texas State University, where he earned significant playing time and was touted as the type of "walk on" player Texas State Football was looking for. Nathan Huerta courtesy of High School Sports Magazine It's one thing to lead by example on the field and life after high school, but it's what the Huerta family does together and for one another that joins them and brings their passion and determination to their athletic activities.   I asked proud momma, Stephanie Huerta, if Nathan mentors Noah. “They encourage each other on their work ethic,” she began. “All my children encourage each other. Year round, all three of them put in work for their sports. The three of them have connections you see in the movies. After every game, Noah will sit down and break down the football game with Nathan on the phone, on what Noah did great and what he could do better.”   Huerta brothers courtesy of Stephanie Huerta Noah clearly has a great resource in his brother Nathan. Noah has the desire, will, and humility to improve his God-given talents through discipline, dedication, and determination.   Noah's strong faith is of utmost importance to him and his entire family. Noah, as his brother Nathan did, attends mass at 6:30 a.m. on game day at St. Theresa Church with Father Joe Villalon, who blesses him in preparation for the football game. Father Villalon, a huge Cardinal fan, is often at Noah’s games as part of the Huerta village.   Nathan is competing at a higher level and Noah is doing great in high school and looking ahead at future possibilities. It is most likely that the youngest Huerta will follow in the family’s footsteps as well. Focusing on one chapter at a time, the Huerta family will humbly continue to use their athletic gifts to the best of their ability as they continue to do what they love. Could the Huerta trio be the best sibling athletes to represent the mighty Harlingen Cardinal sports program? The Huerta family would likely respond, “Thy Will Be Done!”