Dear DRHCC Business Membership,

Your resilience and courage to continue to operate in this COVID Economy is inspiring.
You have proven that your will & determination will not surrender to this difficult period.
The vaccines are being distributed as I write this article and there is light at the end of the tunnel.
2021 will offer you the opportunity to put into practice all of the lessons that were learned in 2020 which in turn yield future positive results for your business.
Curbside pickup / Enhanced Drive Thru / Residential Delivery are several of the ways that have seen favorable operating procedures to keep the wheels of commerce turning.
More than ever, your ability to advertise / network in our community will play an oversized and important role.
The entire Del Rio Hispanic Chamber Board of Directors is committed to multiplying your efforts on your journey to grow your business.
For obvious reasons, it is important that CDC recommendations be strictly followed when conducting business as to ensure the well-being of your staff and customers.
The entire board applauds your determination and looks forward to putting this challenging time behind you.
Let us know how we can help.

Sincerely,
Carlos Ayala (Director of Public Relations)

The Pandemic hit us and the world changed.  What has occurred in our community in spite of COVID-19 has been admirable; as local organizations continue functioning by following COVID-19 safety protocol.  Nevertheless, even under these dire circumstances, we decided to honor those members and friends who have exceptionally serve our community.  The DRHCC awards committee and Board members selected the following individuals for a special award for going above and beyond the call of duty serving the DRHCC and Del Rio.

1. Mayor Bruno Lozano. Mayor Lozano believes in our mission, to promote the interest of small businesses, including minority and women-owned enterprises; to enhance the economic and educational environment; to foster representation in major issues of public policy; and to promote awareness and preservation of the Hispanic heritage.  He has been very supportive of our endeavors, and understands our needs. He envisions both Chambers working closer together for the betterment of the City of Del Rio in hopes of increasing economic development and tourism once this pandemic is over.  Thank you, Mayor Lozano, for your continued support and for advocating on our behalf for the betterment of our community.    

1. County Judge Lewis Owens Jr. Judge Owens has been at the forefront of the Pandemic, doing his best along with his team to take care of our community.  Since the beginning of the Pandemic, Judge Owens has and continues keeping us informed in any way possible: radio, newspaper and social media.  He also supports the mission of the DRHCC and has demonstrated full support to local businesses during the Pandemic. We thank you for your continued support.

1. Dr. Tomas Sigala’, Jr., Regional Advocacy Director, Raise Your Hand Texas.   After much research and travels throughout El Paso, Ft. Stockton, Del Rio, Eagle Pass, and other communities, Dr. Sigala’, selected our organization to sponsor the most important non-partisan Candidate Forum in our community.   He joined our organization and started the process of holding the Candidate Forum here in Del Rio with DRHCC as a Co-sponsor.  The Candidate Forum was a huge success and we thank you for the opportunity of working together.

1. Members of the Del Rio News Herald. They have always been there for us through contributions above and beyond.  David Rupkalvis, Ruben Cantu, Karen Gleason, Atzimba Morales, and Brian Argabright all deserve a recognition on our behalf and on behalf of our community.   Thank you and good luck on your future endeavors. Note: this recognition had already been designated before the DRNH went out of business.   

1. Rose Soto, Ramada Inn.  All the staff members at Ramada Inn have always done a great job assisting us.  Polo Del Rio, has always been there for us and has previously received recognition.  Now we recognize Ms. Soto.  She worked diligently to ensure that our Candidate Forum event was a success.  Ms. Soto also assisted with the DRHCC annual meeting following COVID-19 safety protocol.  For your professionalism and great customer services we thank you.

1. Gregorio Gutierrez, CEO & Founder of Conexion Hispana.  Mr. Gutierrez was there for us from day one during the Founding of the Del Rio Hispanic Chamber of Commerce.  He applauded our efforts, supported our mission and published articles in his newspaper which he tirelessly delivered throughout our community FREE of charge!  Mr. Gutierrez fought a courageous battle against COVID-19.  He left a legacy which will live on with Conexion in our community and throughout the State of Texas.

Fans will have an opportunity to purchase limited seating for all of SFDR’s athletic events directly on the SFDRCISD Athletic Department’s webpage at www.sfdr-cisd.org/athletics.  In order to purchase a ticket, interested persons must successfully complete their order online, and a virtual ticket will be sent to their e-mail address. On the day of the event, ticket holders will be able to enter the event by showing their virtual ticket on their phone to the gatekeeper. No tickets will be sold at the events and no money will be exchanged. Fans should also prepare to be prescreened for COVID-19 before entering the event. As a precaution for the safety of our athletes and others, we urge all individuals to remain at home if they or anyone in their household is sick.
Sports fans can access and watch each game during their appointed time using the following link: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsKw-67hNZK1mp8DHIKADIQ

(Austin) — Raymond P. Meza of San Felipe Del Rio CISD has been reelected to a three-year term on the Texas Association of School Boards’ (TASB) Board of Directors, representing TASB Region 15. The election was held during the Association’s 2020 Delegate Assembly, which was held virtually on October 3.
TASB is a nonprofit association established in 1949 to serve public school boards. School board members are the largest group of publicly elected officials in the state. The districts they represent serve more than 5.4 million public school students. For more information on TASB, visit tasb.org.

Del Rio, TX – On October 14, 2020, American Airlines notified the City of Del Rio the suspension of service announced until November 3, 2020 has been extended to December 1, 2020.
At this time, bookings are unavailable out of DRT International Airport until December 1. Flights after December 1 are currently available for booking.
The City of Del Rio owns and manages the Del Rio International Airport. The Airport has been a Part 139 Certified Federal Aviation Airport since February 2005. For more information about the Del Rio International Airport, please contact 830-774-8610 or email jonofre@cityofdelrio.com.
For more information contact the City of Del Rio International Airport at 830- 774-8610

The purpose of the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce is to promote the interest of small businesses, including minority and women-owned enterprises, minority and women professionals and entrepreneurs; to enhance the economic and educational environment; to foster representation in major issues of public policy; and to promote awareness and preservation of the Hispanic heritage.  We are truly privileged in our community to have elected officials, business owners, educators and citizens who understand that we all share the responsibility of creating economic success and well-being of our community.
As our community continues to work during times of uncertainty due to the coronavirus, it is important to join efforts and work together to support our local economy. The Hispanic Chamber of Commerce will continue to advocate for what is best for the community, and provide a connection between people and organizations to support one another and advance our interests. This year, we will take the initiative to create a proactive environment towards assisting local businesses.
I would like to take this opportunity to also encourage you to vote in the 2020 elections.  Your vote matters and shapes not only the future of our community, but also the future of our nation.  Democracy works when you exercise your right to vote.
I am honored to be selected as the 2020-2022 Chamber President and I look forward to work
alongside our dedicated volunteer Board members who share the same vision for our community. Gracias por la oportunidad de trabajar para servir a mi comunidad de Del Rio.

The Texas Association of Hispanic Chambers of Commerce organized a presentation by Dr. Anthony Fauci on the subject of how Covid-19 has impacted the Hispanic population.  Locally, the September 24th webinar was sponsored by the Del Río Hispanic Chamber of Commerce in partnership with Middle Rio Grande Council of Governments. Notifications were sent to the different local agencies and registration through the DRHCC numbered 33 participants representing Del Rio, Val Verde County, Uvalde, Eagle Pass, and Carrizo Springs. The presentation by Dr. Fauci was followed by a series of questions posed to Dr. Fauci by a designated representative of the group.  
For prevention information visit www.coronaviruspreventionnetwork.org

Hello and greetings from the Mayor’s office, I am Mayor Bruno Lozano and I am honored to be invited to be a guest writer for this month’s newsletter. Small businesses are the heartbeat of any community. Mom and pop shops that fill city centers and walkable streets keep the vibrant feel of any community alive. It is especially true here in Del Rio. When I think of small businesses, I think of local tastes, influences, and friendly smiles. Supporting these businesses is supporting local entrepreneurs. 
Entrepreneurs are visionaries. They fill in the niche that big corporate entities cannot, simply because the small business owner is in tune with local needs in small communities. Together mom and pop shops and corporate groups can work in tandem to enhance small communities. That is true here in Del Rio with both types of business models participating in local events, fundraising, and investments within the city. 
It is important to recognize the diversity of business owners; from mom and pop shops to women owned and operated store fronts. Our community showcases the very fabric of fulfilling the American Dream. Anyone that commits time and effort to create or establish a business can succeed, especially if given the opportunity.
This is why it is important that the City of Del Rio supports small businesses by providing opportunities for entrepreneurs to create and establish businesses in the City. For example, in the downtown area the City of Del Rio has reinvigorated the façade grant program. During the COVID-19 pandemic, $200,000 has been awarded to assist local merchants during financial crisis through the Small Business Stimulus Program. There have been 52 local businesses awarded grants ranging from $2,500- $5,000. Of these grants, 25% were awarded to businesses within the downtown/Main Street area. These grants helped retain 54 jobs in the downtown area. The Small Business Stimulus Program is an example of how the City is committed to save up to 300 jobs locally during the pandemic crisis. The Mayor and City Council have also supported the Façade Grant Program which has issued 2 grants with numerous applications currently pending completion. 
Nearly $10,000 has been invested in painting crosswalks and adding stop signs in the downtown area and beyond. We have revitalized the water fountain near Greenwood park in an effort to continue bringing life to this culturally unique and historical area of town. These efforts showcase the commitment that the City of Del Rio, Mayor and City Council have to the downtown area. Today, for example, there are thriving boutiques and shops at the Shops on Main, serving as the gateway to our downtown businesses. These shops benefit from the city’s infrastructural investment which can create a pedestrian friendly atmosphere. 
Pre-COVID, a successful art walk held monthly lit up the streets of downtown for a festive, art-filled, and family-oriented outing. Another great example of local merchants and businesses coming together is the Little Market at Greenwood Park. I look forward to welcoming these festivities when the time is right, dependent on COVID-19 restrictions. In addition, the City of Del Rio has partnered with the Casa de la Cultura to paint the traffic control boxes in the downtown area. This encourages local artists to visually enhance and use their creativity as a form of expression, all the while promoting our community’s rich history and culture. 
With many varying districts within the City of Del Rio, there is always room for a small new business to be established. I completely support and welcome entrepreneurs to vision a future Del Rio that continues to be vibrant, welcoming, and above all else the best place to live.

The month of October resonates with La Fiesta de La Amistad in the Del Rio community!  However, October 2020 will be the exception!   Like a thief in the night, a dark cloud descended upon us, not only spoiling our Fiesta, but taking our loved ones.  In loving memory of all the victims (102 to date) of this deadly virus known as COVID-19, we, the International Good Neighbor Council have decided to celebrate in a responsible manner.   Our celebration this year will focus on the reason Fiesta de la Amistad originated:  The signing of the treaty to construct Amistad Dam.  On October 24, 1960, US President Dwight D. Eisenhower and  Mexico’s President Adolfo Lopez Mateos met in Ciudad Acuña, Coahuila Mexico to sign the treaty to construct Amistad Dam.   Since our modern day Fiesta celebration, has its origin at that 1960 meeting, it will be the focus of our celebration this year.   We have heard the saying “Go Big or Go Home”!   At IGNC’s first meeting this year, we had grand plans for Fiesta.  We would be celebrating the 60th Anniversary of the signing of the treaty to construct Amistad Dam.  This grand celebration called for its guest of honor to be none other than our President, Donald J. Trump!  The invitation went out to the president and to this date we await his response.    Our rationale:  In 1960 President Eisenhower visited Del Rio and Ciudad Acuna to sign the treaty;  in 1966 President Lyndon Baines  Johnson came to check on the Progress and in 1969 President Richard M. Nixon came to dedicate and officially open Amistad Dam and reservoir for business!   On October 2, 2020 the Exhibit celebrating the 60th Anniversary was opened at the Whitehead Museum and will be open all month for the public to visit!  


DORA G. ALCALA’,
Past President IGNC