Last Friday, April 17, we had the pleasure of welcoming Imelda Peña and Gabriel Soto from the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality 🌿

As part of Rotary’s Environmental Month 🌎, their visit couldn’t have been more timely. Imelda and Gabriel, who serve as Small Business and Local Government Compliance Assistance Specialists, work closely with communities across Texas, including the Rio Grande Valley, helping businesses and local governments navigate environmental regulations and adopt more sustainable practices.

They shared practical, easy-to-understand insights on compliance, environmental responsibility, and the resources available to support organizations in meeting state requirements ♻️ It was a valuable conversation that tied directly into the importance of protecting our environment and strengthening our communities.

We appreciate them taking the time to be with us and contributing to a meaningful discussion during this important month 🤝

We’re looking forward to welcoming our upcoming speaker on April 24, Tim Smith, Chief Meteorologist at KRGV Channel 5 🌦️

A familiar and trusted voice across the Rio Grande Valley for decades, Tim has helped guide our community through major weather events with clarity and care. His work is a powerful reminder of how closely our environment and daily lives are connected.

As we observe Rotary’s Environmental Month 🌎, his perspective on weather, preparedness, and environmental awareness is especially relevant. Beyond the newsroom, Tim is also a dedicated Rotarian, committed to service and strengthening the communities he serves 🤝

We’re in for an engaging and meaningful conversation.

A historic moment for the club as two married couples were inducted together for the first time, strengthening fellowship and commitment to service 🤝✨

From left to right in the photo: Sponsor and Membership Chair Edna Tamayo, Louisa, Augustin, Past District Governor and fellow Rotarian Eddie Bartnesky, Jesse, his son, Emylee, and President Victor Rivera.

The induction of Louisa and Augustin Davis, along with Jesse and Emylee Capetillo, reflects the club’s continued growth and the importance of welcoming members who are committed to service above self. New members bring fresh energy, stronger family involvement, and a shared dedication to community impact 🌍💙

This milestone underscores how membership growth is not only about numbers, but about building meaningful relationships, leadership, and a deeper collective commitment to making a lasting difference 🌟

A big, fun shoutout to our Champions of ticket sales 🏆🎟️

What a finish, Team Rock pulled ahead by just 3 tickets, an absolute nail-biter right to the end 💥😄

Final standings:

  • Team Rock: 199 tickets 🥇🔥
  • Ready Preddy: 196 tickets 🥈⚡
  • Shrimp Slayer: 131 tickets 🦐
  • Shell Yeah!: 122 tickets 🐚😎
  • Mighty Mavericks: 96 tickets 💪

Total tickets sold: 744 🎉📊

Team Rock was powered by Yolanda, Roxy, David, along with Shrimp Fest Ticket Commissioner Jennifer 🚀👏

Not pictured but also part of Team Rock’s success were Bob, Nancy, Cynthia, Ed, Stephanie, Glenn, Javier, John, Norma, Paulina, Ricky, and Ruben 🙌💙

This was more than a competition, it was club spirit at its best, friendly rivalry, strong participation, and a whole lot of fun all around 😄✨

If you notice the photo 📸, take a look at the screen where we have our “From Diapers to Distinction: Baby Edition” showcase 👶✨. Featured are our Rotarians, from left to right: Darla Richmond (pictured twice), President Victor on the right, next to his twin Sergio, and Eddie Bartnesky 🎉.
 🌟An Evening of Legacy & Celebration 🌟
 
The Rotary Club of Harlingen
Proudly Presents:
 
"The Harlingen Walk of Fame
Induction Ceremony & Dinner"
 
Join us for an inspiring evening as we honor and celebrate four remarkable individuals whose service, vision, and leadership have left a lasting impact on the heart of Harlingen.
 
These outstanding honorees embody the spirit of dedication, compassion, and excellence that the Harlingen Walk of Fame was created to preserve and uplift.
 
2026 Inductees:
 
          
 
Established in 2010 as a centennial gift to the City of Harlingen, the Walk of Fame honors those whose enduring contributions have helped shape the fabric of our community and continue to inspire future generations.
 
We invite you to be part of this heartfelt tribute and evening of reflection, recognition, and community pride.
 
📍 Harlingen Municipal Auditorium Lobby
1204 Fair Park Blvd, Harlingen, TX
📅 Thursday, May 7, 2026
🕠 6 PM – 8 PM
 
🎟️ Tickets and sponsorships are now available, secure your place and be part of the celebration: https://square.link/u/xUleDeaf
 
🎟Fan Favorite – $50
General admission for 1 guest
Open seating
 
🌟Walk of Fame Sponsorship Levels

🌠 Rising Star – $250
  • Reserved seating for 2 guests
  • Name listed in event program
  • Recognition on social media (1 post)
🎞 Shining Star – $500
  • Reserved half-table for 4 guests
  • Priority placement in event program
  • Recognition on social media (2 posts)
  • Verbal recognition during the event
🎥 Legendary Star – $1,000
  • Premier Reserved table for 8 guests
  • "Presented by [Sponsor Name]" inclusion in event program
  • Multiple social media posts
  • Verbal recognition during the event
  • Opportunity to provide a brief welcome/message

SAVE THE DATE 🌎♻️
EARTH DAY – Battery Recycling Drive 🔋

📅 April 22

Time: 10 am - 6 pm

April is Rotary Environment Month, and we are taking action in a very practical way for our community and planet 🌱

📍 Venue: Harlingen Area Chamber of Commerce (Greater Chamber of Harlingen)
🚗 Drive-thru drop-off setup for easy participation

We’re excited to provide a simple way for the community to safely dispose of old batteries and rechargeable devices 🔋⚡

Start gathering your used batteries now and help us keep hazardous waste out of our environment 🌍

In partnership with ESRAG and Redwood Materials ♻️