By Joel Langton
The 830 Times
There was plenty to celebrate at the Del Rio Chamber of Commerce Annual Awards Banquet Friday night.
“We are here tonight to celebrate our successes,” said Carlos Ayala, master of ceremonies for the banquet.
More than 10 local awards were presented during the event, and three persons received national recognition from various organizations.
The local awards given were:
The Silver Spur Award was awarded to Loral Hunt for her efforts with the 4-H Food & Nutrition Program and the Del Rio High School Golf Team. Hunt and her husband Dr. Howard Hunt own Amigo Children’s Dental.
The Cowgirl Spirit Award went to Sonia Vargas for her unwavering commitment to volunteering, community participation and serving as a welcoming ambassador for the community. Vargas is a Realtor for Legacy Realty Group.
The Rodeo Star Award honored Claudia Lopez for inspiring and empowering young people, particularly young girls, by fostering confidence and positive self-image. Lopez wears a number of hats in the community, including working at Border Children and Family Services, helping manage the Del Rio Community Spotlight Facebook page and numerous other volunteer efforts.
The Western Heart Award was given to Alexandra Falcon Calderon, founder and chairperson of the Del Rio Downtown Association, for more than a decade of work toward revitalizing the city’s historic district through community events.
The Pioneer Spirit Award was presented to Cheryl Simmons for her leadership in the Rotary Club of Del Rio, spearheading projects like Rotary Village, Rotary Park and major fundraising events supporting scholarships and community improvements. Simmons leads T.J. Moore Lumber Yard and is very active in Del Rio’s Rotary Club.
The Trailblazer Award went to F.O.B.—Finding Our Brothers & Sisters for its work addressing veteran homelessness and mental health challenges, including breaking ground on three tiny homes for veterans with a $1 million grant, coordinated by Congressman Tony Gonzales.
According to Adrian Bitela, the group’s president, F.O.B. expects a ribbon-cutting for one of the state’s first tiny home communities for homeless veterans in the next 60 days.
The Saddle Up for Success Award was presented to Shane Souba of Shane’s Whiskey and Bourbon House for his contributions to business growth and community engagement in Del Rio. Souba has supported numerous efforts in the community, with a specific focus on helping revitalize South Main Street.
The Frontier Award was awarded to Carlos Faz, owner of Ocho Dos Dos Restaurant and Bar, for his innovation and impact in the local hospitality industry. Faz said he and his team have worked hard bringing big city dining and culinary experiences to Del Rio. “I’m grateful to have a creative team executing our vision,” he said.
The Lasso of Excellence Award, recognizing a business with 50 years of service to Del Rio and strong support for the community and Laughlin Air Force Base, was presented to Roberts Jewelers for its lasting contributions.
Jeanne Slover, owner of Roberts, has spearheaded efforts at
Laughlin as well as the local community, including being a key member to helping start the Loaves and Fishes Food Bank and many more efforts.
The Best of the West President’s Award was given to Courtney Dennis of The Bank and Trust for her dedication to the Leadership Del Rio Program, her attention to detail and her commitment to excellence, marking 14 years of impact through the program. Dennis’ Leadership Del Rio Program has produced nearly 300 graduates with a wider perspective on the community.
The chamber leadership also took the opportunity to recognize several people and organizations in the community that had been highlighted on regional or national levels. Regional and national awards were:
The US Youth Soccer National Award for Girls Recreation Coach of the Year was awarded to Silvia Ojeda-Robles, recognized for her outstanding contributions to youth soccer and her impact on young athletes.
The Best of Small Business Award, one of America’s most prestigious business honors, was presented to Anna Scheler of Capri Temporary Housing for her innovation, leadership and excellence, also earning her the distinguished Enterprising Women of the Year Award, which she will receive in Nashville later this month.
The “Best of” Ramada® by Wyndham Award was given to the Del Rio Ramada by Wyndham, managed by Polo Del Rio and family, in recognition of its commitment to exceptional customer service and high-quality guest experiences in 2024. Story about Ramada’s recognition can be read here.
The ceremony celebrated these honorees for their dedication, leadership and excellence, highlighting their significant contributions to Del Rio’s community and business landscape
After the ceremony, Del Rio native Irma Ruiz, now a nationally touring comic, performed an hour of comedy for the audience.
“This is always one of our favorite nights of the year,” said Blanca Larson, President and CEO of the Del Rio Chamber of Commerce. “Our team works hard to make it a magical evening as we celebrate our amazing community.”
The writer can be reached at JoelALangton@gmail.com .
