On a Wednesday afternoon at the Ramada , members of the community gathered with the Del Rio Chamber of Commerce for an event focused on civic engagement, networking, and public awareness. The gathering was led by Blanca Larson, Director of the Del Rio Chamber of Commerce.

The event brought together a number of individuals running for city and county offices, offering them an opportunity to introduce themselves to the public.

“We have so many people running, which is great,” Larson said. “I’m glad to see all these individuals stepping up to serve. We want the public to know who they are, why they’re running, and what their purpose and agenda are.”

Each candidate was given two to three minutes to address attendees, allowing voters to gain insight into the growing number of candidates seeking office.

Larson noted that the event also aligned with one of the Chamber’s core services its monthly membership meetings.

“We have a different speaker every month,” she explained. “The main thing is to make sure the community knows what’s going on in different sectors, whether it’s the hospital, the city, or the county. We also advocate for what our community needs, and that’s how we learn and share information.”

Beyond civic engagement, the event emphasized the importance of business networking. Larson highlighted how gatherings like this allow local businesses to connect, share services, and promote specials.

“Networking is so important,” she said. “You meet different people and expand your network. Even meeting three, four, or five new people can lead to more connections. It’s a great opportunity to bring your cards, share your information, and introduce yourself.”

Larson also invited the public to attend an upcoming mixer from 5 to 7 p.m. celebrating the opening of a new Jeep dealership. Representatives from Laughlin Air Force Base are expected to attend.

For more information on Chamber membership or upcoming events, residents can contact the Del Rio Chamber of Commerce at 830-775-3551 or visit DRchamber.com or ExploreDelRioTX.com

By Texas Times Staff

At a new office in the heart of Del Rio, Anna Moreno, Director of CASA of Val Verde County, is focused on one mission above all else: making sure vulnerable children have a voice when they need it most.

CASA of Val Verde County recently relocated to the Tony Faz Annex Center, now operating out of 315 East Chapoy Street, marking a new chapter for the organization’s growing presence in the community.

“This new space gives us the opportunity to better serve our children and welcome the community into our mission,” Moreno said.

Building a Program
From the Ground Up

While CASA is part of a national network, its local presence is still young. Moreno explained the organization began laying its foundation in late 2023, officially launching services in 2025 after completing required approvals.

“Programs like this take time to establish,” she said. “But for the past year, we’ve officially been providing services to children here in Val Verde County.”

Advocating for
Children in Foster Care

CASA which stands for Court Appointed Special Advocates serves children who have been removed from their homes due to abuse or neglect.

“Our volunteers are the voice of the child in court,” Moreno said. “They work closely with the children, families, courts, CPS contractors, and service providers to make sure each child’s best interest is always represented.”

Volunteer advocates are trained community members who are sworn in by the court and assigned cases. They monitor children’s placements, education, medical needs, and overall well-being  whether the child is placed with relatives or in foster care.

“I always say our advocates are the eyes and ears of the court,” Moreno added. “But most importantly, they are the voice of the child.”

Volunteer Training and Community Involvement

CASA of Val Verde County is now recruiting its fourth volunteer cohort. An in-person information session will be held:

Thursday, February 17
6:00 PM
Tony Faz Annex Center,
315 E. Chapoy Street

The full volunteer training begins March 3 and runs through March, with volunteers sworn in by early April  just in time for Child Abuse Awareness Month.

“We’re excited to grow our team and serve more children in our community,” Moreno said.

A Celebrated Grand Welcome

The organization’s new location was recently introduced to the community during a Del Rio Chamber of Commerce mixer, drawing a strong turnout and support from local businesses.

Sponsors included Lou’s Wood Fire, Chick-fil-A, Texas Roadhouse, Walmart, and several other local partners.

“It was the perfect way to introduce our new home,” Moreno said. “There was networking, conversation, games, and most importantly, awareness of our mission.”

How to Get Involved

CASA of Val Verde County is open Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. While staff members are often in court or attending visitations, appointments can be arranged by phone or email.

 830-313-7007
 www.casaofvalverde.org
Facebook: CASA of Val Verde County
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By Texas Times Staff
Del Rio, Texas 
Local entrepreneurs and small business owners gathered this week at the Spark Lab Business Incubator for an afternoon of training, resources, and hands-on support aimed at strengthening Del Rio’s small business community.
The event was hosted by the City of Del Rio’s Business Incubator and featured guest presenters from workforce and higher education partners, offering guidance on startup development, workforce training, and access to state grant opportunities.
Jorge Garza, Business Incubator Manager for the City of Del Rio, said the event marked another step forward in supporting local economic growth.
“This was good for small business, good for Del Rio, and full of knowledge and help for those who attended,” Garza said. “We’re very happy we were able to make this event happen, and we hope to bring many more like it in the near future.”
The Spark Lab Business Incubator, located at 101 West Ogden Street in the former transportation building, serves as a launchpad for startups and entrepreneurs. According to Garza, the incubator’s primary mission is to help individuals with business ideas turn them into successful ventures.
“Our goal is to create startups or help existing ones grow,” Garza explained. “Anyone with an idea who wants to start a business can come here and work with us. This space is designed to help you succeed.”
The facility offers shared workspaces, high-speed internet, more than a dozen computers, printing services, presentation areas, and a lounge space all available to the community at no cost. Garza noted that the incubator is especially helpful for entrepreneurs who may not have a quiet or professional environment at home.
“This is a place where people can focus,” he said. “You can work, meet with clients, or even prepare presentations in a professional setting.”
During the event, participants received training from representatives of workforce and educational institutions, including guidance on how to access state grants and business incentives. These resources, Garza said, can be vital for small and local businesses looking to grow.
“We brought in people from outside the community to show business owners how to access grants and incentives they may not even know exist,” he said. “This kind of information can make a real difference.”
The Spark Lab is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., but Garza emphasized that the space can also be made available during evenings or weekends if needed.
“If someone needs the space after hours or on the weekend, we can make it happen,” Garza said. “We’re here to help.”
Community members interested in using the Spark Lab or learning more about its services can contact Garza directly at 830-309-7065 by call or text.
Garza also stressed that the Spark Lab is a free resource, made possible through the support of the City of Del Rio and its economic development leadership.
“This space is completely free for the community,” he said. “If you have an idea, bring it here. If you need help, we’ll help you or we’ll find someone who can. Everything is possible.”
Workforce development and small business growth were front and center at the recent Spark Lab event in Del Rio, where Texas Workforce Commission representative Kylie Justis shared valuable resources aimed at strengthening the local and rural workforce.
Justis emphasized the importance of workforce training as a key driver of economic development, particularly in rural communities like Del Rio. She noted that a better-trained workforce not only benefits employees by expanding their skills and career opportunities, but also makes communities more attractive to businesses considering relocation or expansion.
“Having a skilled workforce helps the entire city,” Justis said. “When businesses look at coming to a community, they want to know there’s a workforce ready to meet their needs.”
During her presentation, Justis highlighted several Texas Workforce Commission programs designed to support small businesses, including the Skills for Small Business Program, Skills for Success, and the Skills Development Fund. Many of these programs are grant-funded, meaning eligible employers and workers may receive training at little to no cost.
Her core message was simple but powerful: small businesses should not try to do everything on their own.
“There are so many resources available,” Justis explained. “As a small business, trying to grow by yourself just pulling yourself up by your bootstraps is extremely difficult. These programs exist to help, but businesses have to reach out and use them.”
Justis acknowledged that navigating state systems and online resources can feel overwhelming, especially for mom-and-pop businesses. She stressed that Texas Workforce Commission staff are available to guide business owners through the process, connect them with training opportunities, and introduce options such as apprenticeship and internship programs that many may not realize exist.
Another key point addressed was outreach. According to Justis, building trust within communities and spreading information through word of mouth are essential to reaching small employers and workers who need training support.
“Everybody needs training,” she said. “It’s not just large corporations. Leadership skills, software training like Word or Excel, and other workforce skills help people grow professionally and personally.”
For local businesses and individuals seeking assistance, Justis encouraged direct contact with the Texas Workforce Commission. She recommends emailing [email protected] or calling her directly at 361-424-3347 for guidance on available programs and resources.
Small businesses, she added, play a critical role in the state’s economy.
“Mom-and-pop businesses carry the Texas economy on their backs,” Justis said. “We want to make sure they don’t have to do everything alone.”

By Texas Times Staff

Standing at the heart of Precinct 4, surrounded by projects that now define the community, Gustavo “Gus” Flores didn’t hesitate when asked why he’s seeking another term as Val Verde County Commissioner.
“Vision. Good health. And a positive drive to keep moving forward,” Flores said. “Everywhere you look, you see growth. And that progress didn’t happen by accident.”
For Flores, service has never been theoretical. It’s visible  in concrete, lights, grass, and opportunity.

A Community Built by Follow-Through

One of the clearest examples of that record is the Precinct 4 Community Center. Over the years, Flores has overseen three major expansions, added a park, playground equipment, exercise areas, and lighting all completed without loans.
“That park was built by our road and bridge crew, using taxpayer money the right way,” Flores said. “I’ve never misspent a dollar. Every cent has gone back to the people.”
In total, Flores points to:

•    $7 million invested in the Frontera Road project
•    Over $2 million in five water extensions
•    More than $1.5 million in community center expansions
•    $400,000 invested in the park all paid in full

Turning Assets Into Revenue

Just steps away from the community center sit the USDA Quarantine Pens — one of the county’s few direct revenue generators, bringing in nearly $40,000 annually.
Flores explained how a strategic land swap with the Texas Department of Agriculture allowed the county to take full ownership of the facility.

“We bought land for $185,000, swapped it for the infrastructure, and leased the pens to the federal government,” Flores said. “Over the years, that’s generated more than $400,000. Today, Val Verde County owns those pens 100%, and we’re the only open USDA facility in Texas.”

Infrastructure With a Purpose

Flores also highlighted the Cienegas Road project  a critical artery serving the industrial park.
“That road is the backbone of our industrial growth,” he said. “Once it’s completed, it’s going to attract businesses, create jobs, and grow our tax base.”

Investing in Youth and the Future

Looking ahead, Flores says nearly $1 million rolled over from last year is being invested in new baseball and soccer fields on 23 acres off Johnson Boulevard.
“These fields are for our kids,” he said. “We’re coordinating with the county engineer, and by late 2026, they’ll be ready for our local leagues.”


Sixteen Years of Trust


If elected to a fifth term, Flores says the meaning is simple.
“The people know I work,” he said. “They’ve seen it for almost 16 years. I show up  at food distributions, with road crews, in the neighborhoods. I don’t make promises I can’t keep.”
Asked if the drive is still there, Flores smiled.
“Oh yeah,” he said. “It’s still there. Still kicking.”
For Flores, the mission remains unchanged: work hard, spend wisely, and deliver results — one project at a time.
​

By: TEXAS TIMES STAFF
DEL RIO, Texas  As voters prepare to head to the polls, Val Verde County Justice of the Peace Precinct 2 J. Randel Dissler is asking residents for their support as he seeks election to the office he was previously appointed to fill.
Dissler, a longtime public servant with more than two decades of federal experience, shared his background, accomplishments, and goals during a recent interview, emphasizing the importance of voter participation in local elections.
Dissler began his career with the U.S. Border Patrol in 1988, serving in multiple sectors including El Centro and San Diego, California, before returning to the Del Rio sector. Over the course of his career, he held several leadership roles, including canine handler, canine instructor, and later field operations supervisor, overseeing supervisors and agents. He retired from federal service after more than 20 years.
Following his retirement, Dissler remained active in the community. He and his family have been longtime members of the Del Rio Chamber of Commerce and have participated in the Chamber’s Military Affairs Committee for nearly a decade. Through that involvement, Dissler has supported events and volunteer efforts benefiting military personnel stationed in the region.
Appointed to the Justice of the Peace Precinct 2 position, Dissler said he quickly learned the broad scope of responsibilities handled by justice courts in Texas. He made training and certification a priority, ensuring he was fully qualified to conduct magistrations, inquests, and other duties required of the office.
“One of my first goals was to get the necessary training and start addressing the backlog of cases,” Dissler said. “We’ve made significant progress, and we’re continuing to work through those cases to ensure timely resolutions.”
During his time in office, Dissler worked with the Val Verde County Commissioners Court to modernize office operations by upgrading equipment and improving digital correspondence, changes he said have increased efficiency for staff and improved service to the public.
Looking ahead, Dissler said his goals include continued professional training, further reduction of case backlogs, and maintaining a courtroom environment that is fair, respectful, and efficient.
“People don’t usually come to court during happy moments in their lives,” he said. “Our responsibility is to treat everyone fairly, impartially, and with respect, while following the rule of law.”
In addition to his judicial duties, Dissler remains active in community service. He recently volunteered at the annual Run for Hope event held along Dolan Creek Road, which raises funds for childhood cancer research. The event draws participants from across the region and continues to grow each year.
As Election Day approaches, Dissler said he hopes voters will take the time to learn about local candidates and participate in the democratic process.
“I never set out with political ambitions,” Dissler said. “I was appointed, I enjoy the work, and I believe I’m making a positive difference. I’m asking voters for their support so I can continue serving the people of Precinct 2.”
Voters are encouraged to participate in early voting or cast their ballots on Election Day to help shape local leadership in Val Verde County.
​

By Javier Martinez Jr., Texas Times
DEL RIO, TEXAS Elegance, emotion, and celebration filled the evening as Jazel Sanchez was officially crowned Miss Del Rio for the 2026–2027 term. Surrounded by a large and supportive crowd, the moment marked the beginning of a new chapter not only for Sanchez, but for the Del Rio community she now represents.
Fresh from a night of excitement and heartfelt applause, Jazel Sanchez reflected on the inspiration that led her to step onto the Miss Del Rio stage.
“What inspired me to run was my love for the community,” Sanchez shared. “I have so many strong women in my life who inspired me, who pushed me to my limits, and who I want to represent. I truly believe in how this platform can be used to uplift others and create real change.”
The journey to the crown required months of preparation training, practice, confidence-building, and personal growth. Like many contestants, Sanchez worked diligently on every detail, from her presentation to her walk, all leading up to the defining moment on stage. But it wasn’t until the following day, after the excitement settled, that the reality truly sank in.
“I honestly felt a little overwhelmed but in the best way,” she said. “I feel so honored and so grateful. I have so many people supporting me my sponsors, my family, and the community. I just feel incredibly blessed and thankful for everyone who believes in me.”
One of the standout moments of the evening came during the on-stage question portion, particularly when Sanchez addressed the role of social media and self-image. Her response resonated deeply with the audience and judges alike, earning praise for its sincerity and strength.
“That answer really came from my heart,” Sanchez explained. “Authenticity means choosing kindness over comparison. I believe women should own their own story. I want to remind young people, especially young women in our community, that their real selves are enough. Confidence truly grows when we embrace who we really are.”
As she looks ahead to her year-long reign, Jazel Sanchez is filled with anticipation and purpose. With numerous community events, presentations, and appearances on the horizon, she sees her role as an opportunity for growth not only for herself, but for those she hopes to inspire.
“Si Dios quiere, I’m feeling so excited,” she said. “I can’t wait to be more involved in the community and just show up. I want to grow personally and as a leader, and I truly want to make a real difference.”
That difference, many believe, will be felt most strongly by the younger generation. As Miss Del Rio, Jazel Sanchez will serve as a visible role model someone young girls can look up to and say, “One day, I want to be Miss Del Rio too.”
With grace, authenticity, and a heart rooted in service, Jazel Sanchez begins her reign poised to leave a lasting impact on Del Rio. As her journey unfolds over the coming year, the community looks forward to watching her lead, inspire, and represent Del Rio with pride.
​

By Texas Times Staff
DEL RIO, TEXAS — It was an emotional and memorable evening as Evelyn Dominguez officially passed the crown to the newly named Miss Del Rio for the 2026–2027 term, closing a remarkable chapter in her own journey as Miss Del Rio. Standing poised and reflective, Dominguez looked back on a year defined by service, leadership, and personal growth.
“My time as Miss Del Rio was unforgettable,” Dominguez shared. “I did so many things, worked on so many projects, and met so many people. I truly don’t think it could have gone any better.”
Among the many highlights of her reign, one moment stood out above the rest: a visit to the Texas State Capitol. There, Dominguez participated in the signing of the Treaty of Friendship between the Miss Del Rio Pageant and its sister pageant, an experience she described as deeply meaningful.
“That moment really got to me,” she said. “Being there alongside State Repersentative Eddie Morales and his wife was unforgettable. It was such an honor to represent Del Rio and to carry the title while serving the community.”
Serving as Miss Del Rio comes with a full calendar of responsibilities, public appearances, and community events. For Dominguez, balancing those duties alongside academics and extracurricular activities required discipline and focus. In addition to her pageant role, she is a member of the Queen City Belles and an Early College High School student.
“I’ve always kept my priorities straight,” Dominguez explained. “School comes first. If there was ever an important event to attend, it was excused from my extracurricular activities. There were very few times when school conflicted, but when it did like my trip to the Capitol  carefully divided my time based on what was most important.”
Now a high school senior, Dominguez is turning her attention toward family, academics, and graduation. As an Early College student, she will earn her associate’s degree in business two weeks before receiving her high school diploma.
“That’s really my focus right now,” she said. “Graduation is coming up fast, and I’m working hard to finish strong.”
Looking ahead, Dominguez plans to continue her pageant journey while pursuing higher education. While her next pageant has yet to be decided, her academic path is clear: she intends to major in criminal justice.
“I definitely plan on continuing in pageants,” she said. “But most importantly, I’m going to college. Criminal justice is what I want to pursue.”
Her aspirations align closely with the mission of the International Good Neighbor Council, which emphasizes leadership development and empowerment among young women. Dominguez’s ability to balance pageantry, academics, and community service stands as a strong example of that mission in action.
As she reflected on her journey, Dominguez expressed gratitude to those who supported her along the way.
“In my farewell speech, I thanked God most of all,” she said. “When I entered the pageantry world, I didn’t realize how big of an impact it would have not just on me, but on others. I thank God for giving me the strength. I thank my family for supporting me through everything, and the International Good Neighbor Council for guiding me through the responsibility of wearing the crown.”
She also offered special thanks to Claudia Lopez, who, she noted, played a key role in helping her pursue several major projects during her reign.
As Evelyn Dominguez steps into the next chapter of her life, she leaves behind a legacy marked by dedication, humility, and leadership. With her sights set on higher education, continued service, and future pageant opportunities, her journey is far from over.
May her path forward be as impactful and inspiring as the year she spent wearing the crown.

​DEL RIO, TX — Rams Baseball Head Coach Coach Cardenas during the program’s first official media day of the season.
Coach Cardenas says the excitement surrounding Rams Baseball is undeniable.
“I love it,” Cardenas said. “The buzz around the program is incredible. These kids have put in the work all year, and now it’s finally being recognized. We’re getting our name out there, and I couldn’t be happier.”
As the Rams prepare for the upcoming season, Coach Cardenas highlighted key improvements made during the offseason  starting with physical development.
“First and foremost, we’re faster and stronger. We’ve been grinding in the weight room,” he explained. “We’ve also focused on controlling runners, playing solid defense, and keeping scores down. If we do that, we can compete with anybody.”
A major strength for the Rams this season appears to be pitching depth.
“On varsity alone, we have about 12 pitchers who can throw strikes,” Cardenas said. “Last year, throwing strikes was something we struggled with. This year, that’s been a priority — minimizing walks and giving our defense a chance.”
Coach Cardenas also addressed areas the team worked hard to improve mentally.
“Last season, when we got down in a game, we tended to wither mentally,” he said. “We’ve really focused on confidence fighting through tough innings, staying competitive, and learning how to finish games.”
One of the biggest changes to the Rams’ preparation comes from how pitchers are trained.
“We stopped doing bullpens in the bullpen,” Cardenas explained. “Now we throw live bullpens on the field. That pressure  having teammates watching and batters in the box  has made a huge difference. The kids are responding, and we’re seeing the results.”
With nine senior pitchers anchoring the rotation, Coach Cardenas says command and consistency will be the foundation of success.
“We’re not trying to overpower anyone. We’re trying to throw strikes, compete, and trust our defense.”
The media day also coincided with Coach Cardenas’ birthday, making the moment even more special.
When asked what he wished for this season, his answer was simple.
“I just want everyone to stay healthy and for us to compete,” he said.
The energy keeps rolling at Rams Baseball Media Day! I also caught up with varsity pitcher Wade “Lefty” Mitchell, and you can feel the confidence this young man brings to the mound.
🎯 What’s he most excited about this season?
👉 “First game on the mound. I’m very hyped. I can’t wait to pitch  it’s going to be fun.”
🎧 When it’s time to get locked in, Lefty says routine is everything:
🏃‍♂️ Warm-ups
🤸 Stretching
🎶 Music to focus
💪 Confidence over nerves
🧠⚾ “I don’t really get anxious on the mound. You’ve got to compete, be confident, and command the zone.”
📈 Big improvements from last season:
✔️ Stronger command
✔️ Increased velocity (from high 60s to high 70s/low 80s 👀)
✔️ Improved mechanics after battling through a minor injury
🎵 And when it’s game time…
🎧 Lefty’s hype music: “Man in the Box” by Alice in Chains 🤘🔥
(Old-school beats over new-school rap — respect! 😎)
The momentum keeps building at Rams Baseball Media Day, and We also caught up with varsity starting pitcher Aaron Sanchez, who’s coming into the season confident, focused, and ready to compete.
💬 Excited for the season?
👉 “Oh yeah, for sure.”
💪 Big offseason gains:
Aaron says one of the biggest improvements since his junior year has been velocity and strength.
🏋️‍♂️ +20 pounds of pure muscle
⚾ Velocity jump from 80–83 mph to touching 87 mph
🔥 “Everything’s gone up, everything’s going well. My body feels healthy, and hopefully we keep it that way.”
🎯 Getting locked in on the mound:
👉 “Just focus on the catcher. Don’t focus on anything else. Throwing a ball is like riding a bike — it comes naturally.”
❤️ His “WHY”:
When the pressure is on — full count, bases loaded — Aaron says his motivation comes from family.
🙏 “We sacrificed a lot when I was younger just so I could play baseball. That’s my why — remembering where we started and where we are now.”
🎧 Pregame vibes:
When it’s time to lock in…
🎶 Corridos
🔥 Favorites include Peso Pluma and Fuerza Regida
With leadership on the mound, improved strength, and a clear purpose, this Rams pitching staff is ready for a strong season ahead. 🔴⚪🔵⚾

By Texas Times Staff

DEL RIO, TX — Val Verde County Precinct 1 Commissioner Kerr Wardlaw says infrastructure improvements remained a top priority throughout the year, with multiple road projects completed despite budget limitations.
According to Wardlaw, one of the first major projects addressed was Rose Avenue, which he described as the worst road in the precinct when he took office. The road has since been fully repaved, along with Echo Cliffs at the end of Rose Avenue.
Additional work included reinforcing the edges of Pepper Lane, repairs on Scotland Road, and ongoing maintenance along Cocobolo Road, an area prone to recurring potholes due to unstable ground conditions.
“Our roads are what citizens see every day,” Wardlaw said. “That’s our infrastructure, and it’s critical we keep it maintained.”
Wardlaw explained that Precinct 1 maintains approximately 30 miles of county roads, with 29 miles paved. Budget constraints allow for roughly one major road project per year, noting that it cost approximately $54,000 to pave just 0.21 miles of roadway.
The only unpaved road in the precinct, Gordonize Road, sees minimal traffic and serves primarily agricultural land.
Wardlaw also provided an update on the new Precinct 1 warehouse, a project initiated by his predecessor his father Martin Wardlaw. The facility sits on 25 acres along the loop between Del Rio and Laughlin Air Force Base and includes a large warehouse and storage buildings. Final office construction is underway, with a ribbon cutting planned for 2026.
Looking ahead, Wardlaw confirmed that groundbreaking is imminent for major fairgrounds improvements, including a large event center with a gymnasium, kitchen facilities, roll-up doors, and expanded vendor space.
Improvements are also planned for the county park near the cemetery, where solar lighting will be installed to enhance safety while preserving the natural views.
“We’re focused on doing things the right way,” Wardlaw said. “Saving taxpayer dollars while improving quality of life.”
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