Val Verde Regional Medical Center Bringing Cutting-Edge Da Vinci 5 Surgical System to Del Rio5/3/2026 DEL RIO, TX -- In a major step forward for healthcare in Del Rio and the surrounding border region, Val Verde Regional Medical Center (VVRMC) has announced it will soon add the advanced Da Vinci 5 robotic surgical system, bringing next-generation robotic-assisted surgery to the community.
Hospital leadership says the investment is aimed at expanding access to high quality specialty care locally while reducing the need for patients to travel outside the region for advanced surgical procedures. The Da Vinci 5 system, developed by Intuitive Surgical, is the latest evolution in robotic assisted surgery technology. It is designed to provide surgeons with enhanced precision, improved visualization, and greater control during minimally invasive procedures. Benefits to patients can include smaller incisions, reduced pain, shorter hospital stays, and faster recovery times. “As a rural hospital serving a border community, our responsibility is to ensure patients have access to the same level of care found in larger metropolitan areas,” said Jorge Jurado, CEO of Val Verde Regional Medical Center. “The addition of the da Vinci 5 system allows us to eliminate barriers to care, improve outcomes, and keep patients close to home.” Healthcare leaders say the addition is especially important for rural communities, where access to specialty physicians and surgical services can often be limited. By introducing robotic assisted surgery in Del Rio, VVRMC hopes to improve timely treatment options and reduce healthcare disparities. Several physicians at the medical center with prior robotic surgery experience are expected to utilize the new platform across multiple specialties, including:
“After 33 years practicing surgery in Del Rio, this technology represents an important step forward for our patients and the future of surgery in our community,” Manning said. Hospital officials say the robotic system is expected to arrive within the next six weeks, followed by installation and staff training. The first robotic-assisted procedures are anticipated to begin in late May or early June. Beyond patient care, VVRMC says the new system will also help recruit and retain physicians in high-demand specialties such as urology and women’s health. The addition of the da Vinci 5 system reflects the hospital’s broader mission to strengthen specialty care, improve patient outcomes, and ensure residents of Del Rio and Val Verde County can receive advanced treatment close to home. DEL RIO, TX — Community pride, friendly competition, and charitable giving came together this weekend as Leadership Del Rio hosted its Taste & Toss Cornhole Tournament at the historic Kress Building, with proceeds benefiting the Cancer Legacy Foundation at Val Verde Regional Medical Center.
The event drew residents from across the community for an afternoon of cornhole competition, food vendors, and fellowship, all while supporting a cause that impacts many local families. Representing Leadership Del Rio, Mrs. Melissa Sanchez said organizers wanted to create an event that was both enjoyable and meaningful. “We wanted to support something that truly matters and could help many people in Del Rio,” Sanchez said. “All of the profits raised today are going to the Cancer Legacy Foundation, and we are very proud of that.” The fundraiser also introduced a growing recreational sport to the local community cornhole which has seen rising popularity across Texas and beyond. Sanchez explained that members of the Leadership Del Rio class wanted to think outside the box when selecting a fundraiser. “We wanted to do something different,” she said. “Bringing in food vendors and hosting a cornhole tournament created an opportunity for people to come together, compete, and enjoy themselves for a good cause.” The event received support from Bordertown Baggers, whose sponsorship helped make the tournament possible. Beyond the fundraiser itself, the event also highlighted the mission of Leadership Del Rio, a program of the Del Rio Chamber of Commerce designed to cultivate current and future leaders throughout the community. Leadership Del Rio brings together individuals from diverse sectors such as healthcare, education, finance, and business to learn more about local institutions, network with one another, and develop ideas that strengthen Del Rio. Sanchez, who serves as a nursing instructor at Southwest Texas College, said the program has given her a new appreciation for her hometown. “I was born and raised in Del Rio, but since joining Leadership Del Rio, I’ve learned so much more about what this city has to offer,” she said. “It has been an amazing experience.” The organization is also investing in the next generation through Youth Leadership Del Rio, a companion program aimed at developing leadership skills among local students. “That is very important because they are the future leaders of this community,” Sanchez said. “We need to start young and grow our own leaders.” Residents interested in learning more about future Leadership Del Rio classes are encouraged to contact the Del Rio Chamber of Commerce. Saturday’s Taste & Toss event served as another reminder of what can be accomplished when Del Rio comes together blending service, leadership, and generosity into one successful community gathering. DEL RIO, TX — Community spirit was on full display Saturday morning at the San Felipe Springs Golf Course as CASA of Val Verde County hosted its successful “Golfing Fore A Cause” fundraiser, bringing together golfers, local businesses, sponsors, and supporters for a mission centered on helping children in foster care.
The event combined friendly competition, breakfast tacos, fellowship, and philanthropy, all while raising awareness and resources for one of Val Verde County’s most impactful nonprofit organizations. Representing CASA during the event was M.J. Ybarra, Vice Chair of the CASA Board, who explained that fundraising efforts like Saturday’s tournament are essential to sustaining the organization’s services. “As a nonprofit organization, a large portion of our funding comes through fundraising and grants,” Ybarra said. “These events help us continue serving the children who need us most.” Serving Every Foster Child in Val Verde County CASA, which stands for Court Appointed Special Advocates, provides trained volunteers who advocate on behalf of children involved in the foster care system. These advocates work closely with the courts and child welfare agencies to ensure each child’s needs are being met and that their best interests remain the priority. Ibarra proudly noted that CASA of Val Verde County is currently serving 100 percent of foster children in the county, a milestone that reflects the dedication of its staff, board, and volunteer advocates. “Our advocates are truly the boots on the ground,” she said. “They go through extensive training, are sworn in by the court, and become a voice for some of the most vulnerable children in our community.” A Hands-On Board with a Hands-On Mission Ybarra also highlighted the active role CASA’s local board plays in supporting the organization. She described the board as hands on leaders who go beyond monthly meetings to actively assist with fundraising, outreach, and strategic growth. CASA of Val Verde County is led by Executive Director Anna Moreno, along with a team committed to strengthening advocacy services for children and families throughout the region. Future plans for the organization include expanding services into neighboring Maverick County and Kinney County, a move that could bring CASA’s advocacy model to even more children in need. Del Rio Community Shows Its Support Saturday’s tournament was made possible through strong community participation, with teams, sponsors, and local businesses stepping up in support of CASA’s mission. “We’re thankful to every golfer and every sponsor who chose to be here,” Ybarra said. “This community always rallies together for important causes, and that means everything.” She also shared that CASA hopes to host additional fundraisers later this year, including a possible loteria night and night golf tournament. Building a Better Future The fundraiser served as a reminder that while golf was the game of the day, the real goal was investing in children who need guidance, advocacy, and hope. Through events like “Golfing Fore A Cause,” CASA of Val Verde County continues proving that when a community comes together, lives can truly be changed. IGNC PRESIDENT DISCUSSES CHALLENGES FACING FIESTA DE LA AMISTAD AND COMMUNITY EVENTSBy Texas Times Staff
DEL RIO — Longtime Del Rio tradition Fiesta de la Amistad, one of the community’s oldest and most recognized celebrations, is facing growing challenges as organizers work to keep the event alive in changing times. During a live interview on Town Talk Live with hosts Javier Martinez Jr. and Guillermo Garza, International Good Neighbor Council (IGNC) President Andrew Scarbo spoke openly about the difficulties of organizing large community events and the obstacles that organizations now face compared to past decades. Scarbo explained that the IGNC has hosted community events for many years, with Fiesta de la Amistad, now more than 60 years old, remaining the organization’s signature event. “Fiesta de la Amistad is one of the biggest events we have, and it’s probably one of the oldest traditions in Del Rio,” Scarbo said. “We want to keep that tradition going, but it’s getting harder every year to make these events happen.” Events Meant for the Community, Not Profit Scarbo emphasized that events like Fiesta were originally created to bring the community together, not to generate revenue. “These events are meant for the community. They’re meant to bring people to our town. They’re not meant to make money,” he said. “Back in the day, people worked together to make the event big. Now it seems like it’s harder to get everyone on the same page.” He noted that years ago, Fiesta de la Amistad attracted large crowds and even well-known entertainers, something he says has become more difficult due to costs, regulations, and limited resources. HOT Funds and Restrictions One topic discussed during the interview was the use of Hotel Occupancy Tax (HOT) funds, which are often misunderstood by the public. Scarbo explained that HOT funds received by the organization are restricted and can only be used for advertising and promotion, not for paying performers, renting equipment, or covering other event expenses. “People think we get all this money and can bring in big bands, but that’s not how it works,” Scarbo said. “Those funds are strictly for advertising. If we want big entertainment, we have to pay for it ourselves or find sponsors.” He added that without sufficient advertising funds, it becomes harder to attract visitors from outside the area, which affects attendance and vendor participation. Permits, Costs, and Fewer Sponsors Scarbo also pointed to increased permits, fees, and regulations as another factor making events more difficult to organize. “Back then you didn’t have to get a permit for everything,” he said. “Now vendors have to pay for permits, travel, supplies, and workers. That makes it more expensive, and that cost gets passed on to the public.” He also noted that businesses today are under more financial pressure, making sponsorship support harder to secure than in previous years. Need for Unity in the Community Another concern raised during the interview was the number of separate events being held throughout the year, which can divide attendance and sponsorship support. Scarbo said he believes the community could have larger and more successful celebrations if organizations worked together instead of hosting competing events. “If everybody came together, we could have huge events like you see in Eagle Pass or Acuña,” he said. “Those communities work together to make one big event. Here, sometimes everybody wants to do their own thing, and that makes it harder for everyone.” Parade Will Continue For Now Despite the challenges, Scarbo confirmed that Fiesta de la Amistad and the parade will continue this year, although organizers are carefully evaluating the future. “It’s going to happen one way or another,” he said. “We love this tradition, and we want the next generation to experience it. But it’s getting harder, and we need support from the city, the county, sponsors, and the community to keep it going.” Scarbo said IGNC remains committed to continuing the event as long as possible, but hopes to see stronger cooperation and community involvement moving forward. “We’re going to keep trying,” he said. New Rural Health Clinic Proposed for Precinct #2 Val Verde Regional Medical Center, County Officials Discuss Expanding Access to Care at Tony Faz CenterBy Texas Times Staff
DEL RIO, TX — Plans are moving forward that could soon bring expanded healthcare services to residents in Precinct #2, as Val Verde Regional Medical Center officials and county leaders begin early planning for a new rural health clinic at the Tony Faw Center. During a recent meeting and live interview, Val Verde Regional Medical Center Chief Executive Officer Jorge Jurado confirmed that discussions have begun with County Commissioner Juan Carlos Vazquez to explore the possibility of opening a primary care and behavioral health clinic inside the community center. Jurado said the idea came during a visit to the facility, where officials discussed ways to improve access to healthcare for residents living in the surrounding area. “During one of our visits to the Tony FaZ Center, Commissioner Vazquez and I talked about how beneficial it would be for the community if we could embed a rural health clinic within that building,” Jurado said. “We are now moving forward with planning discussions to bring primary care services, along with behavioral health support, to that location.” According to Jurado, the goal of the project is to make healthcare more accessible, particularly for elderly residents and families who may have difficulty traveling across town for routine appointments. Primary care services would allow patients to see a family medicine provider for regular checkups, illnesses, and ongoing medical needs, while behavioral health services would provide access to counseling and mental health support. “Taking care of your mental health is just as important as taking care of your physical health,” Jurado explained. “We want to create an integrated model where both services are available together, making it easier for patients to get the care they need close to home.” Hospital Expanding Services Despite Challenges Facing Rural Healthcare Jurado also spoke about the continued growth of Val Verde Regional Medical Center, noting that while many rural hospitals across the country are reducing services or closing departments, the local hospital is working to expand. Recent improvements have included the opening of new clinics, growth in surgical services, and continued investment in the hospital’s obstetrics department. “We are blessed to have a strong team and strong support from our community,” Jurado said. “Our goal is not just for the hospital to survive, but to thrive. This is a long-term plan to grow as our community grows.” He added that cooperation between local government, the hospital, the school district, Laughlin Air Force Base, and other partners has played a major role in the progress being made. “When the hospital thrives, the community thrives. Healthcare is the center of economic growth, and having good healthcare is essential for the future of Del Rio and Val Verde County.” Cancer Treatment Improvements Also in Development In addition to the proposed clinic, Jurado shared that the hospital is also working toward expanding cancer treatment services locally. Following a recent hospital foundation fundraiser, planning is underway to build a USP 800 clean room, a specialized facility that would allow chemotherapy medications to be prepared safely at the hospital. Currently, many cancer patients must travel to San Antonio or other cities for treatment. “There is nothing harder than fighting cancer and having to travel long distances for care,” Jurado said. “Our goal is to allow more patients to receive treatment here at home whenever possible.” Hospital officials are currently in discussions with medical partners in San Antonio, San Angelo, and Texas Tech University about a collaborative oncology program that could allow some treatments to be performed in Del Rio while patients continue working with their specialists. Commissioner Vazquez Supports Use of Tony Faz Center Mr. Juardo gave thanks to Commissioner Juan Carlos Vazquez, Precinct #2, for offering the Tony Faz Center as a potential location for the clinic, saying the facility could serve as a central point for expanded services in that area of the county. The project remains in the early planning stages, but leaders say the goal is clear — to provide more convenient, reliable, and modern healthcare options for the residents of Val Verde County. Further updates are expected as discussions continue Border Federal Credit Union Hosts 13th Annual Golf Tournament Scholarship Program, Community Partnerships Highlighted During Annual EventBy Texas Times Staff
DEL RIO, TX — Community members, sponsors, and local leaders gathered for the 13th Annual Border Federal Credit Union Golf Tournament, an event that continues to grow each year while supporting educational scholarships for area students. Among those present at the tournament was Del Rio City Councilwoman Carmen Gutierrez, who also serves as Board Chair for Border Federal Credit Union, and spoke about the importance of the event and the impact it has on the community. Gutierrez thanked the many sponsors and participants who helped make the tournament possible, noting that the event benefits the Border Federal Credit Union Foundation, which provides scholarships to graduating seniors. “I want to thank all of our sponsors for supporting Border Federal Credit Union’s 13th annual golf tournament,” Gutierrez said. “This event helps fund our scholarship program through the Border Federal Credit Union Foundation, which gives back to our community by helping graduating seniors continue their education.” The annual scholarship program is open to students across the region, and applications for the Class of 2026 are now available. Students interested in applying can contact their school counselor or visit the Border Federal Credit Union website or Facebook page to download the application. “We encourage all graduating seniors to apply,” Gutierrez said. “These scholarships are made possible thanks to the support of our sponsors and community partners.” Community Events Strengthen Cross-Border Partnership During the event, Gutierrez also spoke about the importance of community partnerships, including cooperation between Del Rio and Ciudad Acuña, as residents prepare for upcoming events such as the annual festivities in Acuña. She reminded residents that shuttle service is available from the international bridge, making travel easier for those attending events across the border. “Del Rio and Acuña have always been like one community,” Gutierrez said. “We have to continue building partnerships with our businesses, our citizens, and our neighbors across the border. When we work together, it benefits everyone.” Credit Union Continues Community Support Gutierrez also highlighted the role Border Federal Credit Union plays in supporting local organizations, schools, and community programs. She explained that the credit union is guided by a volunteer board of directors who serve out of dedication to the community. “We do this because we love this community,” she said. “Border Federal Credit Union has always been here to support local events, local students, and local families.” Residents were also reminded that Border Federal Credit Union offers financial services including tax preparation assistance, financial counseling, and community meeting space available to local organizations. With five branches serving the region, including locations in Del Rio and Eagle Pass, officials say the credit union remains committed to helping families succeed financially while continuing to give back through events like the annual golf tournament. Further information about scholarships, services, and upcoming events can be found at Border Federal Credit Union FACEBOOK . Emergency Management Director Monitors Storm Activity as Severe Weather Moves Through Del RioBy Texas Times Staff
DEL RIO, TX — As severe weather moved through the Del Rio area Tuesday, March 10, bringing heavy rain, wind, and hail, the Texas Times was present inside the City of Del Rio Emergency Operations Center, where Emergency Management Coordinator Amanda Aldaco closely monitored the storm and coordinated with local and regional officials to ensure public safety. Aldaco explained that during severe weather events, emergency management remains active around the clock, even outside normal working hours. “Whenever a storm is coming, whether it’s at six in the evening or midnight, I have to be watching it,” Aldaco said. “Even if I’m not physically in the Emergency Operations Center, I’m at home with my laptops open, my iPad, my phone, and the radio on, listening for any incidents until the storm is over.” During the storm, Aldaco monitored multiple radar systems, weather platforms, and emergency management applications covering all of Val Verde County, not just the City of Del Rio, to determine whether alerts or public notifications needed to be issued. She also confirmed that the City works in close communication with surrounding counties, including Maverick County, Kinney County, Uvalde County, Real County, and Edwards County, through a regional network organized by the Texas Division of Emergency Management. According to Aldaco, emergency management coordinators in the district meet regularly to discuss preparedness, resources, and response procedures, creating a strong working relationship between counties. “We all stay in contact with each other,” Aldaco said. “If a storm is moving through Del Rio, we notify Maverick or Kinney County, and they do the same for us. Even though I serve Del Rio, I also serve the State of Texas, and we help each other whenever needed.” During severe weather situations, Aldaco said communication between city and county leadership is essential. When an alert is received, information is shared with Del Rio Mayor Alvaro Arreola, Val Verde County Judge Lewis Owens, and Val Verde County Emergency Management Director Roland Garza, along with other key officials. Information is then coordinated with the City’s Public Information Officer to ensure that only clear and necessary details are released to the public. “It’s important to give citizens the information they need, but not too much information where it becomes confusing,” Aldaco said. “We focus on the most important details so people understand what they need to do.” Aldaco also addressed questions regarding emergency alerts sent to citizens’ phones through the City’s notification system. She explained that alerts are now sent mainly for warnings rather than watches, after some residents expressed concern about receiving too many messages in the past. “We adjusted the system so alerts are more specific to Del Rio and only when they are necessary,” she said. “These alerts are important because they can help save lives and give people time to prepare.” Residents who wish to sign up for emergency alerts through the City’s notification system can call 830-775-2313 for assistance. While the storm passed through the region, Aldaco continued monitoring conditions while staying in contact with local officials and emergency personnel. “I always try to make sure everyone is safe and prepared,” Aldaco said. “That’s the goal at the end of the day to make sure our community is ready and protected.” City officials emphasized that emergency operations remain ready at all times during severe weather and disaster situations, with coordination between city, county, and regional agencies playing a key role in protecting the residents of Del Rio and Val Verde County. Severe Storm Slams Del Rio; |
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