PHARR, Texas - The South Texas Literacy Coalition Catrina Ball - Historias de la Vida - has been hailed as a great success.
The event marked the group’s 15th anniversary.
“The event was a testament to our belief that literacy lies at the core of all learning and is the cornerstone of a prosperous life,” said Dr. Ida Acuña-Garza, interim CEO of the South Texas Literacy Coalition.
The Catrina Ball was held to raise essential funds for STLC in order to continue its mission of strengthening literacy in the community.
Proceeds from the Historias de la Vida – Catrina Ball benefited both the South Texas Reading Initiative and Little Free Libraries project, providing expanded educational and learning opportunities and resources.
The event was held at the Pepe Salinas Memorial Event Center in Pharr.
Former Congressman Rubén Hinojosa was presented with the Literacy Champion Appreciation Award.
“Congressman Ruben Hinojosa is a visionary whose early meetings during HESTEC 2007 laid the groundwork for STLC,” Acuña-Garza said.
Pharr Memorial Library was honored with the Community Literacy Champion Award.
“We wanted to spotlight Pharr Memorial Library Director Adolfo Garcia for his above and beyond dedication to literacy,” Acuña-Garza said.
STLC not only wanted to honor literacy champions but also showcase the rich cultural tapestry of South Texas.
“In an evening that intertwined literacy advocacy with cultural celebration, attendees were treated to the stellar performances of UTRGV’s Mariachi Aztlan and the Ballet Folklorico, which added a vibrant local flavor to the festivities,” Acuña-Garza said.
“The highlight was a captivating reading of Walt Disney’s ‘Ferdinand the Bull’ by Dr. Dahlia Guerra, accompanied by the exquisite violin play of Dr. Diana Seitz—moments that added to the narrative tapestry of the evening.”
Laura Hinojosa, STLC founding president, and Ricardo Contreras, a past STLC president, were praised for their "exemplary leadership and unwavering commitment.”
Adolfo Muñiz of Spectrum News 1 was also thanked for his work as emcee for the evening. State District Judge Fernando Mancias of the 93rd District Court gave insightful remarks.
The event’s co-chairs, Dr. Sylvia Sanchez-Garza and Rocio Villalobos were also thanked. As was STLC board members Kendra de La Garza (president), Maria Elena Ovalle (treasurer), Dr. Dahlia Guerra (president-elect), Nora Galvan, Karen Rodriguez, Karla Rodriguez, and Christina DeMara. Committee members Joshua Benavides and Alexis Lazos were also thanked.
Acuña-Garza thanked the the group’s regular sponsors. “Your support makes our mission possible,” she said.
“To everyone who attended and supported this special night, thank you. Your presence and generosity fuel our mission to empower South Texas through literacy.”
Acuña-Garza added: “Through community partnerships, we strive to elevate literacy, family involvement, and lifelong learning in the Region One Education Service area. We collect data, engage volunteers, and implement programs that speak to the literacy needs of our community.
“We invite you to continue this journey with us by supporting STLC. It’s an investment in a literate, empowered, and brighter future for all in South Texas.”
Editor's Note: Photo credit: South Texas Literacy Coalition.
About the South Texas Literacy Coalition
The South Texas Literacy Coalition website states:
We seek to impact the lives of families and children from our community through the transformation power of literacy. With over 35 member and organizations involved in the STLC, we are exponentially growing and striving to serve as a voice for the literacy community.
Our mission is to enhance and enrich the quality of life of our region with literacy outreach programming through community partnerships that lead to more literate communities.
We believe reading to be the foundation for all future learning. Our vision is to inspire a community of lifelong readers.
