Smokin’ on the Rio:
Feb. 7 and 8
Each February, Smokin’ on the Rio brings together BBQ enthusiasts, competitors, and the community for one of the largest sanctioned BBQ cook-offs in Texas. But beyond the smoky grills and fierce competition, the event is about something much bigger—supporting youth agricultural projects in the Rio Grande Valley.
This year, Team TRB proudly joined the effort, volunteering their time and energy to ensure a seamless and successful event. From assisting with plate presentation and judging logistics to welcoming guests and managing event operations, TRB volunteers played a crucial role in supporting the cook-off’s mission. Volunteers like Andrea Guerra, Elias Trevino, and Laura Gaitan dedicated their time to the judging process, ensuring fairness and organization. Others, like Sidney Gaona and Rita Garcia, helped with hospitality, making sure attendees had a top-notch experience at the event and concert.
Since its founding in 2004, Smokin’ on the Rio has raised over $1.7 million for student projects at the Rio Grande Valley Livestock Show’s Sale of Champions. This year, the event introduced a new youth competition, allowing high school teams to compete alongside national contenders, furthering its commitment to developing young leaders in agriculture.
For Team TRB, service goes beyond the workplace—it’s about showing up for the communities we call home. Smokin’ on the Rio is just one example of how Team TRB volunteers made a meaningful impact across Texas in February.
Way to go RGV Team TRB!
McAllen Day in Austin
Feb. 15 – 17
Team TRB Joins McAllen Day in Austin
This February, three McAllen entities joined forces to send a delegation to the Texas Capitol to advocate for the City of McAllen and the greater Rio Grande Valley. “McAllen Day in Austin” brought together city leaders, business stakeholders, and community partners to ensure our region’s priorities are heard and to strengthen connections with state policymakers. The coalition was a joint effort organized by the McAllen Chamber of Commerce, the McAllen Economic Development Corporation, and the City of McAllen.
This year, Team TRB joined the delegation, supporting the effort by sponsoring key networking events and participating in discussions that addressed critical legislative issues affecting McAllen and the Valley. TRB’s presence helped amplify the voices of local leaders as they engaged with state officials on priorities such as business development, workforce training, infrastructure, and public services.
A highlight of the weekend included a welcome breakfast featuring McAllen’s city leadership and targeted discussions on education, healthcare, transportation, and energy. In the afternoon, the delegation was recognized with House and Senate Resolution presentations, reinforcing McAllen’s role in shaping statewide policy.
Team TRB also brought together key decision-makers, hosting an evening networking reception at our downtown Austin branch—creating a space for McAllen leaders and legislators to continue the conversation in a collaborative setting.
For Team TRB, supporting initiatives like McAllen Day isn’t just about being present; it’s about taking an active role in moving our communities forward. Thank you to everyone who participated in this year’s event and helped represent our region at the state level!
Way to go, Team TRB!
Team TRB Kicks Off Charro Days in Brownsville
Feb. 27-Mar 1
Each year, Charro Days brings the Brownsville and Matamoros communities together in a celebration of culture, heritage, and unity. Since 1938, this annual tradition has showcased the region’s deep bicultural roots with parades, music, and iconic events that honor the shared history of the Rio Grande Valley.
This year, Team TRB once again played a central role by hosting the official Charro Days Kick-Off Celebration. What started at our Brownsville branch has grown so much that it now takes place at the convention center—welcoming community members, local leaders, and festival organizers. TRB employees helped set the stage for the week’s festivities, handing out promotional items and representing the bank with strong participation at the event.
Beyond the kick-off, Charro Days features some of the most anticipated traditions of the year, including the Hands Across the Border ceremony—a powerful symbol of friendship between Brownsville and Matamoros—and the Grand International Parade, where dazzling floats, music, and equestrian performances bring the streets to life. The celebration also includes the Sombrero Festival, a three-day event filled with Tejano, Conjunto, Norteno, Country, and Rock performances, plus great food and fun for the whole community.
Charro Days continues to be a tribute to the resilience and shared identity of the region. If you missed it this year, mark your calendar for next spring and experience it for yourself! Events like this highlight the power of community, and Team TRB is always ready to show up and support the traditions that make the Rio Grande Valley special.
Way to go, Brownsville Team TRB!
