Texas Border Business
By Roberto Hugo González
The Bert Ogden Auto Group marked a milestone on July 24, 2025, with the grand opening of Mercedes-Benz of Harlingen, the company’s first and only Mercedes-Benz dealership. The event, held at 8522 W. Expressway 83, was not just a celebration of luxury automotive excellence—it was a tribute to community and faith.
CEO Natasha del Barrio opened the evening by sharing a personal story about the company’s principals, Bob and Janet Vackar. “This is our first and only Mercedes-Benz dealership—the pinnacle of luxury,” del Barrio said. “But it’s more than that. It’s a full-circle moment.” She recalled how, when the Vackars moved back to the Valley in 1983, Bob bought Janet a used Mercedes-Benz. “Bob says it was avocado green. Janet says it was baby poop green,” she joked, drawing laughter from the crowd. “I wanted to find that exact car and refurbish it—but Janet, you’ll be glad we couldn’t, because we’re pretty sure Bob would’ve made you drive it again.”
The evening emphasized gratitude and purpose. “We’re so proud to offer this facility to our team, our community, and our customers,” said del Barrio. “And we don’t hide our faith. We bless each of our dealerships and every person in them.”
Dr. Milton Gonzalez, a longtime friend of the Bert Ogden family, led the invocation. “Some companies exist simply to move product. But others, like Bert Ogden, exist to move people,” he said. Quoting Chick-fil-A founder S. Truett Cathy, he added, “We’re not in the chicken business—we’re in the people business. And I believe the same is true here.” His prayer invoked continued blessings over the Vackars and their team: “May their influence expand not just in business, but in compassion, wisdom, and legacy.”
The event included ceremonial ribbon cuttings with both the Harlingen Chamber of Commerce and the RGV Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, a symbolic gesture underscoring the dealership’s deep local roots.
Christian Corrales, Board Chairman of the Harlingen Chamber, praised the group’s investment. “You guys believe in community. You believe in people,” he said. “You’re going to elevate and cultivate a different way of doing business, not just in selling cars but in inspiring dreams.”
Cynthia Sakulensky, speaking on behalf of the RGV Hispanic Chamber, applauded the Vackars’ regional economic impact. “Over a thousand employees in 25 stores is incredible,” she said. “And your support of education—especially UTRGV and the new Vaqueros football program—is unbelievable.” She noted that Mr. Robert Vackar was awarded the Golden Eagle Award for these contributions.
The founders also addressed the crowd. Bob Vackar reflected on their journey: “It’s been a long road with the city of Harlingen. I remember when we first bought the Dodge store downtown—we went through floods, tough transitions—but we pushed through. We’re proud of what we’ve built, and we’re not done yet.”
Janet Vackar offered an emotional tribute to her husband and community. “This morning, I came around the corner, saw Bob in the kitchen, and told him, “Thank you so much. You’re a great businessman, a great grandfather, and a great leader. I’m so proud of you.” With her voice trembling, she added, “Bob and I feel so incredibly blessed to have the support of everyone in the Valley. We’ve been through so many tragedies, but they’ve made us stronger. You’ve helped me through everything.”
Michael Faul, General Manager of Mercedes-Benz of Harlingen, celebrated the team that brought the dealership to life. “Three years ago, this was a vision—a few blueprints and strategy sessions,” he said. “Today, we’re not just open. We’re setting the standard for what it means to represent Mercedes-Benz in the Valley.” Faul praised the team’s commitment: “To our frontline professionals, service techs, and marketers—thank you. You’ve built more than a business. You’ve built a brand.”
City leaders echoed the sentiment. Harlingen Mayor Norma Sepulveda commended the Vackars’ local investment. “You’ve become an economic engine for the entire region,” she said. “And the fact that you’ve set your sights on Harlingen means so much to me personally, and to our city as a whole. We can’t wait to see what you do next.”
The event’s agenda included live music, mingling, a cigar roller, and even a casino night—lighthearted elements that balanced the occasion. But at its core, the evening was a celebration of shared vision, enduring relationships, and a future built on purpose.
The Mercedes-Benz of Harlingen dealership is now open at 8522 W. Expressway 83 in Harlingen.
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