Texas Border Business
Texas Border Business
According to Mayor Norma Sepulveda, last week’s “This morning’s Coffee with the Mayor was a much‑needed breath of fresh air. With all the noise and negativity online lately, today filled my cup in more ways than one.” The monthly event, held at the Harlingen Community Center and hosted by Sepulveda “every month … at local businesses in our community”, brings together residents, instructors, business owners, and local leaders in an informal morning gathering.
Sepulveda remarked, “When you’re surrounded by people who truly love the City of Harlingen and want to see it thrive, you feel it.” During this session, “our incredible instructors were there giving insight into their classes. There were giveaways, laughs, and a strong sense of community,” she added.
The event also highlighted contributions from Healthy Harlingen Chair Jessica, who “shared more about the mission and brought some goodies too.” Southern Rose Coffee served as the event’s beverage partner, and Sepulveda noted, “On. Point. I tried an Almond Joy latte, and what happened next gave me chills.”
This moment carried deep personal meaning for the mayor. “That was my mom’s favorite candy… yesterday marked 5 years since she passed. … When they suggested I try that drink, it felt like she was nudging me, like she was saying, I’m here, and it’s okay. They didn’t know. But I knew. And I’m grateful.”
Sepulveda was moved further when “the Southern Rose team didn’t just serve the coffee—they joined the spin class when we wrapped up! That’s Harlingen, y’all. Show up, lift each other up, and break a sweat doing it.”
Facebook reflections from attendees add depth to the mayor’s sentiments:
• Ruben Garcia: “This was such a great turnout! Southern Rose Coffee is blessed to be part of a great, growing city with strong leadership. And our daughter had the biggest smile, knowing we served the mayor today.”
• Juju Stringfield: “It was a fabulous and uplifting event, and you, Mayor, received a whisper from Heaven.”
Research indicates that “Coffee with the Mayor” has been a recurring monthly event since at least early 2025, with the county’s Cameron County Pct. 4 Events calendar featuring a session on January 14, 2025. Additionally, the Harlingen Facebook page promoted a June 25 session, confirming its ongoing scheduling.
Mayor Sepulveda’s consistent hosting of these gatherings highlights her commitment to community engagement. She emphasized her gratitude and determination to continue the series: “Feeling grateful. And feeling ready to keep pushing forward. Hope to see you at a class soon!”
