Texas Border Business
By Roberto Hugo González
On September 27, 2023, members of McAllen and other cities, gathered to witness a momentous occasion as TuCasa Investments, Inc. held a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony for their new building. The event was not just about unveiling a physical structure; it was a celebration of community, partnership, and the realization of dreams for Affordable Homes of South Texas, Inc. (AHSTI) and TuCasa Investments.
The ceremony held a special significance with the honoring of two industry veterans, Paul R. Rodriguez, President and CEO of Valley Land Title Co., and Alonzo Cantu, President and CEO of Cantu Construction and Development Company. In a thoughtful gesture recognizing their sustained support and contributions, the board decided to name two conference rooms after each of them.
The presence of Lone Star National Bank added to the significance of the occasion, represented by Sonia Falcon. Demonstrating a commitment to community development, the bank graciously delivered a $5,000 check donation to AHSTI on behalf of Alonzo Cantu and provided refreshments and beverages for the attendees.
Taking over the podium, Mr. Paul Rodriguez expressed his heartfelt appreciation for the support he has received, especially acknowledging his wife, Myrna Rodriguez, his roommate of over 42 years. Reflecting on the journey of TuCasa Investments, Inc., Rodriguez highlighted the company’s evolution and its commitment to enhancing services for its clientele, addressing challenges such as insurance and Medicare.
Rodriguez commended Affordable Homes of South Texas Inc. for leveraging resources from the city, county, state, and federal levels and private foundations, underscoring the pivotal role of Bobby Calvillo, the Executive Director of AHSTI. He emphasized how their initiatives have made a significant impact not only in McAllen and South Texas but also in inspiring affordable housing solutions across the country.
Rodriguez’s speech conveyed a sense of pride and accomplishment in the work being done by AHSTI and TuCasa Investments. He highlighted the critical need for housing and how it is often taken for granted by those who have it, emphasizing the significance of lending a helping hand to those in need. He shared the news that Alonzo Cantu was absent because he was tied up on another meeting but assured that they both appreciate the gesture of naming the conference rooms after them, seeing it as a representation of the work of many contributors to the organization.
In his concluding remarks, Rodriguez stressed the collective effort behind the successes, attributing achievements to the staff and employees’ imagination and work ethic. He expressed gratitude towards Bobby Calvillo and his staff, thanking everyone present for sharing the significant moment.
The Ribbon Cutting Ceremony for TuCasa Investments, Inc. was a landmark event, marking not just the inauguration of a building but celebrating the community’s growth, collaboration, and the tireless efforts of individuals dedicated to making a difference. The recognition of Paul R. Rodriguez and Alonzo Cantu and the generous contribution by Lone Star National Bank characterized the spirit of community and mutual support. The journey of TuCasa Investments, Inc. and AHSTI serves as an inspiring story of impact, innovation, and the power of coming together for a common cause.
This reporter was invited by Bobby Calvillo seven years ago, in 2016 to write the story of the 40thAnniversary of Affordable Homes of South Texas. Here is the link: https://texasborderbusiness.com/affordable-homes-of-south-texas-celebrates-40th-anniversary/
