My Energy (Andrew Lopez)

Friday, February 6, 2026

TAMACC E-Newsletter

Friday, February 6, 2026

Leadership Tejas Class III Applications Open

Attend the Zoom Orientation

Leadership Tejas invites emerging and established leaders from across Texas who are interested in strengthening their leadership skills and expanding their statewide impact.

The Texas Association of Mexican American Chambers of Commerce (TAMACC) is now accepting applications for Leadership Tejas Class III, the next cohort of its six-month Adventure Learning leadership program designed for professionals committed to growth, service, and leadership development.

Individuals interested in learning more about the program are encouraged to attend the upcoming virtual orientation session:

Leadership Tejas Orientation Zoom Call

Date: Tuesday, February 10, 2026

Time: 12:00 p.m. (Central Time)

Registration: https://us06web.zoom.us/.../register/fy7WgG8JThCzYZw3b-rG5Q

Leadership Tejas goes beyond traditional leadership training. Participants convene one weekend each month in different Texas cities, engaging in immersive, place-based learning experiences. These in-person sessions are complemented by virtual training between weekends to maintain continuity and momentum. The program emphasizes hands-on learning, exposure to Texas’s economic and civic landscape, and the development of practical leadership tools.

This session will provide an overview of the program, expectations, and application process, and will include time for questions.

Application Deadline: February 16, 2026 - https://www.leadershiptejas.org/

Individuals interested in learning more about the program are encouraged to attend the upcoming virtual orientation session.

TAMACC Launches the Inaugural Roy P. Benavidez Scholarship Luncheon

TAMACC is proud to announce a new event to its schedule this year. In partnership with the Roy P. Benavidez family and foundation, TAMACC and Leadership Tejas will host, for the first time, the Roy P. Benavidez Scholarship Luncheon.

If you are interested in attending, sponsoring a table, or helping underwrite the event, do not hesitate to contact the TAMACC office at president@tamacc.org or (512) 444-5727.

Downwind: An Opera Born from Nuclear Fallout

Before sunrise on July 16, 1945, the New Mexico desert became the epicenter of a new and terrifying era. The Trinity test—the world’s first nuclear explosion—changed the planet forever, without warning the tens of thousands of people living nearby.

In the years that followed, families across surrounding communities began to suffer mysterious and devastating health effects. They became known as the Downwinders—ordinary people living with the consequences of an extraordinary and closely guarded secret.

This episode explores Downwind, a world-premiere opera by student composers Michael Smith and Demian Galvan. After traveling to New Mexico to better understand the land and the legacy of Trinity, the composers bring these often-ignored stories to the stage. As Smith writes, “While the family in our opera is fictional, the reality that they face is not.”

Together, we examine the history, the harm, and the haunting beauty of a work that asks a powerful question: what does progress cost—and who is made to pay the price?

LISTEN OR DOWNLOAD HERE

TAMACC Supports Ciudad Acuña’s Running Las Vacas to Boost Cross-Border Tourism

Ciudad Acuña continues to shine as a vibrant destination for tourism and cross-border collaboration, with local officials highlighting ongoing efforts to promote the region’s attractions and safety.

One of the city’s signature events, Running Las Vacas, is set for March 20–22, drawing participants and visitors from across Texas. This annual celebration not only showcases the city’s culture and community but also reinforces Ciudad Acuña’s reputation as the safest border city in Mexico, with Coahuila consistently ranked among the country’s safest states.

To make the event more accessible, organizers will provide an hourly shuttle service from Del Rio to Acuña and back, featuring preferred seating for tourists arriving via shuttle. This year, the Governor of Coahuila is scheduled to attend, underscoring the event’s significance for the region.

City officials are encouraging supporters to help promote Running Las Vacas, sharing event details and multimedia content to expand awareness in Texas. “Growing visibility in our neighboring state is essential to the continued success of this unique event,” said local organizers.

Ciudad Acuña looks forward to welcoming guests this March for a memorable celebration of sport, culture, and cross-border community.

VIDEO

TAMACC | (512) 444-5727 | Website | Podcast | Calendar

Tuesday, February 3, 2026

TAMACC E-Newsletter

Tuesday, February 3, 2026

Leadership Tejas Invites Emerging and Established Leaders Who Want to Become Better Leaders

Austin, Texas — The Texas Association of Mexican American Chambers of Commerce (TAMACC) has opened applications for Leadership Tejas Class III, the next cohort of its six-month Adventure Learning leadership program aimed at developing emerging and established leaders from across the state.

Leadership Tejas is designed to go beyond traditional leadership training. The program convenes participants one weekend each month in different Texas cities, combining immersive, place-based learning with virtual trainings between sessions to maintain continuity and momentum. The format allows participants to engage directly with the communities, cultures, and economic forces shaping Texas while building practical leadership skills.

The program emphasizes hands-on learning and statewide connection. Participants gain access to practical leadership tools, a deeper understanding of Texas’s economic and civic landscape, and a robust network of leaders representing diverse regions and industries. The curriculum also includes experiential components intended to challenge participants and encourage personal and professional growth.

Leadership Tejas is open to individuals seeking to strengthen their leadership capacity and make a meaningful impact within their organizations and communities. Applications for Class III are now being accepted.

Those interested in learning more are encouraged to attend an upcoming virtual orientation session.

Leadership Tejas Orientation Zoom Call

Date: Tuesday, February 10, 2026

Time: 12:00 p.m. Central Time

Registration: https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/fy7WgG8JThCzYZw3b-rG5Q

Participants who register in advance will receive a confirmation email with meeting access details.

Leadership Tejas is part of a broader effort to cultivate purpose-driven leadership and strengthen Texas’s future through collaboration and civic engagement. Applications are now open for those ready to take the next step in their leadership journey. - www.LeadershipTejas.org

Texas State University and TAMACC Boost Small Business Growth Through LIFT Program

Austin, Texas — More than 300 small business leaders have completed Texas State University’s six-week Learning and Insights for Forward Traction (LIFT) accelerator, a program designed to strengthen marketing skills and support business growth. Developed by Texas State’s SCALEUP initiative, LIFT was delivered in collaboration with the Texas Association of Mexican American Chambers of Commerce (TAMACC) and community partners.

Results from the inaugural cohort show significant gains, with 98% of participants reporting active social media goal-setting and sharp increases in confidence and marketing knowledge. The first cohort included more than 350 business owners, primarily based in Texas, with participants from 24 other states.

Program leaders say LIFT equips entrepreneurs with practical, research-based tools to grow revenue, create jobs, and strengthen local economies. The program was supported by the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation, with future cohorts currently in development.

LISTEN OR DOWNLOAD HERE

Meet the JOC - Webinar Series

The Texas Facilities Commission Office of Business Opportunities invites Texas businesses to attend a virtual series to meet the Job Ordering Contracting (JOC) prime contractors working on $150 million in construction projects. Each live 30-minute session will highlight one prime contractor.

Learn about the Job Order Contract (JOC) program
Connect with the JOC prime contractors
Search for upcoming business Opportunities

More information about the JOC program is available on the Job Order Contracting page.

The virtual series will continue through February. For a full list of dates along with additional information, visit:

https://web.tfc.texas.gov/Home/Components/News/News/70/16#!/

Leadership Tejas Strengthens Cross-Border Ties During Final Session in Del Rio

In January, Leadership Tejas wrapped up its final session in Del Rio, Texas. As part of the program’s leadership and learning experience, the cohort crossed the border into Ciudad Acuña, Mexico, where they met with leaders of the Cámara de Comercio de Ciudad Acuña, along with representatives from tourism and economic development.

The meeting proved highly productive, establishing a strong foundation for Leadership Tejas and TAMACC to pursue a variety of collaborative exchanges.

TAMACC | (512) 444-5727 | Website | Podcast | Calendar

Friday, January 9, 2026

TAMACC E-Newsletter

Friday, January 9, 2026

In Loving Memory of Carlos T. Mendoza

On January 7, we lost a dear friend and a former President of TAMACC, Carlos T. Mendoza. Carlos will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. He played a key role in shaping TAMACC’s story, and when the organization needed him, he stepped up to lead with heart, integrity, and unwavering commitment.

Carlos’s family has shared that they are overwhelmed and grateful for the outpouring of love and support from the community, as well as for the many who have asked how they can help during this difficult time.

For those who wish to support the family, a memorial fund has been established to help with funeral expenses and to support his wife as the family navigates the road ahead. Any contribution, no matter the size, would mean the world to the family and would honor the generosity Carlos showed to so many throughout his life. GoFundMe

Celebration of Life Services

The Mendoza family invites you to join them in celebrating Carlos’s life with the following services:

Wednesday, January 28

St. Paul Catholic Church

10000 David Moore Drive, Austin, TX 78748

1:30–3:00 PM — Viewing (Grace Hall)
3:15–3:30 PM — Catholic War Veterans Presentation (Main Sanctuary)
3:30–4:00 PM — Rosary (Main Sanctuary)
4:30–5:30 PM — Mass (Main Sanctuary)
5:30–7:00 PM — Words of Remembrance (Main Sanctuary)

Thursday, January 29

Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery

1520 Harry Wurzbach Road, San Antonio, TX 78209

1:15 PM — Military Funeral Honors

All are welcome to attend.

On behalf of the Mendoza family, thank you for honoring Carlos. He was their hero, and he was a cherished friend to so many of us.

Your Next Leadership Chapter Starts with Leadership Tejas

If you’re ready to grow as a leader, expand your network, and make a lasting impact, Leadership Tejas is designed for you. Powered by TAMACC, this dynamic six-month Adventure Learning program brings together driven professionals from across Texas who are ready to lead with purpose.

Participants meet one weekend a month in cities across Texas, paired with virtual trainings between sessions to keep the momentum going and learning continuous. You’ll gain real-world leadership skills, build meaningful connections, and walk away empowered to lead in your business, community, and beyond.

If you’re ready to learn boldly, lead confidently, and elevate your influence, we encourage you to apply today.

The next step in your leadership journey starts with Leadership Tejas.

ABIC Names J.R. Gonzales a 2025 Top Impact Leader

J.R. Gonzales has been recognized as one of the Top 15 Impact Leaders of 2025 by the American Business Immigration Coalition (ABIC), honoring business leaders who advanced commonsense, bipartisan solutions to immigration and workforce challenges affecting industries across the nation

This national recognition highlights leaders who, throughout 2025, elevated the real-world impact of labor shortages and advocated for practical immigration policies that support economic growth, lower costs, and protect American jobs. The inaugural class of ABIC Impact Leaders represents a broad cross-section of business and chamber executives working together to strengthen the U.S. workforce.

They’ll Fight Over it When You’re Dead

“They’ll fight over it when you’re dead.” That bold line is more than a slogan; it is the driving philosophy behind Saddleback Leather, the globally recognized brand founded by Dave Munson.

Dave didn’t start with a factory or investors. He started in a dusty leather shop in Mexico, with a hand-drawn sketch, a leap of faith, and one ironclad rule: no breakable parts. His goal was simple but powerful, build something so rugged and so well-made that his kids would fight over it when he was gone.

Today, Saddleback Leather is known around the world for its 100-year warranty, old-world craftsmanship, and a fiercely loyal following that swears by every stitch.

DOWNLOAD OR LISTEN HERE

TAMACC | (512) 444-5727 | Website | Podcast | Calendar