Rio Grande City honors Aminta Reyna Alaniz for 1,000th Bessie III trolley tour

Christian Salinas
16 minutes ago
2 min read

RIO GRANDE CITY, Texas - City leaders and community members gathered Tuesday to recognize longtime tour guide Aminta Reyna-Alaniz for completing her 1,000th historical trolley tour aboard the Bessie III, a milestone highlighting years of promoting the city’s history and culture.

The celebration was held March 3 and organized by the RGC Economic Development Corporation, and the City's Main Street Program.

Mayor Gilberto Falcon, Mayor Pro-Tem Ediel Barrera, city officials and staff joined residents in honoring Reyna-Alaniz for her role guiding visitors through the city’s historic landmarks.

During the ceremony, Reyna-Alaniz received a commemorative plaque from the city, a framed member resolution from state Sen. Judith Zaffirini and a congressional recognition from U.S. Rep. Henry Cuellar.

“For 1,000 tours, Aminta has been the welcoming face, the trusted guide and the passionate storyteller representing Rio Grande City with pride,” said RGC EDC Executive Dir. Melinda Gomez. “Each tour is more than a visit. It’s a chance to showcase who we are, what we’re building and why our city is full of hospitality and Rio Grande Valley charm.”

Reyna-Alaniz thanked attendees for their support and reflected on the community connections formed through the tours. “Thank you everyone from the bottom of my heart. I'm glad you joined me today,” she said.

City Manager Gilberto Millan congratulated Reyna Alaniz for her dedication to promoting the community.

“We’re very proud of you,” Millan said. “Having somebody that puts us on the map and gives us something to be proud of - excellent job.”

The Bessie III trolley tours highlight historic sites and cultural landmarks throughout Rio Grande City and are designed to share the area’s history with residents, students and visitors.

City leaders said they hope Reyna Alaniz will continue guiding tours and sharing the story of Rio Grande City for years to come.