Maria Rizzo was born June 26, 1968, in El Paso, Texas.  She grew up in La Union and later married and moved to Midland, Texas.  Her mother was from Guadalajara, Jalisco and her father was from Torreon, Mexico.  

She married Charlie Rizzo in 2004, and they are blessed with a beautiful family. One son, Joshua; daughter, in-law Cassy; and two beautiful granddaughters, Olivia and Mikaela.  

At a young age, Maria followed in her father’s footsteps of being an entrepreneur. She was always taught and encouraged to have her own business by her father. She would make and sell different kinds of crafts. In addition, she ran a thrift store in Canutillo called Tiny Treasures.

Because her mother became ill, she returned to La Union to help take care of her mother and then her father. Being back, she was inspired to start Glitzy Sweet Shop which she operated for five years. Initially operating out of a small food truck, Glitzy Sweet Shop later expanded into a big shed.  Maria catered to the La Union community by offering a diverse selection of sweets, chicken wings, Frappuccino's, and flavored teas. She is loved by many of us. 

Maria loves living in La Union because it is a peaceful little town. She enjoys knowing the same people she has known since childhood.  Even though La Union is getting bigger, everyone still knows and looks out for each other.  She especially enjoys the memories of Mage’s store.  If anyone were to describe Maria, they would say that she is kind and always tries to help those in need. She always puts others first and is very generous towards others. Maria always tries to get involved in a variety of activities that benefit her family and  community.

Her favorite holiday is Christmas, because it is the birth of Jesus Christ. It is the most cheerful time of year, and people seem the happiest.  As a child, she spent most of her time playing on the street with her brothers until it got dark. She would visit the La Union baseball park to watch the baseball practices.  “Take your life one day at a time. Do not rush through life. Take your time and always try to remain at peace.  Always love, appreciate, and enjoy your family and friends" is Maria's advice to anyone.  She understands that her family comes first. “Remember to give time to family and elderly people. Realize their value now before they are gone.”  Her advice to young people is: "aim for your dreams and learn from your mistakes. Put God first in your life at all times. Focus, prioritize, and don’t be afraid to make mistakes and set goals for your lives."

Maria volunteers for the townsite community cleaning.  She has also volunteered by generously providing the Aggies with cool drinks to assist them in their construction of the walking trail in town. She provides clothing, warm blankets, and care packages to the homeless during the winter months. Maria is a blessing to many people.Maria has played a special role within her family.  She has always been the party planner for birthday celebrations and other events.  Her family refers to her as "the glue that holds the family together."  In closing, Maria said that La Union has always been her home and that she wants to thank everyone for their support and kindness. She wants to also thank La Union Helping Hands for all they do to make the community better.

Congratulations Maria you are very deserving of this honor!