CBP officers escort a wanted person at a U.S. port of entry.USCBP Image
Texas Border Business
LAREDO, Texas – U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), officers at the Laredo Port of Entry detained one male wanted for child indecency with sexual contact.
“It’s unthinkable, but every year, thousands of children are victimized by crimes involving sexual abuse,” said Port Director Alberto Flores, Laredo Port of Entry. “Verification of wanted persons though law enforcement databases help aid law enforcement partners in their pursuit of these alleged criminals and bringing them to justice.”
The fugitive apprehension occurred on Friday, Apr. 7, at the Colombia-Solidarity Bridge. A CBP officer inspecting vehicle traffic arriving from Mexico, referred Jose Cruz Contreras, a 71-year-old male United States citizen, for a secondary inspection. After escorting the passenger to secondary, subsequent biometric verification through law enforcement databases confirmed that the subject had an outstanding felony warrant for indecency with a child/ sexual contact, issued by the Dallas County Sheriff’s Office out of Dallas, Texas. The warrant was confirmed to be active. The subject was turned over to the Webb County Sheriff’s Office to await criminal proceedings.
The National Crime Information Center (NCIC) is a centralized automated database designed to share information among law enforcement agencies including outstanding warrants for a wide range of offenses. Based on information from NCIC, CBP officers have made previous arrests of individuals wanted for homicide, escape, money laundering, robbery, narcotics distribution, sexual child abuse, fraud, larceny, and military desertion. Criminal charges are merely allegations. Defendants are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.
Agents assigned to the Fort Brown Border Patrol (FTB) station were involved in a high-speed flight from the Boca Chica checkpoint located on Highway 4, near Brownsville, Texas. USCBP Image
Texas Border Business
BROWNSVILLE, Texas – Agents assigned to the Fort Brown Border Patrol (FTB) station were involved in a high-speed flight from the Boca Chica checkpoint located on Highway 4, near Brownsville, Texas.
On April 7, FTB agents conducting immigration inspections on Highway 4 reported that a vehicle with three occupants fled at a high rate of speed away from the checkpoint. Agents pursued the fleeing vehicle along Highway 4, approaching the intersection of Boca Chica Blvd and Browne Road, when they discontinued pursuing the vehicle for public safety reasons. Agents disengaged and continued westbound on Boca Chica Blvd until they approached South Indiana Avenue where the fleeing vehicle was crashed in an accident with another vehicle.
Agents advised via radio of the accident and observed the driver and rear passenger bailing out of the vehicle. Agents approached and assessed the driver and passenger of the second vehicle and requested Emergency Medical Services on scene.
FTB agents apprehended the driver of the fleeing vehicle shortly after the accident and the Texas Department of Public Safety seized the car. Once medically cleared, the driver and front passenger, were transported to the FTB Station for processing. Upon further investigation, record checks revealed the driver of the fleeing vehicle was previously convicted for murder, possession of controlled substance and marijuana, and illegal reentry into the U.S.
“Agents immediately jumped into action to assess any possible injury with no hesitation. Extremely proud of our agents and their quick thinking.,” said Chief Patrol Agent Gloria I. Chavez.
This will mark the first KPOT location in South Texas that will soon open at 4400 N. 10th Street. Courtesy Image
Texas Border Business
McALLEN, Texas – Get ready for an exciting addition to McAllen’s dining scene – KPOT Korean BBQ! Killam Development is thrilled to announce the lease signing of this unique Korean spot, which will offer barbecue and hot pot. This will mark the first KPOT location in South Texas that will soon open at 4400 N. 10th Street.
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According to its website, KPOT is leading a cultural dining revolution. Born from four friends from different backgrounds who blended their cuisines over a shared table, KPOT is a unique, hands-on, all-you-can-eat experience that merges traditional Asian hot pot with Korean BBQ flavors. But it’s more than just a meal. KPOT is for both the food adventurers and the social eaters. It’s about tasting global spices and seasonings while feeling a sense of community. It is hot pot and Korean BBQ modernized with a full bar and nightlife atmosphere; but in the true spirit of those four friends, KPOT is mostly about gathering together for lively conversation over a feast of good food.
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“We are thrilled to welcome KPOT Korean BBQ & Hot Pot to McAllen and can’t wait for our community to experience the delicious flavors and unique dining experience they have to offer. KPOT’s presence will only add to the vibrancy and diversity of our city’s culinary scene. At Killam Development, we are committed to driving economic development in the region and we look forward to bringing more successful deals like this to the area in the future. As the leasing agent for this deal, I’m grateful to have played a part in making this happen.” said René A. Alcalá, Director of Business Development, RGV, Leasing / Sales.
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KPOT Korean BBQ is known for its Korean cuisine consisting of grilling meat, typically beef, pork, or chicken, that you prepare yourself at your table. The restaurant’s full bar and nightlife atmosphere will make it a perfect spot for social gatherings and events.
The Texas Senate passed Senate Bill 9 by Senator Brandon Creighton and joint-authored by Senator Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa which outlines a bill of rights for teachers and provides additional compensation. This bill will now head over to the House of Representatives for consideration. Image for illustration ppurposes
Texas Border Business
AUSTIN, Texas — The Texas Senate passed Senate Bill 9 by Senator Brandon Creighton and joint-authored by Senator Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa which outlines a bill of rights for teachers and provides additional compensation. This bill will now head over to the House of Representatives for consideration.
Senator Hinojosa released the following statement:
“I am a joint author of Senate Bill 9 because supporting our teachers continues to be a priority for me this session. With this legislation, we are standing up for teachers and providing them with additional compensation and benefits for their dedication to the education of our children. This payment will be in addition to the pay increase we authorized in 2019 with the passage of HB 3. The $1.625 billion that the Senate has committed to invest in this bill will provide a $2,000 to $6,000 payment for our teachers who stay in the classroom during the next school year. While I know that they deserve and need much more, my vote today is not to show my satisfaction with the proposed compensation, but rather a commitment to continue advocating for more funding and to show my support for the additional benefits this bill provides. On the Senate floor, I voted for Senator Morgan LaMantia’s floor amendment to increase the compensation to $10,000 but it did not have enough votes to get adopted. I will continue working with my legislative colleagues to fight for additional compensation and to get this bill to the Governor’s desk.”
Highlights of Senate Bill 9 as passed by the Texas Senate:
· Childcare for Teachers – Free Pre-K for children of classroom teachers.
· Across the Board Teacher Payment – $2,000 payment to all teachers and an additional $4,000 for teachers in small and rural districts.
· Performance Based Bonuses – Increased funding for the Teacher Incentive Allotment that provides bonuses up to $36,000 for high-performing educators.
· Re-Hiring Retired Teachers – Creates a grant program to reimburse school districts that employ retired teachers for the cost of their contribution amount to TRS.
· TEA Assistance to School Districts – TEA will assist school districts with implementing certain teacher programs including programs that encourage high school students or other members of the community in the area served by the district to become teachers, including available teacher apprenticeship programs.
· Study of Teacher Time – TEA will provide support to school districts to study how the district’s or school’s staff and student schedules, required noninstructional duties for classroom teachers, and professional development requirements for educators are affecting the amount of time classroom teachers work each week.
· Transparency In Schedules – Provides clarity and guardrails for any duties outside the classroom.
“Failing to replenish the SPR is a matter of national security and has paved the way for OPEC+ to manage the oil cycle undermining domestic producers and wasting a powerful non- monetary tool to fight inflation,” Congressman Gonzalez states in the letter. Image for illustration purposes
Texas Border Business
WASHINGTON, DC – Last week, Congressman Vicente Gonzalez (TX-34) sent a letter to President Joe Biden raising questions regarding the Administration’s promise to refill the over 180 million barrels of oil in the Strategic Petroleum Reserve (SPR).
“Failing to replenish the SPR is a matter of national security and has paved the way for OPEC+ to manage the oil cycle undermining domestic producers and wasting a powerful non- monetary tool to fight inflation,” Congressman Gonzalez states in the letter.
Texas A&M University has named Manuel “Manny” M. Vela as vice president and chief operating officer of its Higher Education Center at McAllen, effective May 15. Courtesy Image for illustration purposes. Bgd. googlemaps
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By Texas A&M University Division of Marketing & Communications
Texas A&M University has named Manuel “Manny” M. Vela as vice president and chief operating officer of its Higher Education Center at McAllen, effective May 15.
“Over the next five years, we will double our enrollment at the Higher Education Center at McAllen, build a new nursing facility and expand our academic offerings,” said Dr. M. Katherine Banks, president of Texas A&M University. “Manny Vela, our new vice president and chief operating officer for Texas A&M University’s McAllen Higher Education Center, will play a critical role in advancing these goals. We are happy to have him join our leadership team in McAllen.”
Vela comes to the university from the Valley Baptist Health System, where he has served as president and CEO since 2012.
“Manny’s role with the university will complement and collaborate with other System schools and agencies across South Texas, strengthening our collective ability to serve the state,” said Texas A&M University System Chancellor John Sharp. “I’ve known Manny for years, and I know he will propel the McAllen center forward as the university targets aggressive growth goals.”
As a native of the Rio Grande Valley (RGV), Vela said he’s thrilled to be a part of Texas A&M’s efforts to create educational opportunities for the people of South Texas.
“We are currently facing a staffing crisis across multiple industries in our state,” he said. “It’s imperative that industry and education continue to collaborate on strategies to address this crisis. I believe the challenge in the RGV is that we still have a significant pool of untapped talent just waiting for opportunities. It’s my commitment to collaborate with every single individual, institution or entity to create strategies that will lead to the expansion of opportunities in our area. I was born and raised in the RGV and couldn’t be prouder to join these efforts.”
In his new role, Vela will be based in McAllen but report directly to President Banks. He will focus on complementing existing leadership in three primary areas: operations/infrastructure for the goal of doubling enrollment by 2025; the Colonias Program which focuses on improving quality of life along the Texas-Mexico border; and university collaboration with South Texas communities and other Texas A&M System entities’ leadership in the region.
Now in its fifth year of operation, the Higher Education Center at McAllen offers undergraduate programs in agricultural economics, biomedical sciences, construction science, education, human resource development, engineering, maritime business administration and public health. The center currently enrolls 340 students.
Recently the university announced its School of Nursing and School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences are planning for program expansions at the McAllen campus. During a news conference in McAllen, Banks showed renderings of the new facility which is slated for construction starting in 2024. Vela said this growth is emblematic of the university and system’s commitment to the RGV.
“By joining Chancellor Sharp, President Banks and the team at McAllen, I get to join forces with a group of phenomenal folks who have committed significant resources to meet our goal of creating educational opportunities for the residents of the Rio Grande Valley,” he said. “In this case, creating the opportunity to attend Texas A&M, and right here in McAllen, Texas.”
Prior to becoming president and CEO of Valley Baptist, Vela served as the health system’s senior vice president and chief legal officer (2003-2011). During his tenure, he was involved with a variety of major corporate transactions, including the purchase of Brownsville Medical Center by Valley Baptist and 2004 and a joint venture with Vanguard Health Systems in 2011.
Vela is from Harlingen, Texas, and obtained both his undergraduate and law degrees from the University of Texas at Austin.
Prior to working at Valley Baptist, he was a partner with his father Moises V. Vela in the Vela and Vela Law Firm. He is active in many local civic, state and national organizations.
Killam Development is proud to announce our sponsorship of Casa De Misericordia‘s Annual Event and Fundraiser on April 13, 2023. Image for iullustration
Texas Border Business
LAREDO, Texas – Killam Development is proud to announce our sponsorship of Casa De Misericordia‘s Annual Event and Fundraiser on April 13, 2023. As a Silver Sponsor, we have contributed $2,500 to support the organization’s vital mission of providing comprehensive and holistic services to victims of domestic violence.
The event will feature Suleika Jaouad, an Emmy Award-Winning Journalist and New York Times Bestselling Author of “Between Two Kingdoms”. Casa De Misericordia’s Annual Event and Fundraiser is a crucial opportunity for the community to come together and support the organization’s efforts to end domestic violence.
Casa De Misericordia is a shelter that provides secure, temporary residential services to victims of domestic violence. Survivors are given the opportunity to rebuild their lives through education, counseling, medical referrals, legal advocacy, and spiritual guidance. The organization also connects victims with appropriate agencies based on their individual needs and goals.
Casa De Misericordia was founded in 1998 by Sr. Rosemary Welsh and a staff of healthcare providers from Mercy Clinic who recognized the need for urgent action to support victims of domestic violence. The organization’s mission and vision is to provide survivors of domestic violence, especially those who are pregnant and with children, a sheltered environment where they can access the very best services while holding batterers accountable for their actions.
Killam Development is honored to support Casa De Misericordia’s Annual Event and Fundraiser and the organization’s critical work to end domestic violence. We believe in the importance of supporting survivors and are committed to using our resources to make a positive impact in our community. For more information on Casa De Misericordia’s mission and services, please visit their website at casademisericordia.org.
For more information about Killam Development’s commitment to the community for a better tomorrow, visit www.killamdevelopment.com
During Marco’s 8 year tenure on McAllen ISD school board; Marco has served as President, Vice President, and current Secretary of the McAllen ISD Board of Trustees . Image Source; Facebook.com for illustration purposes.
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Marco Suarez is a successful product of McAllen ISD.
Attending McAllen public schools since kinder, Marco attended Milam Elementary, Lincoln Jr. High and is a 1992 Graduate of McAllen High School.
After graduation Marco’s time was spent at the University of Texas of San Antonio where he studied Communication and continued winning successes on the collegiate circuit of speech and debate.
Marco was the proud owner and founder of Marco’s Burgers and Fries. This business venture allowed him to experience and savor what it takes to be a small local business owner in the Rio Grande Valley. Marco holds these experiences close to his heart and uses it to empathize with the city of McAllen and the future leaders/business owners that are currently learning behind valuable life winning skills in McAllen ISD.
Marco is currently employed by Climatec; a division of the Bosch Company. He also is a certified court mediator; a useful tool to that is utilized well on the McAllen ISD board. Additionally, Marco is a real estate investor in the RGV.
Marco leads with a servants’ heart. His community leadership is exemplified in some of the current and prior responsibilities he has held.
• Former Chairperson for the City of McAllen Traffic committee, • Chairperson for City of Mcallen Planning and Zoning • Chairperson of Rose-Lawn Cemetery • Former PTO President of Garza Elementary • Member of the Rio Grande Valley UTSA Alumni Association, • Member of Kappa Sigma Alumni Association • Little league Coach
During Marco’s 8 year tenure on McAllen ISD school board; Marco has served as President, Vice President, and current Secretary of the McAllen ISD Board of Trustees .
Despite the successful accolades and winning attributes of leadership that Marco has earned over his servant career, nothing makes him more proud or holds a higher reign to him that being able to say he is the 20 year husband of Juanita Suarez and the proudest father to Mariana Carmen Suarez and “Little” Marco Suarez; both products of McAllen public schools.
Governor Greg Abbott yesterday announced two major statewide initiatives to combat the growing national fentanyl crisis and save innocent lives in Texas during his One Pill Kills Summit in Austin. Photo: Office of the Governor
Texas Border Business
AUSTIN, Texas – Governor Greg Abbott, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS), and the Texas National Guard are continuing to work together to secure the border; stop the smuggling of drugs, weapons, and people into Texas; and prevent, detect, and interdict transnational criminal behavior between ports of entry.
Since the launch of Operation Lone Star, the multi-agency effort has led to over 363,000 illegal immigrant apprehensions and more than 26,000 criminal arrests, with more than 24,000 felony charges reported. In the fight against fentanyl, DPS has seized over 380 million lethal doses of fentanyl during this border mission.
Operation Lone Star continues to fill the dangerous gaps left by the Biden Administration’s refusal to secure the border. Every individual who is apprehended or arrested and every ounce of drugs seized would have otherwise made their way into communities across Texas and the nation due to President Joe Biden’s open border policies.
Governor Greg Abbott yesterday announced two major statewide initiatives to combat the growing national fentanyl crisis and save innocent lives in Texas during his One Pill Kills Summit in Austin. During a press conference following panel discussions, the Governor unveiled a new $10 million multimedia awareness initiative through the Texas Health and Human Services Commission to educate Texans on how to prevent, recognize, and reverse fentanyl poisonings as part of the statewide “One Pill Kills” campaign. The Governor also announced the plan to distribute Naloxone (NARCAN) to all 254 Texas counties by the Texas Division of Emergency Management.
“Thanks to President Joe Biden and his reckless open border policies, the historic levels of fentanyl flooding across our border remains the single deadliest drug threat Texas and our nation have ever seen,” said Governor Abbott. “I am proud to be here today with so many strong voices leading the fight against the fentanyl crisis in Texas communities. Together, we will save more innocent lives from being lost to the scourge of fentanyl.”
Governor Abbott has taken the following actions to address the growing fentanyl crisis plaguing our state and the nation:
Two teenagers from Austin face human smuggling charges after they led DPS troopers on a high-speed pursuit in Kinney County. The 15-year-old driver eventually bailed out into the brush. Five illegal immigrants also bailed out and ran.
The driver and the 14-year-old passenger were arrested and charged with evading and smuggling of persons.
DPS Special Agents Discover Stash House With 95 Illegal Immigrants
Photo: Texas DPS
DPS special agents were conducting surveillance with U.S. Border Patrol agents near El Paso last weekend when they received information on a potential stash house. A search of the home resulted in a total of 95 illegal immigrants from Mexico, Guatemala, and Ecuador–including two minors.
All were referred to Border Patrol. The stash house manager faces federal charges.
Texas National Guard Apprehends Illegal Immigrants In Laredo Neighborhood
Photo: Texas Military Department
Texas National Guard soldiers assisted in blocking off streets in a Laredo residential area to apprehend multiple illegal immigrants last week. Local law enforcement was alerted that numerous illegal immigrants crossed the border illegally and ran into the neighborhood. Nearby troopers helped establish a blocking position to stop illegal immigrants from being picked up by human traffickers.
“We apprehended 8 illegal immigrants by using vehicles and manpower to close off the area,” said Spc. Sanchez, Bravo Company, Task Force Center. “We use our radio equipment to communicate with law enforcement to assist in apprehensions.”
Illegal immigrants frequently use neighborhoods to evade detection by law enforcement. Backyards and private property are used as waiting areas for a “load-up car” to arrive for traffickers to then transport them to the next stash house or destination.
DPS Special Agents Find 58 Illegal Immigrants In Rental Truck In El Paso
Photo: Texas DPS
Last week, DPS special agents observed illegal immigrants being loaded up into a Penske rental truck on the West side of El Paso. Further investigation identified a total of 58 illegal immigrants from Mexico, El Salvador, and Guatemala.
All were referred to Border Patrol. The driver, an illegal immigrant from Mexico, was arrested and faces federal charges for human smuggling.
The month-long project culminated in a stunning masterpiece created by Artist Cheryll Anderson. Corner of Bicentennial & Expressway 83. Courtesy Image
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The 30ft standpipe (first of that size to be painted) was unveiled in all its glory this weekend. The month-long project culminated in a stunning masterpiece created by Artist Cheryll Anderson. Corner of Bicentennial & Expressway 83
A stunning masterpiece created by Artist Cheryll Anderson. Courtesy ImageWoking on the art piece. Courtesy Image
To stay up to date with the standpipe project, please follow Keep McAllen Beautiful, Inc. or visit www.KeepMcAllenBeautiful.org for 360° photos of the completed pipe.
