U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers found more than 7 pounds of methamphetamine in a traveler’s luggage. The traveler is facing felony charges. USCBP Image
Texas Border Business
DALLAS, Texas – U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers at Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport seized over 7 pounds of methamphetamine a traveler was carrying in their luggage early last week.
A traveler, Roy Payne Jr., a U.S. citizen, arrived on a flight from Mexico City and was transiting to Japan when a canine derailed his plans. CBP canine Lotti, trained to detect controlled substances and contraband, alerted to the traveler’s luggage. CBP officers inspected the baggage and found five vacuum sealed packages concealed within the hard-sided bags. The packages contained a white crystal-like substance that tested positive for the presence of methamphetamine.
A total of 7.6 pounds of methamphetamine was seized by CBP officers. The street value of the narcotic is over $10,000. Methamphetamine is dangerous and highly addictive stimulants. Abuse can lead to paranoia, exhaustion, heart conditions, convulsions, stroke, and death. Methamphetamine is classified as a Schedule II stimulant under the Controlled Substances Act.
“Our canine teams are an invaluable asset to the CBP enforcement strategy,” says Raul Orona, Acting Area Port Director, Dallas Fort Worth. “This interdiction is a testament to the hard work, dedication and training these teams employ on a daily basis protecting America.”
The seized narcotics were turned over to Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Dallas special agents for further investigation. Payne is facing federal charges for violating 21 USC 846 and 21 USC 841, conspiracy to possess with the intent to deliver, which is a felony.
“Methamphetamine is a life-altering and very dangerous drug that continues to inhibit the lives of thousands of people all across the country,” said Lester R. Hayes, Jr., Special Agent in Charge HSI Dallas. “Our collective efforts to stop these illicit drugs from entering our communities and poisoning our neighborhoods will never cease.”
CBP’s border security mission is led at ports of entry by CBP officers from the Office of Field Operations. CBP officers use a variety of techniques to intercept narcotics, unreported currency, weapons, prohibited agriculture, and other illicit products, and to assure that global tourism remains safe and strong.
South Texas College provides opportunities of continuing education wherever it is needed, serving the entire Rio Grande Valley. Recently, instructors from the Regional Center of Public Safety Excellence (RCPSE) visited Starr County to share their knowledge in car fire and rescue with firefighters from the region. STC Image
Texas Border Business
RIO GRANDE CITY, Texas – South Texas College provides opportunities of continuing education wherever it is needed, serving the entire Rio Grande Valley. Recently, instructors from the Regional Center of Public Safety Excellence (RCPSE) visited Starr County to share their knowledge in car fire and rescue with firefighters from the region.
Fire Science instructors conducted a training at STC’s Starr County campus where firefighters from Rio Grande City, Roma and Palmview were shown how to safely use the car fire simulator that STC fire cadets train with so they can later use it to also train their department firefighters.
“Most of the training props that STC acquires for training are mobile because we want to transport them wherever they’re needed,” said Robert Vela, campus coordinator for the Regional Center. “We want these resources to not only be available to our students but to every fire department in the RGV. Our mission is to continue these trainings that will result in the betterment of the region.”
Vela added that this is the first time that instructors from the regional center traveled off site to conduct a training and showed his appreciation to the Rio Grande City Fire Department for their support and continued partnership.
“We’re thankful to the college for giving us the opportunity to request this tool and help our team, we’re looking forward to visiting the regional center and learning more about the equipment STC has made available to us,” said Manuel Muniz, Rio Grande City Fire Department fire chief.
During the training, participants were shown the correct set up and operation of the training equipment and reviewed various techniques and approaches when encountering a car fire.
STC Fire Science Instructor Oscar Rodriguez highlighted the significance of this type of simulated equipment that allows firefighters to avoid prolonged exposure to harsh chemicals when training.
“Any car in today’s world is a petroleum time-bomb, basically everything that produces black smoke is bad for our health,” Rodriguez explained. “It’s wrong to continue working with the concept of training in a realistic environment because these are cancer-causing petroleum products.”
He added that he takes pride in teaching the cadets the importance of cleaning their gear and the awareness of the health risks that come with the job so they can go on to have a successful career in the fire service and a healthy retirement.
Attendees were also presented with the academic opportunities that STC offers. Certified firefighters can obtain college credits during certain trainings that will count toward an associate degree in Fire Science or Emergency Medical Services, as well as a bachelor’s degree in Organizational Leadership.
The RGV Fire Chief Association recently visited the STC regional center to learn more about the different pathways and financial aid available to firefighters in continuing education, which are also offered at a reduced cost.
“We understand they might not have the time to go in person to enroll or look for guidance, but we’re here to help,” said Student Engagement and Completion Specialist Salvador Hernandez. “We can go directly to the fire stations and help them with the registration and financial aid process, our goal is for them to have no barriers.”
Hernandez highlighted there’s a variety of financial aid and tuition reimbursement programs available, some of which have come as a result of STC partnerships with local fire departments.
“Depending on the city, it might not be a 100% tuition-waived fee, but it is a reduced cost. We want all firefighters to be aware of these resources so they can continue their education and move up successfully in their careers.”
In his new role, Candelaria will oversee operations and revenue generation for Golden Grape Entertainment and all of its entities; Bert Ogden Arena, H-E-B Park, RGV FC, Golden Grape Concessions, DHR Sports + Wellness Center, RGV Pro Sports. Courtesy Image. Bgd. googlemaps
Texas Border Business
EDINBURG, Texas – Golden Grape Entertainment announced today the promotion of Hondo Candelaria as the organization’s new President.
In his new role, Candelaria will oversee operations and revenue generation for Golden Grape Entertainment and all of its entities; Bert Ogden Arena, H-E-B Park, RGV FC, Golden Grape Concessions, DHR Sports + Wellness Center, RGV Pro Sports.
Hondo Candelaria has formed part of the Golden Grape Entertainment, Rio Grande Valley Vipers and Rio Grande Valley FC Toros organizations in different capacities for a collective 10 years, most recently named Golden Grape Entertainment Vice President of Sports + Entertainment in 2021. “It is an honor to serve this incredible organization, the ability to grow within the organization as well as the trust given to me by ownership is truly humbling. We continue to aim toward serving the community and providing the best entertainment possible at both of our world class venues for years to come.”
Since 2017, he has overseen the ticketing operations for Golden Grape Entertainment as the Director of Ticketing. Bert Ogden Arena and H-E-B Park have successfully booked and executed elite events, bringing high level entertainment to the Rio Grande Valley region.
Bert Ogden Arena has been proudly named as a premium venue of choice for artists and tours, with major artist tours such as RBD – Soy Rebelde recently selling out multiple shows in Edinburg. Family oriented shows such as Hot Wheels – Monster Trucks sold out back-to-back showtimes in late February, adding to the success of the entertainment value for the venue.
Golden Grape Entertainment Owner, Alonzo Cantu acknowledged Candelaria for his tenure and value added to the organization; “Hondo has dedicated many years of service to our entertainment organization and sport entities with class and leadership. I am proud to extend this promotion to a deserving individual who gives their all to the organization. He is a great asset to us, and an even greater family man. I congratulate him on his success and am confident that he will lead this organization as an elite venue of choice for years to come.”
Leaders from The South Texas Independent School District (STISD) were joined by STISD board members, administrators, faculty, staff, students, alumni and community members at a press conference and presentation held today, February 28, 2023, to dispel misinformation behind efforts to defund the District. Courtesy Image
Texas Border Business
MERCEDES, Texas – Leaders from The South Texas Independent School District (STISD) were joined by STISD board members, administrators, faculty, staff, students, alumni and community members at a press conference and presentation held today, February 28, 2023, to dispel misinformation behind efforts to defund the District.
With the recent circulation of misinformation around the district, STISD finds itself fending off the potential introduction of legislation that would call for the removal of its taxing authority, essentially defunding a primary source of revenue for the district, and thereby eliminating the district altogether.
Courtesy Image
The press conference and presentation was an opportunity for STISD representatives to present factual information that clarified some of the issues that several public school districts have claimed in resolutions that have been passed by their respective school boards, calling for potential changes to legislation that would affect STISD’s taxing authority, which has been in place for nearly sixty years. Led by Superintendent of Schools Dr. Marco Antonio Lara, Jr., the informative presentation discussed STISD’s purpose, history, evolution and funding. Lara presented an overview of STISD’s history, services, and accomplishments over the course of its existence.
Historically, STISD has been serving families in the tri-county area (Cameron, Hidalgo, and Willacy Counties) of the Rio Grande Valley, providing students with a high-quality, free public education option with endless opportunities. Since its inception in 1964, the district has continued its original legislative purpose to serve students with special needs, and with changes to legislation, it evolved to serving as the state’s first magnet school system, graduating thousands of students who have gone on to successful professional careers and professions.
Lara also addressed misinformation that has led to the call for changes to its taxing authority.
He addressed some claims that critics have made, dispelling inaccuracies with factual information, including the following:
• STISD has evolved with the times and continues to serve its legislative purpose.
• STISD’s minimal tax of less than $0.05 (a nickel) allows for the operation of STISD to serve students from all three counties, should they choose to enroll.
• STISD is not the district with the highest revenue per student, once all sources of revenue are included.
• STISD is an open-enrollment district.
See documents Below for more information:
Ultimately, Lara asserted that there exists a substantial public purpose to keep South Texas ISD functioning as a valuable public school choice available for all students in Cameron, Hidalgo, and Willacy counties who choose to obtain a high-quality, FREE, public education from one of the highest-performing school districts in the nation.
“South Texas ISD will continue to advocate for our students and the valuable opportunity that STISD’s schools and programs provide as a public school option,” remarked Lara. “We will continue to educate and inform the public of our unique mission and opportunities, and we are confident that STISD will continue as an alternative educational choice and experience for students in South Texas,” he ended.
Texas Board of Legal Specialization (TBLS) announced Joshua A. Cummings received Board Certification in Estate Planning and Probate Law. Joshua A. Cummings currently practices in South Texas, where he is a Partner at Atlas, Hall & Rodriguez, LLP. Courtesy Image for illustration purposes
Texas Border Business
AUSTIN, Texas − Texas Board of Legal Specialization (TBLS) announced Joshua A. Cummings received Board Certification in Estate Planning and Probate Law. Joshua A. Cummings currently practices in South Texas, where he is a Partner at Atlas, Hall & Rodriguez, LLP.
Board Certification is a voluntary designation program certifying Texas attorneys in 25 specific areas of law. Board Certified attorneys must be licensed for at least five years, devote a required percentage of practice to a specialty area for at least three years, attend continuing education seminars, pass an evaluation by fellow lawyers and judges and pass a 6-hour written examination.
Joshua A. Cummings is a 2006 graduate of Baylor University School of Law. Joshua A. Cummings has been a part of Atlas, Hall & Rodriguez, LLP law firm since 2007 and was licensed by the State Bar of Texas in 2006. Mr. Cummings has been admitted to practice in Texas, U.S. District Court Southern District of Texas, and U.S. District Court Western District of Texas. In 2018, he was part of the first ever group of attorneys certified for Property Owners Association Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization, and he was the only attorney to receive that certification in Hidalgo County.
Board Certification is offered in 25 specific areas of law to attorneys. Initial Certification is valid for five years. To remain certified, attorneys and paralegals must apply for recertification every five years and meet substantial involvement, peer review, and continuing legal education requirements for their specialty area.
To learn more about Board Certification or find a certified attorney in your area visit
Shown meeting to discuss the Mixer are Tony’s staff: left to right: Lupita Vela, Irene Castillo, Linda Mejia, Oscar Gutierrez, Chris Abinsays and Ashley Hernandez. Courtesy Image
Texas Border Business
Get ready to enjoy yourself and start a great week at the RGV Hispanic Chamber March Manic Mixer at Tony’s Grill in Weslaco at the Tierra Santa Golf Course from 5:30pm to 7:00pm. Bring plenty of business cards, your happy attitude and a desire to meet new people while enjoying great food and delicious beverages. The RGVHCC members and future members get an opportunity to talk about their businesses by also bringing door prizes.
The reason for the Manic Monday Mixers are for members to Network and get new opportunities to meet new people as well as members to highlight their businesses like Tony’s Grill. “Members come from all over the Valley so we encourage you to come and find out about the benefits that the RGVHCC has to offer”. stated Dina Sabnani, vice chair of Hidalgo County membership.
For more information on the Manic Monday Mixer call the RGVHCC at 928-0060.
Prepare to indulge in the ultimate in fine dining as one of South Texas’ most highly anticipated high-end restaurants gets set to make its grand debut mid-March 2023. Courtesy Image
Texas Border Business
McALLEN, Texas – Prepare to indulge in the ultimate in fine dining as one of South Texas’ most highly anticipated high-end restaurants gets set to make its grand debut mid-March 2023. From Jaime Muriel, the visionary restaurateur behind some of the city’s most acclaimed eateries —Il Forno a Legna, Prime, and Mikhuna—Ambra promises a luxurious and unforgettable dining experience. This much-awaited addition to the culinary scene promises to deliver an unparalleled gourmet journey, from the exceptional cuts of beef to the carefully crafted cocktails and exquisite wine list.
From the moment you step inside the doors of Ambra, you are greeted by an ambiance that is truly unparalleled.Courtesy Image
With a prime location in North McAllen, Ambra is poised to become the go-to destination for foodies and steak connoisseurs alike. Whether you’re looking to celebrate a special occasion or simply indulge in some of the finest food and drink offered, Ambra is sure to impress.
From the moment you step inside the doors of Ambra, you are greeted by an ambiance that is truly unparalleled. This restaurant is a feast for the senses, with every detail carefully crafted to create an atmosphere that is both elegant and modern. Spanning over 6,200 square feet, the space is grand yet inviting. The décor is a masterful blend of classic and contemporary design, with richly handcrafted woodwork, supple leather and velvet furniture, and warm lighting that creates a cozy and intimate atmosphere.
Every aspect of the space has been thoughtfully considered to create a cohesive and harmonious ambiance to complement the dining experience. Courtesy Image
As you make your way through the restaurant, you’ll notice the attention to detail that has been paid to every corner. From the stunning bar area to the comfortable seating arrangements, every aspect of the space has been thoughtfully considered to create a cohesive and harmonious ambiance to complement the dining experience.
Ambra’s globally-inspired menu is infused with gastronomic embers, showcasing a creative and dynamic approach to cuisine. Each dish is expertly crafted, igniting the palate with bold and unexpected flavors from around the globe. This is not just a meal but a culinary journey that is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Ingredients for each dish are sourced from the highest quality vendors, ensuring that every bite is bursting with fresh and bold flavors. Some items are inspired by Argentinian, Peruvian, and other South American countries while still incorporating signature Italian flavors that IL Forno Brands are famous for. The menu focuses on meats, fish, seafood, and vegetables creatively prepared using a variety of wood and charcoals from South America. The steakhouse will include traditional steaks such as NY Strip, Ribeye, and Filet Mignon, along with more unique and out-of-the-ordinary cuts such as Rump and Flat Iron ranging from PRIME Grade up to Wagyu.
These elegant spaces are perfect for intimate gatherings, accommodating a select number of guests in style and comfort. Courtesy Image
Ambra takes great pride in showcasing its specialty charcoal grill and pizza oven, which are used to craft mouth-watering made-to-order dishes. Employing unique grilling and baking techniques, the chefs bring out the natural flavors of the ingredients, resulting in an authentically delicious culinary experience.
The dedicated chefs at Ambra are passionate about creating memorable meals for their guests, and their commitment to excellence shines through in every dish. Whether you’re savoring a classic pizza or indulging in a perfectly grilled steak, the attention to detail and exceptional quality of the ingredients are sure to leave a lasting impression.
From the chic decor to the impeccable service, every detail has been carefully considered to ensure that your event is a memorable success. Courtesy Image
If you’re in the mood for an enchanting outdoor dining experience, Ambra’s sprawling 2,000-square-foot patio is just the spot you’ve been searching for. Nestled amidst lush landscaping and punctuated by the soothing sound of a tranquil waterfall, this stunning al fresco oasis provides the perfect setting for a leisurely lunch or a romantic dinner under the stars.
If you’re looking for an exclusive venue to host your next event, Ambra has you covered with its two enclosed private party rooms. These elegant spaces are perfect for intimate gatherings, accommodating a select number of guests in style and comfort.
Whether you’re planning a special celebration or a business meeting, Ambra’s private party rooms offer the perfect blend of sophistication and functionality. From the chic decor to the impeccable service, every detail has been carefully considered to ensure that your event is a memorable success.
If you’re in the mood for an enchanting outdoor dining experience, Ambra’s sprawling 2,000-square-foot patio is just the spot you’ve been searching for. Courtesy Image
“We’re excited to bring a new high-end dining experience to North McAllen,” said Jaime Muriel, the owner of Ambra. “Our goal is to provide our guests with an unforgettable culinary experience, exceptional service, and a warm and inviting atmosphere. We look forward to welcoming everyone to Ambra.”
North Park Village is the latest addition to Domain Development’s impressive portfolio, with the highly anticipated Ambra as its main attraction, accompanied by other exquisite dining options with bars set to open soon. “Ambra really sets the bar for high-end dining,” said Shavi Mahtani, president of Domain Development.
“Ambra really sets the bar for high-end dining,” said Shavi Mahtani, president of Domain Development. Courtesy Image
“Successful restaurants are all based on their operators, and we approached Jaime Muriel from the Il Forno brands to do his next project in North Park Village,” said Mahtani. “He definitely didn’t disappoint with Ambra.”
There has been a move afoot of late in Texas to reduce or eliminate diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies in settings such as higher education and hiring. Image for illustration purposes
Texas Border Business
Dr. M. Ray Perryman, President and Chief Executive Officer of The Perryman Group
There has been a move afoot of late in Texas to reduce or eliminate diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies in settings such as higher education and hiring. Such efforts run counter to my boyhood notions of Texas as an open and welcoming place. Irrespective of any purported rationale behind these efforts, they put the state on a slippery economic slope with potentially substantial adverse consequences.
We have studied these issues and engaged in extensive research and modeling to analyze potential economic implications of policies which appear to be discriminatory or exclusionary. Empirical studies indicate that non-discrimination protections encourage the location of knowledge workers and young workers in an area, thus contributing to the attraction and retention of high-growth industries conducive to long-term economic growth. In fact, research has demonstrated that non-discriminatory employment policies foster enhanced growth in technology enterprises. These positive effects would likely be magnified by policies assuring access to housing, public places, education, and employment opportunities. As the nation faces long-term shortages, a skilled workforce will be the currency of economic development. Policies which make Texas less attractive to this critical resource will be counterproductive.
Similarly, surveys of travelers and convention professionals demonstrate that full access is increasingly necessary for an active tourism market. Social policies which are perceived to be discriminatory can have a detrimental effect on travel and tourism by decreasing the attractiveness of an area to event planners and potential visitors. Controversial laws can reduce numbers of attendees, for instance, which can cause professionals who organize conferences and events to avoid such locations. In addition, scheduling an event in a location with a law that is considered to be harmful by some groups can be interpreted as support for the policy, and some organizations and sponsors will choose to avoid locations with controversial laws in order to avoid the appearance of approval of the public policy.
The potential economic stakes are sizable. In a prior study, we estimated that passing a comprehensive non-discrimination policy would bring Texas over $100 billion in annual gross product and more than 700,000 jobs by 2045. Business activity also generates tax revenue, and the potential stimulus associated with passage of such a measure would generate notable increases in tax receipts to the State and local governments. Moving in the opposite direction is clearly counterproductive.
Assuring that Texas creates a welcoming environment for all workers and visitors is a key to sustained and accelerated growth in several sectors that are crucial to the future economic performance and prosperity of the state in an increasingly competitive environment. DEI principles are important to ensuring Texas is seen as a welcoming place for all – which is essential to long-term success. Stay safe!
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Dr. M. Ray Perryman is President and Chief Executive Officer of The Perryman Group (www.perrymangroup.com), which has served the needs of over 3,000 clients over the past four decades.
McAllen International Airport is committed to the continuous improvement of infrastructure and equipment. Image for illustration purposes. Bgd. googlemaps
Texas Border Business
McALLEN, Texas – The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) announced it granted $5 billion through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to provide grants for airport terminal development projects for improvements aimed at addressing the aging infrastructure of the nation’s airports. These grants will fund safe, sustainable, and accessible airport terminals, on-airport rail access projects, and airport-owned airport traffic control towers. Additional projects include multimodal development.
FAA awarded McAllen International Airport $1.98M for HVAC and lighting improvement. “The federal funding, we received today will assist the airport in completing important capital improvement projects. Thank you to Representative de la Cruz for her assistance in securing these federal funds and for her support of McAllen International Airport. We look forward to a strong working relationship with Congresswoman de la Cruz and her team as we work together on key airport infrastructure funding requests,” said McAllen City Manager Roel “Roy” Rodriguez, P.E.
“McAllen International Airport is committed to the continuous improvement of infrastructure and equipment. The funded HVAC and lighting system improvements will make the airport more energy efficient, improve sustainability, and reduce overall operating expenses. We will continue to work diligently to expend grant funds and complete funded projects in a timely manner,” said Director of Aviation, Elizabeth Suarez.
The Harlingen Economic Development Corporation (HEDC) has long been a champion of the Harlingen small business community. Image for illustration purposes.
Texas Border Business
HARLINGEN, Texas – The Harlingen Economic Development Corporation (HEDC) has long been a champion of the Harlingen small business community. The HEDC hopes to continue assisting the small business community when possible and has released the Harlingen Small Business Survey to help identify needs within the business community.
“As Harlingen continues to grow, we want to assist our small business community to succeed and meet the demands of a changing economy,” said Beverly Loftus, HEDC Interim Manager and CEO.
“We want to know where they are falling short and assist where we can, but first we need to hear from our business owners.”
The HEDC currently offers programs and services to small businesses through partnerships with the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, and UTRGV’s Small Business Development Center. One specific program sponsored by the HEDC is UTRGV’s Kauffman FastTrac course, which gives entrepreneurs the tools to successfully launch and grow their businesses. During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, as businesses were forced to shut down and lay employees off, the HEDC stepped up and offered a small business loan program, known as Harlingen Helps. The program helped more than 50 Harlingen businesses and lent nearly $500,000 to businesses that they used to pay fees, rent, payroll, supplies, and other business-related expenses. Max amount received per loan was $10,000. The loans were later forgiven and turned into grants.
More recently, the HEDC continues to support small businesses with new programs like the latest grant program, Revitalize Harlingen. This program provides financial assistance to eligible commercial businesses or property owners to utilize towards storefront improvement and renovation costs. As funds and opportunities are made available, the HEDC plans to continue to help Harlingen small businesses grow and wants to learn more about the needs of this thriving community.
“We are mindful of the needs of our small business owners, and we want to provide the best assistance we possibly can, and have created the Harlingen Small Business Survey that we hope will give us some insight,” said Loftus.
The survey will help the HEDC with the future creation and planning of resources, programs, grants, and tools needed to serve the Harlingen small business community. The survey includes questions like what type of challenges are businesses facing, what type of training are they in need of or has taken, and if grant funds were available to them, how would they use them.
“We encourage our small business owners to take this survey, it will allow us to help them as best as we possibly can,” said Eric Ziehe, HEDC Board President.
“As we attract new business, we also want to ensure that our local business community is strong and successful.”
