Bundles from a seizure of 1,337 pounds of methamphetamine seized by CBP officers at Pharr International Bridge. USCBP Image
Texas Border Business
PHARR, Texas—U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), Office of Field Operations (OFO) officers assigned to the Hidalgo/Pharr/Anzalduas Port of Entry recently seized methamphetamine and cocaine that totaled over $14.4 million in street value in three separate enforcement actions.
“These three significant methamphetamine and cocaine seizures in both the cargo and the passenger vehicle environment underscore the severity of the hard narcotics threat we face every day and the grit and determination of our frontline officers to stop these loads in their tracks, before they can enter the U.S. and poison our communities,” said Port Director Carlos Rodriguez, Hidalgo/Pharr/Anzalduas Port of Entry.
Packages containing 149 pounds of cocaine seized by CBP officers at Pharr International Bridge. USCBP Image
The most recent seizure occurred on Thursday, Nov. 17 at Pharr International Bridge when CBP officers referred a 2008 Ford F-350 hauling a shipment of aluminum scrap for secondary inspection. Upon further examination, including the use of non-intrusive inspection systems, CBP officers discovered 55 packages containing a total of nearly 149 pounds of alleged cocaine hidden within the shipment. The narcotics had an estimated street value of $1,986,000.
Another seizure occurred on Wednesday, Nov. 16 at Anzalduas International Bridge when CBP officers referred a 2014 Dodge Caravan for secondary inspection. Upon further examination, including the use of non-intrusive inspection systems, CBP officers discovered 24 packages within candy boxes containing a total of 53.5 pounds of alleged methamphetamine. The narcotics had an estimated street value of $491,799.
The largest seizure also occurred on Wednesday, Nov. 16, at the Pharr International Bridge, when a CBP officer referred a tractor trailer hauling a commercial shipment of charcoal for secondary inspection. Following a canine and non-intrusive inspection system examination, CBP officers discovered 1,543 bundles containing a total of 1,337 pounds of alleged methamphetamine hidden within the shipment. The narcotics had a street value of $11,952,902.
CBP seized the narcotics in all three enforcement actions. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement-Homeland Security Investigations (ICE-HSI) special agents are investigating all three seizures.
“I want to thank Edinburg officials for their continued efforts in obtaining funding for this project.” – Senator Juan Chuy Hinojosa. Image for illustration purposes
Texas Border Business
AUSTIN, Texas — The Texas Water Development Board (TWDB) approved $44 million in financial assistance for the City of Edinburg for the planning, acquisition, design, and construction of a wastewater system improvements project. The financial assistance will consist of $43,925,000 in financing and $75,000 in principal forgiveness from the Clean Water State Revolving Fund (CWSRF). By securing financial assistance through the CWSRF program, TWDB estimated that the City could save nearly $11 million over the life of the financing. Edinburg will not have to increase property taxes to pay for the financing. The City will pledge revenue from the wastewater system to cover all existing and proposed debt.
The City of Edinburg currently provides drinking water and wastewater services to approximately 30,500 water connections and 25,300 wastewater connections. The proposed three-phase project will make improvements to Edinburg’s wastewater treatment plant to expand its capacity in anticipation of the growing population expected by 2030. Edinburg is the fifth fastest-growing large city in the state and ranks in the top 20 in the country. The current population of approximately 105,000 and continues to grow by an average of about seven people per day. As result, to accommodate the population growth and comply with state regulations, the project will include construction of a new plant on the north side of the City’s service area and make improvements to address capacity issues to the existing plant. In addition, financial assistance will allow the City to address existing sanitary sewer overflows and conduct an emergency preparedness plan.
Senator Hinojosa released the following statement:
“The growth the City of Edinburg is experiencing make this project necessary. The funding approved by the Texas Water Development Board ensures that the City will continue to provide drinking water and wastewater services to all residents in the future. I want to thank Edinburg officials for their continued efforts in obtaining funding for this project.”
(Left to right) Jessica Ybarra-Almaraz, Juan Lucio and Rebeca Villanueva-Hernandez are TSTC employees who were recently recognized as recipients of the college’s 2022 Chancellor’s Cornerstone Awards for the Harlingen campus. (Photo courtesy of TSTC.)
Texas Border Business
HARLINGEN, Texas – Texas State Technical College prides itself on its core values of excellence, accountability, service and integrity, and it recognizes individuals every year who help achieve its mission of placing more Texans in great-paying jobs.
Jessica Ybarra-Almaraz, Juan Lucio and Rebeca Villanueva-Hernandez are TSTC employees who were recently recognized as recipients of the college’s 2022 Chancellor’s Cornerstone Awards for the Harlingen campus.
What makes this award special is that the recipients were nominated by their colleagues.
Amanda Posada, provost at TSTC’s Harlingen campus and the college’s statewide dual enrollment executive director, said recognizing fellow Harlingen campus teammates with the prestigious awards is a privilege.
“Having the opportunity to acknowledge Jessica, Juan and Rebeca for not only displaying a consistent commitment to TSTC’s core values, but also demonstrating a passion for their roles as an integral part of the TSTC community, is an honor” she said. “Their service to our students is not only appreciated, but admired.”
Ybarra-Almaraz, an instructional technologist of online learning, has been with TSTC for 24 years and handles Canvas, the college’s learning management system that students utilize.
She said it was a surprise to learn about the recognition.
“I am honored that my peers trust me and know they can count on me,” she said. “What motivates me is seeing the continued success of our faculty. I get to see their growth as educators. As for the students who graduate, they return not only to discuss their career success, but also to tell us they’re continuing their education.”
Lucio has been an officer with the TSTC Police Department for two years. He provides safety and security by fostering a positive and safe environment for the TSTC community.
“I am overwhelmed with joy and pride that I am part of TSTC,” he said. “This institution has been the foundation of my career in law enforcement. I have been chosen to be part of a family-oriented environment where I can flourish in my skills, drive and humility. I have learned to be disciplined, humble and never give up. My wife is my support system and allows me to pursue my goals.”
Villanueva-Hernandez, TSTC’s enrollment executive in Harlingen, has been with the college for nearly three years. She oversees the enrollment of students in their programs of study.
“It’s a huge compliment that my peers recognized my hard work and commitment to our values,” she said. “We get to see so many students who are looking for a chance in higher education. We see them when they first enroll, then they cross the stage at graduation and, ultimately, they get hired. It’s rewarding to know that you’re part of that journey, and it’s life-changing.”
Governor Greg Abbott celebrated Texas’ continuing strong jobs growth following employment releases from the Texas Workforce Commission and the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics showing Texas experienced the fastest annual jobs growth rate in the 12 months through October 2022. Image for illustration purposes.
Texas Border Business
AUSTIN, Texas – Governor Greg Abbott celebrated Texas’ continuing strong jobs growth following employment releases from the Texas Workforce Commission and the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics showing Texas experienced the fastest annual jobs growth rate in the 12 months through October 2022. Texas again broke its all-time record for total jobs for the 12th consecutive month as Texas employers added 49,500 nonfarm jobs last month.
“Texas continues to create jobs and set historic employment records each month thanks to our strong, growing workforce and continuing business confidence in Texas,” said Governor Abbott. “With 49,500 jobs added last month and another new record for total jobs, the Lone Star State shines as a beacon of opportunity. Despite national economic headwinds, Texas grew jobs at the fastest rate in the nation over the past 12 months. Working together in the months ahead, we will continue to expand economic opportunity for all Texans.”
October’s strong jobs numbers reported for Texas include:
A new record for total jobs at 13,630,000 as employers added 49,500 nonfarm jobs over the month.
A total of 14,002,911 employed Texans, including nonfarm, self-employed, and other job categories.
Annual jobs growth rate (October 2021 to October 2022) of 5.4%, the fastest in the nation.
A labor force participation rate, the percentage of all working age Texans who are employed or are actively seeking work, of 63.6%, above the national average.
International celebrities who will be bringing their star power to the event this year include telenovela, film and musical star Ariadne Diaz and telenovela actor, model and singer David Zepeda. Courtesy Images. Bgd Image Texas Border Business.
Texas Border Business
The Best Parade in Texas steps off from McAllen Veterans Memorial Stadium on Saturday, December 3 at 6 PM, MHP organizers unveiled the last round of celebrities who will be making an appearance at this year’s presentation of McAllen’s annual Christmas parade. International celebrities who will be bringing their star power to the event this year include telenovela, film and musical star Ariadne Diaz and telenovela actor, model and singer David Zepeda. Other stars announced for the McAllen Holiday Parade, presented by H-E-B and powered by Bert Ogden Auto Group, included a few of the balloons that will be featured in the production, as well as the list of high school marching bands that will also entertain everyone along the parade route. Parade organizers are still seeking volunteers and shoebox float entries and tickets are still available for the largest illuminated holiday and helium balloon parade in Texas that will step off from McAllen Veterans Memorial Stadium on Saturday, December 3, 2022 at 6 PM.
“Our first celebrity is as beautiful as she is talented and hard-working. She is also a true activist and animal lover,” said Dist. 5 Comm. Victor “Seby” Haddad. “Ariadne Diaz is a classically trained ballerina, has been in a telenovela, play, musical or movie every year since 2007 and has been actively involved in PETA Latin America, successfully getting cosmetic testing on animals banned in Mexico.”
Comm. Haddad continued with the next announcement, saying “Our next star is a triple threat and a genuine Mexican star. David Zepeda is a Mexican actor, model and singer. Since 2007, he has appeared in countless telenovelas, winning Best Lead Antagonist and Best Lead Male Actor in the TV y Novelas Awards. He has competed in countless international modeling competitions, various films including Jeepers Creepers 2, Desbudos and Two of a Kind (2008), has released two albums and, in his most daring artistic move yet, appeared in a couple of productions where he was completely nude. Much to the dismay of many of his female fans here in the Rio Grande Valley, he will be appropriately and completely dressed when he makes his debut at our parade here in December.”
One of the wonderful aspects of the parade are the amazing giant helium balloons that are carried by hundreds of volunteers during the parade. Fan favorites returning include of course H-E-Buddy and the H-E-B ornaments; as well as South Padre Island’s Ridley the Sea Turtle; McAllen Public Work’s Curby Recycling Bin; and the UTRGV Vaquero. Some new ones we’ll be seeing include a giant robot and spaceship, a nod to the McAllen Holiday Parade theme, while traditional holiday balloons will also be a part of the festive atmosphere.
And many, many more, all making that famous and unique Vuelta, that only happens here, at the McAllen Holiday Parade, the largest illuminated holiday and helium balloon parade in Texas.
In the Rio Grande Valley, residents love their high school bands and they are as important to the parade fun as the floats and balloons. For parade organizers, the inclusion of the high school bands in more than just entertainment; it is to promote music education and the opportunities that performances like the McAllen Holiday Parade bring.
This year features award-winning powerhouse programs from throughout Hidalgo County, including McAllen I.S.D. bands from McAllen High School, Memorial High School, and Nikki Rowe High School; Edinburg Consolidated I.S.D including Economedes High School and Robert Vela High School; Pharr-San Juan-Alamo I.S.D. including PSJA North High School, PSJA Memorial High School and PSJA Southwest High School; La Joya I.S.D., including La Joya High School; and Palmview High School; Sharyland I.S.D. with Sharyland High School and Sharyland Pioneer High School; and Valley View I.S.D. with Valley View High School who will all be performing.
As a reminder, anyone wishing to be a part of this year’s parade can do so in a variety of ways, including, submitting an entry for the McAllen Holiday Shoebox Parade; or volunteering as a banner carrier or balloon handlers.
Shoebox parade entries must be on a shoebox, and can include any type of arts & crafts, toys, holiday decorations, lights or countless elements to celebrate “South Pole & Beyond,” the theme of both the shoebox and the big parade. The winning shoebox float entry will be made into an actual float for the 2023 edition of the McAllen Holiday Parade.
Entries are due no later than Wednesday, November 23, 2022 by 3:00 p.m. to the City of McAllen Office of Communications, McAllen City Hall, 1300 W. Houston Ave., 3rd Floor. For more information, visit www.mcallen.net.
Balloon handler volunteers must be 18 years or over, while banner carriers must be 16 years or over. All volunteers must go through a background check and will receive gloves, t-shirt and snacks. Call 956-681-3350 for more information or sign up at pardvolunteers@mcallen.net.
The parade will step off at 6:00 p.m. on Saturday, December 3, 2022 from the McAllen Veterans Memorial Stadium, 2001 N. Bicentennial Blvd. Ticket prices start at $10, plus service fees for stadium; SPI Vuelta Zone; Skybox Fan Experience; or any of the community group chair seating for the parade and can be purchased at www.ticketmaster.com; at the McAllen Performing Arts Center Box Office, 801Convention Center Blvd or from any of the community groups. There is also plenty of free seating along the parade route, on a first come basis.
For the past four years, the McAllen Holiday Parade has been named the Best Parade in the World, and this year, earned the Grand Pinnacle Award from the International Festivals and Events Organization. The McAllen Holiday Parade has also been named the Best Parade in Texas for the past five years by international and state event industry organizations.
The McAllen Holiday Parade is presented by H-E-B and powered by Bert Ogden Auto Group and proudly sponsored by McAllen International Airport, South Padre Island CVB and Reliant. Other sponsors for the 2022 presentation of the McAllen Holiday Parade include Budweiser, McAllen International Bridge System; McAllen Public Utility; Metro McAllen; South Texas Vo-Tech; Matt’s Building Materials; PepsiCo.; Winfield Communities; South Texas College; McDonald’s; Valley Aids Council; Driscoll Children’s Hospital; Chick-fil-A Rio Grande Valley; American Electric Power Foundation; McAllen Public Works Recycling; Peña Eye Institute; IBC; Lacks; McAllen Chamber of Commerce; Hermes; McAllen I.S.D.; Linebarger Attorneys at Law; General Mills; PNC Bank; O’Reilly Auto Parts; University of Texas-RGV; McAllen Economic Development Corp.; Chase; Doña Lula; Tres Lagos Master Planned Community; Pollux Castor Creative; Explore McAllen; Plains Capital Bank; KSA Engineers; Cigna; Marco’s Pizza; Taco Palenque; Halff Associates; Carollo Engineers; B2Z Engineering; S&B Infrastructure; Raba Kistner Consultants, Inc.
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. (PHOTO: Texas Military Department)
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 325,000 migrant apprehensions and more than 21,900 criminal arrests, with more than 19,400 felony charges reported. In the fight against fentanyl, DPS has seized over 352 million lethal doses of fentanyl during this border mission.
Texas has also bused almost 8,400 migrants to our nation’s capital since April, over 3,800 migrants to New York City since August 5, and more than 1,200 migrants to Chicago since August 31. This week, the first bus of migrants departed for Philadelphia from Texas (story below). The busing mission is providing much-needed relief to our overwhelmed border communities.
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 Biden’s open border policies.
Governor Abbott this week sent a letter to President Joe Biden highlighting the record-breaking level of illegal immigration at America’s southern border caused by the President’s sustained dereliction of duty enforcing the nation’s immigration laws. The Governor notes that the federal government’s failure to execute America’s immigration laws has forced the State of Texas to protect its own territory.
“Two years of inaction on your part now leave Texas with no choice but to escalate our efforts to secure our State,” reads the letter. “Your open-border policies, which have catalyzed an unprecedented crisis of illegal immigration, are the sole cause of Texas having to invoke our constitutional authority to defend ourselves.”
The Governor’s letter outlines America’s current immigration laws the President must enforce to satisfy the federal government’s constitutional obligation to safeguard its citizens, including:
Aggressively prosecuting illegal entry and illegal reentry.
Complying with laws mandating that various categories of aliens “shall” be detained.
Stopping parole for aliens en masse in violation of the Illegal Immigration Reform and Immigrant Responsibility Act of 1996.
Fully reinstating the Migrant Protection Protocols, such that aliens seeking admission remain in Mexico while proceedings unfold in the United States.
Immediately resuming construction of the border wall in Texas, using the billions of dollars Congress has appropriated for that purpose.
Governor Greg Abbott on Wednesday ordered DPS and the Texas Military Department (TMD) to expand their unprecedented efforts to combat the growing illegal immigration along the Texas-Mexico border. In a letter to DPS Director Steve McCraw and TMD Adjutant General Thomas Suelzer, the Governor outlined the need for the Operation Lone Star partners to defend Texas against what amounts to an invasion of America’s southern border.
“Until Congress acts or the Biden Administration does its constitutionally required job, Texas guardsmen and troopers must bear the burden of securing the border,” reads the letter. “I order you to use all resources and tools available to repel immigrants from attempting to cross illegally, arrest those who cross illegally and return them to the border, and arrest criminals who violate Texas law.”
On Monday, the Governor sent a letter to county judges in Texas explaining his Executive Order that invokes the Invasion Clauses of the U.S. and Texas Constitutions to fully authorize the unprecedented actions Texas is taking to secure the border amid an all-time record for illegal immigration, including devoting more than $4 billion toward border security and enhanced public safety measures.
As Governor of Texas and commander-in-chief of its military forces, Governor Abbott has used constitutional authority, other authorization, and Executive Orders for historic actions such as building a border wall in multiple counties along the border, designating Mexican drug cartels as foreign terrorist organizations, and repelling immigrants seeking to enter illegally.
On Tuesday, Governor Abbott announced the departure of the first group of migrants bused to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania from Texas. Philadelphia Mayor Jim Kenney has long-celebrated and fought for sanctuary city status, making the city an ideal addition to Texas’ list of drop-off locations.
“Since April, Texas’ busing strategy has successfully provided much-needed relief to our border communities overwhelmed by the historic influx of migrants caused by President Biden’s reckless open border policies,” said Governor Abbott.
Following the resignation of Customs and Border Protection Commissioner Chris Magnus this week, DPS Lt. Chris Olivarez told Fox News that the ongoing border crisis will only be resolved if the Biden Administration reinstates the effective border policies President Trump enacted. Lt. Olivarez also described the staggering amount of smuggled fentanyl DPS troopers have seized in Texas.
“Unfortunately, unless there’s a significant change, we’re going to continue seeing this over the next two years,” said Lt. Olivarez. “We’re going to continue seeing mass migration, we’re going to continue seeing fentanyl pouring across the border, we’re going to continue seeing human smuggling events, and of course some of the illegal immigrants coming across will lose their lives. Not to mention the known gotaways and suspected terrorists coming across the border.”
Texas National Guard Assists With Apprehension Of Over 200 Illegal Immigrants
(PHOTO: Texas Military Department)
Texas National Guard soldiers assisted with the apprehension of more than 200 illegal immigrants in an incident earlier this month in Eagle Pass after a steady stream of illegal river crossings was reported.
“It is important to give out clear instructions when handling big groups like these before it turns into chaos,” said Staff Sgt. Ernesto Delgado. “A lot of the folks crossing become extremely disoriented and are not sure what is going on or what their next steps are.”
A human smuggler from California led DPS troopers on a high-speed vehicle pursuit in Val Verde County. The driver rammed through a ranch gate and drove onto a dirt road before eventually stopping and running into the brush along with 14 illegal immigrants.
The driver was arrested and charged with human smuggling. The 14 illegal immigrants from Mexico were apprehended and referred to Border Patrol.
DPS Finds 19 Illegal Immigrants Hiding In Vehicles, Stash House In Laredo
(PHOTO: Texas Department Of Public Safety)
As part of Operation Lone Star, DPS troopers stopped three vehicles concealing 19 illegal immigrants and located a stash house in Webb County. After noticing suspicious activity involving several vehicles in a parking lot in Laredo, DPS located a total of 15 illegal immigrants in three separate vehicles in three different locations. An additional four illegal immigrants were then located inside a suspected stash house.
The 19 illegal immigrants from Mexico, El Salvador, and Guatemala were referred to Border Patrol. Two individuals were also arrested and charged with human smuggling.
The ongoing border crisis had brought on a wave of crime in Mission before the Texas National Guard and DPS came to the assistance of overwhelmed local law enforcement.
“We really appreciate them being here; it’s a big plus for our community, the state, and our nation,” said Arturo Flores, Mission Police Department. “It shows presence and that we’re working in unity. It deters a lot of crime.”
Texas National Guard, DPS Practice Show-Of-Force Mass-Migration Response
(PHOTO: Texas Military Department)
Texas National Guard soldiers and DPS troopers held fortified positions along the Rio Grande River during a recent show-of-force mass-migration response exercise.
“The joint tactical environment helps train our troops in the event we need to respond to a mass-migration event with overwhelming force,” said Capt. Nerissa Rodriguez of the Texas Air National Guard and Director of Operations for Task Force South.
UTRGV held a press conference on Friday morning at the Edinburg Campus to update the university community and public about the expansion of the spirit programs and the creation of marching bands and football and women’s swimming and diving programs. Vice President and Director of Athletics Chasse Conque talks about the next steps for the new additions to UTRGV Athletics. (UTRGV Photo by Paul Chouy)
Texas Border Business
EDINBURG, Texas – The University of Texas System Board of Regents has approved the expansion of spirit programs and authorized the creation of marching bands and football and women’s swimming and diving programs for The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley.
The approval came Thursday, and includes an increase of the Intercollegiate Athletics Fee from $15 per credit hour to $26.25 per credit hour, as approved by the Fall 2021 student referendum. Funds generated by the fee increase allow for the expansion and addition of the following programs on UTRGV campuses:
Spirit programs on both the Brownsville and Edinburg campuses.
A Division I women’s swimming and diving program.
A Division I FCS football program.
Marching bands on both the Brownsville and Edinburg campuses.
The university held a press conference on Friday morning to update the campus community and public about the next steps for these new programs.
UTRGV President Guy Bailey said the addition of these programs is part of a bigger goal to expand and enhance the university’s campus life.
“Like I told the Board of Regents, our students deserve a traditional campus life experience, and this is an important step in the right direction,” Bailey said. “What’s exceptional about these specific campus life initiatives is that they represent academics, student life, and athletics. These areas are coming together to provide a better university experience for our students and our entire campus community.”
UTRGV President Guy Bailey at the Friday morning press conference in Edinburg. Bailey said the addition of these programs is part of a bigger goal to expand and enhance the university’s campus life. (UTRGV Photo by Paul Chouy)
The increase in the intercollegiate athletics fee will be for new incoming students, starting Fall 2022 and beyond, and graduating students who return for another degree. Current students who remain within the UTRGV established Guaranteed Tuition and Fees program will not have to paythe fee increase. The increase will be reflected on students’ billing statements starting with registration for Academic Year 2023-2024.
More than 5,000 UTRGV students voted in November 2021 in favor of the proposal to support programs aided by an increase in the intercollegiate athletics fee. Voter turnout was the largest to date for any UTRGV student vote.
EXPANDING UTRGV ATHLETICS
With the addition of football and women’s swimming and diving programs, UTRGV’s goal is to increase opportunities for student-athletes, while also providing programming to enhance campus life.
“This is another milestone moment in a process that will soon transform UTRGV and the Rio Grande Valley,” UTRGV Vice President and Director of Athletics Chasse Conque said. “We have already experienced incredible support for and interest in sport expansion, and we are looking forward to ‘Rallying the Valley’ around our new programs as we launch women’s swimming & diving and football.”
UTRGV Athletics’ 16 programs will be enhanced by the newly added sports and boost the number of student-athletes by about 130. Incorporation of the new programs also will bring the construction of a 48,000-square-foot Vaqueros Performance Center, which will include a weight room, academic learning center and sports medicine facility that will be shared by several athletics programs including football.
ARE YOU READY FOR UTRGV FOOTBALL?
The level of excitement and support for a UTRGV football team, both on campus and across the Rio Grande Valley, is high, and is evident by the funding raised locally for the program.
Established by UTRGV Athletics, the Football Founders Society – a group of loyal donors helping the football program hit the ground running – already has raised $1.5 million.
Along with the UTRGV Foundation’s $1 million allocation to supplement the expansion of spirit programs and the establishment of two marching bands, women’s swimming and diving, and football, UTRGV already has generated $2.5 million in support of sport expansion.
The fiscal year timeline for the building of the UTRGV football program includes:
UTRGV cheer team members are all smiles after the press conference announcing the expansion of the spirit programs and addition of new sports programs. (UTRGV Photo by Paul Chouy)
Fiscal Year 2023 – The hiring of a head football coach and two coordinators in preparation for the program’s first competitive season in FY 2026.
FY 2024 – The remaining assistant coaches and support staff will be hired.
FY 2024 – Signing of the first recruiting class.
FY 2025 – The football program conducts a practice year.
FY 2025 & FY 2026 – The expected football roster will be named to include 60 and 90 student-athletes, respectively.
FY 2025 – First football game to be played.
Beginning with the program’s first year of competition, UTRGV will be recognized as a full member of Division I FCS, eligible for NCAA postseason, and play a full Western Athletic Conference schedule.
DIVE IN FOR SUCCESS
UTRGV Athletics plans to hire a head coach for women’s swimming and diving in summer 2023 with the first competition scheduled for fall 2024. The expected roster is approximately 35 student-athletes. In partnership with the City of Pharr, UTRGV’s swimming and diving student-athletes will practice and compete in the City of Pharr Natatorium, a newly constructed, state-of-the-art facility that opened in February 2022.
On Feb. 22-25, UTRGV Athletics is co-hosting the 2023 Western Athletic Conference Swimming & Diving Championships with the City of Pharr at the natatorium. This is a crucial first step for the sport expansion, as UTRGV will get the opportunity to showcase the natatorium and university on a national stage, as well as introduce the Rio Grande Valley to Division I swimming and diving. The meet will be broadcast on ESPN+.
THE SPIRIT OF UTRGV
The addition of marching bands and expansion of spirit programs – cheer, dance and mascot teams – will create more than 250 new opportunities for student involvement. School spirit and pride will be enhanced on both the Brownsville and Edinburg campuses with performances by the marching band and spirit program.
“We are looking forward to the excitement and the connections the spirit programs and marching band will build and foster among our students, university community and throughout the Rio Grande Valley,” Dr. Maggie Hinojosa, senior vice president for Strategic Enrollment and Student Affairs, said. “Creating a robust and high-quality student life experience for our Vaqueros is at the heart of UTRGV. These new initiatives will be key in enhancing the campus experience and boosting school spirit and pride for our students.”
Isela ‘Sel’ Gomez, a UTRGV alumna, was hired recently as head coach for the Spirit Program. She will lead the UTRGV cheer, dance and mascot teams, whose primary focus is to increase Vaquero spirit on campus and in the community, and to enhance and create traditions for Vaquero fans and alumni.
Also hired was Rudy Mata, a Midwestern State University graduate, who will serve as the new program coordinator for Spirit and Traditions. He will support Gomez with administrative responsibilities for the program and will help manage requests for team appearances and performances. He also will work with Student Activities to plan campus events that incorporate the spirit program.
In addition to collaborating with UTRGV Athletics, the marching band will perform as a whole or in parts, at events throughout the Valley.
The marching band will be unique as there will bands in Brownsville and Edinburg that will come together for rehearsals, and performances at football games and competitions. The UTRGV Division of Strategic Enrollment and Student Affairs is developing a competitive scholarship and/or stipend program to ensure UTRGV is successful in recruiting the Rio Grande Valley’s best musicians.
Full implementation of the spirit program expansion is expected in FY 2025 and the first year of marching band participation will begin in FY 2026.
Also approved by the UT System Board of Regents on Thursday was the purchase of land, located at 501 W. Kuhn Street, near the northeast corner of W. Kuhn Street and N. 6th Avenue in Edinburg. The land will be used for the expansion of campus housing.
The Rio Grande Valley Chapter of the American Advertising Federation (AAF) is sponsoring a “Time to Give, Grinches” bowling tournament with all proceeds going to food pantries at local colleges and universities. Courtesy Image
Texas Border Business
The Rio Grande Valley Chapter of the American Advertising Federation (AAF) is sponsoring a “Time to Give, Grinches” bowling tournament with all proceeds going to food pantries at local colleges and universities.
It’s all part of a public service initiative to give back to the community.
The AAF is considered the unifying voice of advertising and is made up of members that work at advertising agencies and marketing departments Valley-wide.
“We wanted to take on a meaningful cause and make a difference,” explained A.B. Barrera who serves as 2nd Lt. Governor of the AAF 10th District made up of chapters in Arkansas, Louisiana, Oklahoma and Texas. “We’ve learned that some of our students today have to choose between buying lunch or putting gas in their cars to get to class. It’s been an ongoing problem, but the recent pandemic really brought the issue to light.”
According to the Agriculture Department, some 20 million American college and university students are facing hunger or food insecurity. The latter is defined as a household having “limited or uncertain access to adequate food.”
“This is not a local problem. This is a serious national issue,” said AAF-RGV Chapter President Maria Alvarez. “RGV colleges and universities all have food pantries to help their students and the AAF is doing its part to help these young men and women succeed at their education goals.”
Studies show that students who face insecurity about basic needs like food or housing are more likely to report experiencing poor physical health, symptoms of depression and higher stress. These same studies show that food insecurity may adversely affect students’ academic performance and ultimately impact graduation rates. In the long run, this can negatively impact a whole community.
At South Texas College, the greatest need is on the Starr County campus where the poverty rate is at 25% according to U.S. Census data.
“We not only give out food to the students; we make sure they are taking enough home for their families,” said Campus Administrator Arturo Montiel. “Any given month we have 40 to 50 students coming to the food pantry and we’re helping to feed anywhere from 165 to 200 family members.”
Local colleges and universities stock their food banks through special grants and donations or through partnerships with community food banks.
Recognizing the great need for help, the American Advertising Federation will host an ugly sweater bowling tournament Dec. 7. at Flamingo Bowl in McAllen. Twenty-four teams will vie for bragging rights and help raise funds to fight hunger. Sponsorships of different levels are available and teams of four can sign up for $150.
“It’s a chance to have fun, network with advertising folks and all for a great cause,” said AAF member and bowling tournament organizer Kim Selber. “If you can’t come out and bowl, you can still help by being a sponsor or even sending us an HEB gift card for the college food banks to distribute to students.”
To register your team, go online at aafrgv.org or to become a sponsor or donate, call Robin Bullard at 956-655-6824.
Bronze Star-decorated combat commander Colonel Lisa Carrington Firmin recently spoke to South Texas College students, staff and community members at the Technology campus auditorium as part of a series celebrating the 50th anniversary of Title IX. STC Image
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Bronze Star-decorated combat commander Colonel Lisa Carrington Firmin recently spoke to STC students, staff and community members at the Technology campus auditorium as part of a series celebrating the 50th anniversary of Title IX.
Title IX has been credited with profoundly changing education in the United States by barring sex discrimination in the nation’s schools.
Firmin, originally from the Rio Grande Valley, shared her life story, read passages from her new book “Stories from the Front: Pain, Betrayal, and Resilience on the MST Battlefield” and led a frank discussion on military sexual trauma, hardships and combat.
Firmin said she hoped students received the key message of the book, which is that this issue “affects anybody and everybody.”
“I think it’s important to put a lot of programs like this in front of students so they understand what’s going on in the world,” Firmin said. “This is part of social justice and it’s part of equity for all. They need to understand that not everybody gets treated the same way. This is a unique opportunity to talk about sexual assault, sexual harassment, as well as disparities while serving.”
Firmin became the first in her family to graduate from college when she earned her bachelor’s degree from Texas A&M University-Kingsville. From the time she was a young girl, Firmin said knew she wanted to be a leader, which influenced her decision to join the Air Force. At 21, she was the sole female officer in a squadron of fighter pilots in New Mexico. When Firmin retired as a colonel in 2010 she was the highest-ranking Latina in Air Force history at that time.
The colonel says she is proud of her service and the strong bonds she created with other military professionals, but acknowledges that now is the time to share the full reality of the harassment she endured early in her career.
“We need to make sure we talk about how just because you’re different doesn’t mean you should be treated differently,” Firmin said.
This was Firmin’s first time speaking at STC about her advocation for change within the armed services. Firmin said it took her many years to speak out, but encourages others to do the same when they are ready.
“I’m trying to destigmatize seeking therapy and destigmatize asking for help and standing up when things happen to you,” Firmin said. “You don’t have to be in a toxic work environment. You don’t have to endure these kinds of disparities. You can get help and it’s now against the law.”
The STC Library has partnered with the Department for Institutional Equity to present a series of events celebrating the 50th anniversary of Title IX, the US federal civil rights law that was enacted as part of the Education Amendments of 1972.
STC Librarian Elizabeth Hollenbeck said this speaker series also conveys a message of empowerment.
“I think it’s a topic that people are sometimes afraid to speak about or even express interest in hearing about,” Hollenbeck said. “I’m really grateful that we’ve had so much support. We’re doing this Title IX programming series and bringing in speakers to talk about different aspects of the importance of inclusion and empowering people.”
Carla Balleza, STC Cosmetology department instructor, said she was moved by Firmin’s presentation and thinks it’s important for people to continue to speak about their experiences and open a dialogue.
“It does help other women come forward and share their own story,” Balleza said. “A lot of times I feel like women, in general, but especially in the military, will keep it quiet because they’re afraid of retaliation. They feel embarrassed or ashamed, but in reality, there’s so many resources and help that they can receive if they just build up that courage to share their story.”
The next event in the library series will be a special Zoom webinar entitled “Transgender Protections Under Title IX” on Tuesday, Nov. 15 with attorney Andrew Ortiz from the Transgender Law Center. The webinar will look into how Title IX helps transgender students and what changes can be expected in the near future.
Registration is required but participants will be able to ask questions anonymously through the Zoom platform. This event is free and open to all. For more information about the series, visit library.southtexascollege.edu/category/library-events/.
DEL RIO, Texas – U.S. Border Patrol agents assigned to Del Rio Sector arrested two convicted sex offenders, in separate events, shortly after they illegally entered the United States, Nov. 14.
Eagle Pass agents, conducting line watch operations, encountered seven subjects attempting to avoid detection on a local ranch. All apprehended subjects were transported to the Eagle Pass processing center, where record checks revealed that Gregorio Chanelo-Ixta, 35, a Mexican national, was convicted of lewd or lascivious act with a child, in Santa Ana, California, in 2006. He was sentenced to six years confinement and most recently deported in 2011.
Del Rio agents, conducting line watch operations, encountered six subjects attempting to avoid detection near a local ranch. All apprehended subjects were transported to the Del Rio processing center, where record checks revealed that Jorge Mendoza-Zamilpa, 70, a Mexican national, was convicted of assault to commit rape, in Santa Clara, California, in 1986. He was sentenced to three years confinement and most recently deported in 1997.
As convicted felons, they face a charge of 8 USC § 1326 – Re-entry after Deportation, which carries a maximum sentence of up to 20 years in prison.
All subjects are processed in accordance with U.S. Customs and Border Protection policies.
To report suspicious activity, call the Del Rio Sector’s toll-free number at 1-866-511-8727.
