The sale includes three available tracts totaling 10.82 acres. Bidding closes on Thursday, April 16, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. Courtesy image
Texas Border Business
AUSTIN, Texas — Texas Land Commissioner and Veterans Land Board (VLB) Chairwoman Dawn Buckingham, M.D., announced that the VLB’s Veterans-Only Land Sale is now open for bidding. The sale includes three available tracts totaling 10.82 acres. Bidding closes on Thursday, April 16, 2026, at 5:00 p.m.
In January, the VLB approved an increase for the VLB standard land loan amount from $150,000 to $200,000 and the dual-spouse land loan amount from $225,000 to $275,000.
Click the button below to view the land tracks and place a bid:
Veterans and Military Members may bid on more than one tract. A Veteran or Military Member whose bid is accepted may apply for a VLB Land Loan at a 7.25% interest rate, with a 30-year term and a minimum 5% down payment.
The VLB will finance up to the minimum bid amount. The awardee must pay any amount offered over the minimum bid at closing. The maximum loan amount provided through the VLB Land Loan Program is $200,000 for individual eligible Veteran borrowers and $275,000 for Veteran spouses who are both individually eligible to use the program. VLB land loans can also be used to purchase other non-commercial land that is one acre or more and meets VLB requirements.
Click the button below to learn more about the VLB Veterans-Only Land Sale rules:
Canelon Aguirre is wanted for allegedly leading a large international conspiracy that deploys numerous crews to the U.S. to steal millions of dollars from financial institutions in support of the Tren de Aragua (TdA) transnational gang. Image courtesy of FBI
Texas Border Business
U.S Department of Justice
Anibal Alexander Canelon Aguirre has been added to the FBI’s Ten Most Wanted Fugitives list. Canelon Aguirre is wanted for allegedly leading a large international conspiracy that deploys numerous crews to the U.S. to steal millions of dollars from financial institutions in support of the Tren de Aragua (TdA) transnational gang. TdA is a designated foreign terrorist organization that originated in Venezuela and now operates throughout Latin America and the U.S.
“The money that TdA has stolen from communities across the U.S. is being used to fund numerous criminal activities, including drug trafficking, human trafficking, weapons trafficking, and violent crimes,” said FBI Omaha Special Agent in Charge Eugene Kowel. “Canelon Aguirre’s leadership in this scheme is directly contributing financially to the whole host of TdA criminal activities.”
Since at least January 2024, Canelon Aguirre and other members of the conspiracy are alleged to have unlawfully enriched themselves by committing ATM jackpotting. In this scheme, malware is installed on ATMs to force the unauthorized withdrawal of cash, after which the stolen cash flows through a complex money laundering network.
Image courtesy of FBI
“We believe Canelon Aguirre is the developer of this malware that’s targeted hundreds of financial institutions across our country,” said Kowel. “When the malware is installed on ATMs, they can dispense large amounts of cash that are not linked to any individual account. Canelon Aguirre is constantly modifying his malware to defeat protections that financial institutions put on the ATMs and is expanding the range of machines that could be potential targets.”
On December 9, 2025, a federal arrest warrant was issued for Canelon Aguirre in the U.S. District Court, District of Nebraska, Omaha, Nebraska, after he was charged with conspiracy to commit bank fraud; conspiracy to commit bank burglary and intentionally damage a protected computer system; conspiracy to commit money laundering; and conspiracy to provide material support to terrorists.
On March 12, 2026, the FBI added Canelon Aguirre to its Ten Most Wanted Fugitives list.
Kowel explained what made him a candidate for the list: “He’s evaded law enforcement since around 2017, when ATM jackpotting first began occurring in the U.S. Since that time, there has been over 1,800 jackpotting incidents reported throughout the U.S., with reported losses of over $55 million.
“ATM jackpotting attempts happen in our country almost daily, and he is connected to many of these. We are working hard with all our partners to both identify the individuals responsible and track the money back. He has been on our radar for a while, and we’re hoping that bringing attention to him and to his crimes will help us obtain information, ultimately leading to his apprehension and arrest.”
By investigating Canelon Aguirre, the FBI is also striving to learn more about TdA to take them down.
“It’s important to remember that although this is the first cybercrime subject that has been placed on the FBI’s Ten Most Wanted Fugitives list, the money that is being stolen is being used to fund a variety of violent crimes, from human trafficking to drug trafficking to weapons trafficking and other crimes,” said Kowel. “We believe by stopping the flow of money by holding people like Canelon Aguirre responsible for their activities, we’ll have a significant role in mitigating the activities of TdA across the country and the globe.”
Canelon Aguirre is 49 years old and has black and gray hair and brown eyes. He is between 5’5” and 5’7” tall and weighs about 190 pounds.
Canelon Aguirre was born in Venezuela and has ties to Venezuela and Mexico. He is known to speak Spanish.
He may also go by the name of Prometheus, The Engineer, Anibal Alexander Aguirre, Anibal A. Canelon-Aguirre, Anibal Alexander Canelon.
The FBI is offering up to $1 million for information leading to Canelon Aguirre’s capture.
If you have any information about Canelon Aguirre please contact the FBI’s toll-free tipline at 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324). You may also contact your local FBI office, the nearest American Embassy or Consulate, you can submit a tip online at tips.fbi.gov.
“We’re really hoping this reward will encourage people who may have information about his whereabouts to call us. They can do so anonymously, and they can do so without attribution,” said Kowel. “Any information they provide that can help us identify his location and bring him to justice will be rewarded.”
A soldier assigned to the 101st Airborne Division operates an unmanned aircraft system by using a headset during a live-fire exercise at Fort Campbell, Ky., March 12, 2026. The exercise was designed to test the integration of UAS to support ground forces. Photo credit: Army Spc. Sandy Vera via US DOW
The 101st Airborne Division tested its ability to integrate unmanned aircraft systems to support ground forces during a live-fire exercise, March 12 at Fort Campbell, Kentucky.
“We are no strangers to innovation here on Fort Campbell,” said Army Brig. Gen. Travis McIntosh, deputy commanding general of operations for the division. “Drones are reshaping the geometry of the battlefield in real time and we must adjust. Distance and sanctuary no longer provide the protection they once did, and mass and speed of decision-making will increasingly be enabled by autonomy and [artificial intelligence]. This event tested and proved these assumptions for us.”
Soldiers assigned to the 101st Airborne Division prepare an Attritable Battlefield Enabler 1.01 drone for flight during a live-fire exercise at Fort Campbell, Ky., March 12, 2026. Photo Credit: Army Sgt. Parris Kersey via US DOW
Advancing Secretary of War Pete Hegseth’s directive for drone dominance, the division used UAS operators assigned to its 1st Mobile Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Mobile Brigade Combat Team and 101st Combat Aviation Brigade to fly multiple UAS alongside the 5th Special Forces Group.
The sortie, which consisted of an MQ-1C Gray Eagle, C100 small UAS and Attritable Battlefield Enabler 1.01 drone, provided aerial clearance for the Special Forces soldiers during the exercise.
“Drones are a great tool for over-the-hill reconnaissance,” said Army Spc. Basil Holland, an infantryman and small UAS operator assigned to the 1st Battalion, 502nd Infantry Regiment. “They have a lot of ability to identify short- and medium-range targets and get eyes on whatever you need. It’s proven to be super useful.”
U.S. Army Reserve Command representatives attended to learn more about how the 101st incorporates emerging technologies.
Army Spc. Basil Holland, assigned to the 101st Airborne Division, prepares a C100 small unmanned aircraft system for a live-fire exercise at Fort Campbell, Ky., March 12, 2026. Photo credit: Army Sgt. Parris Kersey via US DOW
“We wanted to get a clear understanding of how the big Army is integrating UAS,” said Sammy Stevens, a counter-UAS lead planner for USARC. “We want to try and replicate their efforts with the [Army] Reserve. During counterinsurgency operations, everyone was used to looking down to identify improvised explosive devices; now we have to look up in the air.”
Partnering with USARC highlights the division’s commitment to improving lethality for the entire Army.
“The 101st has been very gracious in supporting us,” said Army Master Sgt. Bryan Pettaway, USARC senior enlisted advisor for operations and logistics. “By showing us what has worked, and what hasn’t, they have helped us avoid those same mistakes.”
The exercise validated the division’s ability to operate UAS in a kinetic, multidomain setting. This successful pairing of systems and soldiers ensures the 101st Airborne Division remains at the forefront of Army transformation efforts.
“Today’s demonstration was a direct answer to the secretary of war’s directive,” said Army Chief Warrant Officer 2 Page Frazier, the exercise coordinator and member of the 101st Robotics and Autonomous Integration Directorate. “We did some unorthodox things and always made first contact with a machine. … And I don’t think any other exercise has done that. We leveraged modern technology to set conditions for a safe employment of a ground force.”
“I am superbly proud of the teamwork, from both the operational and institutional sides of the Army, as well as the conventional [forces] and Special Forces on Fort Campbell,” McIntosh said. “This exercise demonstrates one of the many ways we will dominate in tomorrow’s fight.”
RGV Startup Week, the Rio Grande Valley’s premier celebration of entrepreneurship and innovation, announced Ramón Soler Mallet, Commercial Director of Dr. Simi USA, as the keynote speaker for its 2026 edition. Courtesy image
Texas Border Business
BROWNSVILLE, Texas — RGV Startup Week, the Rio Grande Valley’s premier celebration of entrepreneurship and innovation, announced Ramón Soler Mallet, Commercial Director of Dr. Simi USA, as the keynote speaker for its 2026 edition. Soler Mallet will take the stage on Monday, April 27, from 3:30 to 5:00 p.m. at the eBridge Center in Brownsville, delivering a keynote that is free and open to the public. With more than 25 years leading iconic global brands and a front-row seat to one of the most talked-about brand launches on social media in recent years, his session promises to be one of the most compelling conversations the Valley has ever hosted.
Now in its third edition, RGV Startup Week will run April 24 through May 1, 2026, and is headquartered in Brownsville, with events across partner cities throughout the Rio Grande Valley. The week-long celebration brings together students, early-stage founders, established companies, investors, and ecosystem partners through a mix of keynotes, workshops, pitch competitions, and community activities. Building on a remarkable 2025 edition that drew 1,850 registrants, 168 speakers, 95 sessions, and generated 3.56 million content views, the 2026 edition is set to be the biggest yet.
RGV Startup Week is co-organized by the Brownsville Community Improvement Corporation (BCIC) in collaboration with the UTRGV Entrepreneurship & Commercialization Center (ECC). Past keynote speakers include Vicente Fox, former President of Mexico, underscoring the event’s growing national and international prominence.
Courtesy image
About the Keynote: Ramón Soler Mallet
Ramón Soler Mallet leads the U.S. expansion of Dr. Simi, one of Latin America’s most recognizable brands. As Commercial Director of Dr. Simi USA, he is responsible for shaping the brand’s retail and digital strategy as it enters the American market. Dr. Simi is part of Farmacias Similares, one of the largest pharmacy chains in the world, with more than 11,000 locations across Mexico, Chile, Colombia, and the United States, built around the mission of making healthcare more accessible and affordable. Known for its viral presence and cultural impact across social media, Dr. Simi has become a global phenomenon, capturing attention far beyond traditional retail and redefining how brands connect with communities.
With more than two decades of experience building consumer brands, Soler previously worked with Nexxus Capital platforms, serving as Director of Krispy Kreme Mexico and COO of Taco Holding, a multi-brand restaurant group, while also sitting on the Krispy Kreme Latin America board. He later oversaw the Tommy Hilfiger and Crate & Barrel brands in Mexico for Grupo Axo. He has also served on the board of SinDelantal (prior to its acquisition by Just Eat), Give Move, and Mind.
His keynote session, rooted in the philosophy of “lo mismo, pero más barato” (“the same, for less”) explores how bold ideas cross borders, how community-first businesses create lasting loyalty, and what the Rio Grande Valley’s entrepreneurs can learn from one of the most unexpected viral brand stories in global retail.
“The Rio Grande Valley is the kind of community Dr. Simi hopes to serve — a place with strong culture, resilience, and entrepreneurial energy. I’m looking forward to a genuine conversation, sharing ideas, and connecting with the people who make this region special.”
— Ramón Soler Mallet, Commercial Director, Dr. Simi USA
Organizer Perspectives
“At BCIC, we are intentional about building platforms that elevate the Rio Grande Valley and position our region as a leader in entrepreneurship and innovation. RGV Startup Week is a reflection of that commitment. Bringing Ramón Soler Mallet and the Dr. Simi story to our community is about more than a keynote, it is about exposing our entrepreneurs to bold, globally relevant ideas that challenge and inspire what is possible here at home.”
— Cori Peña, President & CEO, Brownsville Community Improvement Corporation
“At UTRGV, we are committed to advancing a dynamic innovation ecosystem that empowers students, founders, and industry leaders. We believe entrepreneurship education is most impactful when individuals can see themselves reflected in real-world success stories. Ramón Soler Mallet’s journey spanning industries, borders, and a deep commitment to community embodies the global perspective and transformative leadership we strive to cultivate. We are proud to co-organize an event that brings this level of inspiration and opportunity to the Rio Grande Valley.”
— Linda Ufland, Director, UTRGV Entrepreneurship & Commercialization Center
Event Details & Free RSVP
Attendance at the keynote session is free. Space is limited and expected to fill quickly. RSVP is required.
South Texas College (STC) has helped shape the entrepreneurial journey of sisters Kaitlyn and Alexiah Tirado, whose passion for coffee and business recently led them to open Daily Dose Coffee RGV, a new coffee shop in their hometown of Weslaco. STC image
Texas Border Business
By Veronica Salinas
South Texas College (STC) has helped shape the entrepreneurial journey of sisters Kaitlyn and Alexiah Tirado, whose passion for coffee and business recently led them to open Daily Dose Coffee RGV, a new coffee shop in their hometown of Weslaco.
With one sister currently pursuing a Business Administration degree and the other a recent graduate of the same program, the sisters credit their experience at STC for helping them develop the knowledge, confidence and skill needed to launch and grow their business.
Kaitlyn Tirado, 25, is currently studying Business Administration while balancing the responsibilities of being a small business owner. Inspired by her sister’s path through the program, Kaitlyn decided to continue her education while building Daily Dose Coffee RGV.
“I grew up in a family of entrepreneurs, so business has always been a part of my life,” Kaitlyn said. “This program has allowed me to deepen my knowledge so I can continue growing my own business and also help support and expand my family’s businesses.”
Balancing college and launching a business has not been easy, but Kaitlyn says the experience has helped her develop discipline and strong time management skills.
“The journey has definitely been challenging, but it has also been incredibly rewarding,” she said. “I’m learning in two ways now – through textbooks and lectures in class and through hands-on experience running our business.”
Through her coursework, Kaitlyn has gained valuable insight into the many moving parts behind running a company.
“One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that business involves much more than just making sales,” she said. “It includes marketing, accounting, taxes, inventory management, customer service, branding and understanding regulations.”
One course that left a lasting impression was Accounting.
“My sister and I were fortunate to have Professor Cynthia Sanchez, who laid a strong foundation for understanding business finances,” Kaitlyn said. “At first, I never imagined that concepts like assets equal liabilities plus owner’s equity would play such an important role in running my own business, but those lessons have helped us make smarter financial decisions.”
Her education has given her the confidence to approach business decisions more strategically.
“My education has helped me think more critically before making investments or major decisions,” she said. “It has helped me grow not only as a business owner, but also as a person.”
For Alexiah Tirado, the path to entrepreneurship began even earlier.
At just 18 years old, she graduated from STC with an associate degree in Business Administration after participating in the college’s Dual Enrollment Business Administration Academy, which allows students to begin earning college credit while still in high school.
“Graduating with my associate degree in Business Administration from STC gave me a strong foundation both in my life and in my business,” she said. “Through my classes, I learned about management, marketing, finance and how businesses operate daily, which helped me make better decisions.”
The sisters initially launched Daily Dose Coffee RGV as a mobile coffee business, serving specialty drinks at events across the RGV., allowingthem to build their brand while keeping startup costs manageable.
“It gave us the flexibility to bring our coffee to different places and events while keeping our startup costs lower,” Alexiah said. “It also allowed us to grow our customer base and connect with different communities.”
Their dedication and growing customer support eventually led them to open a brick-and-mortar shop in Weslaco.
“It was an amazing feeling to officially open our coffee shop in Weslaco,” the sisters said. “It’s our hometown and the place where we grew up. Being able to serve the same community that has supported us means so much.”
Despite their success, the early months came with challenges. Alexiah says many people doubted her because of her age.
“It was discouraging at times, but it also motivated me to work harder and prove that age is not a factor in entrepreneurship,” she said.
Through it all, the sisters say their bond has been one of the biggest influences behind their success.
“Our bond has helped us grow the business because of the trust and support we have for each other,” they said. “Having that strong relationship makes it easier to work as a team and motivates us to keep pushing forward.”
As young Latina entrepreneurs in the Rio Grande Valley, Alexiah says representing STC and their community is something she carries with pride.
“It feels amazing to represent such a great school like STC,” she said. “I’m proud to show that hard work, determination and education can help you achieve your goals.”
Looking ahead, the sisters hope to continue growing Daily Dose Coffee RGV and potentially expand beyond the Rio Grande Valley.
STC alumnus Juan Gloria began his fire service career at 15 and now leads more than 180 firefighters as chief of the McAllen Fire Department. STC image
Texas Border Business
By Selene Rodriguez
Starting his career in fire at just 15 years old, McAllen Fire Chief and South Texas College alumnus Juan Gloria worked his way through the ranks after moving to the United States as a teenager and overcoming language barriers. Today, he leads more than 180 firefighters at the McAllen Fire Department.
A proud Jaguar, Gloria credits STC and his associate degree in Fire Science as an important part of the journey that helped shape his leadership today.
“Having the opportunity to earn my education at STC gave me the confidence to believe in myself and keep going,” he said. “STC is a huge asset for our community. It becomes a hook for many to start their careers and fall in love with the fire service.”
Although he was born in McAllen, Gloria, 48, was raised in Nuevo Laredo, Mexico. As the son of a musician, he grew up moving frequently as his father traveled for work.
It was there that Gloria first found himself drawn to the fire service. As a teenager, he began spending time around a local fire station where curiosity quickly turned into purpose. At just 15 years old, he was offered the opportunity to become a firefighter.
“When I started, I just loved it,” Gloria said. “I loved the fire service and helping people. I realized right away this was what I wanted to do with my life.”
When Gloria moved to the Rio Grande Valley in 1996, he was just 17 years old. He spoke little English and had no relatives in the U.S.
He began volunteering with the Hidalgo Fire Department and after earning his Texas firefighter certification in 1997 he was hired by the city of Pharr.
Without a permanent place to live, Gloria spent much of his time at fire stations while continuing his work and training. While working full time in Pharr, he also volunteered and later worked part time with the Edinburg Fire Department where a dorm program allowed volunteers to live at the station while assisting the department.
“That program thankfully allowed me to have a place to stay. I was literally living at the fire station,” Gloria said. “I was very grateful. I stayed involved with the Edinburg Fire Department for nearly 15 years, working part time and building my career.”
In June 2001, Gloria joined the McAllen Fire Department, beginning what would become a decades-long career of service to the community.
By 2015, now a devoted husband and father of three and serving as deputy chief of training, Gloria decided to pursue higher education to further his skills and knowledge. He enrolled at STC to earn an associate degree in Fre Science.
“I didn’t know it at the time, but that degree prepared me for what was coming next,” Gloria said. “It was never my intention to become chief. The opportunity presented itself, but thanks to my degree I felt prepared to take on that responsibility.”
Recognized for his experience and leadership within the department, Gloria was appointed assistant chief in 2020, a role selected directly by the fire chief.
Three years later, when the department’s chief announced his retirement, Gloria stepped in as interim chief before being officially named to the position in May 2023.
“When I first started, I remember thinking about the things we needed and wishing we had more resources,” Gloria said. “Now in this position, I can work toward giving firefighters the tools they need to keep our community safe. The city of McAllen has been very supportive and believed in me throughout this journey, and I’m truly grateful.”
As he approaches his third year leading the department, Gloria says his focus is now on preparing the agency for the future, including plans to renovate facilities and invest in projects that may not become reality until long after he retires.
“Administration is such a different side of the fire service,” Gloria said. “You’re still wearing the uniform and you’re still a firefighter, but the work is completely different.”
Now, he says, the role is about thinking long term and ensuring future generations of firefighters have the tools and resources they need to serve the community.
“In the field, the reward is immediate. You help people. You save a life,” Gloria said. “In administration, it takes time. You’re working on things that may take years to see completed, but knowing those efforts will help firefighters and keep the community safe makes it incredibly fulfilling.”
Laredo City Manager Joe Neeb, ICMA-CM, CEcD, CPM. Courtesy image. Bgd for illustration purposes
Texas Border Business
From the City Manager’s Office | March 2026
In recent weeks, there has been significant public discussion about the proposed wall-and-buoy system along the Rio Grande. These conversations have included strong language and serious concerns about potential impacts to our river, infrastructure, and community.
As City Manager, I want to provide clarity on how the City of Laredo is approaching this issue.
Recognizing Community Concern
The concerns expressed by residents are real and understandable. When terms such as “catastrophic flooding” are used, they naturally create urgency. The safety of our residents and the protection of our infrastructure remain our top priorities.
Understanding the Current Report
The report commissioned by the Rio Grande International Study Center (RGISC), which has been widely discussed, identifies potential risks associated with river infrastructure. However, it was prepared without access to engineering design specifications, hydraulic modeling, or construction details associated with the proposed federal project. As the report itself notes, key elements rely on assumed dimensions and inferred risks.
This type of analysis is useful for identifying questions, but it does not provide definitive conclusions about what will occur under actual project conditions.
In engineering, there is a clear distinction between identifying a possible outcome and determining whether it is likely. Terms such as “catastrophic” describe severity—not certainty. Determining likelihood requires project-specific data, which has not yet been made available.
Understanding Laredo’s Flood Risk
Flood risk along the Rio Grande is not new. The 2010 flood demonstrated how structures—including homes and semitrailers—can enter the river, creating obstructions that affect flow and debris patterns. These conditions are similar to concerns being discussed today.
At the same time, much of the available river data is dated, and conditions have changed over time. This creates uncertainty when relying solely on historical information.
Because of this, the City’s responsibility extends beyond any single project. It must consider how any structure, public or private, within or near the floodway could impact water movement, debris transport, and public safety.
Approaching the Question of a Study
There have been calls for the City to immediately conduct a study. The City is not opposed to a study, but the key question is what type of study is appropriate and what it should evaluate.
Depending on the scope, a comprehensive study could represent a significant public investment. Any study must be properly defined to produce meaningful, defensible results.
Without project-specific design information, a study would rely on assumptions and may not provide actionable or supportable conclusions.
A defensible study must:
Be based on actual design specifications
Include hydraulic modeling
Evaluate impacts to City infrastructure
Involve multiple engineering disciplines
Defining the Right Study
If a study is undertaken, it should not be limited to one project. It should evaluate flood risks comprehensively across the river corridor, including impacts to:
Bridges
Water and wastewater facilities
Public spaces
Residential and private development
This broader approach ensures the City is addressing long-term flood risk—not reacting to a single issue.
What the City Has Already Done
The City has been actively engaged on this issue since November 2025, when the Mayor was first briefed. Early discussions confirmed that alternative border security approaches could be considered, particularly in areas where standard designs may not be appropriate.
The City retained Jackson Walker to support federal negotiations and has since been working with federal partners on Right-of-Entry discussions to balance project objectives with the protection of City interests.
In January 2026, the Mayor, City Manager, and City Attorney, along with Jackson Walker, met in Washington, D.C. with CBP, the State Department, and our federal delegation, including Senators Cruz and Cornyn and Congressman Cuellar. These discussions focused on protecting Laredo’s infrastructure and advancing alternative solutions.
Congressman Cuellar also pursued legislative options for targeted exclusions within Laredo. While not successful at that time, additional opportunities may arise as the project evolves.
The City has also conducted community outreach through polling and surveys and has developed alternative border security concepts, including hybrid and dual-purpose solutions that address both security and flood concerns.
Community Advisory Effort
The City of Laredo, through a motion by the Mayor, established a Laredo Citizen Border Advisory Committee to bring community voices into border-related discussions.
This committee includes a diverse group of residents and stakeholders who will review information, assess potential impacts, and provide advisory input to City leadership.
This effort reflects our commitment to transparency, meaningful community engagement, and ensuring that decisions are informed by the perspectives and priorities of Laredo residents.
What the City Is Doing
The City is actively working to obtain engineering and design information from federal agencies, including CBP, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and the International Boundary and Water Commission. These efforts, recommended by Jackson Walker, are necessary to ensure any evaluation is based on the actual system being proposed rather than assumptions.
A Disciplined Path Forward
The City’s approach is clear:
Obtain engineering and design information
Evaluate available data
Define the appropriate scope
Determine whether a study is warranted
Our Responsibility
Our responsibility is not only to act, but to act correctly. Any position taken by the City must be based on verifiable, project-specific information that can withstand technical and legal scrutiny.
Moving Forward Together
The City of Laredo remains committed to protecting our residents, preserving our infrastructure, and ensuring our voice is heard.
We will move forward with both urgency and discipline to ensure that the decisions we make today protect Laredo’s future.
“The State of Texas will not observe the Cesar Chavez Day holiday. I am directing all Texas state agency heads to comply. In the upcoming legislative session, I will work with Texas lawmakers to remove Cesar Chavez Day from state law altogether. Image for illustration purposes
Texas Border Business
AUSTIN – Governor Greg Abbott released the following statement regarding the allegations against Cesar Chavez:
“The State of Texas will not observe the Cesar Chavez Day holiday. I am directing all Texas state agency heads to comply. In the upcoming legislative session, I will work with Texas lawmakers to remove Cesar Chavez Day from state law altogether.
“Reports of the horrific and widely acknowledged sexual assault allegations against Cesar Chavez rightfully dismantle the myth of this progressive hero and undermine the narrative that elevated Chavez as a figure worthy of official state celebration.”
The Justice Department has proposed a rule that will empower states to streamline federal habeas review of capital cases. These reforms will reduce by years the period between conviction and execution in state capital cases. Image for illustration purposes
Texas Border Business
U.S. Department of Justice
Attorney General Pamela Bondi
The Justice Department has proposed a rule that will empower states to streamline federal habeas review of capital cases. These reforms will reduce by years the period between conviction and execution in state capital cases.
“This proposed rule will help states achieve the promise of swift and effective justice for victims of capital crimes,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “We are fulfilling the Department of Justice’s commitment to restoring the death penalty as the ultimate punishment for the worst criminals in America.”
In Chapter 154 of Title 28 of the United States Code, Congress established an accelerated process for the review of federal habeas petitions arising from State capital cases, which otherwise can languish for years at various stages of federal adjudication. The expedited process is available to states that the Attorney General has certified as having established a postconviction capital counsel process including the appointment, compensation, and payment of reasonable litigation expenses of competent counsel.
Since the law’s enactment in 1996, and amendment in 2006, no state has taken advantage of these streamlined procedures—in large part due to the Department’s imposition of additional and heightened barriers on certification. The proposed rule, once finalized, will eliminate these obstacles to certification, enabling more prompt decision of States’ requests for certification. It also will make certification decisions final as opposed to a five-year limited term—a reform that should encourage more states to apply for certification.
The proposed rule advances President Trump’s January 20 executive orderRestoring the Death Penalty and Promoting Public Safety and its mandate to ensure that the laws that authorize capital punishment are respected and faithfully implemented and Attorney General Bondi’s promise in her February memorandum Reviving the Federal Death Penalty and Lifting the Moratorium on Federal Executions to assist States in prosecuting capital crimes and implementing death sentences.
The public is invited to participate in this rulemaking by submitting written data, views, or arguments on all aspects of this rule through the methods outlined in the Federal Register notice.
A 77-year-old Brownsville resident has been ordered to federal prison following the discovery of homemade videos depicting the sexual assault of a child. Image for illustration purposes
Texas Border Business
U.S. Attorney’s Office, Southern District of Texas
BROWNSVILLE, Texas – A 77-year-old resident has been ordered to federal prison following the discovery of homemade videos depicting the sexual assault of a child.
U.S. District Judge Fernando Rodriguez Jr. has now ordered Camarillo to serve 121 months in federal prison to be immediately followed by three years of supervised release. During that time, he will have to comply with numerous requirements designed to restrict his access to children and the internet. Camarillo will also be ordered to register as a sex offender. Restitution will be determined at a later date.
In January 2024, authorities discovered Rosendo Camarillo-Jimemez had been sexually assaulting children for years.
The investigation led to the execution of a search warrant at his residence where law enforcement found homemade videos of Camarillo-Jimemez sexually assaulting a child. The videos were timestamped as created in 2003.
Camarillo will remain in custody pending transfer to a Federal Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.
Immigration and Customs Enforcement – Homeland Security Investigations, Rio Grande Valley Child Exploitations Investigations Task Force conducted the investigation.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ana C. Cano prosecuted the case, which was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative the Department of Justice launched in May 2006 to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section leads PSC, which marshals federal, state and local resources to locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children and identifies and rescues victims. For more information about PSC, please visit DOJ’s PSC page. For more information about internet safety education, please visit the resources tab on that page.
