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Cesar Chavez Foundation Responds to Allegations Against Labor Icon

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Cesar Chavez Foundation Responds to Allegations Against Labor Icon
The Cesar Chavez Foundation has issued a statement expressing shock and concern following newly surfaced allegations that labor leader Cesar Chavez engaged in inappropriate sexual behavior with women and minors during his tenure as president of the United Farm Workers (UFW). Image: Public domain via Wikimedia Commons
The Cesar Chavez Foundation has issued a statement expressing shock and concern following newly surfaced allegations that labor leader Cesar Chavez engaged in inappropriate sexual behavior with women and minors during his tenure as president of the United Farm Workers (UFW). Image: Public domain via Wikimedia Commons

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The Cesar Chavez Foundation has issued a statement expressing shock and concern following newly surfaced allegations that labor leader Cesar Chavez engaged in inappropriate sexual behavior with women and minors during his tenure as president of the United Farm Workers (UFW).

“We are deeply shocked and saddened by what we are hearing,” the Foundation said, acknowledging the gravity of the claims against one of the most prominent figures in American labor and civil rights history.

Chavez, who co-founded the United Farm Workers in 1962 alongside Dolores Huerta, is widely recognized for his nonviolent activism, advocacy for farmworkers’ rights, and leadership in labor organizing. His efforts led to landmark improvements in wages, working conditions, and labor protections for agricultural workers across the United States.

The allegations, if substantiated, would mark a significant and troubling reassessment of Chavez’s legacy. As of now, the claims remain allegations, and no formal legal findings have been publicly confirmed.

Historians note that Chavez’s leadership style and internal governance of the UFW have previously been subject to criticism, particularly regarding centralized control and treatment of dissent within the organization. However, allegations of sexual misconduct represent a new and far more serious dimension of scrutiny.

In its statement, the Cesar Chavez Foundation emphasized its commitment to accountability and support for potential victims. The organization said it is working closely with leaders in the farmworker movement to respond responsibly and compassionately.

Among the steps announced:

• Establishing a safe and confidential process for individuals to share experiences of historical harm

• Offering pathways for those affected to participate in repair and reconciliation efforts, if they choose

• Investing in internal reforms to ensure a workplace culture that is “safe and welcoming for all.”

The Foundation also emphasized its mission, stating that it remains committed to serving Latino and working-class communities across the Southwest through housing, education, and cultural programs.

The Cesar Chavez Foundation has asked for patience as it gathers more information, pledging transparency and collaboration with its partners.

“Throughout this process, our organization and our partners in the movement will continue our work together to protect and uplift the families and communities that we serve,” the statement said.

The United Farm Workers has not yet issued a separate detailed statement beyond its collaboration with the Foundation, but both organizations are expected to play central roles in addressing the allegations and their implications.

Follow link: https://chavezfoundation.org/2026/03/17/statement-from-cesar-chavez-foundation/

See related stories:

MALC Proposes Renaming State Holiday After Allegations Against César Chávez
Governor Takes a Strong Stance on Cesar Chavez Allegations

Science On a Sphere Captivates Visitors at IMAS

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Science On a Sphere Captivates Visitors at IMAS
With spring break here, now is the perfect time for families to visit the International Museum of Art & Science and experience the City sponsored Science On a Sphere (SOS) exhibit, offering an engaging and educational opportunity for residents and students to explore science, technology, and discovery together. Courtesy image
With spring break here, now is the perfect time for families to visit the International Museum of Art & Science and experience the City sponsored Science On a Sphere (SOS) exhibit, offering an engaging and educational opportunity for residents and students to explore science, technology, and discovery together. Image courtesy of The City of Mcallen

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With spring break here, now is the perfect time for families to visit the International Museum of Art & Science and experience the City sponsored Science On a Sphere (SOS) exhibit, offering an engaging and educational opportunity for residents and students to explore science, technology, and discovery together.

Science On a Sphere, designed by the National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration with content from NASA, is a state-of-the-art exhibit that transforms complex planetary and environmental data into immersive visual experiences. Featuring imagery from the Hubble Space Telescope, the installation allows visitors to explore orbital satellites, space probes, and other sources during interactive presentations. 

Enjoying the exhibit. Image courtesy of the City of McAllen


“This investment aligns with the City’s broader vision to make museums more accessible, strengthen community connections, and foster economic growth while enhancing the quality of life for all residents,” said Mayor Javier Villalobos. “Initiatives like this continue to reinforce McAllen’s reputation as a vibrant center for arts, science, and lifelong learning.”

An education at the museum. Image courtesy of The City of Mcallen

IMAS was the first museum in Texas to house SOS, opening the exhibit in September 2008, and remains one of only 162 institutions worldwide with this technology. Each year, IMAS welcomes more than 60,000 visitors, including thousands of students participating in educational field experiences.

“Supporting institutions like the International Museum of Art & Science reflects the City’s ongoing commitment to investing in educational excellence and community enrichment,” said City Manager Isaac J. Tawil. “Science On a Sphere provides an engaging way for students and families to connect with science, technology, and innovation.”

Plan your visit to IMAS, it is a vibrant center for arts, science, and learning. Visit Us – IMAS

Information source: IMAS

Supersonic Test Flight Boosts Confidence in Draper Rocket Engine Technology

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Supersonic Test Flight Boosts Confidence in Draper Rocket Engine Technology
The Affordable Rapid Missile Demonstrator sits staged for flight Jan. 27, 2026. The missile was positioned on a specialized air log cart, used to transport and load the vehicle onto the Transportable Target Launcher. The flight was a key milestone in increasing the technology readiness level of the Draper liquid rocket engine. Photo credit: Ryan Harty, Army via US DOW
The Affordable Rapid Missile Demonstrator sits staged for flight Jan. 27, 2026. The missile was positioned on a specialized air log cart, used to transport and load the vehicle onto the Transportable Target Launcher. The flight was a key milestone in increasing the technology readiness level of the Draper liquid rocket engine. Photo credit: Ryan Harty, Army via US DOW

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By Air Force Research Laboratory Public Affairs Office / US DOW

The Air Force Research Laboratory and an aerospace technology and defense systems contractor recently flew the Affordable Rapid Missile Demonstrator, powered by the Draper liquid rocket engine, achieving supersonic speeds and demonstrating key concepts of operations. This flight is an innovative step toward advancing capabilities that strengthen deterrence and provide rapid global strike options.

This project proves that we can transform and leverage our acquisition models to rapidly deliver critical technology advancements to deter and win in a future conflict,” said Air Force Brig. Gen. Jason Bartolomei, AFRL commander and Air Force technology executive officer. “We are not just building a single missile; we are forging a new path toward a cost-effective, mass-producible deterrent for the nation.”

The Affordable Rapid Missile Demonstrator, powered by the Draper liquid rocket engine, launches during a recent flight. The flight was a key milestone in increasing the technology readiness level of the Draper liquid rocket engine. Photo credit: Ryan Harty, Army via US DOW

This sentiment is echoed by the contractor’s leaders, who emphasized their shared commitment to the ARMD program’s speed and cost-effectiveness. This project represents a new paradigm for accelerating research and development of critical defense technologies, rooted in fast-paced, effective public-private partnerships.

“This flight proves that you can get a vehicle with a safe, storable and throttleable liquid engine in the air quickly and affordably,” said Chris Spagnoletti, contractor CEO. “We went from contract to flight-ready of an all-up round and propulsion system in just eight months.”

This demonstration of the Draper liquid rocket engine leverages several years of the contractor work on their Hadley liquid rocket engine, along with an enduring public-private partnership with AFRL to develop these new rocket propulsion technologies.

“ARMD represents a key milestone in our efforts to develop revolutionary, affordable and scalable liquid rocket engine technologies to win the wars of tomorrow,” said Javier Urzay, AFRL rocket propulsion division chief.

Governor Hosts Canadian Opposition Leader Poilievre in Austin

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Governor Hosts Canadian Opposition Leader Poilievre in Austin
Governor Greg Abbott hosted the Leader of the Official Opposition of Canada, Pierre Poilievre, at the Governor’s Mansion to discuss strengthening energy, trade relations, and commercial ties between Texas and Canada. Photo: Office of the Governor
Governor Greg Abbott hosted the Leader of the Official Opposition of Canada, Pierre Poilievre, at the Governor’s Mansion to discuss strengthening energy, trade relations, and commercial ties between Texas and Canada. Photo: Office of the Governor

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AUSTIN – Governor Greg Abbott hosted the Leader of the Official Opposition of Canada, Pierre Poilievre, at the Governor’s Mansion to discuss strengthening energy, trade relations, and commercial ties between Texas and Canada.

Governor Abbott welcomed Mr. Poilievre to Texas for his first visit in over 30 years where Mr. Poilievre applauded Texas for its economic model of free enterprise. Both leaders discussed the importance of operating at the speed of business and agreed that a predictable and stable regulatory climate is critical to maintaining a thriving economy. Mr. Poilievre championed Canadian businesses and advocated for more trade between Texas and Canada. 

The Governor and Mr. Poilievre meeting in Austin. Photo: Office of The Governor
The Governor and Mr. Poilievre meeting in Austin. Photo: Office of The Governor

The Governor and Mr. Poilievre also discussed rapid economic growth in the state. Governor Abbott noted that Texas has accelerated Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) production and is the top state for cattle, cotton, semiconductors, and aerospace. Additionally, Governor Abbott mentioned how tax incentives, a world-class workforce pipeline, a friendly regulatory environment, and a strong education system allow Texas to continue to pave the way in innovation for generations to come.

Mr. Poilievre reaffirmed his belief that it is to the benefit of Canada and Texas to continue to build the strong partnership between their respective energy industries. Additionally, both leaders affirmed the need for a strong defense partnership to safeguard their people against foreign adversaries.

Canada is the third-largest source country for total foreign direct investment projects in Texas. Over the past decade, Canadian companies have invested over $11.5 billion across more than 150 economic development projects in Texas, creating over 15,500 jobs. In 2025 alone, Canada was Texas’ second-largest export destination, with more than $34.5 billion in exports and $69 billion in total trade between the Texas and Canadian economies.

Texas Attorney General Stops Unlawful Waste Discharges Into Neches River Basin

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Texas Attorney General Stops Unlawful Waste Discharges Into Neches River Basin
Attorney General Ken Paxton secured a court order to stop Angelina County Water Control and Improvement District No. 4 (“the District”) from discharging sewage, waste, and other potentially harmful substances into Cedar Creek and surrounding Texas waterways. Image for illustration purposes
Attorney General Ken Paxton secured a court order to stop Angelina County Water Control and Improvement District No. 4 (“the District”) from discharging sewage, waste, and other potentially harmful substances into Cedar Creek and surrounding Texas waterways. Image for illustration purposes

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Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton. Image: X

AUSTIN – Attorney General Ken Paxton secured a court order to stop Angelina County Water Control and Improvement District No. 4 (“the District”) from discharging sewage, waste, and other potentially harmful substances into Cedar Creek and surrounding Texas waterways. 

In early March 2026, Attorney General Paxton sued the District after an investigation revealed that its process of sewage treatment and disposal was polluting the nearby Cedar Creek with waste that contained traces of Ammonia and E. coli. The District discharged sewage from its leaking lift station into a tributary of Cedar Creek, which is part of the Neches River Basin, in violation of the Texas Water Code and Texas Solid Waste Disposal Act. 

Now, Attorney General Paxton has secured a Temporary Restraining Order (“TRO”) that effectively stops the District’s unlawful activity. The TRO requires the District to immediately stop all unauthorized sewage discharges and to clean up all areas adversely affected by the District’s unlawful actions. Attorney General Paxton will continue to ensure the continued safety of Texans and their property. 

“Illegal sewage dumping that threatens the health of Texans and harms our beautiful Texas waterways will not be tolerated,” said Attorney General Paxton. “I will ensure that no corners are cut and that any entity responsible for managing essential public infrastructure follows Texas law.” 

To read the order, click here. 

Texas Launches New Agricultural Defense Program to Protect Farmers and Ranchers

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Texas Launches New Agricultural Defense Program to Protect Farmers and Ranchers
Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller today announced the opening of the Agricultural Defense Program (AgDefense), a new initiative administered in partnership with the Texas Agricultural Finance Authority (TAFA) to help protect Texas farmers and ranchers from costly threats posed by agricultural pests, diseases, and depredating animals. Image for illustration purposes
Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller today announced the opening of the Agricultural Defense Program (AgDefense), a new initiative administered in partnership with the Texas Agricultural Finance Authority (TAFA) to help protect Texas farmers and ranchers from costly threats posed by agricultural pests, diseases, and depredating animals. Image for illustration purposes

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AUSTIN – Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller today announced the opening of the Agricultural Defense Program (AgDefense), a new initiative administered in partnership with the Texas Agricultural Finance Authority (TAFA) to help protect Texas farmers and ranchers from costly threats posed by agricultural pests, diseases, and depredating animals.

The program is now accepting letters of intent under the authority of Texas Agriculture Code, Chapter 58, to provide targeted financial assistance for programs designed to strengthen Texas’ agricultural defenses and reduce losses for producers across the state.

Texas agriculture generates hundreds of billions of dollars in economic activity and supports rural communities from the Panhandle to the Rio Grande Valley. That economic foundation requires constant vigilance and investment in science-based solutions that stop threats before they spread.

“Texas agriculture feeds and clothes the world, and I’m not going to stand by while pests, disease, or predators threaten the livelihoods of our farmers and ranchers,” Commissioner Miller said. “This Agricultural Defense Program gives us another powerful tool to stay ahead of these threats and protect the producers who keep our state strong.”

Through the program, TAFA will provide financial assistance to the Texas Animal Health Commission, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service, and Texas A&M AgriLife Research to implement targeted control and mitigation projects. Eligible projects may include monitoring, response strategies, and field-level interventions aimed at addressing emerging agricultural threats before they cause widespread economic damage.

Commissioner Miller emphasized that the program is designed to be flexible and responsive to rapidly evolving challenges facing Texas producers, including invasive pests, livestock diseases, crop threats, and wildlife depredation that can devastate farms and ranches if left unchecked.

“Whether it’s invasive insects threatening our crops, diseases putting our livestock at risk, or predators causing damage to farms and ranches, these threats cost Texas producers millions of dollars every year,” Miller said. “By working with our partners at the Texas Animal Health Commission and Texas A&M AgriLife, we’re investing in the expertise and knowledge needed to defend Texas agriculture.”

Applications will be accepted on an ongoing basis to ensure the state can respond quickly to emerging pest and disease threats. Eligible agencies are encouraged to submit letters of intent outlining strategic projects designed to mitigate agricultural losses and strengthen Texas’ agricultural biosecurity.

“Texas agriculture is the backbone of our economy and the heart of our rural communities,” Commissioner Miller said. “Programs like this ensure we stay one step ahead of the threats facing our producers and keep Texas agriculture strong, secure, and globally competitive for generations to come.”

To learn more about the TAFA grant program visit here.

Edinburg EDC’s Third Round of Facade and Lot Improvement Program Launched

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Edinburg EDC’s Third Round of Facade and Lot Improvement Program Launched
The Edinburg Economic Development Corporation (EEDC) is launching the third round of the Façade and Lot Improvement Program (FLIP). Image for illustration purposes
The Edinburg Economic Development Corporation (EEDC) is launching the third round of the Façade and Lot Improvement Program (FLIP). Image for illustration purposes

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EDINBURG, Texas – The Edinburg Economic Development Corporation (EEDC) is launching the third round of the Façade and Lot Improvement Program (FLIP), an initiative that provides financial assistance to local small businesses for façade and exterior property improvements that enhance the overall appearance of commercial corridors throughout the city.

Through this program, the EEDC continues its commitment to supporting the local business community by offering grants of up to $10,000 to qualifying small businesses for exterior repairs and property improvements. The program will officially open for applications on March 23, 2026.

The FLIP program has proven to be a valuable tool in helping our local small businesses invest in their properties and improve the overall look and feel of our commercial areas,” said Raudel Garza, Executive Director of the Edinburg Economic Development Corporation. “By bringing this program back for a third round, we are continuing to support our entrepreneurs while encouraging reinvestment in our community. These improvements not only help businesses attract customers but also contribute to the continued growth and vitality of Edinburg.”

PROGRAM DETAILS

The EEDC has allocated $400,000 for Fiscal Year 2025–2026 to support at least 40 qualifying small businesses, providing grants of up to $10,000 per business. The program focuses on improvements that help enhance the visual appeal and functionality of commercial properties, including repairs to existing parking lots, signage, and building façades.

The program funding was approved by the EEDC Board of Directors on March 2, 2026.

The FLIP program operates on a reimbursement basis, meaning approved projects will receive funding after the improvements have been completed and verified. Please note that any project expenses incurred prior to program approval and obtaining the required building permits will not be eligible for reimbursement.

Businesses that received funding during the first or second rounds of the FLIP program are not eligible to apply for this third round, allowing the program to assist new businesses across the community.

ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS

To qualify for the FLIP program, businesses must meet the following criteria:

  • Located within Edinburg city limits
  • Commercial property owner and/or an existing for-profit business (tenant) in Edinburg with fewer than 20 employees
  • Currently operating and locally owned
  • Current with all local property tax payments
  • No outstanding code enforcement violations or liens
  • Submission of two quotes for the proposed work, with at least one quote from an Edinburg-based business, vendor, or contractor
  • Authorization letter from the property owner if the applicant is a tenant

ELIGIBLE EXPENSES

The program covers hard costs associated with the renovation and improvement of exterior portions of commercial properties owned or leased by qualifying small businesses. Eligible expenses include, but are not limited to:

  • Construction of outdoor patios
  • Exterior painting, re-siding, cleaning, or other façade improvements
  • Restoration of significant architectural details
  • Installation of permanent landscaping
  • Installation of new doors, windows, or awnings
  • Parking lot resurfacing and striping
  • Repair, removal, or replacement of old signage
  • Roof repairs that are part of the existing building structure

Before starting work, all proposed improvement projects must receive approval from the EEDC Board of Directors and the Edinburg City Council.

For more information on the FLIP program and to apply, please visit  www.edinburgedc.com/doing-business/flip-program or contact the Edinburg Economic Development Corporation at (956) 388-8914.See the document below for more information:

Courtesy image

Dr. Guy Bailey and Harlingen CISD to be Honored at Annual Honor Roll Gala, March 28th, 2026

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Dr. Guy Bailey and Harlingen CISD to be Honored at Annual Honor Roll Gala, March 28th, 2026
This year’s honorees exemplify visionary leadership and an unwavering commitment to expanding opportunity for all students. Dr. Guy Bailey, founding president of The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, will receive the Educational Champion Award; Harlingen Consolidated Independent School District (HCISD) will be honored with the Institutional Catalyst Award. Images courtesy of Teach for America RGV. Bgd for illustration purposes
This year’s honorees exemplify visionary leadership and an unwavering commitment to expanding opportunity for all students. Dr. Guy Bailey, founding president of The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, will receive the Educational Champion Award; Harlingen Consolidated Independent School District (HCISD) will be honored with the Institutional Catalyst Award. Images courtesy of Teach for America RGV. Bgd for illustration purposes

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MISSION, Texas – Teach For America Rio Grande Valley (TFA RGV) will celebrate 35 years of impact at its annual Honor Roll Gala on March 28, 2026, recognizing visionary leaders and partners who have helped expand educational opportunity for students across the Rio Grande Valley.

Now in its eighth year, the Honor Roll Gala brings together community leaders, educators, and advocates to celebrate the partnerships and people working to transform education in the region. This year’s event is especially significant as Teach For America marks three and a half decades of collaboration and progress in the Valley.

The 2026 gala will honor Dr. Guy Bailey, founding president of The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, with the Educational Champion Award, and Harlingen Consolidated Independent School District (HCISD) with the Institutional Catalyst Award. In recognition of the organization’s milestone anniversary, Teach For America RGV will also celebrate its nearly 1,600 alumni whose leadership continues to shape classrooms, schools, and communities.

“These honorees reflect the power of leadership and partnership in creating meaningful opportunities for students,” said Ana Gonzalez, Executive Director of Teach For America Rio Grande Valley. “For 35 years, educators, alumni, and community partners across the Valley have worked together to reimagine what’s possible for our students. This celebration is a tribute to that collective impact.”

2026 Honorees

Educational Champion Award Honoree: Dr. Guy Bailey

The Educational Champion Award recognizes an individual whose leadership has significantly advanced educational excellence and expanded opportunities for students through sustained commitment to schools and communities.

Institutional Catalyst Award Honoree: Harlingen Consolidated Independent School District

The Institutional Catalyst Award recognizes organizations that demonstrate collective leadership in advancing educational excellence and opportunity for students through sustained partnerships with schools and communities.

“We’re proud to celebrate the changemakers shaping education in the Rio Grande Valley,” said Deborah Cordova, Chair of the Teach For America Rio Grande Valley Regional Board. “Together, we are building a future where every student has access to an excellent education.”

 To view our honorees’ full bios, learn more about our event, and purchase tickets, visit www.teachforamerica.org/HonorRollGala. 

Precinct 4 and Heart, Mind, Money Foundation Celebrate Transformative Partnership

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Precinct 4 and Heart, Mind, Money Foundation Celebrate Transformative Partnership
Hidalgo County Precinct 4 continues to strengthen opportunities for women and families across the Rio Grande Valley through its partnership with the Heart, Mind, Money Foundation, an initiative that was recently highlighted during the Foundation’s scholarship gala held on Thursday, February 12, 2026. Courtesy image
Hidalgo County Precinct 4 continues to strengthen opportunities for women and families across the Rio Grande Valley through its partnership with the Heart, Mind, Money Foundation, an initiative that was recently highlighted during the Foundation’s scholarship gala held on Thursday, February 12, 2026. Courtesy image

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EDINBURG, Texas – Hidalgo County Precinct 4 continues to strengthen opportunities for women and families across the Rio Grande Valley through its partnership with the Heart, Mind, Money Foundation, an initiative that was recently highlighted during the Foundation’s scholarship gala held on Thursday, February 12, 2026.

The event brought together community leaders, supporters, and program participants to celebrate the impact the program is already having on women throughout the region. Through the partnership, women are participating in a program designed to build confidence, leadership skills, and financial knowledge—tools that empower them to improve their lives and strengthen their families.

The Heart, Mind, Money Foundation focuses on developing the “heart, mind, and money” of participants by providing mentorship, financial literacy education, and personal development resources. Many of the women in the program are gaining practical skills that help them pursue career opportunities, start businesses, and become stronger leaders within their communities.

Through its collaboration with the Foundation, Precinct 4 has joined together to bring this opportunity to women across the community, connecting residents with resources that encourage both personal and economic growth.

“Partnerships like this are about investing in people,” said Ellie Torres, Hidalgo County Commissioner Precinct 4 . “When women are given the tools, support, and mentorship to grow personally and financially, the ripple effect strengthens families and entire communities. We are proud to partner with the Heart, Mind, Money Foundation to bring these opportunities to women in our region.”

Organizers say the program has already helped many women take meaningful steps toward financial independence, leadership development, and personal growth. Participants benefit not only from scholarships and training, but also from a supportive network that encourages them to pursue their goals and uplift others along the way.

The event served as a celebration of that progress while also raising awareness of the program’s impact and the importance of continued community partnerships.

Hidalgo County Precinct 4 is looking forward to continuing their work alongside the Heart, Mind, Money Foundation to expand opportunities for women throughout the Rio Grande Valley and ensure more residents have access to programs that promote leadership, financial empowerment, and long-term success.

Through initiatives like this partnership, Precinct 4 remains committed to supporting programs that uplift residents and create stronger, more resilient communities across the county.

TxDOT Urges Texans to Protect Pedestrians and Cyclists This Spring

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TxDOT Urges Texans to Protect Pedestrians and Cyclists This Spring
“We continue to see an increase in the number of crashes involving pedestrians or cyclists each year,” TxDOT Executive Director Marc Williams said. Image for illustration purposes
“We continue to see an increase in the number of crashes involving pedestrians or cyclists each year,” TxDOT Executive Director Marc Williams said. Image for illustration purposes

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AUSTIN – Spring brings out walkers, cyclists and drivers to enjoy the beauty across the state. No matter how you explore Texas, we can help each other stay safe on the road.

Texans take care of their neighbors, but far too often people forget to do that when they are behind the wheel. TxDOT is urging everyone to always follow the law and drive like a Texan: kind, courteous and safe.

“We continue to see an increase in the number of crashes involving pedestrians or cyclists each year,” TxDOT Executive Director Marc Williams said. “All of us share a responsibility to watch out for each other, but people on foot or riding a bike are most at risk for serious injury or worse in a crash with a car, which means drivers must be extra vigilant.”

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Currently, the most complete, available data on pedestrian and bicyclist-involved crashes is from 2024. The data from the first quarter of 2025 compared to 2024 is below:

• From Jan. 1 through March 31, 2025, there were 1,372 traffic crashes involving pedestrians in Texas, resulting in 167 pedestrian fatalities and 308 pedestrians seriously injured.

• During the same period in 2024, there were 1,461 traffic crashes involving pedestrians in Texas, resulting in 168 pedestrian fatalities and 369 pedestrians seriously injured.

• From Jan. 1 through March 31, 2025, there were 527 traffic crashes involving bicyclists in Texas, resulting in 19 bicyclist fatalities and 65 bicyclists seriously injured.

• During the same period in 2024, there were 583 traffic crashes involving bicyclists in Texas, resulting in 12 bicyclist fatalities and 87 bicyclists seriously injured.

• In the *Pharr District in 2024, there were 222 traffic crashes involving pedestrians, resulting in 27 pedestrian fatalities and 47 pedestrians seriously injured.

• In the *Pharr District in 2024, there were 119 traffic crashes involving bicyclists, resulting in 7 bicyclist fatalities and 16 bicyclists seriously injured.

*The Pharr District includes the 8 southernmost counties of Texas: Cameron, Willacy, Hidalgo, Starr, Zapata, Jim Hogg, Brooks and Kenedy.

Reality of crashes

Crashes involving bicyclists and pedestrians are preventable if everyone follows the rules of the road. That didn’t happen for 26-year-old Bryan Kight in 2024. He was struck in an Austin bike lane by a driver turning left. He needed major reconstructive surgeries and several months of recuperation to regain mobility.

Kight is joining TxDOT this spring urging Texans to come together, follow traffic laws and prevent these senseless tragedies.

The data

In 2024, 852 cyclists and pedestrians were killed in crashes on Texas roads, accounting for more than 20 percent of all traffic fatalities. There were 6,095 crashes involving pedestrians and 2,761 crashes involving bicyclists.

In early 2025, there were 1,372 traffic crashes involving pedestrians in Texas and 527 traffic crashes involving bicyclists. In these crashes, 186 people were killed.

Know and follow the rules for sharing the road

TxDOT’s Drive like a Texan traffic safety initiative will remind Texans to Be Safe. Drive Smart. by providing safety tips to protect vulnerable road users.

If you’re driving

  • Stop and yield for pedestrians, cyclists and other vulnerable road users in crosswalks
  • Give bikes space and pass at a safe distance
  • Yield when turning and always look twice for pedestrians and cyclists
  • Follow the posted speed limit and adjust your speed to conditions

If you’re walking

  • Cross the street only at crosswalks and intersections
  • Stick to sidewalks, but if none exists, walk facing traffic on the left side unless it is obstructed or unsafe

If you’re biking

  • Stop at red lights and stop signs
  • Ride in the same direction as traffic and use bike lanes or ride as near as possible to the right-hand curb
  • Use hand signals for turns or stops
  • Equip your bike with lights at night, using a white light on the front and a red light or reflector on the back

At events across the state, the campaign will leverage an interactive virtual reality experience to give participants firsthand experience navigating traffic scenarios that can be dangerous for pedestrians and bicyclists.

This Be Safe. Drive Smart. campaign is an important part of TxDOT’s Drive like a Texan: Kind. Courteous. Safe. initiative. Drive like a Texan is about embracing the pride, camaraderie and responsibility of being a Texan on the road. By making thoughtful choices, we can all help keep each other safe. Learn more at Drive Like a Texan.

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