Pharr-San Juan-Alamo Independent School District (PSJA ISD) has named the recipients of the 2025–2026 PSJA Middle School Rising Stars recognition. This district honor highlights one eighth grade student from each of the eight PSJA middle schools who exemplify academic excellence, leadership, and active involvement in their campus community. Image courtesy of PSJS ISD
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PHARR, Texas – Pharr-San Juan-Alamo Independent School District (PSJA ISD) has named the recipients of the 2025–2026 PSJA Middle School Rising Stars recognition. This district honor highlights one eighth grade student from each of the eight PSJA middle schools who exemplify academic excellence, leadership, and active involvement in their campus community.
The PSJA Rising Stars Recognition Program celebrates students who reflect the district’s commitment to preparing all learners for college, career, and life. Students are nominated by faculty and staff based on academic performance, participation in extracurricular activities, leadership, and dedication to personal growth. After a thorough selection process, only top students are recognized to represent their campus.
Image courtesy of PSJA ISD
Congratulations to the 2025-2026 PSJA Middle School Rising Stars:
Sophia De Leon – Audie Murphy Middle School
Dominie Gonzalez – Lyndon B. Johnson Middle School
Adlemi Villarreal – Raul H. Yzaguirre Middle School
Jesenda Vargas – Kennedy Middle School
Nicholas Suarez – Liberty Middle School
Cianni Vargas – Stephen F. Austin Middle School
Araiza Valentina – Jesus “Jesse” Vela, Jr. Middle School
Robert Garcia – Jaime Escalante Middle School
“Our middle school students represent the promise and potential of our district,” said PSJA Superintendent Dr. Alejandro Elias. “At this pivotal stage in their academic journey, they are already demonstrating the discipline, leadership, and vision that will shape their future. We are proud to see them setting ambitious goals and preparing to take full advantage of the advanced academic and career opportunities that await them in high school and beyond.”
As part of the recognition, the students will be featured on the district’s website and social media channels throughout this Spring.
The proposed order requires Adobe to pay $75 million in civil penalties and offer customers $75 million in free services to resolve allegations that the company’s subscription practices violated the Restore Online Shoppers’ Confidence Act (ROSCA). Image: Public domain. Bgd for illustration purposes
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U.S. Department of Justice
The Justice Department announced that it has filed a proposed stipulated order that, if entered by the court, will resolve a case against software company Adobe Inc. and two of its employees, Maninder Sawhney and David Wadhwani. The proposed order requires Adobe to pay $75 million in civil penalties and offer customers $75 million in free services to resolve allegations that the company’s subscription practices violated the Restore Online Shoppers’ Confidence Act (ROSCA).
ROSCA generally requires companies offering online subscriptions to clearly disclose important subscription information and to provide subscribers with simple ways to cancel. In a complaint filed in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California, the government alleged that Adobe violated ROSCA by using fine print and inconspicuous hyperlinks to hide important information about Adobe’s subscription plans, including information about a hefty Early Termination Fee that customers may be charged when they cancel their subscriptions. The government also alleged that Adobe thwarted subscribers’ attempts to cancel, subjecting them to convoluted and inefficient cancellation processes filled with unnecessary steps, delays, unsolicited offers, and warnings.
“American consumers deserve the right to make informed choices when deciding where to spend their hard-earned money,” said Assistant Attorney General Brett A. Shumate, head of the Justice Department’s Civil Division. “The Justice Department will strongly oppose any attempt to harm Americans with deceptive and unfair business practices.”
In addition to civil penalties and free services, the stipulated order provides strong protections for American consumers going forward. Adobe will be required to clearly disclose any Early Termination Fee and how the fee is calculated before enrolling customers in subscriptions. For any free trial lasting longer than seven days, Adobe must also remind customers before converting them into a paid subscription with an Early Termination Fee. Furthermore, Adobe will be required to provide its subscribers with easy ways to cancel their subscriptions.
The United States is represented in this action by Trial Attorneys Francisco L. Unger and Zachary L. Cowan and Assistant Director Zachary A. Dietert, from the Enforcement Section of the Civil Division’s Enforcement and Affirmative Litigation Branch, with assistance from Assistant U.S. Attorney Savith S. Iyengar for the Northern District of California, in coordination with staff at the FTC’s Bureau of Consumer Protection.
The USS Thomas Hudner fires a Tomahawk land attack missile in support of Operation Epic Fury in the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility, March 5, 2026. Photo Credit: US Navy via US DOW
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U.S Department of War
More than 50,000 service members are supporting Operation Epic Fury, which started Feb. 28, said Pentagon Press Secretary Kingsley Wilson today in the War Department’s Weekly Sitrep video.
Those forces have established control over air and sea domains and struck thousands of identified Iranian targets, demonstrating operational dominance, she said.
“We continue to deliver devastating combat power. Every day our resolve increases and the regime’s ability to threaten our forces, our partners and the American people, is being systematically dismantled,” Wilson said.
Yesterday, U.S. Central Command reported about 6,000 targets struck, with more than 60 ships and 30 minelayers damaged or destroyed to date, reflecting substantial progress in diminishing hostile capabilities.
Weapons employed in the operation, per the fact sheet, include a wide range of bombers, fighter jets, electronic warfare and reconnaissance aircraft, unmanned aerial systems, missile defense platforms, artillery systems, warships, counter-drone equipment, refueling assets and cargo aircraft.
On March 11, Centcom issued a warning to civilians that the Iranian regime is using civilian ports along the Strait of Hormuz to conduct military operations that threaten international shipping.
“This dangerous action risks the lives of innocent people. Civilian ports used for military purposes lose protected status and become legitimate military targets under international law,” the warning reads.
Soldiers stand in formation during the 260th Special Purpose Brigade activation ceremony at the D.C. National Guard Armory in Washington, March 7, 2026. About 2,500 National Guard members are supporting the mission and providing critical assistance to the Metropolitan Police Department to help ensure the safety of residents, commuters and visitors throughout the district. Photo Credit: Army Spc. Shretha Broderick Via US DOW
The War Department honors the American heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice in support of Operation Epic Fury, Wilson said, adding, “These patriots paid the price in full, and the Department of War will deliver total victory in their name.”
Shifting to homeland security, the District of Columbia National Guard activated the 260th Special Purpose Brigade at the D.C. National Guard Armory, March 7, Wilson said. It is the only brigade in the Army specifically designed to coordinate military support to civil authorities and protect critical infrastructure in the nation’s capital.
The brigade was created in response to President Donald J. Trump’s Executive Order 14339 and a subsequent directive from Secretary of War Pete Hegseth, calling for the immediate establishment, training and equipping of a dedicated National Guard unit to support public safety operations.
“The brigade will coordinate military support to civil authorities and enable National Guard forces to rapidly integrate with federal and local agencies responsible for safeguarding our capital,” Wilson said.
Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Sebastian GutierrezQuiroz and Sgt. Matthew Blake shoot a FIM-92E Stinger missile at a simulated hostile counter-unmanned aircraft system during Arctic Edge near Fort Greely, Alaska, March 7, 2026. The exercise was designed to improve readiness, demonstrate capabilities and enhance joint and allied force interoperability in the Arctic. Photo Credit: Marine Corps Sgt. Aaron TorresLemus via US DOW
“Partnerships like this are essential in Washington,” said U.S. Marshal Jurgen Soekhoe at the brigade’s activation ceremony. “The 260th Special Purpose Brigade brings a level of coordination and readiness that allows federal law enforcement and the National Guard to operate as a unified team when security demands it.”
This week, the North American Aerospace Defense Command and U.S. Northern Command concluded Arctic Edge 2026, a three-week, multidomain field training exercise conducted across Alaska and Greenland, Wilson said.
U.S., allied and interagency partners trained together to sharpen Arctic operations, improve interoperability and strengthen homeland defense capabilities in the high north, she said.
Key objectives of the exercise, according to a Northcom press release, were:
Cruise missile defense;
Coordination with interagency partners on the protection of critical infrastructure such as power grids in Alaska;
Counter-small UAS defense;
Joint and service-level experimentation and technology demonstrations;
Arctic survival and mobility training in Greenland.
On March 8, at the direction of U.S. Southern Command commander, Marine Corps Gen. Francis L. Donovan, Joint Task Force Southern Spear conducted a lethal kinetic strike on a vessel operated by a designated terrorist organization, achieving its objective without U.S. casualties, Wilson said.
Intelligence confirmed the vessel was transiting along known narco-trafficking routes in the eastern Pacific, and the operation resulted in the elimination of six male narco-terrorists, she said.
The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) will increase patrols on roads beginning this weekend to ensure motorists drive responsibly this spring break and St. Patrick’s Day. March 8 through March 17, the Texas Highway Patrol (THP) will conduct its annual Spring Break and St. Patrick’s Day traffic enforcement campaign—looking for people who are speeding, not wearing their seat belts, driving while intoxicated or committing other traffic violations. Photo: Texas DPS
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AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) will increase patrols on roads beginning this weekend to ensure motorists drive responsibly this spring break and St. Patrick’s Day. March 8 through March 17, the Texas Highway Patrol (THP) will conduct its annual Spring Break and St. Patrick’s Day traffic enforcement campaign—looking for people who are speeding, not wearing their seat belts, driving while intoxicated or committing other traffic violations.
“Spring break brings more travelers to Texas and making sure our roads are safe has to be a top priority,” said Colonel Freeman F. Martin. “Whether you’re heading to the beach, lake or anywhere in between, make smart choices—don’t drink and drive, buckle up and stay off your phone when you’re behind the wheel. Let’s work together so that we can all have a safe and enjoyable spring break.”
THP will increase enforcement as part of Operation CARE (Crash Awareness and Reduction Effort), which runs nationwide from March 8 through March 17. Last year, during DPS’ 2024 Spring Break and St. Patrick’s Day enforcement efforts, there were more than 52,793 citations and warnings issued. This included over 16,360 speeding violations; 1,277 seat belt and child seat violations; 2,149 violations for driving without insurance; and 463 felony and fugitive arrests.
DPS offers the following safety tips:
Don’t drink and drive. Make alternate plans if you are consuming alcohol.
Eliminate distractions while driving, including the use of mobile devices. Texas law prohibits the use of portable wireless devices to read, write or send an electronic message unless the vehicle is stopped. If you’re using a navigation device or app, have a passenger operate it so you can keep your eyes on the road.
Move Over or Slow Down for police, fire, EMS, Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) vehicles and tow trucks stopped on the side of the road with emergency lights activated. Show the same courtesy to fellow drivers who are stopped on the side of the road. So far in 2025, there have been more than 2,194 Move Over, Slow Down violations.
Buckle up everyone in the vehicle — it’s the law.
Slow down, especially in bad weather, heavy traffic, unfamiliar areas or construction zones.
Drive defensively, as holiday travel can present additional challenges.
On multi-lane roads, use the left lane for passing only. Not only is it courteous driving and avoids impeding traffic, Texas law requires slower traffic to keep to the right and to use the left lane for passing only (when posted).
Don’t cut in front of large trucks and try not to brake quickly in front of them. They can’t maneuver as easily as passenger vehicles and pickup trucks.
If you can Steer It, Clear It: If you are involved in a non-injury crash and your vehicle can be moved, clear the traffic lanes to minimize traffic impact. Leaving vehicles in a traffic lane increases traffic congestion and leaves those involved with an increased risk of harm or a secondary wreck. On some highways, if you don’t move your vehicle when it’s safe to do so, it’s against the law.
Keep the Texas Roadside Assistance number stored in your phone. Dial 1-800-525-5555 for any type of assistance. The number can also be found on the back of a Texas Driver License.
Check your vehicle to make sure it is properly maintained and always ensure your cargo is secure.
Report road hazards or anything suspicious to the nearest law enforcement agency.
Monitor weather and road conditions wherever you are traveling. For road conditions and closures in Texas, visit Drive Texas
DPS would also like to remind Texans about theiWatchTexas program, a critical resource for reporting suspicious activity within the community to help prevent dangerous attacks. It’s especially important to be vigilant as people gather for parades, festivals and other community events. Tips can be reported via the website, the free iWatch iOS or Android mobile app or by calling 844-643-2251. All reports are confidential. For information on how to use iWatchTexas, you can view this how-to video.Remember, iWatchTexas is not for emergencies. If there is an emergency, call 911 immediately.
Additionally, DPS reminds the public to be vigilant and remain on the lookout for any signs of possible human trafficking. With an increase in people on the road and in airports, there is an increased opportunity for the community to spot potential human trafficking activities and report them to law enforcement. Be observant of others around you and take note of the following indicators of human trafficking:
A person appears to be under the control of another person either physically (someone else controls the person’s possessions i.e., ID, money, phone) or psychologically (little to no eye contact, unable to speak for themselves or unable to make simple decisions without approval).
A person has little to no awareness of their surroundings including where they are or where they are headed.
A person has untreated illness or infection, visible injuries, appears malnourished or sleep deprived.
A person’s clothing is inappropriate for the weather or environment or is dressed in a manner that does not appear age-appropriate or makes them appear older.
A person is being transported to and from work by their employer.
A person lives where they work or works excessively long or unusual hours.
A person’s workplace has security measures that are unusual or excessive for the type of business (i.e., boarded or opaque windows, excessive security cameras).
The presence of an indicator does not confirm an occurrence of human trafficking; however, the combination and context of indicators may indicate human trafficking pending law enforcement investigation and you are encouraged to report it. If you see signs of human trafficking, call 911immediately to report it and be ready to give as many details as possible. You can also make a report on iWatchTexas or by contacting the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888 or text “BeFree” to 233733.
Remember, do not endanger yourself or others by intervening or confronting someone you suspect of engaging in human trafficking if it is not safe to do so.
Camp RIO, located in Brownsville, Texas, is excited to celebrate the grand opening of the Camp RIO at Historic Lula Sams Girl Scout Museum, a new space dedicated to preserving the traditions and memories of generations of Girl Scouts. Image courtesy of Camp RIO
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BROWNSVILLE, Texas – Camp RIO, located in Brownsville, Texas, is excited to celebrate the grand opening of the Camp RIO at Historic Lula Sams Girl Scout Museum, a new space dedicated to preserving the traditions and memories of generations of Girl Scouts.
See the gallery below for images from the event: All images courtesy of IDEA Public Schools Camp RIO
The museum is housed inside one of the original Girl Scout cabins from the 1950s from Camp Lula Sams, located on the Camp RIO property in Brownsville. The restored cabin showcases a collection of original furniture, kitchen items, photographs, books, and clothing, giving visitors a glimpse into what Girl Scout camp life looked like decades ago. Guests attending the grand opening will enjoy free refreshments, a special presentation at the pavilion, and an arts and crafts activity table for guests of all ages. Visitors will also learn more about the historic cabin and the artifacts preserved inside the new museum.
See the gallery below for more images: All images courtesy of IDEA Public Schools Camp RIO
“Opening the Girl Scout Museum allows us to honor Camp RIO’s legacy while preserving the history of Camp Lula Sams for our community,” said Camp RIO Director Nancy Mance. “These artifacts tell the story of the leadership, friendships, and experiences that shaped generations of Girl Scouts in the Rio Grande Valley.”
The Girl Scout Museum will be open for tours during Camp RIO’s seasonal community events, including Spring Fest, Campy Christmas, and other special celebrations throughout the year.
About Camp RIO Camp RIO staff have a passion for the outdoors. The vision is to provide a quality camp experience for people in the Rio Grande Valley. Camp RIO offers a wide range of activities at the historic Lula Sams property in Brownsville, Texas, operating outdoor education and day camp programs since 2015. Camp RIO is proudly Accredited by the American Camp Association. Camp RIO is the only camp of this kind in South Texas.
Pharr-San Juan-Alamo ISD hosted its 2nd Annual Superintendent’s Scholarship Golf Classic on Saturday, March 7, 2026, at Topgolf in Pharr, Texas, raising a record-breaking of over $68,000 to support scholarships and educational grants for students and teachers. Image courtesy of PSJA ISD
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PHARR, Texas – Pharr-San Juan-Alamo ISD hosted its 2nd Annual Superintendent’s Scholarship Golf Classic on Saturday, March 7, 2026, at Topgolf in Pharr, Texas, raising a record-breaking of over $68,000 to support scholarships and educational grants for students and teachers. This year’s event surpassed last year’s fundraiser, which generated more than $54,000, reflecting the continued growth and strong community support for expanding educational opportunities across the district.
Image courtesy of PSJA ISD
What began as a day of friendly competition became a powerful demonstration of what is possible when a community comes together for its students. Community partners, business leaders, and district staff united around a shared purpose: expanding opportunity and opening doors for PSJA students.
Funds were raised through sponsorships, mulligan sales, raffle tickets, and live auction items, with all proceeds benefiting the PSJA Education Foundation, a 501(c3) nonprofit organization. The record-setting total will directly fund scholarships for graduating seniors as they pursue higher education, industry certifications, and career pathways that transform their futures.
“We are deeply grateful to our sponsors and community partners who continue to invest in our students,” said PSJA ISD Superintendent Dr. Alejandro Elias. “This record-breaking support means more graduating seniors will have access to the financial assistance they need to continue their education and achieve their goals.”
More than 30 teams and over 100 participants took part in the tournament, creating an energetic and competitive atmosphere fueled by generosity and commitment to student success.
In addition to the main Golf Classic, the district hosted its first-ever PSJA Family Day of Giving Golf Tournament on a separate floor at Topgolf. This special addition invited campuses and district departments to participate in their own friendly competition, turning the event into a districtwide celebration of giving.
The Family Day of Giving reflected the heart of PSJA ISD. Campuses and departments rallied together, not just to compete, but to contribute. Their participation underscored a shared belief that investing in students is a responsibility embraced by the entire PSJA Family. Proceeds from both tournaments supported the same scholarship and grant efforts, amplifying the overall impact of the day.
Through events like the Superintendent’s Scholarship Golf Classic and the PSJA Family Day of Giving, PSJA ISD continues to strengthen community partnerships and demonstrate that when the PSJA Family works together, students benefit in extraordinary ways.
Top 3 Tournament Winners 1st Place – Terracon Consultants 2nd Place – E3 Entegral 3rd Place – SKO Elite Repair
Image courtesy of PSJA ISD
Campus Tournament Top 3 1st Place – PSJA Dr. Long Elementary 2nd Place – PSJA North ECHS #3 3rd Place – PSJA North ECHS #4
Image courtesy of PSJA ISD
PSJA ISD extends sincere appreciation to all sponsors, campuses, and community partners who participated and contributed generously to support scholarships and educational grants for PSJA students.
Bring the whole family out to look for birds along the Texas border at Resaca de la Palma State Park. Image courtesy of Texas Parks and Wildlife Department
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AUSTIN — For many Texans, spring break is around the corner, and those planning their travel routes and trips should take a gander at the happenings at the more than 89 Texas State Parks.
During busy seasons, many of the most popular Texas State Parks are expected to reach capacity quickly. Park staff strongly encourage anyone planning a trip to reserve a day pass in advance. Reserve day passes online through the TPWD reservation website or by calling the Customer Service Center during regular business hours at (512) 389-8900.
Park Pit Stop
If you need a pit stop on your way through the middle of the state to stretch your legs, try Mother Neff State Park right off I-35 outside of Temple and Waco. With six different easy to moderate trails under a mile long, it’s the perfect way to get your blood flowing after a long car ride.
Many parks across the state have fishing equipment to rent for anyone who wants to wet a line and take a break. If you’re traveling I-30 in the northeast corner of the state, stop at Lake Bob Sandlin State Park and try your hand at East Texas’ famous bass fishing.
Coming in or out of Texas in the westernmost part of the state? Take a load off at Monahans Sandhills State Park near Odessa off I-20. You can even rent a sand disc to take on the dunes!
For the …
– Tropical tripper
Travel close to the southernmost part of Texas to reach a semitropical oasis in the Rio Grande Valley at Resaca de la Palma State Park. This site is the perfect spot for bird watchers as it’s a World Birding Site with all kinds of species to find. Visitors can rent or buy a pair of binoculars at the Sabal Gift Shop within the park..
– Water lover
Come for the wetlands and meet the sea at Sea Rim State Park! Kayak at Sea Rim in southeast Texas where you’ll experience birds galore. Walk along the Gambusia Nature Trail Boardwalk or the beach. Crabbing and fishing are also popular at this park.
Experience the spring-fed Blanco River at Blanco State Park. Hang out in the sun, swim, tube or paddle. This park is an easy trip for those in Austin or San Antonio.
– Nature-lover
Most Texas State Parks have nature trails where visitors can meander through the flora and fauna parks have to offer. Find a nature walk or hike near you
Honey Creek State Natural Area is a haven for protected wildlife species like the golden-cheeked warbler that visitors can explore during guided tours. Access tours through Guadalupe River State Park and enjoy a different side of the river at your own pace.
If you’re headed to Garner State Park, pull off to Kickapoo Cavern State Park on Friday through Monday. The park has multiple easy to moderate trails under a mile long. Check out the Stuart Bat Cave close to the entrance of the park off of Ranch Road 674.
Out near the West Texas town of El Paso, you can stop to look at the hollow basins at Hueco Tanks! There are more than 2,000 pictographs at this site for you to discover. Request a tour ahead of time and make a reservation as visitors are limited to protect the site.
Travel to Seminole Canyon to see more pictographs in the natural rock shelters carved into the canyon walls. Guided tours are available, and the limestone terrain is great for hiking!
If you’re planning on seeing Big Bend Ranch, stop off at Fort Leaton! The historic trading post is the western Visitor Center of the state park and is a great reprieve from the heat, offering a museum, programs, tours and events.
No matter what you do, we recommend you:
– Start from the beginning: Are you new to Texas State Parks? Check out the State Parks for Beginners site with many tips and tricks for the newcomer.
– Reserve passes online for day trips and overnight: Reserve day passes and campsites in advance for most parks through the TPWD website. Through the online portal, you can narrow your search by city, activity and even by site. If you want to bike, hike or fish, look for parks with day passes available (up to 30 days in advance). For overnight camping, search the “Camping This Weekend” tab to see which parks have sites open for the upcoming Friday and Saturday.
– Check the weather: Texas is notorious for wacky weather, so be sure to check the forecast before hitting the road. Spring storms can sweep in unexpectedly. We recommend having a backup plan in case Mother Nature throws a wrench into your outdoor plans.
– Wear proper clothing: Flip-flops may be comfortable, but they aren’t the best option for long walks on the trail. Rangers recommend wearing sneakers or boots for hikes. Don’t forget the sunscreen, insect repellent and plenty of water. It’s important to drink at least 16 ounces of water every hour to prevent dehydration. Bring enough for your four-legged family members, too!
– Participate in a park program or activity: Park staff will be hosting many guided activities during spring break, including bird walks, kayaking tours, archery 101 classes, arts and crafts, yoga in the park and cooking demos, just to name a few. A complete list of activities can be found on the TPWD calendar page. Looking for a specific activity? Check the “Activities” page for recommendations. Visitors will also have many other activities to choose from outside of the scheduled programs, including geocaching, the Junior Ranger Program and strolls on the trails. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or want to try fishing for the first time, we encourage you to take advantage of the free fishing from the shore at state parks (no license required). And what better time to do that than during spring break when the white-bass run is going strong.
– Visit somewhere new: With 87 Texas State Parks located throughout the state, there are plenty of things to see and do. Take a chance and explore a new park or part of the state you have yet to experience. Still looking for overnight reservations? Many unique state parks still have campsites available.
– Download the app: Did you know there is an app to help you enjoy all our state parks have to offer? Download the official Texas State Parks Guide app on the Apple App Store or from Google Play to access park maps, find events, check park alerts, and more.
For more information, visit the Texas State Parks website at TexasStateParks.org.
Information source: Texas Parks and Wildlife Department
Hidalgo County Judge Richard F. Cortez addresses attendees at the RioPlex Deal Structuring Forum in downtown Harlingen, emphasizing the importance of regional unity among government, education, and business leaders to attract investment and create career opportunities across the Rio Grande Valley. Image by Texas Border Business
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By Texas Border Business
Leaders from banking, government, business, and economic development gathered for the RioPlex Deal Structuring Forum on March 11, 2026, at the historic Post Office Building at 221 E. Van Buren Ave. in downtown Harlingen, Texas. The event brought together regional officials and financial experts to explain tools and strategies that can support investment and economic development in the Rio Grande Valley.
Morgan Lamantia, a RioPlex board member, opened the forum with introductions and welcoming remarks. Harlingen Mayor Norma Sepulveda followed by welcoming participants to the city and the downtown venue.
Hidalgo County Judge Richard F. Cortez delivered remarks under the theme “United We Can Accomplish Anything,” focusing on the importance of regional collaboration through the RioPlex initiative. Cortez said cooperation among government leaders, educators, and business owners strengthens the Rio Grande Valley’s ability to compete for industry and investment. Cortez said, “That unity gives us a very strong competitive advantage. Government leaders, educators, and business owners, we create an environment where industries want to invest. Where companies can grow, and our workforce can build careers right here in our home.”
Cortez said the region already has the key ingredients needed for economic growth. He pointed to the Valley’s young and growing workforce, its strategic access to international trade, and the presence of universities, colleges, and training programs that are preparing the next generation of workers. Cortez said these assets position the region to attract new industries and support long-term economic development.
He said the goal of the RioPlex effort is to strengthen cooperation across the region, so communities work together to promote investment and opportunity. Cortez said, “The good news is that our region has all those ingredients for our success. We do have a young and growing workforce. We have strategic access to international trade. We have universities, colleges, and training programs that are ready to adapt and prepare the next generation.”
Cortez said the work being done through RioPlex is focused on creating opportunities for residents across South Texas. Cortez said, “That is the future that we’re working towards through RioPlex. That is what today is all about.” He also thanked participants for their involvement in the regional effort. Cortez said, “Your leadership, your cooperation, and your commitment to this region are essential for us to succeed in this mission.”
Ron Garza of the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley Workforce and Economic Development Office was also invited to share brief remarks during the forum. Garza said, “The Rio Grande Valley is receiving more attention than it has ever had before, and while that brings new challenges, it also creates opportunities. To move forward, our region must strengthen its strategy and turn regional collaboration into operational collaboration, because government and higher education cannot advance economic development without private investment.”
Joaquin Spamer, president of CIL Group and chairman of the RioPlex board, spoke on the topic “We Have the Talent and Capital to Do Anything in RioPlex.” Rey Garcia of Texas National Bank presented information on New Market Tax Credits, a federal program designed to encourage private investment in economically distressed communities. Randy Perez, economic development director for Hidalgo County, discussed property tax abatements and how local governments can use them to support new projects.
Albert Perez, city manager for Mercedes, Texas, explained how Tax Increment Reinvestment Zones, commonly known as TIRZ, can finance redevelopment and infrastructure by reinvesting increases in property tax revenue within designated areas. Eric Naranjo, associate director of environmental infrastructure finance at the North American Development Bank, described financing options available through NADBank for infrastructure projects in the U.S.-Mexico border region.
Mario Reyna, executive director of RioPlex, delivered closing remarks at the forum. Presenters explained how tools such as New Market Tax Credits, property tax abatements, and Tax Increment Reinvestment Zones can be used together with other financing sources to help structure development projects and attract investment to the Rio Grande Valley.
Brownsville Navigation District Vice Chairman Sergio Tito Lopez presented a sponsorship check to the Brownsville ISD Racing Team in February, supporting the students’ efforts as they prepare for upcoming GreenpowerUSA competitions. Image courtesy of the Port of Brownsville
Texas Border Business
BROWNSVILLE, Texas – The Brownsville Navigation District is proud to sponsor the Brownsville Independent School District (BISD) Racing Team as part of its commitment to workforce development and STEM education.
Established in 2017, the BISD Racing Team competes in the GreenpowerUSA Electric Car Challenge, a nationwide program that challenges students from fourth grade through college to design, build and race electric vehicles. The initiative promotes careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics by providing hands-on opportunities to apply classroom learning to real-world engineering challenges.
For eight consecutive years, the team qualified for the National Finals but was unable to attend because of financial constraints. In May 2025, eight students traveled to Birmingham, Alabama, to compete at Nationals for the first time. The team was the only all-female team in the competition and earned a third-place finish in the nation.
The Port of Brownsville is proud to support programs that highlight the talent and determination of Brownsville students.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Office of Field Operations officers assigned to ports of entry within the Laredo Field Office area of responsibility this week apprehended multiple individuals wanted on outstanding felony warrants for homicide and a variety of sex-related offenses. Image for illustration purposes
Texas Border Business
LAREDO, Texas — U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Office of Field Operations officers assigned to ports of entry within the Laredo Field Office area of responsibility this week apprehended multiple individuals wanted on outstanding felony warrants for homicide and a variety of sex-related offenses.
On Feb. 27, CBP officers at Laredo’s Juarez-Lincoln Bridge referred bus passenger Emilio Vega Aguado, 30, a United States citizen, for secondary inspection. During secondary examination, CBP officers utilizing biometric verification and federal law enforcement databases, verified his identity and discovered that he was the subject of an active felony warrant for first-degree murder, issued by the Chicago Police Department. CBP officers confirmed the warrant and transported Vega Aguado to Webb County jail to await criminal proceedings.
On March 1, CBP officers at the Camino Real International Bridge in Eagle Pass referred a pedestrian, Luis Garcia Fernandez, 62, a Mexican citizen, for secondary inspection. During secondary examination, CBP officers utilizing biometric verification and federal law enforcement databases verified his identity and discovered that he was the subject of an active felony warrant for second-degree sexual assault, issued by the Austin Police Department. CBP officers confirmed the warrant and transported Garcia Fernandez to Maverick County jail to await criminal proceedings.
On March 4, CBP officers at Progreso International Bridge referred vehicle passenger Isaac Isai Pulido, 22, a U.S. citizen, for secondary inspection. During secondary examination, CBP officers utilizing biometric verification and federal law enforcement databases, verified his identity and discovered that he was the subject of an active felony warrant for sexual assault of a child, issued by the Alamo Police Department. CBP officers confirmed the warrant and turned Pulido over to Alamo police officers for adjudication of the warrant.
On March 5, CBP officers conducting outbound operations at the Juarez-Lincoln Bridge encountered Rafael Bello-Solis, 60, a Mexican citizen, as a passenger aboard a commercial bus exiting the country into Mexico. The bus and subject were referred for a secondary inspection. During inspection, it was determined that the subject did not possess documents to enter or remain in the United States. Subsequent biometric verification through law enforcement databases confirmed that the subject had an outstanding felony warrant for indecency with a child by (sexual) contact out of the Collin County Sheriff’s Office in McKinney, Texas. Bello-Solis was turned over to the Webb County Sheriff’s Office to await criminal proceedings.
“Apprehending individuals wanted for such heinous crimes as sexual assault and homicide is a testament to the unwavering dedication of our officers,” said Donald R. Kusser, Director of Field Operations, Laredo Field Office. “Each apprehension brings us closer to honoring victims, ensuring accountability, and enhancing the safety of our communities. To have secured multiple arrests over the past week is a truly commendable achievement.”
The National Crime Information Center is a centralized automated database designed to share information among law enforcement agencies including outstanding warrants for a wide range of offenses. Based on information from NCIC, CBP officers have made previous arrests of individuals wanted for homicide, escape, money laundering, robbery, narcotics distribution, sexual child abuse, fraud, larceny, and military desertion. Criminal charges are merely allegations. Defendants are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.
