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Donna Man Gets 12 Years After Deadly 2024 Assault

On Tuesday, February 17, 2026, 398th District Court Judge L. Keno Vasquez sentenced Travis Leon Trevino, 35, of Donna, Texas to 12 years in prison after the court heard arguments by counsel as well as impact statements from the victim’s family. Image courtesy of Hidalgo County
On Tuesday, February 17, 2026, 398th District Court Judge L. Keno Vasquez sentenced Travis Leon Trevino, 35, of Donna, Texas to 12 years in prison after the court heard arguments by counsel as well as impact statements from the victim’s family. Image courtesy of Hidalgo County

DONNA – A Donna man will spend more than a decade in prison for manslaughter.

On Tuesday, February 17, 2026, 398th District Court Judge L. Keno Vasquez sentenced Travis Leon Trevino, 35, of Donna, Texas to 12 years in prison after the court heard arguments by counsel as well as impact statements from the victim’s family.

The evidence revealed that on December 13, 2024, Hidalgo County Sheriff’s Deputies responded to a residence off Bustamante Street in Weslaco, Texas in reference to a male who was assaulted. The victim, identified as Isaac Martinez, was found unconscious and covered in blood inside a vehicle.

It was revealed that Trevino assaulted Martinez after a disagreement. Martinez was rushed to the emergency care but died hours later due to the assault with complications of cirrhosis.

On October 21, 2025, Trevino pled guilty to manslaughter and was awaiting sentencing.

During the sentencing, Judge Vasquez heard about the effect the victim’s senseless death has had on his family.

“Today’s sentence speaks loud and clear to Trevino and other violent offenders,” said Palacios. “Our community will not tolerate vicious crimes and will hold violators accountable for their actions.”

The charges are the result of an investigation conducted by the Hidalgo County Sheriff’s Office.

Assistant Criminal District Attorney Cassandra Hernandez-Castillo prosecuted the case.

Former Texas Most Wanted Criminal Sentenced to 38 Years for Child Sexual Assault

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Former Texas 10 Most Wanted Criminal Illegal Immigrant Jose Miguel Zelaya-Ponce will spend nearly four decades behind bars following his recent sentencing in Harris Co. The now 22-year-old Honduran national was found guilty on enhanced charges of continuous sexual assault of a child and sentenced to 38 years in prison on Jan. 13, 2026. Photo: Texas DPS
Former Texas 10 Most Wanted Criminal Illegal Immigrant Jose Miguel Zelaya-Ponce will spend nearly four decades behind bars following his recent sentencing in Harris Co. The now 22-year-old Honduran national was found guilty on enhanced charges of continuous sexual assault of a child and sentenced to 38 years in prison on Jan. 13, 2026. Photo: Texas DPS

AUSTIN – Former Texas 10 Most Wanted Criminal Illegal Immigrant Jose Miguel Zelaya-Ponce will spend nearly four decades behind bars following his recent sentencing in Harris Co. The now 22-year-old Honduran national was found guilty on enhanced charges of continuous sexual assault of a child and sentenced to 38 years in prison on Jan. 13, 2026.

In July 2024, the Texas Rangers received information from Border Patrol about a possible human smuggling case involving a female driver and two passengers – a male juvenile and an 11-year-old pregnant female – in Sierra Blanca. During the Texas Rangers’ investigation, the driver admitted she was in the country illegally with her two sons – the male juvenile passenger and another older son living in Houston who was identified as Jose Miguel Zelaya-Ponce. It was discovered that Zelaya-Ponce had impregnated the 11-year-old female passenger. The female driver was arrested for human smuggling of a minor under the age of 18, and a warrant for Zelaya-Ponce’s arrest was issued out of Harris Co. 

The next month, in August 2024, Zelaya-Ponce was added to Texas’ 10 Most Wanted Criminal Illegal Immigrants List and was captured on Aug. 23, 2024, by Texas Department of Public Safety’s (DPS) Criminal Investigations Division (CID) Special Agents assigned to the Texas Anti-Gang (TAG) Center in Houston, along with Texas Rangers and Texas Highway Patrol (THP) Troopers.

In the months following Zelaya-Ponce’s capture, DNA testing confirmed Zelaya-Ponce was the biological father of the young female victim’s child. Upon further investigation, law enforcement also learned that the young female victim had been living with Zelaya-Ponce in Houston and experienced continuous sexual abuse. Zelaya-Ponce was ultimately convicted in Harris Co. for continuous sexual assault of a child on Jan. 13, 2026, and sentenced to 38 years of confinement in a Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) prison.

Cases like this highlight the importance of collaborative investigative work between DPS and our partner law enforcement agencies. The department would like to specifically thank Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), U.S. Border Patrol (USBP) and the University of North Texas Center for Human Identification for their dedication and support in bringing justice to the female victim in this case.

About Texas’ 10 Most Wanted Program

Funded by the Governor’s Public Safety Office, Texas Crime Stoppers offers rewards to any person who provides information that leads to the arrest of one of Texas’ 10 Most Wanted Fugitives, Sex Offenders or Criminal Illegal Immigrants. 

DPS investigators work with local law enforcement agencies to select fugitives for the Texas 10 Most Wanted Fugitives, Sex Offenders and Criminal Illegal Immigrants lists who pose the most significant threat to public safety in the state. You can find the current lists — with photos — on the DPS website.

Thousands of Trafficked Guns Intercepted Before Reaching Mexico

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) today announced that since January 20, 2025, it has seized 36,277 illegal crime guns and 2,317,999 rounds of ammunition from prohibited persons, gang members, and suppliers for transnational criminal organizations. Image for illustration purposes
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) today announced that since January 20, 2025, it has seized 36,277 illegal crime guns and 2,317,999 rounds of ammunition from prohibited persons, gang members, and suppliers for transnational criminal organizations. Image for illustration purposes

Office of Public Affairs / Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) announced that since January 20, 2025, it has seized 36,277 illegal crime guns and 2,317,999 rounds of ammunition from prohibited persons, gang members, and suppliers for transnational criminal organizations.

4,359 of these seized firearms were bound for Mexico, where they would have been used by violent drug cartels and gangs.  648,975 rounds of the seized ammunition were bound for Mexico, which averages to over 1,600 rounds per day.

4,359 of these seized firearms were bound for Mexico, where they would have been used by violent drug cartels and gangs.  648,975 rounds of the seized ammunition were bound for Mexico, which averages to over 1,600 rounds per day. Image courtesy of Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives

Since President Donald Trump’s inauguration on January 20, 2025, ATF has led an aggressive nationwide effort to dismantle the domestic and international networks that arm violent criminals.

“Illegal crime guns increasingly originate from every state in the country. This is not a southwest border problem, it is a national threat,” said ATF Deputy Director Robert Cekada. “ATF agents are aggressively targeting gangs, cartels, and transnational criminal organizations that illegally traffic firearms and turn American streets into war zones. We will dismantle these networks at every level, cut off their access to weapons, and hold every criminal fully accountable under the law”.

Through advanced Crime Gun Intelligence (NIBIN, firearms tracing, and touch DNA), ATF partners with state and local law enforcement to investigate, identify, and prosecute violent offenders.  At the same time, we safeguard lawful commerce and uphold the Constitution. Image courtesy of Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives

ATF protects America’s communities by confronting violent crime driven by the illegal use of firearms, explosives and acts of arson.  Our special agents concentrate on identifying and dismantling illegal firearms traffickers who fuel violence by arming prohibited persons, gang members, drug cartels, illegal aliens and terrorist organizations.

Through advanced Crime Gun Intelligence (NIBIN, firearms tracing, and touch DNA), ATF partners with state and local law enforcement to investigate, identify, and prosecute violent offenders.  At the same time, we safeguard lawful commerce and uphold the Constitution. 

More information about ATF and its programs is available at www.atf.gov.

Information source: Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives

New Advisory Committee Formed to Guide Long‑Term Water Planning in the RGV

Troy Dorman from Halff. Courtesy image

WESLACO, Texas – This morning, the four County Judges of the Rio Grande Valley (RGV) launched the Advisory Committee for the RGV Water Management Study supported by the North American Development Bank (NADBank). The committee, composed of technical experts and key water users from Cameron, Hidalgo, Starr and Willacy Counties, will provide guidance to the County Judges’ Steering Committee on strategic planning, operational coordination, and stakeholder engagement. Their work will help identify infrastructure projects that advance water diversification and conservation throughout the Valley.

The committee, composed of technical experts and key water users from Cameron, Hidalgo, Starr and Willacy Counties, will provide guidance to the County Judges’ Steering Committee on strategic planning, operational coordination, and stakeholder engagement. Courtesy image

The meeting was presided over by Hidalgo County Judge Richard F. Cortez, Cameron County Deputy County Administrator Dan Serna, and Salvador Lopez, NADBank Chief Environmental Officer.

“Water is the foundation of our region’s economy, public health, and quality of life,” said Hidalgo County Judge Richard F. Cortez. “By bringing together technical experts, water users, and regional leaders, this Advisory Committee will help us move beyond short-term fixes and toward long-term, sustainable solutions that protect the Rio Grande Valley’s future.”

“Securing the Rio Grande Valley’s water future requires all of us rowing in the same direction. This Advisory Committee brings together the expertise and regional cooperation needed to identify real, long-term solutions. Cameron County is proud to work alongside our neighboring counties and NADBank to ensure that families, farmers, and businesses have the reliable water supply they deserve for generations to come”, stated Cameron County Judge Eddie Treviño, Jr.

During the meeting, the Advisory Committee members were introduced followed by a presentation on their roles and responsibilities. The committee was also provided an update on the results of the first phase of the study including its Governance Plan, which is an essential element for the success of the study by supporting regional collaboration, building momentum, and fostering trust.

“This collaborative study between the four Rio Grande Valley County Judges and NADBank will ensure that all relevant voices in the region are engaged in identifying solutions to ensure water supplies for future growth and to increase the region’s ability to withstand droughts,” stated Salvador Lopez. He added, “NADBank is pleased to support this important study through grant resources from its Technical Assistance Program, which will help guide future critical projects to secure the region’s water supply”.

Members of the Advisory Committee include the Cities of Raymondville, Rio Grande City, Brownsville, McAllen, Roma, Los Fresnos, and Donna; the water supply corporations of East Rio Hondo, North Alamo and Sharyland; the flood control/ stormwater districts of Cameron County Drainage District #5, Hidalgo County Drainage District #1, Starr County Drainage System and Willacy County Drainage District #2; the irrigation districts (ID) of Lower Rio Valley ID Managers Association, Cameron ID #2, Delka Lake ID and Hidalgo County ID #6; as well as groundwater conservation districts of Red Sand, Texas International Produce Association and Texas Farm Bureau District 13, the Lower Rio Grande Development Council and the RGV Partnership.


The North American Development Bank is a binational financial institution that supports environmental infrastructure projects along the U.S.-Mexico Border. By promoting investments in water, clean energy and other critical sectors, NADBank works to improve the quality of life in border communities and advance sustainable economic growth throughout the region. www.nadbank.org

Information source: North American Development Bank (NADBank)

Texas AG Launches New Legal Action Over Alleged CCP‑Connected Drone Threat

Attorney General Ken Paxton sued Anzu Robotics, LLC (“Anzu”) for misleading Texas consumers about the origin, data practices, and security risks of its drones, which are rebranded products of Chinese drone manufacturer DJI and tied to the Chinese Communist Party (“CCP”). Image for illustration purposes
Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton. Image: X

AUSTIN – Attorney General Ken Paxton sued Anzu Robotics, LLC (“Anzu”) for misleading Texas consumers about the origin, data practices, and security risks of its drones, which are rebranded products of Chinese drone manufacturer DJI and tied to the Chinese Communist Party (“CCP”). This is the second major lawsuit filed this week against a China-aligned company after Attorney General Paxton’s sued TP Link yesterday.

The United States government has taken steps to blacklist DJI drones due to their links to the CCP, including concerns that DJI technology enables surveillance, data collection, and potential access by the Chinese government. According to the lawsuit, DJI responded to these restrictions by partnering with Anzu Robotics and using it as a passthrough entity to evade state and federal requirements and continue to sell DJI technology in the United States under a different name.

“Anzu Robotics products are nothing more than a 21st century trojan horse linked to the CCP,” said Attorney General Paxton. “My office is taking several targeted actions against CCP-aligned companies this week to protect the people of Texas and stop Communist China’s influence in Texas. No company will be allowed to deceive Texans and serve as a pathway for foreign adversaries to exploit American markets, access personal data, or threaten our national security.”

Anzu failed to disclose its business relationship with DJI and falsely claimed that its drones would not be tied to the CCP. However, an investigation by Attorney General Paxton’s office identified concerns that Anzu drones use DJI hardware, DJI-signed and encrypted firmware, and DJI software components, which leave the same vulnerabilities intact.

Attorney General Paxton is seeking injunctive relief to end Anzu’s deceptive practices in Texas, civil penalties, and other relief authorized by law to protect Texans’ safety and our national security.

To read the lawsuit, click here.

Governor Announces $149 Million Cybersecurity Grant To Texas Tech University

Governor Greg Abbott announced that his Public Safety Office (PSO) has awarded $149 million to Texas Tech University to support the development of an Electromagnetic Pulse (EMP) testing site and cybersecurity infrastructure enhancements. Image for illustration purposes
Governor Greg Abbott announced that his Public Safety Office (PSO) has awarded $149 million to Texas Tech University to support the development of an Electromagnetic Pulse (EMP) testing site and cybersecurity infrastructure enhancements. Image for illustration purposes

AUSTIN — Governor Greg Abbott announced that his Public Safety Office (PSO) has awarded $149 million to Texas Tech University to support the development of an Electromagnetic Pulse (EMP) testing site and cybersecurity infrastructure enhancements. This strategic investment strengthens ongoing efforts to safeguard the nation by advancing research that addresses escalating threats to critical infrastructure across Texas and the United States.

“This $149 million investment in cybersecurity will ensure that our state’s critical infrastructure systems are capable of withstanding attacks from hostile foreign adversaries,” said Governor Abbott. “The researchers at Texas Tech lead the nation in safeguarding critical infrastructure from hackers and hostile foreign actors. Through initiatives like the Texas Cyber Command and investments into the safety and security of our state, Texas is on the path to be a national leader in cybersecurity.”

“Texas Tech has established itself as a leader in advancing critical national security initiatives through its world-class research and innovation,” said Speaker Dustin Burrows. “This investment strengthens that momentum, expanding cutting-edge initiatives at Reese National Security Complex to better protect our critical infrastructure and strengthen our nation’s defense capabilities. I am thankful to Governor Abbott for his leadership keeping Texas at the forefront of national security and public safety.”

“This investment cements Texas Tech’s role as a national leader in protecting our critical infrastructure from emerging threats,” said Senator Charles Perry. “Lubbock has long been a place where hard work and innovation meet, and this EMP testing site positions West Texas at the forefront of defending our electric grid, water systems, and military assets. I am proud to see Texas Tech advancing research that strengthens our national security while creating opportunity and workforce development right here at home.”

This grant will expand initiatives aimed at identifying vulnerabilities and reinforcing the protection of essential infrastructure systems, including the electric grid, water utilities, communications networks, military systems, and other assets vital to Texas’ economic stability and national security. Through this initiative, Texas Tech University will collaborate with the U.S. Army, Air Force, and Navy, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, the U.S. Department of Energy, and private industry partners to advance national security research and workforce training.

The Governor’s Public Safety Office administers a broad portfolio of state and federal grant programs dedicated to protecting lives and property from a wide range of threats in coordination with federal, state, and local partners. The PSO strengthens public safety, enhances infrastructure security, and safeguards the economic prosperity of the State of Texas. 

Young Cybersecurity Talent Takes Lead in Protecting Valley Businesses

Maximiliano Rodriguez, 17, says he is already helping to safeguard the Rio Grande Valley’s digital future through an innovative Cybersecurity Clinic. He is part of a group of 12 students who are stepping up to provide free cybersecurity services to small businesses and nonprofit organizations. STC image
Maximiliano Rodriguez, 17, says he is already helping to safeguard the Rio Grande Valley’s digital future through an innovative Cybersecurity Clinic. He is part of a group of 12 students who are stepping up to provide free cybersecurity services to small businesses and nonprofit organizations. STC image

By Joey Gomez

McALLEN, Texas – At just 17 years old, Maximiliano Rodriguez is already helping to safeguard the Rio Grande Valley’s digital future through an innovative Cybersecurity Clinic created by South Texas College, through a National Science Foundation Grant and the national Consortium of Cybersecurity Clinics.  

Backed by a $467,000 grant, the clinic marks the Rio Grande Valley’s first initiative of its kind. The three-year program provides free cybersecurity services to small businesses and nonprofit organizations while giving students hands-on experience in areas such as risk assessment, vulnerability analysis, incident response planning and cyber defense strategies.

The Vanguard Academy senior, who is earning an associate degree in Cybersecurity through STC’s Dual Credit Programs, has already built a stellar resume that includes Information Technology experience through Vanguard, a cybersecurity apprenticeship shadowing professionals with the city of Pharr and now selection into the college’s inaugural Cybersecurity Clinic cohort.

For Rodriguez, it was a journey that began in eighth grade.

“I knew I was good with computers,” he said. “But when I took that first Cybersecurity class, it opened my eyes. It’s different. It’s about protecting people.”

That early exposure sparked a clear direction. Through dual credit, Rodriguez said he began working toward his associate degree while still in high school and to build the future he long envisioned.

“I started looking for opportunities beyond the classroom,” he said. “I wanted to apply what I was learning in a real-world setting.”

That mindset led him to apply to STC’s newly launched Cybersecurity Clinic, where he was chosen among 12 students from STC’s bachelor’s program in Computer and Information Technologies (BAT-CIT) as well as its Cybersecurity associate and certificate programs.

“It has been an incredible experience,” Rodriguez said. “Being surrounded by people who think like me, who want to make a career in Cybersecurity…it’s exciting. I’m helping my community and putting my knowledge to the test.”

Rodriguez and his teammates are currently preparing cybersecurity awareness training presentations while awaiting finalized agreements from participating organizations. Once deployed, they will work directly with businesses to help strengthen digital defenses under the supervision of faculty mentors.

“Cybersecurity is about helping. It’s about protecting and lending your expertise to others,” he said. “This is something that really resonates with my values.”

Faculty members say Rodriguez represents the next generation of cybersecurity professionals emerging from this region.

“Max has come a long way,” said Nicholas Hinojosa, CIT assistant professor and principal investigator for the Cybersecurity Clinic. “I’m looking forward to seeing all the great things he does, not only in the clinic, but in his future career.”

Rodriguez’s future is already taking shape. He has been admitted to the University of Texas at Austin where he plans to pursue a degree in Computer Science with a concentration in Cybersecurity. His long-term goal is to become a cybersecurity engineer.

Through all of his experiences at STC, Rodriguez said being part of the Cybersecurity Clinic brings special meaning.

“We are paving the way for the next group of students who are coming after us,” he said. “It’s innovation. It’s something the community really needs. So, to these future students I say ‘Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. Find ways to help your community while building yourself up.’”

For more information about STC’s Cybersecurity Clinic visit    southtexascollege.edu/academics/cybersecurity/clinic.html.

Information source: STC

Texas Adds Over 1,000 New Residents Every Day

New population estimates were recently released by the US Census Bureau, and the results indicate that the pace of growth has slowed significantly, driven (not surprisingly) primarily by a drop in international migration. Image for illustration purposes
New population estimates were recently released by the US Census Bureau, and the results indicate that the pace of growth has slowed significantly, driven (not surprisingly) primarily by a drop in international migration. Image for illustration purposes
Dr. M. Ray Perryman, President and Chief Executive Officer of The Perryman Group. Courtesy Image

New population estimates were recently released by the US Census Bureau, and the results indicate that the pace of growth has slowed significantly, driven (not surprisingly) primarily by a drop in international migration. For the United States, population grew by 1.8 million (0.5%) between July 1, 2024, and July 1, 2025, with international migration dropping to 1.3 million from 2.7 million in the prior year. 

While the pace of growth slowed in Texas as well, the increase was far larger than any other state at more than 391,240 – about 1,072 new Texans every day. Rounding out the top five were Florida (196,680), North Carolina (145,90), Georgia (98,540), and South Carolina (79,958). In terms of the pace of expansion (fastest rather than largest increase), South Carolina led the way, followed by Idaho, North Carolina, Texas, and Utah. 

The pattern among states was quite uneven, though all but five expanded. California experienced the largest decline, with a loss of almost 9,470 residents; Hawaii, New Mexico, Vermont and West Virginia also decreased. 

Taking a closer look at the Texas changes, the 1.25% rate of increase was substantially larger than the national pace of 0.52%. However, the most recent uptick (391,240) represents significant slowing from the previous years, when it was approximately 599,330 (2024) and 601,250 (2023). As with the nation, the primary reason for the drop is international migration, which fell from over 354,860 for the year ended July 2024 to 167,480 last year. In-migration from other states was also down (from 86,070 to 67,300). 

A few key takeaways are worthy of note. First, the opportunities in Texas continue to draw new residents to the state. These people represent workers essential to the ongoing expansion of the economy. It’s a sharp contrast to some areas, such as California, where people continue to exit due to high costs of living, slower job creation, and other problems. 

Second, reasonable paths for people from other countries to live and work legally in the United States (and, especially, Texas) are crucial to future growth in the workforce. While border security is clearly essential, there are industries already facing severe worker shortages (construction, agriculture, and hospitality, for example), and without international migration these problems will worsen. 

Third, with well over a thousand people arriving in Texas every day (even after things have slowed), we need to remain on top of the needed investments to maintain quality of life, productivity, and, indeed, sustainability. From education to highways, water, and electricity, a growing population requires expanding infrastructure. 

Growth in the Texas population has slowed, but it remains significantly more robust than most parts of the country. It’s an important competitive advantage, setting the stage for future economic expansion. Stay safe!

____________________________

Dr. M. Ray Perryman is President and Chief Executive Officer of The Perryman Group (www.perrymangroup.com), which has served the needs of over 3,000 clients over the past four decades.

Humberto de Faria Santos Remembered for His Dedication to Students and Service

With profound sadness, the community mourns the passing of Dr. Humberto de Faria Santos, Clinical Assistant Professor at the Texas A&M University Higher Education Center at McAllen. Courtesy image
With profound sadness, the community mourns the passing of Dr. Humberto de Faria Santos, Clinical Assistant Professor at the Texas A&M University Higher Education Center at McAllen. Courtesy image

Texas Border Business

With profound sadness, the community mourns the passing of Dr. Humberto de Faria Santos, Clinical Assistant Professor at the Texas A&M University Higher Education Center at McAllen.

Dr. Santos was widely respected as a devoted educator and mentor whose genuine care for students defined his work. Known for his kindness, encouragement, and solid commitment to service, he played a meaningful role in shaping the academic and personal journeys of countless students. His presence on campus extended beyond the classroom, fostering a culture of support, integrity, and Aggie spirit.

Colleagues remember him as a compassionate professional dedicated to excellence in higher education. Students recall his guidance, patience, and belief in their potential—qualities that left a lasting impression on many lives.

Heartfelt condolences are extended to Dr. Santos’ family, friends, colleagues, and students during this difficult time. His legacy of service and mentorship will remain an enduring part of the McAllen campus community.

Rest in peace, Dr. Santos. Forever an Aggie. Courtesy of Ernest Aliseda, COO & Assoc. VP Texas A&M-McAllen | fmr. Regent, University of Texas System

Monica de la Cruz hosts Edinburg leaders in Washington visit to connect South Texas with federal resources

City of Edinburg: Councilmember Gerry Lozano, Councilmember Daniel Diaz, Mayor Omar Ochoa, and Raudel Garza, Edinburg Economic Development Corp. Executive Director. Courtesy image
City of Edinburg: Councilmember Gerry Lozano, Councilmember Daniel Diaz, Mayor Omar Ochoa, and Raudel Garza, Edinburg Economic Development Corp. Executive Director. Courtesy image

Texas Border Business

Leaders from Edinburg, Texas, led by Mayor Omar Ochoa, traveled to Washington, D.C., last week at the invitation of Congresswoman Monica de la Cruz, who hosted the South Texas delegation as part of her second STX Days event focused on connecting local communities with federal resources and programs.

The South Texas leaders who joined us in DC last week! It’s my top priority to connect Texas to Washington and ensure our communities have access to resources, programs, and new opportunities to thrive. I appreciate all those who joined us – and I am already looking forward to our next STX Days. Courtesy image

According to event materials, the purpose of STX Days is to connect Texas to Washington and ensure communities have access to “resources, programs, and new opportunities to thrive.” The gathering brought together community leaders and local officials from across the congressional district to receive updates on federal initiatives and available funding.

Last week, I held my 2nd STX Days in Washington, DC. Community leaders and local officials from across the district came together to learn more about federal resources and programs available for our communities, as well as updates from the White House. Courtesy image

The Edinburg delegation included Mayor Omar Ochoa, Councilmember Gerry Lozano, Councilmember Daniel Diaz, and Raudel Garza, executive director of the Edinburg Economic Development Corporation. They joined other South Texas officials in meetings with federal agencies and congressional staff organized by Monica de la Cruz’s office.

Ronnie Kurtz, Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), Assistant Secretary for Community Planning and Development (CPD). Courtesy image

Representatives from the City of Pharr also attended, including Carlos Sanchez, president and chief executive officer of the Greater Pharr Chamber of Commerce, and Victoria Brewster, director of external relations for the City of Pharr.

City of Pharr: Carlos Sanchez, President and CEO of Greater Pharr Chamber of Commerce, and Victoria Brewster, City of Pharr, Director of External Relations. Courtesy image

Officials met with Kailee Buller, chief of staff to U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins, who provided updates on the agency’s work in South Texas to combat New World Screwworm and address Mexico’s compliance with 1944 Water Treaty deliveries. The group also received information on transportation priorities from Leslie Becera, principal deputy assistant secretary at the U.S. Department of Transportation, regarding efforts led by Secretary Sean Duffy to improve national infrastructure.

Kailee Buller, Chief of Staff for U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins. She shared important updates on USDA’s work in South Texas to combat the New World Screwworm and hold the Mexican government accountable for non-compliance with the 1944 Water Treaty’s delivery requirements. Courtesy image

Doug Disrud, staff director for the House Committee on Appropriations Subcommittee on Transportation, Housing, and Urban Development, shared information on transportation and housing community project funding for the upcoming year. Ronnie Kurtz, assistant secretary for Community Planning and Development at the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, outlined available grant programs intended to expand affordable housing and support community development across the district.

Doug Disrud, Staff Director of the Committee on Appropriations, Transportation, Housing, and Urban Development Subcommittee. Courtesy image

Event materials from the office of Congresswoman De la Cruz state that nearly $46 million has been secured for communities in the district since the current member of Congress took office, and that bringing investments back to Texas communities has been a top priority.

TX-15 is home to major transportation hubs from Seguin to McAllen. Leslie Becera, Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary at the Department of Transportation, shared insights into the vital work Secretary Sean Duffy is leading to improve our nation’s roads and skies. Courtesy image

Additional participants included City of Alamo officials City Manager Bobby Salinas, Economic Development Corporation Director Isauro Treviño, Mayor J.R. Garza, Mayor Pro Tem A.J. Garcia, and City Commissioner Roel Moreno Jr.; representatives from the City of George West and Live Oak, including Kitley Wasicek, Shirley Holm, Punky Kerr, Brooke Katz, and Kylie Smith; and a delegation from the City of Seguin that included City Manager Steve Parker, Mayor Donna Dodgen, and Elaine Bennett, chief executive officer of the Guadalupe Regional Medical Foundation.

City of Alamo: City Manager Bobby Salinas, EDC Director Isauro Treviño, Mayor J.R. Garza, Mayor Pro Tem A.J. Garcia, and City Commissioner Roel Moreno Jr. Courtesy image
City of Palmhurst Mayor Fred del Barrio. Courtesy image
City of George West and Live Oak. Courtesy image
City of Seguin. Courtesy image