The City of Brownsville and the Brownsville South Padre Island International Airport (BRO)announced the addition of Breeze Airways, introducing new year-round, nonstop service connecting Brownsville directly to Orlando International Airport (MCO). Image courtesy of The City of Brownsville
Texas Border Business
BROWNSVILLE, Texas — The City of Brownsville and the Brownsville South Padre Island International Airport (BRO) announced the addition of Breeze Airways, introducing new year-round, nonstop service connecting Brownsville directly to Orlando International Airport (MCO).
Beginning May 15, 2026, Breeze Airways will operate nonstop flights between BRO and Orlando on Mondays and Fridays, expanding travel options for residents, families, and businesses while strengthening regional connectivity to one of the nation’s most active leisure and business travel markets. Introductory fares will start as low as $79, with flights available for booking immediately.
Officials gather to announce the new service to Orlando. Photo Courtesy of The city of Brownsville
“As our city continues to grow, fueled by innovation, manufacturing, aerospace, logistics, and tourism, reliable andexpanded air service becomes increasingly vital,” said interim City Manager Alan Guard, CGFO. “This new nonstopconnection enhances our ability to attract investment, support local businesses, and give residents convenient access to major destinations.”
According to flight data, approximately 400 Brownsville-area residents regularly traveled to Orlando weekly without usingthe local airport, highlighting the need for convenient nonstop service close to home.
“We are excited to add Brownsville to our network,” said Bud Hafer Government and Airport Affairs for Breeze Airways.“This is a big announcement, and we’re excited to start service this summer.”
The new route significantly reduces travel time, keeps travel spending local, and strengthens economic and tourism ties between Brownsville, the Rio Grande Valley, and Central Florida.Additional information
Governor Greg Abbott and U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins made agricultural stops in South Texas to take proactive action on behalf of American farmers and ranchers. Photo: Office of the Governor
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MISSON, Texas – Governor Greg Abbott and U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins made agricultural stops in South Texas to take proactive action on behalf of American farmers and ranchers.
In Mission, the Governor and Secretary held a roundtable discussion with Texas agriculture producers regarding recent negotiations of the 1944 U.S.-Mexico Water Treaty to discuss the breakthrough agreement’s impacts on the Texas citrus industry.
“Thank you to President Trump for stepping up and doing more than any other President has ever done to enforce this treaty,” said Governor Abbott. The urgency of it was heard at this roundtable today. We have an obligation to ensure more water goes to the men and women who grow crops in our state.”
In Mission, the Governor and Secretary held a roundtable discussion with Texas agriculture producers regarding recent negotiations of the 1944 U.S.-Mexico Water Treaty to discuss the breakthrough agreement’s impacts on the Texas citrus industry. Photo: Office of The Governor
“Uncertainty over water deliveries from Mexico negatively impact South Texas especially,” said Secretary Rollins. “The State Department, USDA, and IBWC engaged our Mexican government counterparts to negotiate. Recent treaty negotiations have resulted in significant increases in deliveries and improvements in the reliability of the water cover. It’s time to make a change, and that’s what we’re working to do.”
During the roundtable, Governor Abbott and Secretary Rollins also discussed the passing of Proposition 4, a generational investment in Texas’ water infrastructure.
The Governor and Secretary were joined in Mission by Lone Star Citrus Growers President Jud Flowers, Lone Star Citrus Growers Vice President of Operations TJ Flowers, Texas Farm Bureau President Russell Boening, and other Texas agricultural producers.
U.S. Congressman Henry Cuellar, Ph.D. (TX-28), highlighted provisions he helped secure in the most recent appropriations package, which was signed into law, that prevent federal health agencies from delaying or canceling grants by cutting the staff needed to administer them. Image for illustration purposes
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LAREDO, TX – U.S. Congressman Henry Cuellar, Ph.D. (TX-28), highlighted provisions he helped secure in the most recent appropriations package, which was signed into law, that prevent federal health agencies from delaying or canceling grants by cutting the staff needed to administer them:
“South Texas depends on federal health and research dollars to keep clinics open, support rural providers, and protect public health. I worked to stop disruptions that would have hit Laredo and communities across our region.
“This bill includes enforceable guardrails to make sure agencies cannot undermine grants by cutting the personnel needed to process and manage them. That means funding administered by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, and the Health Resources and Services Administration, among many others, can keep moving as Congress intended.
“These dollars are not abstract. They support patient care, mental health services and frontline public health work. I will keep fighting to ensure federal health funding reaches South Texans reliably and on time.”
As part of the week’s outreach efforts, members of the McAllen Fire Department will join the trauma team from DHR Health at the McAllen Farmers Market at the McAllen Public Library on Saturday, Feb. 14, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. to provide hands on education and distribute safety materials to families. Image courtesy of The City of McAllen
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The City of McAllen has proclaimed the week of February 9, 2026, as National Burn Awareness Week, joining communities across the country in educating residents about the dangers of burn injuries and the simple actions families can take to stay safe at home.
During the regularly scheduled city commission, city leaders and public safety officials took a moment to remind residents that most burns are preventable. Cooking accidents, hot liquids, electrical hazards, and malfunctioning smoke alarms remain among the leading causes of burn-related injuries nationwide.
As part of the week’s outreach efforts, members of the McAllen Fire Department will join the trauma team from DHR Health at the McAllen Farmers Market at the McAllen Public Library on Saturday, Feb. 14, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. to provide hands on education and distribute safety materials to families. Firefighters and medical professionals will be available to answer questions and share practical ways residents can reduce burn risks in their homes.
The McAllen Fire Department encourages the community to follow these safety tips:
• Turn pot handles inward while cooking to prevent spills and scalds
• Test smoke detectors monthly and replace batteries at least twice a year
• Never leave candles or space heaters unattended
• Keep matches, lighters, and hot appliances out of children’s reach
National Burn Awareness Week is observed annually to highlight prevention, treatment, and
recovery resources. McAllen officials urge residents to share safety information with loved ones and to make burn prevention part of their everyday routines.
Navy Capt. Brian C. Bungay, Naval Base San Diego commanding officer, center, and base leadership are joined by Harborside Sports and Fitness Complex leaders during the grand opening of the Navy’s first and only Human Performance Optimization Program, Feb. 2, 2026. The program is a comprehensive, performance-based initiative designed to enhance an individual’s physical, mental, emotional and nutritional capabilities in order to maximize effectiveness, productivity and overall well-being. Photo: Navy Petty Officer 2nd Class Aja Bleu Campbell via US Department of War
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By Navy Lt. Drew Verbis, Naval Base San Diego Public Affairs / US Department of War
The Navy’s first and only Human Performance Optimization Program is officially open for business on board Naval Base San Diego. Navy Capt. Brian Bungay, base commanding officer, marked the milestone during a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the Harborside Sports and Fitness Complex Feb. 2.
The program is a comprehensive, performance-based initiative designed to enhance an individual’s physical, mental, emotional and nutritional capabilities in order to maximize effectiveness, productivity and overall well-being.
Sailors assigned to Naval Base San Diego visit information booths during the grand opening of the Navy’s first and only Human Performance Optimization Program at the Harborside Sports and Fitness Complex on base, Feb. 2, 2026. Photo: Navy Petty Officer 2nd Class Aja Bleu Campbell via US Department of War
“The Navy’s vision is clear — to enhance individual and team effectiveness by ensuring the health and viability of our warfighters,” Bungay said. “We must treat our sailors like world-class athletes, and the HPO initiative is a direct reflection of that vision.”
Navy fitness is expanding beyond traditional gym access and group exercise by introducing specialized staff, performance education and recovery-focused services specifically tailored to support warfighter readiness and resilience.
“As we move forward with the Total Sailor: Fit to Fight initiative, we must have the tools in place to ensure sailors remain our top priority and are postured for maximum combat readiness,” said Navy Master Chief Petty Officer Brian S. Metzger, Naval Surface Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet, command master chief. “The HPO Program brings top experts in nutrition, cognitive performance and fitness together under one roof — right near the waterfront — which is exactly what our sailors need and something that has never been done before.”
Bungay emphasized that the program is designed to provide sailors with the resources necessary to build and sustain peak physical and mental performance. “While Navy fitness focuses on general facility access, group exercise and standard routines, HPO delivers the Navy’s first performance-based program that supports the warfighter both inside and outside traditional brick-and-mortar facilities,” Bungay said. “It’s a place where sailors can push their limits, build resilience and develop the physical and mental toughness required to meet any challenge.”
Mary Kirby, Fleet and Family Readiness regional program director for Navy Region Southwest, echoed that sentiment, highlighting what sets HPO apart from existing programs.
“Our [morale, welfare and recreation] fitness programs are outstanding, but sailors typically choose their own path,” Kirby said. “What’s different here is that sailors begin with a series of evidence-based assessments.”
Those assessments — conducted by specialized, credentialed staff operating within defined professional scopes — include body composition analysis, recovery modalities, physical training evaluations, sleep and recovery strategies, stress management tools and nutrition fueling education.
“This model has been available at off-base commercial businesses and within select special warfare communities, but we’re excited to be the first to offer it at the installation level,” Kirby said. “Once metrics are collected and evaluated, the intent is to expand this program across the enterprise.”
Navy Petty Officer 2nd Class Troy Torres, an intelligence specialist assigned to Expeditionary Strike Group 3, encouraged fellow sailors to take advantage of the program.
“Step one is easy — come to the [Harborside Sports and Fitness Complex],” Torres said. “Step two, talk with an HPO specialist. You’ll quickly realize that fitness isn’t just about gym equipment, sets and reps.”
In an effort to increase access to health services and resources, DHR Health will host its 16th annual Community Health Fair on Saturday, February 21, 2026, at the Edinburg Conference Center at Renaissance, located at 118 Paseo del Prado in Edinburg. This free community event will take place from 8:00 a.m. to noon and is open to the public. Imager courtesy of DHR Health
Texas Border Business
EDINBURG, Texas – In an effort to increase access to health services and resources, DHR Health will host its 16th annual Community Health Fair on Saturday, February 21, 2026, at the Edinburg Conference Center at Renaissance, located at 118 Paseo del Prado in Edinburg. This free community event will take place from 8:00 a.m. to noon and is open to the public. Attendees can expect free health screenings, health education talks led by medical experts, and a variety of booths offering health resources from DHR Health and community partners. Individuals and families are encouraged to attend to receive free screenings, learn more about their health, and ask questions about common health concerns.
The Community Health Fair offers a convenient way for community members to access health information and services in one place. By bringing together healthcare professionals and local organizations, the event helps connect individuals and families with resources they may not otherwise seek out
Jorge Torres, President and CEO of Interlink. Courtesy image. Bgd for illustration purposes
Texas Border Business
By Roberto Hugo González / Texas Border Business
A common belief among importers is that if tariffs under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act are invalidated in court, refunds will automatically be issued. Jorge Torres, President and CEO of Interlink, cautions that this assumption is misleading. “At this point, even if the court determines that the IEEPA tariffs were imposed illegally, there is no guarantee of refunds,” Torres said.
Torres explained that companies should focus on preparation while litigation is still pending. He recommended that importers keep all documents organized and accessible, particularly entry packages, in case protests are filed. He also noted that trade attorneys are suggesting some importers consider filing suit against the government at the Court of International Trade, though he emphasized that this is a complex decision that must be reviewed by executive leadership with legal counsel.
The liquidation process handled by U.S. Customs and Border Protection is a critical factor in determining refund eligibility. Torres said entries generally liquidate 314 days from the date of entry, after which importers have 180 days to file a protest. Without careful monitoring, companies could lose their window to pursue refunds. “Over time, importers might lose opportunities for refunds if they are not actively monitoring liquidation dates,” he said.
When deciding whether to file a protective protest or pursue a claim in the Court of International Trade, Torres said the choice should be evaluated by a company’s executive team alongside legal advisors. While filing a court claim may increase the likelihood of obtaining a refund, he noted that the process can be both complicated and expensive. Torres added that the amount of money at stake should guide the decision.
Strong documentation is essential for any importer anticipating a possible refund claim. Torres said companies should ensure that all entry records are complete and readily accessible. These records include entry summaries, invoices, packing lists, certificates of origin, and related materials. He also advised importers to monitor liquidation and tariff payment reports closely to maintain a clear understanding of how much money could potentially be recovered.
Litigation before the Court of International Trade carries financial and strategic risks. Torres described the process as costly and somewhat complex, adding that some companies worry about possible government retaliation. “Some importers are hesitant to file lawsuits because they hold government contracts or fear government scrutiny,” he said.
For multinational organizations, Torres stressed that managing potential refund claims requires close coordination across departments. Trade compliance, logistics, finance, and legal teams should maintain constant communication to ensure documentation and reporting are ready should protests become necessary. Maximizing any opportunity for refunds, he noted, is a team effort that requires timing and precise coordination.
Texas 10 Most Wanted Fugitive Billy Joel Alfaro – a repeat offender wanted for various crimes across the state – is this month’s Featured Fugitive. The reward for information leading to his arrest is increased to $6,000 during February if the tip is received this month. Photo: Texas DPS
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AUSTIN – Texas 10 Most Wanted Fugitive Billy Joel Alfaro – a repeat offender wanted for various crimes across the state – is this month’s Featured Fugitive. The reward for information leading to his arrest is increased to $6,000 during February if the tip is received this month.
Billy Joel Alfaro,35, from Sugar Land,has been wanted out of Fort Bend Co. since Aug. 2, 2025, for aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, following his alleged involvement in firing shots at a Fort Bend Co. Sheriff’s Deputy. At the time of the incident, Alfaro was wanted out of Bexar Co. for assault and out of Brazoria Co. for a probation violation. Alfaro has past convictions of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and possession of a controlled substance. He received probation for both convictions.
Funded by the Governor’s Public Safety Office, Texas Crime Stoppers offers cash 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. In 2025, DPS and other agencies arrested 65 Texas 10 Most Wanted Fugitives, Sex Offenders and Criminal Illegal Immigrants, including 28 sex offenders and 13 criminal illegal immigrants – with $41,000 in rewards being paid for tips that yielded arrests.
To be eligible for cash rewards, tipsters MUST provide information to authorities using one of the following three methods:
Call the Crime Stoppers hotline at 1-800-252-TIPS (8477).
Submit a web tip through the DPS website by selecting the fugitive you have information about then clicking on the link under their picture.
Submit a Facebook tip by clicking the “SUBMIT A TIP” link (under the “About” section).
All tips are anonymous — regardless of how they are submitted — and tipsters will be provided a tip number instead of using a name.
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. You can find the current lists — with photos — on the DPS website.
A 29-year-old Mexican national has been ordered to federal prison for possessing narcotics with the intent to distribute. Image for illustration purposes
Texas Border Business
U.S. Attorney’s Office, Southern District of Texas
CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas – A 29-year-old Mexican national has been ordered to federal prison for possessing narcotics with the intent to distribute.
U.S. District Judge David Morales has now ordered Sotelo-Espinoza to serve 60 months in federal prison. Not a U.S. citizen, he is expected to face removal proceedings following his imprisonment. In handing down the sentence Feb. 4, the court noted Sotelo-Espinoza was not to return to the United States without permission.
On Aug. 15, 2025, law enforcement conducted a traffic stop on a white Chevrolet Silverado for a defective light. Sotelo-Espinoza was driving. Upon questioning, he appeared nervous and was breathing heavily, sweating, and his hands were shaking. He also gave inconsistent statements about his travels.
Authorities observed a second battery in the engine compartment that displayed evidence of tampering. An X-ray scan showed the batteries lacked internal components. A K-9 also alerted to the presence of narcotics.
Further investigation revealed two bundles wrapped in duct tape and electrical tape inside the battery. The packages weighed approximately 2.34 kilograms and tested positive for cocaine.
A subsequent search of the vehicle uncovered jumper cables and a wrench that fit the terminals on the battery located in the back seat.
Authorities also discovered Sotelo-Espinoza had deleted cell phone messages before they approached him and that the vehicle he was driving had made frequent trips from the Rio Grande Valley to Houston, returning the same day.
Sotelo-Espinoza has been and will remain in custody pending transfer to a Federal Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.
The Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation with assistance from Kingsville Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Yasmine K. Tucker prosecuted the case.
U.S. District Judge Sim Lake has now ordered Lam to serve 84 months in federal prison to be immediately followed by three years of supervised release. Image for illustration purposes
Texas Border Business
U.S. Attorney’s Office, Southern District of Texas
HOUSTON – A former Social Security employee has been ordered to federal prison for aggravated identity theft and conspiracy to steal government funds.
David Lam, 46, Pearland, pleaded guilty June 5, 2025.
U.S. District Judge Sim Lake has now ordered Lam to serve 84 months in federal prison to be immediately followed by three years of supervised release. At the hearing, the court heard about the complex nature of Lam’s scheme and how it involved dozens of fraudulent applications. Lam also used his access to personal data, which was necessary for his actual job duties, to facilitate his embezzlement and theft. Lam was further ordered to pay $3,346,280 in restitution.
Lam was an operations supervisor and claims specialist for the Social Security Administration office in Houston.
As part of his plea, Lam admitted to stealing the personally identifying information of recently deceased men and then using that PII to facilitate fraudulent benefits applications.
Lam worked with various coconspirators – typically, women with children – to file fraudulent survivor benefits applications listing the deceased men as the children’s fathers or stepfathers. If true, this would have entitled the women to receive benefits while raising their children as widows. However, the women had no connection to the men listed on the applications, and the deceased men did not father the children. To facilitate his scheme, Lam would utilize the deceased men’s names, dates of birth and death and Social Security numbers.
He would also instruct the coconspirators to split the stolen funds with him. The women would transfer funds via applications like Zelle, CashApp or Chime.
He was permitted to remain on bond and voluntarily surrender to a Federal Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.
The Social Security Administration Office of Inspector General conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Brad Gray prosecuted the case.
