Region One Education Service Center and South Texas College (STC) are partnering to expand and strengthen the teacher certification pipeline in the Region, collaborating to support students in completing a bachelor’s degree and Region One ESC’s Teacher Alternative Certification Program. STC image
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McALLEN, Texas – Region One Education Service Center and South Texas College (STC) are partnering to expand and strengthen the teacher certification pipeline in the Region, collaborating to support students in completing a bachelor’s degree and Region One ESC’s Teacher Alternative Certification Program.
Ali Esmaeili, STC dean of Math, Science, Information Technology and Bachelor Programs, said through this collaboration, STC and Region One are creating pathways for STC grads that are interested in pursuing teaching.
“This is our dynamic approach to finding a solution to the teacher shortage many schools in the region and statewide are facing,” said Esmaeili. “At STC, we always respond to the needs of our community, and this new pathway with Region One is vital to our education system and connecting our graduates to successful teaching careers.”
Through this partnership, the college will identify students interested in becoming certified educators with more than 48 college hours, from one of STC’s five bachelor’s programs, and develop a graduation plan to help them continue to and complete the teacher certification program. Region One may refer potential candidates to STC’s bachelor’s programs when aligned with participant needs and goals.
“We believe that a quality educator builds a quality community,” said Marissa Falcon, Region One ESC administrator for Educator Preparation & Development. “This partnership with South Texas College strengthens the pathway for aspiring teachers to complete their degree and enter the classroom fully prepared to serve students with high caliber instruction.”
Ricardo J. Solis, Ph.D., STC president, said Region One is a great partner that can connect STC graduates to numerous opportunities, and this teaching certification pathway is a testament to the shared commitment in education.
“We are excited and honored to be working with Region One on this initiative that expands access to teacher certification pathways,” said Solis. “We are helping to prepare the next generation of educators who will make a lasting impact in the classrooms they serve across the RGV and beyond. This also directly supports our regional workforce by creating a pipeline of teachers prepared to meet school district needs.”
Those interested in becoming certified educators may visit www.esc1.net/teachercert to learn more about Region One ESC’s Teacher Alternative Certification Program, certification pathways and eligibility requirements.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Office of Field Operations, Laredo Port of Entry officers detained one undocumented male Mexican citizen wanted for an alleged sexual crime against a child. Image for illustration purposes
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LAREDO, Texas – U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Office of Field Operations, Laredo Port of Entry officers detained one undocumented male Mexican citizen wanted for an alleged sexual crime against a child.
“Our officers remain unwavering in their commitment to protecting our communities,” said Port Director Alberto Flores, Laredo Port of Entry. “The apprehension of this undocumented individual, who was attempting to leave the country and was found to have an active warrant for a serious offense, demonstrates the vigilance and dedication of our frontline officers in identifying and detaining those who may pose a threat before they can cause further harm.”
The fugitive apprehension occurred on Jan. 21, 2026, when CBP Officers conducting outbound enforcement operations encountered Rogelio Isaac Hernandez Flores, a 35-year-old undocumented 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 a sexual offense of a child, involving lewd acts issued by the Modesto Police Department in Modesto, California. In California, Lewd acts against a child under 14 years of age are charged under severe criminal penalties and shall be punished by imprisonment for three, six, or eight years. Hernandez Flores was turned over to the Webb County Sheriff’s Office to await criminal proceedings.
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.
CEED MISSION TX – Image courtesy THE WARREN GROUP ARCHITECTS
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The Mission EDC CEED serves as a hub for business development, education, and professional training in Mission, Texas, hosting hundreds of meetups and programs across fields including artificial intelligence, real estate, leadership development, and media training.
The organization describes itself as “a convergence of talent, business, and innovation,” noting that its 55,000-square-foot business incubator “has served the region for nearly a decade and continues to be the choice for innovators, creatives, and educators.” The facility regularly hosts small-business workshops, leadership classes, professional training sessions, and industry-focused conferences.
The CEED building is home to academic programs and classes offered by several higher education institutions, including South Texas College, University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, Wayland Baptist University, and Texas Woman’s University. According to the organization, these partnerships allow the space to support both workforce development and continuing education throughout the year.
Private businesses and nonprofit organizations also operate from the facility. The CEED reports that companies such as Brand Geniuz and Junior’s Supermarket maintain offices in the building. Nonprofit organizations, including IDEA Public Schools and Teach For America, also use the site to conduct training programs year-round.
In addition to education and business activity, the CEED hosts dozens of law enforcement workshops annually, further expanding the range of professional development offered at the facility. Organizers describe the building as a multi-use space designed to meet regional workforce needs while supporting entrepreneurship and innovation.
The Mission EDC CEED summarizes its role simply: “That’s the Mission EDC CEED,” emphasizing its identity as a central gathering place for learning, business growth, and collaboration in the Rio Grande Valley.
The Valley Alliance of Mentors for Opportunities and Scholarships (VAMOS) recently announced that it will host its 30th Annual VAMOS Golf Tournament, on Saturday, March 7, 2026 at Champion Lakes Golf Course in McAllen, Texas. Image courtesy of DHR Health
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RIO GRANDE VALLEY, Texas – The Valley Alliance of Mentors for Opportunities and Scholarships (VAMOS) recently announced that it will host its 30th Annual VAMOS Golf Tournament, on Saturday, March 7, 2026 at Champion Lakes Golf Course in McAllen, Texas. This is the organization’s largest fundraiser and one of the most anticipated charitable sporting events in the Rio Grande Valley.
This year’s tournament marks a significant milestone as VAMOS celebrates 30 years of service to first-generation, low-income students across the Rio Grande Valley. In recognition of this year’s anniversary, VAMOS has a goal of raising $1 million in scholarship funds. Proceeds from the tournament will directly support four-year renewable scholarships, with awards of up to $20,000 over four academic years for students from Hidalgo, Cameron, and Starr counties.
“DHR Health’s unwavering support of VAMOS since 1997 reflects the profound impact that sustained community partnerships can have on the future of our region,” said Richard Cantu, President of the VAMOS Board of Directors. “DHR Health’s long-standing commitment to education has been instrumental in advancing our mission and truly changing lives across the Rio Grande Valley. As we celebrate our 30th anniversary, we are deeply thankful to DHR Health for standing with VAMOS for nearly three decades and for recognizing that investing in education opens doors of opportunity, strengthens our community, and transforms lives.”
In 2025, with the support of community sponsors and volunteers, VAMOS awarded four-year renewable scholarships to 63 students to attend the university of their choice. The 2026 fundraising goal will allow the organization to expand its reach and serve even more students across the region.
To register for the 30th Annual VAMOS Golf Tournament, please call the VAMOS office at (956) 800-4085.
Mission Mayor Norie Gonzalez Garza along with DHR Health and City of Mission officials at the recent Mission City Hall Meeting to proclaim January as Cervical Cancer Awareness Month. Image courtesy of DHR Health.
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MISSION, Texas – Representatives from the DHR Health Oncology Institute attended the Mission City Hall meeting on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, to proclaim January as Cervical Cancer Awareness Month. Cervical cancer is a serious health condition that is often preventable, yet about 13,000 people in the United States are diagnosed each year and nearly 4,000 lose their battle to the disease. Screening tests such as the Pap and HPV tests can detect early changes before cancer develops, and the HPV vaccine helps protect against the virus that causes most cervical cancers. Among the representatives, Amanda Wing, Community Outreach Coordinator for the DHR Health Oncology Institute, emphasized that early detection and vaccination save lives.
November and December 2025, with oil and natural gas extraction jobs rising by 500 to 70,200 (+0.7 percent m/m), while support activities employment grew by 1,500 to 133,200 (+1.1 percent m/m). Combined upstream employment increased by 2,000 jobs to 203,400 (+1.0 percent m/m), reported TIPRO. Image for illustration purposes
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AUSTIN – Citing the latest Current Employment Statistics (CES) report from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the Texas Independent Producers and Royalty Owners Association (TIPRO) highlighted new employment figures for the Texas oil and natural gas industry. According to TIPRO, employment in the Texas upstream sector increased between November and December 2025, with oil and natural gas extraction jobs rising by 500 to 70,200 (+0.7 percent m/m), while support activities employment grew by 1,500 to 133,200 (+1.1 percent m/m). Combined upstream employment increased by 2,000 jobs to 203,400 (+1.0 percent m/m), reported TIPRO.
From January to December 2025, employment in the Texas upstream sector showed early gains followed by later fluctuations, noted TIPRO. Oil and Gas Extraction added a net 2,000 jobs (+2.9 percent), reaching a peak of 70,200 in June, July, and December, driven by robust Permian production despite market pressures. Support Activities employment recorded a net loss of 2,100 jobs (-1.6 percent), with a February–May surge (+2,800) partially offset by mid-year declines (-3,400 in June–July) and subsequent volatility, reflecting rig count reductions and service sector adjustments. Combined, the sectors ended essentially flat, with a net change of -100 jobs (-0.05 percent), reaching 203,400 by December and underscoring the industry’s critical yet volatile role in sustaining Texas’ energy workforce.
TIPRO’s workforce data continues to indicate strong job postings for the Texas oil and natural gas industry in December, but analysis revealed a continued decline in Q4 driven by lower oil prices, industry consolidation and ongoing efficiency gains, which allow companies to maintain or increase production with reduced hiring activity. According to the association, there were 7,887 unique industry job postings in Texas during the month of December compared to 8,619 in November, and 2,957 new job postings added during the month. In comparison, the state of Pennsylvania had 2,839 unique job postings in December, followed by California 2,400, Ohio 2,050, and Illinois 1,985. TIPRO reported a total of 54,284 unique job postings nationwide during the month of December within the oil and natural gas industry, including 20,251 new postings.
Among the 19 specific industry sectors TIPRO uses to define the Texas oil and natural gas industry, Support Activities for Oil and Gas Operations led in the ranking for unique job listings in December with 1,780 postings, followed by Gasoline Stations with Convenience Stores (1,559), Petroleum Refineries (660) and Crude Petroleum Extraction (536). The leading four cities by total unique oil and natural gas job postings were Houston (1,911), Midland (533), Dallas (329) and Odessa (279), said TIPRO.
The top four companies ranked by unique job postings in December were Love’s (670), Energy Transfer (281), ExxonMobil (280) and Baker Hughes (193), according to the association. Of the top ten companies listed by unique job postings in December, four companies were in the services sector, three in the gasoline stations with convenience stores category, two midstream companies and one fully integrated oil and natural gas company. Top posted industry occupations for December included maintenance and repair workers general (299), heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers (291), and retail salespersons (279).
Top qualifications for unique job postings in December included valid driver’s license (1,434), commercial driver’s license (CDL) (224) and tanker endorsement (139). TIPRO reports that 38 percent of unique job postings had no education requirement listed, 34 percent required a bachelor’s degree and 29 percent required a high school diploma or GED. There were 1,952 advertised salary observations (25 percent of the 7,887 matching postings) with a median salary of $52,100. The highest percentage of advertised salaries (32 percent) were in the $75,000 to $500,000 range.
Additional TIPRO workforce trends data:
A list of unique job postings by state in December can be viewed here.
A sample of industry job postings in Texas for December can be viewed here.
Even though the industry’s tax impact has declined slightly in more recent months as a result of shifting market conditions and falling oil prices, TIPRO adds, tax contributions by the state’s oil and natural gas industry still are significant and continue to provide funding for important state services and programs that include public education, road and highway construction, first responders and much more. According to recent data from the Texas comptroller’s office, in December, Texas energy producers paid $394 million in state oil production taxes. Notably, Texas producers also in December paid $169 million in additional state natural gas production taxes.
Moreover, in Q4 of 2025, the U.S. oil and natural gas sector demonstrated strong operational resilience, achieving record production levels that reinforced America’s position as the world’s leading energy supplier. West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude oil averaged approximately $59.65 per barrel during the quarter, contributing to a full-year average near $65 per barrel. Domestic operators drove annual crude production to a historic high of 13.6 million barrels per day, led by continued efficiency gains in the Permian Basin despite a declining rig count. Prices faced persistent downward pressure from abundant global supply and moderated demand growth.
Texas producers played a pivotal role in 2025, contributing approximately 42–43 percent of U.S. crude oil production at an average of around 5.8 million barrels per day (with monthly peaks reaching 5.9 million barrels per day), underscoring the state’s unmatched leadership amid persistent market headwinds. Natural gas markets showed a meaningful rebound late in the quarter, with Henry Hub prices averaging about $3.52 per million British thermal units for the year, a 56 percent increase from 2024 lows, driven by seasonal heating demand and proactive supply management that helped meet winter needs effectively. Texas natural gas production reached record levels, estimated at nearly 13.6 trillion cubic feet annually, underscoring the state’s critical supply contributions.
Several factors shaped these market dynamics. Record U.S. production and OPEC+ output increases created a well-supplied global market, while demand growth slowed to around 850,000 barrels per day due to economic normalization, trade uncertainties and softer consumption in key regions. Geopolitical conditions provided little upward support, and seasonal inventory builds added temporary downward pressure on WTI. For natural gas, winter weather preparations and demand surges offered significant relief, though abundant supply growth limited the magnitude and duration of price gains.
Early indicators for Q1 2026 show continued challenges for domestic producers. WTI crude oil hovered around $60 per barrel through much of January amid persistent global surplus conditions but has risen sharply in recent days to around $64–$65 due to heightened geopolitical tensions involving Iran and associated supply disruption concerns. U.S. oil production remains near 13.6 million barrels per day but is showing early signs of a near-term plateau, with modest declines anticipated as operators maintain disciplined capital allocation in response to lower price realizations and margin compression.
Natural gas prices moderated below $3.50 per million British thermal units following a Q4 2025 rally, though extreme cold associated with Winter Storm Fern drove sharp, short-term spikes at Henry Hub in late January 2026. Looking ahead, Q1 2026 is expected to feature a slight softening, with Henry Hub averaging around $3.40 per million British thermal units amid assumptions of milder weather and supply that remains well-aligned with demand. For the full year 2026, the annual average is projected to stay near $3.50 per million British thermal units, essentially flat with 2025 levels, as production growth largely matches moderate demand increases. Although colder-than-normal weather and events like Winter Storm Fern have delivered short-term price relief through elevated demand, the longer-term outlook is strengthening, with increased electricity consumption from data centers and rising LNG exports expected to support higher utilization and more durable demand growth beyond weather-related fluctuations.
The following statement can be attributed to Ed Longanecker, president of TIPRO:
“Texas producers have once again proven their ability to deliver essential energy reliably even under sustained market pressure. As the cornerstone of U.S. production, Texas continues to lead through innovation, cost discipline and a steadfast focus on operational excellence. The current environment demands careful resource management and realistic expectations. Federal policies that prioritize domestic energy expansion, expedite permitting and eliminate unnecessary regulatory obstacles will be critical to maintaining investment momentum, protecting jobs and ensuring affordable energy for American families and businesses. TIPRO is dedicated to advancing those priorities on behalf of our members and the state.”
Information source: Texas Independent Producers and Royalty Owners Association (TIPRO)
he Hidalgo County Public Health Laboratory is now offering affordable laboratory testing services, making essential health screenings more accessible to the community. Image for illustration purposes
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EDINBURG, Texas – The Hidalgo County Public Health Laboratory is now offering affordable laboratory testing services, making essential health screenings more accessible to the community.
Beginning February 2, 2026, the Public Health Laboratory will offer a range of affordable screening and testing services, with plans to expand the testing menu based on public needs, including:
Wellness Screens
Basic Diabetes Screens
Complete Diabetes Screens
Thyroid Screens
Respiratory Panels
Complete Blood Count (CBC)
Lipid (Cholesterol) Screens
Hemoglobin A1C
Complete Metabolic Panels (CMP)
Urinalysis
Pregnancy Testing (HCG, Urine)
COVID PCR Testing
COVID/Flu Antigen Testing
Strep A PCR Testing
These services are especially helpful for individuals paying out of pocket, including those without health insurance, by offering a lower-cost option for routine laboratory screenings. They can help detect conditions such as diabetes, high cholesterol, and thyroid disorders early and allow people to seek appropriate follow-up care with their primary care provider.
“Routine laboratory screenings play an important role in preventive care,” said Dairen Sarmiento Rangel, Director of the Hidalgo County Health & Human Services Department. “By the county offering testing at more affordable rates, more people can get the information they need earlier and make informed decisions about their health.”
courtesy image
“As a CAP-accredited public health laboratory, we already have the systems and staff in place to perform these tests,” said Dr. Martha Luna, Medical Laboratory Director of the Hidalgo County Public Health Laboratory. “Expanding these services allows us to use our existing capabilities to provide reliable testing to more people in Hidalgo County.”
Appointments are now available. The public may contact the Hidalgo County Public Health Laboratory to schedule a laboratory screening or learn more about available services. All laboratory testing services are offered at low cost, with pricing starting as low as $10. Appointments can be scheduled by calling (956) 292-7765 during regular county business hours. Additional information is available at www.hchd.org/laboratory.
For the first time in its 20-year history, Navy Week made its way to the Rio Grande Valley with South Texas College serving as host for a historic celebration honoring service, sacrifice and community partnership. STC Navy Rear Admiral David J. Faehnle, commandant from Naval District Washington as well as a performance from the U.S. Navy Southeast Brass Band. STC image
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By Joey Gomez
McALLEN, Texas – For the first time in its 20-year history, Navy Week made its way to the Rio Grande Valley with South Texas College serving as host for a historic celebration honoring service, sacrifice and community partnership.
Held recently at STC’s Cooper Center for Performing Arts, the event featured remarks from college leadership along with a visit from Navy Rear Admiral David J. Faehnle, commandant from Naval District Washington as well as a performance from the U.S. Navy Southeast Brass Band.
US Navy Band performs at STC in McAllen. STC image
The event was part of a weeklong series of outreach efforts across the entire Rio Grande Valley that brought more than 70 sailors to the region.
“It’s such an honor to be part of Navy Week and to celebrate the importance of the United States Navy,” said STC President Ricardo J. Solis, Ph.D., in his address to visitors. Solis welcome attendees by highlighting the college’s role as one of the largest institutions of higher education in south Texas, serving more than 40,000 students annually across six campuses.
Solis also noted that as a Gold Military Friendly and Military Spouse Friendly institution, STC serves more than 800 veterans, active-duty service members and dependents through its Office of Student Veterans Affairs.
“The Navy not only protects our nation, but it supports commerce, humanitarian aid and global stability,” Solis said. “We are proud to stand in partnership.”
STC’s Cooper Center was a fitting venue for the Navy celebration. The facility is named in honor of Edinburg native U.S. Navy Lt. Edward “Ned” Pillow Cooper, and commemorates the Vietnam-era navigator who was killed in 1971 when his aircraft crashed shortly after takeoff in the Philippines.
Decades later, his mother Edwynne Cooper, made a significant gift to STC to ensure her son’s legacy would inspire future generations.
“When the U.S. Navy reached out to collaborate on Navy Week, we could think of no better venue than the Cooper Center,” said Javier Cardenas, STC Veterans Affairs certifying official. “This space represents service, sacrifice and a deep connection between the Nay and our community.”
U.S. Navy Capt. (Ret.) Mery-Angela Katson, director of Training and Education Requirements for the Chief of Naval Personnel, emphasized the Navy’s deep ties to Texas and its future-focused mission.
“Over 40,000 sailors in our Navy today come from the state of Texas,” Katson said. “As we celebrate 250 years of service, we are modernizing our fleet, embracing new technology and investing in the future – we cannot do that alone. It takes partners like South Texas College and communities like the Rio Grande Valley.”
Katson highlighted the Navy’s role in safeguarding global commerce, noting that 90% of trade travels by sea and encouraged students to explore opportunities in both uniformed and civilian service.
As the brass band’s final notes echoed through the Cooper Center, the event served as both a tribute to the past and a bridge to the future.
For STC’s Music students, the performance offered more than entertainment. The event honored local sacrifice while inspiring a new generation to serve.
“It was just an amazing performance,” said STC Music Department Chair Daniel Cather, D.M.E. “Many students don’t realize that they can audition for professional military ensembles and travel while serving. It opens their eyes to possibilities they may have not considered.”
“Border security and immigration are serious issues, and they deserve real, long-term solutions. Physical barriers like razor wire do not address the root of the problem.” — Judge Richard Cortez. Image for illustration purposes
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EDINBURG – Hidalgo County Judge Richard F. Cortez has issued the following statement regarding the recent installation of razor wire in Hidalgo County:
“Border security and immigration are serious issues, and they deserve real, long-term solutions. Physical barriers like razor wire do not address the root of the problem. Fences and wire may send a message, but they do not fix a broken system. Right now, we have a system that focuses almost entirely on keeping people out, instead of creating realistic and humane ways for people to come into this country legally.
Here in Hidalgo County, residents want safety, stability, and clear solutions, not temporary measures that may also harm our environment. Actions like this create concern and confusion in local communities, especially when they happen without local input. These installations change the feel of public spaces and can create anxiety for families who are simply going about their daily lives.
Hidalgo County residents deserve policies that improve safety while respecting people and the rule of law. The only way to truly address illegal immigration is by changing the laws. That means state and federal leaders must work together on solutions that improve public safety while also respecting human rights and offering legal options for migration.
This is not about whether the county wants more enforcement. It’s about building a system that works for everyone involved, including residents who want safe streets, effective public services, and government attention to real problems, not symbolic responses.
Until lawmakers change the laws, local border communities will continue to feel the effects of a system that is not working. Real solutions come from policy, not from razor wire.”
Advisory Boards play an essential role in supporting City operations, enhancing public services, and providing thoughtful input on planning, development, and quality-of-life initiatives. Courtesy images
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McALLEN, Texas – The City of McAllen invites residents who are passionate about their community to take an active role in shaping the future of the city by serving on an Advisory Board. This opportunity allows residents to share their perspective, contribute their expertise, and help guide decisions that impact McAllen today and, in the years ahead.
Advisory Boards play an essential role in supporting City operations, enhancing public services, and providing thoughtful input on planning, development, and quality-of-life initiatives. Board members work alongside City staff and elected officials to offer recommendations, collaborate on initiatives, and ensure resident voices are represented in City decision-making.
Employers increasingly look to up-and-coming leaders to participate in civic organizations as part of their professional growth, recognizing this involvement to develop leadership skills while giving back to and strengthening the community. In addition to serving, advisory board members gain valuable experience in civic leadership, collaboration, and public service while helping address local priorities and contribute to meaningful solutions.
Requirements include:
1. Applicants must be residents of the City of McAllen.
2. Applicants must be qualified voters.
3. Board members are expected to attend all scheduled board meetings.
Available Boards
• Airport Advisory Board
• Building Board of Adjustments and Appeals
• Civic Center Advisory Board
• Community Development
• Disability Board
• Golf Course Advisory Board
• Historic Preservation Center
• McAllen Housing Finance Corporation
• McAllen Library Board
• Parks & Recreation Board
• Senior Citizens’ Center Board
• Traffic Commission
• Keep McAllen Beautiful
Committee appointments are made by the McAllen City Commission in accordance with established terms. Residents interested in helping shape the future of the city are encouraged to submit an application. For eligibility requirements, application details, and additional information, visit Board Application
