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Abbott Seeks Elimination of Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) Ability to Operate in Texas

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Abbott Seeks Elimination of Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) Ability to Operate in Texas
Governor Greg Abbott  demanded the Office of the Attorney General use the authority of that office to strip the nonprofit status of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) and eliminate the ability of CAIR and its affiliates to operate in Texas. Image for illustration purposes
Governor Greg Abbott  demanded the Office of the Attorney General use the authority of that office to strip the nonprofit status of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) and eliminate the ability of CAIR and its affiliates to operate in Texas. Image for illustration purposes

Texas Border Business

AUSTIN — Governor Greg Abbott  demanded the Office of the Attorney General use the authority of that office to strip the nonprofit status of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) and eliminate the ability of CAIR and its affiliates to operate in Texas.

“Voluminous documents detail the dangers posed to Texans by the Muslim Brotherhood, CAIR, and their affiliates,” said Governor Abbott. “Regardless of the façade CAIR attempts to portray in press releases, CAIR cannot be allowed to use its ‘nonprofit’ status as a shield for sponsoring terror, advancing radical Islamism in Texas, or fronting for the Muslim Brotherhood. The same goes for other entities pretending to engage in charity by day, while sponsoring terror by night. Under Texas law, ‘the Texas Attorney General is the only elected official charged with regulating’ nonprofits that may be violating the law, including by examining their records and stripping their corporate charters. You have used these tools before; I urge you to use them now to combat CAIR.”

Governor Abbott continues to take action to uphold the rule of law and defend Texas communities from threats posed by the Muslim Brotherhood and CAIR, including:

  • Calling on CFISD to sever ties with CAIR-sponsored Islamic games
  • Requesting that U.S. Secretary Bessent suspend CAIR’s tax-exempt status
  • Directing DPS to launch criminal investigations into the Muslim Brotherhood and CAIR
  • Designating the Muslim Brotherhood and CAIR as foreign terrorist organizations
  • Ordering investigations into Sharia Courts

Read the Governor’s letter here or below:

Prices, Investment Pullbacks Signal a Pause in U.S. Oil Growth

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Prices, Investment Pullbacks Signal a Pause in U.S. Oil Growth
While still near 2025’s record level of 13.6 million barrels per day (b/d), it’s a notable shift from the expansionary pattern of the past few years. For 2027, a slight decrease is expected. Image for illustration purposes
While still near 2025’s record level of 13.6 million barrels per day (b/d), it’s a notable shift from the expansionary pattern of the past few years. For 2027, a slight decrease is expected. Image for illustration purposes

Texas Border Business

Dr. M. Ray Perryman, President and Chief Executive Officer of The Perryman Group. Courtesy Image

The US Energy Information Administration (EIA) recently released projections indicating little or no growth in US oil production for 2026. While still near 2025’s record level of 13.6 million barrels per day (b/d), it’s a notable shift from the expansionary pattern of the past few years. For 2027, a slight decrease is expected. The Permian Basin, Alaska, and offshore production in the Gulf may increase slightly, but these gains are projected to be offset by decreases in other areas. 

The issue is certainly not available supply. There are billions of barrels of oil and trillions of cubic feet of gas in the ground, with much more yet to be found. The EIA estimated, as of 2023, that there were some 21 billion barrels of oil in the Permian Basin alone, just counting “proved” reserves. In addition, only a fraction is produced using current methods, and future technological advances will ultimately generate greater yields. 

New wells coming online (including completing ones that are drilled, but not yet producing) is essential to increasing total production, as decline curves (the falloff in output from a well over time) can be fairly steep. Rig counts in Texas are about 229, down from 277 a year ago. A survey by the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas found that 39% of oil and gas executives expected capital spending to decrease in 2026, with many of those anticipating significant forbearance. Another 24% expect to maintain current levels, with 37% seeing increases. 

The essential issue is simply the fact that the current price level is not incentivizing as much activity as in the past. Survey data from the Dallas Fed indicates that oil prices needed to profitably drill a new well in the Midland or Delaware areas of the Permian Basin or the Eagle Ford average about $61-$62 per barrel, with higher requirements in other areas. It can take $45 per barrel just to cover costs for existing wells. The EIA is projecting oil prices to fall from a 2025 average of $65 per barrel to $52 or less in 2026.

Keep in mind, however, that this sector is highly volatile and impacted by myriad global factors. As a result, things can quickly and unexpectedly change. Just a few years ago, prices exceeded $120 per barrel. We could see significant increases if tensions in the Middle East escalate, OPEC+ cuts supply, or uncertainty in the global economy decreases sufficiently to spur faster economic growth. Once we are past the recent spate of adverse conditions, expanding populations, emerging economies, and rapid adoption of energy-intensive technologies will require substantial additional resources, and forecasts indicate that the need for conventional fuels will increase for decades to come. Stay safe!

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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.

PSJA Memorial Senior Among Select Few Named Semifinalist for Prestigious Scholarship

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PSJA Memorial Senior Among Select Few Named Semifinalist for Prestigious Scholarship
PSJA Memorial Early College High School (ECHS) senior, Dominick Gomez Gonzalez, has been named a Jack Kent Cooke College Scholarship Semifinalist, one of the most prestigious honors awarded to high-achieving high school students nationwide. Images courtesy of PSJA ISD
PSJA Memorial Early College High School (ECHS) senior, Dominick Gomez Gonzalez, has been named a Jack Kent Cooke College Scholarship Semifinalist, one of the most prestigious honors awarded to high-achieving high school students nationwide. Images courtesy of PSJA ISD

Texas Border Business

ALAMO, Texas – PSJA Memorial Early College High School (ECHS) senior, Dominick Gomez Gonzalez, has been named a Jack Kent Cooke College Scholarship Semifinalist, one of the most prestigious honors awarded to high-achieving high school students nationwide. 

The Jack Kent Cooke Scholarship is a highly selective national undergraduate scholarship that provides high-achieving, talented students with the opportunity to graduate with as little debt as possible. The award can provide up to $55,000 per year, along with comprehensive college planning support, ongoing advising, and access to the Cooke Scholarship network. 
 
This year, the Cooke Foundation received more than 6,500 applications from students across the country. Only 568 students nationwide were named semifinalist, of those; just three students were selected from the Rio Grande Valley, making Dominick the only semifinalist from PSJA ISD. 
 
“It’s a surreal feeling knowing I’m a few steps away from walking out with such a prestigious scholarship, not only would it liberate my family from financial stress but open many doors for me,” said Dominick Gonzalez. “I will continue to strive towards a future worthy of all the sacrifices that have carried me this far.” 
 
The Jack Kent Cooke Foundation selects a semifinalist based on exceptional academic ability, leadership, persistence, and service to others. Semifinalist will now advance in the selection process, with final scholarship recipients to be announced in the Spring. 

STC Automotive Student Turns Ambition Into Purpose

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STC Automotive Student Turns Ambition Into Purpose

Texas Border Business

By Amanda Sotelo

Growing up around cars and everything automotive, Alejandro Morin Treviño decided his career path early on, and after high school, he chose South Texas College for its affordability, accessibility and hands-on training.

Growing up in Rio Grande City, proximity to his family was a priority, so when he heard Automotive Technology was available at STC’s Starr County Campus and its facilities had undergone an expansion, it became the place he would study to learn his passion and honor his late uncle.

“Growing up I saw my dad and my “tios,” working on cars, diesel equipment and make a living out of it,” said the 19-year-old. “I learned a lot from all of them, but it was one uncle who told me I could have future in this. Unfortunately, he passed away and could not see me realize his vision, so this is in honor of him.”

Morin plans to complete his certificate in Automotive Technology in May and says he has already learned a lot and feels confident that he can enter the workforce before even earning his associate degree.

“I came in only knowing how to change a tire or change the oil, but since starting this program, my knowledge and my skills have grown,” said Morin. “I can now do work beyond my initial skills. I even know how to diagnose and troubleshoot now.”

Taking his new skills and newfound confidence, Morin is already applying at local automotive shops and car dealers, hoping to kickstart his career sooner rather than later.

“As soon as I earn my certificate I can begin working,” he said. “I’m applying everywhere, but I really hope that Rio Motor Company in my hometown gives me a chance. I want to prove that I belong there and can do good work for them. It would be a dream come true.”

To practice skills outside of the classroom, Morin is currently remodeling and refurbishing an older model Volkswagen Bug and a 1975 Ford truck.

“After I get home from class, I stay outside and work on my vehicles. The goal is to get them running again,” said Morin.

Morin was raised in a close-knit family, currently living with some nieces and nephews, whom he looks forward to being able to support once he enters the workforce.

“Not only is automotive my passion, but I also want to be able to help support my family,” he said. “My college education will allow me to do that, which will be a game changer for my family and me.”

Morin said he encourages others to also follow their passion and find their way to STC.

“STC is where dreams can come true,” he said. “I want to encourage others to not let their doubts or fears get in their way. Their life will change with a college education. Times are tough, prices keep rising, and it is an education that will allow us to thrive beyond anyone’s beliefs.”

For more information on STC’s Automotive Technology program, visit southtexascollege.edu.

WATCH: Is Bilingualism a Superpower?

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WATCH: Is Bilingualism a Superpower?
Image for illustration purposes

There was a time when psychologists thought growing up bilingual was harmful to brain development, but recent studies into bilingual children have turned that idea on its head!

Source: Storied

WATCH: NASA’s Plan to Return to the Moon

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WATCH: NASA’s Plan to Return to the Moon
Image for illustration purposes

NASA is sending humans to the lunar neighborhood for the first time in more than half a century. It’s a pivotal moment for the space agency’s Artemis program, whose next step is to send astronauts back to the moon itself. Called Artemis II, this mission will send a crew of four on a lunar flyby, testing out the spacecraft that will eventually be used to help land humans on the surface.

Source: Bloomberg Television

WATCH: How to be a Better Friend, According to Science

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WATCH: How to be a Better Friend, According to Science
Image for illustration purposes

Friendships can change how we see and move through the world. They can boost our academic performance, help us deal with setbacks, and even improve our health. And the relationships we form in adolescence can shape our beliefs, values, and emotional growth. But making and maintaining friends isn’t always easy.

Source: TED-Ed

OpEd: Texas Expands Its Leadership in Strengthening America’s Semiconductor Future

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OpEd: Texas Expands Its Leadership in Strengthening America’s Semiconductor Future
In the past weeks, Governor Greg Abbott has announced two major grant awards through the Texas Semiconductor Innovation Fund (TSIF), further extending Texas’ leadership in fortifying America’s semiconductor supply chain that is more critical than ever to our economic and national security. Image for illustration purposes
In the past weeks, Governor Greg Abbott has announced two major grant awards through the Texas Semiconductor Innovation Fund (TSIF), further extending Texas’ leadership in fortifying America’s semiconductor supply chain that is more critical than ever to our economic and national security. Image for illustration purposes

Texas Border Business

Megan Mauro, Interim President & CEO, Texas Association of Business. Image: LinkedIN

By Megan Mauro, Interim President & CEO, Texas Association of Business

In the past weeks, Governor Greg Abbott has announced two major grant awards through the Texas Semiconductor Innovation Fund (TSIF), further extending Texas’ leadership in fortifying America’s semiconductor supply chain that is more critical than ever to our economic and national security.

Round Rock-based Tekscend Photomask received a $15.2 million TSIF grant award to help expand the company’s manufacturing capacity for essential components in semiconductor production, creating 50 high-skilled jobs and supporting more than $223 million in new capital investment. This week, Governor Abbott announced another $12 million TSIF grant to Texas Tech University for a new nanotechnology laboratory cleanroom facility in Lubbock’s Semiconductor Nanofabrication Center, advancing critical semiconductor research and workforce development opportunities to help Texas meet the needs of this ever-growing industry.

The TSIF, established through the Texas CHIPS Act in 2023 and administered by the Governor’s Texas CHIPS Office, has become a centerpiece of this leadership. To date, the Office has announced TSIF grants for 17 different projects creating more than 700 jobs and representing nearly $6 billion in capital investment that directly benefits nearly every single industry in our state – from consumer electronics to health care devices, automobile manufacturing, energy, and defense.

Governor Abbott rightly pointed out that “Texas is where the integrated circuit began and where the future of the semiconductor industry is being built.”

While Texas’ long legacy of producing revolutionary microchips goes back to Texas Instruments (TI) in 1958, our state’s game-changing policy leadership in re-orienting the global semiconductor supply chain back toward the U.S. has only just begun.

TSIF-supported projects span cutting-edge semiconductor manufacturing facilities, research and development hubs, critical supply chain components, and workforce development programs – all of which are essential in maintaining our state’s dominance in semiconductor production.

Policy decisions that support semiconductor expansion must extend beyond infrastructure and capital investment to develop the workforce required to operate and scale these facilities. For that reason, the Texas Association of Business (TAB) continues to advocate for policies that protect and expand advanced manufacturing in Texas while ensuring research, development, and workforce pipelines keep pace with rapid innovation.

TAB has prioritized work across the state, in partnership with local chambers and community colleges, to identify gaps in technical and applied training, align education and workforce programs with industry demand, and advance policies that prepare Texans for high-paying, career-advancing jobs that support the long-term growth of the semiconductor and high technology manufacturing ecosystem.

As the top state for semiconductor exports for more than 14 years, Texas has raised the bar for other states to support the nationwide effort to strengthen our domestic chip manufacturing capacity. This forward-thinking approach ensures Texas will continue to have an interconnected ecosystem for semiconductor production that maintains and enhances the competitive edge of our state and every business that calls it home.

  – Megan Mauro, Interim President & CEO, Texas Association of Business

Edinburg Memorial Park Upgrades On The Way Thanks to $347K TPWD Grant

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Edinburg Memorial Park Upgrades On The Way Thanks to $347K TPWD Grant
The total project cost is $695,854 and is funded through a $347,927 TPWD grant, matched by an equal $347,927 local contribution from the City of Edinburg. Image courtesy of The City of Edinburg
The total project cost is $695,854 and is funded through a $347,927 TPWD grant, matched by an equal $347,927 local contribution from the City of Edinburg. Image courtesy of The City of Edinburg

Texas Border Business

EDINBURG, Texas – The City of Edinburg is proud to announce that the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) has approved funding for the Memorial Park Improvements Project through the FY 2026 Local Parks Grant Program. The grant was officially approved following action by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission, securing a major investment in the future of Edinburg’s parks and recreational amenities.

With funding now in place, the Memorial Park Improvements Project will move forward to deliver new, modern, and inclusive recreational facilities designed to serve residents of all ages and abilities. Planned enhancements include two new back-to-back versatile tennis courts with pickleball functionality, along with the construction of an all-inclusive basketball play court in “Bankshot” style. This basketball court will be the first of its kind in Edinburg and will feature shade structures and multisensory design elements that support accessible and inclusive play.

Additional planned upgrades include ADA-compliant sidewalks, benches, native landscaping, and solar lighting, all aimed at improving safety, sustainability, and overall usability throughout the park.

The total project cost is $695,854 and is funded through a $347,927 TPWD grant, matched by an equal $347,927 local contribution from the City of Edinburg.

“This project reflects our ongoing commitment to invest in high-quality, inclusive public spaces that promote health, wellness, and community connection,” said Mayor Omar Ochoa. “We are grateful to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department for their partnership and support, which allows us to secure the resources needed to deliver meaningful park improvements for our residents.”

Memorial Park is located at 1212 E. Sprague Street. With grant funding secured, the City will proceed with TPWD’s next steps, including project coordination, planning, and implementation. Construction details and updates will be shared with the public as the project moves forward.

Information Source: The City of Edinburg

Paxton Sues Out‑of‑State Provider Accused of Sending Abortion Pills Into Texas

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Paxton Sues Out‑of‑State Provider Accused of Sending Abortion Pills Into Texas
In direct violation of Texas law, Her Safe Harbor routinely sends mifepristone and misoprostol to women across state lines. The organization advertises abortion pills by mail and promises delivery to Texas within days. Image for illustration purposes
In direct violation of Texas law, Her Safe Harbor routinely sends mifepristone and misoprostol to women across state lines. The organization advertises abortion pills by mail and promises delivery to Texas within days. Image for illustration purposes

Texas Border Business

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton. Image: X

AUSTIN – Attorney General Ken Paxton has filed a lawsuit against Debra Lynch, a Delaware-based nurse practitioner, who operates an extremist group known as Her Safe Harbor that ships abortion drugs into Texas.  

In direct violation of Texas law, Her Safe Harbor routinely sends mifepristone and misoprostol to women across state lines. The organization advertises abortion pills by mail and promises delivery to Texas within days. The lawsuit references a quote from Lynch in which she acknowledges that she and her staff “mail a lot [of abortion drugs] to Texas,” including Beaumont, Fulshear, Tomball, Houston, El Paso, and other major cities that she alludes to. 

This lawsuit follows two tragic cases in Texas in which radical abortion activists and organizations facilitated men illegally purchasing abortion-inducing drugs. According to one lawsuit, a man used the drugs to secretly poison his girlfriend, causing the death of their unborn child, and sending the mother to the hospital. 

“The day of reckoning for this radical out-of-state abortion drug trafficker is here,” said Attorney General Paxton. “No one, regardless of where they live, will be freely allowed to aid in the murder of unborn children in Texas.” 

In addition to this lawsuit, Attorney General Paxton has taken legal action against two other abortion drug providers, Plan C and Coeytaux, ordering them to immediately cease promoting, selling, or facilitating the shipment of abortion drugs to Texas residents. 

To read the lawsuit, click here. 

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