The improvements will include two back-to-back versatile tennis courts with pickleball functionality, an inclusive Bankshot-style basketball play court with shade structures, ADA-compliant sidewalks, benches, native landscaping, and solar lighting. Image for illustration purposes
Texas Border Business
AUSTIN, Texas — The Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission approved recommended awards under the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) Local Park Grants program. This program provides matching support to help communities develop and enhance public outdoor recreation areas across Texas. The City of Edinburg was selected to receive $347,927 for the Memorial Park Improvements Project.
Senator Juan ‘Chuy’ Hinojosa
The grant will support a package of quality-of-life improvements that expand recreation options and improve access for residents of all ages and abilities. The improvements will include two back-to-back versatile tennis courts with pickleball functionality, an inclusive Bankshot-style basketball play court with shade structures, ADA-compliant sidewalks, benches, native landscaping, and solar lighting.
The City of Edinburg estimates the project will take approximately three years to complete and has indicated the total project cost is $695,854. Memorial Park is a longstanding community park in Edinburg, located near S. Expressway 281 and E. Sprague Street, and currently includes facilities such as baseball fields and reservable pavilion space for community use.
State Senator Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa expressed his support for this funding, stating, “As the Vice Chair of the Senate Finance Committee, I am a strong supporter and advocate for state funding to allow TPWD to provide local park grants. Our local parks offer many benefits that promote outdoor activities, bring the community together, and improve the quality of life for our residents. I appreciate the Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission and staff for approving this grant, and I commend the leadership and staff of the City of Edinburg for submitting a strong application to secure this grant for Memorial Park.”
Dr. Mónica Genoveva Mendoza Jáquez. Image Texas Border Business
Texas Border Business
Texas Border Business
The Automotive Cluster of Aguascalientes (GIRAA) conducted its first official trade mission to Rio South Texas Region on January 20-21, 2026, strengthening cross-border collaboration in automotive, aerospace, logistics, and manufacturing. The visit, coordinated with COSTEP, the Council for South Texas Economic Progress, included meetings in Brownsville and McAllen with economic development organizations, port officials, and industry leaders.
Dr. Mónica Genoveva Mendoza Jáquez, president of the Automotive Cluster of Aguascalientes (GIRAA), presents the region’s industrial strengths alongside participating manufacturing companies during the delegation’s visit with COSTEP in McAllen and Brownsville, highlighting opportunities for cross-border collaboration in automotive, logistics, and advanced manufacturing. Image Texas Border Business
The delegation was led by Dr. Mónica Genoveva Mendoza Jáquez, president of GIRAA (Grupos Industriales del Ramo Automotriz de Aguascalientes), who described the visit as part of a long-term effort to build international partnerships while strengthening local industry.
“This is our first trade mission,” Dr. Mendoza said. “We came to understand the landscape and build relationships, because we have many things in common.”
The group included representatives from founding member companies, including Mechanical 4.0, SIGUM Herramientas, Solinda Tools and Devices, and Spaceport MX. The visit focused on investment opportunities, infrastructure, and collaboration in manufacturing, logistics, and workforce development.
GIRAA — Grupos Industriales del Ramo Automotriz de Aguascalientes— was established 13 years ago to improve competitiveness and coordination among automotive suppliers. Mendoza said the cluster helped introduce the dual education model in Aguascalientes, combining classroom instruction with hands-on industry training. What began with a small group of students is now implemented across universities statewide.
During the visit, the delegation toured the Port of Brownsville and met with regional development organizations to learn more about logistics, industrial operations, and trade opportunities. A Memorandum of Understanding was signed in McAllen, along with discussions on foreign trade zones and regional industry trends.
Dr. Mendoza emphasized that GIRAA functions as a specialized cluster rather than a traditional business association. “We work directly with companies that supply automakers and tier suppliers,” she said. “We are focused and highly specialized.”
She added that the cluster works closely with the government of Aguascalientes, including state economic development agencies, to attract investment and support companies establishing operations in the region.
The visit also highlighted how global supply chains are evolving. Mendoza noted that recent disruptions have accelerated the adoption of industry 4.0 technologies, highlighting the importance of adaptability and local capabilities.
Workforce development remains a top priority for GIRAA. Mendoza stressed the importance of preparing young professionals in engineering, automation, and emerging technologies, as well as strengthening ties between industry and academic institutions.
She said the results of the Texas visit will be shared with educational leaders and technical institutions in Mexico to better align training with industry needs.
In closing, Mendoza emphasized the value of long-term cooperation between Mexico and the United States, with thanks to COSTEP, and Adam Gonzalez, chief executive officer.
“Opportunities don’t come to you– you have to go find them,” she said. “This is about building bridges and creating lasting partnerships on both sides of the border.”
The City of Edinburg will serve as a host city for the Rio Grande Valley Navy Week, scheduled for January 24–31, as the United States Navy brings more than 70 Sailors to the region for a week of public performances, educational outreach, and community service. Courtesy image
Texas Border Business
The City of Edinburg will serve as a host city for the Rio Grande Valley Navy Week, scheduled for January 24–31, as the United States Navy brings more than 70 Sailors to the region for a week of public performances, educational outreach, and community service.
Courtesy image
Navy Week is a national outreach program designed to connect communities without a major naval presence to the Navy’s mission and personnel. Throughout the week, Edinburg will host several signature ceremonies and performances honoring military service and local heritage. Additional Navy Week events will take place across the Rio Grande Valley, including Mission, McAllen, and Brownsville.
A highlight of Navy Week in Edinburg includes participation by Sailors from the USS Gonzalez (DDG 66), named in honor of Medal of Honor recipient and Edinburg native Sgt. Alfredo “Freddie” Gonzalez. Sailors will take part in memorial events recognizing Sgt. Gonzalez and his family, underscoring the city’s longstanding ties to naval service and military history.
Courtesy image
Edinburg-hosted Navy Week events include:
Wreath Laying Ceremony Petty Officer Jose Saenz Memorial Light Post January 26 at 1:00 p.m.
Navy Week Proclamation and Bienvenida Edinburg Arts, Culture, and Events (ACE) Center January 26 at 6:00 p.m.
Navy Band and Ceremonial Guard Performance Edinburg Municipal Auditorium January 27 at 6:00 p.m.
STEM Activities and Book Reading Dustin Michael Sekula Memorial Library January 29 at 6:00 p.m.
Courtesy image
As Navy Week launches the Navy’s 2026 national outreach schedule and coincides with the nationwide “Road to 250” initiative leading up to the United States’ 250th anniversary, the City of Edinburg is honored to help connect the Rio Grande Valley to the Navy’s enduring mission of service, freedom, and national defense.
Representatives from Congresswoman De La Cruz’s team recently participated in the ribbon‑cutting ceremony for the Rio Grande Valley (RGV) Food Bank’s newly completed refrigeration building. Image courtesy of Edinburg Chamber of Commerce, via Office of Rep. De La Cruz
Texas Border Business
Texas Border Business
Representatives from Congresswoman De La Cruz’s team recently participated in the ribbon‑cutting ceremony for the Rio Grande Valley (RGV) Food Bank’s newly completed refrigeration building. The event marked an important milestone in the food bank’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its infrastructure and expand its capacity to serve families across South Texas.
The new refrigeration facility will support the RGV Food Bank’s mission by increasing storage capabilities for perishable goods and improving distribution efficiency. With this expansion, the organization will be able to enhance operations and provide additional resources to households facing food insecurity throughout the region.
The RGV Food Bank continues to be a key community partner, offering critical assistance to residents in need and collaborating with local leaders, organizations, and volunteers to ensure consistent access to nutritious food.
Information source: Office of Congresswoman De LA Cruz
Hosted annually by the Texas Alliance for Life (TAL), the Texas Rally for Life brings together pro-life advocates from across the state to march to the Texas Capitol in support of the fundamental right to life. Photo; Office of The Governor
Texas Border Business
AUSTIN — Governor Greg Abbott delivered remarks at the 2026 Texas Rally for Life on the South Steps of the Texas Capitol in Austin. Hosted annually by the Texas Alliance for Life (TAL), the Texas Rally for Life brings together pro-life advocates from across the state to march to the Texas Capitol in support of the fundamental right to life.
Governor Abbott addressing the crowd in Austin. Photo: Office of The Governor.
“We are united by the truth that our Creator endowed us with the right to life itself,” said Governor Abbott. “There is no freedom more precious than life itself. All of you have been life savers, and thousands of newborn babies are the result of your heroic efforts. Thank you for being a part of the movement that has made Texas the beacon for life in the United States of America.”
During his remarks, Governor Abbott highlighted significant action to protect the sanctity of life that is now law, including: Senate Bill 33 to ban taxpayer dollars from funding abortions; Senate Bill 1388 to ensure Thriving Texas Family Grants are directed to life-affirming organizations; and House Bill 7 to prohibit the manufacturing and distribution of abortion-inducing drugs.
Pro Life supporters at the Texas Rally for Life in Austin. Photo: Office of The Governor
The Governor was joined by Texas Alliance for Life Executive Director Amy O’Donnell, Life Choice Medical Clinic and Care Executive Director James Booker, AvantGarde LLC President and CEO Rebecca Contreras, Diocese of Austin Bishop Daniel E. Garcia, abortion survivor Claire Culwell, Representative Don McLaughlin, Representative Hilary Hickland, and other pro-life faith leaders, advocates, and elected officials.
As Governor and during his tenure as Texas Attorney General, Governor Abbott has advocated for and signed laws to further protect the lives of the innocent unborn and champion the life of the mother. In May 2021, Governor Abbott signed Senate Bill 8 to ensure the life of every unborn child with a heartbeat would be saved from the ravages of abortion and House Bill 1280 that banned abortions in Texas once Roe v. Wade was overturned by the U.S. Supreme Court.
Army Tech. 5th Grade Eric Gibson was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor for his actions during World War II. Image source: U.S. Department of War
Texas Border Business
By Katie Lange, Pentagon News / U.S. Department of War
Army Tech. 5th Grade Eric Gibson served as a cook during World War II, but his desire for more led him to work out a deal with his superiors to fight on the front lines. During one intense battle in Italy, Gibson consistently went ahead of the soldiers he led and took out threats in their path. He didn’t survive the ordeal, but his bravery and leadership earned him the Medal of Honor.
Gibson was born Oct. 3, 1919, in Nysund, Sweden, to Erland and Agda Gibson. In 1924, after his younger brother, Sven, was born, the family moved to Chicago, where Gibson grew up.
Few details of his early life have been published. Still, by February 1941, Gibson had enlisted in the Army as troop numbers soared ahead of America’s inevitable involvement in World War II. After basic training, he was assigned as a cook for the 30th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Infantry Division.
In November 1942, the division deployed to North Africa, where Gibson, as part of Company I, took part in that invasion and the subsequent invasion of Sicily.
As the division plowed through enemy territory, Gibson decided he wanted to make a bigger impact than just being a cook. So, he worked out a deal with his commanding officer that allowed him to serve as a rifleman in an infantry squad whenever the company went into battle, according to the U.S. Army Quartermaster Museum.
In the mountainous terrain of Sicily, where motorized Army vehicles weren’t useful, Gibson is credited with leading a pack of mules carrying supplies across several miles of rugged landscape. Later, as the company’s main scout, he located several enemy positions and even killed and wounded two German soldiers during ensuing firefights.
In mid-January 1944, the division landed on the Anzio beachhead in Italy. As Gibson’s company moved up the coastline, he continued with his dual missions, repeatedly distinguishing himself in combat, according to the museum.
On Jan. 28, 1944, Gibson’s company had made it all the way to northern Italy and was near the island of Isola Bella when they came under attack. Gibson quickly mobilized and led a squad of unseasoned soldiers — those sent to the front lines to fill vacancies left by casualties — through a “baptism by fire,” his Medal of Honor citation stated. But their efforts bore fruit. They managed to destroy four enemy positions, kill five and capture two German soldiers, all while also securing their company’s left flank.
Gibson then continued ahead of his fellow soldiers, moving through a wide stream ditch until he came within 20 yards of a concealed enemy soldier, who opened up on him with automatic fire. Several bullets nearly hit Gibson, but that didn’t stop him. He charged, firing his submachine gun every few steps until he got to the enemy position and fired at point-blank range, killing his opponent.
As a smattering of artillery landed in and around the ditch, the impact from one knocked Gibson flat. As soon as he got to his feet, he was fired on by two enemy soldiers who were about 75 yards away. Gibson immediately raced toward them and didn’t stop, even when machine gun fire opened up on him about halfway to the position. Gibson killed one foe and captured the other.
Shortly after that, during another spray of heavy machine gun fire coming from about 200 yards further down the ditch, Gibson crawled back to his squad and ordered them to direct as much fire as possible toward the enemy so he could flank that machine gun nest.
Getting to the emplacement required Gibson to crawl 125 yards through an intense artillery barrage that included crossfire from two machine guns, which showered dirt all over him. He made it, however, and once he reached the nest, he threw two hand grenades into it before charging forward with his submachine gun, killing two enemy soldiers and capturing a third.
When his squad got to a bend in the ditch, Gibson moved forward alone to scout out the situation. That’s the last time his fellow soldiers saw him alive.
Gibson’s squad later told officials that when they heard an exchange of gunfire, they moved around the bend. About 35 yards toward an enemy outpost, they found Gibson dead. However, before he fell, he managed to kill one more German soldier.
Gibson’s fearless actions kept the men in his squad alive, even if it meant his own death. For that, he was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor. His parents were gifted it on his behalf Sept. 15, 1944, during a ceremony at Camp McCoy, Wisconsin.
When Gibson’s body was returned to the U.S. in 1948, he was buried in Nora Cemetery in Rice Lake, Wisconsin, where his parents had moved while he was overseas.
Gibson has not been forgotten. Over the years, an Army Reserve center in Berwyn, Illinois, and a dining facility on Fort Lee, Virginia, were named in his honor. In 1995, a Navy container ship was renamed for the fallen soldier, and in 1999, Gibson was inducted into the Quartermaster Hall of Fame.
The American Red Cross has steps you can take to prevent your pipes from freezing and ways you can thaw your pipes properly if they freeze. Image for illustration purposes
Texas Border Business
AMERICAN RED CROSS – Across the state, officials are bracing for severe winter weather forecast to impact our area. The American Red Cross has steps you can take to prevent your pipes from freezing and ways you can thaw your pipes properly if they freeze.
How to Protect Pipes from Freezing
Before the onset of cold weather, protect your pipes from freezing by following these recommendations.
· Drain water from swimming pool and water sprinkler supply lines following manufacturer’s or installer’s directions. Do not put antifreeze in these lines unless directed. Antifreeze is environmentally harmful, and is dangerous to humans, pets, wildlife, and landscaping.
· Remove, drain, and store hoses used outdoors. Close inside valves supplying outdoor hose bibs. Open the outside hose bibs to allow water to drain. Keep the outside valve open so that any water remaining in the pipe can expand without causing the pipe to break.
· Add insulation to attics, basements and crawl spaces. Insulation will maintain higher temperatures in these areas.
· Check around the home for other areas where water supply lines are located in unheated areas. Look in the garage, and under kitchen and bathroom cabinets. Both hot and cold-water pipes in these areas should be insulated.
· Consider installing specific products made to insulate water pipes like a “pipe sleeve” or installing UL-listed “heat tape,” “heat cable,” or similar materials on exposed water pipes. Newspaper can provide some degree of insulation and protection to exposed pipes – even ¼” of newspaper can provide significant protection in areas that usually do not have frequent or prolonged temperatures below freezing.
· Consider relocating exposed pipes to provide increased protection from freezing.
How to Prevent Frozen Pipes
· Keep garage doors closed if there are water supply lines in the garage.
· Open kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors to allow warmer air to circulate around the plumbing. Be sure to move any harmful cleaners and household chemicals up out of the reach of children.
· When the weather is very cold outside, let the cold-water drip from the faucet served by exposed pipes. Running water through the pipe – even at a trickle – helps prevent pipes from freezing.
· Keep the thermostat set to the same temperature both during the day and at night. By temporarily suspending the use of lower nighttime temperatures, you may incur a higher heating bill, but you can prevent a much more costly repair job if pipes freeze and burst.
· If you will be going away during cold weather, leave the heat on in your home, set to a temperature no lower than 55° F.
How to Thaw Frozen Pipes
· If you turn on a faucet and only a trickle comes out, suspect a frozen pipe. Likely places for frozen pipes include against exterior walls or where your water service enters your home through the foundation.
· Keep the faucet open. As you treat the frozen pipe and the frozen area begins to melt, water will begin to flow through the frozen area. Running water through the pipe will help melt ice in the pipe.
· Apply heat to the section of pipe using an electric heating pad wrapped around the pipe, an electric hair dryer, a portable space heater (kept away from flammable materials), or by wrapping pipes with towels soaked in hot water. Do not use a blowtorch, kerosene or propane heater, charcoal stove, or other open flame device.
· Apply heat until full water pressure is restored. If you are unable to locate the frozen area, if the frozen area is not accessible, or if you cannot thaw the pipe, call a licensed plumber.
· Check all other faucets in your home to find out if you have additional frozen pipes. If one pipe freezes, others may freeze, too.
City and County officials at the groundbreaking ceremony. “This groundbreaking reflects our continued commitment to delivering meaningful infrastructure improvements for our community,” Ellie Torres, Hidalgo County Commissioner Precinct 4 stated. “This phase will be expanded from a 2 lane water highway to a 6 lane water highway.” Courtesy image
Texas Border Business
Hidalgo County Precinct 4 celebrated the groundbreaking of Mission–McAllen Drain Phase IV, marking continued progress on a five-phase drainage improvement project aimed at strengthening flood mitigation efforts and improving public safety throughout the region.
The Mission–McAllen Drain project is funded through the 2023 Bond Program. The multi-phase initiative reflects Precinct 4’s long-term commitment to modernizing drainage infrastructure and reducing flooding risks for residents in Mission, McAllen, and surrounding areas.
Progress across the five phases includes:
Phase 1: Completed in June 2025
Phase 2: Currently under construction
Phase 3: Completed in September 2025
Phase 4: Now underway following today’s groundbreaking
Phase 5: In progress with surveying work
Mission–McAllen Drain Phase IV has an estimated project cost of $2,368,487- and will improve approximately 3.17 miles of drainage infrastructure within Precinct 4. The project scope includes ditch regrading, ditch reconstruction and widening, ditch re-alignment, installation of concrete riprap, and construction of storm drain structures.
The project is being delivered in partnership with Hidalgo County Drainage District No. 1, with ECON Group serving as the contractor.
Over the past several years, Hidalgo County Precinct 4 has prioritized drainage improvements by leveraging in-house projects, voter-approved bond funding, and state and federal resources. These combined efforts have resulted in significant drainage enhancements across the precinct, improving resiliency and protecting homes, businesses, and critical infrastructure.
“This groundbreaking reflects our continued commitment to delivering meaningful infrastructure improvements for our community,” Ellie Torres, Hidalgo County Commissioner Precinct 4 stated. “This phase will be expanded from a 2 lane water highway to a 6 lane water highway.”
Precinct 4 remains committed to advancing infrastructure projects that enhance quality of life, promote safety, and support sustainable growth throughout Hidalgo County.
Cameron County, along with the greater Rio Grande Valley, is expected to experience a significant drop in temperatures beginning late Sunday night and continuing into Monday morning. Image for illustration purposes
Texas Border Business
Cameron County, along with the greater Rio Grande Valley, is expected to experience a significant drop in temperatures beginning late Sunday night and continuing into Monday morning. County officials urge all residents to take immediate steps to prepare for freezingconditions and to prioritize safety for themselves, their families, and their neighbors. To help ensure employee safety during morning commutes, Cameron County offices will operate on a delayed start, with employees reporting at 10:00 a.m.
According to the National Weather Service (NWS), a countywide freeze is likely to occur early Monday morning, with the most critical window expected between 4:00 a.m. and 9:00 a.m. Wind chills may result in “feels like” temperatures dropping into the teens and 20s. Forecasts indicate 4 to 8 hours of persistent below-freezing temperatures, which could pose serious risks to people, pets, infrastructure, andvegetation.
Cameron County officials emphasize the importance of preparing for the cold by protecting the four P’s: People, Pets, Pipes, and Plants. Residents are strongly encouraged to take protective measures by sunset Sunday evening, before freezing temperatures set in.
Weather and Infrastructure Updates
The NWS is not currently expecting ice accumulation, including on bridges and roadways. However, residents are urged to exercise caution when driving in freezing conditions.
Local energy providers report they are prepared to respond as needed. Isolated to scattered power outages may occur from late Sunday night through Tuesday morning due to cold temperatures, increased energy demand, and some wind.
Fire and Carbon Monoxide Safety
Residents are reminded not to use indoor fires, gas stoves, or generators indoors as a means of staying warm. These practices pose a serious risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. Only approved heating sources should be used, following all safety guidelines.
For Immediate Release
January 23, 2026
Page 2 of 2
Community Resources and Warming Centers
The Cameron County Office of Emergency Management (CCOEM) is actively coordinating and gathering information regarding availablecommunity resources, including potential warming centers. A preliminary list of possible warming centers is being compiled.However, activation remains pending and will be determined based on additional guidance from the National Weather Service. Further details will be shared as they become available.
Currently, Loaves and Fishes (514 S. E St., Harlingen, TX 78550) and the Ozanam Center (656 N. Minnesota Ave., Brownsville, TX 78521) are currently serving as warming shelters. Residents are encouraged to check for updates on additional warming shelter locations that may become available.
School Delays and Closures
At this time, several local school districts have announced delayed start times for Monday for students and staff. These include:
Brownsville ISD
Point Isabel ISD
Guadalupe Regional Middle School
Harmony Schools
Marine Military Academy
Horizon Montessori Public Schools
Raul Yzaguirre Schools for Success
Additionally, Rio Hondo ISD has announced the cancellation of classes on Monday, January 26.
Families are encouraged to monitor official communication channels from their respective school districts for the most up-to-date information.
Stay Informed
Residents are encouraged to stay informed by following:
Cameron County Office of Emergency Management (CCOEM)
Local school districts
City governments
Energy providers
Cameron County will continue to share updates as new information becomes available from the National Weather Service, particularly as conditions evolve Sunday evening.
For ongoing updates and preparedness information, please monitor official channels and trusted local sources.
Image captured on surveillance camera. Courtesy of Mcallen PD
Texas Border Business
The McAllen Police Department is asking for the public’s assistance in locating and identifying a person of interest in a Criminal Mischief and Discharge of a Firearm investigation.
On January 06, 2026, McAllen Police Officers received a report of damage to a business located at the 5000 block of North 10th St in McAllen, TX where unknown individual discharged a firearm, resulting in property damage. The person depicted in the image is considered a person of interest in this investigation. The person of interest is described as a Hispanic male believed to be his late 20’s to early 30’s, approximately 5’7” to 5’10”, weighing approximately 180 pounds. He has black hair and brown eyes, wears glasses and was last seen wearing a black hoodie, black sweat pants, and black shoes. If you know the identity of the person of interest or where he may be located, you are urged to call McAllen Crime Stoppers at 956-687-8477.
Image captured on surveillance camera. Courtesy of Mcallen PD
Anyone with information about the crime or of the person of interest is urged to call McAllen Crime Stoppers at 956-687-TIPS (956-687-8477). Information that leads to an arrest may be eligible for a cash reward. Tips may also be submitted anonymously through the smart phone app “P3 Tips.”
