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Brownsville Selects Long-Serving Financial Professional to Lead Finance Department 

Stephen Muse, CGFM, has been appointed the City of Brownsville's new finance director. Courtesy image
Stephen Muse, CGFM, has been appointed the City of Brownsville’s new finance director. Courtesy image

BROWNSVILLE, Texas – Following an extensive search to identify a proven financial leader, City of Brownsville’s Interim City Manager Alan Guard, CGFO, is pleased to announce the selection of Stephen Muse, CGFM, as the City’s new Finance Director. Mr. Muse brings more than a decade of municipal finance experience and a strong record of fiscal stewardship, strategic planning, and leadership within the organization.

Mr. Muse has served the City of Brownsville since 2012 in progressively responsible roles within the Finance Department, including Interim Finance Director, Aviation Accounting Manager, and Financial Services Accounting Manager. Most recently, he served as Assistant Director, where he oversaw daily departmental operations, led the annual audit and budget processes, and acted as a key liaison between executive leadership and finance teams. During his tenure as Interim Finance Director, Mr. Muse successfully constructed the City of Brownsville Fiscal Year 2026 Budget, which was balanced and unanimously approved by the City Commission.

“Stephen brings a wealth of knowledge and institutional experience to this role,” said Mr. Guard. “Having served as Interim Finance Director, he has already demonstrated his ability to lead with integrity and precision. His work in developing a balanced and unanimously approved Fiscal Year 2026 Budget is a reflection of his technical expertise and also his commitment to transparency, collaboration, and sound financial management for the City of Brownsville.”

Throughout his career, Mr. Muse has led several high-impact initiatives, including the City’s first formal Five-Year Capital Improvement Plan totaling $83 million, the development of a $1.9 million Fleet Replacement Program, and multiple cost-saving efforts that generated measurable annual savings.

His background includes overseeing investment management, capital improvement planning, grant administration, and long-term financial forecasting, all of which strengthen the City’s financial foundation.

Mr. Muse holds a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting from The University of Texas at Brownsville and is a Certified Government Financial Manager (CGFM).

“I am truly honored by the trust and confidence placed in me,” said Mr. Muse. “I am grateful for the opportunity to continue serving the City of Brownsville and its residents. As Finance Director, I am ready to elevate my service, strengthen our financial planning efforts, and ensure responsible stewardship of public resources in support of our community’s priorities.”

The City of Brownsville congratulates Stephen Muse on his appointment and looks forward to his continued leadership and contributions to the City’s financial future.

Columbia University Research Highlights Success of STC Dual Credit Programs

South Texas College (STC) Dual Credit Programs earned national recognition after being selected to participate in a research study conducted by the Community College Research Center (CCRC) at Teachers College, Columbia University. STC image
South Texas College (STC) Dual Credit Programs earned national recognition after being selected to participate in a research study conducted by the Community College Research Center (CCRC) at Teachers College, Columbia University. STC image

By Veronica Salinas

South Texas College (STC) Dual Credit Programs earned national recognition after being selected to participate in a research study conducted by the Community College Research Center (CCRC) at Teachers College, Columbia University.

The study examined how colleges can strategically invest limited resources to sustainably scale practices that provide students with more purposeful and impactful dual enrollment experiences. 

Based on its findings, the research team expressed strong admiration for STC’s dual credit model, highlighting the robust support systems, intentional practices and institutional resources that help sustain dual enrollment efforts while expanding access and success for underserved high school students. 

“Being selected by the Community College Research Center at Columbia University is an incredible honor for South Texas College,” said Rebecca De Leon, Ph. D., associate vice president for Dual Credit Programs and School District Partnerships. “It affirms the intentional work taking place across our 21 school district partnerships and highlights the success of our dual credit students, faculty and partners on a national level.”

STC’s Dual Credit Programs are designed to go beyond early access to college coursework by prioritizing long-term student success. Through strategic curriculum alignment, comprehensive advising and nationally recognized quality standards, STC ensures students are prepared for meaningful academic and career pathways.

“At South Texas College, dual credit is more than simply getting students into college classrooms,” said De Leon. “We intentionally align curriculum with high school endorsements and industry-based credentials, while providing robust advising and support systems so students thrive every step of the way. Additionally, as the first and only National Alliance of Concurrent Enrollment Partnerships (NACEP) accredited dual credit program in the state of Texas, we ensure that our students receive a top-tier college experience with credits that count toward meaningful degrees, careers and transfer opportunities.”

This national recognition underscores STC’s mission to serve the Rio Grande Valley (RGV) by creating equitable educational opportunities that empower students and strengthen communities.

“This recognition is deeply meaningful because it shines a national spotlight on the talent, resilience and potential of students in the RGV,” said De Leon. “It reflects the power of early college opportunities and the life-changing impact they have on our families and communities.”

The CCRC’s findings further position STC as a national leader in dual enrollment innovation and student-centered educational practices.

To read more about the study, visit: https://ccrc.tc.columbia.edu/publications/college-business-models-dual-enrollment.html. 

Information source: STC

New A.I.M. Harlingen Program Launches to Strengthen Manufacturing Sector

By Harlingen Economic Development Corporation

HARLINGEN, Texas – Companies in Harlingen may be eligible to take advantage of a new initiative designed to support operational excellence for small to medium-sized manufacturers. The A.I.M. Harlingen, or “Advance in Manufacturing,” program is a joint effort between the Harlingen Economic Development Corporation (HEDC) and the Texas Manufacturing Assistance Center (TMAC) at UTRGV.

Through this partnership, HEDC and TMAC will provide a comprehensive and partially funded excellence assistance program that will respond to the need for these companies to become more efficient and maximize the use of their existing resources to cope with current regional economic and operational challenges.

Local manufacturers often lack access to affordable, high-quality consulting and technical assistance, says David Ortiz with TMAC’s Training and Development. The A.I.M. Harlingen grant is designed to address this gap.

“By lowering the cost barrier to high-quality technical assistance, we are enabling manufacturers to streamline operations, enhance competitiveness, and prepare for future growth.”

Each project will include up to 24 hours of tailored technical support at a shared cost between HEDC, the manufacturer, and TMAC. HEDC will provide up to $4,200 in matching grants, about 50% of the total cost. TMAC’s experienced providers will work directly with company leadership and staff to identify opportunities for improvement and guide them through the implementation process in the areas of Strategic Planning, Manufacturing Operations, Quality, Distribution, and Supply Chain.

“The A.I.M. Harlingen program reflects our continued commitment to strengthening Harlingen’s manufacturing base, supporting job retention and expansion, and fostering a resilient local economy,” said Orlando Campos, CEO of HEDC. “We look forward to the long-term impact of this work.”

Those interested in learning more about the A.I.M. Harlingen program are encouraged to contact the HEDC at 956-216-5081 or jlozano@harlingenedc.com.

About Texas Manufacturing Assistance Center at UTRGV

TMAC at UTRGV is an affiliate of the National Institute of Standards and Technology’s Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) program. Visit TMAC’s web page at www.tmac.org to learn more about TMAC South Texas.

About Harlingen Economic Development Corporation

The Harlingen Economic Development Corporation (EDC) partners with businesses, investors, and local stakeholders to strengthen the economic vitality of Harlingen, Texas. Guided by a mission to enhance the quality of life for all residents, the Harlingen EDC delivers strategic, outcome-driven initiatives designed to attract and retain businesses, expand employment opportunities, and cultivate a vibrant, forward-thinking business climate. These collective efforts position Harlingen as a dynamic place to live, work, and do business.

Information source: Harlingen EDC

Judge Jorge Zambrano Highlights Public Service Record at Hidalgo County Campaign Mixer

Judge Jorge Zambrano. Image Texas Border Business
Judge Jorge Zambrano. Image Texas Border Business

Judge Jorge Zambrano presented his qualifications and campaign message during a meet-and-greet event in Hidalgo County, where local judges, elected officials, attorneys, and community leaders gathered in support of his bid for Justice of the Peace, Precinct 2, Place 1.

The event opened with formal recognition of county and municipal officials, setting a tone of political significance and institutional support. Attendees included other judges, county officials, school trustees, and leaders from the local legal and political community.

Judge Jorge Zambrano is addressing guests. Image Texas Border Business

Zambrano’s introduction was delivered by Veronica Bernal, who described her professional experience working alongside him during his early years in public service. She said Judge Zambrano was “someone who listened, who was respectful, and someone who showed up,” adding that those qualities are essential, whether it’s public service, whether it’s education, or justice. Bernal also emphasized his connection to the community, saying that unlike people who “run from where they’re from,” Zambrano “runs towards it because they know the importance of giving back to the community that has shaped us.”

In his remarks, Judge Zambrano outlined what he described as a progression of public service roles that he believes uniquely prepare him for the justice of the peace position. “I started my service back about 10 years ago when I decided to run for the PSJAschool board at age 28,” he said. He explained that his decision was driven by concerns about education and poverty levels, stating that he wanted students in the community to have “an opportunity…to get out of the generational poverty that oftentimes students and families experience.”

Judge Zambrano said he served eight years on the school board, where decisions directly affected families and students. “At the school board level, we made decisions that positively impacted families, that impacted students,” he said. “I just love to do that.”

He also talked about his experience as a municipal judge, describing his work with attorneys, court staff, and law enforcement. “Rest assured that any person or any individual who goes to my courtroom is treated with dignity and respect,” Zambrano said, calling that principle central to his judicial role.

In addition, he referenced his working experience at the Zambrano Law Firm. He said his main goal at the firm was always to ensure that “every client that goes to us…is treated with dignity and respect in order to navigate the legal process correctly.” Zambrano said his experience in education governance, municipal judging, and working at a law firm “has shaped me into the person I am today.”

Judge Zambrano told attendees that he is seeking their support because he believes he is “the best candidate out there for justice of the peace precinct two, place one.” He emphasized accessibility as a central campaign promise, saying, “I want to let you know that I’m going to be available to you guys, that I’m going to be accessible to you guys.”

He said he plans to maintain an “open door policy,” adding that it would apply “whether you’re a lawyer, a bondsman, or a community member.” Judge Zambrano described the justice of the peace court as “the people’s court” and said he intends to represent the precinct “to the best of my ability.”

Judge Zambrano reminded the audience that early voting begins February 17, and that Election Day is March 3. He closed by thanking supporters for attending and expressing appreciation for their continued backing, saying their presence “means the world to me.”

Texas Prosecutors Charge 318 in New Immigration Cases

A total of 318 additional cases have been filed in immigration and border-related matters from Jan. 9-15. Image for illustration purposes
A total of 318 additional cases have been filed in immigration and border-related matters from Jan. 9-15. Image for illustration purposes

U.S. Attorney’s Office, Southern District of Texas

HOUSTON – A total of 318 additional cases have been filed in immigration and border-related matters from Jan. 9-15.

Of those charged, 113 people face illegal entry charges, while another 180 face charges of felony reentry after removal. Many of those charged have prior felony convictions involving narcotics, violent crimes and immigration offenses. An additional 24 people are accused of engaging in human smuggling, while the remaining two face charges related to other immigration crimes.

These cases were referred or supported by federal law enforcement partners, including Immigration and Customs Enforcement – Homeland Security Investigations, ICE – Enforcement and Removal Operations, Border Patrol, Drug Enforcement Administration, FBI, U.S. Marshals Service and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with additional assistance from state and local law enforcement partners.

The cases are part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.

Under current leadership, public safety and a secure border are the top priorities for this district. Enhanced enforcement both at the border and in the interior of the district have yielded aliens engaged in unlawful activity or with serious criminal histories, including convictions for human trafficking, sexual assault and violence against children. 

The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Texas remains one of the busiest in the nation. It represents 43 counties and more than nine million people covering 44,000 square miles. Assistant U.S. Attorneys from all seven divisions including Houston, Galveston, Victoria, Corpus Christi, Brownsville, McAllen and Laredo work directly with our law enforcement partners on the federal, state and local levels to prosecute the suspected offenders of these and other federal crimes.

An indictment or criminal complaint is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence. A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.

USBP Reports Zero Releases for 8th Month

CBP recorded its lowest encounter totals ever to start a fiscal year. Image: USCBP Flickr Public
CBP recorded its lowest encounter totals ever to start a fiscal year. Image: USCBP Flickr Public

WASHINGTON — U.S. Customs and Border Protection released operational statistics for December 2025 under President Donald Trump’s border security policies.

“Thanks to President Trump’s leadership and the dedication of DHS law enforcement, America’s borders are safer than any time in our nation’s history. What President Trump and our CBP agents and officers have been able to do in a single year is nothing short of extraordinary,” said U.S. Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem. “Once again, we have a record low number of encounters at the border and the 8th straight month of zero releases. Month after month, we are delivering results that were once thought impossible: the most secure border in history and unmatched enforcement successes.”

“Our agents and officers have set a new standard for border security, achieving historic results that speak for themselves,” said CBP Commissioner Rodney Scott. “The men and women of CBP are demonstrating what’s possible through unwavering commitment and effective enforcement and will continue to ensure the safety and security of our nation’s borders every single day.”

Below is a snapshot of December’s key figures. Full monthly reporting can be viewed on CBP’s Stats and Summaries webpage.

Border Enforcement at Historic Levels

CBP recorded its lowest encounter totals ever to start a fiscal year:

  • 91,603 total encounters nationwide in October, November, December – lower than any prior fiscal year to date. This is 25% lower than the previous low of 121,469 in FY2012.
  • U.S. Border Patrol recorded the lowest number of apprehensions along the southwest border ever in the first quarter of a fiscal year (21,815 in FY2026), which was 95%lower than the first quarter average under the Biden administration.

Illegal crossings in December remained historically low:

  • 30,698 total encounters nationwide in December— 92% below the peak of the Biden administration’s 370,883, and the lowest encounters ever for a month of December.
  • 6,478 USBP apprehensions on the southwest border in December — 96% lower than the monthly average of the Biden administration, and less than what was apprehended in four days in December 2024.
  • 209 USBP apprehensions per day on the southwest border in December — 96% lower than the daily average under the Biden administration, and less than the number apprehended every 1.5 hours under the Biden administration.
  • Zero parole releases — compared to 7,041 released by the Border Patrol under the Biden administration along the southwest border in December 2024.

Visit for more encounter statistics.

Drug Interdictions That Save Lives

As the nation’s border security agency, CBP is on the frontline against foreign terrorist organizations that threaten the safety and well-being of Americans. CBP is uniquely positioned to detect, identify, and seize illicit drugs like fentanyl before they enter our communities.

Nationwide in December, CBP seized 39,030 pounds of illicit drugs, including the following seizure totals:

  • Fentanyl seizures: 865 pounds
  • Methamphetamine seizures: 12,833 pounds
  • Cocaine seizures: 3,793 pounds
  • Heroin seizures: 164 pounds
  • Marijuana seizures: 14,445 pounds

Additional CBP drug seizure statistics can be found on the Drug Seizure Statistics webpage.

Tariff Enforcement & Economic Security

CBP plays a central role in executing the President’s tariff policy through trade enforcement and revenue collection authorities. This has included the implementation of 42 presidential tariff actions directed by the Trump administration. In December 2025 alone, CBP:

  • Processed $314 billion in imports
  • Identified $28.4 billion in duties owed

From Jan. 20 through Dec. 31, CBP collected:

  • $297 billion from all tariffs, taxes, and fees

Through audits, targeting, and frontline import reviews, CBP is enforcing trade law and safeguarding America’s economic sovereignty.

Visit our CBP’s tariff implementation page for more.

Trade Compliance Grows More Complex as Companies Face Constant Regulatory Change

Jorge Torres, President of Interlink Trade Services. Courtesy image. Bgd for illustration purposes
Jorge Torres, President of Interlink Trade Services. Courtesy image. Bgd for illustration purposes

By Roberto Hugo González / Texas Border Business

Trade compliance has become increasingly complex as companies navigate a growing number of regulatory changes, shifting interpretations, and heightened enforcement, according to Jorge Torres, president of Interlink Trade Services. In an interview on January 19, 2026, Torres said businesses today face challenges that go beyond traditional customs procedures and now require constant monitoring, expert interpretation, and internal coordination.

Torres said one of the main difficulties companies face is understanding how new rules are applied. “The challenges we are encountering are two-fold,” he said. “On one hand, it is the interpretation of the Executive Orders, Federal Register publications, and CBP CSMS messages, as well as getting clarification from CBP for these, which can be quite challenging and almost impossible.” He added that explaining these changes to importers is equally difficult because guidance is often subject to interpretation and future revision.

He noted that companies often seek certainty in trade decisions, but achieving it is increasingly difficult. “Trade is a moving target now, and companies need to move at the same pace or faster,” Torres said. “Nowadays, the only certainty in trade is uncertainty, and companies need to understand this and minimize their risks the best way possible.” He emphasized that staying informed through reliable sources and maintaining regular communication with trade consultants and internal compliance teams is essential.

According to Torres, one of the biggest risks companies face is relying on unreliable or incomplete information. He cautioned against using social media or general news outlets as primary sources for trade guidance. “There are very reputable publications from trade attorneys and customs brokers that have carried out a detailed analysis of the changes to be implemented,” he said. While even expert analysis may not always be fully accurate due to the complexity of regulations, he said it significantly reduces the risk of misinterpretation.

Frequent updates from executive orders, Federal Register notices, and Customs and Border Protection CSMS messages require companies to adopt structured processes for monitoring regulatory changes. Torres said organizations should designate individuals or teams to track updates and report their potential impact to senior leadership. “Someone within the company must follow up on this information and provide detailed reports to upper management to ensure that there is an understanding of the impact of these changes and how to comply,” he said.

Documentation has also become a critical area of focus. Torres said that Customs and Border Protection has increased audits and reviews of import transactions, often requesting extensive records to support importer claims. “Now more than ever, companies need to document everything related to trade,” he said. He added that keeping records of advice received from trade consultants can demonstrate “reasonable care,” which may help reduce penalties if errors occur.

Looking ahead, Torres said companies must take a proactive approach to compliance rather than treating it as a routine operational task. He emphasized the importance of internal trade compliance teams, continuous education, and open communication with external advisors. “Trade compliance is now a critical element in the decision-making process for companies; it is no longer a day-to-day operational element,” he said. He warned that failing to stay ahead of regulatory changes can result in significant financial and operational consequences.

$200M Investment to Restore and Expand Coast Guard Station in South Padre Island

The United States Coast Guard announced a landmark $200 million expansion and rebuild of the Coast Guard Station in South Padre Island (SPI). Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Chairman of the Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation, secured this money for SPI in the Working Families Tax Cut Act. Image: uscg.mil
The United States Coast Guard announced a landmark $200 million expansion and rebuild of the Coast Guard Station in South Padre Island (SPI). Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Chairman of the Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation, secured this money for SPI in the Working Families Tax Cut Act. Image: uscg.mil

WASHINGTON, D.C. – The United States Coast Guard announced a landmark $200 million expansion and rebuild of the Coast Guard Station in South Padre Island (SPI). Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Chairman of the Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation, secured this money for SPI in the Working Families Tax Cut Act. The funding represents the largest award for a shore infrastructure construction project in Coast Guard history.

Sen. Cruz said,“The Working Families Tax Cut Act is financing the $200 million restoration of South Padre Island’s Station South in Texas. This will rebuild the historic U.S. Coast Guard station after last year’s devastating fire and greatly strengthen southern border security.”

BACKGROUND

The funding will rebuild SPI facilities damaged by a fire last April. Construction will also cover station facilities, pier infrastructure, a new harbor operations center, and a joint support space with U.S. Customs and Border Protection.

Located just six miles north of Mexico, Coast Guard Station South Padre Island is at the forefront of securing our southern border. The project will help the Coast Guard protect the U.S.-Mexico border and its surrounding waterways, support the safe flow of commerce, and respond quickly to emergencies along the Gulf of America.

Abbott Receives Back the Blue Award at 32nd Cops’ Cop Event

The Governor was joined at the event by Assist the Officer Foundation Chairman and Dallas Police Department Sergeant Ed Lujan, Dallas Police Officer James Parnell, and other law enforcement leaders. The event was emceed by CBS 11 news reporter Amelia Mugavero. Photo: Office of the Governor
The Governor was joined at the event by Assist the Officer Foundation Chairman and Dallas Police Department Sergeant Ed Lujan, Dallas Police Officer James Parnell, and other law enforcement leaders. The event was emceed by CBS 11 news reporter Amelia Mugavero. Photo: Office of the Governor

DALLAS — Governor Greg Abbott delivered remarks at the Dallas Police Department’s Assist the Officer Foundation’s 32nd annual Cops’ Cop banquet. 

“States and communities need law enforcement and leaders who are committed to the cause of public safety,” said Governor Abbott. “You represent the very best of our great state, and Texas is better today because of what you do every day. I just want you to know you have a governor who has your back, and together, we will keep Texas safe and secure.”

A capacity crowd at the “Cops” event in Dallas listening to Gevernor’s remarks. Photo: Office of The Governor

The Governor was joined at the event by Assist the Officer Foundation Chairman and Dallas Police Department Sergeant Ed Lujan, Dallas Police Officer James Parnell, and other law enforcement leaders. The event was emceed by CBS 11 news reporter Amelia Mugavero.

Governor Abbot at the “Cops” event in Dallas. Photo: Office of the Governor

During his remarks, the Governor thanked the police officers for their dedication to protect Texas citizens and uphold the rule of law every day. The Governor also highlighted the back the blue legislation he signed into law this past session – the strongest bail reform package in Texas history – which ended the revolving door for violent criminals and is taking violent criminals off our streets. After his remarks, Governor Abbott was presented the “Back the Blue” Award in recognition of his dedication to the Dallas Police Department.

McAllen Veterans War Memorial Adds New Revolutionary War Tributes

The ceremony was enhanced by the presence of the McAllen Fire Department Pipe and Drum Corps and city leadership, including Victor “Seby” Haddad, Mayor Pro Tem and Commissioner for District 5, and Rolando “Rolly” Rios, Commissioner for District 3.
The ceremony was enhanced by the presence of the McAllen Fire Department Pipe and Drum Corps and city leadership, including Victor “Seby” Haddad, Mayor Pro Tem and Commissioner for District 5, and Rolando “Rolly” Rios, Commissioner for District 3.

McALLEN, Texas – The City of McAllen gathered at the Veterans War Memorial of Texas for a special dedication ceremony hosted by the Daughters of the American Revolution.

During the ceremony, two new markers were unveiled honoring American Revolutionary War and International Military Leaders of the American Revolution. The markers recognize those who stood with the colonies in the fight for independence, including foreign leaders, African Americans, and American Indians who supported the cause, as part of the America 250! commemoration.

A special recognition was presented to Col. Frank Plummer, a three-war veteran who served with distinction in World War II, Korea, and Vietnam, honoring his lifelong dedication to service. Image courtesy of the City of McAllen

The ceremony was enhanced by the presence of the McAllen Fire Department Pipe and Drum Corps and city leadership, including Victor “Seby” Haddad, Mayor Pro Tem and Commissioner for District 5, and Rolando “Rolly” Rios, Commissioner for District 3.

A special recognition was presented to Col. Frank Plummer, a three-war veteran who served with distinction in World War II, Korea, and Vietnam, honoring his lifelong dedication to service. The event was led by Pamela Wright, President of the Daughters of the American Revolution, and reflected a collective commitment to preserving history, honoring sacrifice, and celebrating patriotism for future generations.

Information source: The City of McAllen