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STC Earns National Distinction for Affordable Online Programs

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STC Earns National Distinction for Affordable Online Programs
South Texas College is nationally known for many of its programs and initiatives, and this summer, it has also been named one of the “Most Affordable Schools for Online Associate Degrees” in the nation by OnlineU. STC image
South Texas College is nationally known for many of its programs and initiatives, and this summer, it has also been named one of the “Most Affordable Schools for Online Associate Degrees” in the nation by OnlineU. STC image

Texas Border Business

By Amanda Sotelo

South Texas College is nationally known for many of its programs and initiatives, and this summer, it has also been named one of the “Most Affordable Schools for Online Associate Degrees” in the nation by OnlineU.

OnlineU is an online education industry-ranking organization that uses data-driven analysis and transparent reporting to provide students across the nation with the critical insights needed to make informed decisions about their future.  

Currently, STC offers 22 online associate degree programs ranging from Accounting, Computer Science, Education to Human Resources, Interdisciplinary Studies, Paralegal and Social Work. STC image

Ranking No. 11, and one out of only three colleges in Texas to earn this recognition, STC met several key factors to earn this distinction, such as being institutionally accredited – STC is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), meet tuition criteria as set forth by OnlineU regarding in-state and out-of-state tuition and have at least 10 online associate degree programs.

“This recognition underscores STC’s unwavering commitment to accessible, affordable and high-quality education,” said Anahid Petrosian, Ph.D., vice president and provost for Academic Affairs and Economic Development. “This national ranking affirms our commitment to eliminating financial barriers while expanding flexible, fully-online pathways that deliver meaningful opportunities and exceptional value.”

Currently, STC offers 22 online associate degree programs ranging from Accounting, Computer Science, Education to Human Resources, Interdisciplinary Studies, Paralegal and Social Work.

As of fall 2024, 11,675 traditional and dual credit students have enrolled in online classes to earn either a certificate, associate degree or bachelor’s degree from STC.

One of those students is Tasha Bellevue, a Florida resident who recently earned an associate degree in Social Work by taking advantage of STC’s fully online program.

The 38-year-old said STC’s online Social Work program allowed her to work toward her purpose of helping others. Bellevue chose STC for its affordability and flexibility.

“It just felt right. STC gave me the motivation to succeed and offer my children a better life,” she said. “Completing this online program through STC has been a beneficial experience, allowing me to balance a full-time job, school and my family. I couldn’t have done it otherwise. I’m proud to be an online alumna from South Texas College.”

For many students like Bellevue, STC’s online program tuition costs, on average, between $7,620 and $9,800, making it the most affordable nationally and in the Rio Grande Valley compared to other institutions of higher education.

Additionally, students can register, pay and complete advisement entirely online with the college’s virtual campus.

STC President Ricardo J. Solis, Ph.D., has consistently emphasized the importance of making a college education accessible and affordable for all students, making this recognition a testament to STC’s mission, vision and values.

“We are proud to receive this recognition. It’s a reflection of the impact we are making not only in our region, but beyond,” said Solis. “To be recognized as a national leader in affordable online education echoes our commitment to making high-quality, flexible academic programs accessible to all students. These factors should never be a barrier to achieving a college degree.”

Petrosian added that as STC continues to expand offerings, providing students with online options remains in the forefront of program innovation.

“As we continue to grow and innovate across all programs, online education remains a key strategy to meet students where they are and prepare them for success in the workforce,” she said.

For more information on STC’s online programs, visit southtexascollege.edu/online.  

Information source: STC

Mrs Baird’s Bread Kicks Off Fourth-Annual Fighting Texas Hunger 2025

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Mrs Baird’s Bread Kicks Off Fourth-Annual Fighting Texas Hunger 2025
Consumers can look for Fighting Texas Hunger displays at local grocery stores and scan the QR code to make a direct donation the Food Bank of the Rio Grande Valley. Image for illustration purposes. Logos Courtesy of Food Bank RGV
Consumers can look for Fighting Texas Hunger displays at local grocery stores and scan the QR code to make a direct donation the Food Bank of the Rio Grande Valley. Image for illustration purposes. Logos Courtesy of Food Bank RGV

Texas Border Business

AUSTIN – Mrs Baird’s Bread has been giving back to Texas communities since 1908, when Ninnie Baird started baking her famous bread for her neighbors in Fort Worth. It was in this neighborhood where her legacy for charity was established — helping those who were hungry or couldn’t pay. The company she founded is proud to carry on this tradition by teaming up with local food banks for the fourth-annual Fighting Texas Hunger program.

 Mrs Baird’s® is donating one loaf of bread to the Food Bank RGV for every loaf sold on June 17, 2025 with a total commitment of up to 11,000 loaves.

“We are excited to continue the tradition Ninnie Baird started more than 117 years ago of helping our neighbors,” said Tim Geiger, Mrs Baird’s Vice President. “Food insecurity continues to be a large issue in our community. It is our hope that Fighting Texas Hunger will continue to help food banks not only with fresh bread, but also added awareness from consumers.”

The program makes it easy for folks in the RGV to participate. Consumers can look for Fighting Texas Hunger displays at local grocery stores and scan the QR code to make a direct donation the Food Bank of the Rio Grande Valley. Donations to the food bank are also accepted online. Simply select the Food Bank of the Rio Grande Valley link on the list to make your donation. According to Feeding America, just $1 will provide 7 meals to kids and families facing hunger this summer.

Committed to Feeding Texas and Bolstering Local Food Banks

For the month of June, Mrs Baird’s will donate more than 175,000 loaves of fresh bread to local food banks in Austin, Corpus Christi, Dallas, Houston, San Antonio, Fort Worth, Midland/Odessa, Lubbock, Amarillo, Tyler and the McAllen/Rio Grande Valley area. In the Valley, Mrs Baird’s will pledge 11,000 loaves of fresh bread to the Central Texas Food Bank.

Why Do Texas Food Banks Need Your Support in June? 

It’s around this time of year when schools are out that food banks are most in need of donations. Children are no longer receiving school lunches, and families rely on food banks to help them through the summer months. This is why Fighting Texas Hunger is so important — it raises awareness of local food banks and their needs while giving back to the community.

Donations of fresh bread rather than “day old” bread will help food banks expand their reach and meet the needs of more families in our communities. 

Join Us in Fighting Texas Hunger

Mrs Baird’s invites you to join us all month long as we give back to our communities and fight hunger in the Rio Grande Valley.

Here are the three ways you can donate today: 
Food donations – Visit the Food Bank of the Rio Grande Valley to drop off a donation.
Monetary donations – Find the Fighting Texas Hunger QR code in your local grocery store or visit us online at mrsbairds.com/fightingtexashunger. 100% of our donation goes directly to the Food Bank of the Rio Grande Valley.

3. Volunteering – Donate your time and volunteer at the Food Bank of the Rio Grande Valley.

Our efforts can have a lasting impact on families across Texas, but we cannot do it without your generosity. Your participation is key to the success of Fighting Texas Hunger, and we are grateful for your partnership. Together, let’s help our fellow Texans and make a difference in the community by keeping the Mrs Baird’s tradition alive. 

About Fighting Texas Hunger 

Food banks in Dallas, Fort Worth, Houston and San Antonio were the beneficiaries of the first Fighting Texas Hunger drive in 2021. Through annual market expansions, today, Mrs Baird’s is proud to help expand the program to more Texas cities in 2025, including Austin, Corpus Christi, Midland/Odessa, Lubbock, Amarillo, Tyler and the Rio Grande Valley. 

Food insecurity is one of the most serious problems facing people in Texas, especially children. Inflation, supply chain challenges, and funding cuts have made it harder for families to keep their pantries stocked. 

Food banks have struggled to meet the growing demand for assistance, which is why it’s so important for Texans to band together and meet this challenge. Your donation will go directly tothe Food Bank of the Rio Grande Valley to feed families in our community. 

Mrs Baird’s is proud to be part of the solution, and we hope you’ll join us in this worthy cause.

Information source: Food Bank of The Rio Grande Valley

Rego Family Supports IB Students Through Annual Scholarships

Roberto H. Gonzalez
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Rego Family Supports IB Students Through Annual Scholarships
Sony Rego, joined by her husband, Albert Rego, presented scholarship funds to IB students from Lamar Academy during the 2025 Pinning Ceremony in support of the Santa Fe Steakhouse Foundation’s ongoing commitment to education. Image by Roberto Hugo González
Sony Rego, joined by her husband, Albert Rego, presented scholarship funds to IB students from Lamar Academy during the 2025 Pinning Ceremony in support of the Santa Fe Steakhouse Foundation’s ongoing commitment to education. Image by Roberto Hugo González

Texas Border Business

By Roberto Hugo González

Sony Rego, her husband Albert Rego, and their business partner Fred Harms, co-owners of Santa Fe Steakhouse and founders of The Santa Fe Steakhouse Foundation, joined McAllen ISD, Lamar Academy staff, and families in celebrating the Psi Class of 2025 during Lamar Academy’s International Baccalaureate (IB) Pinning Ceremony.

Held each year to honor graduating IB students, this year’s ceremony recognized 55 diploma candidates—the latest cohort in the school’s 23-year history of academic excellence. Principal Nora Sanchez welcomed attendees and emphasized the importance of community support. “The success and growth of any program depends on the support of many individuals,” she said. “This program would not exist and be with us today without the community support.”

Sony and Albert Rego stand proudly with 20 scholarship recipients from Lamar Academy’s IB Class of 2025 at the McAllen High School auditorium, marking a decisive moment of support and educational investment through the Santa Fe Steakhouse Foundation. Image by Roberto Hugo González

As part of the celebration, Sony and Albert Rego presented scholarships to 20 of the 55 IB seniors, continuing a long-standing commitment to educational support through the Santa Fe Steakhouse Wine Classic, an annual fundraising event organized by the Rego family and Harms. “This gathering was to honor the completion of the IB program and the many opportunities and adventures that now await you,” said Sony Rego. “It is a true honor to be here and support your achievement.”

The Wine Classic, which has taken place annually since 2009, raises funds donated to educational institutions in McAllen. This year, the funds went directly to support students in the International Baccalaureate program at Lamar Academy. “We’ve been doing this scholarship program since 2009, and it’s been 14 years,” said Sony. “We are very proud of you and your hard work, and we congratulate you.”

Albert Rego also spoke to the graduates, offering encouragement and recognition. “On behalf of the Santa Fe Steakhouse, the Santa Fe Foundation, the Rego family, and the Harms family, we congratulate all graduates today,” he said. “It is very important that we keep our parents, loved ones, and teachers in mind as we move forward.”

Aimee Nuñez, college specialist at Lamar Academy, thanked the Regos during the ceremony for their continued generosity. “We want to thank Mr. and Mrs. Rego of the Santa Fe Foundation for their generosity in awarding scholarships to IB seniors.”

The IB Class of 2025 has already achieved full college acceptance, with students heading to top-tier institutions such as UT, Rice, TCU, MIT, Notre Dame, Northwestern, and Dartmouth. With continued support from initiatives like the Santa Fe Steakhouse Foundation, students are better positioned to succeed academically and professionally.

Teach For America Partners with PSJA ISD to Welcome New Educators

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Teach For America Partners with PSJA ISD to Welcome New Educators
These educators will be trained through the organization’s hybrid pre-service model, which includes both virtual components and in-person teaching experiences in partnership with the Pharr-San Juan-Alamo Independent School District (PSJA ISD). Image courtesy of Teach for America Rio Grande Valley
These educators will be trained through the organization’s hybrid pre-service model, which includes both virtual components and in-person teaching experiences in partnership with the Pharr-San Juan-Alamo Independent School District (PSJA ISD). Image courtesy of Teach for America Rio Grande Valley

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Mission, Texas – Teach For America (TFA) Rio Grande Valley is welcoming over 30 new educators to classrooms across the Valley. These educators will be trained through the organization’s hybrid pre-service model, which includes both virtual components and in-person teaching experiences in partnership with the Pharr-San Juan-Alamo Independent School District (PSJA ISD). Their time in local classrooms this summer will offer them the opportunity to learn from veteran teachers and gain a deeper understanding of schools and students in the Valley. Bringing new teachers into the profession is essential to strengthening the future of education, ensuring that fresh ideas and innovative approaches meet the varying needs of today’s students. 

These TFA teachers, known as corps members, are leading classrooms under the supervision of experienced mentors in PSJA ISD. This summer’s programming is a key part of TFA’s intensive pre-service experience, which began in May and will continue throughout the summer. The training focuses on instruction, learning environments, and content. 

“We’re deeply excited about our partnership with PSJA ISD to welcome new educators into the profession,” said Ana D. González, Executive Director of Teach For America Rio Grande Valley. “Our summer programming not only provides critical summer learning opportunities for students but also ensures that our newest teachers gain essential experience and understanding of the local community as they begin their careers in education.” 

“At PSJA ISD, we are proud to partner with Teach For America to help train and inspire the next generation of educators,” said Dr. Alejandro Elias, PSJA ISD Superintendent. “By opening our classrooms to new TFA corps members, we not only support their professional growth but also provide our students with enriched learning experiences. This collaboration reflects our continued commitment to excellence, innovation, and opportunity for all.” 

TFA corps members make a lifelong commitment to educational excellence and spend at least two years teaching in under-resourced schools in rural and urban areas nationwide. In the Rio Grande Valley, they serve in 12 partner districts across the region. These 30 teachers join a growing network of TFA corps members and alumni, over 5,600 in Texas, who are leading classrooms, schools, and districts, and working across sectors to impact the education system. Adding new teachers into classrooms is vital for sustaining a vibrant and resilient educational workforce that can adapt and thrive in changing times. 

For more information about Teach For America Rio Grande Valley, visit https://www.teachforamerica.org/rio-grande-valley. 

Information source: Teach For America Rio Grande Valley 

Deportation Raids May Pause in Key Sectors Amid Trump Shift

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Deportation Raids May Pause in Key Sectors Amid Trump Shift
President Donald Trump has recently indicated that he is considering exempting undocumented immigrants working in agriculture, hospitality, and related sectors from upcoming mass deportation efforts, according to multiple reports from June 15 and 16, 2025. Image for illustration purposes
President Donald Trump has recently indicated that he is considering exempting undocumented immigrants working in agriculture, hospitality, and related sectors from upcoming mass deportation efforts, according to multiple reports from June 15 and 16, 2025. Image for illustration purposes

Texas Border Business

Texas Border Business

President Donald Trump has recently indicated that he is considering exempting undocumented immigrants working in agriculture, hospitality, and related sectors from upcoming mass deportation efforts, according to multiple reports from June 15 and 16, 2025.

According to Reuters, Trump said he is evaluating the impact of his immigration enforcement policies on “very good, long-time workers” in the farming and hotel industries. In a Truth Social post on June 15, he acknowledged that changes could be coming to how deportation efforts are handled in those sectors. He stated that the current approach may hurt key American industries and added, “We’re not looking to hurt our people and businesses.”

This sentiment follows earlier comments made on June 12, when Trump told reporters he was considering issuing an order “pretty soon” to prevent economic damage to the agricultural and hospitality sectors. According to Reuters, he stated, “Our farmers are being hurt badly and we’re going to have to do something about that … hotels sector too.”

According to Axios, internal Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) communications show that workplace raids targeting undocumented immigrants in industries such as farms, hotels, restaurants, and meatpacking have already been paused. These shifts occurred under Trump’s direction in response to pressure from business leaders who warned of labor shortages if enforcement remained aggressive in those areas.

On June 16, Trump reiterated his plans to expand deportations in major Democratic-run cities, while suggesting that enforcement against undocumented laborers in essential industries was being temporarily held back. According to Reuters and the Financial Times, this approach reflects a dual-track strategy: pursuing high-profile deportations in urban areas while pausing actions in economically sensitive sectors.

  • According to The Guardian and The Daily Beast, Tatum King is a senior ICE official who issued email guidance to regional ICE leaders instructing them to “hold on all worksite enforcement investigations/operations on agriculture…restaurants and operating hotels” unless linked to criminal activity.
  • Homeland Security spokesperson Tricia McLaughlin stated that the department “will follow the President’s direction” and focus on removing the “worst of the worst criminal illegal aliens,” while pausing non-criminal workplace actions.
  • Unnamed DHS or ICE insiders, quoted by CBS News and Reuters, confirmed that enforcement pauses were taking effect and that the pause resulted from internal reactions and directives, citing industry pressures and White House intervention.

These sources—named officials and anonymous well-placed insiders—are the foundation for the statement that implementation of the policy shift is already underway within ICE, even though no executive order has yet been signed.

Judicial Watch Sues Pentagon for Records on Reported Covid-19 Infections at 2019 Wuhan Games 

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Judicial Watch Sues Pentagon for Records on Reported Covid-19 Infections at 2019 Wuhan Games 
Judicial Watch announced today it filed a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) lawsuit against the U.S. Department of Defense for all records regarding U.S. military personnel possibly contracting Covid-19 in October 2019 during the World Military Games in Wuhan, China. Pentagon image: David B. Gleason from Chicago, IL, CC BY-SA 2.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0>, via Wikimedia Commons. COVID image for illustration purposes

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Judicial Watch

WASHINGTON, DC – Judicial Watch announced today it filed a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) lawsuit against the U.S. Department of Defense for all records regarding U.S. military personnel possibly contracting Covid-19 in October 2019 during the World Military Games in Wuhan, China (Judicial Watch Inc. v. U.S. Department of Defense (No. 1:25-cv-01807)).

The lawsuit cites a December 2022 report issued by the Pentagon titled “Report to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and House of Representatives: 2019 World Military Games” which states that seven “service members who attended the games exhibited COVID-19-like signs and/or symptoms” during the time surrounding their attendance at the games.

The report was not made public until April 2025, after former Rep. Mike Gallagher (R-WI) asked the Defense Department for a full investigation. While the report had been provided to the House and Senate Armed Services Committees in December 2022, the Biden administration apparently suppressed it.

Judicial Watch sued the Defense Department after it failed to respond to an April 28, 2025, FOIA request for:

All reports, studies, memoranda, and/or analyses produced by or sent to the Joint Chiefs, Secretary of Defense, and/or Deputy Secretary of Defense related to US military personnel contracting a SARS-like or Covid-19-like virus at the Wuhan Games in October 2019.

In the 2021 documentary “What Really Happened in Wuhan,” Sky News Australia reported that a month after evidence emerged that the virus leaked from the Wuan Institute of Virology, the city of Wuhan hosted the Military Games, with more than 9,000 athletes from around the world in attendance. “The opening ceremony was held on October 18, 2019, and two weeks later, athletes begun returning home to more than 100 countries.”

The National Institutes of Health’s National Library of Medicine published a January 2021 article, “The impact of the World Military Games on the COVID-19 pandemic,” which cites a study published on January 19, 2021 that “examined the hypothesis that the large gathering in a pandemic epicenter was a factor in the spread of COVID-19 disease.”

“Let’s cut to the chase: the Pentagon should release each and every document about military personnel possibly being infected by Covid in 2019 in Wuhan, China – months before the public learned of Covid,” stated Judicial Watch President Tom Fitton. “The time for FOIA games is over.”

Judicial Watch is the national leader in exposing key information about fraud, abuse, and government secrets about Covid-19. In the book “Rights and Freedoms in Peril: An Investigative Report on the Left’s Attack on America” Tom Fitton examines the impact of Covid-19 related policies on electoral processes, and expresses concerns about the potential for increased voter fraud and chaos.

  • In May 2025, Judicial Watch received records from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services that reveal its plans to mandate Covid-19 vaccinations for 17 million health care employees and that only one of 4,682 claims for injuries and deaths due to Covid-19 “countermeasures” at the time was compensated.
  • Records uncovered in 2024 from the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) through a FOIA request showed an April 2020 email exchange with several officials in the bureau’s Newark Field Office referring to Dr. Anthony Fauci’s National Institute of Allergies and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) grant to the Wuhan Institute of Virology (WIV) in China as including “gain-of-function research” which “would leave no signature of purposeful human manipulation.”
  • Records from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) showed that a Pfizer study surveyed 23 people in 2021 to gauge reactions to its Covid vaccine booster before asking the FDA to approve it.
  • Records from the Health and Human Services included the initial grant application and annual reports to the National Institutes of Health (NIH) from EcoHealth Alliance, describing the aim of its work with the Wuhan Institute of Virology to create mutant viruses “to better predict the capacity of our CoVs [coronaviruses] to infect people.”
  • Health and Human Services records included emails of then-Director of the National Institutes of Health Francis Collins showing a British physicians’ group recommended the use of Ivermectin to prevent and treat Covid-19.
  • Records from Health and Human Services regarding data Moderna submitted to the Food and Drug Administration on its mRNA COVID-19 vaccine indicated a “statistically significant” number of rats were born with skeletal deformations after their mothers were injected with the vaccine. The documents also revealed Moderna elected not to conduct a number of standard pharmacological studies on the laboratory test animals.
  • Food and Drug Administration records detailed pressure for Covid-19 vaccine booster approval and use.
  • NIH records revealed an FBI “inquiry” into the NIH’s controversial bat coronavirus grant tied to the Wuhan Institute of Virology. The records also show National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) officials were concerned about “gain-of-function” research in China’s Wuhan Institute of Virology in 2016. The Fauci agency was also concerned about EcoHealth Alliance’s lack of compliance with reporting rules and use of gain-of-function research in the NIH-funded research involving bat coronaviruses in Wuhan, China.
  • HHS records revealed that from 2014 to 2019, $826,277 was given to the Wuhan Institute of Virology for bat coronavirus research by the NIAID.
  • NIAID records showed that it gave nine China-related grants to EcoHealth Alliance to research coronavirus emergence in bats and was the NIH’s top issuer of grants to the Wuhan lab itself. The records also included an email from the vice director of the Wuhan Lab asking an NIH official for help finding disinfectants for decontamination of airtight suits and indoor surfaces.
  • HHS records included an “urgent for Dr. Fauci ” email chain, citing ties between the Wuhan lab and the taxpayer-funded EcoHealth Alliance. The government emails also reported that the foundation of U.S. billionaire Bill Gates worked closely with the Chinese government to pave the way for Chinese-produced medications to be sold outside China and help “raise China’s voice of governance by placing representatives from China on important international counsels as high level commitment from China.”
  • HHS records included a grant application for research involving the coronavirus that appeared to describe “gain-of-function” research involving RNA extractions from bats, experiments on viruses, attempts to develop a chimeric virus and efforts to genetically manipulate the full-length bat SARSr-CoV WIV1 strain molecular clone.
  • HHS records showed the State Department and NIAID knew immediately in January 2020 that China was withholding Covid data, which was hindering risk assessment and response by public health officials.
  • University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB) records showed the former director of the Galveston National Laboratory at the University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB), Dr. James W. Le Duc warned Chinese researchers at the Wuhan Institute of Virology of potential investigations into the Covid issue by Congress.
  • HHS records regarding biodistribution studies and related data for the Covid-19 vaccines showed a key component of the vaccines developed by Pfizer/BioNTech, lipid nanoparticles (LNPs), were found outside the injection site, mainly the liver, adrenal glands, spleen and ovaries of test animals, eight to 48 hours after injection.
  • Records from the Federal Select Agent Program (FSAP) revealed safety lapses and violations at U.S. biosafety laboratories that conduct research on dangerous agents and toxins.
  • HHS records included emails between National Institutes of Health (NIH) then-Director Francis Collins and Fauci, the director of National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), about hydroxychloroquine and Covid-19.
  • HHS records showed that NIH officials tailored confidentiality forms to China’s terms and that the World Health Organization (WHO) conducted an unreleased, “strictly confidential” Covid-19 epidemiological analysis in January 2020.
  • Fauci emails included his approval of a press release supportive of China’s response to the 2019 novel coronavirus.
  • Judicial Watch’s four-part documentary regarding the coordinated effort by the government and Big Tech to censor and suppress information on topics such as Hunter Biden’s laptop, Covid-19, and election debates is available here.

Make the Most of Summer with McAllen Parks & Recreation’s 2025 Programs

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Make the Most of Summer with McAllen Parks & Recreation’s 2025 Programs
With over 600 programs available for all ages and interests, there’s still time to register and take part in the excitement. Image courtesy of The City of McAllen
With over 600 programs available for all ages and interests, there’s still time to register and take part in the excitement. Image courtesy of The City of McAllen

Texas Border Business

Summer is in full swing, and McAllen Parks & Recreation is offering more ways than ever to stay active, learn something new, and have fun all season long. With over 600 programs available for all ages and interests, there’s still time to register and take part in the excitement.

Programs, camps, and activities are designed to keep residents of all ages active, creative, and connected all summer long. From sports to arts, and everything in between, this summer promises new adventures for every interest and skill level.

Some of the most popular programs include:

Karaoke Club –
A hit with young performers ready to take the stage.
Learn to Fish –
Outdoor fun for families and first-time anglers.
Advanced Crochet –
 Perfect for crafters ready to level up their skills.
Teen Artventure –
Inspiring creativity through hands-on projects.
Learn to Swim –
Essential water safety and confidence-building for all ages.
Cheer Camp –
High-energy instruction for spirited young athletes.
Dance Camp –
Movement, rhythm, and fun in every class.
Tennis & Golf –
Skill-building and friendly competition in classic summer sports.
Track & Field –
Speed, strength, and stamina for kids and teens.
Image courtesy of The City of McAllen

Follow the link below to view or download the activity guide

“Our team has created a dynamic and inclusive schedule that truly offers something for everyone,” said Carina Jimenez, Deputy Director of McAllen Parks & Recreation. “Whether your child wants to learn to swim, sing their heart out, or pick up a new sport or craft, this is their chance to do it in a fun, safe, and welcoming environment.”

Registration is still open for many programs, but spots fill quickly. To explore the full list of offerings and sign up, visit www.mcallenparks.net or follow @mcallenparks on social media for the latest updates and features.

Make it a summer to remember: explore, create, play, and grow with McAllen Parks & Recreation!

Capital One Completes Acquisition of Discover

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Capital One Completes Acquisition of Discover
“This deal brings together two innovative, mission-driven companies that together are poised to deliver breakthrough products and experiences to consumers, businesses, and merchants,” said Richard D. Fairbank, Founder and CEO of Capital One. Image for illustration purposes
“This deal brings together two innovative, mission-driven companies that together are poised to deliver breakthrough products and experiences to consumers, businesses, and merchants,” said Richard D. Fairbank, Founder and CEO of Capital One. Image for illustration purposes

Texas Border Business

Texas Border Business

MCLEAN, Va.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–May 18, 2025– Capital One Financial Corporation (NYSE: COF) announced that it has completed its acquisition of Discover Financial Services.

“This deal brings together two innovative, mission-driven companies that together are poised to deliver breakthrough products and experiences to consumers, businesses, and merchants,” said Richard D. Fairbank, Founder and CEO of Capital One.

“I am particularly grateful for the leadership and partnership of Discover’s Board of Directors, its Executive Management Committee, and interim CEO Michael Shepherd. Their advocacy for Discover and its customers, and our shared commitment to a successful closing were instrumental in achieving today’s milestone. Through the efforts of thousands of associates across Capital One and Discover, we are well-positioned to continue our quest to change banking for good for millions of customers,” added Fairbank.

Capital One announced on February 19, 2024, that it had entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Discover. The acquisition was approved by the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System and the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency on April 18, 2025, and by the Delaware State Bank Commissioner on December 18, 2024. Stockholders of Capital One and Discover voted in favor of the deal on February 18, 2025.

In connection with the acquisition, Capital One expanded its Board of Directors from 12 to 15 and appointed Thomas G. Maheras, Michael Shepherd, and Jennifer L. Wong, each a member of Discover’s former Board of Directors, to serve on the Capital One Board of Directors.

At this time, Capital One and Discover customer accounts and banking relationships remain unchanged. Customers will be provided with comprehensive information in advance of any forthcoming changes. Until then, customers do not need to take any action and will continue to be served through their respective Capital One and Discover customer tools and channels.

Capital One intends to continue to offer Discover credit card products as Discover-branded cards alongside the other consumer cards currently offered by Capital One. The Discover®, PULSE®, and Diners Club International® networks will join our suite of offerings.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250517147002/en/

Mayor Villalobos Urges Balanced Immigration Reform

Roberto H. Gonzalez
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Mayor Villalobos Urges Balanced Immigration Reform
Mayor Javier Villalobos during a recent video address. (Image from City of McAllen video presentation)
Mayor Javier Villalobos during a recent video address. (Image from City of McAllen video presentation)

Texas Border Business

By Roberto Hugo González

In a recent video message shared on social media, McAllen Mayor Javier Villalobos commended federal officials and the current administration for their work on border security while urging them to take further steps toward practical immigration reform.

“As Mayor of the City of McAllen, I want to express my sincere gratitude to our federal officials and the current administration for their diligent efforts to secure the southern border,” Villalobos stated. He highlighted a significant decline in illegal border activity, saying, “Thanks to the administration’s actions, unlawful border crossings are at a 10-year low, and our national security continues to increase.”

Villalobos framed these developments as a turning point for local governments along the border. “Border cities are once again able to focus on providing a high quality of life for our residents and visitors through promoting arts and culture, and bolstering economic development instead of implementing federal immigration policy,” he said. He added, “Thank you for reclaiming what should have always been a federal issue.”

While supportive of continued enforcement, Villalobos called for a shift in policy focus toward economic integration. “It is also my duty to ensure that we provide our communities with every opportunity for success,” he said. “Therefore, I urge the federal government to explore options for lawful employment for all law-abiding people in the United States.”

Calling for a more pragmatic approach, he emphasized, “Let us not let the perfect be the enemy of the good.” Villalobos advocated for separating employment authorization from the broader citizenship debate, arguing that “there should be pathways to employment now and let the federal government discuss citizenship later.”

He positioned the issue as a matter of national economic interest. “The ambitious goal of large-scale economic growth led by significant industrial expansion cannot be met without the human capital and talent necessary to turn a shared vision into a prosperous reality.”

Villalobos also reinforced McAllen’s unique geographic and cultural role in the region. “McAllen is a destination city and will continue to invest in projects that add to its unique position as an economic and cultural hub between the United States and Mexico, Central America, and South America.” He pointed out that “McAllen’s binational relationship with Mexico and the visitors who purchase, eat, work, and invest in our city remain integral to the region’s long-term success and the ability of the United States to attain its goals of growing our economy.”

Villalobos struck a balance between the need for border control and preserving cross-border commerce and culture. “As the federal government stems the flow of unlawful migration, we must not halt the flow of commerce, culture, friendship, and hospitality. Working together, we can keep this growth of McAllen, our great state of Texas, and the United States strong now and into the future.”

Follow the link below to watch the video of the mayor’s address:

https://www.facebook.com/McAllenTX/videos/2467873833568841

See related story:

Trump Protests Sweep the Rio Grande Valley

Trump Protests Sweep the Rio Grande Valley

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Trump Protests Sweep the Rio Grande Valley
Protesters held signs outside the McAllen Federal Building during the RGV No Kings Protest on June 14, 2025. Eric Holguin’s Facebook account shared the photo, which captures a moment of peaceful demonstration against former President Trump’s policies and immigration enforcement actions. This image is used under fair use for purposes of commentary and reporting. All rights belong to the original content creator. 

Texas Border Business 

Protests erupted across the Rio Grande Valley on June 14, 2025, as part of a larger nationwide movement known as “No Kings Day.” The coordinated demonstrations targeted former President Donald Trump’s policies, with additional focus on immigration enforcement and perceived authoritarianism. Thousands of participants across McAllen, Harlingen, Brownsville, and other Texas cities gathered to oppose what organizers described as an erosion of democratic norms. 

In McAllen, demonstrators assembled in the morning and again in the evening along 10th Street and old Business 83 in front of the Federal Building. The events were peaceful but heavily monitored by law enforcement, including local police and the Hidalgo County Sheriff’s Office. A helicopter flew over the protest areas, apparently conducting surveillance. TBB could not identify which branch of the government it belonged to or whether it was a government unit. Protesters held signs opposing Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids and chanted against Trump’s proposed military parade, which coincides with both the Army’s 250th anniversary and his birthday. 

Harlingen hosted a morning rally that aligned with McAllen’s protest themes, while in Brownsville, smaller demonstrations joined the regional effort. In Laredo, residents participated in an afternoon protest at Jett Bowl North, where organizers condemned recent ICE activity and accused Trump of encouraging authoritarian tactics. 

Eric Holguin. This image is used under fair use for purposes of commentary and reporting. All rights belong to the original content creator. Facebook posting 

The Texas State Director at UnidosUS, Eric Holguin was among the many participants at the Rio Grande Valley demonstrations. In a Facebook post following the event, Holguin wrote: 

“MAGA is not patriotic. MAGA does not own what being American is. Patriots and Americans don’t give in to kings, dictators, or authoritarians. I’m an American and a patriot and joined nearly 2,000 others today in McAllen to fight for our communities, our country, and our future.” 

San Antonio drew one of the largest crowds in the state, with thousands marching through downtown in a peaceful procession that featured music, speeches, and community leaders. In Houston, over 15,000 people gathered at City Hall in protest. A Trump piñata, symbolic signs, and calls for democracy were seen throughout the crowd. Suburban demonstrations were also reported in Sugar Land and Conroe. 

The “No Kings Day” events spanned all 50 states and over 2,000 cities. According to organizers, the nationwide campaign aims to reject President Trump’s “king-like” behavior and promote a recommitment to constitutional principles. 

On June 13, 2025, The Epoch Times reported that the U.S. Congress is calling on billionaire philanthropist George Soros and tech entrepreneur Neville Singham to testify regarding allegations of funding left-wing riots and radical political organizations. Representative Anna Paulina Luna announced that both men will be asked to appear before Congress to address questions about financial links to unrest connected with these protests and related movements. 

The investigations come during rising political tensions, as lawmakers and citizens debate the boundaries between political dissent, protest funding, and public safety. The connection between the demonstrations and external support remains under scrutiny as federal inquiries unfold. 

See related story:

Mayor Villalobos Urges Balanced Immigration Reform
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