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Texas Southmost College Celebrates 100% Passing Rate & Job Placement for 2025 DMS Class

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Texas Southmost College Celebrates 100% Passing Rate & Job Placement for 2025 DMS Class
Pictured together in celebration are: Guadalupe Lopez – Hired at Valley Baptist Medical Center Harlingen, Deyra Vaquera – Hired at Valley Regional Medical Center, Laura Zubieta – Hired at Valley Regional Medical Center, Sara Olivarez – Hired at Knapp Medical Center and RGV Vascular and Vein Institute, Ashley Contreras – Hired at Harlingen Medical Center, Jose Velasco Jr. – Hired as a Cardiac Sonographer at Valley Regional. Image courtesy of TSC
Pictured together in celebration are: Guadalupe Lopez – Hired at Valley Baptist Medical Center Harlingen, Deyra Vaquera – Hired at Valley Regional Medical Center, Laura Zubieta – Hired at Valley Regional Medical Center, Sara Olivarez – Hired at Knapp Medical Center and RGV Vascular and Vein Institute, Ashley Contreras – Hired at Harlingen Medical Center, Jose Velasco Jr. – Hired as a Cardiac Sonographer at Valley Regional. Image courtesy of TSC

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BROWNSVILLE, TX – A moment of pride and joy filled the halls of Texas Southmost College (TSC) this May as seven determined students from the Diagnostic Medical Sonography (DMS) Program crossed the stage to receive their Associate of Applied Science in Diagnostic Medical Sonography (AAS in DMS). Behind their smiles is a story of resilience, rigorous training, and a program with a longstanding commitment to excellence, community service, and student success.

“Our students leave TSC workforce-ready, highly skilled, and already in demand,” said Texas Southmost College Program Director for the Diagnostic Medical Sonography Program Dr. Ariel I. Villanueva. “The TSC DMS Program is the only CAAHEP Accredited program in the Rio Grande Valley and the only one South of Corpus Christi, Texas.” “Students want to graduate from an accredited program because it allows them to challenge the ARDMS certification exams immediately upon graduation, an essential step for employment in the field.”

Training Across the RGV

TSC’s Diagnostic Medical Sonography graduates earned their success through dedication and rigorous training. 

TSC’s Diagnostic Medical Sonography graduates earn their success through dedication and rigorous training that takes place over the course of 18 months. During this time, students complete four semesters of clinical rotations at top medical facilities throughout the Rio Grande Valley, from Brownsville to Edinburg. These immersive, real-world experiences expose students to diverse specialties and healthcare settings, and it equips them with the hands-on skills and confidence needed long before they walk across the graduation stage.

A Community-Driven Mission

Beyond hospital walls, the DMS program also extends its impact by providing free sonograms for pregnant women from the community, an initiative that has been running since 2004. This service allows students to refine their scanning skills while offering expecting mothers complimentary ultrasound images as a thank-you for their participation.

“This is a win-win for everyone,” added Dr. Villanueva. “Our students gain critical practice, and our community benefits from an invaluable service.” Expectant mothers can participate by contacting Janet Hernandez at (956) 295-3731 or janet.hernandez@tsc.edu. Appointments can also be arranged via the program’s Facebook page atFacebook.com/SonographyProgram.

Looking to the Future

With this chapter closed, the program is already looking ahead. The next cohort begins in Fall 2025, and applications are due by the last working day of May 2025.

“We currently have eight 2nd-year students on track to graduate in May 2026,” Dr. Villanueva noted. “If you’re looking for a high-demand, accredited healthcare career close to home, our TSC DMS program is the gold standard in the region.”

As the Spring 2025 class moves forward, they carry not only the weight of their achievement, but the hopes of future patients and a thriving community that believes in them.

From Left to Right: Meet the Class of Spring 2025


All seven students have secured employment before graduation, maintaining TSC’s proud tradition of 100% Passing Rate and 100% job placement for DMS graduates.

Texas Cyber Command Passes Texas Legislature

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Texas Cyber Command Passes Texas Legislature
Governor Greg Abbott celebrated the Texas Legislature passing House Bill 150, which will create the Texas Cyber Command to leverage the cybersecurity expertise and resources of state, local, and federal partners in San Antonio to protect against cyber threats. Image for illustration purposes
Governor Greg Abbott celebrated the Texas Legislature passing House Bill 150, which will create the Texas Cyber Command to leverage the cybersecurity expertise and resources of state, local, and federal partners in San Antonio to protect against cyber threats. Image for illustration purposes

Texas Border Business

AUSTIN – Governor Greg Abbott celebrated the Texas Legislature passing House Bill 150, which will create the Texas Cyber Command to leverage the cybersecurity expertise and resources of state, local, and federal partners in San Antonio to protect against cyber threats. 

“As cyberattacks increase in significance and sophistication across the globe, it is critical that Texas utilize cutting-edge capabilities to secure our state,” said Governor Abbott. “The creation of the Texas Cyber Command has never been more critical. Threats from China, Iran, Russia, and other foreign enemies are growing. President Donald Trump empowered states to more effectively prepare for cyberattacks and defend our infrastructure, and Texas is ready to harness our assets to protect our power, water, and communications. I thank Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick, Speaker Burrows, Senator Tan Parker, Representative Giovanni Capriglione, and members of the Texas Legislature for advancing this legislation to enhance our cybersecurity capabilities, which I will immediately sign into law. Texas will safeguard its critical infrastructure to protect Texans and Americans from hostile foreign actors and hackers.”

In his 2025 State of the State Address earlier this year, Governor Abbott declared Texas Cyber Command an emergency item this legislative session.

In the last year, Governor Abbott issued five directives to Texas state agencies to protect Texans from the People’s Republic of China (PRC) and the Chinese Communist Party (CCP):

Prohibiting the use of artificial intelligence and social media apps affiliated with the PRC and CCP on government-issued devices.

Directing all state agencies and public institutions of higher education to harden state systems and safeguard critical infrastructure, intellectual property, and personal information from being accessed.

Directing DPS to target and arrest any criminals executing CCP influence operations like “Operation Fox Hunt” to forcibly return dissidents to China.

Directing the Texas Division of Emergency Management and Public Utility Commission of Texas to prepare for potential threats against Texas’ critical infrastructure.

Directing Texas state agencies to fully divest from China.

McAllen Independence Day Celebration Invites Community to Participate 

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McAllen Independence Day Celebration Invites Community to Participate 
The City of McAllen is getting ready for this year’s McAllen Independence Day Celebration, presented by H-E-B, and is inviting the community to take part in all of the patriotic festivities. Courtesy image
The City of McAllen is getting ready for this year’s McAllen Independence Day Celebration, presented by H-E-B, and is inviting the community to take part in all of the patriotic festivities. Courtesy image

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The City of McAllen is getting ready for this year’s McAllen Independence Day Celebration, presented by H-E-B, and is inviting the community to take part in all of the patriotic festivities.  The 97th Annual Independence Day Celebration will take place on Friday, July 4,2025 with an early morning 4K race, a patriotic program, immediately followed by the Main Street Parade and then Freedom Festival, a family-friendly festival held at Archer Park.  Music, food, and games will be highlights of the events.  The event will conclude with the H-E-B Concert in the Sky Fireworks Extravaganza.  

Courtesy image

The deadline to submit an application for an entry in this year’s Main Street Parade is right around the corner and organizers are encouraging civic and youth groups, nonprofit organizations, and especially, veterans and veterans’ groups to participate in the parade and other festivities. 

“We encourage everyone to come together and help us celebrate America’s 250th birthday together as a community by participating in the Main Street Parade and enjoying all of the day’s festivities,” said Denny Meline, McAllen Parks & Recreation Department Director. “The McAllen Parks & Recreation Department will be unveiling some unique, festive, and patriotic floats this year and we hope this year’s entries reflect the excitement of being able to celebrate.”

All entries should feature a patriotic theme. Entries should fit into one of the following categories: antique vehicles; marching/walking; color guard; vehicle club; float; horses; band; or pageant.  For more guidelines and information, please see entry application.

Entries for businesses are $250 and non-profits can enter at no cost as long as a 501 C(3) is provided.

Entry forms for the parade are available by request by emailing pardmarketing@mcallen.net, calling the office at 956-681-3320,or stopping by the McAllen Parks & Recreation Office at 2001 Trophy Drive.  The deadline for parade entries is Friday, June 13, 2025.  There will be a parade entry meeting with all participants the week before the event.

The parade will step off from Houston Avenue at McAllen City Hall and travel north along Main Street until Beech Avenue.  For more information, visit www.mcallenparks.net or follow the McAllen Parks & Recreation Department on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram @mcallenparks. 

The day will kick off with an Independence Day 4K Run starting at 7:00 a.m. The City of McAllen Parks & Recreation Department has partnered with Team Red, White and Blue, a national veterans’ organization whose mission it is to enrich the lives of America’s veterans by connecting them to their community through physical and social activity.  The race is part of the McAllen Marathon Scott Crane Running Series and runners who complete all four of the races and a race on Marathon Day will receive a series medal.  Registration is open at www.mcallenmarathon.com and the registration fee is $35. Awards in different age categories will be presented at the race.

Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board Appointed by Governor

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Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board Appointed by Governor
Governor Greg Abbott has appointed eight student regents to their respective universities, effective June 1, 2025, for terms set to expire on May 31, 2026. Additionally, the Governor appointed a student representative to serve on the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, effective June 1, 2025, for a term set to expire on May 31, 2026. UT Image: Larry D. Moore, CC BY 4.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0>, via Wikimedia Commons. A&M Image: Donnie Ray Jones, CC BY 2.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0>, via Wikimedia Commons
Governor Greg Abbott has appointed eight student regents to their respective universities, effective June 1, 2025, for terms set to expire on May 31, 2026. Additionally, the Governor appointed a student representative to serve on the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, effective June 1, 2025, for a term set to expire on May 31, 2026. UT Image: Larry D. Moore, CC BY 4.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0>, via Wikimedia Commons. A&M Image: Donnie Ray Jones, CC BY 2.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0>, via Wikimedia Commons

Texas Border Business

AUSTIN – Governor Greg Abbott has appointed eight student regents to their respective universities, effective June 1, 2025, for terms set to expire on May 31, 2026. Additionally, the Governor appointed a student representative to serve on the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, effective June 1, 2025, for a term set to expire on May 31, 2026.

Texas A&M University System

Jaquavous Doucette of Fort Worth, originally from Orlando, Florida, is pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Mass Communications from Prairie View A&M University.

Texas Southern University

Kohl Crawford of Garland is pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Texas Southern University.

Texas State University System

Donavan Brown of San Marcos is pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering and Computer Science from Texas State University.

Texas Tech University System

Eli Heath of Lubbock is pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering from Texas Tech University.

Texas Woman’s University

Alyssa Flores of Fort Worth received a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology from Texas Woman’s University (TWU) and is pursuing a Doctor of Physical Therapy from TWU.

University of Houston System

Adrian Caraves of Galveston received an Associate of Science from the College of the Mainland and a Bachelor of Science in Health from the University of Houston (UH). He is pursuing a Master of Business Administration and Master of Healthcare Administration from the UH-Clear Lake.

University of North Texas System

Hayden Wochele of Waxahachie received an Associate of Science in General Studies from Navarro College. He is pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from the University of North Texas-Dallas.

University of Texas System

Luke Schwartz of Tyler received an Associate of Science in Biology from Tyler Junior College and a Bachelor of Science in Nutrition from Texas A&M University. He is pursuing a Doctor of Medicine from The University of Texas (UT) at Tyler School of Medicine and an Executive Master of Business Administration in Healthcare Management from UT Tyler. Additionally, he served in the U.S. Air Force.

Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board

Lisa Cantu of Mission received a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and a Master of Public Service and Administration from Texas A&M University (TAMU). She is pursuing a Doctor of Philosophy in Education Administration from TAMU.

CBP Officers Stop Cocaine Smuggling Attempt at Ysleta Port

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CBP Officers Stop Cocaine Smuggling Attempt at Ysleta Port
U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers working at the Ysleta port of entry seized 20.1 pounds of cocaine May 28. The drugs were hidden in a vehicle being driven by a 22-year-old male U.S. citizen. USCBP image
U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers working at the Ysleta port of entry seized 20.1 pounds of cocaine May 28. The drugs were hidden in a vehicle being driven by a 22-year-old male U.S. citizen. USCBP image

Texas Border Business

EL PASO, Texas – U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers working at the Ysleta port of entry seized 20.1 pounds of cocaine May 28. The drugs were hidden in a vehicle being driven by a 22-year-old male U.S. citizen.

“The combination of officer experience, canine enforcement, tools and technology all play a role in stopping drugs at our ports of entry,” said CBP Ysleta Port Director Arnie Gomez. “This case illustrates how the various layers of enforcement CBP employs are an effective strategy in stopping contraband at the border.”

The events leading to the seizure began just before 9 a.m. when a 2015 Dodge Ram with a single male occupant arrived from Mexico. A CBP officer working at the primary inspection booth selected the vehicle for a secondary exam after a low energy portal scan revealed anomalies in the appearance of the truck. A CBP drug sniffing dog also alerted to the presence of narcotics during a sweep of traffic as vehicles were approaching the primary inspection area.

A nonintrusive x-ray scan of the car confirmed the presence of anomalies in the firewall and dashboard area of the truck. CBP officers continued their exam and removed eight bundles from the hidden compartment. The contents of the packages tested positive for cocaine.

CBP officers arrested the man. He was turned over to Homeland Security Investigations special agents to face 21 U.S. Code § 952 – importation of controlled substances charges.

Websites Selling Hacking Tools to Cybercriminals Seized

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Websites Selling Hacking Tools to Cybercriminals Seized
According to the affidavit filed in support of these seizures, authorities made undercover purchases from seized websites and analyzed the services, confirming they were designed for cybercrime. Image for illustration purposes
According to the affidavit filed in support of these seizures, authorities made undercover purchases from seized websites and analyzed the services, confirming they were designed for cybercrime. Image for illustration purposes

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

HOUSTON – A coordinated effort involving an international disruption of an online software crypting syndicate which provides services to cybercriminals to assist them with keeping their malicious software (malware) from being detected has resulted in the seizure of four domains and their associated server, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.

Crypting is the process of using software to make malware difficult for antivirus programs to detect. The seized domains offered services to cybercriminals, including counter-antivirus (CAV) tools. When used together, CAV and crypting services allow criminals to obfuscate malware, making it undetectable and enabling unauthorized access to computer systems.

Image courtesy of US Attorney’s Office Southern

According to the affidavit filed in support of these seizures, authorities made undercover purchases from seized websites and analyzed the services, confirming they were designed for cybercrime. Court documents also allege authorities reviewed linked email addresses and other data connecting the services to known ransomware groups that have targeted victims both in the United States and abroad, including in the Houston area.  

“Modern criminal threats require modern law enforcement solutions,” said Ganjei. “As cybercriminals have become more sophisticated in their schemes, they have likewise become more advanced in their efforts to avoid detection. As such, our law enforcement efforts must involve striking not just at the individual fraudster or hacker, but the enablers of these cybercriminals as well. This investigation did exactly that. With this syndicate shut down, there is one less provider of malicious tools for cybercriminals out there.”

“Cybercriminals don’t just create malware; they perfect it for maximum destruction,” said FBI Houston Special Agent in Charge Douglas Williams. “By leveraging counter antivirus services, malicious actors refine their weapons against the world’s toughest security systems to better slip past firewalls, evade forensic analysis, and wreak havoc across victims’ systems. As part of a decisive international operation, FBI Houston helped cripple a global cyber syndicate, seize their most lethal tools, and neutralize the threat they posed to millions around the world.”

The seizures occurred May 27 in coordination with Finnish and Dutch national police as part of Operation Endgame, a multinational law enforcement initiative targeting the dismantling of malware cybercriminal services. Participating countries include the United States, The Netherlands, France, Germany and Denmark with additional support from Ukraine and Portugal.  

The FBI Houston Field Office is conducting the investigation with the cooperation and significant assistance of law enforcement partners in The Netherlands and Finland and U.S. Secret Service.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys (AUSA) Shirin Hakimzadeh and Rodolfo Ramirez are prosecuting the case. AUSA Kristine Rollinson is handling the seizure aspects of the case. 

Updated May 30, 2025

Jury Convicts Illegal Alien of Stealing U.S. Citizen’s Identity

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Jury Convicts Illegal Alien of Stealing U.S. Citizen’s Identity
A 38-year-old Mexican citizen has been found guilty of illegally reentering the United States under an assumed identity. Image for illustration purposes
A 38-year-old Mexican citizen has been found guilty of illegally reentering the United States under an assumed identity. Image for illustration purposes

Texas Border Business

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

HOUSTON, Texas – A 38-year-old Mexican citizen has been found guilty of illegally reentering the United States under an assumed identity.

The jury deliberated for four hours before convicting Jose Martin Valdez-Galvan following a two-day-trial.

On June 11, 2024, authorities found Valdez-Galvan in Laredo. At that time, he provided a false name and claimed to be a U.S. citizen. Valdez-Galvan originally stole the person’s identity to avoid previous charges for unauthorized use of a motor vehicle.

Testimony revealed Valdez-Galvan was an illegal alien who had been previously removed and returned to the United States without permission. He had assumed the other person’s identity in 2015 after his second removal. The jury also heard how fingerprints matched those of Valdez-Galvan.

At trial, Valdez-Galvan testified his name was not Jose Martin Valdez-Galvan. His mother also provided testimony that her son’s name was something else despite evidence she had previously identified him as Valdez-Galvan. 

The defense attempted to question the trustworthiness of the evidence, but the jury was not convinced and found Valdez-Galvan guilty as charged.

“Both public safety and basic common sense require us to know who is entering and residing in our country. Those that adopt false or stolen personas to hide their identities pose an increased criminal risk to our community,” said Ganjei. “Theft of an American citizen’s identity by a foreign national will not be tolerated, and those that engage in such criminality will be charged, punished, and, if appropriate, deported.”

U.S. District Judge Marina Garcia Marmolejo will set sentencing at a later date. At that time, he faces up to 20 years in federal prison and a possible $250,000 maximum fine.

Valdez-Galvan has been and will remain in custody pending sentencing.

Immigration and Customs Enforcement – Enforcement and Removal Operations conducted the investigation with the assistance of Border Patrol. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Bryan L. Oliver and Jay Hileman prosecuted the case.

Updated May 29, 2025

McAllen Police Seek to Arrest Auto Theft Suspect

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McAllen Police Seek to Arrest Auto Theft Suspect
A magistrate in the McAllen Municipal Court determined probable cause is established to issue warrants of arrest for Rodolfo Castillo Jr. for Motor Vehicle Theft, a Third Degree Felony, and Engaging in Organized Criminal Activity, a Second Degree Felony. Image courtesy of McAllen PD. Bgd for illustration purposes
A magistrate in the McAllen Municipal Court determined probable cause is established to issue warrants of arrest for Rodolfo Castillo Jr. for Motor Vehicle Theft, a Third Degree Felony, and Engaging in Organized Criminal Activity, a Second Degree Felony. Image courtesy of McAllen PD. Bgd for illustration purposes

Texas Border Business

McAllen Police Officers are asking the public’s assistance in locating a suspect in a motor vehicle theft investigation. A magistrate in the McAllen Municipal Court determined probable cause is established to issue warrants of arrest for Rodolfo Castillo Jr. for Motor Vehicle Theft, a Third Degree Felony, and Engaging in Organized Criminal Activity, a Second Degree Felony.

Rodolfo Castillo Jr. is suspected to have collaborated with others in the theft of a 2022 Dodge Ram pickup. The Dodge Ram pickup was stolen from the 100 block of South 15th Street in the early morning hours of May 26, 2025.

Rodolfo Castillo Jr. is described as 26 years of age, approximately 5’ 11” in height, approximately 210 pounds, black hair, and brown eyes. Rodolfo Castillo Jr.’s last known address is in San Benito, Texas.

If you know where Rodolfo Castillo Jr. may be located, you are urged to call McAllen Crime Stoppers at (956) 687- 8477.

Anyone with information about this crime is urged to call McAllen Crime Stoppers at 956-687- TIPS (956-687-8477). You can remain anonymous. Information that leads to an arrest may be eligible for a cash reward. You may also submit an anonymous tip through the “P3 Tips” smart phone app.

Information source: McAllen Police Department

STC Dual Enrollment Empowering Students to Become First Responders

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STC Dual Enrollment Empowering Students to Become First Responders
Through South Texas College Dual Credit Fire Academy, made possible by a long-standing partnership with Mission CISD, six graduates are now prepared to enter the fire service, debt-free and ready to serve as future pillars of strength in their community. STC image
Through South Texas College Dual Credit Fire Academy, made possible by a long-standing partnership with Mission CISD, six graduates are now prepared to enter the fire service, debt-free and ready to serve as future pillars of strength in their community. STC image

Texas Border Business

By Selene Rodriguez

For the first time in Hidalgo County history, six high school seniors graduated not only with diplomas, but with hands-on firefighter training already under their belts as South Texas College Dual Credit Fire Academy graduates.

Through this opportunity, made possible by a long-standing partnership with the Mission Consolidated Independent School District (CISD), these graduates are now prepared to enter the fire service, debt-free and ready to serve as future pillars of strength in their community.

From hose handling, forcible entry and search and rescue operations to live fire exercises and scaling a 75-foot ladder, the graduates underwent intense, hands-on training and are now prepared to take the Texas Commission on Fire Protection (TCFP) examination, the final step toward becoming certified. STC image

“It’s incredible. We’re so proud to celebrate this historic achievement,” said STC’s Associate Vice President of Dual Credit Programs and School District Partnerships Rebecca De Leon, Ed.D. “This cohort represents a significant milestone in the success of our Dual Credit Programs and highlights the power of collaboration. These young men are paving the way for future fire science students, and we are excited to see them thrive as they step into the next chapter of their journey in public service.”

In the summer of 2024, while hundreds of incoming seniors enjoyed a well-earned break, a determined group of students chose a different path.

As part of the inaugural cohort of STC’s Dual Credit Fire Academy, these now-graduates began their journey with college-level courses over the summer, followed by a rigorous fall and spring schedule that balanced high school classes in the morning and firefighter training in the afternoon during their senior year.

Offered at no cost through STC and Mission CISD’s partnership and specifically designed to accommodate both high school and college classes, this program represented a life-changing opportunity.

For Mission High School graduate, Angel Uribe, whose dream of becoming a firefighter had been years in the making, the program was a perfect match.

“When I was young, I was in a car accident so serious that my mom had to be extricated from the vehicle,” he shared. “Watching the firefighters help her inspired me.”

The Mission native said that witnessing those first responders in action left a lasting impression and sparked a lifelong goal of helping others.

“I want to help people the way we were helped. I’ve known for a long time that I wanted to be a firefighter, and now, coming full circle, I’ve even learned how to perform extractions and rescue people myself,” he said. “Getting to do this at no cost to me or my family is amazing. I’m really grateful for this opportunity, it’s an honor to be one of the first students to graduate from STC’s Dual Credit Fire Academy.”

Kevin Gonzalez, a graduate of Mission Collegiate High School, shared that sentiment, feeling a strong calling to become a firefighter after being inspired by the bravery and presence of first responders in his community. 

“I grew up watching fire engines pass by, and every time, I’d wonder what it would be like to be on one, out there, helping people,” he said. “When I found out my school offered this program, I felt incredibly lucky. I didn’t hesitate to take the opportunity.”

He recalled a moment early in the program when his counselors and instructors emphasized just how groundbreaking their journey was, one that could inspire other young people to follow in their footsteps. 

“They told us, ‘You’re making history, people will remember this forever,’” Gonzalez said. “I’m really proud to be part of this first cohort and hopefully set an example for other students like us. We started this journey at 16 or 17 and now, at 18, we’re ready to begin our careers. That’s something most students our age don’t get to say.”

From hose handling, forcible entry and search and rescue operations to live fire exercises and scaling a 75-foot ladder, the graduates underwent intense, hands-on training and are now prepared to take the Texas Commission on Fire Protection (TCFP) examination, the final step toward becoming certified firefighters. 

And, guided by the mentorship of the Mission Fire Department throughout the year-round program, they also built professional networks and gained real-world insight that will support them as they enter the field.

“Our partnership with STC continues to be a gamechanger for our students,” said Mission CISD Superintendent Cris Valdez, Ed.D. “The Dual Credit Fire Academy is a powerful example of what’s possible when education meets opportunity.” 

Following the success of this groundbreaking first year, the program has recently announced the launch of a second cohort, welcoming more students from across all Mission CISD high schools and setting a powerful path for future generations to follow.

“Watching our students graduate with their Basic Firefighter Certification, while still in high school, is a testament to their dedication and to the strength of this program,” added Valdez. “We’re proud to be part of this initiative and look forward to expanding its reach as we launch our next cohort.”

Information source: STC

Port of Brownsville Anchors Regional Economy with Billions in Private Investments

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Port of Brownsville Anchors Regional Economy with Billions in Private Investments
From Left to Right: BND Commissioner John Wood, BND Secretary John Reed, BND Commissioner Ernesto Gutierrez, BND Chairman Esteban Guerra, BND Vice Chairman Sergio Tito Lopez, and Port Director and CEO William Dietrich. Image courtesy of The Port of Brownville
From Left to Right: BND Commissioner John Wood, BND Secretary John Reed, BND Commissioner Ernesto Gutierrez, BND Chairman Esteban Guerra, BND Vice Chairman Sergio Tito Lopez, and Port Director and CEO William Dietrich. Image courtesy of The Port of Brownville

Texas Border Business

Port of Brownsville

BROWNSVILLE, Texas – Brownsville Navigation District (BND) Chairman Esteban Guerra announced a record-breaking year for the Port of Brownsville, reporting more than 28 million tons of cargo handled in 2024, the highest volume in the port’s history. The milestone was shared during the 2025 State of the Port Address today at the Brownsville Events Center, in Brownsville, Texas.

Brownsville Navigation District Chairman Esteban Guerra delivers the 2025 State of the Port Address on May 29, at the Brownsville Events Center in Brownsville, Texas, highlighting the port’s economic impact on the region and major private investments underway. Image courtesy of The Port of Brownsville

U.S. Senators John Cornyn and Ted Cruz, along with U.S. Rep. Vicente Gonzalez, TX-34, extended their congratulations to the Port of Brownsville in recognition of its achievements during the 2025 State of the Port Address. Ana Garcia, South Texas regional director for Sen. Cornyn, presented an official letter on his behalf to Chairman Esteban Guerra and Port Director and CEO William Dietrich. Video messages were also shared by Sen. Cruz and Rep. Gonzalez.

“On behalf of the Port of Brownsville and my fellow members of the Brownsville Navigation District, I am proud to share the tremendous progress at the port made possible by the continued support of our community,” said BND Chairman Esteban Guerra. “We are working strategically to expand the port’s capabilities and drive economic growth across the region. While the results are impressive, this is only the beginning.”

Significant private-sector investments continue to fuel economic development at the Port of Brownsville.

Forza Steel is finalizing the construction of an $85 million, 650,000-square-foot facility that will generate more than 600 direct and indirect jobs. Steel manufacturer Ternium is investing $200 million in a new development featuring a marine terminal at the port. The new terminal is expected to boost steel and metal throughput at the port to over 9 million tons annually. 

Texan Cement is expanding its presence at the port with a $42 million investment, shifting operations from import to production. Meanwhile, construction of NextDecade’s Rio Grande LNG project continues to advance, reaching key milestones and staying on schedule.

These investments reflect the port’s growing role as a leader for industrial development, job creation, and economic activity in the Rio Grande Valley.

Key milestones and successes discussed during the 2025 State of the Port Address included:

  • Economic Impact: An economic impact study conducted by Martin & Associate’s demonstrated the Port of Brownsville generated $12 billion in total economic activity in 2023, a 400% increase from 2018. Port-related operations support 66,212 jobs statewide, including 10,028 in the Rio Grande Valley, contributing $1.1 billion to the local economy. Employment tied to port activity produced $3.8 billion in income and spending, while state and local tax revenues totaled $285.3 million, with $79.6 million from maritime operations alone. 
  • Waterborne Cargo Catapults National Ranking: The Port of Brownsville climbed to 41st position among 150 U.S. maritime ports for waterborne cargo tonnage. According to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the port moved over 11.2 million tons of cargo in 2023, a 23% increase from 2022’s 9.1 million tons, up from its previous rank of 50th. Vessel traffic at the port recorded 2,561 vessel calls in 2023, up from 1,754 the previous year, representing a forty-six percent increase. Major commodities driving growth at the port include steel, liquid bulk products, aggregates, and project cargo. 
  • Infrastructure Investment: The Brazos Island Harbord Channel Improvement project to deepen the Brownsville ship channel from 42 to 52 feet is progressing steadily, enhancing navigational capacity and competitiveness for larger vessels and heavier cargo loads. The project, funded through an innovative public private partnership with the Port of Brownsville, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and NextDecade, is on schedule for completion by mid-2026. 
  • Industrial Park Development: Food manufacturer Westa Inc., the first tenant of the Port of Brownsville’s 118-acre business park, is finalizing the layout for its $20 million facilities at the port. Taking advantage of the port’s maritime access, Westa Inc. will receive grains via barge from the Midwest, enhancing the company’s supply chain operations for its high-capacity flour mill and sunflower seed processing plant set to employ 120 people. 
  •  Foreign Trade Zone: Foreign Trade Zone No. 62 at the Port of Brownsville continues to rank among the nation’s top FTZs, placing 3rd for export value at $7 billion in the latest federal report. This marks 12 consecutive years in the top three. FTZ No. 62 also made its first appearance in the top 20 for imports, ranking 14th with $3.2 billion in goods. 
  • Regional Collaboration: Chairman Guerra’s appointment to the RioPlex Board of Directors underscores the port’s growing role in fostering binational economic development across the Rio Grande Valley and northern Tamaulipas. RioPlex is a regional organization committed to bringing economic opportunities to the Rio Grande Valley and northern Tamaulipas.

Information Source; Port of Brownsville

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