The Edinburg Police Department has arrested 24-year-old Viridiana Nieto in connection with the February death of her two-month-old infant daughter. Image courtesy of The City of Edinburg. Bgd for illustration purposes
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EDINBURG, Texas – The Edinburg Police Department has arrested 24-year-old Viridiana Nieto in connection with the February death of her two-month-old infant daughter.
On Monday, February 10, 2025, at approximately 6:20 p.m., officers were dispatched to the 500 block of S. Raul Longoria to assist EMS with an unresponsive infant. Upon arrival, officers found the two-month-old girl unresponsive. Also present at the scene were the child’s mother and two other children, ages 1 and 4. The infant was transported by EMS to Edinburg Children’s Hospital, where she was pronounced dead a short time later.
An extensive investigation by Edinburg Police revealed that the mother, Viridiana Nieto, had reportedly been on a drug binge and had allegedly slept most of the day.
The investigation led to multiple charges being filed against Nieto, including:
• Criminally Negligent Homicide
• Endangering a Child
• Possession of a Controlled Substance (THC vape pens)
• Possession of Marijuana
A warrant was issued for Nieto’s arrest on April 21. Authorities later learned she was in Fort Worth, and with the assistance of the U.S. Marshals Service, she was located and taken into custody on May 6. Nieto was formally arraigned on May 15. Bond was set at $1 million for criminally negligent homicide, $500,000 for endangering a child, $25,000 for possession of a controlled substance, and $7,500 for possession of marijuana.
The Edinburg Police Department extends its gratitude to the U.S. Marshals Service and all agencies involved in securing this arrest.
During the first quarter, US Gross Domestic Product (GDP) fell for the first time since we began emerging from the pandemic. It wasn’t a huge amount – just a 0.3% drop on an annualized basis – yet it was a sharp contrast to the 2.4% gain observed during the previous quarter. Image for illustration purposes
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Dr. M. Ray Perryman, President and Chief Executive Officer of The Perryman Group. Courtesy Image
During the first quarter, US Gross Domestic Product (GDP) fell for the first time since we began emerging from the pandemic. It wasn’t a huge amount – just a 0.3% drop on an annualized basis – yet it was a sharp contrast to the 2.4% gain observed during the previous quarter. Let’s dig a little deeper.
The formal definition of GDP is the market value of all final goods and services produced in a year. While certainly not perfect, it is the most common measure of economic performance, thus informing myriad public- and private-sector decisions. It is typically calculated by adding consumer spending, investment, government spending, and net exports (exports minus imports).
The primary reason for the decrease was a surge in imports as firms began to stockpile to beat the onset of tariffs. (Note that trade statistics are often revised as more data is processed; thus, the numbers could change, but not the essential pattern.) Many retailers and manufacturers accumulated goods in anticipation of higher costs once levies were implemented. This increase in imports brought a corresponding decrease in overall GDP. A second, less significant factor was a drop in government spending. These factors were almost offset by improvements in investment (partly spending for inventory as tariffs loomed), consumer spending, and exports.
Fortunately, there remains some underlying strength in the economy despite this minor dip, reflected in both consumption and the job market. If the tariff malaise is not resolved soon, however, far bigger risks lie ahead. With pauses in place, some of the fallout is currently being mitigated, but if the threatened tariffs actually go into effect and are sustained, there will be significant harm. We have estimated that the proposed levies would, if maintained, cause losses of trillions of dollars in output and millions of jobs.
Signs of what could happen are already appearing, and disruptions are ongoing. Consumer and business sentiment have plummeted to historic lows, ports are seeing major drops in activity, US debt is under pressure from investors and rating agencies, and reports of shortages and price increases are surfacing. The uncertainty is also detrimental, as there have been over 50 changes in tariff policies since January.
What the US does best is produce high-quality, high-value, high-tech goods and sell them to the world. If we continue to break down supply chains, escalate costs, and otherwise thwart that process, the inevitable result will be lower demand for US goods on international markets and higher domestic prices.
One negative blip in GDP is not catastrophic, particularly given that we came into 2025 with significant strength, momentum, and resilience. Nonetheless, it’s a stark reminder of the importance of productive approaches to global trade policy. Stay safe!
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Dr. M. Ray Perryman is President and Chief Executive Officer of The Perryman Group (www.perrymangroup.com), which has served the needs of over 3,000 clients over the past four decades.
“Texas is the No. 1 state in the nation for job creation because Texas moves at the speed of business,” said Governor Abbott. Image for illustration purposes
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AUSTIN — Governor Greg Abbott announced that Texas as the No. 1 state in the nation for job creation, adding more new jobs last month and over the last year than any other state. Under Governor Abbott’s leadership, Texas has added more than 2.5 million jobs since he took office in January 2015.
“Texas is the No. 1 state in the nation for job creation because Texas moves at the speed of business,” said Governor Abbott. “That is why Texas employers have added more than 2.5 million jobs since I’ve been Governor. That’s also why Texas continues to attract more corporate relocations and business expansions than any other state. Last week, I signed into law new pro-growth business legislation to provide business decision makers the certainty that sound business judgments made in the best interest of shareholders will not be second-guessed by courts, building on the progress of the specialty business courts signed into law last session. With continued investments in job training for high-demand industries, Texas will remain the Best State for Business and the best state for job creation for decades to come.”
Texas added the most nonfarm jobs in April at 37,700.
Texas added the most nonfarm jobs from April 2024 to April 2025 at 215,500.
Texas also added the most nonfarm jobs in the nation since Governor Abbott took office in January 2015 with a gain of 2,515,200 jobs.
On Friday, Governor Abbott celebrated Texas setting new records for total jobs, the number of Texans working, and the size of the Texas labor force based on April employment data released by the Texas Workforce Commission. Last week, the Governor also signed into law three critical pieces of pro-growth, business-friendly legislation to boost Texas’ capital market environment and cement Texas as the Best State for Business.
The City of El Paso is proud to announce the appointment of Carolyn Patrick as the City’s new Chief Information Officer (CIO). Image courtesy of The City of El Paso. Bgd for illustration purposes
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EL PASO, Texas – The City of El Paso is proud to announce the appointment of Carolyn Patrick as the City’s new Chief Information Officer (CIO).
A native El Pasoan and dedicated public servant, Carolyn brings more than 25 years of experience in information technology, having served in both federal and local government sectors. She officially assumed her new role this week.
As CIO, Carolyn will coordinate the City’s broad and complex information technology operations and serve as the principal expert advisor on strategic technological initiatives, infrastructure modernization, digital services, and innovation.
Carolyn has been a member of the City of El Paso team since 2012 and has served in several key leadership roles, including IT Operations Program Manager, Project Management Office Manager, Assistant Director of IT, and most recently, Deputy Chief Information Officer.
Throughout her career with the City, Carolyn has led numerous enterprise application projects and high-impact initiatives. She has been instrumental in streamlining internal processes, improving project management practices, and strengthening collaboration across departments. Her leadership has supported the City’s recognition as a top ten Digital Cities Survey Award recipient for cities with populations of 500,000 or more, multiple times since 2019.
“Carolyn’s deep technical expertise, commitment to service, and strong leadership make her an exceptional choice to lead our Information Technology team,” said City Manager Dionne Mack. “Her strategic vision will help the City advance digital transformation and continue delivering reliable, secure, and innovative services to our community.”
Carolyn holds a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Information Systems and a Master’s degree in Computer Information Resources. She is a certified Project Management Professional and is experienced in Lean Six Sigma methodologies.
For more information about the City of El Paso’s Department of Information Technology Services, visit www.ElPasoTexas.gov.
Governor Greg Abbott was sworn into the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Review Council and participated virtually in the first public meeting of the Council to discuss the future of FEMA and its emergency response capabilities. Image for illustration purposes
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AUSTIN — Governor Greg Abbott was sworn into the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Review Council and participated virtually in the first public meeting of the Council to discuss the future of FEMA and its emergency response capabilities.
During his opening remarks, Governor Abbott thanked President Donald J. Trump for creating the FEMA Review Council to streamline emergency response and effectively assist communities who have been impacted by disasters. The Governor pointed out that Texas experiences a wide variety of disasters, from fires in the Panhandle to hurricanes along the coast. In times of disaster, Texas leads emergency response efforts and coordinates with local, state, and federal partners to ensure Texans receive the support and resources needed to rebuild and recover. Additionally, Governor Abbott mentioned that he looks forward to ongoing collaborative efforts with the Trump Administration to empower states to be the primary emergency response team for their local communities during a disaster.
Last month, President Trump appointed Governor Abbott to the FEMA Review Council, a bipartisan group tasked with reforming and streamlining the nation’s emergency management and disaster response system.
On January 24, President Trump issued an Executive Order establishing the Council to Assess the Federal Emergency Management Agency. The goal of the FEMA Review Council is to advise the President on the existing ability of FEMA to capably and impartially address disasters occurring within the United States and on all recommended changes related to FEMA to best serve the national interest.
Image from the PowerPoint provided by David Marquez, “Texas-Mexico Automotive Supercluster (TMASC) Progress, Prospects and Policies for Future Success,” issued in March 2024. Marquez is the Executive Director of Economic and Community Development for Bexar County in San Antonio, Texas.
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The Texas-Mexico Automotive Supercluster (TMASC) is a rapidly growing area that spans both Texas and northern Mexico. It’s a key part of the automotive industry, attracting major companies and investments to the region, and has a direct impact on Bexar County, especially San Antonio. The supercluster includes over 14 vehicle assembly plants and several major corporate headquarters, making it one of North America’s most important automotive hubs.
Image from the PowerPoint provided by David Marquez, “Texas-Mexico Automotive Supercluster (TMASC) Progress, Prospects and Policies for Future Success,” issued in March 2024. Marquez is the Executive Director of Economic and Community Development for Bexar County in San Antonio, Texas.
Over the past decade, TMASC has attracted over $10 billion in investments, resulting in the creation of thousands of jobs in the automotive manufacturing sector. Approximately 170,000 new jobs have been created within the region, with a substantial number located in Bexar County alone. These jobs are not just for skilled workers—they also provide training opportunities for residents, equipping people with the skills necessary to succeed in the expanding automotive industry.
Several large companies are part of TMASC, including well-known names like Toyota, Tesla, BMW, and Kia. Tesla’s Gigafactory in Austin, just a short distance from San Antonio, is one of the newest additions to the area. Other companies such as General Motors, Caterpillar, and Navistar have also expanded their operations here. These companies have established plants and headquarters, contributing to the region’s status as a strong contender for future automotive investments.
The economic impact of TMASC is significant. The region contributes approximately $18 billion to the local economy, with manufacturing accounting for a significant portion of that. Automotive manufacturing is not just about building cars; it also supports thousands of suppliers and service industries, from parts manufacturers to logistics companies. In addition to direct manufacturing jobs, TMASC has also helped establish a strong supplier network, attracting Tier 1 and Tier 2 suppliers to support the major automotive companies in the region.
Looking ahead, the future of TMASC in Bexar County is bright. The area is well-positioned for growth, especially as the shift toward electric vehicles (EVs) and clean energy becomes more prominent. Companies are investing in electric vehicle production, and the region is already home to several important EV manufacturing plants. As more companies focus on sustainability, Bexar County could attract even more green energy investments, further boosting job creation and economic growth.
This article is based on a presentation by David Marquez, Executive Director of Economic and Community Development for Bexar County in San Antonio, Texas. Marquez delivered a detailed analysis during the Texas-Mexico Automotive Supercluster (TMASC) Regional Economic Development Meeting held on Monday, May 19, 2025, at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV) Center for Innovation and Commercialization in Weslaco. The event brought together economic developers, local officials, industry leaders, and workforce professionals to explore the evolution of advanced manufacturing in Texas and northern Mexico.
In conclusion, the TMASC supercluster is a vital part of Bexar County’s economic future. It has already created tens of thousands of jobs and attracted some of the world’s biggest automotive companies. With ongoing investments in technology, clean energy, and workforce training, the region will continue to grow, offering even more opportunities for local residents and future generations. The automotive industry in Bexar County is here to stay, and its potential is just beginning to unfold.
On May 19th, 2025, deputies from the Fayette County Sheriff’s Office (FCSO) conducted a vehicle stop on a Ford F-250 hauling a flatbed trailer loaded with round hay bales. When inconsistencies emerged during questioning, FCSO reached out to the Border Patrol’s Sector Intelligence Unit for assistance. Image for illustration purposes
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EDINBURG, Texas – The Rio Grande Valley Sector Intelligence Unit (RGV SIU) provided crucial real-time intelligence to local law enforcement that led to the disruption of a human smuggling operation in Fayette County, Texas.
On May 19th, 2025, deputies from the Fayette County Sheriff’s Office (FCSO) conducted a vehicle stop on a Ford F-250 hauling a flatbed trailer loaded with round hay bales. When inconsistencies emerged during questioning, FCSO reached out to the Border Patrol’s Sector Intelligence Unit for assistance.
After the RGV SIU provided intelligence to the FCSO, deputies conducted a more thorough search of the vehicle and trailer, discovering hidden compartments within the hay bales concealing 13 illegal aliens.
The driver of the F-250, a U.S. citizen was taken into custody by FCSO and charged with Smuggling of Persons. The vehicle and trailer were seized by local authorities. The illegal aliens will be processed accordingly.
“This collaborative effort demonstrates how intelligence sharing between federal and local law enforcement agencies can effectively combat transnational criminal organizations,” said Gloria Chavez, Chief Patrol Agent of the Rio Grande Valley Sector. “The partnership developed by our intelligence teams with local and state authorities is proving invaluable in disrupting smuggling corridors.”
U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) introduced the Universal School Choice Act. The bill allows for up to $10 billion annually in dollar-for-dollar federal tax credits for individuals and businesses that contribute to nonprofit scholarship granting organizations supporting students’ educational opportunities. Image for illustration purposes. Cruz: Public Domain
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WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) introduced the Universal School Choice Act. The bill allows for up to $10 billion annually in dollar-for-dollar federal tax credits for individuals and businesses that contribute to nonprofit scholarship granting organizations supporting students’ educational opportunities. It builds on previous legislation filed by Sen. Cruz, the Education Freedom Scholarships and Opportunity Act. The bill is designed to enhance universal school choice and options for every child, regardless of where they live.
Sen. Cruz said, “School choice is the civil rights issue of the 21st century. Every child in America deserves access to a quality education that meets their individual needs, regardless of race, ethnicity, income, or zip code. I remain committed to leading this fight until universal school choice has become available to every American, and I call upon my colleagues to expeditiously take up and advance this legislation.”
The Texas Public Policy Foundation supports this bill.
Mandy Drogin, Campaign Director at the Texas Public Policy Foundation, “Senator Ted Cruz has been leading the fight for educational freedom and parental rights across America for many years. His bold leadership in advancing the Universal School Choice Act is a game changer — this bill empowers every family, regardless of income or zip code, to choose the best educational path for their children. Senator Cruz understands that true education reform starts with putting parents in the driver’s seat, and his unwavering commitment to school choice is a powerful example for leaders nationwide.”
Companion legislation was introduced in the House by Reps. Burgess Owens (R-Utah-4) and Byron Donalds (R-Fla.-19).
Rep. Owens said, “Every child, not just the lucky few in the right zip code, deserves access to a world-class education that meets their unique needs. The Universal School Choice Act is an expanded opportunity for all Americans to invest directly in the future of our children. This bill empowers parents to choose the educational environment that best suits their child’s needs and abilities. It delivers a robust wish list to those who believe in parental choice. I’m grateful to Senator Cruz for his partnership.”
Rep. Donalds said, “Education is one of the fundamental building blocks for the path to success. For too long, Americans of all backgrounds have been the victim of an archaic, ineffective, and unproductive public school system. It is well passed time break up the public school monopoly, open up competition amongst schools and let American families take control of their children’s educational destiny. I’m proud to work with Senator Cruz and Congressman Owens on brining universal school choice and educational freedom to American families everywhere.”
Senator Cruz has been the leading voice in the Senate on school choice and for parental rights in education.
Sen. Cruz authored and passed into law the Student Opportunity Amendment as part of the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. This amendment expanded 529 College Savings Plans to include K-12 elementary and secondary school tuition for public, private, and religious schools. It was at the time and remains the most far-reaching federal school choice legislation ever passed.
Sen. Cruz filed the Education Freedom Scholarships and Opportunity Act in 2019, 2021 and 2023. The bill would create a federal tax credit for taxpayers who donate to scholarship organizations supporting post-secondary workforce education, including trade schools and apprenticeship programs, and K-12 education. This bill focuses on making quality schooling and workforce education more affordable than ever for all Americans.
U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) issued a statement following the passing of his No Tax on Tips Act in the U.S. Senate with a vote of 100-0. This bipartisan legislation will exempt tips from being subject to taxation under the federal income tax. Image for illustration purposes
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WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) issued a statement following the passing of his No Tax on Tips Act in the U.S. Senate with a vote of 100-0. This bipartisan legislation will exempt tips from being subject to taxation under the federal income tax.
Sen. Cruz said, “President Trump made a promise to the American people that he would eliminate taxes on tips. In Congress, I formed a bipartisan, bicameral coalition to get that done, and in the Senate introduced the No Tax on Tips Act. Today, I went with Senator Rosen to the floor to secure Senate passage of the bill. This legislation will have a lasting impact on millions of Americans by protecting the hard-earned dollars of blue-collar workers, the very people who are living paycheck-to-paycheck. I urge my colleagues in the House to pass this important bill and send it to the President’s desk to be signed into law.”
BACKGROUND
The bill exempts “cash tips”—cash, credit and debit card charges, and checks—from federal income tax by allowing taxpayers to claim a 100% deduction at filing for tipped wages. The updated text includes guardrails to ensure only traditionally tipped employees will benefit from No Tax on Tips.
Sen. Cruz has consistently prioritized tax cuts and job access:
Sen. Cruz helped enact historic tax reform in 2017, which gave a tax cut to virtually every taxpayer in America. It reduced taxes on small businesses, farmers, ranchers, and job producers, which has helped bring jobs to Texas.
He has fought to make permanent the 2017 historic tax cuts for individuals.
Sen. Cruz also helped pass the USMCA trade agreement, which was signed by President Trump, a decisive victory for Texas farmers, ranchers, businesses, and manufacturers.
For his efforts to support Texas businesses large and small, Sen. Cruz received the U.S. Chamber of Commerce’s prestigious “Spirit of Enterprise” award.
This much-anticipated event, that represents years of work in the making, will take place on Friday, May 23, 2025, at 1:00 PM at 2577 W. Highway 83, Rio Grande City, Texas. Image: Public Domain. Person for illustration purposes
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Rio Grande City, Texas – The Starr County Industrial Foundation (SCIF) is thrilled to announce the official grand opening and ribbon-cutting ceremony for the newest McDonald’s in Rio Grande City. This much-anticipated event, that represents years of work in the making, will take place on Friday, May 23, 2025, at 1:00 PM at 2577 W. Highway 83, Rio Grande City, Texas.
“We are confident that this new franchise will further drive economic growth in the area, serving as a catalyst for additional development in the heart of Starr County,” said Rose Benavidez, president of the SCIF. “Investors recognize the potential of this community, and through our ongoing collaborations with the City of Rio Grande City, RGC Economic Development Corporation (RGCEDC), and Starr County, we look forward to transforming these opportunities into reality.”
The grand opening celebration welcomes the entire community to enjoy a festive afternoon filled with family-friendly activities, interactive games, and exciting prize giveaways. Whether you’re a longtime McDonald’s fan or visiting for the first time, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Join us as we officially open the doors to the newest McDonald’s in Starr County—where great food, fun, and community spirit come together!
What: McDonald’s Grand Opening & Ribbon Cutting Ceremony
Where: McDonald’s, 2577 W. Highway 83, Rio Grande City, TX 78582
When: Friday, May 23, 2025
Time: 1:00 PM
Information Source: Starr County Industrial Foundation
