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Seat Belts Only Work If You Wear Them

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Seat Belts Only Work If You Wear Them
– It doesn’t matter who you are. It doesn’t matter what you do. Everyone needs to buckle up. The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) is working with law enforcement to remind Texas drivers to wear their seat belt every ride, every time. Image courtesy of TxDOT

Texas Border Business

AUSTIN – It doesn’t matter who you are. It doesn’t matter what you do. Everyone needs to buckle up. The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) is working with law enforcement to remind Texas drivers to wear their seat belt every ride, every time. 

First responder learns life lesson

In May 2023, Polk County Sheriff’s Deputy Caleb Boyer rushed to the scene of an emergency without pausing to buckle his seat belt. He was responding to a call. He swerved to avoid hitting a pickup truck pulling an unlit trailer and that’s when his car went off the highway, goingairborne and rolling over twice. Not buckled in, he was ejected several feet from his patrol vehicle. He lost his left leg and almost lost his life.

“This experience has definitely changed my perspective. No one is invincible,” Boyer said. “Now, every time I get in any vehicle, I always make sure to buckle up. And I’ve taught my 9-year-old son to do the same.”

Seat belts save lives

Most Texans buckle up, yet too many crashes turn deadly because someone wasn’t wearing a seat belt. In 2024, 1,069 people who died in collisions on Texas roads were not buckled up.Nearly 60% of these fatalities occurred at night.

“We all think a crash will never happen to us, but it can happen any time we get in a vehicle,” TxDOT Executive Director Marc Williams said. “A seat belt can save your life or prevent a serious injury, but only if you’re wearing it. Take those quick seconds to buckle your seat belt everytime, day and night.”

What TxDOT is doing

TxDOT’s annual Click It or Ticket campaign aims to save lives by getting drivers and passengers to wear their seat belt 100% of the time. To reach that goal, TxDOT is conducting a statewide public education campaign and partnering with law enforcement agencies to step up enforcement of seat belt laws from May 19 through June 1. This includes focusing efforts on ticketing drivers who fail to buckle up or secure their kids in car seats.

Texas law requires everyone in a vehicle to buckle up or face fines and court costs up to $200. Children younger than 8 years old must be in a child safety seat or booster seat unless they’re taller than 4 feet 9 inches. If they aren’t properly restrained, the driver faces fines up to $250plus court costs.

Image courtesy of TxDOT

The results

No one wants to be pulled over, but the objective is to save lives and prevent injuries. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimates that the Click It or Ticket initiative in Texas has saved more than 8,200 lives, prevented 148,000 serious injuries and resulted in $33 billion in economic savings since its inception in 2002.

The Click It or Ticket campaign is an important part of TxDOT’sDrive like a Texan: Kind. Courteous. Safe. initiative.Drive like a Texan is about embracing the pride, camaraderie and responsibility of being a Texan on the road. By making thoughtful choices, we can all help keep each other safe. Learn more at DriveLikeATexan.com. 

STC Construction Supervision Celebrates Largest Graduating Class in Program History

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STC Construction Supervision Celebrates Largest Graduating Class in Program History
More than 25 students from South Texas College’s Construction Supervision program received certificates and associate degrees on May 10, according to faculty who say the program has more than doubled its course sections and has seen an 187% increase in growth over the same time period in 2024. STC image
More than 25 students from South Texas College’s Construction Supervision program received certificates and associate degrees on May 10, according to faculty who say the program has more than doubled its course sections and has seen an 187% increase in growth over the same time period in 2024. STC image

Texas Border Business

By Joey Gomez

McALLEN, Texas – South Texas College’s Construction Supervision program graduated its largest group of students during STC’s May commencement ceremony thanks in part to the continued efforts of faculty and the support of its partners in industry.

More than 25 students from the program received certificates and associate degrees earlier this month according to Construction faculty who say the program has more than doubled its course sections and has seen an 187% increase in growth over the same time period in 2024.

“This milestone is a testament to the strength and relevance of the Construction Supervision program. Graduating our largest class to date reflects not only the hard work of our students, but also the dedication of our faculty and the growing confidence of industry partners in the quality of our graduates,” said Construction Supervision Department Chair Javier Reyes. “These students are stepping into critical roles in the field, and we couldn’t be prouder of what they’ve accomplished.”

Construction Supervision faculty also recently celebrated 20 of its students who received more than $7,000 in scholarships and tools.

LP Building Solutions awarded $5,000 to 14 students and Brex Commercial Door awarded eight tool kits, worth $250 each for a total of $2,000, to students earning their associate or certificate in the program.

 “The Construction Supervision program has done such a great job and it’s evident that the program does everything it can for students,” said Ruby Melgoza, office manager with Brex. 
“We like that we can be a part of that and to witness the increase of students who are looking to join this industry. It’s growing and we are glad to see that, and we look forward to seeing it continue to expand.” 

Israel Medrano, faculty with STC’s Construction Supervision program said its partnerships with companies like Brex have led to more support for the program which in turn has led to an increase in apprenticeships as well as scholarships for students, which has piqued interest in the program.

“We’re working to continue the progress and meeting with our advisory partners to allow us to visit their job sites and enable internships for our students, which can then lead to full-time careers,” Medrano said. “This has led to more support for the program including scholarships for students. We continue to grow, and I have a lot of people who are still calling to partner with us, which is what the students need. It’s the students who need the help.”

STC student Jasson Alvarez said he graduated with a certificate in the Construction Supervision Program and looks forward to entering the industry with knowledge on running a job site.

“This program has become a great resource that has helped me learn how to run a job site and construction project as well as how to manage the people,” Alvarez said. “It’s all about where to go, how to build it and address mistakes, and most importantly learning how to work as a team to build something great.”

Another graduate, Jan Mireles said he will now takes his knowledge outside of the Valley in order to gain experience in the field before returning to STC in the future in order to learn how to establish his own roofing company.

“This program has helped me network as well as meet new people and learn new things that will help me in the field. I’ve had the opportunity to build while I was here, which has been the greatest thing as I look into what’s ahead in the future. We help each other in this program to get better,” Mireles said. “I prefer working in roofing because that’s what I’m good at. I would love to come back to STC in the future and continue my education. I would just like some experience in the field first. I would like to learn more about all the safety regulations that will help me with the roofing company I plan to start in the future.”

For more information on STC’s Construction Supervision program visit www.southtexascollege.edu/academics/construction/.

Abbott Signs Pro-Growth Business Legislation into Law

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Abbott Signs Pro-Growth Business Legislation into Law
Governor Greg Abbott signed three critical pieces of pro-growth, business-friendly legislation into law, including Senate Bill 29 that codifies the business judgment rule in Texas, during a bill signing ceremony at the Texas Capitol. Photo: Office of The Governor
Governor Greg Abbott signed three critical pieces of pro-growth, business-friendly legislation into law, including Senate Bill 29 that codifies the business judgment rule in Texas, during a bill signing ceremony at the Texas Capitol. Photo: Office of The Governor

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AUSTIN — Governor Greg Abbott signed three critical pieces of pro-growth, business-friendly legislation into law, including Senate Bill 29 that codifies the business judgment rule in Texas, during a bill signing ceremony at the Texas Capitol. Passed during the 89th Regular Legislative Session, these new laws will boost Texas’ capital market environment and cement Texas as the Best State for Business. 

“Texas is the reigning and undisputed champion for doing business in the United States of America,” said Governor Abbott. “There is a difference between becoming a champion and repeating as a national champion year after year. To remain at the highest level requires constant innovation and improvement, and that is what we constantly work at to keep Texas as the best business climate in America. Senate Bill 29 provides business decision makers the certainty that sound business judgments made in the best interest of shareholders will not be second-guessed by courts. Business decisions are to be made by the elected officers and shareholders, not by unelected judges. These three laws will solidify our status as the best state for doing business for many years to come.”

The Governor was joined by Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick, Speaker Dustin Burrows, TXSE Group Inc. Founder, Chairman and CEO James Lee, Texas Association of Business (TAB) President and CEO Glenn Hamer, and other business and legislative leaders.

Governor Abbott signs the bills into law. Photo: Office of The Governor

Watch the Governor’s full bill signing here. 

“The Texas economy is stronger than ever because our conservative, pro-growth policies provide a predictable low-regulation environment for companies to do business,” said Lieutenant Governor Patrick. “Senate Bill 29, which the Senate and I prioritized, continues the Texas Miracle by attracting new companies to our state. Senate Bill 29 and the other bills Governor Abbott signed into law today solidify Texas’ dominant position in the global economy and will bring even more prosperity to Texans.”

“Texas is globally renowned for innovation and economic opportunities, and with these new measures, we are solidifying our place as America’s premier business destination,” said Speaker Burrows. “This session, the Texas Legislature worked to bolster our state’s business-friendly reputation by providing certainty for businesses and investors so that every Texan feels the benefit of our thriving economy. I look forward to seeing these new laws attract more investments and opportunities to Texas and thank Governor Abbott, Lieutenant Governor Patrick and my colleagues in the legislature for securing a promising financial future for Texans.”

“Thanks to the dedication of our state leadership and legislators, Texas will now be the No. 1 choice for corporate registrations and relocations, as well as the premier destination for securities listings,” said Mr. Lee. “Our state is truly becoming the center of gravity for American capitalism.”

“This is the trifecta,” said Mr. Hamer. “These bills that are being signed today will absolutely keep Texas as the best state in the nation for jobs and to invest. We should be proud as Texans today, that we have more finance jobs than the state of New York. It is an honor to be in the best place in the world for job creation on this festive day.” 

Senate Bill 29 (Hughes/Meyer) codifies the business judgment rule and reforms derivative claims processes. It also creates a mechanism to pre-assess corporate director independence. 

Senate Bill 1058 (Parker/Capriglione) creates a franchise tax exemption for stock exchanges operating in Texas for certain tax liabilities. 

House Joint Resolution 4 (Meyer/Parker) is a constitutional ban on a stock exchange transaction tax and an occupations tax. 

STC Expands Cooper Center to Better Serve The Fine Arts Community

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STC Expands Cooper Center to Better Serve The Fine Arts Community
The Cooper Center for Performing Arts at South Texas College is undergoing a major expansion, a long-time goal for the college that is finally coming to fruition and was recently celebrated with a groundbreaking ceremony among college administration, Board of Trustees, students, faculty, staff and community partners. STC image
The Cooper Center for Performing Arts at South Texas College is undergoing a major expansion, a long-time goal for the college that is finally coming to fruition and was recently celebrated with a groundbreaking ceremony among college administration, Board of Trustees, students, faculty, staff and community partners. STC image

Texas Border Business

By Amanda Sotelo

The Cooper Center for Performing Arts at South Texas College is undergoing a major expansion, a long-time goal for the college that is finally coming to fruition and was recently celebrated with a groundbreaking ceremony among college administration, Board of Trustees, students, faculty, staff and community partners.

“As we break ground on a project that has been several years in the making, we celebrate that we will finally have our performing arts programs – Theatre, Dance and Music together, under one roof. The Fine arts are a vital component of a higher education,” said STC Vice President and Provost for Academic Affairs and Economic Development Anahid Petrosian, Ph.D. “I thank our Board of Trustees, the leadership of our administration for the continued support and advocacy that made this possible.”

The $8.4 million project expands STC’s Cooper Center, originally built in 2008, by 14,520 square feet, which will provide state-of-the-art facilities that will include studio offices, music classrooms, music and percussion rehearsal spaces, practice rooms and an adaptable music venue.

With this expansion, which is expected to be completed by 2026, Petrosian describes the Cooper Center as more than just a performance space.

“It is home to the arts at STC,” she said. “It’s a space where students, musicians, dancers and performers can learn, rehearse, collaborate and share their work with the community.

Except for the Theatre program, which is mostly housed in the Cooper Center, the Music and Dance programs are currently located at STC’s Pecan Plaza and STC’s Humanities Building, and the Percussion program uses two portable buildings.    

STC Dean for Liberal Arts Christopher Nelson, Ph.D., said that the groundbreaking marks a momentous step forward and explained that the expansion consists of two phases: northwest and northeast.

“The northwest expansion will be built to accommodate rehearsal spaces for large ensembles, including an 80-person orchestra, small ensembles, numerous classrooms practice rooms, numerous lockers and storage space,” explained Nelson. “The northeast expansion will house the entirety of the Percussion Department, which includes a drumline room and faculty studio. There will also be a new dance studio for our Dance program.”

Nelson went on to explain that this large project will allow the departments to not only function, but flourish.

“With these new expanded facilities, we’ll be able to better serve and recruit performing art students and better educate and prepare them for their artistic journey. Our students and faculty deserve a world-class facility, and this expansion is bringing that to STC.”

The expansion will also bring potentially newfound partnerships. The new rehearsal area is currently being considered as a possible rehearsal space for the Valley Symphony Orchestra.

STC President Ricardo J. Solis, Ph.D., said the new and improved Cooper Center will be a multipurpose building for STC and the community at large.

“This unique addition to the college will accommodate our students, to learn and grow, and professionals in our community to continue sharing the arts among our resident of the RGV. These are exciting times, and we thank our Board of Trustees, and everyone involved in this project for their vision and dedication in making this a reality,” said Solis. “Additionally, we want to thank our taxpayers, for giving us this opportunity to expand our Fine Arts facilities, so we can continue to support our musicians, dancers and stage artists. STC’s Cooper Center is, and will continue to be, the place where creativity begins.”

The Cooper Center groundbreaking is the first of two such events that will happen this month. The next groundbreaking is scheduled on May 28 for the college’s brand-new Continuing Education building.

For more information on STC’s Dance, Theatre and Music programs, visit southtexascollege.edu

Take Precautions as Summer Heat Arrives Early

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Take Precautions as Summer Heat Arrives Early
As temperatures begin to rise earlier than expected, the City of McAllen is reminding residents to take necessary precautions to protect themselves and others from the dangers of extreme heat. Image for illustration purposes
As temperatures begin to rise earlier than expected, the City of McAllen is reminding residents to take necessary precautions to protect themselves and others from the dangers of extreme heat. Image for illustration purposes

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As temperatures begin to rise earlier than expected, the City of McAllen is reminding residents to take necessary precautions to protect themselves and others from the dangers of extreme heat.

Heat-related illnesses can strike quickly, particularly among vulnerable populations such as young children, older adults, and individuals who spend extended time outdoors. With the early arrival of summer conditions, city officials encourage everyone to stay informed and take proactive steps to stay safe.

Tips for staying safe during extreme heat:
Hydrate: Drink plenty of water throughout the day, even if you do not feel thirsty.
Limit outdoor activities: Take frequent breaks in the shade or stay indoors, especially during peak heat hours.
Wear light clothing: Choose loose-fitting, breathable fabrics to help your body stay cool.
Never leave children or pets in vehicles: Temperatures inside a parked car can become dangerously high within minutes.
Know the signs of heat exhaustion: Symptoms include dizziness, nausea, excessive sweating, and headaches. If you experience any of these, seek shade, drink water, and cool off immediately.

In response to the increased heat risks, the City of McAllen announces the following locations as seasonal cooling centers to provide residents with needed relief from the hot weather. 

McAllen Public Library, 4001 N 23rd St, McAllen, TX 78504, (956) 681-3000
Mon–Thu: 9:00 a.m.–9:00 p.m.; Fri–Sat: 9:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.; Sun: 1:00 p.m.–9:00 p.m.
Lark Community Center, 2601 Lark Ave, McAllen, TX 78504, (956) 681-3340
Mon–Thu: 8:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m.; Fri: 8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.; Sat: 9:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m.
Las Palmas Community Center, 1921 N 25th St, McAllen, TX 78501, (956) 688-3350
Mon–Fri: 8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
Palmview Community Center,3401 Jordan Rd W, McAllen, TX 78503, (956) 681-3360
Mon–Thu: 8:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m.; Fri: 8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.; Sat: 9:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m.

“We want to ensure that our community is prepared and informed as we face higher temperatures,” said McAllen Emergency Management Coordinator Jeff Johnston. “Let’s beat the heat and take care of ourselves and each other.”

Residents are encouraged to follow the City of McAllen’s social media pages and website for further updates, safety information, and resources throughout the summer.

De La Cruz Statement on Passage of Agriculture Reconciliation Bill

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De La Cruz Statement on Passage of Agriculture Reconciliation Bill
I will continue working to eliminate waste and abuse while protecting programs that are vital to South Texans." - Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz
I will continue working to eliminate waste and abuse while protecting programs that are vital to South Texans.” – Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz

Texas Border Business

WASHINGTON – Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz (TX-15) released the statement below following the committee passage of the Agriculture Budget Reconciliation Bill.

“Today, the House Agriculture Committee passed our portion of the one, big beautiful bill that invests in American farmers, strengthens the farm safety net, and delivers for all Americans. The legislation will implement positive reforms to SNAP to ensure benefits are sustained for those who truly need them. I will continue working to eliminate waste and abuse while protecting programs that are vital to South Texans.” – Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz

Texas Senate Advances $8 Billion School Funding Plan

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Texas Senate Advances $8 Billion School Funding Plan
The plan allocates $4.2 billion for teacher pay raises, offering up to $10,000 annually for experienced educators in small districts. Additional funds include $1.3 billion for special education, $677 million for early reading and math programs, $500 million for school safety, and $300 million for small and rural districts. Image for illustration purposes
The plan allocates $4.2 billion for teacher pay raises, offering up to $10,000 annually for experienced educators in small districts. Additional funds include $1.3 billion for special education, $677 million for early reading and math programs, $500 million for school safety, and $300 million for small and rural districts. Image for illustration purposes

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Texas Border Business

The Texas Senate has proposed an $8 billion school funding package that prioritizes teacher compensation and targeted educational initiatives. The plan allocates $4.2 billion for teacher pay raises, offering up to $10,000 annually for experienced educators in small districts. Additional funds include $1.3 billion for special education, $677 million for early reading and math programs, $500 million for school safety, and $300 million for small and rural districts.

The proposal also introduces expanded merit-based pay systems, free pre-K education for children of teachers, and new investments in teacher certification and professional development. These measures aim to address teacher shortages and improve educational outcomes, particularly in underserved and rural communities.

However, the plan has drawn criticism for its limited increase to the basic allotment—the per-student funding amount guaranteed by the state. While the Texas House had proposed a $500 increase, the Senate plan raises the allotment by only $55. Critics argue that this minor adjustment fails to account for rising inflation and growing operational costs faced by school districts.

In terms of teacher pay, the Senate’s plan offers varying raises based on district size and teacher experience. Educators with 3-4 years of experience in districts with 5,000 or fewer students would receive a $5,000 raise, while those with five or more years would earn $10,000. In larger districts, teachers with 3-4 years of experience would receive a $2,500 raise, while those with five or more years of experience would receive a $5,500 raise.

The proposal comes amid ongoing debates over school vouchers. Following the passage of Senate Bill 2, which allocates taxpayer funds to private and parochial schools, attention has shifted to House Bill 2, a proposed $7 billion funding package aimed at boosting Texas public schools. Critics argue that the voucher legislation was prioritized at the expense of essential public education funding.

Rural school districts stand to benefit significantly from the proposed funding. Struggling with aging infrastructure and chronic budget deficits, face significant financial challenges. The Senate plan prioritizes significant teacher raises in districts with fewer than 5,000 students, aiming to remedy the state’s historically low per-student spending and support rural schools in addressing administrative burdens, teacher recruitment, and operational costs.

As negotiations continue between the House and Senate, school districts across Texas await clarity on the level of support they can expect to receive in the coming academic year.

You can access the official text of Texas House Bill 2 (HB 2) for the 89th Regular Legislative Session directly through the Texas Legislature Online portal. The bill, authored by Representative Buckley, focuses on public education and school finance reforms. 

https://capitol.texas.gov/tlodocs/89R/billtext/html/HB00002I.htm?utm_source=chatgpt.com

To view the full text of HB 2, including its introduced version and any subsequent amendments or analyses, please visit the following link:

https://capitol.texas.gov/billlookup/text.aspx?Bill=HB2&LegSess=89R

Trump’s Executive Order on Birthright Citizenship Faces Legal Showdown

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Trump’s Executive Order on Birthright Citizenship Faces Legal Showdown
On January 20, 2025, President Donald Trump signed Executive Order 14160, titled “Protecting the Meaning and Value of American Citizenship.” The order seeks to change the current interpretation of the 14th Amendment by denying automatic U.S. citizenship to children born in the country if neither parent is a U.S. citizen nor a lawful permanent resident. Image for illustration purposes
On January 20, 2025, President Donald Trump signed Executive Order 14160, titled “Protecting the Meaning and Value of American Citizenship.” The order seeks to change the current interpretation of the 14th Amendment by denying automatic U.S. citizenship to children born in the country if neither parent is a U.S. citizen nor a lawful permanent resident. Image for illustration purposes

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Texas Border Business

On January 20, 2025, President Donald Trump signed Executive Order 14160, titled “Protecting the Meaning and Value of American Citizenship.” The order seeks to change the current interpretation of the 14th Amendment by denying automatic U.S. citizenship to children born in the country if neither parent is a U.S. citizen nor a lawful permanent resident.

The policy reinterprets the phrase “subject to the jurisdiction thereof” in the Citizenship Clause of the 14th Amendment. It states that children born to undocumented immigrants or individuals holding temporary visas, such as students or tourists, are not entitled to citizenship by birth. The order applies to births occurring on or after February 19, 2025.

Legal challenges were filed immediately by civil rights organizations, immigration advocates, and attorneys general from 22 states. These lawsuits argue that the executive order contradicts the 1898 Supreme Court decision in United States v. Wong Kim Ark, which held that nearly all individuals born in the United States are citizens, regardless of their parents’ legal status.

Several federal judges have issued preliminary injunctions halting the implementation of the order, calling it likely unconstitutional. These rulings warn that the policy could create a class of stateless children and interfere with systems that depend on birthright citizenship for documentation and services.

The Trump administration has appealed these decisions, and the Supreme Court is scheduled to hear consolidated arguments on May 15, 2025. While the Court will consider the scope of lower courts’ authority to block federal policies, the core of the case involves the constitutional meaning of citizenship under the 14th Amendment.

A recent NPR/Ipsos poll shows that fewer than one-third of Americans support ending birthright citizenship. Analysts estimate that the executive order, if upheld, could affect more than 150,000 births annually and have long-term legal and social consequences.

The Supreme Court’s forthcoming decision will likely have a profound impact on U.S. immigration policy and constitutional law related to citizenship rights.

Father & Son Graduate Together Marking Triumph Over Autism & Adversity

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Father & Son Graduate Together Marking Triumph Over Autism & Adversity
For Arturo Martinez and his son David Austin Martinez, their journey to earning Automotive Technology Certificates from South Texas College was about turning challenges into opportunities and proving that success can come at any age, under any circumstance. STC image
For Arturo Martinez and his son David Austin Martinez, their journey to earning Automotive Technology Certificates from South Texas College was about turning challenges into opportunities and proving that success can come at any age, under any circumstance. STC image

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By Veronica Salinas

For Arturo Martinez and his son David Austin Martinez, their journey to earning Automotive Technology Certificates from South Texas College was about turning challenges into opportunities and proving that success can come at any age, under any circumstance. 

David began his college journey independently in 2020. However, the shift to online learning during the COVID-19 pandemic proved challenging.

“I took a break during the COVID-19 pandemic because I could not do online school,” David explained. “Once I decided to start up again, he wanted to join me.”

That “he” was David’s father, who enrolled in the same program to support his son who is on the autism spectrum and learn a new trade himself at 53-years-old. 

“My main reason for enrolling in college was to help my son,” Arturo said. “He was having a difficult time transitioning and I didn’t want him to give up. I was scared, but I had to show him that anything is possible and autism shouldn’t stop him from pursuing a college certificate or degree. He is capable of anything just like anyone else. Yes, it took us longer to finish, but we did it and we did it together.”

They both pursued certificates in automotive technology and attended the same classes after Arturo got out of work. The journey was not easy, but their bond and commitment carried them through. 

“We leaned on each other for support,” Arturo said. “We studied together and worked on our own vehicle when things needed fixing. When we didn’t understand things, David would ask questions to our professors.”

David’s determination, paired with his father’s unwavering support, kept him moving forward.

“At first, I started on my own, and my journey wasn’t easy,” David said. “He decided to join me because I felt like quitting many times and he wasn’t going to let me be a quitter. This shared experience has meant a lot. It has shown me that I am capable of anything even if it takes me a little while longer to accomplish.”

The experience was equally meaningful for Arturo.

“It’s been a journey, but I had a blast,” he said. “The best part was working on cars together and walking across the stage side-by-side at graduation.”

Their academic milestone did not come without its sacrifices. Arturo juggled full-time work, classes and family responsibilities, often getting home late at night. One of the hardest parts was missing his daughter’s extracurricular events. 

“It was an adjustment for everyone, especially one of my daughters who also has autism,” he said. “There were nights I didn’t get home until 9:30 p.m., but I was determined to show David and my other children that it’s never too late to go after your goals. We studied together and leaned on each other for support every step of the way. I was determined to prove to my children that hard work and sacrifice pay off.”

With their certificates in hand, Arturo and David plan to look for work in the automotive field, with hopes of one day opening a small mechanic shop together.

Arturo encourages other parents to consider taking the leap and going back to school, no matter the age or circumstance.

“It’s never too late. If you’ve never attended college or want to go back to pursue something that will benefit you and your family, go for it. It will all be worth it and they’ll see it’s never too late to chase something better.”

David credits his father for helping him believe in himself and considers him his greatest inspiration and advocate.

“The one thing I’ve learned from my dad is to never give up and keep following my dreams. Thank you for everything you did to help me succeed. Even though I have autism, anything is possible—not just for me, but for everyone else.”

This father-son duo not only earned a certificate, but they’ve also created a powerful legacy of love, resilience and shared purpose.

Governor Announces NTxBio Facility in Plano

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Governor Announces NTxBio Facility in Plano
Governor Greg Abbott announced that NTxBio (“NTx”) will establish a biomanufacturing facility in Plano. The project will create over 170 new jobs and more than $31 million in capital investment. A Texas Enterprise Fund (TEF) grant of $1,479,000 has been extended to NTx. Logo: Public Domain. Bgd for illustration purposes
Governor Greg Abbott announced that NTxBio (“NTx”) will establish a biomanufacturing facility in Plano. The project will create over 170 new jobs and more than $31 million in capital investment. A Texas Enterprise Fund (TEF) grant of $1,479,000 has been extended to NTx. Logo: Public Domain. Bgd for illustration purposes

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AUSTIN – Governor Greg Abbott announced that NTxBio (“NTx”) will establish a biomanufacturing facility in Plano. The project will create over 170 new jobs and more than $31 million in capital investment. A Texas Enterprise Fund (TEF) grant of $1,479,000 has been extended to NTx.

“Texas is the epicenter for groundbreaking, life-saving medical research and home to thousands of biotech and life science firms,” said Governor Abbott. “This $31 million investment by NTx establishing a biomanufacturing facility in Plano will create over 170 new, good-paying jobs for Texans in our skilled and growing life sciences workforce. I congratulate NTx on their leading efforts to advancing the healthcare industry in Texas with their next generation biomanufacturing solutions. Working together, we will keep Texas on the cutting edge of biotech research and development and save more lives.”

NTx was founded in 2015 and manufactures pharmaceutical-grade raw materials for use in development of RNA and protein therapeutics.

Read the full story at:

Governor Announces NTxBio Facility in Plano
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