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Edinburg North’s Alina Ozuna Wins 2025 Congressional Art Competition

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Edinburg North’s Alina Ozuna Wins 2025 Congressional Art Competition
"In America, We Believe" by Alina Ozuna from Edinburg North High School. Image courtesy of the Office of Congresswoman De La cruz
“In America, We Believe” by Alina Ozuna from Edinburg North High School. Image courtesy of the Office of Congresswoman De La cruz

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WASHINGTON, DC – Congresswoman De La Cruz (TX-15) announced the winner of the 2025 Congressional Art Competition for Texas’s 15th District, Alina Ozuna from Edinburg North High School. Alina’s piece, “In America, We Believe,” was selected from among 55 entries submitted by talented young high school artists across her district.

As the district winner, Alina’s piece will be displayed for one year in the U.S. Capitol alongside winning artwork from other districts across the country.

“I am thrilled to congratulate Alina on this incredible achievement. Her work beautifully captures the ideas of the American Dream, and it will be an inspiring addition to the halls of the nation’s Capitol for all to enjoy. I am proud of all the students who participated, and I hope you all continue to share your passion for creativity.” – Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz

Congresswoman De La Cruz honored Briana Olvera from Edinburg High School with second place for her piece, “I Thank the Women in My Life for Giving Me a Choice,” and Cassandra Pedraza from Edinburg North High School with third place for her piece, “Hard Work, Tender Care”. 
Background:
Every spring, the Congressional Institute sponsors a nationwide high school visual art competition to recognize and encourage artistic talent in the nation and each Congressional District. Since the competition began in 1982, more than 650,000 high school students have participated.

This year’s competition was judged by a panel of local educators from UTRGV’s School of Art and Design, including Director Ed Pogue and Art Instructors Rosie Kane and Ashley Gonzalez.

Retired Air Force Servicemember Begins Mission To Inspire The Next Generation

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Retired Air Force Servicemember Begins Mission To Inspire The Next Generation
After 20 years of dedicated service in the U.S. Air Force, Rosalyn Graham is embarking on a new mission—shaping the minds of the next generation as a preschool educator. STC image
After 20 years of dedicated service in the U.S. Air Force, Rosalyn Graham is embarking on a new mission—shaping the minds of the next generation as a preschool educator. STC image

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By Veronica Salinas

After 20 years of dedicated service in the U.S. Air Force, Rosalyn Graham is embarking on a new mission—shaping the minds of the next generation as a preschool educator. 

Graham graduated on Saturday from South Texas College (STC) with an associate degree in Child Development in Early Childhood Education and said her path to teaching began with a long-standing desire to work with children. 

It wasn’t until she transferred to STC from her local college in Abilene that her true path became clear. Although she had been in the same degree plan, her previous college wasn’t aligned with her career goals and prompted her decision to transfer and pursue the opportunities STC offered.

“I’ve always wanted to work with children, but I didn’t know what age group,” Graham said. “It was when I enrolled at STC that I discovered my passion for early childhood development.” 

Initially pursuing a certificate, Graham soon transitioned into the degree program after realizing the support and expertise of the faculty members was propelling her toward something bigger.

“There’s a high demand for preschool teachers and I saw it as more than just a job, it’s a chance to make a real difference,” she said. “The first five years are critical for a child’s development, and I wanted to be part of the team that builds that foundation.”

Now, as she prepares to apply to child development centers and head start programs in her area, she is eager to make an impact.

“Like several military men and women, we serve our country faithfully and are eager to keep working after retiring from the military,” Graham explained. “I did extensive research and chose this degree because it allows me to make a difference and support children as they prepare for kindergarten and beyond.”

As an online student, Graham praised STC’s dedication to veterans and active-duty military.

“South Texas College is always there for military students and gives them the opportunity to pursue their careers through in-person and online study,” she said. “I’m grateful for the exceptional veteran and military services and for the faculty members who truly care.”

Her academic journey was not without its challenges. Balancing multiple assignments at once proved difficult, but she credits her success to open communication and unwavering support.

“I overcame those challenges by reaching out to my professors,” she said. They supported me every step of the way.”

Graham also expressed gratitude for her support system—her husband, family, friends and the STC faculty who reminded her of her purpose and encouraged her during difficult semesters.

“I am grateful for my support system for reassuring me that God has special plans,” she said. “Thanks to STC, I’m now equipped with the skills and confidence to be an inspirational early childhood preschool teacher.”

She was among the more than 3,700 graduates who proudly took part in our Commencement Ceremony last weekend.

STC celebrates Graham and all military students who continue to serve their communities with courage, purpose and compassion.

Texas DPS & Neighboring States Team Up in Joint Enforcement Operation

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Texas DPS & Neighboring States Team Up in Joint Enforcement Operation
During this collaborative effort, which will take place from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Wednesday, May 14, Troopers will be focused on drivers violating their respective state’s Move Over, Slow Down laws. Photo: Texas DPS
During this collaborative effort, which will take place from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Wednesday, May 14, Troopers will be focused on drivers violating their respective state’s Move Over, Slow Down laws. Photo: Texas DPS

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AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is partnering with the Arkansas State Police, Louisiana State Police, New Mexico State Police and the Oklahoma Highway Patrol to conduct a joint one-day enhanced enforcement operation this week. During this collaborative effort, which will take place from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Wednesday, May 14, Troopers will be focused on drivers violating their respective state’s Move Over, Slow Down laws.

“DPS is proud to join with our neighbors to raise awareness of the importance of Move Over, Slow Downlaws in our respective states,” said Texas DPS Colonel Freeman F. Martin. “Too many law enforcement officers and first responders have lost their lives simply doing their jobs along the side of the road. This multi-state operation is about saving lives—ours and yours. If you see flashing lights, do what’s right: move over or slow down.”

Since Nov. 1, 2017, Texas DPS has had 142 crashes involving stationary DPS patrol vehicles, resulting in 46 Trooper injuries and Two Trooper deaths. 

Move Over or Slow Down

Texas’ Move Over or Slow Down law requires drivers to change lanes or slow down when approaching a vehicle with emergency lights activated, including law enforcement, fire, EMS, Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT), tow trucks and other vehicles.

Specifically, Texas drivers must either vacate the lane closest to the applicable vehicles stopped on the side of the road or slow down 20 mph below the posted speed limit. Remember: you should only move over if you can do so safely and legally. If you cannot move over, slow down.

Violators of the state’s Move Over or Slow Down law can face up to a $1,250 fine for the first offense. Violators who cause bodily injury can be charged with a Class A misdemeanor, resulting in possible jail time and up to a $4,000 fine.

Late last year, Governor Greg Abbott released a public service announcement on Move Over, Slow Down. View Governor Greg Abbott’s Move Over or Slow Down PSA here.

###(HQ 2025-52) 

Workforce Solutions Jobs Update, 5-13-2025

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Workforce Solutions Jobs Update, 5-13-2025
Texas Workforce solutions has the jobs you are looking for. Image for illustration purposes
Texas Workforce solutions has the jobs you are looking for. Image for illustration purposes

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Below you will find our Hot Jobs for this week, all these jobs and many more are available on www.workintexas.com.

US Border Patrol Information Session

Courtesy image

Tuesday, May 13, 2025

9 am – 12 pm

Workforce Solutions Edinburg Office 2719 W. University Dr. Edinburg, TX 78539

https://www.facebook.com/share/19DB3rChhk

Law Enforcement Job Fair

Courtesy image

Wednesday, May 17, 2025

11 am – 2 pm

La Plaza Mall 2200 S. 10th St., McAllen, TX 78503

https://www.facebook.com/share/165iPx3ae1

IDEA Public Schools Class of 2025 Celebrates College Signing Day in the RGV

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IDEA Public Schools Class of 2025 Celebrates College Signing Day in the RGV
 IDEA Public Schools in the Rio Grande Valley will celebrate its graduating classes as they announce their college choices at College Signing Day 2025. Image courtesy of IDEA Public Schools
 IDEA Public Schools in the Rio Grande Valley will celebrate its graduating classes as they announce their college choices at College Signing Day 2025. Image courtesy of IDEA Public Schools

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RIO GRANDE VALLEY, Texas – IDEA Public Schools in the Rio Grande Valley will celebrate its graduating classes as they announce their college choices at College Signing Day 2025. The event will span three days during five different events for various IDEA RGV schools on Wednesday, May 14, Thursday, May 15, and Friday, May 16.The first day will have an afternoon session, while the second and third day will have both a morning event at 9:30 a.m. and an afternoon event at 2 p.m. During College Signing Day, 1789 IDEA seniors will announce for the first time, to their friends, family and community, the college they plan to attend this fall.  

“Across all graduating classes across the district, the Class of 2025 had over 15,900 acceptance letters, with over 8,300 of those acceptances belonging to the Rio Grande Valley students,” said Jeff Cottrill, Ed.D., IDEA Public Schools CEO & Superintendent. “We are thrilled to celebrate our seniors as they take this exciting step toward their future.  We applaud their dedication, resilience, and achievements, and we look forward to seeing the incredible impact they will make in the world.” 

College Signing Day is the culmination of years of hard work and marks a momentous occasion in each IDEA scholar’s academic journey. Students from this year’s graduating classes across the district will accept spots at Boston University, Colgate University, Brown University, University of Pennsylvania, University of Texas at Austin, John Hopkins University, Stanford University, Vanderbilt University, Yale University and more. Out of the entire Rio Grande Valley 2025 class, 61% received acceptances into selective and highly selective different colleges and universities across the U.S. and beyond. This year, IDEA Elsa and IDEA Owassa welcome their first senior classes as they take part in the College Signing Day (CSD) events.  

Senior Spotlight 

Every student in the Class of 2025 has a unique story, but one senior, Adlih Rodriguez, is a powerful example of resilience and hope. Adlih, a senior at IDEA Brownsville, recounts the heartbreaking day her life changed forever during her junior year when she learned her mother had passed away unexpectedly. Despite the unimaginable grief, Adlih found the strength to keep going, channeling her pain into purpose. Now, just one year later, she’s the captain of her school’s Dazzlers dance team, a first-generation college student, and has been accepted into 20 universities. She will soon begin a new chapter at a university of her choice, carrying with her the lessons, love, and memory of her mom. Her story is one of extraordinary courage, and a reminder of the power of perseverance through loss. She will announce her college of choice to her family on May 15 during the morning ceremony.  More seniors with stories of success have been identified, click here to read more.  

For more information on IDEA Public Schools, please visit http://www.ideapublicschools.org/. 

Wednesday, May 14 
2:00 p.m. – IDEA Pharr, IDEA San Juan, IDEA North Mission, and IDEA San Benito 
1:00 p.m. – Media welcome to arrive to set up and conduct interviews  
1:30 p.m. – Pre-show entertainment begins 
2:00 p.m. – Ceremony begins 
2:20 p.m. – Seniors begin to reveal what colleges they will be attending next fall 
 
Thursday, May 15  
9:30 a.m. – IDEA Edinburg, IDEA Brownsville, IDEA Quest, and IDEA Weslaco 
9:00 a.m. – Media welcome to arrive to set up and conduct interviews 
9:15 a.m. – Pre-show entertainment begins 
9:30 a.m. – Ceremony begins 
9:49 a.m. – Seniors begin to reveal what colleges they will be attending next fall 
 
2:00 p.m. – IDEA Rio Grande City, IDEA Elsa, IDEA Weslaco Pike, and IDEA Owassa 
1:00 p.m. – Media welcome to arrive to set up and conduct interviews  
1:30 p.m. – Pre-show entertainment begins 
2:00 p.m. – Ceremony begins 
2:20 p.m. – Seniors begin to reveal what colleges they will be attending next fall 
 
Friday, May 16  
9:30 a.m. – IDEA Alamo, IDEA Sports Park, IDEA Riverview, and IDEA Mission 
9:00 a.m. – Media welcome to arrive to set up and conduct interviews 
9:15 a.m. – Pre-show entertainment begins 
9:30 a.m. – Ceremony begins 
9:49 a.m. – Seniors begin to reveal what colleges they will be attending next fall  
2:00 p.m. – IDEA Donna, IDEA Frontier, IDEA McAllen, IDEA Tres Lagos, and IDEA Toros 
1:00 p.m. – Media welcome to arrive to set up and conduct interviews  
1:30 p.m. – Pre-show entertainment begins 
2:00 p.m. – Ceremony begins 
2:20 p.m. – Seniors begin to reveal what colleges they will be attending next fall 
 

Sen. Cruz Introduces the Invest America Act

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Sen. Cruz Introduces the Invest America Act
U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) today introduced the Invest America Act. The bill establishes a private tax-advantaged account with a $1,000 seed investment from the federal government for every American child at birth. Image: Public Domain. Bgd for illustration purposes
U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) today introduced the Invest America Act. The bill establishes a private tax-advantaged account with a $1,000 seed investment from the federal government for every American child at birth. Image: Public Domain. Bgd for illustration purposes

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WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) today introduced the Invest America Act. The bill establishes a private tax-advantaged account with a $1,000 seed investment from the federal government for every American child at birth. 

Meanwhile, the bill made a major advance when the U.S. House of Representatives today released a version of Senator Cruz’s bill in the House Ways and Means Committee budget package. 

Sen. Cruz said, “The Invest America Act will trigger fundamental and transformative changes for the financial security and personal freedoms of American citizens for generations. Every child in America will have private investment accounts that will compound over their lives, enhancing the prosperity and economic participation of the vast majority of Americans. When people years from now talk about the changes created by Republican efforts this Congress, this is one of the landmark achievements they will talk about.”

Brad Gerstner, Founder, Chairman, and CEO of Altimeter Capital, said, “Invest America accounts are central to the Main Street Agenda — pulling every kid off the sidelines and putting them squarely in the game. When everyone realizes they can be an owner, it unites our country around free‑market principles and unleashes the next generation of American success. This progress would not be possible without Senator Cruz’s leadership.”

Michael Dell, Founder, Chairman, and CEO of Dell Technologies, said, “Invest America accounts put every child in the front row of our economy. When the power of compounding meets the energy of young minds, we’re not just growing portfolios—we’re fostering the next generation of builders, dreamers, and doers who will keep America leading the world.”

BACKGROUND

Each Invest America account will be open to contributions from individuals, family members, friends, and businesses up to $5,000 annually. The account investments can be placed in a broad, low-cost fund that tracks the S&P 500, growing tax-deferred until the individual reaches age 18. Distributions after age 18 would be taxed at the capital gains rate.

South Texas ISD to Serve Free Meals for Community This Summer

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South Texas ISD to Serve Free Meals for Community This Summer
South Texas Independent School District (STISD) will serve free breakfast and lunch meals to children 18 years old and younger from our local communities and enrolled students up to 21 years old with disabilities this summer from June 1 to June 30. Courtesy image
South Texas Independent School District (STISD) will serve free breakfast and lunch meals to children 18 years old and younger from our local communities and enrolled students up to 21 years old with disabilities this summer from June 1 to June 30. Courtesy image

MERCEDES, Texas – South Texas Independent School District (STISD) will serve free breakfast and lunch meals to children 18 years old and younger from our local communities and enrolled students up to 21 years old with disabilities this summer from June 1 to June 30.

The meals will be served via dine-in only at the cafeterias of four different STISD campuses. Breakfast will be served from 7:30-8:30 a.m., and lunch will be served from 11:00 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday through June 30.

These meals will be provided at no cost to the family, and children do not have to be enrolled within STISD to receive meals.

Meal locations include:
• Edinburg: South Texas ISD Preparatory Academy/World Scholars Cafeteria (510 S. Sugar Rd.,
• Mercedes: South Texas ISD Health Professions Cafeteria (700 Med High Drive, Mercedes)
• Olmito: South Texas ISD Medical Professions Cafeteria (10650 N Expressway 77/83, Olmito)
• San Benito: South Texas ISD Rising Scholars Academy Cafeteria (151 S. Helen Moore Rd.,

For additional information, contact Oliver Galvan, Child Nutrition Director, at oliver.galvan@stisd.net or 956.514.4230.

McAllen Leaders Sworn in and Election Results Certified During May 12th Joint Meeting

Roberto H. Gonzalez
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McAllen Leaders Sworn in and Election Results Certified During May 12th Joint Meeting
Mayor Javier Villalobos, Public Utility Trustee Ernest Williams, District 1 Commissioner Antonio “Tony” Aguirre, Jr., District 3 Commissioner Rolando “Rolly” Rios, and District 2 Commissioner Joaquin “J.J.” Zamora. Photo by Roberto Hugo González
Mayor Javier Villalobos, Public Utility Trustee Ernest Williams, District 1 Commissioner Antonio “Tony” Aguirre, Jr., District 3 Commissioner Rolando “Rolly” Rios, and District 2 Commissioner Joaquin “J.J.” Zamora. Photo by Roberto Hugo González

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By Roberto Hugo González

On Monday, May 12, 2025, the City of McAllen held its official canvassing of election results and administered the oaths of office to newly elected and returning city and public utility officials during a regularly scheduled Commission Meeting at McAllen City Hall. The meeting began at 4:00 p.m. and included formal proceedings and brief remarks from officials.

Mayor Javier Villalobos was sworn in by the Honorable Jaime Tijerina, Chief Justice of the 13th Court of Appeals. Tijerina reflected on the significance of the moment, noting that it had been 30 years since he and Mayor Villalbos were sworn in as young attorneys. In his remarks, Mayor Villalobos thanked McAllen residents for their continued trust and reaffirmed his commitment to governance conducted “the McAllen way”—with integrity, efficiency, and service-minded leadership.

Mayor Javier Villalobos and his wife Annette. Photo by Roberto Hugo González

District 1 Commissioner Antonio “Tony” Aguirre, Jr., and District 2 Commissioner Joaquin “J.J.” Zamora were sworn in by the Honorable Rose Guerra Reyna, Judge of the 206th District Court of Hidalgo County. Commissioner Aguirre, in his remarks, spoke about his family’s deep roots in McAllen and paid tribute to his late parents. Commissioner Zamora emphasized the importance of teamwork in public service and expressed gratitude for the support of his family and church communities.

Tony Aguirre and his wife, Linda. Photo by Roberto Hugo González
J.J. Zamora and his wife Elizabeth. Photo by Roberto Hugo González

Newly elected District 3 Commissioner Rolando “Rolly” Rios was sworn in by the Honorable Marla Cuellar, Judge of the 275th District Court of Hidalgo County. Commissioner Rios acknowledged his predecessor, Commissioner Omar Quintanilla, and expressed appreciation to District 3 voters for their support. He pledged transparency, open communication, and a focus on improving the quality of life across the city.

Rolando Rios, and his wife Isela. Photo by Roberto Hugo González

Mayor Villalobos swore in McAllen Public Utility Trustee Ernest Williams. Trustee Williams addressed the state of the utility, highlighting its solid financial footing, experienced leadership, and effective operations. He credited the utility’s success to the professionalism of its 240-plus employees and reiterated the importance of fiscal responsibility and planning.

Trustee Ernie Williams (Place D) and family. Photo by Roberto Hugo González

During the meeting, the McAllen City Commission officially canvassed the results of the May 3, 2025, municipal election. In contested races, Antonio Aguirre, Jr. won District 1 with 980 votes over Tim Wilkins’ 494 votes. In District 3, Rolando Rios received 501 votes to defeat Commissioner Omar Quintanilla, who earned 370 votes. Both candidates were declared winners.

Unopposed races included Mayor Javier Villalobos, District 2 Commissioner J.J. Zamora, McAllen Public Utility Board Trustee Charles Amos (Place A), and Trustee Ernie Williams (Place D). The Commission and Public Utility Board formally adopted an ordinance certifying the official election returns and declaring unopposed candidates as elected.

Following the oath ceremonies and official canvassing, the meeting briefly adjourned for a photo session and reception, accompanied by cake and punch. It then resumed as a joint session between the City Commission and the McAllen Public Utility Board.

The meeting concluded with expressions of appreciation from elected officials and a unified message of service and collaboration for McAllen’s future.

CBP Officers Seize More Than $930K in Cocaine at Del Rio Port of Entry

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CBP Officers Seize More Than $930K in Cocaine at Del Rio Port of Entry
Packages containing 69.71 pounds of cocaine seized by CBP officers at Del Rio Port of Entry. The seizure occurred on May 9 at the Del Rio International Bridge when a CBP officer. USCBP image
Packages containing 69.71 pounds of cocaine seized by CBP officers at Del Rio Port of Entry. The seizure occurred on May 9 at the Del Rio International Bridge when a CBP officer. USCBP image

Texas Border Business

DEL RIO, Texas—U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Office of Field Operations officers at Del Rio Port of Entry seized more than $930,000 in cocaine. 

“This significant narcotic seizure emphasizes the steadfast commitment our officers have to keeping our community safe,” said Port Director Liliana Flores, Del Rio Port of Entry. “These types of seizures reinforce the importance of CBP’s mission to secure our borders.”

referred a Chevrolet Captiva being driven by a 75-year-old male Mexican citizen for secondary inspection. CBP officers conducted a secondary examination of the vehicle that included utilization of nonintrusive inspection system. Upon a physical examination, CBP officers discovered 32 packages containing a total of 69.71 pounds of alleged cocaine, hidden within a compartment within the seats of the vehicle. The cocaine had a combined estimated street value of $930,766.

CBP seized the narcotics. Texas Department of Public Safety officers arrested the driver and initiated a criminal investigation.  

LSNB’s “Fill the Bag” Campaign Brings Comfort & Dignity to the Terminally Ill

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LSNB’s “Fill the Bag” Campaign Brings Comfort & Dignity to the Terminally Ill
Now in its 17th year, the initiative focuses on supporting the Comfort House in the Rio Grande Valley (RGV) and ABODE Home in San Antonio. Both nonprofits provide free, compassionate end-of-life care to patients during life’s most sensitive moments. Image courtesy of Lone Star National Bank
Now in its 17th year, the initiative focuses on supporting the Comfort House in the Rio Grande Valley (RGV) and ABODE Home in San Antonio. Both nonprofits provide free, compassionate end-of-life care to patients during life’s most sensitive moments. Image courtesy of Lone Star National Bank

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McAllen/San Antonio – Lone Star National Bank (LSNB) announces the successful conclusion of its annual “Fill the Bag” initiative, an effort rooted in compassion and community support.

Now in its 17th year, the initiative focuses on supporting the Comfort House in the Rio Grande Valley (RGV) and ABODE Home in San Antonio. Both nonprofits provide free, compassionate end-of-life care to patients during life’s most sensitive moments. 

Image courtesy of Lone Star National Bank

Our longstanding partnership with these organizations reflects LSNB’s unwavering commitment to improving the quality of life in the communities we serve. Each year, our employees proudly come together to support these meaningful causes, donating their time, resources, and compassion. “We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who contributed this year. Your generosity brings not only hope and dignity to terminally ill individuals and families but also strengthens the spirit of community that defines who we are. This gesture is a powerful step towards healing, progress, and shared humanity,” said S. David Deanda, Jr., LSNB President.

Through the “Fill the Bag” campaign, employees, customers, and community members were encouraged to donate essential items such as toiletries, non-perishable food, and other daily necessities. Collection bags were placed at all LSNB locations across South Texas, providing convenient donation points for anyone wishing to make a difference. 

The Comfort House and the Abode Contemplative Care for the Dying in San Antonio provide a compassionate, home-like and peaceful environment for individuals facing terminal illness, with a prognosis of four months or less to live. 

Together, let’s shine a light of compassion throughout the communities we live in and serve.

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