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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.

Texas A&M Agricultural Economics Marks Milestone in South Texas

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Texas A&M Agricultural Economics Marks Milestone in South Texas
Dina Santiago ’25, one of the first agricultural economics graduates from the Texas A&M University Higher Education Center at McAllen, plans to pursue a master’s in environmental economics. (Courtesy photo/Brenda Santiago Herrera)
Dina Santiago ’25, one of the first agricultural economics graduates from the Texas A&M University Higher Education Center at McAllen, plans to pursue a master’s in environmental economics. (Courtesy photo/Brenda Santiago Herrera)

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Texas A&M AgriLife

The Department of Agricultural Economics in the Texas A&M College of Agriculture and Life Sciences marked a major milestone with its first South Texas agricultural economics program graduates in McAllen.

Dina Santiago and Diego Chapa, who participated in May commencement ceremonies in Bryan-College Station, are the first graduates in the program designed to address the region’s need for professionals trained in economic analysis, sustainability and agribusiness.

The mission of the agricultural economics program, launched in 2022 at the Texas A&M University Higher Education Center at McAllen, is to serve South Texas through high-impact and regionally relevant education.

“This program is not just an extension of our College; it’s a strategic anchor in South Texas,” said Rudy Nayga, Ph.D., professor and head of the Department of Agricultural Economics, Bryan-College Station. “We want our students to serve, innovate and lead in the Rio Grande Valley and beyond.”

Student education unique to South Texas agriculture

The South Texas program offers a unique blend of classroom instruction and experiential learning focused on the Rio Grande Valley’s economic and agricultural landscape. Students participate in research projects, internships, industry engagement and policy discussions with real-world applications.

Diego Chapa ’25, a Rio Grande Valley native and one the first agricultural economics graduates from the Texas A&M University Higher Education Center at McAllen, receives an Outstanding Student Award from Department of Agricultural Economics head Rudy Nayga Ph.D, and assistant professor Lucas Garcia, Ph.D. (Donna Chester/Texas A&M AgriLife)

“The success of our first graduates is a testament to the program’s relevance and the dedication of our faculty,” said Samuel Zapata, Ph.D., associate professor at the McAllen Center. “We’re preparing students to tackle the economic challenges unique to South Texas agriculture.”

The agricultural economics program at the McAllen Center prepares students in food policy, finance, trade, sustainability and rural development. With a curriculum tailored to the region and faculty support from both the McAllen and College Station campuses, the program offers a direct pathway for local students to enter high-demand careers or pursue graduate studies.

“Agricultural economics was a perfect bridge to branch into many careers while staying close to what’s truly near to my heart, agriculture,” Chapa said. “The McAllen campus provided high-impact experiences like visiting trade hubs, attending conferences and working with local agribusinesses.”

“The diversity of the program, from finance and trade to policy and sustainability, has helped me shape my career goals and skill set,” Santiago said. “Agricultural economics is essential to the future of Texas, especially here in the Rio Grande Valley. Whether it’s trade, land use or technology adoption, this field sits at the center of change.”

Both Santiago and Chapa have said they will pursue master’s degrees in environmental economics and agribusiness, respectively.

CBP Officers at Marcelino Serna Port of Entry Seize Cocaine Load

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CBP Officers at Marcelino Serna Port of Entry Seize Cocaine Load
U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers working at the Marcelino Serna port of entry in Tornillo, Texas seized 28.5 pounds of cocaine May 9. The drugs were hidden in a vehicle being driven by a 25-year-old female U.S. citizen. USCBP image
U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers working at the Marcelino Serna port of entry in Tornillo, Texas seized 28.5 pounds of cocaine May 9. The drugs were hidden in a vehicle being driven by a 25-year-old female U.S. citizen. USCBP image

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TORNILLO, Texas – U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers working at the Marcelino Serna port of entry in Tornillo, Texas seized 28.5 pounds of cocaine May 9. The drugs were hidden in a vehicle being driven by a 25-year-old female U.S. citizen.

“This is a significant amount of cocaine that did not reach its intended destination,” said CBP Marcelino Serna Port Director Eric Fernandez. “Every drug load that CBP stops plays a role in keeping our communities and neighbors safe.”

The seizure was made at approximately 1:30 p.m. when a 2013 Nissan Titan with a single occupant arrived from Mexico. CBP officers selected the vehicle for a secondary exam.

A CBP drug sniffing dog searched the vehicle and alerted officers to the presence of narcotics. CBP officers continued the exam and located 14 foil-wrapped bundles hidden in the wheel well and dashboard of the vehicle. The contents of the packages tested positive for cocaine.

CBP officers arrested the driver. She was turned over to the Texas Department of Public Safety to face state charges associated with the failed smuggling attempt.

RGV Gives Back Receives $3k Texas Bar Foundation Grant to Support 2025 Student Scholarships

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RGV Gives Back Receives $3k Texas Bar Foundation Grant to Support 2025 Student Scholarships
“We are incredibly grateful to the Texas Bar Foundation for believing in our mission and investing in the future of aspiring legal professionals,” said Hannah Orendain, Founder and President of RGV Gives Back. Image courtesy of RGV Gives Back

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McALLEN, Texas – RGV Gives Back has been awarded a $3,000 grant from the Texas Bar Foundation to support the organization’s 2025 Student Scholarship Program. The grant, approved for a one-year term beginning April 11, 2025, will directly fund scholarships for students from the Rio Grande Valley pursuing a law degree.

“We are incredibly grateful to the Texas Bar Foundation for believing in our mission and investing in the future of aspiring legal professionals,” said Hannah Orendain, Founder and President of RGV Gives Back. “These scholarships will help remove financial barriers for students from our region who are dedicated to making a difference through the legal field.”

The 2025 Law Student Scholarship Program is part of RGV Gives Back’s broader commitment to education and community empowerment. Through this initiative, the organization supports students who demonstrate academic potential, leadership, and a passion for justice. 

Since its inception in 1965, the Texas Bar Foundation has awarded more than $29 million in grants to law-related programs. Supported by members of the State Bar of Texas, the Texas Bar Foundation is the nation’s largest charitably funded bar foundation.

For more information about RGV Gives Back and its scholarship programs, please visit rgvgivesback.org or contact Candace Rodriguez, Vice President of Community Engagement & Outreach, rgvgivesback@gmail.com.

De La Cruz Introduces Healthy Babies Act

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De La Cruz Introduces Healthy Babies Act
Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz (TX-15) introduced the Healthy Babies Act to expand food options available to recipients of the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC). The legislation will eliminate the ban on certain infant food combinations, like meat and vegetables. Image for illustration purposes.
Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz (TX-15) introduced the Healthy Babies Act to expand food options available to recipients of the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC). The legislation will eliminate the ban on certain infant food combinations, like meat and vegetables. Image for illustration purposes.

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WASHINGTON, DC – Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz (TX-15) introduced the Healthy Babies Act to expand food options available to recipients of the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC). The legislation will eliminate the ban on certain infant food combinations, like meat and vegetables.

“In my district, one in four children face food insecurity. Government overregulation should never stand in the way of a mother feeding her child. The Healthy Babies Act will remove onerous regulations, expand access to food options under the WIC program, and support South Texas farmers and families. I will continue to fight to sustain and protect the programs many in our community rely on.” – Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz

The Healthy Babies Act is supported by the Texas Farm Bureau.

“Thank you to Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz for her continued leadership on the House Agriculture Committee on behalf of Texas farmers, ranchers, and consumers. The Healthy Babies Act will help provide more healthy food options for families in South Texas, while also providing additional opportunities for the crops we produce.” – Russell Boening, President of the Texas Farm Bureau

Background:

The Healthy Babies Act amends the Child Nutrition Act of 1966 to direct the Secretary of Agriculture to allow infant food combinations under the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for women, infants, and children (WIC). The legislation will remove an outdated guideline that bans certain infant food combinations, such as meat and vegetables, which are safely available for non-WIC recipients.

McAllen, Edinburg and RGVMPO Celebrate Connectivity Project

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McAllen, Edinburg and RGVMPO Celebrate Connectivity Project
City of McAllen YouTube image
City of McAllen YouTube image

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The Jackson Hike & Bike Phase II project is set to provide connectivity between the City of McAllen and City of Edinburg’s hiking and biking network of trails, linking both communities.

This ambitious initiative has created a unified pathway between Bicentennial Boulevard and 2nd Street trails, extending to the Jackson Road Hike & Bike trail junction at Jackson Road and Wisconsin Road. The City of McAllen and Edinburg leaders along with TXDOT and RGVMPO officials cut the ribbon on the 1.5 mile, 10-foot-wide Hike & Bike Trail — a brand-new addition to both communities that promises to enhance connectivity and recreational experiences for residents and visitors alike. 

With a total project cost of $2,683,776.55, funding for this initiative is a collaborative effort from the City of McAllen and City of Edinburg, and active participation from RGVMPO. Leading the engineering aspects was GDJ Engineering, while the construction contractor for the project was GO Underground, LLC. The construction had an approximate 15-month timeline, kicking off in February

PSJA ISD Makes History with 715 Early College Students Named Prospective STC Grads

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PSJA ISD Makes History with 715 Early College Students Named Prospective STC Grads
Pharr-San Juan-Alamo ISD (PSJA ISD) celebrated a record-breaking milestone as 541 Early College prospective graduates walked the stage during the South Texas College (STC) Spring Commencement Ceremony on Friday, May 9, 2025, at 9 a.m. at Bert Ogden Arena. The PSJA Class of 2025 made district history with a total of 715 students participating in the Fall 2024 and Spring 2025 commencement ceremonies. Image courtesy of PSJA ISD
Pharr-San Juan-Alamo ISD (PSJA ISD) celebrated a record-breaking milestone as 541 Early College prospective graduates walked the stage during the South Texas College (STC) Spring Commencement Ceremony on Friday, May 9, 2025, at 9 a.m. at Bert Ogden Arena. The PSJA Class of 2025 made district history with a total of 715 students participating in the Fall 2024 and Spring 2025 commencement ceremonies. Image courtesy of PSJA ISD

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EDINBURG/PHARR – Pharr-San Juan-Alamo ISD (PSJA ISD) celebrated a record-breaking milestone as 541 Early College prospective graduates walked the stage during the South Texas College (STC) Spring Commencement Ceremony on Friday, May 9, 2025, at 9 a.m. at Bert Ogden Arena. The PSJA Class of 2025 made district history with a total of 715 students participating in the Fall 2024 and Spring 2025 commencement ceremonies.
 
Of the 715 students, 522 earned an Associate Degree in fields including Biology, Criminal Justice, Graphic Arts, Interdisciplinary Studies, Computer Science, and Mathematics during the 2024-2025 school year.    

Additionally, 193 students earned Industry Level Certifications through the PSJA Academies in high-demand, high-wage fields such as Structural Welding, Automotive, and Computer Application, preparing them for the workforce and beyond. 

These accomplishments are the result of PSJA ISD’s Nationally Recognized Early College Program in partnership with STC, which allows high school students to earn up to 60 college credit hours or an Associate Degree at no cost while simultaneously completing their high school education. 

As a part of PSJA ISD’s commitment to college and career readiness, all six high schools in the district are designated as Early College. These opportunities empower students, many of them first-generation college-goers, to graduate from high school with a significant head start. 
 
“We are incredibly proud of our students for achieving this historic milestone,” said PSJA Superintendent of Schools Dr. Alejandro Elias. “Our Early College Program is not only transforming lives but transforming futures for families across our community. This achievement is a testament to our students’ dedication, the support of their families, and the commitment of our educators and staff.” 
 
Overall, the number of Prospective College Graduates increased a remarkable 30% from the 2023-2024 school year, making it the highest number of Prospective graduates in district history due to the district’s ongoing strategic efforts to provide Opportunities For All. 
 
“This record-breaking number of Early College Prospective Graduates demonstrates the determination of our students, the support from their families, and the dedication of our educators,” said PSJA Executive Officer for College & Career Readiness Dr. Linda Uribe-Trevino. “Our students continue to set the bar higher each year, and we couldn’t be more excited for where the future takes them.” 
 

To learn more about the PSJA Early College Program, visit: www.psjaisd.us/whypsja 

2025 Economic Development Week in Texas

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2025 Economic Development Week in Texas
Governor Greg Abbott has recognized the critical role that local, regional, and statewide economic development organizations play in strengthening the Texas economy, creating new job opportunities, and enhancing quality of life for all Texans by proclaiming May 12‒16, 2025 as Economic Development Week in Texas. Image for illustration purposes
Governor Greg Abbott has recognized the critical role that local, regional, and statewide economic development organizations play in strengthening the Texas economy, creating new job opportunities, and enhancing quality of life for all Texans by proclaiming May 12‒16, 2025 as Economic Development Week in Texas. Image for illustration purposes

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USTIN – Governor Greg Abbott has recognized the critical role that local, regional, and statewide economic development organizations play in strengthening the Texas economy, creating new job opportunities, and enhancing quality of life for all Texans by proclaiming May 12‒16, 2025 as Economic Development Week in Texas.

“Texas is where the future is building — where opportunity is abundant, where free enterprise flourishes, and where families and jobs grow,” said Governor Abbott. “The key to Texas’ unrivaled success in economic development is teamwork. It takes a collaborative effort from organizations across the state to attract new businesses, investments, and jobs, as well as help existing Texas companies grow. By working together with all of our economic development partners across the state, we will build a stronger, more prosperous Texas for generations.”

Governor Abbott recently celebrated Texas being ranked the Best State for Business for the 21st year in a row by Chief Executive magazine in recognition of the state’s business climate, workforce, and quality of life. Additionally, Texas won the 2025 Prosperity Cup awarded by Site Selection magazine to the top-performing state for attracting new business investments, earning Texas the “Triple Crown Trophy” for the best economy in the nation. The Governor also released his five-year statewide economic development strategic plan that establishes a blueprint for continued economic expansion and job creation across Texas.

The Governor’s Texas Economic Development & Tourism Office (EDT) is tasked with marketing and promoting the state of Texas across the nation and around the world as the premier business location and travel destination. EDT works closely with communities and local, regional, and statewide economic development and tourism organizations, as well as partnering state agencies, to ensure Texas remains the best place to live, work, and visit.

Read the Governor’s proclamation.

PSJA ISD Honors Years of Service at Annual Awards & Retirement Celebration  

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PSJA ISD Honors Years of Service at Annual Awards & Retirement Celebration  
Pharr-San-Juan-Alamo Independent School District (PSJA ISD) hosted its annual Service Awards & Retirement Celebration on May 8, 2025. The event, themed “A Jazz Night at PSJA,” celebrated the dedication and commitment of staff members with 25 or more years of service and honored the district’s retire. Image courtesy of PSJA ISD
Pharr-San-Juan-Alamo Independent School District (PSJA ISD) hosted its annual Service Awards & Retirement Celebration on May 8, 2025. The event, themed “A Jazz Night at PSJA,” celebrated the dedication and commitment of staff members with 25 or more years of service and honored the district’s retire. Image courtesy of PSJA ISD

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PHARR, Texas – Pharr-San-Juan-Alamo Independent School District (PSJA ISD) hosted its annual Service Awards & Retirement Celebration on May 8, 2025. The event, themed “A Jazz Night at PSJA,” celebrated the dedication and commitment of staff members with 25 or more years of service and honored the district’s retirees. 

Dr. Alejandro Elias, Superintendent of PSJA, extended heartfelt congratulations to service award recipients and retirees, emphasizing their significant contributions to the district. “Tonight is a tribute to those who make PSJA extraordinary. To our honorees and retirees—thank you for shaping lives and strengthening the foundation of our district,” said Dr. Elias.  

Image courtesy of PSJA ISD

The celebration included dinner, special remarks from district leaders, and live music by the PSJA T. Jefferson T-STEM Early College High School Jazz Band. Among the honored individuals was Raul Longoria Elementary teacher Karin I. Isaacs, recognized for an exceptional 40 years of service to PSJA ISD. Reflecting on her years as an educator, the passion and dedication that she feels for her students shines through as she expresses that helping educate our future is her motivation for teaching.  

Image courtesy of PSJA ISD

“I want to do everything I can to help my students lead successful lives. I care deeply about each of them and strive to always be there when they need support,” said Isaacs. “The greatest reward in teaching comes when I see their faces light up and hear them say, ‘I can read!’, ‘I got it’ or I can do this!” 

The celebration honored 137 service award honorees and over 100 retirees, including teachers, administrators, food service staff, transportation personnel, and many others, all of whom have played pivotal roles in ensuring the best learning experiences for students at PSJA ISD. 

Image courtesy of PSJA ISD

Also honored among the retirees was Dr. Nora Cantu, Executive Officer for Academics, who has proudly served PSJA ISD for 44 years. She began her career as a middle school teacher and rose through the ranks to become a district administrator. Looking ahead, Dr. Cantu shared her excitement about spending more time with her family, especially her 88-year-old mother. She also plans to travel, craft, garden, and launch a new business. 

“I felt a mix of happiness and sadness at tonight’s event, it was truly bittersweet,” said Dr. Cantu. “After serving as a teacher, assistant principal, principal, and Executive Officer, this marks the end of one chapter and the start of a new one. I will deeply miss my PSJA family.”  

The event served as a powerful reminder of the lasting impact of dedicated educators and staff within the PSJA ISD community who regardless of their role exemplify the district’s commitment to excellence.   

Legislation to Support First Responders’ Health Benefits Heads to Governor

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Legislation to Support First Responders’ Health Benefits Heads to Governor
This important bill ensures that firefighters, peace officers, and emergency medical technicians (EMTs) who experience a heart attack or stroke within eight hours after a strenuous shift are presumed to have been injured in the line of duty. Courtesy image. Bgd for illustration purposes
This important bill ensures that firefighters, peace officers, and emergency medical technicians (EMTs) who experience a heart attack or stroke within eight hours after a strenuous shift are presumed to have been injured in the line of duty. Courtesy image. Bgd for illustration purposes

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Austin, TX – The Texas Senate passed House Bill (HB) 331, authored by Representative Jared Patterson and Senator Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa. This important bill ensures that firefighters, peace officers, and emergency medical technicians (EMTs) who experience a heart attack or stroke within eight hours after a strenuous shift are presumed to have been injured in the line of duty. This change will help these brave individuals access workers’ compensation benefits more easily and fairly.

Senator Hinojosa emphasized the importance of this bill, stating “Our first responders have earned and deserve our support. They are there for us when we need them the most. Likewise, we shouldn’t turn our backs on them when their life and health are impacted by their work.”

First responders face significant risks. Current law requires that heart attacks or strokes occur during duty. However, the nature of their work often involves high-stress situations that can lead to medical emergencies after their shifts have ended. Many firefighters and police officers push through to the end of their shifts, only to discover they have suffered a heart attack later.

House Bill 331 removes the “nonroutine” limitation, broadening the definition of “qualifying activity” to include any stressful or strenuous physical activities, whether routine or extraordinary. Since first responders frequently deal with unpredictable situations, this change will simplify the coverage and eliminate confusion.

The new law will apply only to claims filed on or after the effective date, meaning there will be no retroactive claims.

Senator Hinojosa concluded, “This bill is the right move to protect our first responders and their families, giving them peace of mind that if a tragedy occurs, they will have access to the benefits they deserve.”

The bill is now awaiting final approval from Governor Greg Abbott.

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