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Leaders of ‘764’ Arrested and Charged for Operating Global Child Exploitation Enterprise

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Leaders of ‘764’ Arrested and Charged for Operating Global Child Exploitation Enterprise
According to the affidavit unsealed today in the District of Columbia, 764 is a violent online network that seeks to destroy civilized society through the corruption and exploitation of vulnerable populations, which often include minors. The 764 network’s accelerationist goals include social unrest and the downfall of the current world order, including the U.S. Government. Image for illustration purposes
According to the affidavit unsealed today in the District of Columbia, 764 is a violent online network that seeks to destroy civilized society through the corruption and exploitation of vulnerable populations, which often include minors. The 764 network’s accelerationist goals include social unrest and the downfall of the current world order, including the U.S. Government. Image for illustration purposes

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U.S. Department of Justice

Note: View the criminal complaint.

Leonidas Varagiannis, also known as War, 21, a citizen of the United States residing in Thessaloniki, Greece, and Prasan Nepal, also known as Trippy, 20, of High Point, North Carolina, are charged for their crimes operating an international child exploitation enterprise in connection with a nihilistic violent extremist (NVE) network known as 764. Nepal was arrested on April 22 in North Carolina. Varagiannis was arrested yesterday in Greece.

According to the affidavit unsealed today in the District of Columbia, 764 is a violent online network that seeks to destroy civilized society through the corruption and exploitation of vulnerable populations, which often include minors. The 764 network’s accelerationist goals include social unrest and the downfall of the current world order, including the U.S. Government.

“These defendants are accused of orchestrating one of the most heinous online child exploitation enterprises we have ever encountered — a network built on terror, abuse, and the deliberate targeting of children,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “We will find those who exploit and abuse children, prosecute them, and dismantle every part of their operation.”

“These defendants allegedly recruited others to exploit children and created a guide for the disgusting online content they wanted,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “Let me be very clear about our efforts. The FBI and our partners are determined to protect juveniles from predators, and we will track down and hold accountable those who engage in these criminal activities. We will continue to work closely with our partners at the Department of Justice to bring justice to the victims of such cruel abuse.”

“The allegations in this case are not only disturbing, they are also every parent’s nightmare,” said U.S. Attorney Edward R. Martin Jr. for the District of Columbia. “The number of victims allegedly exploited by these defendants, and the depths of depravity are staggering. Justice demands that our response be swift in order to ensure public safety, hold the wrongdoers accountable, and bring the victims some sense of closure so they can heal.” 

As alleged, the defendants engaged in a coordinated criminal enterprise and led a core subgroup within 764 known as 764 Inferno, operated through encrypted messaging applications. As alleged, they directed, participated in, and otherwise caused the production and distribution of child sexual abuse material (CSAM), and the defendants facilitated the grooming, manipulation, and extortion of minors. Varagiannis and Nepal allegedly ordered their victims to commit acts of self-harm and engaged in psychological torment and extreme violence against minors. The affidavit alleges that the group targeted vulnerable children online, coercing them into producing degrading and explicit content under threat and manipulation. This content includes “cut signs” and “blood signs” through which young minors would cut symbols into their bodies.

The defendants and their co-conspirators around the world used the CSAM and other gore and violent material to create digital “Lorebooks,” which NVEs used as digital currency within the 764 network — traded, archived in encrypted “vaults,” and used as a means to recruit new members or maintain status within the network. The affidavit also details how the defendants instructed other members in grooming tactics and set content production expectations for new recruits. In multiple instances, the defendants threatened and caused their victims to engage in self-mutilation, online and in-person sexual acts, harm to animals, sexual exploitation of siblings and others, acts of violence, threats of violence, suicide, and murder.

Also according to the complaint affidavit, the defendants exploited at least eight minor victims across multiple jurisdictions, with some content traced back to children as young as 13 years old. The network’s activities spanned from late 2020 through early 2025, with core leadership roles attributed to both defendants throughout the period.

If convicted, the defendants face a maximum penalty of life in prison.

The FBI Washington Field Office and the FBI New York Field Office are investigating the case, with assistance from the FBI Charlotte Field Office and the FBI Athens (Greece) Legal Attaché Office. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs provided crucial assistance.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Alexandra Hughes, Karen Ditzler Shinskie, and Jack Korba for the District of Columbia, and Trial Attorneys Justin Sher and James Donnelly of the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section are prosecuting the case, with assistance from Assistant U.S. Attorney Eric Iverson for the Middle District of North Carolina and Paralegal Specialists Marissa Mondelli, Kristina Hamil, and Jorge Casillas.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.

Charges in a criminal complaint are merely allegations. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. 

Updated April 30, 2025

In the First 100 Days of the Trump Admin., Secretary Rollins Puts Farmers First

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In the First 100 Days of the Trump Admin., Secretary Rollins Puts Farmers First
In the first 100 days of the Trump Administration, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins has taken action to support the leadership of President Donald J. Trump and put Farmers First at the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). Image: Public Domain via Wikimedia Commons. Bgd for illustration purposes
In the first 100 days of the Trump Administration, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins has taken action to support the leadership of President Donald J. Trump and put Farmers First at the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). Image: Public Domain via Wikimedia Commons. Bgd for illustration purposes

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WASHINGTON, D.C., – In the first 100 days of the Trump Administration, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins has taken action to support the leadership of President Donald J. Trump and put Farmers First at the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA).

“Farmers come first at the United States Department of Agriculture in the Trump Administration. We have had an action-packed first 100 days of President Donald J. Trump in the White House. At USDA, I have made bold changes to improve the lives of American producers and consumers. I look forward to continuing our work to bring America into a new golden age of prosperity, with American farmers and ranchers leading the way,” said Secretary Rollins.

Secretary Rollins also visited 15 states in the first 100 days of the Trump Administration, including Virginia, Kentucky, North Carolina, Georgia, Arkansas, Texas, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, North Dakota, Minnesota, Kansas, Missouri, Colorado, Ohio, and Iowa.

On day one, Secretary Rollins took action to support America’s farmers and ranchers, and in just her first week on the job, Secretary Rollins traveled to four states to hear directly from producers and to see their operations firsthand. In her first month, Secretary Rollins moved swiftly to advance key priorities focused on efficiency and agricultural prosperity.

In the first 100 days, USDA has put Farmers First. At Secretary Rollins’ direction, USDA has  

Information Source: USDA

PSJA’s 12th Annual All Abilities Walk to Champion Unity and Awareness 

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PSJA’s 12th Annual All Abilities Walk to Champion Unity and Awareness 
This year’s walk raised more than $26,300 through t-shirt sales and generous sponsor contributions. Image courtesy of PSJA ISD
This year’s walk raised more than $26,300 through t-shirt sales and generous sponsor contributions. Image courtesy of PSJA ISD

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PHARR, Texas – Hundreds of community members came together to support the 12th Annual PSJA All Abilities Awareness Walk, a powerful event organized by the PSJA ISD Special Education Department to promote awareness, acceptance, and education for students of all abilities. The event once again highlighted the district’s commitment to ensuring every student has the opportunity to thrive. 

Image courtesy of PSJA ISD

This year’s walk raised more than $26,300 through t-shirt sales and generous sponsor contributions. All proceeds will benefit the PSJA Education Foundation, which provides scholarships for graduating seniors with special needs, helping them pursue higher education and reach their full potential. 

“Individuals with disabilities are a vital part of our district and community,” said Veronica Quintana, PSJA Director of Special Education. “Our goal is to create opportunities for participation and belonging among students, families, and community members, and we’re grateful to our business partners who support and contribute to this meaningful event.” 

Image courtesy of PSJA ISD

Formerly known as the Autism Awareness Walk, the event was renamed last year to reflect a broader mission: to raise awareness and support for students with all types of disabilities. The walk featured dozens of resource booths, family activities, and interactive games designed to engage and inform parents and children alike. 

Image courtesy of PSJA ISD

The highlight of the event was the community walk, where students, parents, staff, and supporters joined together in solidarity to advocate for the millions living with disabilities across the nation. 

PSJA ISD extends its heartfelt thanks to all vendors, sponsors, and volunteers who helped make the event a success.  

CBP Intercepts More Than $729K in Counterfeit Cigarettes at Laredo Port of Entry

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CBP Intercepts More Than $729K in Counterfeit Cigarettes at Laredo Port of Entry
Boxes containing 17,500 cartons of cigarettes valued at more than $729,000 seized by CBP in Laredo for bearing counterfeit marks. USCBP image
Boxes containing 17,500 cartons of cigarettes valued at more than $729,000 seized by CBP in Laredo for bearing counterfeit marks. USCBP image

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LAREDO, Texas – An attempt to transport a shipment of counterfeit cigarettes valued at more than $729,000 went up in smoke as U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers at Laredo Port of Entry intercepted and seized the shipment this weekend.

After a shipment of cigarettes from Vietnam arrived at the U.S. at Miami Seaport, CBP officers placed a hold on the shipment and detained it once it arrived in Laredo, Texas in early March. After conducting a thorough examination and review of the shipment, CBP officers and import specialists assigned to the Agriculture Center for Excellence and Expertise determined that 17,500 cartons of cigarettes bore counterfeit marks. Upon further legal review, the shipment was seized on April 25. Had the cigarettes been genuine, the total Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price value of the shipment would have been $729,400.

“Our CBP officers and import specialists continue to maintain their vigilance and exercise due diligence to ensure that fake goods do not enter U.S. commerce,” said Port Director Albert Flores, Laredo Port of Entry. “They utilize their training, experience and information from the registered trademark owners to authenticate imported merchandise and when they encounter counterfeits to promptly detain and seize such items, thereby protecting the U.S. economy and the consumer.”

The commercial importation of cigarettes falls under the import/entry team assigned to the Agriculture CEE. The Laredo Port of Entry has representation covering all 10 CEEs located onsite at the port.

CBP has the authority to detain, seize, forfeit, and ultimately destroy imported merchandise if it bears an infringing trademark or copyright that has been registered with the United States Patent and Trademark Office or the United States Copyright Office and has subsequently been recorded with CBP through the e-Recordation program https://iprr.cbp.gov/s/. Other violations can include misclassification of merchandise, false country-of-origin markings, health and safety issues, and valuation issues.

Trade in counterfeit and pirated goods threatens America’s innovation economy, the competitiveness of our businesses, the livelihoods of U.S. workers, and, in some cases, national security and the health and safety of consumers.  It is also against the law to import counterfeit or pirated merchandise and individual consumers may be liable for a fine even if they did not intend to import counterfeit or pirated merchandise.

If you have information about counterfeit merchandise being illegally imported into the U.S., CBP encourages you to submit an E-Allegation.  The E-Allegation reporting tool provides a means for the public to anonymously report to CBP any suspected violations of trade laws or regulations related to the importation of goods into the U.S.

CBP has established an educational initiative to raise consumer awareness about the consequences and dangers that can be associated with the purchase of counterfeit and pirated goods.  Information about the Truth Behind Counterfeits campaign can be found at The Truth Behind Counterfeits | U.S. Customs and Border Protection (cbp.gov)

McAllen Citizens League Hosts School Board Candidate Forum, General Election May 3

Roberto H. Gonzalez
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McAllen Citizens League Hosts School Board Candidate Forum, General Election May 3
Candidates for the McAllen ISD Board of Trustees seek to represent McAllen citizens in Places 3 and 7: Robert Carreon and Allena Cano are bidding for Place 3. Roberto Haddad, Rojelio Aleman II, and Tiffany Ramos are bidding for Place 7. Photo by Roberto Hugo González.
Candidates for the McAllen ISD Board of Trustees seek to represent McAllen citizens in Places 3 and 7: Robert Carreon and Allena Cano are bidding for Place 3. Roberto Haddad, Rojelio Aleman II, and Tiffany Ramos are bidding for Place 7. Photo by Roberto Hugo González.

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By Roberto Hugo González

April 17, 2025- The McAllen Citizens League (MCL) held its third membership meeting of April 2025 with a public candidate forum for the McAllen Independent School District (MISD) Board of Trustees, Place 7. The event occurred at the Rio Bank venue at 701 E. Expressway 83 in McAllen.

MCL President Judith Flores Saldivar opened the meeting with welcoming remarks and an introduction to the program. The candidate forum, organized by MCL’s Government Affairs Committee with guidance from the board, was designed to inform members and the public about individuals running in the upcoming school board election. The early vote process is underway, with the general election on May 3, 2025.

Robert Carreon. Photo by Roberto Hugo González

Robert Carreon, a candidate for Place 3, introduced himself as an education professional with a history of teaching and educational leadership. Originally from Las Cruces, New Mexico, Carreon moved to McAllen in 2004 and has worked with Teach For America since 2006. He currently serves on the International Museum of Art & Science (IMAS) board, Leadership McAllen Class 29, and the McAllen ISD School Health Advisory Committee. His campaign focuses on student outcomes, staff satisfaction, enrollment stabilization, parent engagement, and budget efficiency.

Allena Cano. Photo by Roberto Hugo González

Also running for Place 3, Allena Cano described herself as a McAllen ISD graduate and parent of three students in the district. Cano is an attorney and owner of Cano FamCo, holding degrees from Texas Christian University, UT Arlington, and Duke Law. She emphasized transparency, accountability, and policy compliance as her priorities and directed resources to educators and facilities. Cano noted her deep roots in the McAllen community and her experience in business, athletics, and law.

Roberto Haddad. Photo by Roberto Hugo González

For Place 7, Roberto Haddad presented his background as Vice President and Counsel at DHR Health. A McAllen Memorial High School graduate, St. Edward’s University, and Georgetown Law, Haddad highlighted his 17 years of experience in business, law, and public policy. He resides in McAllen with his husband and two children. His stated goal is to advocate for strong public schools and to serve as a liaison between the district and the community.

Rojelio Aleman II. Photo by Robert Hugo González

Also seeking Place 7, Rojelio Aleman II is a U.S. Army veteran who served in Iraq and Afghanistan. Aleman, an MISD graduate, is active in several civic organizations, including Keep McAllen Beautiful and Holy Spirit Church. He is pursuing a degree in Organizational Leadership and is committed to supporting special needs students and enhancing civic engagement within schools.

Tiffany Ramos. Photo by Roberto Hugo González

Tiffany Ramos, also a candidate for Place 7, works in the pharmaceutical and medical benefits sector, with four years of experience managing nationwide insurance plans. A McAllen ISD graduate and parent of two MISD students, Ramos prioritizes special education, staff compensation, and implementation of a comprehensive farm-to-school nutrition program. She emphasized the importance of student well-being, family support resources, and financial oversight related to pharmaceutical benefits.

The McAllen Citizens League, established in 1952, is a non-sectarian and non-partisan organization that provides members with information on civic, educational, governmental, cultural, and community affairs. Membership dues are $20 annually and can be paid at any MCL meeting.

Harlingen Mayor Urges Presidential Disaster Declaration Following Historic Storm

Roberto H. Gonzalez
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Harlingen Mayor Urges Presidential Disaster Declaration Following Historic Storm
In an honest and urgent request to the nation’s highest office, Mayor Norma Sepulveda of Harlingen has called on President Donald J. Trump to issue a Presidential Disaster Declaration. Courtesy image
In an honest and urgent request to the nation’s highest office, Mayor Norma Sepulveda of Harlingen has called on President Donald J. Trump to issue a Presidential Disaster Declaration. Courtesy image

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By Roberto Hugo González

Harlingen, Texas – In an honest and urgent request to the nation’s highest office, Mayor Norma Sepulveda of Harlingen has called on President Donald J. Trump to issue a Presidential Disaster Declaration, following one of the most catastrophic storms in the city’s history. The appeal comes after an unprecedented deluge on March 26, 2025, that dropped nearly 22 inches of rain in a matter of hours, leaving vast portions of the city underwater and thousands of families devastated.

In a formal letter sent to the White House on April 24, Mayor Sepulveda painted a traumatic picture of the destruction left behind.

“Streets became rivers. Families were forced to flee in the middle of the night,” she wrote. “Harlingen is resilient, but we are hurting. Please do not let another day go by without action.”

Entire neighborhoods, public buildings, schools, and businesses have been damaged or destroyed. Harlingen’s flat geography and lack of natural water runoff caused drainage systems to collapse under the pressure, offering little protection as homes quickly filled with water. Emergency shelters filled within hours, and many residents remain displaced with no clear timeline for return.

The Mayor’s plea is backed by Texas Governor Greg Abbott, who submitted the official request for a disaster declaration on April 17, and U.S. Senator John Cornyn, who echoed the urgency in a separate letter dated April 18. Despite these efforts, federal aid has yet to arrive, prompting the mayor’s direct appeal to the President.

“They placed their trust in their city. In their state. And in their nation,” Sepulveda wrote. “Now is the time to show them that trust was not misplaced.”

The requested federal support would unlock vital resources: temporary housing, emergency funding, public infrastructure restoration, and long-term recovery planning. Without it, Mayor Sepulveda warned that the city would struggle to rebuild and that residents would continue to suffer.

This isn’t just a call for assistance — it’s a cry for solidarity from a city known as the Capital of the Lower Rio Grande Valley. Mayor Sepulveda is standing at the front lines, not only as a public official but also as a compassionate advocate for every family who has lost their home, livelihood, and sense of normalcy.

“I’ve hugged children who lost everything,” she said. “Every day without help makes hope harder to hold onto.”

Harlingen now waits — not with resignation, but with resilience — for a response that could change the course of its recovery.

For updates on Harlingen’s recovery efforts, visit cityofharlingen.com.

See letter below:

Courtesy image

The One and Only Tania Viveros!

Roberto H. Gonzalez
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The One and Only Tania Viveros!
Tania Viveros, the visionary curator behind MXLAN’s vibrant visual art scene, strikes a confident pose for Texas Border Business — a fearless leader transforming culture, one mural at a time. Photo by Roberto Hugo González
Tania Viveros, the visionary curator behind MXLAN’s vibrant visual art scene, strikes a confident pose for Texas Border Business — a fearless leader transforming culture, one mural at a time. Photo by Roberto Hugo González

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By Roberto Hugo González

McAllen, where vibrant traditions meet visionary art, one name echoes louder than the music, brighter than the murals, and bolder than the fireworks: Tania Viveros — the one and only.

As the Curator Artist for Earth at this year’s MXLAN, Tania Viveros isn’t just painting a picture — she’s orchestrating a cultural explosion.

Back again for her third consecutive year, Viveros has become the soul behind the visual storytelling of MXLAN, the festival that transforms McAllen into a living canvas each May. Her curatorial magic lies not just in selecting artists, but in empowering them. From emerging visionaries to seasoned muralists, Viveros ensures every brushstroke feels like home.

“It’s about more than just murals,” she says. “It’s about ensuring these artists are comfortable enough to paint for the city. I create the space where art breathes.”

A New Era of Art: Interactive, Immersive, Unforgettable. This year, she’s not just elevating — she’s revolutionizing.

Get ready for interactive murals that blend technology with tradition. Imagine vibrant panels that respond to touch, movement, or sound, inviting you to not only see the art, but feel it. And for the first time ever, Viveros herself will debut a community installation, offering a personal, immersive experience that’s never been done before at MXLAN.

“We’re in the peak of all the creative juices right now,” she smiles. “And this year, MXLAN will shine brighter than ever.”

From Street Chalk to Scented Signatures. Beyond MXLAN, Tania’s artistic journey is unstoppable. From engraving perfume bottles for luxury brands in McAllen, Brownsville, and Laredo, to chalk art that lights up the streets of Edinburg, and public murals transforming Pharr — her fingerprints are across the Valley.

“A few years ago, I was just dreaming of this,” she reflects. “Now I’m paving roads for the next generation of artists — and that’s everything.”

As an artist, mentor, educator, and community leader, Tania Viveros represents the beating heart of MXLAN — a living reminder that art isn’t just a spectacle, it’s a movement.

To the people of McAllen and the Rio Grande Valley: this is your moment to show up. Come celebrate culture, color, and connection at MXLAN 2025, May 9–11, at the McAllen Convention Center. Support the artists. Experience the murals. Witness the installations. And meet the one woman behind it all.

“Thank you to the city of McAllen for your love and support,” Tania says. 

STC Hosts Texas National Guard for Tactical Training

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STC Hosts Texas National Guard for Tactical Training
STC’s Regional Center for Public Safety Excellence recently welcomed more than 100 members of the Texas Military Department for a full day of hands-on training designed to enhance their readiness and tactical response. Courtesy photo from the Texas Military Department
STC’s Regional Center for Public Safety Excellence recently welcomed more than 100 members of the Texas Military Department for a full day of hands-on training designed to enhance their readiness and tactical response. Courtesy photo from the Texas Military Department

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By Selene Rodriguez

South Texas College’s Regional Center for Public Safety Excellence (RCPSE) recently welcomed more than 100 members of the Texas Military Department for a full day of hands-on training designed to enhance their readiness and tactical response. 

Image courtesy of Texas Military Department

With the help of the facility’s cutting-edge resources and advanced real-world scenario simulation technology, the soldiers—who are all members of the Texas National Guard, a reserve component of both the U.S. Army and Air Force—participated in immersive exercises designed to enhance defensive tactics, weapon retention and decision-making in simulated high-pressure situations. 

Image courtesy of Texas Military Department

“We are honored to serve as a regional hub for public safety education, supporting those who dedicate their lives to protecting others,” said Robert Vela Jr., site administrator of STC’s RCPSE in Pharr. “As an educational institution, our primary mission is to provide exceptional training that equips not only our students, but also our community and first responders to tackle the real-world challenges they face every day.”

During a full day of immersive training, the agency had the opportunity to utilize STC’s state-of-the-art shooting simulation system, technology regularly used by the college’s Police Academy and for the professional development of law enforcement agencies. 

The simulator allowed participants to practice critical thinking and decision-making under high-stress scenarios, making it a standout experience for many attendees.

Staff Sergeant Derek Gutierrez, part of the Public Affairs Office for Task Force East under Operation Lone Star, expressed his appreciation for the support provided by STC.

“This is a great facility. They helped us with everything we needed, from simulation technology to classrooms and mats for combative training. It’s a unique space that undoubtedly helps us sharpen and enhance our skills,” he said. “Our team was excited because many of them were able to practice skills they hadn’t used since basic training. That’s what we’re here for, to improve and stay ready for any emergency.”

Senior Airman Andrew Vazquez from Houston, Texas, echoed that sentiment, emphasizing how the realistic scenarios prepared him for real-world threats.

“This is definitely one of the most hands-on training experiences I’ve had. I’m really enjoying it and appreciate how it’s building my confidence,” he said. “I’m fairly new to the mission and haven’t had many hands-on opportunities yet. This training is helping me gain that confidence and understand exactly what to do when the time comes, especially if our team is ever under attack.”

Regarding the partnership, Vela emphasized the center’s ongoing commitment to supporting the development of law enforcement officers, firefighters, emergency responders and military personnel like the Texas National Guard by providing critical resources and assistance to the community.

From live fire exercises and specialized rescue simulations to cutting-edge equipment in law enforcement, the RCPSE ensures that both students and seasoned professionals receive the practical experience necessary to perform their duties safely and effectively.

“Through innovative programs and strategic partnerships, our facility continues to play a vital role in preparing the next generation of public safety professionals,” he said. “We take pride in our ability to meet the evolving needs of our communities in public safety.”

STC’s RCPSE offers a wide range of professional development opportunities year-round, ensuring that first responders are consistently equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary to face the challenges of today and tomorrow. 

For more information on Public Safety Training or Law Enforcement programs at STC, visit southtexascollege.edu/rcpse/ or call 956-872-4203.

Edinburg EDC’s FLIP Program Wins National Award

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Edinburg EDC’s FLIP Program Wins National Award
The Edinburg Economic Development Corporation (EEDC) is proud to announce that Business Facilities magazine has named its Facade and Lot Improvement Program (FLIP) a 2025 Economic Development Organization (EDO) Award winner. Courtesy image
The Edinburg Economic Development Corporation (EEDC) is proud to announce that Business Facilities magazine has named its Facade and Lot Improvement Program (FLIP) a 2025 Economic Development Organization (EDO) Award winner. Courtesy image

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EDINBURG, Texas – The Edinburg Economic Development Corporation (EEDC) is proud to announce that Business Facilities magazine has named its Facade and Lot Improvement Program (FLIP) a 2025 Economic Development Organization (EDO) Award winner.

This prestigious national award honors innovative and impactful economic development initiatives across the country. Edinburg EDC’s FLIP Program earned recognition in the Mid-Sized EDO category (population 100,000–500,000) for its effectiveness in helping local businesses improve their properties and strengthen Edinburg’s economic landscape.

Courtesy image

In 2024, the Edinburg EDC dedicated $400,000 to the FLIP Program, assisting 37 businesses with enhancements to building facades, parking lots, signage, and accessibility features. 

“Receiving this award is a reflection of the hard work and collaboration between our team and the small businesses we serve,” said Raudel Garza, Executive Director of the Edinburg EDC. “FLIP is about more than just property improvements — it’s about investing in the heart of Edinburg and ensuring our businesses are positioned for long-term success.”

Aaron Rivera, President of the EEDC Board, added, “This recognition shows what’s possible when we invest in our small business community. The FLIP Program is helping to revitalize key areas of our city, and we’re proud to support programs that build a stronger Edinburg from the ground up.”

By supporting visible property improvements, the program helps small businesses attract more customers, revitalizes commercial corridors, and fosters community pride.

“FLIP is a shining example of how strategic investment in our local businesses leads to meaningful change,” said Edinburg Mayor Ramiro Garza Jr. “This award highlights our city’s commitment to supporting entrepreneurs, creating a vibrant business environment, and driving economic opportunity for all Edinburg residents.”

Now in its third year, the annual EDO Awards are presented by Business Facilities, a leading site selection and economic development publication. A total of 27 programs were selected nationwide for the 2025 honors. Winners will be featured in the May/June issue of Business Facilities magazine.

Governor Promotes Bail Reform at Texas Border Sheriff’s Coalition Conference

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Governor Promotes Bail Reform at Texas Border Sheriff’s Coalition Conference
 Governor Greg Abbott emphasized the need to fix Texas’ deadly and broken bail system and highlighted the continued state and local partnership to secure the border during the Texas Border Sheriff’s Coalition’s 20th Annual Spring meeting in Austin. Photo: Office of The Governor
 Governor Greg Abbott emphasized the need to fix Texas’ deadly and broken bail system and highlighted the continued state and local partnership to secure the border during the Texas Border Sheriff’s Coalition’s 20th Annual Spring meeting in Austin. Photo: Office of The Governor

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AUSTIN — Governor Greg Abbott emphasized the need to fix Texas’ deadly and broken bail system and highlighted the continued state and local partnership to secure the border during the Texas Border Sheriff’s Coalition’s 20th Annual Spring meeting in Austin.

Photo: Office of The Governor

“Sheriffs have been the brave law enforcement officers tasked with keeping their communities safe and secure,” said Governor Abbott. “From traffic stops to protecting neighborhoods to securing our border, you help Texans each and every day. It is time to get to work to tackle the deadly and broken bail system we face in Texas. Too many judges grant repeat offenders two, three, and 16 chances that they do not deserve. A problem that you must deal with as sheriffs. Whether it’s helping secure the border, patrolling the streets, or dealing with career criminals, sheriffs are the unsung heroes of law enforcement.”

Photo: Office of The Governor

During his remarks, Governor Abbott thanked Texas sheriffs for their dedication to ensure the safety of Texans and defend the state from the former Biden Administration’s border crisis. The Governor also noted the role that border sheriffs continue to play in Operation Lone Star, including helping seize enough fentanyl to kill every man, woman, and child in the United States, Canada, and Mexico combined. Additionally, Governor Abbott highlighted efforts to arrest thousands of dangerous criminals, including drug cartel members, human smugglers, and even criminals who murdered law enforcement officers.

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