CNN reported on Wednesday, citing two sources familiar with the matter, that the U.S. Internal Revenue Service plans to rescind Harvard University’s tax-exempt status. Image Source: David Adam Kess, CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons. Logo: Public Domain via Wikimedia Commons
Texas Border Business
CNN reported on Wednesday, citing two sources familiar with the matter, that the U.S. Internal Revenue Service plans to rescind Harvard University’s tax-exempt status.
CNN added that a final decision on rescinding the university’s tax exemption is expected soon.
The report comes a day after President Donald Trump threatened to strip the university of its tax-exempt status and said Harvard should apologize after rejecting unlawful demands to overhaul academic programs or lose federal grants.
From another source, the House Ways and Means Committee, led by Chairman Jason Smith, has also questioned whether elite universities like Harvard are fulfilling their educational purposes, especially in light of concerns about antisemitism on campus. The committee has requested detailed information from several universities regarding their actions to protect Jewish students and their sources of foreign funding.
Jim and Kathy Collins. Image by Roberto Hugo González
Texas Border Business
By Roberto Hugo González
McAllen, Texas – In a ceremony steeped in legacy, culture, and community spirit, Jim and Kathy Collins were named the 2025 Border Texans of the Year in a decisive moment that marked a continuation and evolution of one of South Texas’s most cherished traditions. The announcement came during a special event at the McAllen Convention Center, where civic leaders, honorees, and community members gathered to celebrate the history and future of the Border Texan of the Year Gala—this time, officially merging with the culturally vibrant MXLAN festival.
John David Franz opened the event by honoring the tradition’s origins. “Thirty-six years ago, this idea came up in the small community of Hidalgo,” Franz recalled, invoking the names of the local visionaries who founded the tradition in 1989. “It’s come a long way… This event has recognized exceptional leadership in education, healthcare, infrastructure, economic development, community growth, and more.”
The merger of two powerful cultural platforms—The Border Texan of the Year Gala and MXLAN—was framed as a generational bridge, as McAllen City Commissioner Pepe Cabeza de Vaca emphasized. “It’s an exciting day, not only for McAllen but for the entire Rio Grande Valley,” he said. “We all witnessed the union of two powerful cultural events. One steeped in tradition, the other igniting the spirit of a new generation.”
Cabeza de Vaca explained that the fusion of these two events represents more than logistical convenience—it symbolizes unity and forward momentum. “Together, the Border Texan Gala and MXLAN create a platform that spans generations,” he said. “One celebrates those who laid the foundation. The other invites us to nurture the leaders of tomorrow. Tradition and innovation are not separate—they are stronger together.”
The tone was equally celebratory and reflective as McAllen City Manager Isaac Tawil took the stage. “This year, the Collins… we have come so far,” he said. “We have achieved what many thought was unachievable for our region. Because of visionaries like Jim and Kathy, we continue to grow, not just to thrive, but to break boundaries.”
Dr. Guy Bailey, the 2019 Border Texan of the Year, was honored to announce the 2025 recipients. His words painted a picture of two individuals who represent the very best of South Texas leadership. “Jim and Kathy represent everything this honor stands for,” Bailey said. “Their work has strengthened our communities through business leadership, transformative civic partnerships, and deeply personal acts of generosity.”
Bailey described Jim Collins as a driving force in economic development and infrastructure advancement, consistently reminding others that “we’re stronger together than apart.” Kathy, he noted, has been equally powerful in the realm of community service, “supporting causes that enrich lives, inspire creativity, and expand opportunities for women, children, and families.”
Then came the honorees’ voices—humble, grateful, and deeply rooted in the values that define the Rio Grande Valley.
“On behalf of Kathy and myself,” Jim Collins began, “we want to say how incredibly honored and humbled we are. This moment means the world to us.” He reflected on his journey, acknowledging not only his family—five children and fifteen grandchildren—but also the many business and civic partners who have supported their shared vision. “This recognition isn’t just for the two of us. It reflects the many people, organizations, and partnerships that have shaped and shared our journey.”
Jim highlighted that this honor goes beyond accolades. “To be named Border Texans of the Year is a tremendous honor because it is rooted in something bigger. It’s about lifting each other up so that we can all thrive together.”
Kathy Collins took the stage with equal sincerity and a deep sense of purpose. “This year is so special,” she said. “Not only are we returning to celebrate the legacy of this award that was first started in 1989, but we’re doing it as part of MXLAN—a festival that shows the spirit, culture, and pride of South Texas.”
She expressed gratitude for the event’s philanthropic component. “Jim and I wish to thank the Board of Texan Committee for allowing the gala night’s proceeds to be used for several great causes,” she said, listing organizations such as the McAllen Performing Arts, Benny Cook Cancer Foundation, Quinta Mazatlan, South Texas College Foundation, and UTRGV Foundation.
“To our family, friends, and colleagues—thank you for always standing beside us. To the Rio Grande Valley people, thank you for letting us be a part of something even larger,” she concluded. “We are truly honored.”
As the event wound down, Franz reminded guests of the date for the upcoming gala: May 8th at the McAllen Convention Center. With tables and sponsorship packages now available, he encouraged community members to participate in a night that promises to blend tradition, innovation, and heartfelt celebration.
The legacy of the Border Texan of the Year lives on—not just in its past honorees, but in the lives and futures they continue to shape. Jim and Kathy Collins, in both word and action, represent the spirit of the Rio Grande Valley: service-oriented, future-focused, and deeply human.
Governor Greg Abbott congratulated the Texas House of Representatives for providing record public education funding by passing House Bill 2. Image for illustration purposes
Texas Border Business
AUSTIN – Governor Greg Abbott congratulated the Texas House of Representatives for providing record public education funding by passing House Bill 2.
“The Texas House took a monumental step to increase education funding and teacher pay raises that puts Texas on the path to education excellence for our students,” said Governor Abbott. “Since I have been Governor, public education funding and average teacher pay have reached all-time highs and, now, House Bill 2 will add $7.7 billion more to fund a high-quality education for the next generation of Texas leaders. I thank Speaker Dustin Burrows and Chairman Brad Buckley for their steadfast leadership, and I look forward to signing this bill into law.”
Touring the Foodbank in Pharr Texas. Courtesy image
Texas Border Business
By Roberto Hugo González
McAllen, Texas – Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz (TX-15) focused on two key challenges facing South Texans—food insecurity and labor shortages in agriculture—during a visit to the Rio Grande Valley Food Bank and a roundtable discussion with South Texas farmers.
Farmers roundtable. Courtesy image
Congresswoman De La Cruz toured the Rio Grande Valley Food Bank, the seventh-largest food bank in Texas, where she met with staff and volunteers to understand better the scope of hunger and food insecurity in the region. The food bank is vital in distributing meals, offering nutrition education, and connecting individuals to community services across South Texas.
Key Problems Identified:
Rising Food Insecurity: With inflation and ongoing economic hardship, more families rely on food banks to meet basic needs.
Limited Resources: Despite the food bank’s reach, it faces challenges in funding, food supply, and staffing to meet growing demand.
Access to Nutrition Education: Many families lack knowledge about healthy food options and preparation, leading to long-term health issues.
In a separate engagement, Congresswoman De La Cruz brought together South Texas farmers and agricultural producers for a roundtable discussion on the H-2A visa program. This federal program allows U.S. employers to hire foreign nationals for temporary agricultural jobs, which are an essential part of the labor force in South Texas.
Key Problems Identified:
Administrative Burden: Farmers have previously voiced frustration with the complex and often delayed process of securing H-2A workers.
Worker Shortages: Many farms operate with fewer hands than needed, threatening productivity and economic stability.
Visa Cap and Inflexibility: Seasonal visa limitations don’t always align with regional harvesting timelines, making planning difficult for producers.
Congresswoman De La Cruz, a member of the House Agriculture Committee, emphasized her commitment to championing policies that support food security and the agricultural workforce.
Her visit emphasizes the interconnectedness of community well-being and a strong agricultural economy, and her actions signal a continued focus on solutions rooted in local input.
Two illegal aliens were recently sentenced in United States District Court Southern District of Texas in McAllen after pleading guilty to assaulting Border Patrol agents. Image for illustration purposes
Texas Border Business
McAllen, Texas – Two illegal aliens were recently sentenced in United States District Court Southern District of Texas in McAllen after pleading guilty to assaulting Border Patrol agents.
The first incident occurred on November 23, 2024, when Dunia Yaneth CALDERON-Aguilar, an illegal alien from Honduras, was apprehended by Border Patrol agents near Rio Grande City, Texas. During the arrest, CALDERON-Aguilar bit the agent on his hand causing injury.
CALDERON-Aguilar was charged with Assault on a Federal Officer (18 USC 111) and Re-entry of Removed Aliens (8 USC 1326). She pled guilty and was sentenced on April 10, 2025, to 12 months and one day in prison.
In a separate incident on December 9, 2024, near Rio Grande City, Texas, agents encountered a group of illegal aliens attempting to hide in the backyard of a residence after crossing the Rio Grande. As agents attempted to take the subjects into custody, Amilcar Antonio FABIAN-Mancia, a national of El Salvador, became combative by throwing elbow strikes at the agents causing injury. FABIAN-Mancia was charged with Assault of a Federal Officer (18 USC 111). He pled guilty and was sentenced on April 2, 2025, to 12 months and one day in federal prison.
“The sentencing of these illegal aliens sends a clear message: assaults on our Border Patrol agents will not be tolerated. Our agents put their lives on the line every day to protect this nation, any act of violence against them is an attack on the rule of law. We are grateful to our law enforcement partners and the justice system for ensuring accountability.”, stated RGV Sector Chief Gloria I. Chavez.
New Advanced Manufacturing Technology (AMT) faculty member Kranthz Esparza brings more than 30 decades of experience to South Texas College. STC image
Texas Border Business
By Joey Gomez
McALLEN, Texas – For new South Texas College Advanced Manufacturing Technology (AMT) faculty member Kranthz Esparza, his experience in the industry has culminated in a journey that has gone from shop floor to the classroom.
It began from a young age, where Esparza said he felt an attraction to machines and engineering. Always drawn to math and science, Esparza said he was fascinated by the way a product was designed and then rolled out.
From the smell of the machine shop to the tooling and operation of the various parts, Esparza said he said he found his calling early in life and never looked back.
Now after spending nearly 3 decades in industry, and as an STC Engineering alumnus, Esparza is the newest faculty member within the AMT program at STC
“I’ve been working in a machine shop all of my life and I am happy to begin sharing my experience with STC students,” Esparza said.
Beginning in his father’s shop as a teenager in the ‘90s, Esparza said he then opened his own machine shop, which he operated for 18 years, creating products for the produce industry, heavy equipment and government contracts.
“I was only 14 years old when I started working in a machine shop with my dad. It was tough and it wasn’t the same as having a college instructor, but it paved the way for my career in business and then through my education,” Esparza said. “He was always drilling into my head and into my brother’s head that we had to become better than he was. I went into business, but my brother is now working at Lockheed-Martin building F-35s (jets).”
Growing up within the industry in the early ‘90s was a unique moment, according to Esparza who said he witnessed the dawn of computer numerical control (CNC) machines and software that is now standard in the industry.
Now, Esparza said manufacturing students are at the dawn of another great moment as artificial intelligence (AI) begins to make its impact felt.
“Back when I started, everything was manual. We had some CNC machines, but they were barely developing, and the software was just basic AutoCAD. Now we have Fusion and SolidWorks and so many other software programs that this new generation can take advantage of. We even have AI starting in manufacturing that is going to change everything,” he said. “Students are doing projects that used to take six weeks to complete in half the time. We couldn’t even dream of the technology back then that students have now.”
Graduating from STC with a degree in Engineering enabled him to dive head first into the technology being utilized by the industry, he said. The college also streamlined his transition into a bachelor’s degree in Manufacturing Engineering from the University of Texas-Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV), which he earned in 2024. He is currently pursuing his master’s degree from the same university.
“STC gave me opportunities that I never knew I could receive,” Esparza said. “Now that I am back, I am sure to tell my own students about the same opportunities that I qualified for while inspiring them with my own journey and the sacrifices I had to make to get where I am. You have to make good decisions in life, and that leads to positive outcomes.”
Attorney General Bondi and Education Secretary McMahon announced enforcement actions against the State of Maine for failing to protect women and girls in sports. This follows a federal investigation into Maine’s noncompliance with Title IX – a civil rights law that guarantees women and girls equal protection in education and athletics.
It is with profound sadness that we share the passing of Assistant City Manager Joe Vera earlier this morning. Joe was a visionary leader whose dedication and passion transformed McAllen into a vibrant hub of culture and community. Courtesy images
Texas Border Business
It is with profound sadness that we share the passing of Assistant City Manager Joe Vera earlier this morning. Joe was a visionary leader whose dedication and passion transformed McAllen into a vibrant hub of culture and community.
With over five decades of public service, Joe’s tenure with the City of McAllen began in 2014. He oversaw key departments such as the Convention Center Facilities, McAllen Public Library, Palm View Golf Course, and Parks and Recreation. His leadership was instrumental in positioning McAllen as a regional destination, notably through the coordination of major events like the McAllen Holiday Parade, which attracted over 240,000 attendees in 2024 and was recognized as the Best New Event by the International Festivals and Events Association in 2014. The McAllen Holiday Parade has been recognized as the World’s Best Parade eight times, the Best Parade in Texas nine times, and garnered McAllen recognition as a World Festival and Event City three times.
Joe’s commitment to curating impactful cultural experiences extended beyond city events and management. He was a past president of the Texas Festivals and Events Association and the Texas Association of Fairs and Events. His numerous accolades include inductions into the International Festivals and Events Hall of Fame and the Texas Festivals and Events Association Hall of Honor.
Beyond his professional achievements, Joe was deeply involved in community service, contributing to organizations like United Way, Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Lions Club, Boy Scouts, and 4-H. An Eagle Scout, he exemplified the values of dedication and service in every facet of his life.
Joe Vera’s legacy is etched into the very fabric of McAllen. His vision and unwavering commitment have left an indelible mark on our city. Joe would often quote PT Barnum, “The noblest art of all is making others happy.” In that sense, Joe was as an incomparable artist who brought joy to countless lives.
As we gather for the Border Texan of the Year event, another example of Joe’s visionary leadership, let us honor his memory and celebrate the immense contributions he made to our community.
We extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends, and all who were touched by his remarkable life.
The report projects that restricting renewables could drive a 14% increase in wholesale power prices by 2035—equating to a 10% jump in household power bills and up to $6.3 million in annual costs for large industrial users. Image for illustration purposes
Texas Border Business
Texas Association of Business (TAB)
AUSTIN, Texas –A new analysis by Aurora Energy Research, commissioned by the Texas Association of Business (TAB), finds that limiting renewable energy development in Texas could significantly raise costs for families and businesses while threatening the reliability of our power grid.
The report projects that restricting renewables could drive a 14% increase in wholesale power prices by 2035—equating to a 10% jump in household power bills and up to $6.3 million in annual costs for large industrial users. More alarmingly, such policies could leave as many as 620,000 homes without electricity during extreme heat events.
“As energy demand soars from artificial intelligence, data centers, industrial expansions, and population growth, Texas must continue to embrace an all-of-the-above-and-below energy strategy to remain competitive,” TAB President & CEO Glenn Hamer said. “Our continued leadership depends on reliable, affordable power—and that means keeping every tool in the toolbox to meet growing demand.”
ERCOT has leaned on a diverse mix of energy sources, including wind, solar, and battery storage, to meet Texas’ rising energy needs. The report warns that limiting renewable development could hinder new capacity additions, drive up system costs by more than $5 billion, and increase the risk of outages during peak summer months.
“Renewable energy has helped keep costs down for Texas families and made the Lone Star State a top destination for energy-intensive industries,” said Olivier Beaufils, Head of USA Central at Aurora Energy Research. “Embracing renewables alongside flexible generation sources will help maintain grid stability, lower costs, and sustain Texas’ economic momentum.”
TAB remains committed to policies that protect the grid, support innovation, and ensure that Texas remains the best state for business.
When working on the side of the road you have to be aware of your surroundings at all times, and driving through work zones requires the same amount of caution. Image courtesy of TxDOT
Texas Border Business
AUSTIN – When working on the side of the road you have to be aware of your surroundings at all times, and driving through work zones requires the same amount of caution.
Family’s tragic loss
College student Katrina Bond slowed down for traffic in a work zone on I-35 near Fort Worth when the driver of a heavy pickup truck, who admitted he had just received a text, slammed into her car. The force of the collision pushed Katrina’s car into the path of another truck. She never made it home.
Watch the TxDOt video below:
“People think this kind of tragedy won’t happen to them. I didn’t think it would happen to me,” Katrina’s mom, Kathy Bond, said. “I try to show Katrina’s picture and tell her story to as many drivers as I can. I ask them to please put all their focus on the road when they’re behind the wheel.”
Work Zone Awareness Week
In 2024, there were nearly 28,000 crashes in Texas work zones. Those crashes caused 215 deaths, a 12% increase in fatalities over the previous year. Most of the people killed in work zone crashes are drivers or their passengers.
As part of National Work Zone Awareness Week, April 21–25, TxDOT is using its Be Safe. Drive Smart. campaign to promote work zone safety and help prevent these crashes and fatalities.
“Our brave and dedicated road crews work year-round across the state, and we need drivers to stay alert in work zones to help keep them and each other safe,” TxDOT Executive Director Marc Williams said. “Work zones can mean changing and unexpected conditions as crews work on the roadway. That’s why it’s vital that all Texans plan, avoid distractions and never rush through a work zone.”
Safety tips
TxDOT reminds drivers that traffic fines double in work zones when workers are present and offers these tips for preventing crashes:
Slow down. Follow the speed limit and pay attention to road conditions. What’s safe in normal conditions may not be safe in a work zone.
Stay alert. Focus on driving, avoid distractions and put your phone away.
Watch out for road crews. Roadside workers want to get home safely too. Always follow their instructions and be mindful of construction area road signs.
Don’t tailgate. Give yourself room to stop in a hurry. Rear-end collisions are the most common type of work zone crash.
Allow extra time. Road construction can slow things down. Plan so you aren’t tempted to speed.
TxDOT also urges motorists to follow the state’s Move Over or Slow Down law, which requires drivers to move over a lane or reduce their speed to 20 mph below the posted speed limit when approaching TxDOT, emergency, law enforcement, tow truck or utility vehicles stopped on the roadside with flashing lights activated.
The Be Safe. Drive Smart. campaign is an important part of TxDOT’s Drive 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.
