Packages containing 115 pounds of methamphetamine seized by CBP officers at Colombia-Solidarity Bridge. USCBP image
Texas Border Business
LAREDO, Texas—U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Office of Field Operations officers assigned to the Colombia-Solidarity Bridge seized alleged methamphetamine that totaled over $1,000,000 in street value.
“Frontline CBP officers at the Colombia-Solidarity Bridge demonstrated exceptional effort in successfully disrupting this drug smuggling attempt,” said Port Director Alberto Flores, Laredo Port of Entry. “This drug bust is a prime example of the efficient targeting strategies utilized in the passenger environment to help combat the flow of dangerous narcotics seeping into our communities.”
The seizure occurred on April 14 at the Colombia-Solidarity Bridge, when a CBP officer referred a 65-year-old Mexican citizen driving a 2005 Town and Country Chrysler van for secondary inspection. Following a canine and nonintrusive inspection system examination, CBP officers discovered 28 packages containing a total of 115.52 pounds of alleged methamphetamine within the driver’s personal belongings.
There has been a lot of tension—and a long list of concerns raised by the U.S. Here’s a rundown of some of the key issues the U.S. (and many in the West) have accused China of doing over the years, particularly in ways that hurt American interests. Images: Public Domain via Wikimedia Commons. Bgd for illustration purposes
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Yeah, that’s a big conversation. When it comes to U.S.-China relations, especially before, during, and after President Trump’s administration, there’s been a lot of tension—and a long list of concerns raised by the U.S. Here’s a rundown of some of the key issues the U.S. (and many in the West) have accused China of doing over the years, particularly in ways that hurt American interests:
1. Intellectual Property Theft
One of the most serious and longstanding issues.
U.S. companies and government agencies have accused China of systematically stealing trade secrets, patented technology, and software.
According to a 2017 report by the U.S. IP Commission, IP theft by China costs the U.S. between $225 billion and $600 billion annually.
2. Cyber Espionage
Numerous hacking incidents have been traced back to Chinese state-sponsored actors.
High-profile breaches include:
The 2015 Office of Personnel Manage (OPM) breach, where personal data of over 20 million U.S. federal employees was stolen.
Attacks on companies like Equifax, Anthem, and various defense contractors.
3. Forced Technology Transfers
U.S. firms wanting to do business in China have often been forced to share their technology with local partners as a condition of market entry.
This undermines the competitive advantage of American innovation and benefits Chinese firms unfairly.
4. Unfair Trade Practices
Heavy state subsidies to Chinese companies, dumping goods at below-market prices, and manipulating currency are frequent complaints.
Trump’s administration responded with sweeping tariffs during the U.S.-China trade war.
5. Human Rights Violations (Impacting U.S. Policy and Trade)
The U.S. has imposed sanctions on Chinese officials and companies tied to human rights abuses in Xinjiang(Uyghur Muslims) and Hong Kong.
American companies have faced pressure for doing business with Chinese firms linked to surveillance and repression.
6. Military Aggression and Espionage
There are concerns over China’s growing military presence in the South China Sea and espionage targeting U.S. military and academic institutions.
Allegations of spies infiltrating American universities and even politicians’ circles (e.g., the case involving Rep. Eric Swalwell and a suspected Chinese spy).
7. Supply Chain Manipulation
Over-reliance on China for critical goods (like pharmaceuticals, rare earth elements, and electronics) became a national security concern during COVID-19.
The push to bring manufacturing back to the U.S. is partially a response to this.
8. Influence Operations
Through Confucius Institutes, media control, and lobbying, China has tried to influence U.S. public opinion, academia, and politics.
The Department of Justice launched the China Initiative to investigate Chinese influence and espionage in the U.S., although it was later criticized for its implementation.
9. COVID-19 Transparency Issues
Many in the U.S., including Trump, criticized China’s lack of transparency during the early stages of the COVID-19 outbreak.
Accusations included hiding the severity, silencing whistleblowers, and delaying global response efforts.
So, when China demands “more respect,” many Americans (and others around the world) counter with, “Well, respect is earned.” Many argue it starts with stopping practices that harm other nations.
Addition information:
OPM stands for the Office of Personnel Management. It’s a U.S. government agency that manages the civilian federal workforce. Basically, it’s like the federal government’s HR department.
What does OPM do?
Manages federal employee records
Oversees hiring and benefits for federal workers
Handles background checks and security clearances
Why it matters (especially in the context of China):
In 2015, OPM was the victim of a massive cyberattack—believed to be carried out by hackers linked to China. The breach exposed sensitive personal data of over 20 million people, including:
Social Security numbers
Fingerprints
Background check information
Details on friends, family, and foreign contacts
That kind of data can be gold for foreign intelligence—used to track, recruit, or blackmail U.S. government employees.
So, when people bring up OPM in the context of China and cybersecurity, it’s shorthand for one of the most damaging hacks in U.S. history.
Additional Information:
OPM stands for the Office of Personnel Management. It’s a U.S. government agency that manages the civilian federal workforce. It’s like the federal government’s HR department.
What does OPM do?
Manages federal employee records
Oversees hiring and benefits for federal workers
Handles background checks and security clearances
Why it matters (especially in the context of China):
In 2015, OPM was the victim of a massive cyberattack—believed to be carried out by hackers linked to China. The breach exposed sensitive personal data of over 20 million people, including:
Social Security numbers
Fingerprints
Background check information
Details on friends, family, and foreign contacts
That kind of data can be gold for foreign intelligence—used to track, recruit, or blackmail U.S. government employees.
So when people bring up OPM in the context of China and cybersecurity, it’s shorthand for one of the most damaging hacks in U.S. history.
Governor Greg Abbott congratulated NVIDIA on the announced construction of two supercomputer manufacturing facilities in Texas, in partnership with Foxconn in Houston and with Wistron in Dallas. Production at both facilities is expected to ramp up in 12-15 months. Image: Public Domain. Bgd for illustration purposes
Texas Border Business
AUSTIN – Governor Greg Abbott congratulated NVIDIA on the announced construction of two supercomputer manufacturing facilities in Texas, in partnership with Foxconn in Houston and with Wistron in Dallas. Production at both facilities is expected to ramp up in 12-15 months.
“Texas is where the future of innovation is building,” said Governor Abbott. “I congratulate NVIDIA on their Texas-sized investment in Houston and Dallas in support of their first-ever all-American-made AI supercomputers. Texas leads the nation in semiconductor manufacturing and advancements in technology. As demand for technologies powered by artificial intelligence continues to grow, we will work with industry leaders from around the globe to accelerate production, ensure supply chain resilience, and lead the American resurgence in advanced manufacturing from Texas.”
Read more about NVIDIA’s announced investment in Texas.
High school students from Rio Grande City Grulla ISD work on a Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machine recently at South Texas College’s Pecan Campus. A long-standing and historic partnership between South Texas College’s Dual Credit Programs and Rio Grande City Grulla ISD is preparing students for careers in manufacturing and industry. STC image
Texas Border Business
RIO GRANDE CITY, Texas – A long-standing and historic partnership between South Texas College’s Dual Credit Programs and Rio Grande City Grulla ISD is preparing students for careers in manufacturing and industry.
As the Dual Credit Program celebrates 25 years in 2025, its partnership with the district is a testament to the amazing impact the program has had in preparing young students for rewarding careers before they even graduate high school.
Sixteen students from Rio Grande City High School are among those taking dual credit courses in Advanced Manufacturing Technology at STC’s Starr County campus.
Senior Alejandro Chapa, 18, said once he became a junior, he jumped at the chance to begin earning college credit.
Now, Chapa said an opportunity to learn a trade in manufacturing is an opportunity to change people’s lives as he considers a future as an entrepreneur and inventor.
Currently set to graduate this May with a certificate in Precision Manufacturing, Chapa said the skills he has acquired, from drafting parts and seeing them come to life through technology, is inspiring him to make a difference in the world. He plans to come back to STC and get his associate degree while also finding experience in the field.
STC image
“This is important to me because I enjoy the pursuit of progress and innovation. I am just fascinated by all the things we can accomplish in this world, and I want to be a part of that change. I want to be able to make a difference in people’s lives with what I do,” Chapa said. “With my experience here at STC, I am able to create my ideas using technology and then bring them to life with the skills the college has given me. This has been a great experience. It’s all hands-on and you get to learn so much in the process. It’s such an amazing opportunity to be able to earn college credit, graduate from STC and maybe even find a career right out of high school.”
Twenty-five years ago, STC introduced its Dual Credit Programs to the Rio Grande Valley community. Today, the program has emerged as a national leader and the only in Texas to be accredited by the National Alliance of Concurrent Enrollment Partnerships (NACEP) serving 21 partnering school districts and students from more than 70 partnering schools like Rio Grande City Grulla ISD.
STC image
Across more than two decades of excellence, STC’s Dual Credit program has served more than 145,000 students and saved RGV families over $450 million dollars in tuition.
“The partnership between the South Texas College Dual Credit Programs and Rio Grande City Grulla ISD exemplifies our commitment to providing students with valuable educational opportunities,” said Associate Vice President of Dual Credit Programs and School District Partnerships Rebecca De Leon, Ed.D. “This collaboration allows us to equip dual credit students with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in today’s competitive job market. By fostering such partnerships, we pave the way for a brighter future for our students and community.”
Dual Credit Programs students taking Advanced Manufacturing at STC are all on track to receive a certificate in Precision Manufacturing Technology once they graduate from high school and are then able to return to STC to complete their Precision Manufacturing Technology Associate of Applied Science within a year.
While taking classes at STC, students learn marketable skills including blueprint reading, mill and lathe work and the understanding of the mathematics behind the trade.
“We are incredibly proud of our students in the Advanced Manufacturing program and truly grateful for our partnership with STC,” said Rio Grande City-Grulla ISD Superintendent Guadalupe Garza. “This dual credit opportunity is more than just a head start. It provides our students with real-world experience, confidence and a sense of purpose. As superintendent, it means everything to see our students gaining the skills and confidence to create genuine opportunities for themselves and their families.”
STC trustee and Starr County Industrial Foundation President Rose Benavidez said the partnership between STC’s Dual Credit Program and the district is a benefit for those who work in industry.
“All of us at South Texas College have always prided ourselves on being in tune with industry needs and wants in order to get them that skilled workforce, so the idea that we are able to set a foundation to teach someone not just soft skills but actual trades they can take into a career is something that we are absolutely thrilled about,” Benavidez said. “There has been a lot of talk about apprenticeships and how to begin that training from a young age, and I think what we have learned is that companies see true value in someone when they not only learn on the job, but when they have industry-recognized skills going in. It makes it so much easier for our graduates to find a job, but more importantly for them to keep it.”
Rio Grande City High School senior Leo Alonzo said he is also taking advanced manufacturing courses in high school to prepare him for an engineering degree after he graduates. Like Chapa, he said he also plans to return to STC after he graduates high school to further his education.
“My goal is to enter a career in engineering and when I saw that the Precision Manufacturing program was looking for students, I jumped at the chance to gain the necessary experience in STEM to get there. I decided this was the perfect opportunity to jumpstart my future in engineering by being introduced into things like mechatronics, manufacturing and electrical work. I think programs within dual credit, just like this one, really help students like me get that experience early on, which then helps us get ahead into a future we can be proud of.”
Selena Quintanilla-Pérez. Photo by @selenalaleyenda, via Facebook
Texas Border Business
By Roberto Hugo González
WASHINGTON, D.C. – In celebration of “Selena Day” and to honor the legacy of one of South Texas’s most beloved cultural icons, Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz (TX-15) has introduced the Selena Commemorative Coin Act. The legislation seeks to recognize Selena Quintanilla-Pérez’s lasting impact on music, culture, and American history by authorizing the U.S. Mint to issue a commemorative coin in her name.
“Selena Quintanilla-Pérez is remembered as ‘The Queen of Tejano’ for her passion, talent, and music that changed the industry forever. Selena inspired millions by elevating Tejano music to the mainstream and shattering glass ceilings. Honoring her with a coin is more than symbolic; it’s a step forward in recognizing her contributions to American history and keeping her memory alive for generations,” said Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz.
The proposed coin would celebrate Selena’s legacy as a groundbreaking artist who brought Tejano music to international prominence. Born in Lake Jackson, Texas, and raised in Corpus Christi, Selena’s influence exploded in the early 1990s. Her 1994 album Amor Prohibido became one of the best-selling Latin albums in the United States, and her posthumous 1995 English-language debut Dreaming of You topped the Billboard 200 chart — a historic feat for a Latin artist then.
April 16, Selena’s birthday, is recognized as Selena Day in Texas and continues to be commemorated by fans throughout the Rio Grande Valley and worldwide.
Selena’s life was tragically cut short at age 23, but her legacy continues to flourish through multiple generations. Her achievements include a Grammy Award, a Hollywood Walk of Fame star, a namesake museum in Corpus Christi, and numerous tributes across film, television, and music. Her signature songs like Como La Flor, Bidi Bidi Bom Bom, and No Me Queda Más remain cultural staples to day.
In addition to her musical success, Selena was also a fashion entrepreneur, role model, and advocate for education. Her story remains a symbol of perseverance, talent, and the enduring spirit of the Latino community.
If passed, the Selena Commemorative Coin Act would represent a significant national acknowledgment of her cultural impact, preserving her memory not only in hearts and playlists but also in the history of the United States.
The Biden Administration’s legacy of lawlessness will be eradicated one victory after the next,” said Attorney General Paxton. Image for illustration purposes
Texas Border Business
AUSTIN – Attorney General Ken Paxton successfully blocked a Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (“CMS”) rule adopted by the Biden Administration that attempted to rewrite federal law and force expensive and onerous regulations on nursing homes, threatening to force many facilities in Texas to close.
“This is a massive victory for the Texans who rely on nursing homes for care, ensuring that no facilities have to close their doors because of Biden’s burdensome regulations. The Biden Administration’s legacy of lawlessness will be eradicated one victory after the next,” said Attorney General Paxton. “I sued Biden more than 100 times and will continue to aggressively fight to prevent the arbitrary and unlawful edicts issued by his deep state bureaucrats from taking effect.”
In 2024, Attorney General Paxton sued the Biden Administration to stop a CMS rule that could have caused many rural nursing homes to shut down, displacing elderly citizens, including those residing in memory care facilities. Despite having no authority to do so, the Biden Administration sought to arbitrarily dictate changes to federal law. Now, a federal judge has granted Attorney General Paxton’s request to vacate the unlawful rule.
U.S. District Judge Jeffrey V. Brown has now ordered Edwards to serve 156 months to be immediately followed by three years of supervised release. Image for illustration purposes
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U.S. Attorney’s Office, Southern District of Texas
GALVESTON, Texas – A 46-year-old Texas City resident has been ordered to federal prison for possession with intent to distribute fentanyl.
John Earl Edwards pleaded guilty Sept. 24, 2024.
U.S. District Judge Jeffrey V. Brown has now ordered Edwards to serve 156 months to be immediately followed by three years of supervised release.
“Taking fentanyl off the street is good, but taking a fentanyl dealer off the street is even better,” said Ganjei. “This is one less person who makes their living off of the misery of their fellow citizens.”
On July 22, 2021, Edwards negotiated the sale of a small amount of fentanyl and arranged to have it delivered on July 22, 2021.
The investigation revealed Edwards’ drug distribution also included cocaine, cocaine base and methamphetamine.
He was permitted to remain on bond and voluntarily surrender to a Federal Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.
The FBI’s Safe Streets and Violent Crimes Task Force and the La Marque Police Department conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Cusick prosecuted the case.
Attorney General Ken Paxton is expanding his investigation into EPIC City, which is affiliated with East Plano Islamic Center (“EPIC”), by demanding documents from local city officials potentially tied to the real estate development. Image: Public Domain
Texas Border Business
AUSTIN – Attorney General Ken Paxton is expanding his investigation into EPIC City, which is affiliated with East Plano Islamic Center (“EPIC”), by demanding documents from local city officials potentially tied to the real estate development.
Records requests have been sent to city leaders in Plano, Richardson, and Wylie following Yasir Qadhi, an individual involved with EPIC City, claiming to have support from local officials. The development is being investigated due to potential violations of Texas state law. Additionally, a records request was sent to Josephine, Texas city officials.
The public records requests aim to acquire communications between city leaders and officials for EPIC, EPIC City, and Community Capital Partners, LP, as well as additional information related to the development. Attorney General Paxton previously issued a Civil Investigative Demand (“CID”) as part of the ongoing investigation.
“If any local official is supporting or communicating with a real estate development that is under investigation for potential violations of state law, then it’s imperative that we are made aware of exactly what’s being communicated,” said Attorney General Paxton. “We will thoroughly review these documents as part of our ongoing investigation into EPIC City and work to hold accountable anyone who breaks Texas law.”
The Brownsville Animal Regulation and Care Center (BARCC) has been named the 2025 Agency of the Year by the National Animal Care & Control Association (NACA). Courtesy image
Texas Border Business
BROWNSVILLE, Texas – The Brownsville Animal Regulation and Care Center (BARCC) has been named the 2025 Agency of the Year by the National Animal Care & Control Association (NACA). The prestigious national honor recognizes BARCC’s excellence in leadership, innovation, and dedication to compassionate animal care and public safety.
BARCC, under the City’s Public Health, Wellness and Animal Services Department, is enhancing the quality of life for animals and the community daily. It promotes responsible pet ownership, provides compassionate care for homeless animals, and ensures public safety through effective animal control services.
“As a BARCC board member, I have witnessed the transformation of this organization, becoming one of the most resilient teams serving the City of Brownsville,” said Bryan L. Martinez, City Commissioner District 1. “This national recognition is a testament to the dedication of our amazing team. The unwavering support from our citizens has propelled the animal shelter to reach unprecedented milestones through community-based programs and initiatives. The work at BARCC is important for so many reasons, and I want to thank the board and staff for their dedication.”
“The Agency of the Year Award is a moment of pride for Brownsville and a testament to the vision and tireless work of our BARCC team,” said City Manager Helen Ramirez, ICMA- CM, AICP. “It reflects our City’s deep commitment to public health, animal welfare, and innovation in service. BARCC’s leadership has transformed the quality of care locally and has helped set a new benchmark for excellence across the field. Congratulations to our Dr. Rodriguez and Dr. Caldwell.”
“This award is a reflection of the passion and dedication of every team member at BARCC,” said Dr. Arturo Rodriguez, Public Health and Wellness and Animal Care Director. “This recognition motivates us to keep moving forward, building trust in the community, and delivering the high standard of care that animals and residents deserve.”
“Being named NACA’s 2025 Agency of the Year affirms our belief that compassion and professionalism can go hand in hand in animal services,” said Dr. Antonio Caldwell, Deputy Director at BARCC. “We’re grateful to Dr. Rodriguez for his continued support and the City leadership for theirs.
BARCC has made significant strides in professionalizing animal services, increasing community engagement, and implementing innovative, humane practices to improve the lives of animals in the Rio Grande Valley. Its achievements have also inspired broader systemic improvements in animal care across Texas and the nation.
This honor reinforces the City’s mission to promote public wellness and create a safe, compassionate environment for all.
Formed in 1978, NACA is the largest professional association for animal care and control professionals in the United States. The award celebrates BARCC’s commitment to setting a higher standard for animal services.
To learn more about BARCC, visit www.BrownsvilleTX.gov or follow the City of Brownsville on social media.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Office of Field Operations, Laredo Port of Entry officers detained one male United States citizen wanted on an outstanding felony warrant for alleged molestation of a minor. Image for illustration purposes
Texas Border Business
LAREDO, Texas — U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Office of Field Operations, Laredo Port of Entry officers detained one male United States citizen wanted on an outstanding felony warrant for alleged molestation of a minor.
“The arrest of this individual represents a critical step in protecting our communities and ensuring that those who seek to harm minors are held accountable,” said Port Director Alberto Flores, Laredo Port of Entry. “We are proud of the collaboration between our officers and law enforcement partners that led to this significant arrest.”
The fugitive apprehension occurred on April 12 at the Juarez-Lincoln Bridge. A CBP officer inspecting a commercial bus arriving from Mexico, referred bus passenger Rafael Chica Garcia, a 19-year-old male United States citizen, for a secondary inspection. After escorting the passenger to secondary, subsequent biometric verification through law enforcement databases confirmed that the subject had an outstanding felony warrant for the alleged molestation of a minor, out of the St. Charles County Adult Detention Facility in St. Charles, Missouri. Chica Garcia was turned over to the Webb County Sheriff’s Office to await criminal proceedings.
The National Crime Information Center is a centralized automated database designed to share information among law enforcement agencies including outstanding warrants for a wide range of offenses. Based on information from NCIC, CBP officers have made previous arrests of individuals wanted for homicide, escape, money laundering, robbery, narcotics distribution, sexual child abuse, fraud, larceny, and military desertion. Criminal charges are merely allegations. Defendants are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.
