Author: Isabella Cortez
Skateboarding’s Rise: Nick Holt’s Mission to Transform the Rio Grande Valley Skateboarding has rapidly evolved into a beloved sport worldwide, culminating in its inclusion in the Olympics. This past summer marked the second time the exhilarating sport graced the Olympic stage, showcasing talented athletes from all corners of the globe. Among them is Nick Holt, a local skateboarder from Edinburg, Texas, who is dedicated to spreading the word about skateboarding while making a name for himself in the competitive realm of skateboarding. The Journey Begins: A Passion for Skateboarding Nick Holt’s love affair with skateboarding began during his middle school…
Gout Versus Pseudogout: Understanding Their Impact in the Rio Grande Valley The Rio Grande Valley, a region characterized by its diverse culture and rapidly growing population, faces a unique healthcare challenge—gout and pseudogout. Understanding the distinctions between these two conditions is crucial for effective diagnosis and treatment, particularly in medically underserved communities. What is Gout? Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis caused primarily by the accumulation of uric acid crystals in the joints. It often manifests suddenly, leading to extreme pain and swelling, usually affecting the big toe. Gout is influenced by dietary choices, genetics, and the body’s ability…
AIM Media Charities Supports Food Bank of the Rio Grande Valley with Significant Donation In a noteworthy effort to combat food insecurity in southern Texas, AIM Media Charities has contributed $25,000 to the Food Bank of the Rio Grande Valley (RGV). This initiative comes amid increasing concern over disruptions to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), significantly affecting residents seeking food assistance. Addressing Food Insecurity in Texas The Food Bank of the Rio Grande Valley has been a lifeline for many families facing economic uncertainty. More than 310,000 Texans in the Rio Grande Valley area are currently dealing with disruptions…
Combatting Food Insecurity in the Rio Grande Valley: A Holiday Bowling Tournament As food insecurity continues to rise in the United States, the Rio Grande Valley is particularly affected. With about 47.4 million Americans experiencing limited or uncertain access to food, the local community faces challenges exacerbated by factors such as economic hardship, poverty, and insufficient access to nutritious options. This holiday season, the American Advertising Federation–Rio Grande Valley (AAF-RGV) is taking action to address this pressing issue through a unique event that combines fun and philanthropy. A Festive Fundraiser: The "Keep It Ugly" Charity Bowling Tournament On Wednesday, December…
Free Tax Preparation Services: Empowering Individuals and Families Tax season can be a daunting experience for many, particularly for low-income individuals and families. Fortunately, the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program provides a solution. This initiative, managed by the IRS and supported locally by organizations such as the United Way, offers complimentary tax preparation services to eligible community members. Who Can Benefit from VITA Services? The VITA program is designed specifically for those who meet certain criteria: Annual Income: Individuals or families earning $65,000 or less. Disabilities: Taxpayers with disabilities can access these free services. Limited English Proficiency: Language should…
Empowering Communities: Hidalgo County’s Access to Success Program Introduction to the Access to Success Program In a powerful gathering at the Monza Social Event Center in Edinburg, Texas, the Hidalgo County Community Service Agency (HCCSA) celebrated the achievements of its Access to Success program on December 12, 2024. This initiative, designed to combat poverty and empower individuals, remains a cornerstone of community service in Hidalgo County, highlighting its enduring legacy since its inception as part of President Johnson’s War on Poverty initiative in the 1960s. A Legacy of Support Established in the mid-1970s, the HCCSA has played an important role…
Richard Reyes: The Heart of Pancho Claus Faces a Challenging Journey Richard Reyes collaborates with volunteers to spread joy throughout the community during the holiday season. Richard Reyes, popularly known as Pancho Claus, is entering a critical phase in his health journey. Recently diagnosed with a worsening heart condition, the beloved figure of Houston is set to undergo open-heart surgery in the coming weeks. Health Challenges At the age of 73, Reyes experienced his third heart attack, prompting urgent medical attention. Initially, he was scheduled to have a stent inserted to aid in blood flow. However, doctors discovered that the…
Latino Leaders in the RGV: Assessing Their Performance on Immigration and Public Safety In recent discussions surrounding the Rio Grande Valley (RGV), a pressing question has arisen: Are Latino leaders failing their communities in addressing immigration and public safety? As these topics dominate conversations, understanding the roles and responsibilities of local leaders becomes crucial. A Complex Landscape of Immigration Issues Immigration continues to be a contentious issue in the RGV. With its proximity to the US-Mexico border, the region is significantly impacted by federal policies and local responses. Leaders in the RGV have the monumental task of navigating these complex…
IDEA Public Schools to Implement Free Meal Programs for 2025-2026 School Year Introduction to the Community Eligibility Provision As part of its commitment to student wellness and academic success, IDEA Public Schools is set to introduce the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) under the National School Lunch and Breakfast Programs for the 2025-2026 school year. This initiative will enable all IDEA campuses within the Rio Grande Valley to provide nutritious breakfast and lunch to every student at no cost, significantly simplifying the meal application process for families. Benefits of the Community Eligibility Provision The implementation of the CEP means that families…
Texas National Bank: A New Model for Affordable Homeownership In an innovative approach to address housing challenges, Texas National Bank has established its own community development corporation (CDC) aimed at creating affordable first-time homeownership opportunities. This initiative stands out because it operates independently of federal funding, providing a streamlined solution to a pressing issue in many communities. The Journey of Mayra Ibarra When the pandemic struck, Mayra Ibarra had to move back into her mother’s home to manage rent and childcare. The adjustment meant sharing a bedroom with her youngest son and navigating the complexities of remote learning without adequate…