Author: Isabella Cortez
Streamlining Education: A New Partnership Between STC and RGV College Introduction A recent Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between South Texas College (STC) and Rio Grande Valley College marks an important milestone in enhancing educational pathways for students. This partnership focuses on facilitating the transfer of general education courses for Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) students, ensuring a seamless transition from STC to their next academic step at RGV College. Simplified Course Transfer Process Through this agreement, students enrolled in general education courses at STC can easily transfer credits to fulfill program requirements at RGV College. This strategy not only simplifies the…
Spirit of Christmas 2024: A Community United in Compassion A Season of Giving Amidst Challenges In the heart of South Texas, the holiday spirit shines brightly this season, despite the economic challenges faced by many. The Spirit of Christmas campaign organized by the United Way of South Texas reflects the community’s unwavering commitment to support families in dire need throughout the Rio Grande Valley. With a poverty rate nearly double the state average, Hidalgo County residents have mobilized to ensure that the less fortunate experience the joy of the season. Campaign’s Impact: A Record of Generosity The 2024 Spirit of…
Community Stands Against Rio Grande LNG Project: A Call for Environmental Justice Photo courtesy of Dina Nuñez Introduction: A Growing Concern in Port Isabel, Texas On October 3, 2023, community members from Port Isabel and surrounding areas gathered to voice their opposition to the proposed Rio Grande liquefied natural gas (LNG) project at a public meeting held by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC). The collective stance of various organizations—including the Sierra Club, Carrizo Comecrudo Tribe of Texas, Border Workers United, South Texas Environmental Justice Network, and Texas Rising—was clear: reject Rio Grande LNG and its associated carbon capture storage…
The Future of the Rio Grande Valley: Collaboration for Economic Growth As the Rio Grande Valley stands at a pivotal juncture in its development, leaders from various sectors are coming together to pave the way for a more prosperous future. Economic growth is surging, and the need for enhanced infrastructure is clearer than ever. In this transformative climate, the Institute for Leadership and Capital Projects (I-LinCP), alongside the RGV Partnership, the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV), and other regional stakeholders, convened on February 13, 2025, to unite stakeholders in the architectural, engineering, and construction sectors with government officials…
The Impact of ICE Raids on Construction in South Texas In South Texas, particularly in the Rio Grande Valley, the construction industry is facing unprecedented challenges due to increased ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) raids. These raids have created a climate of fear among workers, significantly affecting productivity and labor availability, and ultimately leading to economic repercussions. A Rising Climate of Fear In mid-November of this year, a video circulated online showing ICE agents detaining construction workers who were simply doing their jobs. This troubling incident reflects a broader trend that has been plaguing the region for months. Since the…
The Growing Dementia Crisis in South Texas: Understanding the Challenges and Solutions The Rio Grande Valley, a predominantly Latino region of South Texas, is currently facing a significant public health crisis: an alarming rise in cases of Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. Despite the increasing prevalence, the state’s response has been inconsistent at best. As the population ages, the urgency for a comprehensive strategy becomes increasingly vital. The Alarming Statistics Research indicates that the demographics of the Rio Grande Valley significantly contribute to the area’s high dementia rates. According to Medicare data, individuals aged 65 and older in…
Upcoming Events in the Rio Grande Valley: Community Engagement and Opportunities As the seasons change, the Rio Grande Valley is abuzz with exciting activities designed to engage and enrich the community. From garage sales to cultural festivals, there’s something for everyone. Here’s what’s happening in the upcoming weeks. September Events VFW Post 8788 Garage Sale On September 28, VFW Post 8788 in McAllen will hold a massive garage sale from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. This event will take place at 4321 Pecan Blvd. Join community members for great deals while supporting our veterans. For inquiries, contact Homer Gallegos at…
ENTRE Documentary Intensive: A Celebration of Local Storytelling At the heart of McAllen, Texas, a vibrant event unfolded at Common Space, drawing a packed crowd eager to witness the premiere of four compelling documentaries. This significant moment spotlighted the talent of first-time filmmakers hailing from the Rio Grande Valley, culminating from an engaging eight-week documentary intensive organized by the ENTRE Film Center. Building a Creative Community The bustling venue offered an air of excitement, as co-founders Andres Sanchez and C. Diaz worked diligently behind the scenes to ensure all technical challenges were resolved, preparing to deliver an unforgettable screening experience.…
Engaging the Community: Empowering Health Education through Local Health Fairs Health fairs play a crucial role in promoting community wellness and awareness, and one such event showcased the commitment of local educational institutions to tackling health challenges like diabetes. Understanding the Importance of Health Education At the forefront of this initiative was the South Texas College (STC) community, where students from various programs engaged with local children and families to share valuable health information. Vocational Nursing Instructor Michelle Pruneda emphasized the significance of such events: “We’re very grateful for this opportunity to help children learn about diabetes. […] Participating in…
Community Outcry Against SpaceX Launches: A Closer Look at the Impact on the Rio Grande Valley Concerns Surrounding SpaceX Operations in Boca Chica On April 20, 2023, a significant event unfolded as the Starship/Super Heavy rocket exploded over the Gulf of Mexico. This incident was met with a strong message from frontline organizations based in the Rio Grande Valley (RGV), who voiced their dissent against SpaceX’s activities at Boca Chica Beach near Brownsville, Texas. These groups emphasize that launching the largest rocket in history poses serious threats to local communities, wildlife, and sacred lands. The Environmental and Cultural Toll The…