Author: Isabella Cortez
Join the Film Friendly Texas Workshop in McAllen: A Gateway to Media Production Opportunities Overview of the Event On October 5, 2022, the Texas Film Commission will hold an engaging Film Friendly Texas Workshop in McAllen, aimed at empowering community representatives from the Rio Grande Valley, South Texas, and throughout the state. This informative workshop will provide essential insights into the media production industries present in Texas and guide participants on how to achieve Film Friendly Texas certification. This certification is instrumental for communities looking to attract new jobs and investments in the film and media sectors. Importance of the…
Water Crisis in the Rio Grande Valley: Urgent Need for Policy Reform Introduction to the Agricultural Crisis The Rio Grande Valley, a critical agricultural hub in Texas, is facing an unprecedented crisis that threatens the livelihoods of its farmers. The region relies heavily on water resources, particularly under the 1944 Water Treaty with Mexico, which unfortunately has not been honored consistently. Farmers, such as Will Beckwith of Beckwith Produce, are voicing urgent concerns about this situation in light of recent discussions with U.S. Senators John Cornyn and John Boozman. The Impact of Water Shortages One of the pivotal topics during…
Rio Grande Regional Hospital: A Commitment to Exceptional Healthcare in the Valley Since its establishment in 1982, Rio Grande Regional Hospital (RGRH) has been a cornerstone of healthcare in the Rio Grande Valley. With a consistent dedication to patient safety and clinical excellence, this facility has earned national recognition, making it one of the Best Places to Work in Healthcare. The hospital’s success is rooted in its mission to deliver high-quality medical services, ensuring that the community receives the best possible care. Celebrating 39 Years of Service In preparation for its 39th anniversary, Rio Grande Regional Hospital is unveiling a…
The Impact of COVID-19 on the Rio Grande Valley: A Community’s Struggle and Resilience The COVID-19 pandemic hit many regions hard, but some areas experienced the brunt of its effects more severely than others. One such region is the Rio Grande Valley (RGV) in Texas, a unique area defined by rich cultural diversity, socioeconomic challenges, and densely packed communities. This article explores the community’s struggles during the pandemic, focusing on the human stories and systemic issues that accentuate the crisis. The Human Toll of COVID-19 One poignant story comes from licensed vocational nurse Martha Betancourt, who epitomizes the dedication exhibited…
Empowering Future Entrepreneurs: The Role of the Rio Grande Valley Angel Network Introduction In the heart of Weslaco, Texas, a transformative initiative is taking place through the Rio Grande Valley Angel Network (RGVAN). This dedicated group of investors focuses on nurturing the entrepreneurial spirit in the region, helping to pave the way for the next generation of business leaders. What is the Rio Grande Valley Angel Network? The RGVAN aims to foster connections between entrepreneurs and investors, functioning as a vital bridge that facilitates funding and mentorship. As a network of individual investors, RGVAN primarily focuses on financing early-stage ventures—those…
The Shifting Political Landscape in South Texas: A Focus on the Rio Grande Valley GOP As South Texas gears up for the upcoming election year, the political dynamics within the Rio Grande Valley are evolving significantly. Just before Halloween, Alma Pérez, the field director for Texas Latino Conservatives, visited a local candy store in McAllen. Her goal was clear: find affordable candy for a community trunk-or-treat event hosted by the local Republican office. However, when faced with soaring prices, Pérez expressed her disappointment. “It’s outrageous for the typical family out there right now,” she remarked, highlighting the broader economic woes…
Urgent Call for Support: Food Bank RGV Faces Critical Shortage Addressing a Growing Crisis As the community gears up for summer, the Food Bank RGV finds itself in a precarious situation characterized by a severe shortage of food supplies. Located in Pharr, Texas, the distribution center is in desperate need of both monetary and food donations to continue supporting families in need. This growing crisis highlights the persistent issue of hunger in the region, especially among vulnerable groups such as children, seniors, and veterans. Impact of Food Shortage The alarming food shortage at Food Bank RGV raises questions about the…
Autumn’s Arrival: A Welcoming Change for the Rio Grande Valley As summer bids farewell on September 22, the residents of the Rio Grande Valley are ready to embrace the cooler, more vibrant days of autumn. After experiencing an unrelenting stretch of scorching temperatures, the transition to fall brings a refreshing change that is both anticipated and celebrated. The Challenges of a Texas Summer This past summer has been one of the hottest on record for the Rio Grande Valley, with temperatures consistently soaring above 100 degrees Fahrenheit. The relentless heat not only takes a toll on the comfort of the…
Edna Posada: A Trailblazer in Entrepreneurship and Community Leadership Celebrating the 2025 HWNT Hispanic Women Making History Honoree The Hispanic Women’s Network of Texas (HWNT) has been instrumental in empowering Latinas across the state, applauding their significant contributions in fields ranging from business to leadership. A standout figure recognized in the 2025 HWNT Hispanic Women Making History event is Edna Posada, an inspiring entrepreneur from the Rio Grande Valley (RGV). Through her unwavering commitment to her community, Edna has positioned herself as a pivotal force in both business and social impact. Early Life and Entrepreneurial Spirit Edna Posada’s journey began…
The Ongoing Battle Against LNG Facilities in the Rio Grande Valley The Rio Grande Valley (RGV) has been a battleground for environmental protection for nearly a decade. Community organizations have successfully staved off the development of the Rio Grande LNG and Texas LNG facilities, which threaten to disrupt the delicate coastal ecosystems and indigenous heritage of the area. Despite these efforts, the fight to keep liquefied natural gas (LNG) infrastructure out of the region is far from over. The Threat of LNG Development If realized, the construction of both Texas LNG and Rio Grande LNG facilities would introduce massive, industrial…