Author: Isabella Cortez
The Vision Behind South Texas Roads: A Closer Look at TxDOT’s Pharr District In the sprawling landscapes of Texas, roads represent more than mere concrete and asphalt; they are vital lifelines weaving communities together and opening doors to new opportunities. In South Texas, one name stands out in this ongoing narrative: Pedro “Pete” Alvarez, the head of the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) Pharr District. Under his leadership, projects are meticulously planned to ensure safety, connectivity, and future growth for the region. Building for the Future: The Role of TxDOT in South Texas Alvarez’s vision begins before any heavy machinery…
Inaugural Rio Grande Valley Navy Week: A Celebration of Community and Service Corpus Christi, Texas—The U.S. Navy is poised to make a significant impact in South Texas with the launch of the first-ever Rio Grande Valley Navy Week. Set to run from January 24 to January 31, this week-long celebration will engage residents across four cities: Mission, McAllen, Edinburg, and Brownsville. The event promises an exciting blend of community activities ranging from the Texas Citrus Fiesta to activities at Boca Chica Beach. Connecting with Communities The Navy is collaborating with local municipalities to create a vibrant schedule filled with performances,…
New Physician Residency Program Launches in the Rio Grande Valley Introduction of HCA Healthcare and UTRGV Partnership In a significant move to enhance healthcare access and education in South Texas, HCA Healthcare Gulf Coast Division and The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV) have unveiled a groundbreaking agreement to introduce a new residency program. This initiative aims to bring 30 resident physicians to the Brownsville and McAllen hospitals by the summer of 2024 and ultimately increase that number to 150 by 2029. Expanding Medical Training Opportunities The residency program will allow medical students from the UTRGV School of Medicine…
The Educational Landscape of the Rio Grande Valley: Overcoming Pandemic Challenges Introduction The Rio Grande Valley (RGV) has emerged as a remarkable case study in educational advancement. Over recent years, community efforts have significantly elevated the academic achievements of students in this historically underserved region. This progress is the result of concerted efforts from local leaders, educational institutions, and families to tackle long-standing challenges head-on. However, the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic has posed new hurdles, leading to a drop in student enrollment and learning outcomes. This article explores the current state of education in the RGV, addressing both achievements…
FAA’s Oversight of Spanish-Speaking Communities in the RGV: A Call for Justice The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is currently under scrutiny for its apparent disregard for the Spanish-speaking population in the Rio Grande Valley (RGV) and the Carrizo Comecrudo Tribe of Texas as it expedites the approval process for SpaceX to launch the Starship/Super Heavy rocket. This situation has been labeled as a manifestation of environmental racism. Communities directly impacted by these decisions deserve to have a voice, and their rights must be upheld. The Importance of Community Engagement Spanish speakers in the Rio Grande Valley have an inherent right…
McAllen Citizens League Supports Local Food Bank with Generous Donation In a heartfelt gesture of community support, the McAllen Citizens League recently presented a substantial donation of $1,270 to the Food Bank of the Rio Grande Valley (RGV). The occasion took place during the League’s monthly meeting on November 19 at Rio Bank, prominently underlining the organization’s commitment to aiding local families in need. Contribution to Local Families in Need Omar Rodriguez, the Director of Grants and Government Relations for the RGV Food Bank, graciously accepted the donation on behalf of the organization. Speaking to the League members, he expressed…
Celebrating Success in Social Work: Highlights from the Access to Success Program Introduction to the Access to Success Program On December 12, 2023, the community gathered at the Monza Social Event Center in Edinburg, Texas, to honor the achievements of the Access to Success program, an initiative spearheaded by the Hidalgo County Community Service Agency. This event not only celebrated the dedication of participants but also showcased the importance of social services in uplifting individuals from poverty to self-sufficiency. Keynote Address by Dr. Luis Torres-Hostos The keynote speaker for the evening was Dr. Luis Torres-Hostos, the founding dean of the…
Exciting Expansion for the 2025 RGV Startup Week in the Rio Grande Valley A Collaborative Entrepreneurial Initiative BROWNSVILLE, Texas – The 2025 RGV Startup Week is set to broaden its reach across the Rio Grande Valley, showcasing an exciting array of activities designed to promote innovation and entrepreneurship. This year, the event will not only take place in Brownsville but will also feature programs in Harlingen, Weslaco, Pharr, and McAllen, underscoring its commitment to fostering collaboration and networking among startups. Event Overview Scheduled from April 25 to May 2, 2025, RGV Startup Week is hailed as the region’s premier entrepreneurship…
Larry Esparza Announces Candidacy for Hidalgo County Probate Court No. 2 Hidalgo County has been provided with a strong candidate for its upcoming Democratic primary election, as Larry Esparza officially declares his intention to run for the position of judge for Hidalgo County Probate Court No. 2. This significant announcement aims to position him as a reliable choice for families navigating emotional and complex legal situations. Why Probate Court Matters Probate courts play a crucial role in our judicial system, handling cases related to estates, guardianships, and matters concerning seniors and individuals with disabilities. Esparza is focused on ensuring that…
Discover the Beauty of the Rio Grande Valley: Birding and Gardening Workshops Explore the Natural Wonders at Gonzalez Park Garden The Rio Grande Valley is renowned for its vibrant ecosystems, making it an ideal spot for nature enthusiasts. Brownsville Parks & Recreation Department offers an exciting opportunity to immerse yourself in this unique environment through their engaging Birding and Gardening sessions. Held every Wednesday at Gonzalez Park Garden, these free workshops are designed for adults aged 18 and over, presenting a chance to learn about local flora and fauna while participating in hands-on activities. Why Participate in Birding and Gardening…