Author Archives: VBR

Summer is an excellent time for families to enjoy outdoor activities, create lasting memories and embrace the sunshine. But with Valley temperatures hitting triple digits, parents need to be extra careful that their little ones stay safe and comfortable in the heat. Dr. Cristel Escalona, board-certified pediatrician at UT Health RGV and associate professor of pediatrics at UTRGV School of Medicine, said being outdoors is essential for healthy baby development,…

Apprenticeship Program Addresses Industry Needs

July 1, 2024

VBR

Education Manufacturing/Industrial News Comments

The Construction Superintendent Apprenticeship program at South Texas College gives students the opportunity to earn while they learn. Maribel and Carolina Saenz – two sisters who operate their own utility contracting business – received a certificate of completion from STC’s apprenticeship program. The program is tailored to students already working in an industry. For the Saenz sisters, the STC certifications will help take their Saenz Utility Contractors of Edcouch-Elsa to…

Rodriguez Appointed to TMRS State Board

May 2, 2024

VBR

e-Brief Features Government Moving On Up News Comments

Texas Governor Greg Abbott has appointed McAllen City Manager Roel “Roy” Rodriguez to the Texas Municipal Retirement System Board of Trustees for a term to expire on Feb. 1, 2029. The board oversees the Texas Municipal Retirement System, which is responsible for providing a secure retirement benefit plan for eligible employees of more than 800 Texas cities. Rodriguez is a former gubernatorial appointee to the Texas Municipal Retirement System Board…

UTRGV Introduces Summer 2024 Grad Incentive

May 2, 2024

VBR

e-Brief Features Education Featured News Comments

This summer, The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley is offering a special incentive to incoming graduate students, aimed at jumpstarting their academic journey toward an advanced degree. The new Summer 2024 Grad Incentive will grant up to $2,000 toward the education of new students entering any academic program within the UTRGV Graduate College. This award, provided through grants or scholarships, is available on a first-come, first-serve basis until funds are exhausted. To…

Texas Labor Market Shows Steady Growth

May 2, 2024

VBR

e-Brief Features News Comments

The Texas labor market maintained its momentum in March to reach a 36th consecutive month of positive annual growth and once again set new record-high levels for jobs, Texans employed and the civilian labor force. Texas’ seasonally adjusted total nonfarm job count increased to 14,115,700 after 19,100 jobs were added over the month in March, reflecting growth in 45 of the last 47 months. Texas also led the nation with…

McAllen To Host International Economic Summit

April 29, 2024

VBR

Community Events News Comments

The City of McAllen will host the MXLAN International Economic Summit at the McAllen Convention Center on May 3, highlighting the South Texas region’s unique geographical position, cultural dynamics and significant impact it has on international commerce and trade. The discussions sparked and connections made during the conference are designed to reshape economic and cultural perspectives through insightful dialogue and collaboration about how economic activities within McAllen resonate globally, making…

STC Hosts Public Safety and First Responders Expo

April 25, 2024

VBR

Community Events e-Brief Features Featured News Comments

South Texas College’s Regional Center for Public Safety Excellence will host its annual Public Safety and First Responders Expo on April 26, welcoming community members to explore career opportunities and academic pathways as first responders. Free and open to the public, more than 400 students from school districts across the Rio Grande Valley and community members are invited to the event, where a total of 40 local, state and federal…

Port of Brownsville Business Park Lands First Tenant

April 25, 2024

VBR

e-Brief Features Manufacturing/Industrial News Comments

The Port of Brownsville recently held a ceremonial groundbreaking for its first tenant at the Port of Brownsville Business Park, Westa Inc. The April 18 ceremony marked a significant milestone in the development of the port’s 118-acre business park. Westa Inc., a major player in the agricultural industry, will invest $20 million to establish a state-of-the-art wheat flour mill and wheat storage silos at the Port of Brownsville. The company…

MFE Hosts Inaugural Delta Flight to Austin

April 24, 2024

VBR

Featured News Transportation & Travel Comments

McAllen International Airport welcomed representatives from Delta Air Lines to launch their first nonstop flight to Austin on April 22. “McAllen has made travel between the Valley and Austin easier than ever,” said City of McAllen Mayor Javier Villalobos. Nonstop flights between McAllen and the state capital now depart daily from McAllen International Airport. “A growing Rio Grande Valley needed a non-stop flight with multiple frequencies a day connecting to…

Valley Coastal Bend HCS Hosts Prescription Take Back Day

April 23, 2024

VBR

Community Events Featured News Comments

Texas Valley Coastal Bend Health Care System is participating in the DEA National Prescription Drug Take Back Day, also known as the DUMP Opioids Act, on April 26. Locally, VA Harlingen Health Care Center will take back prescription drugs for free from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Individuals (not only veterans) can use the VA facility to dispose of unused controlled substance prescription medications. VA holds Medication Take Back Days…