To protect lives and aid those in need was the pledge made by 20 new South Texas College graduates as they celebrated their completion of STC’s Fire Academy during a recent ceremony at the Regional Center for Public Safety Excellence in Pharr. “Firefighting is a brotherhood, and much like them, our success relies on working together as a region. As a college, we collaborate closely with agencies across the Rio…
A leading developer in the hospitality industry will invest nearly $25 million to construct two hotels next to the Mission Event Center. The new additions can draw tourism, spur economic development and will significantly increase the city’s lodging. Nitin Kasan, the operations manager for Ocean Gate Hospitality, announced the developments on Dec. 13 during a groundbreaking ceremony alongside the Mission Economic Development Corporation, the City of Mission and the Greater…
The City of McAllen has hired Jeremy Santoscoy as its new director of Aviation of McAllen International Airport. The Rio Grande Valley native has 18 years of experience with the City of McAllen, serving most recently as the deputy director for the airport and previously as transportation engineer. Santoscoy is a licensed engineer with experience in strategic planning, leading infrastructure development, governmental affairs as well as finance and federal compliance.…
To address a nationwide teacher shortage and encourage more students to consider the profession, South Texas College and Teach Us Texas have joined forces by signing a Memorandum of Understanding to facilitate a pathway into the company’s alternative teaching certification program. The partnership will allow STC students pursuing an associate degree in Teaching or a Substitute Teacher & Teacher Assistant continuing education certificate a seamless transition into the program. “Our…
In partnership with leadership from South Texas College and STC’s Dual Credit Programs, Roma Independent School District launched its first-ever early college academy this week. Two years in the making, the new academy will enable students to earn at least 40 hours of college credit once they graduate high school, the equivalent of taking their core classes before they even graduate. “For the students, I want to be sure they…
Andrew Garza spent over a decade in the fast-food industry, rising to management positions at Chick-fil-A and Pizza Hut. He enjoys working in teams and helping to lead them. Garza figured there was another industry where his experience would prove valuable. “The green energy field is growing, here in the Valley and around the world,” Garza said. “I see really good opportunities in wind energy technology. Hopefully, at some point,…
Holidays in the Rio Grande Valley involve a lot more than your average Christmas tree, a lighted menorah, wrapping and unwrapping gifts, and eating too much turkey. The Valley is in Texas, where everything is big, including holiday events in McAllen. The city will host everything from parades to shopping events and holiday music from an orchestra and a wind ensemble to “The Nutcracker.” Dream Land Then there’s the South…
The International Museum of Art & Science hosts its annual Holiday Market at the Museum on Dec. 9 with an array of local artisans, a gallery talk from a guest curator, Gingerbread Challenge workshops and the annual Christmas Tree Forest community exhibition. IMAS says the Holiday Market at the Museum will be a haven for both art enthusiasts and holiday lovers. Admission is included with a discounted general admission price…
La Plaza Mall has recently added Mango, TOUS, Abercrombie & Fitch, Steps New York and Perfume Gallery to its lineup of retailers. In addition, MINISO will open later this year. Mango is a worldwide women’s fashion chain from Barcelona, Spain, delivering Mediterranean culture and style. Mango focuses on fashion trends, attention to detail, and efficiency. Located across from JD Sports, Rio Grande Valley area shoppers will find at the retailer…
The Salvation Army of Harlingen has kicked off its annual Angel Tree program, with “angels” available for adoption. The program provides toys and clothing to children whose families are facing financial difficulties. Organizers say that with the generosity of the community, 400 children will experience the joy of opening presents on Christmas morning. “The Salvation Army Angel Tree program provides toys and clothing to children and families who might be…