Aida Meza had a job as a phlebotomist, earning $12 an hour. She felt fulfilled, but making ends meet proved challenging for this single mother. In July 2023, she applied for acceptance into the Medical Laboratory Technology Program at Texas Southmost College. One month later, she received an acceptance letter. Meza felt a sense of excitement and trepidation. As she prepared to start the program, a barrier appeared along her…
Gilbert Hernandez had 500 books and a $5,000 loan when taking his business from markets and pop-ups to a storefront in downtown Brownsville. It was the first days of January 2022. His new bookstore Buho now had a physical location in a historic downtown building that got its start in 1921 as a pharmacy on Washington Street. The 29-year-old Hernandez was out to prove a point. His research revealed that…
The International Museum of Art & Science is launching its new IMAS After Dark with “Fright Night” on Oct. 31, providing a new way for adults to take in the museum. With themed evening events throughout the year, the series provides an exclusive opportunity for adults (21+) to explore the museum’s art and science exhibits in a lively atmosphere. Each night features complimentary beverages, interactive activities and social experiences that…
While in the Vocational Nursing Program at Texas State Technical College in Harlingen, Yvette Garcia attended an informational session conducted by the Valley Initiative for Development and Advancement. Little did she know that day how much this session would impact her life. Founded nearly 30 years ago through a collaboration between Valley Interfaith and business leaders from across the Rio Grande Valley, VIDA has remained true to its original mission.…
When friends of Weslaco resident Clarissa Magaña told her about the Valley Initiative for Development and Advancement, her goal suddenly seemed more viable. Acceptance into VIDA would allow her to obtain the degree she always wanted. Earning an associate degree in nursing would also be an important lesson for this single mother’s six children. Already a licensed vocational nurse, Magaña longed to return to school to become a registered nurse. …
Linking Economic and Academic Development (RGV LEAD) will host the State of Education and Industry on Sept. 24, providing a platform for collaboration, discussion of Valley-area current and future workforce needs, and a showcase of partnerships that have a direct impact on students’ upward mobility. For more than 30 years, RGV LEAD has connected industry and educational leaders to address the workforce demands of the Rio Grande Valley. Our mission…
McAllen International Airport set an all-time total traveler record for July in 2024 with 114,694 total passengers, an 8.7 percent increase over the previous record set in June 2024. Overall traffic in 2024 has increased 23 percent year over year, with 70 percent more flights since same time in 2023. “McAllen International Airport has set records in four of the past five years, however this year we have taken it…
Alexandrea Peralta’s business is located across the street from an inner city park that needs an image boost. Putting her Jade Candle Co. shop across the street from a park in Harlingen some local residents avoid points to two of Peralta’s great passions. One is for candle making from scratch and creating products to the specifications of her customers. The other is love of her community and a commitment to…
The U.S. Small Business Administration is now accepting nominations for its highly celebrated National and District Small Business Week Awards, including Small Business Person of the Year. To help nominators prepare a successful package, the Lower Rio Grande Valley District Office will present two September webinars explaining the nomination guidelines. “The SBA’s Lower Rio Grande Valley District Office is ready to accept nominations,” Angela Burton, district director, said. “I encourage…
The International Museum of Art & Science will hold its Back to School Bash on Aug. 17 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., featuring hands-on art and science activities, Starlab Planetarium presentations, community tables, food vendors and opportunities to receive school supplies while items last. Visitors will be able to explore museum areas including Water Journey, MPU BioZone, Science On a Sphere exhibit theater, H-E-B Seed to Table play exhibit…