For 10 years, Mercedes native Jose M. Gutierrez worked for Dollar Tree, earning the titles of store manager and district trainer. But four years ago, despite his success with the company, Gutierrez felt a sense of discontent. He began exploring the possibility of going to college and changing his career path. Gutierrez enrolled in evening class at the South Texas College Mid-Valley Campus in Weslaco. Two years later, after completing…
The iconic red kettles of the Salvation Army and their greeters ringing Christmas bells by store entrances will continue through the challenges of an eventful 2020 – with added precautions. The kettles will be frequently wiped down with disinfectant to keep them clean. The volunteers will also be trained to keep themselves and others safe. Both the Christmas cheer and services of the Salvation Army will continue, no matter the…
Khanh “Connie” Nguyen’s first impressions of the Rio Grande Valley in 2008 were of a place she didn’t plan to stay long. In the midst of the Great Recession, and buffeted by the upheaval of the banking industry where she worked in southern California, Nguyen’s mother advised she head to the Valley for a fresh start. Nguyen had family here and she decided it was worth a try. “Too hot,”…
The International Museum of Art & Science presents a community Holiday Market Dec. 5. The event helps kick off this year’s annual Christmas Tree Forest. The festive artist and artisan market takes place from 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. near the west entrance and Welcome Pavilion. The community is invited to support these local artists and artisans and then visit the Christmas Tree Forest and museum exhibitions. In addition to…
For the eight year in a row, Foreign Trade Zone No. 62 at the Port of Brownsville remains near the top in the nation for the value of exports. The recognition comes from information in the U.S. Foreign-Trade Zones Board’s annual report to Congress. FTZ No. 62 ranks second in the country with more than $4.3 billion in exported goods in 2019. This is an increase from the $3.8 billion…
Juan de la Rosa of Donna was working as a cook at Longhorn Steakhouse when he decided to pursue a career in a high-demand field where he could earn more money while helping people. He decided to enroll at South Texas College in the Patient Care Technician Program. In this program, de la Rosa knew he would also be taught entry-level skills in phlebotomy, EKG and monitor technician. While enrolling…
Small Business Saturday 2020 is on Nov. 28, marking the 11th annual Small Business Saturday. Last year, shoppers came together in full force to support their local communities. Small Business Saturday hit a record high with an estimated $19.6 billion in reported spending. This year surviving COVID-19 has become the sole mission of many small businesses. Despite the challenges, I have learned that local small businesses are resourceful and resilient.…
This year, the McAllen Holiday Parade will honor local essential workers and organizers are asking the public to nominate their favorite frontline hero to be parade grand marshals. Entry deadline is Nov. 30 at 11:59 p.m. “This year has been a difficult year for everyone,” said McAllen Mayor Jim Darling. “As we learned to navigate through the challenges of wearing a mask, curbside delivery, Zoom meetings and Google classrooms, others…
The Edinburg Chamber of Commerce is currently seeking nominations for Man and Woman of the Year for 2020. Nominations are due Dec. 1 by 5 p.m. The candidate, throughout his/her career and personal work should leadership characteristics. The chamber is also seeking a person who has successfully demonstrated abilities as an individual, as a team member and as a leader. Nominees should have a willingness to serve and assist other…
The Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission invites military veterans from across the state to learn more about available assistance in starting a own business in the alcoholic beverage industry. The invitation comes from TABC’s Empowering Texas Veterans initiative, now in its second year. The initiative partners veterans who have established a business in the industry with protégés who want to begin a business on their own. The mentor will advise the…