England Farms of Mercedes is the first cotton grower in the state, country and world to bring in the first two bales of cotton for the 2020 harvest season. The new crop arrived at Ross Gin Co in Mercedes on June 18 at 10:37 a.m. The first two bales weighed 484 pounds and 543 pounds, respectively. Once ginned, the cotton will be transported to the Harlingen Area Chamber of Commerce.…
The Texas Workforce Commission recently took action to provide guidance on eligibility for unemployment insurance benefits due to refusal to suitable work. Evaluations of each UI benefits case is currently on an individual basis. However, because of COVID-19, the following are reasons benefits would continue if an individual refuses work. Reason for refusal: People 65 years or older and/or people with medical issues. These include heart disease, diabetes, cancer or a…
The team at Valley Initiative for Development and Advancement knows all too well about doors closing in keeping underemployed and unemployed people in the Rio Grande Valley from career advancement and higher pay. Janet Oliva Cortez knows about those challenges. Cortez works for the Weslaco Independent School District as a data entry clerk. It’s a good employer, secure job, and a decent salary. Cortez knew, however, that without a degree,…
South Texas College students pursuing a bachelor’s degree in the Computer and Information Technologies Program will soon have the opportunity to improve their ability for employment in the IT industry with a Google IT Support Professional Certificate. A $10,000 grant by Jobs for the Future allows those pursing a bachelor’s degree in the CITP program the opportunity to also complete a the certificate program. “The certificate impacts students by creating…
A recent $332,042 grant from the Texas Workforce Commission to South Texas College will continue to provide customized training to the workforce for local industry partners. TWC’s Skills Development Fund will provide funding to train 181 new and incumbent workers in advanced manufacturing. “We are committed to fostering long-term sustained economic growth by providing superior workforce training programs to local business and industry partners,” said South Texas College Associate Dean of…
The Port of Brownsville ranks third among U.S. ports for “strong financial resilience” surveyed in a new report from Moody’s Investor Services. The ranking underscores the ongoing value of the port’s prudent financial stewardship in light of economic impacts from the worldwide COVID-19 pandemic. Moody’s analysis evaluated American ports on a range of key factors surrounding financial responsibility. This includes the ability to handle the impact of a significant decline…
The construction of two 774-foot-long container ships for Pasha Hawaii continues on schedule at the Port of Brownsville. On June 5, Keppel AmFELS hosted a presentation and tour for port and city of Brownsville officials. Here, they presented an update of construction for the M/V George III and the M/V Janet Marie. Delivery of the M/V George III to Pasha is set for this summer. The twin U.S. Jones Act…
On June 26, following the Governor’s announcement, the Fourth of July Fireworks show on South Padre Island has been canceled. The first annual Red, White and Beach Festival takes place place July 3-4 at the Amphitheater and Event Center on South Padre Island. According to promoters, the event will be “the largest celebration of our Independence Day on the Island.” The festival will feature surprise artists as well as the legendary INTOCABLE…
The new Edinburg Economic Development Department now has a seven-member board of directors after appointments by the Edinburg City Council. The board consists of a former state representative, three previous members of the Edinburg EDC board of directors and three other prominent area leaders. The Edinburg Economic Development Department takes over the duties of the Edinburg EDC. The Edinburg EDC every year received millions from the city’s one-half cent sales…
Thirty-two local high school graduating seniors will receive $1,000 scholarships from the Brownsville Navigation District. The inaugural Port of Brownsville program helps deserving students pursue their education and career dreams. “On behalf of the entire Port of Brownsville organization, we are proud to support these local students and families at this time,” said John Reed, chairman of the Brownsville Navigation District. “We are excited for the students as they continue…