Shows
RGV Business Journal2026 RGV Economic Outlook: Federal Reserve’s Pia Orrenius on Jobs, Trade & Growth in the Rio Grande ValleyThe Rio Grande Valley Business Journal presents highlights from its inaugural Economic Outlook Luncheon, featuring keynote economist Pia Orrenius, vice president at the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas.After opening remarks from publisher Ramiro Garza Jr., Orrenius breaks down Texas job trends, housing affordability, migration shifts and cross-border trade — and what those forces could mean for the Rio Grande Valley in 2026.The program wraps with audience Q&A and a regional industry panel discussing workforce development, LNG, real estate and infrastructure investment. It’s a timely conversation on where the RGV economy stands — and what’s ahead...
2026-02-171h 29RGV Business JournalDowntown McAllen at a Crossroads: Business Owners Speak Out About This Heated BattleIn this Rio Grande Valley Business Journal podcast episode, reporter Kristen Mossbrucker-Garza talks with Bert Guerra of Cine El Rey and James Alexander of The Flying Walrus about the growing tensions between city leadership and longtime downtown stakeholders.The conversation covers:• The original Heart of the City revitalization plan• Recent enforcement actions and power shutoffs• Zoning proposals affecting historic downtown• The role of arts and music in economic development• Why founders created the Heart of McAllen organization• What comes next for businesses, residents, and artistsGuerra and Alexander share person...
2026-02-151h 55RGV Business JournalManufacturing isn’t what it used to be — and neither is the Rio Grande Valley economy. From “potato chips to rocket ships," with Mike WillisIn this episode of the Rio Grande Valley Business Journal podcast, Kristen Mosbrucker-Garza sits down with Mike Willis, executive director of the South Texas Manufacturers Association, to discuss tariffs, automation, supply chains and workforce challenges shaping manufacturing today.Willis explains why jobs didn’t “disappear,” how consumer choices fueled globalization, and what companies really need to invest in U.S. production. The conversation also explores SpaceX’s game-changing impact on Brownsville, the Valley’s role in binational manufacturing, and why workforce shortages remain one of the biggest barriers to growth.“Manufacturing isn’t about jobs being stolen —...
2026-02-0558 minRGV Business JournalFrom Border Town to Boomtown: Inside Brownsville’s Economic Surge. Why People Are Moving To Brownsville — Not Leaving.Brownsville is experiencing a historic economic shift — and for the first time in modern history, more people are moving into the city than leaving.In this episode of the Rio Grande Valley Business Journal podcast, Gilberto Salinas, president and CEO of the Greater Brownsville EDC, breaks down what’s driving that transformation. From SpaceX’s Starbase operation to major LNG projects near the Port of Brownsville, Salinas explains how long-term economic development efforts are reversing decades of brain drain and reshaping the regional economy.Topics discussed include:• Why Brownsville now ranks among the fastest-growing cities i...
2026-01-2935 minRGV Business JournalSpaceX, AI Data Centers & Federal Visits: What’s Changing in the Rio Grande ValleyFederal officials, SpaceX defense contracts and AI data centers are transforming the Rio Grande Valley.In this episode of the Rio Grande Valley Business Journal podcast, our reporters break down border security policy, ICE enforcement, SpaceX’s expanding role as a defense contractor, and the rise of AI-powered data centers in Cameron and Willacy counties.
2026-01-2541 minRGV Business JournalRGV Housing: Affordability, Inventory, and What Builders Want Next -- A conversation with Jonathan “Johnny” Vasquez, executive officer of the Rio Grande Valley Builders AssociationOn this episode of the Rio Grande Valley Business Journal podcast, host Naxi Lopez-Puente speaks with Jonathan “Johnny” Vasquez, executive officer of the Rio Grande Valley Builders Association (RGVBA), about the state of residential construction in the Rio Grande Valley.Vasquez discusses why the market has slowed, what affordability pressures look like (tariffs, regulation, land costs), how inventory is shaping buyer behavior, and why builders are pushing for a permanent workforce solution — including support for the bipartisan Dignity Act and expanded legal work pathways.What we cover• RGV construction slowdown: what’s driving it• Inven...
2026-01-1932 minRGV Business JournalRGV Construction Under Pressure: Labor Raids, Delays, and the Housing Pipeline. An interview with Mario GuerreroRio Grande Valley Business Journal host Naxi Lopez-Puente speaks with Mario Guerrero, CEO of the South Texas Builders Association, about what builders and contractors say they’re seeing on construction sites across the Rio Grande Valley — and how worksite enforcement activity can ripple into project delays, construction loans, timelines, and the broader local economy.Guerrero also discusses how the South Texas Builders Association formed during COVID-era disruption, what builders learned from supply-price spikes, and why workforce availability is now one of the biggest constraints in the local housing pipeline.🎧 Watch, share, and subscribe for more RGV bus...
2026-01-1856 minRGV Business JournalFrom Labor Costs to Lot Prices: What’s Driving Home Prices in the Valley: An Interview with builder "Nacho" PecinaRising construction costs, higher land prices and changing buyer demand are reshaping the Rio Grande Valley housing market.In this interview, a local builder and real estate broker walks through what affordable new construction looks like today in Pharr, how labor and material costs have changed over the past decade, and why incentives are becoming more common in a buyer’s market.The conversation covers inventory levels, land prices, labor shortages, financing realities, and what buyers and sellers should understand before making their next move in the Valley real estate market.📍 Highlights include:•...
2026-01-0632 min
73 IN THE RGV73 IN THE RGV - WINLINKWelcome to Episode 12 of the 73 IN THE RGV Podcast with your host KI5DOG.In
this episode of the 73 IN THE RGV podcast, the first podcast dedicated
to Amateur Radio Operators, Actions, Activities, and Events in the Rio
Grande Valley in Deep South Texas, KI5DOG (David) shares with you: What is WINLINK? What you can do now to get yourself on the radio email system that does not need the Internet?Plus we visit the local Radio Club websites and social med...
2025-12-2800 minRGV Business JournalThe Rio Grande Valley Agriculture & Water Crisis w/ Dante GaleazziIn this episode of the Rio Grande Valley Business Journal Podcast we sit down with Dante Galeazzi, CEO/President of The Texas International Produce association where he talks about agricultural restraints and water supply issues facing the Rio Grande Valley
2025-12-2231 minRGV Business JournalThe RGV’s Infrastructure Problem: A Conversation with Richard A. Garza of BIC RealtyThe Rio Grande Valley is growing fast — but with growth comes challenges. 🏗️In this episode of the RGV Business Journal, host Naxiely Lopez sits down with Richard A. Garza, Broker and Owner of BIC Realty, to discuss some of the key infrastructure issues affecting the region. From transportation and drainage to planning and development, Richard shares his perspective on what’s holding the Valley back and what solutions could help move it forward.🎧 Tune in to hear an honest, insightful conversation about the future of infrastructure, real estate, and sustainable growth in the RGV.#RGVBusinessJournal #RGV #Infrastructure #BICRealty #TexasGrowth #EconomicDeve...
2025-11-2816 minRGV Business JournalEconomic Growth in the Rio Grande Valley | Conversation with Mari Carmen CadenaEste episodio del pódcast presenta una entrevista con Mari Carmen Cadena, una profesionista con más de 30 años de experiencia en desarrollo económico y atracción de inversión extranjera en el norte de México. Ella comparte su trayectoria —desde estudiar en el extranjero, trabajar en el gobierno y promover a México internacionalmente, hasta unirse a desarrolladores industriales, convertirse en bróker y finalmente crear su propia empresa. Explica el crecimiento de la región Reynosa–Matamoros, sus fortalezas en manufactura (especialmente en autopartes), su identidad cultural y la importancia de ver la frontera entre México y...
2025-11-2125 minRGV Business JournalWater, Growth, & The RGV's Future with Brian Godinez and Jim DarlingIn this episode of the RGV Business Journal Podcast, we sit down with Brian Godinez, CEO of ERO Architects and board member of the Institute for Leadership and Capital Projects, along with Jim Darling, former McAllen mayor and current chairperson of the Region M Water Planning Group. They discuss the Rio Grande Valley’s current infrastructure challenges, the opportunities emerging across the region, and how the Valley continues to experience rapid, exponential growth.If you’d like to learn more about the current landscape of the RGV and the work of the Institute for Lead...
2025-11-1527 min
RGV Business JournalImmigration Policy and H-2A Labor Are Reshaping Texas Agriculture | RGV Business JournalTexas agriculture is facing a critical labor shortage—and current federal immigration policies may be making it worse. In this episode, host Kristen Mosbrucker-Garza speaks with Texas International Produce Association CEO Dante Galeazzi to fill in a major gap left out of a recent Dallas Fed report: the impact on construction and agriculture, two industries heavily dependent on immigrant and guest-worker labor.Galeazzi explains how Texas needs more than 34,000 agricultural workers, yet only 12,000 H-2A visas were issued last year—forcing growers to rely on a shrinking labor pool. He breaks down how delays, shutdowns, and enforcement acti...
2025-11-1319 minRGV Business JournalInfrastructure & Progress: With Rene Xavier Gonzalez, President of CODEM | RGV Business JournalWhat role does infrastructure play in shaping the future of the Rio Grande Valley? 🏗️In this episode of the RGV Business Journal, host Naxiely Lopez sits down with Rene Xavier Gonzalez, the President of CODEM, to discuss the organization’s mission and how it’s driving growth across the region.They dive into how CODEM works to strengthen economic development, improve infrastructure, and create long-term opportunities for the RGV. From roads and bridges to business expansion, this conversation explores how smart planning today builds a stronger tomorrow.🎧 Tune in to learn more about how collaboration and infrastructure investment are paving the w...
2025-10-3128 minRGV Business JournalBehind the Headlines: Meet Reporter Kristen Mosbrucker-Garza | RGV Business JournalEver wondered who’s behind the stories that keep the Rio Grande Valley informed? 🗞️In this episode of the RGV Business Journal, host Naxiely Lopez sits down with Kristen Mosbrucker-Garza, the reporter working behind the scenes to bring the region’s most important business stories to light.Kristen shares what it’s like to cover the RGV’s growing business landscape, how she finds the stories that matter most, and why local journalism plays a key role in connecting our community.🎧 Tune in for an inside look at the reporting process, the mission behind the Business...
2025-10-2525 min73 IN THE RGV73 IN THE RGV - FT8 on the 10 METER BANDWelcome to Episode 11 of the 73 IN THE RGV Podcast with your host KI5DOG.In
this episode of the 73 IN THE RGV podcast, the first podcast dedicated
to Amateur Radio Operators, Actions, Activities, and Events in the Rio
Grande Valley in Deep South Texas, KI5DOG (David) shares with you: What is FT8 on the 10Meter Band and how to get started making HF Contacts.LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:- Rio Grande Valley Amateur Radio Club: http://www.rgvarc.org- South Texas Amateur Repeater S...
2025-10-1800 minRGV Business JournalJournalism Meets Agriculture: The Citrus StoryIn this episode of the RGV Business Journal, Host Naxiely Lopez sits down with journalist Matt Wilson to explore the vital role of citrus in the Rio Grande Valley. 🍊From the fields to the marketplace, the citrus industry is more than agriculture — it’s a cornerstone of the Valley’s economy, culture, and identity. Matt shares his experience covering the industry, the challenges growers face, and why telling these stories matters for the future of the region.🎙️ Whether you’re in business, agriculture, or simply curious about the industries shaping the RGV, this conversation shines a light on how journalism...
2025-10-0213 min73 IN THE RGV73 IN THE RGV - AMATEUR RADIO BAND PLANWelcome to Episode 10 of the 73 IN THE RGV Podcast with your host KI5DOG.In
this episode of the 73 IN THE RGV podcast, the first podcast dedicated
to Amateur Radio Operators, Actions, Activities, and Events in the Rio
Grande Valley in Deep South Texas, KI5DOG (David) shares with you: What is the AMATEUR RADIO BAND PLAN and how to understand it, use it to your communication's advantage, and enjoy it.LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:- Rio Grande Valley Amateur Radio Club: http://www.rgvarc.org- S...
2025-09-2000 minRGV Business JournalTransportation, Investment & Infrastructure in TexasIn this episode of the RGV Business Journal, host Naxiely Lopez sits down with Teclo Garcia to dive into one of the most important topics shaping our region: transportation and investment in Texas.They discuss how funding for infrastructure along the border impacts not just the Rio Grande Valley, but the entire state and even the country. With thousands of delivery trucks crossing the border daily, the improvements made here ripple out across America—fueling commerce, strengthening supply chains, and driving growth nationwide.Tune in to learn why investing in South Texas infrastructure is an investment in the fut...
2025-09-1920 minRGV Business JournalRGV Business Journal Episode 1: Sharing Stories, Supporting BusinessesIntroducing the RGV Business Journal! 🌟Join host Naxiely Lopez and Edinburg Mayor Ramiro Garza as they kick off the very first episode of the RGV Business Journal. This podcast is all about highlighting the businesses, leaders, and stories that keep the Rio Grande Valley thriving.The goal? To connect our communities and keep you in the know about the opportunities shaping the RGV’s future. From small businesses to major developments, the RGV Business Journal is your inside look at what’s happening across the Valley.👉 Subscribe today and be part of the conversation that’s moving the RGV fo...
2025-09-1325 min
The Rio Grande PodcastS3.EP22 - Josh Moroles, Documentary Filmmaker: Hidden Issues in the RGVJosh Moroles is a local filmmaker working to make sure the community is aware of the issues around them. Find out what's happening right in our backyards - From cat deaths to polluted waters. Listen in to find out what's going on and the things we can do to make our lives better here at home. Thanks for watching and don’t forget to subscribe to and a big thanks to for the conversation! #956 #rgvText us! Support the show
2025-09-0355 min
The Sweet Tea SeriesRGV’s Red Wave: Border, Water, and Rep. Janie Lopez | The Sweet Tea SeriesExplore the Rio Grande Valley’s political shift with Rep. Janie Lopez and Ariana Guajardo on The Sweet Tea Series. They dive into border security, the water crisis affecting RGV agriculture, and why the RGV turned red in the last election.Keywords:Rio Grande Valley, RGV, Texas politics, border security, water crisis, Janie Lopez, conservative values, Texas House District 37, infrastructure funding, cartel challenges, agriculture, Republican shift, Red Wave, Ariana Guajardo, Sweet Tea Series
2025-09-0234 min73 IN THE RGV73 IN THE RGV - RADIO PROPAGATIONWelcome to Episode 9 of the 73 IN THE RGV Podcast with your host KI5DOG.In this episode of the 73 IN THE RGV podcast, the first podcast dedicated to Amateur Radio Operators, Actions, Activities, and Events in the Rio Grande Valley in Deep South Texas, KI5DOG (David) shares with you: What is RADIO PROPAGATION, understand it, identify it, predict it, use it to your communication's advantage, and enjoy it.Plus: Amateur Radio based Activities, Events in the Rio Grande Valley.LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:- Rio Grande V...
2025-08-2800 min
The Rio Grande PodcastS3.EP21 - Dr. Rashmi Chandran: Rediscovering “Health” in the Rio Grande ValleyWhat is “health”? ‘AltaCair Foundation’ President Dr. Rashmi Chandran joins the show this week to help us reimagine what health is all about - and to invite the public to AltaCair’s Accelerator health summit happening in Harlingen on September 4th. Her foundation works to address the basic needs of underserved populations here at home, connecting individuals to programs and organizations that can help meet the needs they struggle with. This type of work is definitely needed in the Rio Grande Valley and we want to say Thank You to everyone working with groups like AltaCair for all the ama...
2025-08-2738 min
The Rio Grande PodcastS3.EP20: We Asked a 956 Movie Theatre Manager What Employees Wish You KnewWe’ve been wanting to talk to people in different industries and work settings and pick their brains on what they wish the public knew about their jobs - in order to help us be more understanding with them and get a better idea of what things are really like for them behind the scenes. Our first contestant for this conversation is Mr. Montez, an assistant manager at one of our local movie theatres here in the Valley. We wanted to ask him some “Is it true” type of questions and see if there’s anything that movie the...
2025-08-2027 min73 IN THE RGV73 IN THE RGV - Joining An Amateur Radio ClubWelcome to Episode 8 of the 73 IN THE RGV Podcast with your host KI5DOG.In this episode of the 73 IN THE RGV podcast, the first podcast dedicated to Amateur Radio Operators, Actions, Activities, and Events in the Rio Grande Valley in Deep South Texas, KI5DOG (David) shares with you: Information about joining our exciting and community-driven world of amateur radio clubs. Plus: Amateur Radio based Activities, Events in the Rio Grande Valley.LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:- Rio Grande Valley Amateur Radio Club: http://www.rgvarc.or...
2025-08-1000 min
The Rio Grande PodcastS3.EP18: Dr. Ebere Iheanacho, DDS - “ExtractionKing” on RGV Dental HealthMeet Dr. Ebere Iheanacho, DDS - Also known as the Extraction King! Listen in and discover how this Dallas, Texas dentist found himself all the way down in McAllen and how he fell in love with the Rio Grande Valley. We’re talking dental health and myths, pro tips and warnings, and Dr. Ebere highlights his new FREE dental clinic event coming soon Huge thanks to Dr. Iheanacho for everything he’s doing for the community and for brining the world of dentistry to life! Make sure to follow his IG @ExtractionKing and don’t forget to support...
2025-08-0651 min
The Rio Grande PodcastS3.EP17 - ArnieTex: South Texas’ BBQ Legend Arnie SegoviaArnieTex is in the house! There’s nobody bigger in the BBQ world than the Valley’s own Arnie Segovia, and this week he’s hopping on the mic with us for some barbecue legend origins stories as he reflects on his incredible cookoff career and the culmination of his new cookbook. ArnieTex has amassed over 1 MILLION YouTube subscribers and 700K Instagram followers and has earned the loyalty of his fans who trust his Mexican-American cuisine expertise. Check out his social medias and try one of his hometown dishes! #ForTheValleyThanks for listening and don’t forget to subsc...
2025-07-3042 min
La Fe Sin Filtro Y Una Docena De HuevosUn Mundo Sin Fronteras PT 2En el Jardín de José Sánchez del Rio, JP y Hugo continúan conversando sobre las redadas de ICE y lo que nos hace pensar como Católicos. Que haría José Sánchez Del Rio?
2025-07-2222 min73 IN THE RGV73 IN THE RGV - Joining A NetWelcome to Episode 7 of the 73 IN THE RGV Podcast with your host KI5DOG.In this episode of the 73 IN THE RGV podcast, the first podcast dedicated to Amateur Radio Operators, Actions, Activities, and Events in the Rio Grande Valley in Deep South Texas, KI5DOG (David) shares with you: We dive into the exciting and community-driven world of amateur radio, specifically, the experience of "joining a ham radio net". Whether you are a newly licensed operator or a curious enthusiast looking to expand your skills, this episode is packed with everything you need t...
2025-07-2200 min73 IN THE RGV73 IN THE RGV - Getting Your Vanity CallsignWelcome to Episode 6 of the 73 IN THE RGV Podcast with your host KI5DOG.In this episode of the 73 IN THE RGV podcast, the first podcast dedicated to Amateur Radio Operators, Actions, Activities, and Events in the Rio Grande Valley in Deep South Texas, KI5DOG (David) shares with you: A HUGE Shout Out to the AMATEUR RADIO COMMUNITY in the HILL COUNTRY and CENTRAL TEXAS after the disastrous flooding over the Independence Day Holiday Weekend. How to get your Vanity Call Sign through the FCC.Plus: Amateur Radio ba...
2025-07-0600 min
The Rio Grande PodcastS3.EP14 - RGV Unpopular Opinions: The Valley Said What??Text us! Support the show
2025-06-2526 min
The Rio Grande PodcastS3.EP13 - San Antonio (ISN’T) South Texas, Local Eats, & Valley ViewsThis week three friends sit back and discuss some RGV-focused topics: Is San Antonio considered South Texas? Favorite local food joint? How do we pronounce the “Grande” in Rio Grande Valley? Favorite music artist? Thanks for supporting the show and don’t forget to subscribe to the podcast on YouTube to help us grow and bring you more of the content you love ❤️ #ForTheValley #riograndevalleyText us! Support the show
2025-06-1826 min73 IN THE RGV73 IN THE RGV - Getting Your FCC Registration Number or FRNWelcome to Episode 5 of the 73 IN THE RGV Podcast with your host KI5DOG.In this episode of the 73 IN THE RGV podcast, the first podcast dedicated to Amateur Radio Operators, Actions, Activities, and Events in the Rio Grande Valley in Deep South Texas, KI5DOG (David) shares with you: How to get your FRN (FCC Registration Number) that is necessary to getting your new amateur radio callsign easier and faster to get you on the air.Plus: Amateur Radio based Activities, Events in the Rio Grande Valley and a special s...
2025-06-1500 min
The Rio Grande PodcastS3.EP11 - Physical Exercise for the Mind with Aaron Trains, Personal TrainerMeet Aaron, a personal trainer who used rigorous physical exercise to help develop his own mental strength in the wake of anxiety and depression. There’s a lot of great reasons to get up and get moving - and mental wellness is at the top of the list. #rgv #956 #riograndevalley #mentalhealth #exercise Text us! Support the show
2025-06-0532 min73 IN THE RGV73 IN THE RGV - Making Your First ContactWelcome to Episode 4 of the 73 IN THE RGV Podcast with your host KI5DOG.In this episode of the 73 IN THE RGV podcast, the first podcast dedicated to Amateur Radio Operators, Actions, Activities, and Events in the Rio Grande Valley in Deep South Texas, KI5DOG (David) shares with you: Now that you are licensed and have your equipment, it is time to Make Your First Contact. Plus: Amateur Radio based Activities, Events in the Rio Grande Valley and a special shout out.LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
2025-06-0200 min
The Rio Grande PodcastS3.EP10 - Unexplained RGV: Edinburg UFO Incident and More with Daniel Alan Jones and Lillian JimenezText us! Support the show
2025-05-2943 min73 IN THE RGV73 IN THE RGV - Getting EquippedWelcome to Episode 3 of the 73 IN THE RGV Podcast with your host KI5DOG.In this episode of the 73 IN THE RGV podcast, the first podcast dedicated to Amateur Radio Operators, Actions, Activities, and Events in the Rio Grande Valley in Deep South Texas, KI5DOG (David) shares with you: About getting the gear you will need to make your contact as a LICENSED Amateur Radio Operator. Plus: Amateur Radio based Activities, Events in the Rio Grande Valley and a special shout out.LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:...
2025-05-1800 min
The Rio Grande PodcastS3.EP8.PT2 - La Villa Reál: 30 Years of Entertainment HISTORY, ContinuedThe story of the RGV’s rich history and culture is not complete without a look back at Mr. “Nano” Ramirez’s massive contributions to the music and entertainment scene in the Valley. He built the most thrilling entertainment venue the area had ever experienced: La Villa Real Events Center. Major artists like George Strait, Metallica, Selena Quintanilla, Motley Crue, Garth Brooks, Merle Haggard, Waylon Jennings, Megadeth, AC/DC, Linkin Park, Jerry Lee Luis, and Juan Gabriel have all performed at La Villa Real. How did THE VALLEY manage to book such major influential artists at the peak of t...
2025-05-0831 min73 IN THE RGV73 IN THE RGV - Getting Licensed + an interviewWelcome to Episode 2 of the 73 IN THE RGV Podcast with your host KI5DOG.In this episode of the 73 IN THE RGV podcast, the first podcast dedicated to Amateur Radio Operators, Actions, Activities, and Events in the Rio Grande Valley in Deep South Texas, KI5DOG (David) shares with you: talk about getting your Amateur Radio Operator license before keying the microphone. PLUS, we have a very special interview with BARRY GOLDSMITH of the NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE - BROWNSVILLE/RIO GRANDE VALLEY.LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:- Rio Grande Va...
2025-05-0400 min
The Rio Grande PodcastS3.EP8 - La Villa Reál: 30 Years of MASSIVE Entertainment in the Valley, Pt.1The story of the RGV’s rich history and culture is not complete without a look back at Mr. “Nano” Ramirez’s massive contributions to the music and entertainment scene in the Valley. He built the most thrilling entertainment venue the area had ever experienced: La Villa Real Events Center. Major artists like George Strait, Metallica, Selena Quintanilla, Motley Crue, Garth Brooks, Merle Haggard, Waylon Jennings, Megadeth, AC/DC, Linkin Park, Jerry Lee Luis, and Juan Gabriel have all performed at La Villa Real. How did THE VALLEY manage to book such major influential artists at the peak of t...
2025-04-3032 min73 IN THE RGV73 IN THE RGV - The IntroductionWelcome to Episode 1 of the 73 IN THE RGV Podcast with your host KI5DOG.In this episode of the 73 IN THE RGV podcast, KI5DOG (David) shares with you the first podcast dedicated to Amateur Radio Operators, Actions, Activities, and Events in the Rio Grande Valley in Deep South Texas.In this episode, you will hear KI5DOG talk about the task, purpose, mission, and vision of this new podcast and share some upcoming events throughout the Amateur Radio Community in the Rio Grande Valley.So sit back, as
I invite y...
2025-04-1900 min
The Rio Grande PodcastICYMI - Valley Drivers, Llanteros, and Why We Love the RGVThis week the podcast crew sits down to dissect the feedback on a recent RGV #Reddit post on reasons why we love the #956. Sit back and enjoy a fun conversation on the area you know so well - and hear Sam’s take on the whole ‘Valley Drivers’ situation. Thanks for subscribing to @TheRioGrandePodcast on YouTube and for following the show on social media! Have a great week everybody and don’t forget to smile! #ForTheValley #RGV #956 #LocalPodcast “ICYMI” is a series taking us back to previously released episodes from past seasons that gained traction on social media a...
2025-04-1030 min
The Rio Grande PodcastS3.EP3: Only-In-The-RGV?? Unraveling ‘Valleyisms’This week we go back and dissect the comments section of one of our TikTok posts, discovering things that are apparently Only-In-The-Valley with a guest from California for some insight and verification. How many things can you think of that are only in the 956? #ForTheValley Thanks for subscribing to the show on YouTube and for the incredible IG support! Don’t forget that Valley Homework. Have a great week and happy listening! #956 #rgv #southtexas #valleyText us! Support the show
2025-03-0528 min
Rio Grande Guardian's PodcastTIPA President Dante Galeazzi speaks at RGV Legislative Tour eventMISSION, Texas - Many of the state lawmakers that participate in next week’s Texas Water Day at the Capitol will likely know about the dire water crisis facing the Rio Grande Valley.Certainly those that traveled the region as part of the Rio Grande Valley Partnership’s recent 2025 RGV Legislative Tour will be aware.That is because they heard twice from Dante Galeazzi, president and CEO of the Texas International Produce Association. He spoke once during a panel discussion that focused on water availability challenges. That was held at the Center for Education & Economic Deve...
2025-02-2709 min
Rio Grande Guardian's PodcastBusinessman Alonzo Cantu addresses the RGV Broadband CoalitionWESLACO, Texas - Famed businessman Alonzo Cantu has thrown his support behind the work of the Rio Grande Valley Broadband Coalition. The RGVBC unveiled its RGV Broadband and Digital Opportunity Plan at the offices of the Lower Rio Grande Valley Development Council. The coalition noted that the Valley still lacks reliable internet access, holding the region back in a world that increasingly depends on digital tools. The coalition says its plan is a “bold initiative to ensure every home, business, and community anchor institution in the region has access to affordable, reliable high-speed internet.”Cant...
2025-02-2602 min
The Rio Grande PodcastS3.EP1 - Wildlife Photography in the RGV with Manny MarquezAaand we’re back! Welcome to Week 1 of the THIRD season of @TheRioGrandePodcast! We’re starting this thing off by heading to the brush country at Santa Cruz Ranch with local wildlife photographer @peaceofwildlifetx Emmanuel Marquez to get a glimpse of his work in the RGV oasis that is our backyard wildlife scene. The Valley’s parks and refuges are full of breathtaking moments that are waiting to be captured, and Manny helps us get started in the hobby that has given him both peace and adventure right here at home. Don’t forget to watch @Area956’s content t...
2025-02-1934 min
Rio Grande Guardian's PodcastBrian Godinez previews Building the Valley - Uniting for RGV Regional Growth eventMCALLEN, TEXAS - The Institute for Leadership in Capital Projects (I-LinCP) is partnering with the Rio Grande Valley Partnership to present its inaugural program in the Rio Grande Valley.Building the Valley - Uniting for RGV Regional Growth will highlight the significant of organizations like the RGV Partnership and UT-Rio Grande Valley in shaping the region’s future. The program will also explore the opportunities in the region for AEC (architecture, engineering, and construction) and allied professionals. The event takes place Thursday, Feb. 13, between 11:00 and...
2025-02-1205 min
Mikey On MuteEpisode 16 - Compassion RGVI interview the three high school students who make up Compassion RGV (Rio Grande Valley): Natalia, Alethia, and MJ. Compassion RGV is a project of enhancing mental health resources in Southern Texas. Their main goals are to shift how mental health is perceived, especially in the Hispanic community, as it is heavily undervalued. You can find them on Instagram and Tiktok at CompassionRGV and you can donate on Cash App at $CompassionRGV
2025-01-2930 min
Rio Grande Guardian's PodcastEverything said at Futuro RGV's "RGV Water Solutions Forum"MCALLEN, Texas - Futuro RGV, a citizenry group dedicated to improving quality of life in the Rio Grande Valley, recently held an in-depth discussion of the region’s water crisis.The RGV Water Solutions Forum was held at Rio Bank’s corporate headquarters in McAllen.The panel discussing the water crisis consisted of former McAllen Mayor Jim Darling, former Hidalgo County Irrigation District No. 2 Manager Sonny Hinojosa, and Mark Vega, general manager of McAllen Public Utility.Both Darling and Hinojosa are members of Region M Pl...
2025-01-281h 29
The News Front PodcastHouse Buyers RGV Transforms Home Selling in Brownsville with Fast Cash OffersHouse Buyers RGV, a cash home buyer company, is happy to announce the launch of its efficient “Sell Your House Fast” service in Brownsville, Texas. The new service has been expertly designed to help homeowners sell their homes in an alternative way to the traditional route and without the worry of repairs, cleaning, open houses, closing costs, or real estate agent commissions.Dedicated to offering clients the quickest and easiest solution to sell their property, House Buyers RGV leverages its experience of the Brownsville real estate market to provide homeowners in a variety of difficult situations access to competitive cash offe...
2025-01-0601 min
Entre Hermanos - El podcast de Río GrandeFrom the RGV Community for Christ! - with GabrielaGabriela shares her story with us today. She is from the RGV (Rio Grande Valley) community and is a good example of how Rio Grande Bible Ministries has had an effect on its home location. Many people over they years have come from the community to take classes for personal growth and enrichment, not necessarily a degree. Listen in a hear how God changes lives right here in the RGV!
2024-11-2329 min
The Rio Grande PodcastThe Rio Grande Podcast: Season 2 RecapAnd just like that, Season 2 is all wrapped up! Thanks so much for supporting the show and a huge thank-you to all our guests for an awesome season and great conversations. We can’t wait to be back next season - things are going to look a whole lot different! Don’t forget to subscribe to @TheRioGrandePodcast on YouTube and social media and thanks for being a great Rio Grande Peep! #rgv #956 #mcallen #podcast Text us! Support the show
2024-09-1239 min
Rio Grande Guardian's PodcastEverything Paul Rodriguez when he was presented with a leadership award from Futuro RGVMCALLEN, Texas - Paul Rodriguez, a board trustee with South Texas College and CEO of Valley Land Title, Co., has praised the work of Futuro RGV. Rodriguez was presented with a Rio Grande Valley Leader award by Futuro recently. The event was held at the Radisson Airport Hotel in McAllen. After being presented with the award, Rodriguez gave remarks. Most of them were aimed at Futuro. “I think Futuro RGV is an incredible organization. For those of you that may not know or may not remember, it actua...
2024-09-0910 minThe Rio Grande PodcastWelcome to The Rio Grande Valley!This week we’re going back to the basics and talking about what the RGV is all about and giving visitors some insight in the area known as Deep South Texas. Welcome to McAllen, and welcome to the Rio Grande Valley! #ForTheValley #McAllen #RGV #956 Text us! Support the show
2024-09-0240 minThe Rio Grande PodcastThe Rio Grande Podcast: Valley Drivers, Llanteros and Why We Love The RGVThis week the podcast crew sits down to dissect the feedback on a recent RGV #Reddit post on reasons why we love the #956. Sit back and enjoy a fun conversation on the area you know so well - and hear Sam’s take on the whole ‘Valley Drivers’ situation. Thanks for subscribing to @TheRioGrandePodcast on YouTube and for following the show on social media! Have a great week everybody and don’t forget to smile! #ForTheValley #RGV #956 #LocalPodcast Text us! Support the show
2024-08-2730 min
Rio Grande Guardian's PodcastHarmon: There is a sustained water crisis in the RGVSAN BENITO, Texas - Craig Harmon, general manager of Cameron County Irrigation District No. 2 and Cameron County Drainage District No. 3, recently had a private meeting with U.S. Rep. Vicente Gonzalez. Also at the meeting were officials with the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation. In his power point presentation, Harmon did not hold back. He said he wanted to give the bottom line up front. So, the first slide said: 1. There is a sustained water crisis in the RGV.2. The water crisis is destroying the RGV agricultu...
2024-08-2345 min
Persistence in Adversity with Dr. AdamePodcast with Dr. Adame: Dr. Annabelle Palomo, RGV CollegeDr. Annabelle Palomo, a native of the Rio Grande Valley, boasts an impressive academic background, having obtained a bachelor's, master’s, and doctorate in education from the University of Texas Pan American. With 17 years of experience in various educational roles, including teacher, principal, and executive director, she eventually pursued her passion by establishing a post-secondary institute to enhance educational opportunities for local students.
In addition to founding Rio Grande Valley College (RGV College), where she serves as CEO, Dr. Palomo has made significant strides in the Nursing and Allied Health Fields. Starting with just five students in a Certified Nurse Ai...
2024-08-0146 minThe Rio Grande PodcastHarlingen’s Cookies4College: A Sweet Small-Business Journey with Madelynn BirdwellThis week we sit down with Madelynn Birdwell, founder/owner of the beloved ‘Cookies4College’ in Harlingen. We wanted to know: How do you grow a small unknown college-saving side gig into a thriving high-demand business that everyone loves? This is another RGV market/pop-up shop success story that you’ll love, from an incredible local you should know. Thanks for listening and don’t forget to follow @Cookies4CollegeRGV and @TheRioGrandePodcast on social media to support the journey! #ForTheValley #CookieLady #RGV #956 Text us! Support the show
2024-07-151h 09The Rio Grande PodcastNana's Taqueria: A Little Piece of Beautiful México in Weslaco, TXHave you been to @NanasTaqueria in Weslaco? What has blossomed into a ‘Business of the Year’ success story started out as a last-ditch effort to stay afloat in the middle of life-changing moves on a small corner lot in Weslaco. Listen in as owner Roxanna Treviño looks back on a whirlwind journey of determination, necessity, vulnerability and love that has shaped the story of Nana’s Taqueria. We want to thank the Treviño family for an amazing gem the RGV has come to embrace and take pride in. Don’t forget to follow @TheRioGrandePodcast on social media and on You...
2024-07-0858 minThe Rio Grande PodcastRick Torres, Firefighter/Paramedic (Pt.1) - Inside Fire Rescue in the RGVA look inside the lives of our local first responders: Rick Torres is a 10-year veteran firefighter with 2 years of service as a paramedic. As citizens/residents of our communities, we don’t always get to see what really goes on inside the lives and careers of our first-responder neighbors. We learn today that the role of a firefighter involves a lot more than just responding to fire calls, and we grow in our appreciation for what they do. Enjoy today’s episode and don’t forget to thank your local first responders for all the work they do to keep...
2024-06-1739 minThe Rio Grande PodcastSea Turtle, Inc. - Saving the Planet’s Sea Turtles with Wendy Knight, CEOThis week we take a deep dive into the work going on at Sea Turtle, Inc. in South Padre Island. Have you visited yet? Sea Turtle, Inc. truly is the future of sea turtle conservation for the world. The most common species found here is the Kemp’s Ridley Sea Turtle - a critically endangered species. One of the facility’s biggest objectives? Educating the community and teaching us how we do our part to save the turtles and the ecosystems that empower them to thrive. Don’t forget to follow @SeaTurtleIncTX and @TheRioGrandePodcast on social media to stay...
2024-06-1042 minThe Rio Grande PodcastGilbert Hernandez of ‘Búho’: The Community Bookstore that Brownsville NeededHave you checked out ‘Búho’ bookstore? Búho is the Rio Grande Valley’s newest local bookstore in downtown Brownsville. What started out literally as a wandering shower thought turned into a local gem of a bookshop that is bringing people together every week to help build the sense of community that the 956 deserves. From regular wine tastings to adult spelling bees, you can find more than just your favorite book at Búho. The man behind the operation? Gilbert Hernandez, owner/operator, full-time genius, part-time birder and occasional’Forest Gump’. Thanks for listening in and don’t forget to foll...
2024-06-0341 minThe Rio Grande Podcast‘Freddsters’: 1.4 Million on TikTok! Meet Major Foodie-Content Creator Alfredo GarciaFreddsters is in the building! This week we sit down with viral tik tok foodie Alfredo Garcia to talk about his career in content creation and explore how he was able to go from working with the family business to exploding into social media stardom. We also discuss how he found himself in the middle of a viral situation with singer Cardi B! With over 1 million TikTok- and 750k Instagram followers, ‘@Freddsters’ is a name everyone in the RGV should know. Follow him to check out his awesome recipes for fajitas, tacos, burgers, and all the foods South Texans know...
2024-05-2051 minThe Rio Grande PodcastRGV Dietician Isaac Anzaldua - Food, Culture and PerspectiveThis week we head to Rio Grande City to talk to Mr. Isaac Anzaldua, Registered Dietician. You might recognize his last name as he is connected to the people that the Anzalduas Park and Bridge around Mission, Texas are named after. Join the conversation as he reflects on his love of food, culture and his people. Be sure to follow @nuestro.nutrition and @TheRioGrandePodcast on social media for more great local 956 conversations. Text us! Support the show
2024-04-1554 minThe Rio Grande PodcastMeet Brody Rivers: Texas Country Music Star Rising Straight from Cameron CountyBrody Rivers is a rising Texas country music artist from Rio Hondo, TX.Join him on his journey through the raging country music scene as he reflects on the start of his newfound career and all that has come with it, including a shot at competing on the hit series American Idol.Be sure to check out @BrodyRiversMusic on social media and your favorite streaming service to support local talent straight from the RGV! Don’t forget to follow and subscribe to @TheRioGrandePodcast on IG and YouTube! Text us! Support the show
2024-04-0155 minThe Rio Grande PodcastIngrid Monserrat: “Planting” Change in the RGV with Maria Cruz CuisineHey RGV! Season Two is here and it’s starting off with a bang! Meet Ingrid Monserrat, local visionary and owner of Maria Cruz Cuisine plant-based restaurant. Driven by a mission to “Be the Change”, Ms. Ingrid has found her passion of guiding the community to a healthier lifestyle through wellness and plant-based eating. Growing up around ranching and delicious (but not always healthy) Mexican foods, she knew first-hand the challenge it can be to swap beloved traditional meals for sustainable, better options. The solution? Maria Cruz Cuisine restaurant, where even the biggest carnivores can be turned into believers. Listen...
2024-03-251h 01
Rio Grande Guardian's PodcastEverything AT&T and VTX1 said at the RGV Hispanic Chamber's intergovernmental update eventMCALLEN, Texas - Among the sponsors of the Rio Grande Valley Hispanic Chamber of Commerce’s “RGV Intergovernmental Update” luncheon were two top internet service providers in the region - AT&T and VTX1.As such, both were given the opportunity to have representatives speak from the podium at the start of the program. Mario Barragan, director of external and legislative affairs for AT&T in South Texas, spoke on behalf of his company. Barragan is a board member of the RGV Hispanic Chamber. Barragan...
2024-02-2905 min
Rio Grande Guardian's PodcastCanales: RGV's top priority must be waterMCALLEN, Texas - State Rep. Terry Canales, a three-term chairman of the House Committee on Transportation, is perhaps best known for securing millions of dollars for transportation in the Rio Grande Valley. However, he told the audience at a Rio Grande Valley Partnership event on Wednesday evening that henceforth his priority will be water. The event, held at the Radisson Hotel in McAllen, was titled “Rio Grande Valley Legislative Appreciation Reception.” Other legislators at the event were state Senators Juan Hinojosa and Morgan LaMantia, and state Representatives R.D. ‘Bobby’ G...
2024-01-1903 min
Rio Grande Guardian's PodcastBCIC to host inaugural RGV StartUp WeekBROWNSVILLE, Texas - The Brownsville Community Improvement Corporation is to host, for the first time, a StartUp Week in May 2024 to celebrate entrepreneurialism. Nathan Burkhart, vice president of entrepreneurship and innovation at BCIC, made the announcement at the group’s StartUp Texas Emerging Industries Pitch Competition, held Dec. 14 at the eBridge Center for Business and Commercialization.StartUp Week will also be held at the eBridge Center, from May 3 to May 10, 2024. BCIC's partner on the venture will be UT-Rio Grande Valley’s Entrepreneurship and Commercialization Center.“We...
2023-12-1705 min
Rio Grande Guardian's PodcastEverything Rene Alcalá said at the State of the RGV Real Estate ForumWESLACO, Texas - A senior executive with Killam Development says demand for industrial real estate in Mexico and the southern US is accelerating with his company receiving inquires from Alaska, Indiana and Illinois.Rene Alcalá, director of business development, RGV leasing and sales for Killam, was a panelist at the recent State of the RGV Real Estate Forum hosted by the Rio Grande Valley Partnership and RGV First. Killam is developing a large industrial park near the Anzalduas International Bridge in Mission.“The demand for industrial real estate in Mexico and the southern US is acc...
2023-12-0308 min
Joshua MorolesThe Sesh Podcast: Navigating the Rio Grande Valley Housing Market with William Esquivel of Golds FinancialJoin host Joshua Moroles on The Sesh Podcast for an enlightening episode as we delve into the dynamics of the Rio Grande Valley (RGV) housing market. In this engaging session, we're thrilled to have William Esquivel, the astute Regional Manager for Golds Financial, as our esteemed guest. Together, they explore the intricacies of the real estate landscape in the RGV.
This episode offers a deep dive into the current trends shaping the housing market in the region. Joshua and William discuss key factors influencing property values, investment opportunities, and the future outlook of real estate in the...
2023-11-221h 00The Rio Grande PodcastDaniel Seddiqui: The “Most Traveled Person in America” Visits the RGVIt was his Grande Finale! The “most-traveled man in America” has spent years exploring the United States to get a taste of life and work in every corner of the country. He had seen and experienced it all - except for one last piece of the map: the great South Texas. Now that he’s finally conquered his “final frontier” in the RGV, he’s sat down with @TheRioGrandePodcast to talk about his experience exploring the southern border! Join us for a fun, interesting and curious conversation with Mr. Daniel Seddiqui as he reflects on his final stop across the country...
2023-11-0850 min
Rio Grande Guardian's PodcastAn interview with Jon Stevens, senior managing director for Teach For America-RGVMISSION, Texas - Teach For America has released a list of colleges and universities contributing the greatest number of alumni to its teaching corps. Among large schools, UT-Rio Grande Valley is part of the top ten contributing the greatest number of alumni to the TFA corps, with more than 19 graduates leading classrooms this school year.“Establishing strong recruitment partnerships with the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley is crucial for TFA RGV because it allows us to access a diverse and culturally aware talent pool that intimately understands our com...
2023-11-0308 minThe Rio Grande PodcastGiovanni Cardenas: All About Alpaquita RanchIn this episode, we head to the amazing Alpaquita Ranch in Monte Alto to meet owner Giovanni Cardenas and learn all about the alpaca farm that has taken the Rio Grande Valley by storm. We talk the farm’s origin story, Alpaca fun facts, and discuss all the things that make @AlpaquitaRanch a must-visit attraction in the RGV. Can you name the two types of alpacas in the world? Do you know what hospitals and clinics around the US are starting to use alpacas for? Find out in this episode of @TheRioGrandePodcast! Don’t forget to follow the show on y...
2023-11-011h 03The Rio Grande PodcastThe Rio Grande Podcast: Hanging Out with the Crew Part 2Have you seen the “Big Bird”?? Did they ever find Pancho Villa? Where did ‘fajitas’ and all those famous fajita tacos come from? And are all local-market commercials as witty as Valley commercials, or is that just an RGV thing? Listen in as the podcast peeps talk about local history and culture. Don’t forget to follow the show on social media and on your favorite podcast platform! Text us! Support the show
2023-10-2535 min
Rio Grande Guardian's PodcastGawande's "The Cost Conundrum" revisited at RGV Health Equity ConferenceMISSION, TEXAS - The program notes for a recent healthcare conference in the Rio Grande Valley pointed out that the region’s “expensive and tough-to-access” healthcare system came under the microscope in 2009 thanks to a landmark article in The New Yorker by Dr. Atul Gawande.The article, titled “The Cost Conundrum” became “mandatory reading during the debate surrounding President Obama’s Affordable Care Act in 2010,” the program stated.Gawande’s article was referenced a number of times by the conference’s keynote speaker, Aneesh Chopra, president of Care Journey and former U.S. chie...
2023-10-2350 minThe Rio Grande PodcastArianna Cazares, RDH: Brushing Up On Dental Hygiene 101 in the 956Does your toothbrush look like it’s having a bad hair day? Do you still brush in circles?? And what’s with the whole “coated tongue” phenomenon? Listen in as local Registered Dental Hygienst Arianna Cazares fills us in on all the need-to-know basics on oral health and shares her vision of making the RGV a better place one smile at a time. Thank you Ms. Arianna, also known as @TheRGVRDH, for helping us “brush up” on this week’s great topic! Text us! Support the show
2023-10-1852 min
Rio Grande Guardian's PodcastAndrew Canon explains why he is leaving RGV Metropolitan Planning OrganizationEDINBURG, Texas - RGV Metropolitan Planning Organization Executive Director Andrew Canon has announced his departure from the group. Canon has held this position, plus that of one of its predecessors. Hidalgo County MPO, for almost 20 years.In an exclusive interview with the Rio Grande Guardian International News Service, Canon said he had been mulling the decision for many months. He said he came to the decision partly because of family considerations.Canon’s last day at the MPO will be towards the end of Oct...
2023-09-2937 min
Rio Grande Guardian's PodcastAbbott: The Rio Grande Valley is the epicenter of the booming Texas economyEDINBURG, Texas - Gov. Greg Abbott was the keynote speaker at the Rio Grande Valley Partnership’s recent 2023 RGV Economic Summit.The event took place at the Bert Ogden Arena in Edinburg, with hundreds of community, business, and political leaders in attendance. Abbott was applauded throughout his 25-minute speech.He started his speech by thanking state Sen. Juan Hinojosa. The McAllen Democrat had introduced Abbott. Abbott said that as a delegation, the Rio Grande Valley’s state lawmakers are “a force to be reckoned with.”
2023-08-2025 minThe Rio Grande PodcastWhat Do You Love About the Valley?In this episode, Sam sits down and explores his reasons for loving the place he calls home. What do you love about the RGV?Text us! Support the show
2023-08-0929 minThe Rio Grande PodcastJavier De Leon: Birding in the Rio Grande ValleyHave you ever gone bird watching in the RGV? Did you know it's one of the Valley's greatest tourist attractions? Join us for a chat with Mr. Javier De Leon, Park Superintendent at Estero Llano Grande State Park in Weslaco as we delve into the wonderful world of birding in South Texas. Text us! Support the show
2023-08-0949 min
The Cheers PodcastHistory of Environmental Resistance in the 'RGV'This episode is about the history of the environmental resistance movement in the 'RGV' for the past ten years. To help me with this, I am joined by Bekah Hinojosa. A local environmental activist and organizer that has sacrificed so much in this resistance to protect our local ecology and return the land back into native hands.The first half starts with public comments submitted in front of the ‘Brownsville’ Commission Meeting on February 7, 2023, by Sandra Trevino, Nancy Guevarra, Jose Jimenez, Emma Guevarra, Sara Stapleton-Barrera, Bekah Hinojosa, Juan Mancias, and Christopher Basaldu. All suppor...
2023-03-061h 07
The Cheers PodcastRGV Greens at the People's DebateThis episode is a discussion with the RGV Greens on September 30, 2022, during the Texas Governor Debate, where they answered the debate questions and presented the RGV and Green perspective at the People’s Debate.We were located outside the UTRGV Edinburg campus where Democrat Beto O’Rourke and Republican Gregg Abbott were performing their one and only so-called “debate” for the ruling class, their donors, and their media.The good thing is we have grassroots movements pushing back against the “one evil party with two names” and are platforming socialism for the people of Texas.I was...
2022-10-061h 23
Rio Grande Guardian's PodcastAT&T Foundation donating $25,000 to address RGV's digital divideEDINBURG, Texas - The AT&T Foundation is donating $25,000 to the Rio Grande Valley Partnership to help address the Valley’s digital divide.At a news conference held at a UT-Rio Grande Valley facility in Edinburg, AT&T’s J.D. Salinas said his company was investing $2 billion across the country over the next three years to bridge the digital divide.With the funding, RGV Partnership is to ask UTRGV to provide courses to help those with limited or no computer skills. UTRGV says it will provide instruction in four centers across the Valley, one in e...
2022-07-2513 min
Rio Grande Guardian's PodcastThe RGV has around 20 neurologists. To reach the national average ratio it needs about 50 more.HARLINGEN, Texas - The Rio Grande Valley is far short of the national average for neurologists and the UT-Rio Grande Valley School of Medicine wants to do something about it. UTRGV SOM, along with its clinical arm, UT Health RGV, held a ribbon-cutting ceremony Tuesday for its eagerly-awaited Institute of Neuroscience (ION). Medical students will be trained at the 30,000-square-foot facility in order to go into the specialist field of neuroscience. Neurology is a branch of medicine dealing with disorders of the nervous system.In an interview with the Rio Grande Guardian International Ne...
2021-10-2703 min
Rio Grande Guardian's PodcastRGV Focus leaders discuss disappearance of students during COVID pandemicEDINBURG, TEXAS - The leaders of RGV Focus have given their views on the disappearance of Rio Grande Valley students from virtual classes during the COVID-19 pandemic.Some schools, such as Vanguard Academy, did not lose any students. Others in the region lost many. In the attached podcast, Ron Whitlock interviews Dr. Rodney Rodriguez, senator director of RGV Focus, Dr. Narciso Garcia, superintendent of Vanguard Academy, Cledia Hernandez, provost of Texas State Technical College in Harlingen, and Ramiro Gonzalez of Falcon Bank.In addition to a discussion on the students that disappeared, the s...
2021-06-0616 min
Rio Grande Guardian's PodcastMoney-swap arrangement allows RGV MPO to speed up Veterans Bridge project by four yearsBROWNSVILLE, Texas- A project to improve inspection facilities at Veterans International Bridge at Los Tomates in Brownsville is being fast-forwarded four years thanks to an innovative money-swap arrangement.The Rio Grande Valley Metropolitan Planning Organization would not have had money in the budget for the project until 2026, even though it is shovel-ready. So, the executive director of the RGV MPO, Andrew Canon, approached other large MPOs around the state to see if they could help.The North Central Texas Council of Governments said they could help. They agreed to essentially loan RGV MPO $14.6 million for...
2021-05-3007 min
Rio Grande Guardian's PodcastRGV in national spotlight but no local public radio or TV to cover itWESLACO, Texas - While the Rio Grande Valley is in the national spotlight due to the surge of unaccompanied children arriving at the southern border, there is no local NPR or PBS news service to cover it.This outrages a nonprofit set up to bring NPR back to the Valley. The group is called: Grassroots Public Radio RGV.“It is outrageous to me that one of the most economically distressed areas in the United States - and yes, the border is the United States, contrary to what many folks’ believe - does not have a loca...
2021-04-1703 min
Rio Grande Guardian's PodcastTeach for America-RGV hosts webinar on how to emerge stronger post-COVID-19EDINBURG, Texas - If Rio Grande Valley parents cannot pay their light bill, how are their children going to be able to access the Internet to do the remote learning expected of them?This was one of the questions posed by Dr. Rodney H. Rodriguez, senior director for RGV Focus, during a recent webinar hosted by Teach for America-Rio Grande Valley.The webinar was titled, “How can education and workforce development lead to a strong RGV post-COVID-19?” One of the topics that came up was the digital divide. Rodriguez said his nonprofit has appli...
2020-11-2158 min
South Texas Border Sports Podcast with Rey SilvaHouston Texans fan club in the RGV... Sign Me UP!In the NFL the Dallas Cowboys are known as America's Team... but in the state of Texas, the Houston Texans are in the in-state rival. In the Rio Grande Valley where it is also known to be Cowboy country, but the Texans fan base in the RGV has something to say about that. Michael Garza of the leaders of the Houston Texans fan club in the Rio Grande Valley joins the podcast on how the popularity has risen for the Texans in the RGV and how they are making it grow.
This episode was r...
2020-10-0542 min
Thought About Food PodcastFood Insecurity in the Pandemic with Food Bank RGVIn this second episode I talk with Stuart Haniff from the Food Bank of the Rio Grande Valley about food insecurity during the pandemic and its economic fallout. We talk about the way food security is manifesting itself right now by looking at this local context, as well as some ways you can help directly.
Show Notes
Follow us on Twitter at @FoodThoughtPod, and you can drop us a line at ThoughtAboutFood on Gmail. Consider leaving us a review wherever you found us!
Stuart Haniff is the director of the Food Bank of the Rio Grande V...
2020-09-0724 min
Rio Grande Guardian's PodcastRGV Focus: Valley is making good progress in educationHARLINGEN, RGV Focus, a collective impact initiative of Educate Texas, has unveiled its 2019 annual report and scorecard.As with last year’s report, the title is “Contigo,” which is Spanish for “With You.”The scorecard tracks the key metrics RGV Focus has identified to be important in understanding education in the Rio Grande Valley. It also tracks how the Valley scores in comparison to those for the state of Texas. “In this year’s annual report you will see that Rio Grande Valley students now match or out-perform their Texas peers in eight out of 12 key i...
2020-06-0311 min
Rio Grande Guardian's PodcastPresident of Aspen Institute to speak at Teach for America-RGV galaMCALLEN, Texas - Dan Porterfield, the president and CEO of the Aspen Institute, will give the keynote speech at Teach For America-RGV’s Honor Roll Gala.The gala takes place at the McAllen Convention Center on Friday, Feb. 7, 2020, starting at 6:30 p.m. It will be Porterfield’s first visit to the Rio Grande Valley. Click here to purchase a ticket.Teach For America-RGV, a nonprofit that has been in the Valley for 29 years, is hoping to $150,000 from the gala. The proceeds will allow the group to grow its teaching and leadership force. “We invite y...
2020-02-0535 min
Rio Grande Guardian's PodcastPodcast: RGV health summit to look at gaps in access to secondary careWESLACO, RGV - Gaps in access to secondary healthcare in the Rio Grande Valley will be the focus at RGV Equal Voice Network’s Rio Grande Valley Health Summit.The summit takes place at Knapp Conference Center in Weslaco on Dec. 12.To prepare for the summit, the RGV Equal Voice Network’s health working group conducted a survey of Federally Qualified Health Centers and other safety net clinics in the Valley. These surveys interacted with 603 patients. The group also conducted 13 focus groups throughout the Valley, conducted in English and Spanish. The information collected forms the basi...
2019-12-0923 min
Rio Grande Guardian's PodcastPodcast: Canales: RGV cities should form coalition for TXDOT border master planEDINBURG, RGV - The chairman of the Texas House Committee on Transportation says cities in the Rio Grande Valley should form a coalition to ensure their voices are heard as a new border transportation masterplan is being developed.State Rep. Terry Canales of Edinburg made the suggestion during a wide-ranging interview with the Rio Grande Guardian.TxDOT, in collaboration and partnership with the Border Trade Advisory Committee, is working with U.S. and Mexican agencies and stakeholders to develop the Border Transportation Master Plan (BTMP). The master plan will identify the cross-border challenges o...
2019-12-0857 min
Hannah and Erik Go BirdingGreen Jays, Gray Hawks, and more at the Rio Grande Valley Birding FestivalAnother year, another Rio Grande Valley Birding Festival in the books! Hannah and Erik had an awesome time birding the RGV, seeing friends, and chasing birds. The festival field trips took them all over the valley from Falcon State Park to South Padre Island.The RGV is such an incredibly special part of the United States, it’s the only place to see Green Jays, Great Kiskadees, Plain Chachalcas, and so much more. Listen in to find out what hotspots you shouldn’t miss (and where to eat) when you visit the RGV.Thank you to the...
2019-11-211h 10
Rio Grande Guardian's PodcastPodcast: RGV outpacing State of Texas for sales tax revenue collectionsMCALLEN, RGV - Matt Ruszczak, executive director of Rio South Texas Economic Council, fears he is beginning to sound like a broken record because the sales tax revenue reports he has given for the past few months all sound the same.The good thing, though, is that the message he is delivering is always positive - the Rio Grande Valley is outperforming the state of Texas as a whole when it comes to economic activity.“I am in danger of sounding like a broken record, which is a good problem to have because the report is...
2019-11-0511 min
Rio Grande Guardian's PodcastExplore RGV unveils interactive Birding Adventure GuideWESLACO, RGV - An interactive map has been created as part of the Explore RGV project highlighting 44 sites where birders can see exotic and rare birds in the Rio Grande Valley.The new “Adventure Guide” has been launched to coincide with the Rio Grande Valley Birding Festival that takes place in Harlingen, Nov. 6-10.The announcement came at a board meeting of the Lower Rio Grande Valley Development Council. LRGVDC oversees Explore RGV. The project was kick-started last year with a $350,000 grant from the U.S. Economic Development Administration. Its website and mobile app has arou...
2019-10-0511 min