El Periódico USA English April 17 2024

WHAT IS DYSPRAXIA?

Wednesday, April 17, 2024

GOVERNOR CELEBRATES GROUNDBREAKING OF TRAINING HUB

Governor Greg Abbott today celebrated the groundbreaking of Texas A&M University’s South Texas Workforce Development Project advanced manufacturing training facility near the Port of Brownsville and lauded the state’s efforts to bring highquality training programs to hardworking Texans. Organized by the Texas A&M Engineering Extension Service, the center will provide training to Texans in the Rio Grande Valley for in-demand jobs, while stimulating advancements in manufacturing through research and initiatives.

“This new state-of-the-art facility here at the Port of Brownsville will train Texans to lead the workforce of tomorrow,” said Governor Abbott. “Students here will be prepared for in-demand jobs and receive hands-on instruction on real-world projects that are often encountered by workers on the job. They will get the experience and training they need to excel in cutting-edge manufacturing jobs here in the Rio Grande Valley and throughout Texas. Texas is the economic engine of America, where workers know that they live in a state where they can gain the skills necessary to help build the future. I

am proud to be here today to celebrate the new South Texas Workforce Development Project as we continue to build an even bigger, better Texas.” Speaking to business and education leaders, Governor Abbott highlighted the Rio Grande Valley as the epicenter of economic growth and innovation in Texas, where the next generation of manufacturing leaders will be trained. The Governor also touted Texas’ booming economy, pointing to the state’s unmatched business-friendly climate and reasonable regulations that ensure “Made in Texas” remains a powerful global brand. Additionally, Governor Abbott lauded the state’s robust manufacturing industry, mentioning that Texas is the top exporting state for 12 consecutive years and the eighth largest economy in the world an achievement that would not be possible without Texas’ highly skilled and diverse workforce. The Governor was joined at the groundbreaking ceremony by The Texas A&M University System Chancellor John Sharp, Board of Regents member Mike Hernandez III, and Vice Chairman Robert L. Albritton; Brownsville Navigation District Board of Commissioners Chairman Esteban “Steve” Guerra; and former State Representative Eddie Lucio III.

Education

In the span of five years, will provide all RGV students with a tuition-free education.

Local Events

Pharr EDC to Host “The Hub Job Fair”

Providing new career opportunities to the community.

STC’s Valley Promise – Making College Affordable For All Page 5 Page 4

Brownsville, TX

UTRGV Theater Alumna Opens Her Own Acting Studio STC Receives Military Friendly ‘Gold’ Award For Exceptional Support To Veterans

RIO GRANDE VALLEY, TEXAS– Maria Alvarado, a UTRGV theater performance graduate from Edinburg and now a local business owner, grew up with a passion for acting.

It was an out of the ordinary choice in her family. Most had a background in business and were entrepreneurs. Fine arts weren’t part of the success equation.

“But I was the entertainment for my family gatherings since I was probably 3 years old,” she said. “Throughout middle school and high school, I enjoyed dancing. My last semester of senior year, they needed backup dancers for the school’s musical; I signed up and I loved it.”

She remembers asking her mother if the family had any singers, performers or musicians. The response was that everyone was focused on working, not so much on “hobbies.”

Her mother suggested that she go into nursing. But Alvarado had one response: “I don’t like it.”

She followed her instincts, instead, and continued with performing arts. She is grateful that her family supported her decision as she was creating her career path, different from their own path as it was.

BRIGHT LIGHTS ON A BIG STAGE

Alvarado grew up in Mexico and moved to the United States when she was 12. She knew she would go to college, she said, but wasn’t sure what her major would be – until she discovered the options available to her during her college journey at UTRGV.

“From week one, I discovered the Latino Theatre Initiatives (LTI), a student organization that put plays together. And not only to the university, but they had travel shows,” she said.

LTI managed to attend theater festivals, and traveled to New Orleans, New York, San Diego and across Texas.

“I got opportunities to direct, not just act. I really love acting, especially acting on stage,” she said with a smile. “There’s nothing like it. Being there, live, all the emotions are live. You have an entire audience. But at the same time, you’re trying to just live in the moment.”

She graduated UTRGV in 2017 with a Bachelor of Arts in Theatre and a concentration in Performance.

Post-graduation, she worked with other companies to hold summer acting camps and be part of productions. That’s when she realized she wanted to branch out on her own.

She drew from her UTRGV experiences of running her own productions and fundraising for an organization she was part of. It all prepared her to muster the courage to start her own business.

In 2019, she opened her own acting studio, MDA Acting in Edinburg.

“I wanted to provide the knowledge and information that I didn’t have when I started acting when I was younger,” she said. “I want to provide that career path for people who want to take acting seriously. I want to give them the right steps to get there.”

South Texas College has become one of only six institutions across Texas to receive a Military Friendly School Gold Award and Military Friendly Spouse School recognition for the 2023-2024 school year.

STC has been recognized for its commitment, effort and success in creating opportunities for the military community on all its campuses, and was recognized recently by VIQTORY, a service-disabled, veteran-owned small business, which publishes the annual Military Friendly rating for schools nationwide.

Javier Cardenas, Veterans Affairs outreach official at STC, highlights the unique support veterans receive at our institution. STC sets the standard for veteran services, constantly striving to exceed expectations and provide top-quality education and support.

STC earned the “Gold” distinction for exceeding in areas such as academic policies and compliance, admissions and orientation, culture and commitment, financial aid and assistance, graduation and career and military student support and retention.

The Gold and Military Friendly Spouse Awards expand across STC’s Pecan, Mid-Valley and Starr County campuses, each with a Student Veterans Affairs Office to service the more than 800 veterans, veteran spouses and dependents attending STC.

STC’s Office of Student Veterans Affairs employees are certified by the U.S. Veterans Affairs Department, to assist veteran students and their families in

completing the documents necessary to receive benefits such as the GI Bill and Hazelwood Act. “This is a testament to the commitment of STC to our veterans that we provide the best services possible and that we are centralized place for services because not all schools have that,” said Juan Miguel Galvan, director of Student Financial Services and who oversees the Office of Student Veterans Affairs. “STC is proud of its role, providing the assistance veterans need so that we can certify their educational benefits and they can continue their education. We have a whole department dedicated to veterans and their dependents.

This should give them the confidence to understand that we will do our best to help them get the educational benefits that they deserve.” U.S. Army Sgt. 1st Class Nestor Rios is currently an active-duty service member as well as an STC student studying Business Administration who says the Veterans Affairs Office at South Texas College has streamlined and supported his opportunity to maximize Veteran specific courses.

“Their staff navigated the complexities of accessing and processing educational benefits which allowed me to solely focus on my academics,” Rios said. “I encourage every veteran to take advantage of their personalized assistance and guidance.” In addition to benefits and enrollment assistance, STC’s Veterans Affairs also offers safe havens known as the “Foxhole,” a room dedicated to veterans, spouses and their dependents, that is equipped with comfortable seating, computers, televisions and printers. There is a “Foxhole” available at the Pecan, Mid-Valley and Starr County campuses. www.english.elperiodicousa.com

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An official proclamation declaring April 7-13, 2024 as National Library Week was approved by Mayor Ambrosio Hernandez, M.D., and the Pharr City Commission.

City of Pharr Proclaims April 7-13, 2024 as National Library Week

The City of Pharr recognizes that libraries play a critical role in the economic vitality of communities by providing internet and

Edinburg Named Finalist In 2024 All-America City Award

Edinburg, TX- The City of Edinburg has been named one of the twenty finalists for the prestigious 2024 All-America City Award by the National Civic League. This recognition highlights Edinburg’s dedication to strengthening democracy through local action and innovation.

“Being named a finalist is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our residents, community leaders, and organizations. Together, we have implemented innovative initiatives that have transformed our city and empowered our citizens,” Mayor Ramiro Garza Jr. said. “We are eagerly working towards securing our fourth title, and we are determined to showcase the spirit that

technology access, literacy skills, and support for job seekers, small businesses, and entrepreneurs, as well as many other community benefits and services.

makes Edinburg truly exceptional.”

For 75 years, the All-America City Award has honored communities across the nation for their civic innovation and commitment to building strong, resilient communities. The finalists were selected after a rigorous review process, evaluating criteria such as shared vision, civic engagement, inclusiveness and equity, collaboration, innovation, and impact.

Doug Linkhart, President of the National Civic League, emphasized the importance of local initiatives in strengthening democracy, stating, “We can and must strengthen our democracy so that it is resilient in the face of challenges and better serves all Americans. This year’s finalists aren’t waiting for federal action. They are innovating and acting locally to improve their communities for anyone who calls them home.”

Edinburg joins a distinguished group of finalist communities from across the United States, ranging in size from 3,000 residents to over 700,000. The finalists will compete for the title of All-America City in June in Denver, Colorado, where they will showcase their community-driven efforts and innovative

Additionally, libraries are accessible and inclusive places that promote a sense of local connection, advancing understanding, civic engagement, and shared community goals. Pharr Library Director Adolfo Garcia and his staff accepted the proclamation, which also recognizes librarians and library workers.

“Thank you, Mayor and Commissioners, for your support of our Pharr Memorial Library and the many services we provide our Pharr residents throughout the year,” said Garcia. “We are proud of our work and thank our patrons for their support,” he added.

In celebration, the Pharr Memorial Library will be hosting several events throughout the week.

solutions.

Regardless of the outcome, being named a finalist is a testament to Edinburg’s commitment to building a stronger, more resilient community for all. The City of Edinburg has already earned the title of All-America City in 1968, 1995, and 2000.

Finalist Cities Include:

Boulder, CO

Danville, VA

Edinburg, TX

Henderson, KY

High Point, NC

Jacksonville, NC

La Marque, TX

Lakewood, CO

Lexington, KY

Monroe County, IN

Monrovia, CA

New Orleans, LA

Newport News, VA

Oakland, CA

Punta Gorda, FL

Roanoke, VA

Saginaw, TX

Seattle, WA

Watkinsville, GA

Wilton Manors, FL

Mission Resident Sent To Prison For Hauling 32 People In Horse Trailer

A 34-year-old Mission resident has been sentenced following his conviction for transportation of undocumented aliens, announced U.S. Attorney Alamdar S. Hamdani.

Simon Garcia III pleaded guilty Dec. 15, 2023.

U.S. District Judge Nelva Gonzales Ramos has now ordered Garcia to serve 24 months in federal prison followed by two years of supervised release. At the hearing, the court heard additional evidence regarding the circumstances of the crime such as the heat and cramped conditions. In handing down the sentence, the court noted the number of people transported in the horse trailer.

On Sept. 15, 2023, Garcia approached the Falfurrias Border Patrol (BP) checkpoint driving a black Dodge Ram 3500 truck with an attached horse trailer and four horses. A K-9 alerted to the vehicle and authorities referred him to secondary inspection.

Upon further investigation, law enforcement discovered 32 people hidden within a storage compartment inside the trailer. All were illegally present in the United States and cramped into a small area.

After refusing to get inside the trailer, one person recalled that he was forced into the trailer. Some described how they crossed into the United States and were held at stash houses before masked individuals told them to get into the horse trailer, not move and be quiet. Another person said he was sweating excessively, had a hard time breathing, had no way to escape and feared for his life.

Garcia will remain in custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.

Homeland Security Investigations and BP conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Liesel Roscher prosecuted the case.

STC’s Valley Promise – Making College Affordable For All

South Texas College is making a promise to help more students in the Rio Grande Valley become college graduates with the historic announcement of The Valley Promise program, or La Promesa del Valle, which in the span of five years, will provide all RGV students with a tuition-free education.

The Valley Promise is a last-dollar scholarship that covers tuition and fees after financial aid awards and other scholarships are applied. This initiative will help more students graduate without debt and ready to enter the workforce into high-demand, high-paying jobs through tuition-free education.

“Nuestra promesa va a cambiar la region. Our Valley Promise is going to change the region,” said STC President Ricardo J. Solis, Ph.D. “This initiative is a game changer for students and families in the communities we serve. It’s going to make education more accessible, breakdown barriers and transform generations. Thanks to our supporters and partners in education, we are bringing future prosperity to our region.”

At least $1 million has been invested into creating The Valley Promise with funding and support from the Greater Texas Foundation, Ascendium, Rio-South Texas Education and Community Development Foundation, Educate Texas and Economic Mobility Systems.

Within the program’s first year, The Valley Promise will offer eligible graduating high school seniors at participating high schools in Hidalgo and Starr counties, a tuition-free scholarship, including dedicated staff to help them navigate and succeed throughout their

said Rodriguez. “We are grateful to our partners who believe in The Valley Promise and have allowed us to begin this program, and together, with the support of our STC Foundation, we will increase the funding we need to expand and grow this initiative to provide free education to all Rio Grande Valley students.”

Economic Mobility Systems (EMS) Executive Director Eric Ban, Ph.D., said his organization is empowering students and colleges like STC to continue making college affordable and accessible to all.

Meet Renowned Author Julieta Corpus at McAllen Public Library

Calling all book lovers and literary enthusiasts! Join us for the final installment of our three-part Author Talk series, where we celebrate the rich talent of local authors from the Rio Grande Valley.

college journey.

“The Valley Promise is something we have been working toward for a couple of years now and to see it all come to fruition, is surreal,” said STC Vice President of Student Affairs and Enrollment Management Matthew Hebbard. “Our goal is always success, and we can only do that by making college accessible for all. Anyone can be a college student, and The Valley Promise will help make that a reality. So many students and their families will benefit from this initiative and will kickstart a lifetime of success.”

According to statistics set forth by the Lumina Foundation, an independent, private foundation that is committed to making opportunities for learning beyond high school available to all, only 19% of Valley residents between the ages of 25 and 64 hold at least an associate degree, compared to 38% for Texas and 42% nationally.

STC, with The Valley Promise, aims to increase this number with its access to education, diverse pathways such as academic and technical education and more than 130 degree and certificate options.

STC Vice President of Institutional Advancement and Economic Development Rodney Rodriguez, Ph.D., who also leads STC’s Foundation efforts said The Valley Promise could not have been initiated without the support of STC’s local and statewide partners in education who also understand that a well-educated workforce is key to the Valley’s future prosperity.

“We are all committed to ending poverty, strengthening our economy and meeting the workforce demands of the region,”

“We are proud to partner with STC as they continue to provide innovative programming and workforce development in their region and throughout the state,” said Ban. “The proven model and strategies Anabel Romero-Juarez’s team at EMS has developed across many regions in Texas, serves as the catalyst for The Valley Promise, which will make college and college completion accessible to all.”

Juarez, Ed.D. is the EMS director of Regional Talent Networks of Student Success and Workforce.

To be eligible for The Valley Promise, seniors must complete and submit the Promise Pledge by May 15, graduate from a participating Promise high school in Hidalgo or Starr County, be a Texas Resident with residency in the Upper Valley and be need-based as determined by the U.S. Department of Education after completing a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or Texas Application for State Financial Aid (TASFA), must enroll at STC for a minimum of 12 credit hours and pursue a certificate or degree.

Victor De Luna, an STC Psychology student and College Connections Call Center work study and tour guide said the one question he gets weekly while leading campus tours with prospective students is, “How am I going to pay for college?”

“Paying for college is something everyone worries about and for many, it stops them from either enrolling or completing their education, but with The Valley Promise, students will no longer have to worry about how they’re going to pay for classes,” said De Luna. “This is going to allow students to continue growing…STC is the place where we learn we can achieve anything, and The Valley Promise will allow more of us to get a degree. I’m excited for the moment I can start telling students about this during my tours and really seeing firsthand how this is going to change lives.”

For our grand finale, we are thrilled to welcome the esteemed author, Julieta Corpus. She will be taking the stage to share insights into her latest published work: “Of Love and Departures/De Amor Y Despedidas”.

This promises to be an evening filled with captivating stories, engaging discussions, and a chance to get up close and personal with one of the Valley’s most esteemed writers.

The event will take place at the McAllen Public Library (4001 N 23rd St) on April 10th from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

Don’t miss this opportunity to connect with Julieta Corpus and gain valuable insights into her creative process, inspirations, and the stories behind her remarkable writings.

Admission is free, and all are welcome to attend. So, mark your calendars, spread the word, and join us for an unforgettable evening celebrating literature and local talent at McAllen Public Library!

For more information, please contact McAllen Public Library at (956) 681-3000 or visit our website.

Pharr EDC to Host “The Hub Job Fair”

Pharr, Texas – The Pharr EDC in collaboration with Workforce Solutions, The Greater Pharr Chamber of Commerce, and the Pharr EDC Foundation will be hosting “The Hub Job Fair” providing new career opportunities to the community.

The job fair will take place on Thursday, April 11, 2024, from 9:00 am – 12:30 pm at the Pepe Salinas Civic Center (1011 W. Kelly Ave.) in Pharr. FREE admission and resources.

“Join us at ‘The Hub Job Fair’ where employers and motivated job seekers will be brought together to find a match,” said Victor Perez, Pharr EDC President/CEO. “Get a chance to meet hiring managers, discover diverse industries, and land your dream job,” he added.

Job seekers will have access to over 30 leading companies, on-site interviews, and the opportunity to explore different careers and industries. Employers interested in participating can still reserve a spot by contacting Robert Mora at (956) 467-9814.

The Pharr EDC is also offering a Resume Writing and Interview Skills Workshop for anyone interested in attending the day before the job fair.

The writing workshop will take place on Wednesday, April 10, 2024, at 9 am at the Pepe Salinas Civic Center at the Pepe Salinas Civic Center (1011 W. Kelly Ave.) in Pharr. Workshop attendees will get a registration Fast-Pass for The Hub Job Fair.

Sowing Success: Cultivating Tomorrow’s Leaders with Mission CISD

McAllen, TX – The International Museum of Art & Science (IMAS) is proud to announce its upcoming student exhibition, “Mission CISD: Growing Next Generation of F.A.R.M.E.R.S.”, running from April 20 to May 19, 2024. This exhibition is made possible, in part, by a grant from Texas Women for the Arts, a program of the Texas Cultural Trust.

Mission CISD is dedicated to cultivating the next generation of F.A.R.M.E.R.S. (Farmers, Agriculturists, Ranchers, Machinists, Engineers, Researchers, and Suppliers). Their comprehensive program, offered to grades K-12, focuses on educating students about food cultivation and emphasizing the importance of proper nutrition. In a region facing numerous food-related challenges, this initiative aims to combat food insecurity and related health issues through education and engagement.

The program strives for inclusivity by encouraging participation from all interested students, with a particular emphasis on including girls and students with disabilities who have traditionally been underrepresented in agricultural studies and careers.

By introducing elementary to high school students to careers in agricultural science, the program aims to promote entrepreneurial spirit and leadership qualities. The anticipated outcome is a generation of students who understand the significance of agriculture, community service, and the integration of technology in these fields.

In this exhibition, visitors will be able to hear firsthand stories from high school level F.A.R.M.E.R.S. students about the benefits of the program, from making new friendships to finding new passions. Many are following the footsteps of their family members or learning that the program could help bridge the gender gap in STEM. Some have enjoyed being able to donate the fruits of their labor to their local food bank, feeding seniors, and even their fellow classmates. Some are simply enjoying the peace and beauty that can be found in a garden, from the fruits and blooms to the bugs and animals. Alexis Vasquez, Veterans Memorial High School says, “In our garden we are not only growing vegetables, we are also growing as individuals.”

Join us at IMAS as we celebrate the accomplishments of these young visionaries and explore the future of agriculture in our community. For more information about the exhibition and IMAS, please visit https://theimasonline. org/mission-cisd-farmers/

What is dyspraxia?

Dyspraxia, also known as developmental coordination disorder (DCD), is a chronic condition that begins in childhood that causes difficulties with motor (movement) skills and coordination.

Dyspraxia can cause a wide range of issues with movement and coordination. Some of these may be noticeable at an early age, while others may only become obvious as your child gets older. Dyspraxia can affect your child’s coordination skills, which can make riding a bicycle or playing sports difficult. It can also affect their fine motor skills, such as writing or fastening buttons.

Dyspraxia in adults

When it’s not used in the context of childhood developmental coordination disorder, the term “dyspraxia” has a broader meaning.

Healthcare providers may also use the

term “dyspraxia” to describe movement difficulties that happen later in life because of damage to your brain, such as from a stroke or brain injury. Providers may refer to this as acquired dyspraxia.

What is the difference between dyspraxia and apraxia?

Healthcare providers sometimes use the terms “apraxia” and “dyspraxia” interchangeably. However, apraxia is often more severe than dyspraxia. Apraxia means that you completely lose the ability to do something even though you understand the command and have a willingness to perform the movement. Dyspraxia means that you partially lose the ability to do something with accuracy.

Apraxia also has several different subtypes, including childhood apraxia of speech, limb-kinetic apraxia (the inability to make precise movements with your fin-

ger, arm or leg) and constructional apraxia (the inability to draw or copy simple diagrams or to construct simple figures).

Who does dyspraxia affect?

The first signs of dyspraxia (developmental coordination disorder) begin in childhood during the developmental period. As it’s a chronic condition, dyspraxia can persist into adulthood as well.

Dyspraxia more commonly affects men and people assigned male at birth than women and people assigned female at birth.

Your child may be more likely to have dyspraxia if:

• They were born prematurely before the 37th week of pregnancy, especially if they were born before the 32nd week of pregnancy.

• They were born with a very low birth weight (less than 4 pounds).

• They have a family history of developmental coordination disorder.

How common is dyspraxia?

Dyspraxia (developmental coordination disorder) is relatively common. It affects approximately 6% of school-aged children.

Signs of dyspraxia in babies and toddlers

Delays in reaching expected developmental milestones can be an early sign of dyspraxia in babies and toddlers. For example, your child may take longer than expected to roll over, sit, crawl, or walk.

You may also notice that your child:

• Has difficulty playing with toys that involve good coordination, such as stacking cups.

• Has some difficulty learning to eat with spoons and forks.

Signs of dyspraxia in older children

• Difficulty with walking up and down stairs.

• Difficulty with balance — they may bump into objects, fall frequently or seem clumsy.

• Difficulty with sports and activities, such as riding a bike, jumping, catching, throwing, or kicking a ball. They may avoid participating in activities because of their lack of coordination.

• Difficulty with writing, drawing/coloring, and using scissors compared to other children their age.

• Difficulty getting dressed, fastening buttons, brushing their teeth, and tying shoelaces.

• Restlessness — they may swing or move their arms and legs frequently.

Women’s Golf in 17th After First Day of Bobcat Desert Classic

UTRGV Vaqueros women’s golf team is 17th after day one at the Bobcat Desert Classic at The Golf Club of Estrella.

The Vaqueros posted a first round

team score of 315 as they are nine strokes back of Utah Valley for 16th. Grand Canyon holds a two-shot lead after the first round after posting a 281.

Freshman Camila Herrera led the way for the Vaqueros as she posted a first round of 77 and is tied for 73rd. Freshman Natalia Rodriguez senior Mercedes Vega each turned in a first round 79 as they are tied for 83rd.

Freshman Preston Saiz and junior Catherine Flores are tied for 90th with a first round 80. Seattle U’s Rivekka Jumagulova holds the first round lead with a six-under 66.

The Vaqueros will be back on the course for round on Tuesday with the first groups teeing off at 10 a.m.

Microscape Quilt Exhibit Captures Microscopic Wonders

McAllen, TX – The International Museum of Art & Science (IMAS) is proud to announce the upcoming exhibition, Microscape, presented in collaboration with the Studio Art Quilts Associates (SAQA) on May 11. This global exhibition showcases the intricate and captivating world of microscopic and magnified views through the medium of art quilts. Microscape is supported in part by a grant from the Texas Commission on the Arts.

Microscopes, magnifying glasses, and virtual imaging techniques have unveiled a universe of remarkable beauty and complexity beyond the naked eye’s perception. Microscape delves into this hidden realm, inviting viewers to explore the minutiae of our known world, from the smallest particles to the tiniest organisms and natural details. Through the lens of art quilts, artists participating in this exhibition capture the essence of these microscopic wonders or magnify larger objects to reveal their smallest intricacies.

“Microscape presents viewers with an intersection of art and science and is an observation of the natural world experienced through the eyes of the SAQA artists featured in this exhibition,” states IMAS Curator, Marcelo Ramirez Garcia Rojas. “As an art and science museum, IMAS wants visitors to think about the relationship between the two fields of study and how artists and scientists perceive the natural world. Utilizing an unconventional

medium like the art quilt to present these natural phenomena is a unique approach to understanding the importance of the minute details of our environment.”

SAQA, a nonprofit organization, is dedicated to promoting the art quilt medium. With a vision for the art quilt to be universally respected as fine art, SAQA has fostered a vibrant community of over 4,000 artists, curators, collectors, and art professionals spanning the globe for the past three decades.

Microscape offers a unique opportunity to witness the convergence of art and science, artists translate the invisible and the overlooked into tangible expressions of creativity. Through their innovative use of textiles and quilting techniques, these artists redefine traditional notions of scale and perspective, inviting audiences to contemplate the beauty and complexity inherent in the microcosm.

Microscape will be on display at the International Museum of Art & Science from May 11 – August 25, 2024. Visitors are invited to immerse themselves in the enchanting world of microscopic wonders and discover the artistry embedded within the fabric of our existence. A special IMAS Member preview reception will be held on Thursday, May 9, from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. and is free for members, $10 for member guests. More information at theimasonline.org/ microscape.

Experience the Vibrancy of Holi: A Festival of Colors, Love, and Spring

Join us for an exhilarating celebration of Holi, the joyous Hindu festival that epitomizes the essence of colors, love, and the arrival of spring. Embracing the spirit of togetherness and merriment, we cordially invite you to partake in this cultural extravaganza on April 6, 2024, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Allen and William Arnold City/School Park, nestled at 615 W. El Dora Road, Pharr.

Holi holds profound significance in Hindu tradition, symbolizing the eternal bond of love between the divine Radha and Krishna. Moreover, it commemorates the victory of good over evil, echoing the triumph of Vishnu as Narasimha over Hiranyakashipu.

Dressed in radiant white attire, immerse yourself in the festivities as we

provide an array of delectable food and vibrant color powders. Let the rhythm of traditional music envelop you as you revel in the company of family and friends.

As a testament to our commitment to community engagement, this event is open to all, with free entry for everyone. In collaboration with esteemed partners including GSRGV, The Greater Pharr Chamber of Commerce, IARGV, and the City of Pharr, we aim to create an unforgettable experience filled with joy, harmony, and cultural enrichment.

Come, be a part of this kaleidoscopic celebration, where every splash of color echoes the spirit of unity and joy. Let’s paint the town with love, laughter, and the vibrant hues of Holi!