BIG DREAM:...The Rio Grande Valley As One...

 

By EDUARDO PAZ-MARTINEZ

EDINBURG, Texas | Well, it's something many have long-suggested - Rio Grande Valley political leaders bonding for the common good. They did it here. Even some tough, inhumane Republican dude in a wheelchair showed-up. Came down all the way from Austin for a photo op (see it above) he likely thought would tell people all of these mayors and county judges are with him.

Hope not.

The Rio Grande Valley is a slice of geography as unique as the Middle East's Gaza Strip, or Mexico's Yucatan. It lives and breathes on its own, far from state government, for decades ignored by Texans elsewhere, like in the Legislature.

This explainer from Harlingen Mayor Norma Sepulveda: [ I had the honor and privilege of sharing the stage with Edinburg Mayor Ramiro Garza, Jr. in delivering the welcome at our very first-ever RGV Economic Summit. 

This historic event brought together 47 mayors representing their respective cities throughout Cameron, Hidalgo, Willacy and Starr County with a common purpose - to advance inclusive and sustainable economic growth for South Texas.

This is a pivotal moment for the RGV as we come together as "One Region, One Voice!" ]

Good luck with that One Voice thing, however. Sharing, especially credit, is anathema to politicians. Still, you hope that even some progress on the unity front can come of this.

We say the Rio Grande Valley would be a state powerhouse if it ever became one monster city, or if it even effected half of what this group wishes for the region.

Free Advice: Keep Republican Gov. Greg Abbott out of it.

He's a transitory figure in the Big Scheme of our region. RGV leaders are doing for their communities and their residents.

Abbott is not from here.

Yes, he's governor, but he'll care only so long as it pushes him or his divisive agenda...

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[EDITOR'S NOTE:...We noticed Mayor Sepulveda did not mention Abbott's presence at this summit. Good for her!...]