On The Border with George Altgelt

In this comprehensive episode of “On the Border” George Altgelt and Carlos Guerra sit down with candidate for District 5, Jose Ovando, and various pressing issues faced by Laredo are meticulously unpacked. The podcast covers a range of topics including the alarming water contamination crisis, inadequate infrastructure, local political corruption, and the socio-economic impact on local businesses. In their discussions, the hosts address the urgent need for ethical governance, systemic reforms, and community engagement. The episode features insights from Jose Ovando as he discusses the city council pay raises, public health concerns, and the crucial role of civic responsibilities. Through personal anecdotes and community stories, the episode underscores how integrity, transparency, and proactive participation can drive meaningful change in Laredo.

(00:00) Introduction and Initial Concerns

(00:45) Meet the Hosts and Guest Introduction

(01:25) Candidate's Motivation and City Issues

(02:04) Water Crisis and Public Trust

(03:58) Integrity and Accountability in Leadership

(05:42) City Management and Infrastructure Challenges

(21:48) Economic Development and City Reputation

(32:13) Community and Law Enforcement

(39:10) Discussing Influential Books

(39:33) Political Ethics and Advocacy

(41:14) Council Member Allowances Debate

(48:13) Community Leadership and Bullying Issues

(50:27) Campaign Funding and Integrity

(59:13) Water Crisis and Infrastructure Concerns

(01:03:10) Closing Thoughts and Personal Stories

This episode of 'On the Border' features Lizzie Newsome, a dedicated candidate for the Laredo College Board of Trustees, Position 5. Lizzie shares her deep-rooted connections to Laredo and her passion for public service, stemming from her 27-year career in education. The discussion covers a wide array of topics including mental health and substance abuse support, enhancing educational programs, campus revitalization, faculty morale, and budget priorities. Lizzie emphasizes the need for comprehensive support systems, improved certifications in high-demand fields, competitive faculty benefits, and proper staffing to handle increased student enrollment. With personal anecdotes and reflections on balancing career and family life, Lizzie's narrative reveals her dedication to integrity, compassionate leadership, and community-centric decision-making, aiming to bring new energy and innovation to Laredo College.

(00:00) Introduction and Opening Remarks

(00:39) Meet the Co-Host: Carlos Guerra

(01:03) Interview with Lizzie Newsome

(01:45) Lizzie's Background and Motivation

(05:34) Challenges in Education and Substance Abuse

(08:36) Innovative Programs and Future Vision

(12:10) Revitalizing Laredo College

(21:24) Addressing Faculty and Staff Concerns

(28:30) Reinvigorating Student Engagement

(29:33) Challenges in College Recruitment

(33:15) Personal Background and Values

(42:55) Educational Journey and Career

(47:09) Vision for the Future

(56:45) Final Thoughts and Call to Action

From E. coli in the water to council pay raises—get the uncensored truth. Join George Altgelt and Carlos Guerra in their conversation with Councilmember for District 6 Dr. Tyler King as they unravel the complexities of Laredo's challenges in one of our most exciting podcast episodes yet! 🎧🔥 #ontheborder 

City Council Conversations: Balancing Business, Water, and Safety in Laredo

In this episode, Laredo City Council member for District 5, Ruben Gutierrez Jr., discusses his diverse background, including his role as a small business owner and former police officer, while addressing pressing local issues. He shares insights on his involvement in the establishment of the first Suicide Prevention Committee and suicide awareness initiatives, the development of the Vietnam Veterans Plaza, improving water infrastructure, and collaborating on the Loop 20 expansion project.

(00:48) Business and Public Service

(01:10) Motorcycle Escort Business

(02:20) Challenges and Risks in Escorting

(05:59) Police Career and Being Shot At

(11:29) Suicide Prevention Initiatives

(16:09) Vietnam Veterans Plaza Project

(21:07) Water Infrastructure and Future Planning

(22:06) Securing a Secondary Water Source for Laredo

(24:09) Controversies and Challenges with Legacy Water

(28:15) Mental Health and Wellness Facilities for First Responders

(33:25) Addressing Concerns About Council Member Salaries

(39:44) Collaborating with TxDOT on Loop 20 Expansion

(43:39) Ensuring Public Safety and Community Collaboration

(48:15) Concluding Remarks and Future Plans

In this episode of 'On the Border,' Host George Altgelt and Co-Host Carlos Guerra sit down with Jesse Perez, a candidate for Laredo's City Council District 5. Jesse shares his vision for Laredo, focusing on issues such as transportation, air quality, water resources, the need for an outer loop to decongest traffic and the controversial city council pension fund.

Music by Rick Cortez

(00:00) Introduction and Welcome

(00:31) The Importance of Local Political Discourse

(02:17) Introducing Jesse Perez

(02:46) Jesse Perez's Vision for Laredo

(03:22) Transportation Challenges and Solutions

(06:49) Air Quality and Public Health Concerns

(11:56) Water Source and Infrastructure Issues

(16:43 ) Jesse Perez's Commitment to the Community

(19:04) Closing Remarks and Contact Information

Join hosts George Altgelt and Carlos Guerra for the inaugural episode of 'On the Border.' In this episode, they sit down with Tricia Cortes, Executive Director of the Rio Grande International Studies Center, to discuss local Laredo issues that impact the border region. Topics include the history and mission of RISC, river water monitoring, environmental ordinances, and challenges like the future water security of Laredo. Get insights into air quality monitoring controversies, the role of public engagement, and forward-thinking environmental strategies.