As Trump slides in polls, his attacks on immigrants become increasingly delusional
By Andres Oppenheimer
It’s unclear whether Democratic candidate Kamala Harris’ current rise in the polls will last until the November elections, but one thing is obvious: her Republican rival, former president Donald Trump, is on the defensive, and showing signs of growing desperation.
A Morning Consult poll of 11,501 registered voters nationwide released Aug. 20 shows Harris winning by 4%, while a FiveThirtyEight average of national polls has her ahead by 2.8%. Most polls also show Harris either leading or in a statistical tie in key swing states.
As Trump slides in the polls, he is increasingly focusing his campaign on demonizing immigrants, much more than talking about the economy, or any other issue. That’s dangerous, because his fake data about immigration, amplified by Fox News and other right-wing media, may foster more racial discrimination and hate crimes.
It’s no coincidence that on Thursday, the day of Harris’ nomination acceptance speech at the Democratic National Convention, Trump chose to try to steal some of the limelight from her by going to the U.S. border with Mexico in Arizona.
In his speech there, flanked by relatives of
people reportedly killed by undocumented migrants, he repeated his false claims that there is a “deadly plague of migrant crime” that allegedly amounts to a “nation-wrecking invasion.” Such claims are in open contradiction with official data and virtually all serious studies.
Trump has recently been making increasingly outlandish claims about undocumented immigrants, calling them “animals,” “savage monsters,” and saying they are “poisoning the blood of our country,” a language akin to that used by Adolf Hitler in Nazi Germany.
President Biden countered Trump’s claims by stating in his DNC speech that “border encounters have dropped over 50%” as a result of an executive order he signed earlier this year. As for Trump’s narrative that migrants are causing a “deadly plague” of homicides, Biden said that violent crimes in the United States are at their lowest level in more than 50 years.
The respected fact-checking site Politifact has rated both of Biden’s statements mostly accurate. The flow of undocumented migrants reached a record high in 2023, but plummeted in 2024.
A study by Stanford University’s Institute for Economic Policy Research last year found that immigrants are 30% less likely to be jailed than U.S.-born Americans.
But I fear that Trump’s hate speech against immigrants will further escalate in coming weeks, in part because many of his other campaign rallying points are falling flat.
Trump’s claim that the U.S. economy is in shambles sounds increasingly odd at a time when the Wall Street stock market has reached a record high, inflation is coming down, and the United States is the fastest growing economy among major industrialized nations.
The Trump campaign and Republican groups have already spent $247 million in the first six months of this year on television and digital ads focused on illegal migration, according to AdImpact, a firm that monitors political advertising. That’s more than Republicans spent on ads about any other issue, including the economy.
Interestingly, more than 80% of these ads never aired in states that border Mexico, The Washington Post reported. Most of these ads ran in Ohio, Indiana and Montana, which have relatively small immigrant populations. Perhaps those who aired these ads know that people in border states would consider their content bizarre.
In a change of strategy, the Democrats have in recent days decided that it will be more effective for them to portray themselves as tough on migration than trying to debunk Trump’s lies about an alleged wave of “migrant crime.”
In her DNC speech, Harris presented herself as a former prosecutor who fought against foreign criminals, and blamed Trump for killing a bipartisan bill in Congress that contained strong measures to protect the border.
“Trump believes a border deal would hurt his campaign, so he ordered his allies in Congress to kill the deal,” she said.
The Democrats have probably concluded that, with 77% of Americans saying in a Pew Research poll that the border situation is a “crisis” or a “major problem,” there’s no time left before the elections to convince voters that Trump is peddling falsehoods about migrants.
While the Democrats’ strategy may be politically expedient, tacitly accepting Trump’s immigration lies comes with a cost: It will help normalize the former president’s claims that undocumented migrants are “criminals,” “animals,” and “savage monsters,” rather than hard-working people who pay taxes and do jobs that most Americans don’t want to do.
That will only help increase racial discrimination and hatred not just against undocumented migrants, but against all immigrants. It’s going to get increasingly ugly.
Sports
The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV) Vaqueros head women’s basketball coach Lane Lord announced on Wednesday that Ronnie Cantu, a former basketball standout at Mission Veterans Memorial, has joined the program as a graduate student coach.
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Local Events
IMAS Invites Community to Participate in 4th Annual Members’ Juried Art Show
The International Museum of Art & Science (IMAS) has announced its 4th Annual Members’ Juried Art Show (MJAS), an exhibition that offers local artists the chance to display their work in a professional museum setting.
RONNIE CANTU JOINS WOMEN’S BASKETBALL AS GRADUATE STUDENT COACH
OPINION
BY ANDRES OPPENHEIMER
This man predicted all recent presidential election winners. Will he be right this time?
Allan J. Lichtman, the American University historian who predicted the outcome of virtually all recent U.S. elections and became famous when he accurately forecast — against what pollsters were saying — that Donald Trump would win in 2016, was very cautious when I interviewed him about the 2024 presidential race.
But, while cautioning that he will issue his official prediction after Labor Day, he gave me a good hint of who has the best chances of winning the race between Democratic hopeful Kamala Harris and Trump. Lichtman, who has developed a system of 13 keys to predict elections — which he says is more accurate than polls — told me that “a lot would have to go wrong for the Democratic Party to lose.” Translation: as of now, Harris has the best chances of winning.
Lichtman’s prediction system consists of 13 questions that have to be answered each with a “true” or “false.” If the incumbent party gets a “false” in six of the 13 keys, it will lose the White House.
Since he started announcing his forecasts 20 years ago, he was right in nine of the last 10 elections. He says he was actually right in all 10 of them, because the 2000 election was atypical: his pick, Al Gore, won the popular vote, but the Supreme Court gave the election to George W. Bush.
Among Lichtman’s 13 keys are whether there is an incumbent president running for office, whether there is a strong third-party candidate and whether the economy is doing well.
“Right now the Democrats are down in only three keys” of the six that would be needed for them to lose the election, Lichtman told me. The Democrats are down in the “mandate” key, because they lost the House in the 2022 elections, in the “incumbency” key, because Joe Biden is no longer the candidate, and in the “charisma” key, because it’s too early to tell whether Harris is charismatic, he explained.
Won’t Trump win the “charisma” key, as horrible a human being as many of us think he is? I asked Licthman.
“He doesn’t fit the definition of the (charisma) key,” Lichtman responded, “The keys require that you be broadly appealing. You can’t just appeal to a narrow base like Trump.”
Lichtman says that he doesn’t pay attention to the polls because they are just a snapshot of the present, which is not useful to predict what will happen on Election Day.
In addition, just as pollsters underestimated the pro-Trump vote in 2016, they may now be under-estimating the pro-Democratic vote, he said.
“Pollsters say, ‘You know, our error margin is randomly plus or minus 3% approximately.’ But that’s pure statistical error,” he said. “People may lie. They may not have made up their mind yet. They may change their mind.”
As for surveys on donors’ campaign contributions, crowd sizes or debates, he told me, “Remember, based on conventional measures, Hillary Clinton should have won in 2016: She raised more money, had more ads, won all the debates, had a better organization. And, of course, she lost.”
Will Lichtman be right this time again? I have no intention of getting into the election forecasting business, but here’s my humble guess: Harris will easily win the popular vote, and Trump — if he loses in the electoral college — will dispute the results.
He is already preparing the ground for contesting the election by saying Harris staged an alleged illegal “coup” against Biden’s nomination, still refuses to accept his defeat in the 2020 elections, and routinely praises the insurrectionists who occupied the Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, in an effort to revert the election results.
On top of that, Trump has not yet committed to accepting a potential adverse result in this year’s elections. He doesn’t play by the rules of democracy, or decency. So, whatever happens, my prediction is that it will be a big mess.
TxDOT pushes forward on buyback of SH 288
Action would reduce average daily toll rates by 50%
To provide Texans with toll relief and more free lanes on which to drive, the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) is preparing to terminate the SH 288 Comprehensive Development Agreement (CDA).
This action will place the SH 288 managed lanes in Harris County under full state control allowing future toll rates to be significantly less than what is allowed under the current agreement and enabling TxDOT to move ahead with adding more free lanes along SH 288.
“Building roads, reducing tolls, and saving taxpayer money are top priorities,” said Governor Greg Abbott. “All three are achieved with the Texas Department of Transportation terminating the SH 288 Comprehensive Development Agreement. It will allow the State of Texas to receive over $2 billion in added valuation. TxDOT will use the added value to slash future toll charges and to build free lanes on that segment of State Highway 288. I thank TxDOT for making it easier and cheaper for Texans to travel that route.”
The public can expect a reduction of average daily toll rates by 50% in the next few years. Also, TxDOT will be prepared to begin construction of additional free lanes along portions of SH 288 by no later than 2030, eliminating the contractual restrictions and repayment requirements specified in the current concession agreement.
“I have worked every day for the last few weeks with TxDOT, the Governor, and the Attorney General to bring about this historic action to terminate the SH 288 Comprehensive Development Agreement with a foreign company,” Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick said. “It was
a team effort. We will provide meaningful relief for Texas drivers along this corridor. Securing a more than $4 billion asset for just $1.7 billion will not only benefit Texas drivers, it will also enable TxDOT to continue investing in and advancing crucial roadway projects across the state. This strategic action demonstrates our commitment to making fiscally responsible decisions and prioritizing the best interests of Texas and its residents.”
“By taking this proactive, cost-saving opportunity, Texas will be able to provide toll relief by reducing average toll rates by 50% for drivers as soon as possible,” said Texas Transportation Commission Chairman Bruce Bugg, Jr. “By terminating this CDA, Texas will also be able to accelerate the construction of general-purpose lanes much faster than what the current CDA allows us. This is a big win for our taxpayers.”
TxDOT believes the cost of the “buy out” provision in the contract is substantially below the value of future toll revenues on the corridor—even with the anticipated reduction in toll rates. It is expected that the “buy out” payment of $1.7 billion would be paid off with future toll revenue bonds, ensuring that other planned projects around Texas will proceed on schedule. Additionally, Texas can pay off debt at least 10 years earlier than the current concession agreement, allowing future tolls to be removed. The state intends to assume operations in October 2024. Aside from lower toll rates and additional free lanes in the future, drivers should not expect to see any notable changes regarding maintenance, operations, or billing.
Contact Media Relations at MediaRelations@txdot.gov or (512) 463-8700.
STC joins nationwide fellowship to support Latino student success Official Opening of McAllen Fire Training Facility
South Texas College Dean of Institutional Research, Effectiveness and Strategic Planning, Fernando Chapa, Ph.D., was recently selected for the 2024 cohort of Excelencia in Education’s Policy Fellows program, an initiative that aims to bring the voices of those directly working with Latino students to Washington, D.C.
Chosen as one of only seven higher education professionals nationwide, Chapa will have the opportunity to bring STC’s expertise to the Excelencia in Education’s national policy agenda and participate in developing strategies to potentially influence improvements for Latino students across the country.
“Each member of this fellowship comes from an institution that has earned the Seal of Excelencia, a national recognition awarded to those demonstrating outstanding success in helping Latino students enroll in and graduate from college,” explained Chapa. “Now, we have the opportunity to actively develop solutions tailored to
the challenges Latino students face. I am honored to represent STC and advocate on behalf of our students.”
Alongside colleagues from Illinois, California, Michigan, and New York, Chapa recently traveled to Washington, D.C., where he spoke with staff members from the U.S. Department of Education and federal politicians at Capitol Hill about the challenges that Latinos face when pursuing higher education.
“It’s important for us to advocate so that those in charge can make informed decisions and guarantee an education for all Latino students,” said Chapa. “For me, the most crucial part is supporting our community. As a Latino and a first-generation student who struggled in college, I am deeply committed to being involved and helping lawmakers understand the significant impact of their decisions on us.”
While growing up, Chapa was once told “he didn’t belong in college” which discouraged him from pursuing higher education for many years, experiencing firsthand the struggles of feeling out of place.
Today, with 15 years of experience at STC, he is deeply committed to creating solutions that ignite a passion for learning in students who may feel the same way he once did.
“I want to focus on highlighting post-completion indicators, such as where students go after graduation and the financial return on their investment in their degrees, especially for two-year programs,” he explained. “What drives me here at STC stems from my own experience. I didn’t do well in high school and was labeled as someone who wouldn’t go to college. At one point, I felt completely lost and discouraged.”
Despite these challenges, Chapa eventually discovered an interest for psychology, earning both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in the field from the former University of Texas-Pan American (UTPA), now known as the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV).
However, it was his true passion for research, that ultimately led him to begin a successful career at STC in 2009 as an Institutional Research Analyst.
“Through my college experience, I discovered that when you are truly passionate about something, you can accomplish anything,” he said. “Although my work primarily involves numbers and data, my focus has always remained on our students. By analyzing and providing data such as graduation rates and job placement, we can make informed decisions and plan for
a better future.”
In 2016, he was appointed Director of Institutional Effectiveness at STC, the same year he earned his Doctorate in General Psychology: Research and Evaluation from Walden University.
In his current position, Chapa actively oversees the school’s long-term goals, plans and strategies to achieve them.
His skilled leadership has also earned him other recognitions such as the League Excellence Award from the League for Innovation in Community Colleges and the Excellence Award from the National Institute for Staff and Organizational Development.
Chapa is now prepared to bring his expertise to the national stage, sharing STC’s successful student outcomes to enhance education for Latinos across the country.
“At STC, when we ask our students what motivates them, they often mention a role model or instructor who truly inspired them,” he said. “We are committed to providing every student with that same experience, surrounded by faculty and staff who genuinely care and make a profound impact. That’s just one of the many reasons why our students achieve such remarkable success.”
He will now continue to collaborate with the fellowship through February 2025, working with his peers to examine national perspectives while leveraging campus-level expertise to engage with Excelencia’s national policy agenda.
“I never imagined I would be in this incredible position to highlight the improvements needed in education,” he added.
“Connecting with others who share this passion, collaborating and learning from their experiences has been incredibly inspiring. It’s empowering to witness how our combined efforts can advance the shared goal of ensuring success for Latino students.”
LEGAL NOTICE
Application has been made with the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission for a Mixed Beverage MB by Tequila Group, LLC DBA The Mini Bar, to be located at 209 S. 17th St Suite B, McAllen, Texas 78501, Hidalgo County. Officers of said corporation are Jimmy L. Mosqueda and Jason R. Zuniga, being members of corporation.
Amomentous day for the McAllen Fire Department as they officially open their new state-of-the-art Fire Training Facility. This incredible milestone marks a significant advancement in the training and preparedness of our firefighters, ensuring they are equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary to protect our community effectively.
The new facility boasts a large classroom, restrooms and showers, administrative offices, and conference rooms, creating a comprehensive environment for training and development. With these modern amenities, our firefighters can now engage in more rigorous and specialized training, further enhancing their ability to respond to emergencies and keep our community safe.
This facility is not just a building; it represents our commitment to the safety and well-being of the people of McAllen. As our firefighters train here, they will be better prepared to face the challenges that come with protecting our community.
Congratulations to McAllen Fire on this significant achievement. Your dedication to excellence and service is truly commendable, and this new facility will undoubtedly serve as a vital resource in your continued efforts to safeguard our city.
RONNIE CANTU JOINS WOMEN’S BASKETBALL AS GRADUATE STUDENT COACH
RIOGRANDE VALLEY – The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV) Vaqueros head women’s basketball coach Lane Lord announced on Wednesday that Ronnie Cantu, a former basketball standout at Mission Veterans Memorial, has joined the program as a graduate student coach.
Cantu will be pursuing a Master of Communications while assisting the women’s basketball program. She’ll work with the guards and posts, shadow each coach to assist with breaking down film for scouting reports and fundamental drills, and help coordinate travel and other aspects of basketball operations. Cantu will help run practices and travel to road games with the team.
“We’re really excited to have Ronnie for many reasons. She’s from the Valley, played college basketball for four years, and to have her back here to help us get engaged in the community is great,” Lord said. “She’ll be with us for two years, which is a blessing. One of the most important things is she has a lot of knowledge with Synergy and a lot of our video-editing systems that she used in college, so now she’s on the other side of it breaking down film and she’ll gain a lot of knowledge working with our staff. We coaches have the greatest job in the world and to be able to pass that knowledge on to the young people is what we’re here for.”
Cantu comes to UTRGV after playing for the St. Edward’s Hilltoppers from 202024, where she earned her bachelor’s in
kinesiology with an emphasis in physical therapy. The 5-4 guard played in 94 games making 31 starts and averaging 3.9 points, 1.8 rebounds, and 1.4 assists per game at St. Edward’s. She was a 74% shooter from the free-throw line and averaged 19.6 minutes per game for her career. Cantu earned the Topper True award while at St. Edward’s, which is given to one student-athlete each year who embodies what it means to be a Hilltopper.
Growing up a coach’s kid, Cantu calls herself a “gym rat” and grew up around the game of basketball. She played for her dad, Rafael, at Mission Veterans, where she racked up individual accolades as a four-year letterwinner. She was the district and RGV Basketball Coaches Association (RGVBCA) All-Valley Newcomer of the Year in 2017, the district co-MVP in 2019, and the district and RGVBCA MVP in 2020. She also earned The Monitor’s All-Area Co-Offensive Player of the Year, All-Region IV and Class 5A AllState honors from the Texas Association of Basketball Coaches (TABC) as a senior.
“I’m truly happy to be back home, and what better way to make my homecoming than by contributing with the sport I’ve loved my entire life,” Cantu said. “I’m excited to work with Coach Lord and the rest of the coaching staff and the team, to learn about them and from them. I really want to take this coaching opportunity and see where I can run with it.”
Coming off her own four-year career,
Cantu hopes to be a resource to help the Vaqueros adjust to the demands of being a collegiate student-athlete. She’ll lean on the experiences gained during her own playing career to preach the importance of the guard-post relationship and balancing academics with athletics.
“Being a student-athlete isn’t an easy task, so my goal is to be someone they can lean on and talk to and feel vulnerable with and give some basketball knowledge as well,” Cantu said. “My dad was my high school coach, so I was lucky to have an amazing human being guide me. The best thing about going into coaching now is I can use all of that love from my dad and my previous coaches and mentors and be that person for the next generation.”
Cantu is eager to soak up lessons from the Vaqueros coaching staff and share her love of the game. She said it’s special to be back home as she embarks on a new chapter in basketball and aims to be an asset to the program.
“I want to thank the Valley, the community, for all of their love and support and everything they’ve done as I continued my journey into college basketball and now back to the Valley,” Cantu said. “The beauty of this staff is that we’re all so different in a good way. We all bring something new and exciting to the table. I’m so excited to go on this journey with this team.”
Participate Members’ Women’s Soccer Earns
Draw at Tarleton State
The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV) Vaqueros women’s soccer team scored their first goal of the season as they earned a 1-1 draw against the Tarleton State Texans on Tuesday at Tarleton Soccer Complex.
The Vaqueros (0-1-1) came out at the start of the match with urgency as they put the pressure on Tarleton State (0-0-3) taking three shots and forced two corners in first eight minutes.
The Texans found themselves in the right place at the right time in the 25th minute. As the Vaqueros were attempting to clear a ball out the box, the kick deflected off Jessica Baires and ricocheted into the goal giving them the 1-0 lead.
In the second half, the Vaqueros were relentless with their pressure on the Texans and found the back of the net for their first goal of the season. Freshman Lisa Elowsson found freshman Rubi Ortiz streaking across the pitch. Ortiz then connected with a cutting redshirt junior Savannah Frisby who got it past Mikayla Kendall for the equalizer in the 50thminute.
The pressure by the Vaqueros gave them a great look at the go-ahead goal but Kendall made a diving stop to keep the match tied. The Vaqueros finished the match with 11 shots, seven of which came in the second half, and seven corners.
In her first collegiate start, freshman Heiddis Emma Sigurdardottir (0-0-1) finished with five saves doing her part to keep the match in a draw.
The Vaqueros will be back in action on Sunday, Aug. 25, when they visit Rice University at 11 a.m.
IMAS Invites Community to Participate in 4th Annual Members’ Juried Art Show
The International Museum of Art & Science (IMAS) has announced its 4th Annual Members’ Juried Art Show (MJAS), an exhibition that offers local artists the chance to display their work in a professional museum setting. Running from October 5, 2024, through January 5, 2025, this exhibition will showcase the diverse talents of the community and celebrate the creative spirit of IMAS members. This year’s exhibition which fosters community development is supported in part by the Rotary Club of Edinburg.
Why Participate?
The MJAS is a special opportunity exclusively for IMAS members to have their artwork featured in one of the region’s most respected art institutions. As part of IMAS’s ongoing commitment to fostering local talent, this juried exhibition is designed
to highlight the artistic achievements of its members. Submitting artwork for the MJAS is a benefit of IMAS membership, which is open to all individuals aged 18 and older.
IMAS members may submit up to two pieces of artwork, with the guarantee that at least one will be included in the show. The selected pieces will be reviewed by an independent juror, Jon Joanis, a renowned artist with a diverse background in fine arts and design. Joanis will not only select the final artworks for the exhibition but will also award Best of Show, Second Place, Third Place, and three Honorable Mentions, each carrying a monetary prize.
“It’s wonderful to see the variety and number of artists, style, and media that our community has to offer. The amount of support our community has for their artists is incredible!” exclaimed Marcelo Ramirez Garcia-Rojas, IMAS Curator.
How to Participate
To participate, artists must be current IMAS members. Memberships can be purchased or renewed at any time, including up to the date of artwork submission. Membership at IMAS comes with a variety of benefits, including free admission to the museum, discounts on events and classes, and the opportunity to participate in exclusive exhibitions like the MJAS. Artists interested in submitting their work into the 2024 MJAS must complete the MJAS application, available on the IMAS website. The completed form must be submitted in person during one of the artwork drop off dates below along with their artwork submission(s):
Friday, September 20, 2024 | 10:00 a.m.
– 5:00 p.m.
Saturday, September 21, 2024 | 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Key Dates:
• Notification of Declined Artwork: Wednesday, September 25, 2024 | By 5:00 p.m.
• Opening Reception: Saturday, October 5, 2024 | 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
• End of Show Artwork Pick-up: January 10-11, 2025 | 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
• Uncollected Artwork Disposal Date: Friday, February 7, 2025 | 5:00 p.m.
Become a Member Today!
For those not yet members, now is the perfect time to join the IMAS family and take advantage of this incredible opportunity. Memberships start at $35 for individuals and $75 for families and can be purchased directly through the IMAS website or at the museum. By becoming a member, supporters not only help sustain the arts in the community but also gain access to a wealth of cultural experiences and events throughout the year.
For more information on how to submit artwork or to become a member, visit theimasonline.org/member or contact IMAS directly at 956-681-2800.
The International Museum of Art & Science invites everyone to join in celebrating the creativity and talent of the community at the 4th Annual Members’ Juried Art Show.
Fishing for Beginners
Get Certified and Become a Bona Fide Angler!
Ready to dive into the world of fishing?
Bentsen State Park invites you to join our “Fishing for Beginners” course, where you can learn the basics of fishing and become a certified angler. This fun, hands-on program is open to all ages and is perfect for anyone looking to start their fishing journey.
Taking place on Saturday, August 24, 2024, from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM, this instructor-led training course is designed to introduce beginning anglers to essential fishing skills. Whether you’re a child or an adult, you’ll enjoy learning about tackle assembly, fishing knots, aquatic habitats, and fishing regulations in a safe and engaging indoor environment.
Participants will have the opportunity to master at least two common fishing knots and practice casting with a spincast rod-andreel combo to perfect their technique. You’ll also learn to identify freshwater game fish and explore the different types of baits and lures used in fishing. Upon completing the course, you’ll receive a Basic Angler Certification and a fish recognition pin! This program is limited in capacity, so be sure to reserve your spot today. Children must be at least 7 years old, and parents are encouraged to join in the fun. Our goal is to teach families the basics of fishing, increase participation in recreational fishing, and foster a love for safe and ethical angling while promoting responsible stewardship of our aquatic resources.
Enjoy free fishing at state parks—no fishing license or stamp is required! What to Bring: Sunscreen, hat, water, comfortable shoes
Meeting Location: Park Headquarters, Tram Turnaround
Registration: Attendance is limited. Call 956-584-9156 or sign up at Park Headquarters to reserve your spot. Registration starts on the 1st of the month.
Cost: Entry fee is $5 for adults; free for children 12 and under. (Park entry is free with a Texas State Park Pass.)
Don’t miss this chance to become a certified angler and enjoy the great outdoors. We look forward to seeing you at Bentsen-Rio Grande Valley State Park!
Navigating Treatment Options for Behavioral Health DHR Health Doctor First in the RGV to Perform MACI® Procedure
Understandingthe right level of care for varying behavioral health needs can be confusing. Below is a simplified guide to the differences between inpatient treatment, intensive outpatient programs (IOP) and standard therapy.
Inpatient behavioral health treatment
Inpatient treatment is the most intensive level of care. It’s typically designed for individuals experiencing severe behavioral health issues, such as acute depression, suicidal thoughts, or severe anxiety. Patients stay at a facility 24/7, receiving roundthe-clock care and support from a team of professionals. This environment provides a structured space for stabilization and intensive therapy, including individual and group sessions, medication management and related treatments.
Intensive outpatient programs (IOP)
For those needing significant support, but not requiring full-time hospitalization, IOPs offer a middle ground. Patients participate in structured therapy sessions while continuing to live at home. This flexibility allows them to maintain their daily responsibilities while receiving comprehensive treatment.
The STHS Behavioral IOP is a time limited, individualized treatment program for candidates in need of more intensive behavioral health treatment than is normally
available through an outpatient psychiatric clinic but not in need inpatient hospitalization. Individualized care plans allow for a collaborative treatment method designed to help patients achieve positive results.
IOP participants discuss topics including:
• Coping with depression and anxiety
• Stress and anger management
• Communication and socialization skills
• Relaxation skills
• And more
Seeing a therapist
Sessions with a licensed therapist are often right for individuals managing less severe behavioral health issues or those who need ongoing support after more intensive treatment. This option typically involves weekly or bi-weekly sessions, either in person or virtually, where individuals work through their thoughts, feelings and behaviors in a safe and confidential setting.
Choosing the right care
Deciding on the appropriate level of care depends on the severity of symptoms, the level of support needed and personal circumstances. Consulting with a healthcare provider can help determine the best path to recovery. Remember, seeking help is a courageous first step towards better mental health.
DHRHealth is proud to announce that Orthopedic Surgeon Dr. Daniel Romanelli, an expert in his field with over 24 years of experience and dual board certified in Orthopedic Surgery and Sports Medicine, has successfully performed the first MACI® (Matrix-Induced Autologous Chondrocyte Implantation) procedure at DHR Health Brownsville hospital. In fact, Dr. Romanelli was the first orthopedic surgeon in the Rio Grande Valley to introduce this advanced cartilage repair treatment beginning in 2000. This milestone marks the first time the procedure has been conducted at DHR Health’s sister hospital located in Brownsville.
MACI® is considered a cutting-edge, autologous cellularized scaffold product designed to treat single or multiple symptomatic, full-thickness cartilage defects of the adult knee. The procedure involves harvesting the patient’s own cartilage cells, expanding them, and implanting them onto a membrane that is custom-sized and shaped to fit the defect. This technique allows for more precise and effective cartilage repair, potentially leading to improved outcomes for patients suffering from knee cartilage damage.
“This is a significant advancement for orthopedic care in our region,” said Dr. Romanelli. “The MACI® procedure offers a highly personalized approach to cartilage
repair, providing patients with a treatment option that is both innovative and effective. I am honored to bring this technology to Brownsville and to DHR Health, where we are committed to offering the latest and most effective treatments to patients of our community.”
The procedure is specifically indicated for adult patients with full-thickness cartilage defects in the knee, with or without bone involvement. However, its use is not without limitations. MACI® is not recommended for patients with severe osteoarthritis, inflammatory joint diseases, or those who have had knee surgery within the past six months. Additionally, its safety and effectiveness in patients over the age of 55, or in joints other than the knee, have not been established.
Dr. Romanelli who has been performing the MACI® procedure for over two decades, emphasized the importance of careful patient selection and post-operative care to achieve the best outcomes.
“Each patient’s condition is unique, and I take great care in determining the most appropriate treatment plan. With MACI®, I am able to tailor the procedure to the specific needs of the patient, which can make a significant difference in their recovery and long-term knee function, said Dr. Romanelli.
