Federal Investment
   On December 28, United States Senator John Cornyn (R-TX), met with a small group of business leaders for a casual conversation, including a question-and-answer session.

   During this invaluable opportunity for the Rio Grande Valley and its Partnership, Senator Cornyn presented his legislative agenda to promote economic vitality, border security, and immigration policy for this region.  Pledging to be an advocate for the Rio Grande Valley in Washington, Senator Cornyn said his platforms buttress a pro-growth policy.

   "The only thing that is not an option is inaction," said Senator Cornyn of his work toward policy and appropriations for the Valley.

   Similarly, United States Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison (R-TX) emphasized action through teamwork during a luncheon hosted by the Rio Grande Valley Partnership at the Villa de Cortez in Weslaco in August 2004. 

   Addressing Partnership members and associates on an array of border issues, such as academic development, water access, homeland security, and transportation initiatives, Senator Hutchison acknowledged the importance of working together to bring recognition and resources to the Rio Grande Valley.    

   U.S. Congressman Ruben Hinojosa, former two-term Partnership board member, discussed the impact of the Presidential election on issues affecting the Rio Grande Valley, particularly US-VISIT, transportation, energy, water, and education, which he prioritizes as the cornerstone for regional development.

  During a presentation and reception October 26, Congressman Hinojosa encouraged Valley residents and businesses to get involved in the political process, explaining that those communities that invest in their politicians-with votes and with dollars-are those communities that get "on the screen in DC."  The Congressman then thanked the Partnership for its leadership, conveying Valley issues to the Capitol.

State Investment
Every legislative session since 1975, the Rio Grande Valley Partnership has invited all state senators and representatives on a long weekend here.  During a four-day whirlwind tour, the Partnership shows them the sites and attractions at the Tip-of-Texas; more memorably, it introduces them to the extraordinary people and potential of the Rio Grande Valley. 
   Later, as they review policy options and formulate their arguments back in the Capitol, those politicians understand more intimately this area and the issues relevant to it.  Because of this invaluable exposure, the Partnership believes the legislators' Visit to the Valley is one of the most significant projects it coordinates to benefit the entire region. 
   During the most recent "Visit to the Valley" on January 27 - 30, 2005, five state senators and fourteen state representatives from across Texas learned about regional issues as they experienced renowned local hospitality. 
   As captured in photographs: Rep. Chuck Hopson flies a plane at the Commemorative Air Museum; Sen. "Chuy" Hinojosa and his family pose with Harlem Globetrotters at Dodge Arena;  many legislators pose together after an Azteca horse show and barbeque lunch in Weslaco; Rep. Bob Griggs, Brenda Smith, and Rep. Wayne Smith enjoy a safari-themed dinner at the Gladys-Porter Zoo;  Rep. Anna Mowery picks her own citrus; and Sen. Eddie Lucio, Eugenio Hernandez Flores, governor of Tamaulipas, Mexico, and Rep. Bob Hunter join in a fiesta at the Alonzo Building.