On The Border with George Altgelt

Join Sergio Mora, Hammrod News, Carlos Mariano Guerra for our first 2026 episode!• Vanessa Perez' $6M Boondoggle: What's the real cost?• Webb County Judge race: Can Tano E. Tijerina take down Henry Cuellar?• Venezuela under Trump Admin: Mission accomplished?Tune in for thought-provoking Laredo politics discussions!

After 12 years of distinguished service on the bench, Judge Monica Notzon leaves the 111th District Court better than she found it and career prosecutor, adjunct professor, and public servant Joaquin Rodriguez intends to do the same.Learn about Joaquin’s stellar career as an Assistant District Attorney and his leading role as a civil litigator on behalf of the City of Laredo — and why he believes his years of experience make him the right person for the job.https://youtu.be/03s7PFOgPcE

New Episode Alert! Just dropped: "On the Border with George Altgelt and Friends" featuring Laredo's own trailblazing Dr. Melissa Martin! We're diving deep into lifestyle medicine, root-cause health solutions, and her innovative Axis Direct primary care model right here in Laredo. From growing up on a South Texas ranch to building personalized health plans that go beyond pills-- think nutrition, sleep hacks, stress-busting tips and even a shot of olive oil?https://youtu.be/5psU2FbNPyc

After the Laredo Citycouncils fouled a $417 million dollar bond, Eliseo Valdez shared his view on how the city invested in projects that would yield economic development return on investment vs. the city's new model of maxing the credit card just because we can. Join us for insight into how a heart of service, faith, and vision can help lift everyone and not just the powers that be.

Laredo's own Karen Gaytan brings home an Emmy as a producer for 'Stories of Hope and Ingenuity' in National Geographic's Science Fair: The Series. On the Border visits with Karen regarding her purposeful steps and the exercise of true grit along the uphill road to living out her purpose on earth

Keith Franklin is a successful attorney, philanthropist, and community leader. He joins us to share his journey—from his work with the Boys & Girls Club and the Laredo Area Community Foundation to his father’s artisanal craftsmanship. Join us in this engaging episode with Keith Franklin as we dive into topics of philanthropy, community service, and adventure. This episode is a mix of heartfelt conversations, insightful reflections, and a celebration of giving back. (00:00) Introduction and Casual Banter (01:13) Starting the Podcast: Drinks and Cigars (03:10) Guest Introduction: Keith Franklin (05:42) Keith's Background and Family (11:06) Board Games and Poker Stories (17:11) Philanthropy and Boys & Girls Club (31:57) Challenges of After-School Programs (33:12) Boys and Girls Club Partnerships (34:04) City and School District Collaborations (35:59) Funding and Maintenance Issues (41:15) Community Engagement and Improvements (43:55) Personal Reflections and New Year's Resolutions (45:40) Travel Adventures in Patagonia (01:06:13) Motorcycle Travel and Wanderlust (01:13:34) Exploring the Blanco River (01:14:15) Human Nature and Exploration (01:14:38) Climate Change (01:16:45) Finding Happiness in Service (01:19:03) The Dr. Lance T Fox Memorial Organization (01:27:50) The Laredo Area Community Foundation (01:29:38) Setting Up Endowments and Scholarships (01:38:52) Managing Nonprofit Funds (01:43:48) Reflections on Long-Term Impact (01:47:17) Cotulla and Laredo Connections (01:52:24) Concluding Thoughts and Farewell

In this engaging episode, Tanya Benavides shares her journey from growing up in Laredo to becoming a community organizer and political candidate. Tanya discusses the issues facing Laredo, including infrastructure, leadership, and the misallocation of taxpayer dollars. She highlights her vision for District 4 and the importance of grassroots efforts in combating political machines and big money influences. Tanya also emphasizes the significance of transparency, good governance, and community involvement in making sustainable changes. The conversation covers her work as a teacher, community organizer, and her motivation for returning to Laredo, aiming to create a thriving city for future generations. (00:00) Introduction (00:25) Grassroots vs. Big Money: The Political Landscape (01:00) Meet Tanya: A Journey Back to Laredo (02:35) Community Challenges and Aspirations (03:13) Returning Home: The Call to Serve (03:54) Teaching and Organizing: Shaping Policy from the Ground Up (08:27) The Power of Community Organizing (10:39) District 4: Core Issues and Concerns (14:17) Election Dynamics and Grassroots Campaigning (19:37) City Council and Policy Challenges (27:43) Navigating Political Challenges (29:27) Building Consensus and Negotiating (35:10) Transparency and Integrity in Politics (40:25) Vision for District 4 (48:14) Encouraging Voter Participation (49:36) Podcast Tradition: Olive Oil Shots

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  (00:00) Tyler King Podcast (00:47) Introduction and Icebreaker with Dr. Tyler King (02:58) Challenges in Laredo's Water Infrastructure (04:37) E. Coli in Water and City Management Issues (13:23) Water Rate Increases and Financial Struggles (25:24) City Council Pay Raise Controversy (31:50) Public Reaction and Political Implications (43:59) Public Reaction to Council Decisions (45:34) The Importance of Open Government (49:05) Local Elections and Civic Engagement (52:57) The Role of Alternative Media (54:37) Health Talk and Olive Oil Shot

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.