Business
Business news from McAllen and the Rio Grande Valley.
BusinessCamp Mystic in Texas files for bankruptcy after catastrophic floods killed 28 people
Camp Mystic filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy reorganization on Wednesday, nearly a year after catastrophic floods killed 25 girls and two teenage counselors at the all-girls Christian camp in Texas. In paperwork filed with the U.S. Bankruptcy Court in the Southern District of Texas in Houston, the camp listed its debt as more than $10
BusinessSpaceX Accelerates AI Expansion to Power the Future of Aerospace Innovation
SpaceX is significantly advancing its artificial intelligence initiatives to enhance its engineering and operational efficiency. The company is actively hiring AI specialists and acquiring firms like Anysphere, which developed Cursor, to bolster its capabilities. These new positions will focus on creating and implementing AI systems for aerospace and government use, covering areas such as data analysis and automation. Additionally, SpaceX is developing AI-driven tools to improve rocket and spacecraft design through machine learning and autonomous workflows. These efforts reflect SpaceX's strategy to integrate AI into its core operations, aiming to boost innovation and productivity in the aerospace sector.
BusinessMexico Recognizes the Gómez Family as Owners of the Viral 'World Cup Duck' Brand
Mexico City, June 24 (EFE) - Vidal Llerenas, director of the Mexican Institute of Industrial Property (IMPI), confirmed on Wednesday that the brand of the bird Merlín, known as the 'World Cup Duck', belongs to the family of Carla Ivette Gómez, after the owner claimed her rights due to the 'abuse' by companies that 'profited' from the image of the unofficial World Cup mascot. Llerenas stated in a post on his official X account that 'it is a public and notorious fact' that, as of June 24, Merlín 'is a mascot' of the Gómez family 'to whom the brand belongs.' The registration announcement was also shared on the social media accounts of IMPI and Mexico's Ministry of Economy, led by Marcelo Ebrard. 'I need to register it now because there is a lot of abuse (by companies), and I repeat, they are taking advantage of a humble family,' Gómez said in an interview with EFE on June 20. The owner visited IMPI last Monday to register the bird, which had already received four trademark registration requests from outside the Gómez family since June 17. On the IMPI site, these trademark registration requests remain available under the names 'El pato Merlín' or 'El pato de la suerte', with the former belonging to a woman residing in Zapopan, Jalisco, and a representative living in Mexico City. Meanwhile, 'El pato de la suerte' was submitted by a man from Yucatán, who also declared himself the owner and representative of the brand, attaching an image created with Artificial Intelligence (AI). The viral phenomenon of Merlín began on June 11 in the historic center of Mexico City when Mexico defeated South Africa 2-0 in the World Cup's opening match. That day, the Gómez family went out to sell sodas and waters accompanied by the bird, which wore the Mexican national team's jersey, sparking euphoria among World Cup fans who shared videos and photos of the animal. This led various brands, from betting houses to airlines, to use the image of the World Cup duck without the family's permission. 'At what point did they ask us for permission?' Gómez questioned. The fame of the so-called 'magic duck', named after a legendary wizard, reached FIFA, which named it an ambassador for the World Cup in Mexico City, and even reached the doors of the National Palace during a meeting with Mexico's president, Claudia Sheinbaum.
BusinessThe best deals of Prime Day 2026, Day 2
It's day 2 of Prime Day, and the prices keep dropping Prime Day is Amazon's biggest sale of the year — and this year, it arrived early. The four-day event is running June 23-26, a shift from the usual July dates. Prime Day 2026 kicked off at 12:01 a.m. PDT, with deals available on the Prime page and
BusinessCamp Mystic Files for Bankruptcy One Year After Tragedy That Left 28 Dead in Texas
Camp Mystic filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy on Wednesday, nearly a year after catastrophic flooding resulted in the deaths of 28 individuals, including 25 girls and two counselors, at the Christian girls' camp in Texas in July 2025. Court documents reveal the camp's debt exceeds $10 million, with assets estimated between $100,001 and $500,000. Families of the victims have filed a lawsuit seeking over $1 million in damages, claiming the camp failed to take necessary precautions during the flooding. The camp had previously announced plans to reopen this summer but reversed its decision amid public outcry and ongoing investigations.
BusinessCamp Mystic Files for Bankruptcy One Year After Tragedy That Left 28 Dead in Texas
Camp Mystic filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy on Wednesday, nearly a year after catastrophic flooding in Texas resulted in 28 deaths, including 25 girls and two counselors at the girls' Christian camp. In documents submitted to the U.S. Bankruptcy Court in Houston, the camp reported debts exceeding $10 million, with assets valued between $100,001 and $500,000. Families of the victims have filed a lawsuit seeking over $1 million in damages, claiming the camp operators failed to protect the girls during the flooding on July 4. The camp had previously planned to reopen this summer but halted those plans amid public outrage and ongoing investigations.
BusinessApplications open for Harlingen business pitch competition
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — Applications are now open for entrepreneurs and early-stage startups seeking thousands of dollars in grants to start a business in Harlingen. It's part of the 2026 RISE UP Harlingen Business Pitch Competition by the Harlingen Economic Development and the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley Entrepreneurship and Commercialization Center. The Harlingen
BusinessWorkforce Solutions Drives Inclusive Hiring in the RGV at 2026 Forum
On June 23, 2026, Workforce Solutions, in collaboration with the Disability Chamber of Commerce – RGV, McAllen Economic Development Corporation, and McAllen Chamber of Commerce, hosted the 2026 Employer HireAbility Forum in McAllen. The event aimed to promote inclusive hiring practices and expand job opportunities for individuals with disabilities. Employers and community leaders discussed the benefits of diverse talent pools and shared best practices for creating accessible workplaces. Francisco Almaraz, CEO of Workforce Solutions, emphasized that inclusive hiring is a smart strategy for businesses. The forum highlighted the importance of collaboration in strengthening the regional economy.
BusinessPrime Day is a great time to stock up on back-to-school essentials
Get them ready for school with these bargains for Prime Day.
BusinessSpace Giant Axiom Space officially Shifts Legal Residence to Texas
Axiom Space has officially moved its legal headquarters to Texas, as announced by Governor Greg Abbott. During a meeting with Axiom's CEO Dr. Jonathan Cirtain, Abbott emphasized Texas' role as a leader in aerospace innovation and commercial spaceflight. The state boasts over 150,000 aerospace workers and NASA's Johnson Space Center, contributing more than $9.8 billion annually to the economy. Cirtain noted that Texas' supportive business environment and regulatory framework were key factors in the decision. Axiom Space, based in Houston, is known for its private astronaut missions and is developing Axiom Station, a future commercial space station.
BusinessBob Lozano Discusses AI Applications as Pharr EDC Launches Trade and Tech Initiative
On June 22, 2026, the Pharr Economic Development Corporation (EDC) launched its Trade & Tech initiative at the Pharr Global Business Hub. The event featured Bob Lozano, CEO of F&P Group and founder of Restro Tech, who discussed the integration of artificial intelligence and automation in restaurant operations. Lozano emphasized how AI can enhance efficiency and productivity across multiple locations, making technology accessible for businesses of all sizes. The initiative aims to connect local entrepreneurs with resources and expertise to foster growth and competitiveness in various industries.
BusinessPharr EDC Launches Trade and Tech Initiative with Restaurant Technology Roundtable
The Pharr Economic Development Corporation (Pharr EDC) launched its Trade & Tech initiative on June 22, 2026, in collaboration with UTRGV’s Entrepreneurship and Commercialization Center and Restro Tech. The event at the Pharr Global Business Hub gathered business owners and community leaders to discuss the impact of technology in the restaurant industry. Pharr EDC aims to help businesses adapt to technological changes and enhance growth. Keynote speakers emphasized the importance of innovation and global connectivity in economic development. The initiative will offer educational programs and networking opportunities to address emerging technologies across various sectors.
BusinessPrime Day deals are live: Apple, Shark, Dyson and more
Prime Day has started and huge deals are already live Prime Day is Amazon's biggest sale of the year — and this year, it arrived early. The four-day event is running June 23-26, a shift from the usual July dates. Prime Day 2026 kicked off at 12:01 a.m. PDT, with deals available on the Prime page and in
BusinessMission Cimarron Country Club sold for $3 million
The Cimarron Golf Course in Mission has been sold for nearly $3 million to a group of investors from Texas and Mexico, as announced by the Mission Economic Development Corporation. Among the investors is local golf pro Abraham Ancer. The course, spanning over 200 acres, is set for restoration, which may require over $20 million and take up to three years. Mission Mayor Norie Garza highlighted the sale as a significant investment for the community, aiming to revitalize a beloved local destination and enhance economic opportunities in the area.
BusinessThe latest Starbase update with LabPadre: June 22
STARBASE, Texas (ValleyCentral) -- The latest at Starbase will begin with this week's fabrication updates. On Friday afternoon, the first section of the Booster 21 methane stack was moved from Star Factory. Later that night, the article was taken into Megabay 2 as SpaceX prepares to start stacking operations for the second part of this
BusinessWeslaco HEB driver becomes fourth in company history to hit 4 million miles
Jose Luis Jaramillo, a truck driver from Weslaco, is set to reach four million consecutive safe miles with H-E-B on Wednesday, making him the fourth driver in the company's history to achieve this milestone. Jaramillo, who has been with H-E-B since 1990, has dedicated nearly 25 years to the job, often working night shifts. He emphasizes the importance of safety checks before each drive and enjoys connecting with the community during his routes. A special ceremony will honor his achievement, starting in Donna and concluding at the Weslaco transportation terminal, where he is celebrated by colleagues and family.
BusinessBCIC Launches Applications for Final EDA-Funded ‘Startup Texas’ Cohort at eBridge Center
The Brownsville Community Improvement Corporation (BCIC) has launched applications for the final cohort of its Startup Texas program, funded by the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA). The application period runs from June 22 to August 10, 2026, for a program that begins on August 31 and culminates in a Demo Day on December 10, 2026. This initiative targets startups in various sectors, including technology, healthcare, and green energy, offering a package worth over $200,000, which includes a year of incubation at the eBridge Center. Weekly mentorship sessions will be held on Tuesdays from 10 a.m. to noon.
BusinessWorkforce Solutions, local organizations host HireAbility forum
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — Workforce Solutions Lower Rio Grande Valley is partnering with the Disability Chamber of Commerce – RGV, McAllen Economic Development Corporation, and the McAllen Chamber of Commerce for its 2026 Employer HireAbility Forum on Tuesday. During the forum, local leaders and businesses will explore opportunities to strengthen hiring practices for individuals with disabilities. Those in attendance will hear from employers who have successfully
BusinessPrime Day 2026: How to save big by loading your carts now
Our editors have combed through the early deals and are finding some prices so low that it would actually be a good idea to shop them early.