Summer 2026 Adventure Awaits: Camp RIO Opens Registration for Kids

Camp RIO in Brownsville, Texas, has opened registration for its 2026 summer camp, welcoming children aged 5-14. The camp, located on the historic Lula Sams property, offers a range of outdoor activities including archery, canoeing, swimming, and arts and crafts. The camp runs from June 7 to July 31, providing both day and overnight options, with transportation available from McAllen, Weslaco, and Harlingen. Financial assistance is also offered to help families participate. Camp RIO is known for its nature-based programming and aims to foster confidence and leadership in children. For more details, visit www.camprio.org.

Mrs Baird’s Bread Launches Fifth Annual Fighting Texas Hunger Campaign

Mrs Baird’s Bread has launched its fifth annual Fighting Texas Hunger campaign, partnering with food banks across Texas to combat food insecurity. The initiative aims to support over 5 million Texans by donating more than 182,000 loaves of bread throughout June, including 11,000 loaves to the Food Bank of the Rio Grande Valley. Residents can participate by donating food or money, with every dollar providing up to seven meals. The campaign highlights the increased need for food assistance during summer when school meal programs are unavailable, encouraging community involvement to help local families in need.

Pharr Breaks Ground on Landmark Multi-Use Facility Under Leadership of Mayor Dr. Ambrosio Hernandez

The City of Pharr recently held a groundbreaking ceremony for a new multi-use facility, led by Mayor Dr. Ambrosio Hernandez. This 83,567-square-foot project aims to enhance community engagement and cultural identity. The event featured presentations from local leaders and a video showcasing the facility's design. Located on a 14.6-acre site at FM 495 and U.S. Highway 281, the building will incorporate modern architecture and advanced technology. Mayor Hernandez emphasized the project's significance for future generations, stating it represents Pharr's growth and commitment to arts and culture in the Rio Grande Valley.

BTX Pride Alliance to host ceremony to honor lives lost in Pulse shooting

HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) -- A ceremony will be held in Brownsville on Friday to honor and remember the 49 lives lost in one of the deadliest mass shootings in the U.S. Friday will mark 10 years since the Pulse Orlando nightclub shooting, referred to as one of the deadliest attacks on the LGBTQ+ community in

Rio Grande City recognizes teen author with rare genetic disorder

Rio Grande City honored 17-year-old Edie Faith Garza from La Grulla for her achievements as a young author. Despite having Williams syndrome, a rare genetic disorder, Edie has published her first book, "Miracle for Santa," which focuses on themes of hope and faith. She actively engages with children at libraries and schools, sharing her story and encouraging others to pursue their dreams regardless of challenges. Edie expressed her empowerment through writing, stating, "I feel like a powerful woman." Her upcoming second book will address her personal fear of spiders. The community celebrated her inspiring journey.

Mission forms advisory committee to rebuild historic preservation efforts

Mission city officials have replaced the historic preservation commission with a new advisory committee aimed at enhancing preservation efforts. The previous commission was deemed inadequate in terms of standards and resources. This change follows a 2021 Senate bill mandating compliance with preservation laws. The new committee, effective immediately, consists of members appointed by the mayor and city council, focusing on local history and heritage. It will collaborate with the Hidalgo County Historical Commission to create a sustainable program and establish clear guidelines. Recommendations from the committee will be necessary for the city council to consider a new ordinance.

Green Valley Farms residents push back on water bill spike after March floods

Residents of Green Valley Farms, near San Benito, are expressing frustration over a significant increase in their water bills following last March's floods. One customer, Jeanneth Vela, reported her bill rising from approximately $49 to nearly $80, complicating recovery efforts for those still affected by the disaster. The East Rio Hondo Water Supply Corporation attributed the hike to the need for a secondary water source, with general manager Brian McManus stating that the funds will support the expansion of their desalination plant. While some residents understand the necessity, they feel the rate adjustment is unfair and are seeking assistance.

Veteran Females United inviting community to military sexual trauma, PTSD symposium in Brownsville

Veteran Females United is hosting a symposium focused on PTSD and military sexual trauma on Friday, June 12, at the ITEC Center in Brownsville. The event aims to raise awareness, provide educational resources, and foster community support for those affected by these issues. It will run from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Community members are encouraged to attend and learn more about the resources available. For additional information, interested individuals can contact Veteran Females United at 956-426-0101 or visit their website.

Rio Grande City families waiting on delayed water park to open

The water park project in Rio Grande City is experiencing delays, with construction still ongoing at the Fort Ringgold pool. Initially scheduled for completion last month, the project has been hindered by difficulties in securing a contractor within the $300,000 budget. City Manager Gilbert Millan emphasized the importance of quality work over quick completion. Residents like Aldo Castillo expressed disappointment, hoping to take their children to the pool this summer. The swimming pool is expected to be completed in six weeks, with additional features like a splash pad and sports courts planned for late September.

Valley Voices: Professional Wrestler "El Matatan"

HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — In the latest edition of Valley Voices, CBS 4's Marco Ramirez sits down with Professional Wrestler Matt Robledo, most commonly known as "El Matatan" Mateo Ozuna. Robledo is from Santa Rosa and has always aspired to be with the WWE. Robledo is on his way to making that dream a reality

It Takes a Village: Emergency preparedness and life-saving skills for families

HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — It Takes A Village is a weekly ValleyCentral+ series that covers all things parenting, from real, honest conversations about daily routines and challenges to funny moments, lessons learned and balancing work and family life.  Each week, host Meteorologist Lexie Walker and a guest will highlight a variety of perspectives, experiences, tips, solutions,

Stefano is Eliminated from the Sixth Season of La Casa de los Famosos

Stefano Piccioni was eliminated from the sixth season of La Casa de los Famosos this Wednesday during the semifinals. The Brazilian is one of the last finalists who spent over 100 days in the most famous house on Hispanic television. Piccioni is from Brazil but lives in the U.S. He has participated in and won several bodybuilding competitions.

McAllen Heritage Center Hosts “Veterans: Then & Now”, July 11th

The McAllen Heritage Center is hosting a special event titled “Veterans: Then & Now” on July 11th from 10 AM to 4 PM, honoring local veterans. This event offers a complimentary photoshoot and optional interviews for veterans of all ages and ranks. Participants will receive a professional 8x10 photograph, which will be displayed at the center and potentially at other venues. The interviews aim to capture personal stories and reflections from veterans, preserving their experiences for future generations. Complimentary refreshments will be provided. For more information, contact the Heritage Center at 956.687.1904 or via email.

McAllen Public Library and Workforce Solutions Community Job Fair, June 13th

The McAllen Public Library, in collaboration with Workforce Solutions, will host a Community Job Fair on June 13, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at 4001 N. 23rd St., McAllen, TX. Over 40 employers from various industries will be present, offering job seekers a chance to secure interviews and job offers. Attendees are encouraged to bring updated résumés and dress professionally. Computers will be available for online applications. This event aims to connect residents with local employment opportunities and provide resources for career development. For more details, contact the Library at (956) 681-3060.

City of Edinburg’s Second FREE Summer Concert, June 20th

The City of Edinburg is hosting its second free Summer Music Concert on Saturday, June 20, 2026, from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. at the Edinburg Promenade Amphitheater. Gates will open at 7 p.m., with live music starting at 7:30 p.m. Local bands Buzz Kill and Bullet Train will kick off the evening, performing classic rock and '80s hits. The headliner, Already Gone, is a Houston-based Eagles tribute band known for their authentic renditions of popular songs like 'Hotel California' and 'Desperado.' Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and enjoy food from local vendors. Admission is free.

Valley mariachi students perform at Carnegie Hall

Cleanup underway for invasive plant species at San Benito resaca trail

Brownsville hosting free World Cup watch party

Brownsville is set to host a free World Cup watch party at Linear Park on Friday, starting at 7 p.m. with the match between Team USA and Paraguay kicking off at 8 p.m. Approximately 200 soccer enthusiasts are expected to gather to watch the game on a massive 20-foot by 13-foot screen. Three local restaurants will provide food trucks, and 15 vendors will participate in the event. Organizers emphasize the importance of community connection and excitement for the occasion, encouraging attendees to bring their own chairs or blankets. FIFA merchandise will also be distributed during the event.

Strategist Horacio Bids Farewell to La Casa de los Famosos as Seventh Finalist

Argentinian actor Horacio Pancheri said goodbye on Tuesday as the seventh finalist of the sixth season of La Casa de los Famosos, following the public's decision, in a gala that concluded alongside his main rival Fabio Agostini. Calm yet visibly saddened, the strategist of La Casa listened to the farewell words from La Jefa after becoming the season's seventh finalist. 'Good companion, protector; today a true gentleman leaves,' La Jefa said in her farewell. 'Your calmness and honesty were your shield and sword.' Meanwhile, the warriors of light in La Casa were inconsolable, especially Josh Martínez, over Horacio Pancheri's departure. Who remains as finalists? La Casa de los Famosos, which concludes on Thursday, June 11, still has the following finalists: Luis Coronel, Josh Martínez, Celinee Santos, Stefano Piccioni, Yoridán Martínez, and Fabio Agostini.