Edinburg’s Summer Concert Series Ends on a High Note with K-Pop Experience, July 25th

Edinburg will host the final concert of its summer series on Saturday, July 25, 2026, at the Promenade Park Amphitheater. The event features a live performance by The KPOP Princesses, a tribute act inspired by the popular series Demon Hunters. Gates open at 7:30 p.m., with music starting at 8:30 p.m. This free event promises an evening of entertainment, food, and fun for families and K-pop fans alike. Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and arrive early for parking. For more details, contact the Edinburg Cultural Arts Department.

The Kitchen of Top Chef VIP Will Be on Fire: One by One, the 20 Celebrities Who Accept the Challenge

Top Chef VIP returns to Telemundo on Tuesday, September 1 at 7 PM/6C with an intense and challenging fifth season. Carmen Villalobos is back to lead the most famous kitchen on Hispanic television, where 20 celebrities will put their talent, courage, and determination to the test to impress the demanding judges, including Chef Antonio 'Toño' de Livier, Chef Tita, and Chef Betty Vázquez. In a competition filled with pressure, excitement, and plenty of flavor, participants will fight to become the next Top Chef VIP and win the grand prize of $200,000. In this kitchen, knowing how to cook is not enough; it takes character to overcome each challenge and make it to the end.

Wai Ching Ho, Marvel actress known for 'Daredevil,' dies at 82

Wai Ching Ho, the 82-year-old actress known for her role as Madame Gao in Marvel's "Daredevil," has passed away, as confirmed by her family. They expressed gratitude for the outpouring of love and support from fans, stating that the messages have provided comfort during this difficult time. Ho began her acting career in the U.S. in 1983 and appeared in various notable productions, including "Law & Order: Special Victims Unit" and "Orange Is the New Black." Tributes from co-stars highlighted her kindness and the impact she had on their lives and careers. The cause of death has not been disclosed.

An Unrecognizable Tom Cruise Surprises Everyone in the Trailer for 'Digger'

After hanging from a plane mid-flight, free-falling on a motorcycle, or climbing the world's tallest building, Tom Cruise claims he has never done anything like 'Digger,' the upcoming film by Mexican director Alejandro González Iñárritu, whose first trailer was revealed this Monday. 'I’ve never had a project that challenged me this way, nor a director like Alejandro. When we embarked on this project, neither of us had experienced anything like it,' Cruise said during the trailer presentation to media at Warner Bros. studios, where EFE was present. The trailer features a nearly unrecognizable Cruise, with very little white hair, a belly, and holding a peculiar old cat, in the role of Digger, a mogul whose company apparently causes an ecological disaster that he must resolve himself. Sometimes in cowboy boots and a hat, and other times in silk pajamas wandering through an extravagant house with a mirror framed with deer horns and animal skin rugs, Digger is seen hurling insults and reproaches at his employees while chaos unfolds around him. 'Digger has really messed things up, and he’ll have to get us out of this,' John Goodman is heard saying in the role of a U.S. president, as catastrophic images of massive ice collapses, fires, and alerts about a potential nuclear war are interspersed. Known for performing his own stunts and being one of the biggest stars in the industry, Cruise assured that in this film he was able to use 'all the different skills I’ve developed over the years.' 'There’s nothing better than to be, physically and metaphorically, on the edge of a cliff and say: ‘Let’s do it. I trust you, and whatever we’re going to do, I know it’s going to be an amazing experience,' Cruise noted. The film marks Iñárritu's return to cinema since 'Bardo' (2022) and also represents his first collaboration with Cruise, who stated he had wanted to work with the director for decades. The actor recalled the impact of seeing 'Amores perros,' Iñárritu's debut, for the first time 25 years ago, praising the 'level of skill' and the risks taken in that film. Although Iñárritu was not present, the filmmaker sent a video message stating that Digger needed Cruise as obviously 'as asking why you drink water when you’re thirsty.' The Mexican added that, like Cruise, it took him his entire career to reach the moment of making a film like this. 'We both knew that throughout our careers, we had never done anything even remotely like this. Making this film demanded everything I had. I had never prepared a project with this level of precision,' said the four-time Oscar winner for films like 'Birdman' (2014) and 'Revenant' (2015). 'I think we both know what it means to condense an entire career into a single moment like this,' he added. The director is currently in London working on the film's sound mix, which will hit theaters on October 26 and also features Emmanuel 'El Chivo' Lubezki as director of photography. The trailer also includes the first images of Sandra Hüller and Riz Ahmed in what they describe as 'a comedy of catastrophic proportions.'

WATCH LIVE: Sunday Mass, July 12, 2026

The Catholic Diocese of Brownsville invites the community to join a live broadcast of Sunday Mass on July 12, 2026. The service will air at 11 a.m. on SOMOS EL VALLE Channel 5.2 and Cable 1240. This event provides an opportunity for local residents to participate in the Mass from the comfort of their homes. For those unable to view the broadcast, additional options are available to access the service.

Arroyo Colorado cleanup removes trash flowing in from across the Valley

On Saturday, nearly 50 volunteers participated in a cleanup of the Arroyo Colorado, collecting over 3,600 pounds of debris in just three hours. The Ramos family, among the volunteers, highlighted the variety of trash found, including plastic, tires, and furniture, which poses risks to wildlife. Volunteer Lynette Linn expressed concern over the ongoing pollution and the need for community involvement in keeping the area clean. Much of the debris comes from runoff across the Rio Grande Valley, affecting the river's health. Organizers emphasized the importance of these efforts in protecting both the environment and recreational users.

Pitbull Sets Guinness World Record for Gathering the Most People in Bald Caps

Pitbull, the Cuban-American artist, set a Guinness World Record by gathering 22,141 fans wearing bald caps at his concert in BST Hyde Park, London. The event took place on July 10, 2026, where attendees, dubbed 'Bald-Es,' celebrated with enthusiasm. A Guinness representative presented the award to Pitbull, who expressed his amazement at achieving such a milestone. The record required meticulous counting by 400 volunteers to verify each participant. The idea originated from British podcaster Jack Remington, who aimed to unite fans during a politically tense time in the UK. Participants can request a Guinness certificate to commemorate their involvement.

San Benito Fire Department opens free citizens academy for residents

The San Benito Fire Department is launching a free citizens academy aimed at educating residents about emergency preparedness. Starting Thursday, July 16, individuals aged 18 and older can enroll. The program will cover fire operations, emergency medical services, and rescue techniques. Captain Jose Luis Perez Jr. emphasized the importance of this training, stating it could save lives. Participants will also learn practical skills such as using fire extinguishers and handling hoses. Interested residents can register by emailing ebautista@cityofsanbenito.com or calling 956-340-4618.

Brownsville city leaders say soundwaves from Starbase test caused loud noise, shaking

McAllen-Hidalgo-Reynosa International Bridge turns 100

Lawmakers and leaders from the Rio Grande Valley marked the 100th birthday Friday of the McAllen-Hidalgo International Bridge with a celebratory luncheon that included the mayor of Reynosa and consulates from several countries. And they shared stories of how this fabled crossing has impacted trade, tourism and their personal lives for several generations.

Movie Talk: Evil Dead Burn plus Top 4 movies of the year so far

Directed by Sebastien Vanicek Starring: Hunter Doohan, Luciane Buchanan, Souheila Yacoub ★★★☆☆ HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) -- A favorite film franchise can say a lot about a person. Someone whose identity revolves around Marvel movies is probably pretty typical. Harry Potter fans tend to fit a recognizable personality type. Then there are devotees of 'Alien', 'A Nightmare on Elm Street', 'The Lord of the

Brownsville Parks and Rec host free block parties, water slides, games

HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — The Brownsville Parks and Recreation Department is hosting its annual block parties for the community. According to a news release from city officials, the Mobile Recreation Unit block parties are officially back, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., with their first event on Friday, July 10, at Joe and Tony Oliveira Park,

Bestselling Author Giselle Mascarenhas to Hold Book Signing in McAllen, July 11th

On July 11, from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m., bestselling author Giselle Mascarenhas will hold a book signing at Barnes & Noble North Cross in McAllen. Her latest work, "She Forgot She Was Free," encourages readers to overcome emotional and mental barriers to embrace their true selves. Mascarenhas emphasizes that while Independence Day celebrates national freedom, many still feel trapped in their own lives. The event highlights local entrepreneurship and the literary scene in the Rio Grande Valley, with Mascarenhas recognized as a two-time Amazon bestselling author. Attendees can meet her, get books signed, and take photos.

How to Vote in Operación Triunfo? A Guide to Save Your Favorite Contestant

You have the power to decide who to save in Operación Triunfo USA, the new reality show from Telemundo that promises to revolutionize musical entertainment on Hispanic television. The program airs from Sunday to Friday at 7 p.m. ET and is searching for the next music star. Contestants live together 24/7 while receiving lessons in singing, acting, dancing, and other artistic disciplines at a coveted academy. Here we explain everything you need to know to vote and save your favorite. Who are the current nominees? Carla, Sergio, Karol. How to vote for the contestant you want to save? Go to the Operación Triunfo Voting Page through this link. Click on the photo of the contestant you want to save. Choose how many votes you want to give them, with a maximum of 10 votes per day. You must log in with your NBCUniversal or Google account. Click the 'Vote' button. Who can vote? Anyone over the age of 13 residing in the 50 states of the United States, the District of Columbia, or Puerto Rico can vote.

Alamo-area neighborhood seven signatures away from securing streetlights

Residents in an Alamo neighborhood are advocating for new streetlights due to safety concerns stemming from inadequate lighting. Located near Minnesota Road and North Tower Road, the area has been without streetlights for 15 years. Margarita Cardenas, a resident for 25 years, expressed worries about children playing outside in the dark. A petition initiated by a neighbor aims to gather 28 signatures, with 21 already collected. Hidalgo County Precinct 1 officials encourage residents to organize and gather the remaining signatures. If successful, the project will proceed to install streetlights, enhancing safety for the community.

A year after a South Padre Island crash, an Army veteran is still rebuilding his life

Matthew Johnson, an Army veteran from Laguna Vista, is still recovering from serious injuries sustained nearly a year ago when he was struck by an alleged drunk driver on South Padre Island. The accident occurred in May 2025 while he was crossing Padre Boulevard. Johnson was hospitalized for weeks at the Audie Murphy VA hospital in San Antonio, dealing with head injuries and shoulder damage. He described the trauma of the incident as more challenging than his experiences in Iraq. Now unable to work as a fisherman or electrician, he advocates against drunk driving. The accused driver, Linda Zenaida Vazquez, faces charges and is set to plead guilty in August 2026.

Itll always be Boca Chica: Federal committee rejects Cyber Beach name change proposal

Boca Chica Beach will retain its name after a federal committee unanimously rejected a proposal to rename it 'Cyber Beach.' The U.S. Board on Geographic Names dismissed the suggestion during a meeting, citing a lack of support, with nearly 2,780 emails against the change and only one in favor. Cameron County Judge Eddie Treviño Jr. stated that county officials were unaware of the proposal until months later and filed a formal objection in April. Local leaders are now collaborating with lawmakers to establish Boca Chica Beach's name federally, aiming to prevent future renaming attempts. Visitors expressed relief at the decision.

Historic Identity Preserved as Cameron County Retains Boca Chica Beach Name

Cameron County has confirmed that Boca Chica Beach will keep its official name following a unanimous vote by the U.S. Board on Geographic Names’ Domestic Names Committee on July 9, 2026. The decision came after strong local opposition to a proposed name change to "Cyber Beach," with 2,780 emails submitted against it. County officials expressed gratitude to community members who highlighted the issue and to those who opposed the renaming. Boca Chica Beach holds significant historical and cultural value for residents, and the committee's decision reflects the community's commitment to preserving its heritage.

Keep Boca Chica Beach

Boca Chica Beach, a site with deep cultural significance and a history dating back to at least 1936, is facing a proposal to be renamed 'Cyber Beach' by a Mississippi resident. This suggestion, linked to SpaceX and Tesla, has met significant opposition from local officials and residents who argue that the beach is a community landmark, not a corporate brand. The proposal was largely unnoticed until recently, raising concerns about public participation in such decisions. Local leaders, including Congressman Vicente Gonzalez, emphasize the importance of preserving the beach's historical name, which reflects the identity and heritage of South Texas.