Community

UTRGV Student Joins Operación Triunfo USA Music Competition

José Ángel Fernández, a UTRGV student from McAllen, has secured a place on the music competition show Operación Triunfo USA. As a psychology major with a minor in music technology, he aims to pursue a career in music. Fernández expressed that the opportunity to grow as an artist and connect with others through music motivated him to audition. Contestants will live together in 'The Academy,' receiving training from industry professionals and performing weekly. The show premieres on July 7 at 7/6 p.m. CDT on Telemundo and Peacock. He hopes to inspire other aspiring musicians with his journey.

KRGV (NBC 5) · Jul 6, 2026

Harlingen moves toward dark sky lighting rules for homes and businesses

Harlingen is moving towards implementing dark sky lighting regulations for homes and businesses after city commissioners approved a resolution of intent. This initiative aims to reduce light pollution by requiring new constructions and future light replacements to use fixtures that direct light downwards. District 2 Commissioner Daniel Nemecio Lopez proposed the idea, emphasizing its benefits for the community and wildlife. Changes will be phased in gradually as existing lights are replaced, allowing homeowners and businesses to transition at their own pace. The next step involves drafting an ordinance, which will be discussed at the upcoming commissioner meeting.

KRGV (NBC 5) · Jul 6, 2026

Back-to-school fair in Mission to offer free school supplies, health screenings

Hidalgo County Precinct 3, in collaboration with Driscoll Health Plan, is organizing a free back-to-school fair in Mission on July 17 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Veterans Memorial Pavilion, located at 300 South Inspiration Road. Families can receive free school supplies, immunizations, health screenings, assistance with healthcare applications, free haircuts, and access to community resources. It is important for students to be present to obtain these services and supplies. For further details, contact the Precinct 3 Community Outreach Division at 956-205-7002 or via email at crc3@co.hidalgo.tx.us.

Medal of Honor Monday: Army Sgt. Thomas Alexander Baker Jr.

Army Sgt. Thomas Alexander Baker Jr. was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor for his valor during the Battle of Saipan in World War II. Born on July 25, 1916, in Troy, New York, Baker enlisted in the Army in 1935 and served with the 105th Infantry Regiment. He played a crucial role in repelling a massive Japanese banzai charge on July 6-7, 1944. Despite being seriously wounded, he continued to fight, ultimately sacrificing his life to protect his comrades. His bravery led to the elimination of numerous enemy soldiers, and he was found at his post, pistol in hand, with eight Japanese soldiers dead nearby.

Honoring Flood Victims At Kerrville Remembrance & Resilience Ceremony

Governor Greg Abbott commemorated the 119 lives lost in Kerr County during last year's Fourth of July floods at the Symphony of the Hills Remembrance & Resilience Ceremony. The event marked the one-year anniversary of the tragedy, celebrating community strength and unity. Abbott emphasized the importance of remembering the victims, who were more than just names, and acknowledged the resilience shown by the Kerr County residents throughout the recovery process. He also highlighted the significance of the 250th anniversary of American independence, connecting it to the values of liberty and community support. Local officials and families attended the ceremony.

Arturo Chapa 1936 – 2026

Arturo Chapa, a cherished member of the McAllen community, passed away on July 1, 2026, at the age of 89. Born in Dr. Gonzalez, Mexico, he immigrated to the U.S. at age 9 and became a dedicated educator and businessman. Chapa taught at La Joya ISD and later at Pan American University, inspiring many students. He founded Arturo Chapa Realty, serving families in the Rio Grande Valley for nearly 50 years. He is survived by his wife Yolanda, daughters Liza and Luci, and grandsons Ben and Josh. Visitation is scheduled for July 6, with a funeral mass on July 7 at Our Lady of Sorrows Church in McAllen.

KRGV (NBC 5) · Jul 6, 2026

Volunteers clean up beach at South Padre Island following Fourth of July festivities

Following the Fourth of July celebrations, a beach cleanup took place at South Padre Island on Sunday, organized by the South Texas Surfrider Foundation. Approximately 30 volunteers gathered to remove litter left from the festivities. This annual event aims to address the significant amount of trash typically found after the holiday. Annie Zyler, chair of the foundation, noted that this year was particularly messy. The volunteers collected over 100 pounds of trash, with an expectation to reach 300 pounds by the end of the day, contributing to a larger nationwide cleanup initiative.

Telemundo McAllen (KTLM) · Jul 5, 2026

Two Babies Born in the Rio Grande Valley During the 250th Anniversary of the U.S.

On July 4, 2026, two families in the Rio Grande Valley celebrated the births of their babies during the 250th anniversary of U.S. Independence. Olivia was born first at 9:41 AM at the South Texas Health System (STHS) McAllen Maternity Center, weighing 6 pounds 12 ounces and measuring 21.2 inches. She arrived several days early, sharing her birthday with a historic national celebration. Later, at 11:09 AM, Carlos was born at the STHS Edinburg Maternity Center, weighing 6 pounds 1 ounce and measuring 19.2 inches. Both births coincided with Independence Day festivities, making their arrivals even more special for their families.

Telemundo McAllen (KTLM) · Jul 4, 2026

Fireworks, parades, and plenty of heat: Celebrating the 250th anniversary of the U.S. in photos

On July 4, 2026, the United States celebrated its 250th anniversary with parades, barbecues, and fireworks across the nation. Despite a heatwave affecting many states, festivities continued unabated. In Washington D.C., the 'Salute to America 250' event featured skydivers landing with a giant American flag, while the Great American State Fair drew thousands. Major celebrations included a boat parade in New York and a naturalization ceremony for new citizens in Virginia. President Donald Trump delivered a speech, emphasizing the significance of the anniversary amid a politically divided climate. Fireworks in D.C. were touted as the largest in history.

'We're ready to welcome another 20,000': McAllen prepares for biggest Mexico watch party yet

MCALLEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — The city of McAllen is preparing for its largest World Cup watch party yet as officials expect nearly 20,000 soccer fans to gather at La Cancha on Sunday to cheer on Mexico. The anticipated crowd comes after more than 12,000 fans packed the McAllen Convention Center during Mexico's victory over Ecuador,

Discounts on fireworks ahead of July 4th festivities

HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — Fireworks stands in the Rio Grande Valley are prepared to celebrate big for America's 250th anniversary. ValleyCentral spoke with Jonathan Villanueva, a sales representative at a firework stand location on Business 83 and Milano Road in Weslaco. With Independence Day right around the corner, Villanueva said that he and his team

Surfrider Foundation invites volunteers to beach cleanup after 4th of July

HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — After the Fourth of July, beaches are left dirty, covered in trash and plastic. Therefore, the Surfrider Foundation invites volunteers to participate in its "Dirtiest Beach Day of the Year" beach cleanup to help remove trash before it reaches the ocean. The foundation has a chapter in South Texas, which will

Finally Married! Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce Celebrate Wedding at Madison Square Garden

Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce are officially married. Their wedding took place on Friday night at Madison Square Garden, confirmed by Swift's publicist. The star-studded ceremony featured Swift's brother as the 'man of honor' and Kelce's brother Jason as the best man. Fans gathered outside in sweltering heat, hoping to catch a glimpse of the couple. Celebrity guests included Camila Cabello, Hugh Grant, and Kareem Hunt. The event was tightly controlled, with no phones allowed inside. Swift and Kelce also made headlines by donating $26 million to 20 charities before their wedding, supporting communities linked to their lives.

After losing his family in the earthquakes in Venezuela, this boy received an emotional message from Ronaldo

Andrés Mieles, a 10-year-old Venezuelan boy who was rescued from the rubble after the recent earthquakes, is facing a tough recovery after losing his parents and his 17-year-old brother in the tragedy. Additionally, due to severe injuries sustained during the disaster, doctors had to amputate his right leg. According to his uncle Alexander, who now cares for him along with an aunt, Andrés was trapped under the debris before being rescued. The boy survived because he had left his apartment to play soccer with a friend when the disaster struck. However, nine days after the tragedy, family members have not yet informed the boy that his parents and brother have died. His uncle recounted the deep bond he has developed with the boy during this difficult process. 'He told me,

Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce Donate $26 Million to Charity Before Their Wedding

Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce have donated $26 million to various charities ahead of their wedding at Madison Square Garden this Friday. The contributions were distributed among 20 local and national organizations, many of which have strong ties to the couple. While the donation announcement did not mention the wedding, a law enforcement official confirmed the event's security plans. Notable beneficiaries include the Food Bank For NYC and the Rhode Island Community Food Bank. Swift and Kelce, who have been dating since 2023, have a history of charitable giving, with Swift previously donating to food banks during her Eras Tour.

‘McDonald’s Hospital,’ the refuge for pets rescued from the earthquakes

A McDonald's in Venezuela has transformed into an emergency shelter for pets affected by recent earthquakes. After two devastating tremors on June 24, Gabriela Alves found her missing dog, Buddy, at the restaurant, which has become a hub for rescuing lost animals in Caraballeda. The makeshift facility, dubbed 'McDonald's Hospital,' is staffed by over 70 volunteers, including veterinarians and medical personnel, who have treated numerous animals and humans. Many families, like Alves, are desperately searching for their pets amidst the rubble. The initiative has provided hope and support in the wake of the disaster, which claimed over 2,595 lives.

McAllen secures 26 acres for recreation park with ambitious design plans

McALLEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — The city of McAllen purchased 26 acres of land for a proposed recreation project. The land sits across the street from the Lark Community Center on the city's north side. The city secured the property earlier this year. McAllen City Manager Isaac Tawil says a project like this has been requested by

Behind the Flavor: Michael’s Burger’s and More

HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) -- On this week’s all-new episode of Behind the Flavor, food vlogger and host Ismael Martinez returns to his hometown of San Juan to highlight Michael’s Burger’s and More. Owner Andres Rayon and his team have been serving the community with some of the heartiest and freshest food for more than two years. Rayon began his career in the food service industry