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NationalColombia: Unusual Attempt to Suspend Gustavo Petro Fails Days Before Elections
BOGOTÁ, Colombia – An unusual attempt to provisionally suspend Colombian President Gustavo Petro caused a stir on Wednesday, just eleven days before the second round of elections in which his successor will be chosen between Abelardo de la Espriella and leftist Iván Cepeda. The decision, a precautionary measure lacking legal grounds, was made by Gloria Arizabaleta, the president of the House of Representatives' Commission on Investigation and Accusation, from the same party as the president, the Historical Pact, due to Petro's alleged participation in the current political campaign to support Cepeda, despite being legally prohibited from doing so. The precautionary measure, which had never been taken in Colombia and aimed to expedite the total suspension of the president, failed after Arizabaleta revoked the decision and filed a new order that must be voted on by all members of the Commission on Investigation and Accusation. "I have not intervened in politics, and I have made that clear," Petro stated at the United Nations Security Council in New York, where he chaired a debate on seeking solutions for peace in the Middle East. The president asserted that the attempt to suspend him is due to "having a different thought" and defended that being president does not strip him of his "fundamental rights," which is understood as a reference to his right to comment on the elections.
CommunityCity 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.
HealthFather, son share successful kidney transplant story at DHR Health
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — The DHR Health Transplant Institute held an event on Tuesday highlighting the story of a successful kidney transplant between a father and son. After facing kidney disease and challenges waiting for a transplant, Luis F. Gonzalez received a kidney transplant from his son, Ivan Gonzalez. Ivan said it took him less
BusinessPharr EDC Launches Trade & Tech Initiative with “Restro Tech” Roundtable, June 22nd
The Pharr Economic Development Corporation (Pharr EDC) is hosting a Trade & Tech Roundtable on June 22nd at the Pharr Global Business Hub. In collaboration with the UTRGV Entrepreneurship and Commercialization Center and Resto Tech, the event aims to discuss the impact of artificial intelligence and technology on the restaurant industry. Industry leaders will share insights on innovation and automation, highlighting Dairy Queen's success story in Pharr. The initiative seeks to connect businesses with resources and experts to enhance efficiency and profitability in a digital marketplace. Registration is encouraged for this informative session.
BusinessInflation heats up as Valley gas prices rise again
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — As inflation rises to its highest level in three years, the Rio Grande Valley is seeing prices at the pump jump sharply. New data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics released on Wednesday shows the Consumer Price Index (CPI) jumped 4.2% in May compared to last year. That is the highest
SportsHow to Watch Mexico and South Africa in the 2026 World Cup on Telemundo
The soccer excitement begins with the match between Mexico and South Africa in the FIFA World Cup 2026 this Thursday, June 11. The Mexico City Stadium will host the teams from Group A as they kick off the battle for the 2026 World Cup trophy. You can watch the match at 3 PM ET / 2 PM CT on Telemundo and Peacock. Remember that Telemundo will bring you most of the 104 matches of the 2026 World Cup live and in Spanish.
PoliticsAbbott Orders PUC and ERCOT to Protect Consumers from Data Center Power Costs
Governor Greg Abbott has instructed the Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUC) and the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) to implement measures that protect residential customers from the financial impact of data center expansions. In his directive, Abbott emphasized that data centers should not only minimize costs for residential electricity users but also conserve water resources. He mandated that data centers cover the costs of necessary electric infrastructure and urged the PUC and ERCOT to propose further protective actions by July 2026. Additionally, Abbott plans to collaborate with the Legislature to establish regulations ensuring data centers enhance Texas' electric capacity responsibly.
NationalTrump Promises Total U.S. Support if Right-Wing Candidate Wins in Colombia
WASHINGTON – President Donald Trump promised on Wednesday that Colombia will have "the full support and strength" of the United States if far-right candidate Abelardo de la Espriella wins the presidential runoff. Trump, who announced his electoral support for De la Espriella last week, emphasized in a message on his Truth Social platform that the Colombian candidate has his "total and unconditional backing" heading into the second round on June 21. "The results of these elections are crucial for the future of Colombia and its relationship with the United States, which, if Abelardo wins, will have the full support and strength of the United States thanks to his competence and love for his country," the Republican wrote.
HealthPrivate Water Well Screenings Set for June in South Texas
The Texas Well Owner Network will conduct private water well screenings in South Texas from June 22-30. Residents in Robstown, Sinton, and Refugio will pay $15 per sample, while others can test for free. The screenings will check for contaminants like E. coli and arsenic. Sample drop-off locations include Robstown, Falfurrias, Kingsville, and more, with specific times for each area. Results meetings are scheduled for June 25 in various locations, including Robstown and Sinton, and a virtual meeting for Zapata and Rio Grande City on June 30. For details, contact Joel Pigg at Texas A&M AgriLife.
EducationValley students get hands-on experience at TSC summer camp
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — Middle and high school students from across the Rio Grande Valley gathered in Brownsville on Tuesday for a Regional P-Tech Expansion Summer Camp. Over 100 students from about 13 Valley school districts had an opportunity to explore TSC's programs. Through hands-on activities, students gained a better understanding of the career path
Public SafetyEdinburg man charged with cockfighting
McALLEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — The Hidalgo County Sheriff’s Office raided a cockfight near Monte Alto last week. At 2:29 p.m. on June 1, the Texas Department of Public Safety contacted the Sheriff’s Office about suspicious activity near the intersection of Nittler Road and Jesus Flores Road northwest of Monte Alto. Troopers said a Department of
Public Safety40 Years in Prison for Texas Duo Behind Illegal Pyramid Scheme
LaShonda and Marlon Moore, a couple from Frisco, Texas, have been sentenced to 40 years in prison each for running an illegal pyramid scheme called 'Blessings in No Time' (BINT). Convicted on charges of conspiracy, wire fraud, and money laundering, they defrauded over 10,000 victims during the COVID-19 pandemic, amassing losses exceeding $30 million. The Moores falsely promised participants 800% returns on their investments of $1,400, exploiting trust within the African American community. The case was investigated by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the Secret Service, and the IRS Criminal Investigation Division, highlighting the severe consequences of such fraudulent schemes.
WeatherTropics may bring next round of rains
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — The National Hurricane Center on Wednesday morning indicated a 10% chance of tropical development in the Bay of Campeche or the Gulf in the next seven days. This would be from the remnants of Tropical Storm Cristina after crossing over Mexico from the Pacific Ocean. The likelihood of any storm development
Sports2026 World Cup: The Biggest and Most Uncertain Tournament in History Kicks Off
From a strictly sporting perspective, the 2026 World Cup has all the ingredients to captivate from start to finish during six weeks of action in the United States, Mexico, and Canada. Telemundo is the Home of the World Cup. Here is Lionel Messi for his final grand act, almost certainly his last farewell on a stage of this magnitude, with an Argentina that aims to be the first team to defend the title since 1962. Cristiano Ronaldo has arrived to conquer the only major trophy that has eluded him in a career full of records with Portugal. Brazil boasts its five titles, but the last one dates back to 2002. They will try to end the drought under the leadership of Italian Carlo Ancelotti, who seeks to be the first foreign coach in World Cup history to lead a team to victory.
NationalEl Salvador Opens the World’s Largest Aircraft Maintenance Center
On April 16, 2026, President Nayib Bukele inaugurated Hangar 7 in San Luis Talpa, El Salvador, marking AEROMAN as the world's largest aircraft maintenance center at a single location. This expansion enhances El Salvador's status as a global aviation hub and is expected to drive investment and job creation in the aerospace sector. The project, completed in 15 months, was delivered on time and within budget. Bukele emphasized the significance of this development for the country's economy and invited both national and international companies to invest in El Salvador, highlighting political stability and legal certainty as key factors for business growth.
NationalU.S. Begins Revoking Visas for Tourists Who Come to Have Babies
HOUSTON – The U.S. Department of State has started revoking visas for individuals who have come to the country on tourist visas to give birth. This was announced on Wednesday, June 10, as the Department revealed it has launched an offensive against individuals and international networks involved in what is known as 'birth tourism,' a practice where foreign nationals seek to enter the U.S. on visitor visas primarily to give birth so their children can obtain U.S. citizenship. According to the federal agency, a U.S. embassy in West Africa detected a sophisticated network of over 100 foreigners who allegedly used fraudulent documents and 'visa facilitators' to obtain travel permits.
NationalFIFA Reverses Course: Now Allowing Bottles, but with Specific Rules
FIFA has reversed its policy for fans and will now allow them to bring their bottles into certain stadiums during the 2026 World Cup, adjusting a rule that previously prohibited spectators from entering with reusable bottles at the 16 tournament venues in North America, including some with little or no shade. In a social media post, FIFA stated that fans will be allowed to bring a factory-sealed, soft plastic, disposable water bottle of up to 20 ounces to any match held in the United States or Canada. In a video released by FIFA, Operations Director Heimo Schirgi noted that rigid reusable bottles will not be allowed for 'safety reasons.'
NationalCan You Bring Portable Chargers on a Plane? Here's What You Need to Know Before Your Next Flight
Travelers planning to fly this summer should be aware of updated regulations regarding portable chargers, particularly lithium-ion battery packs. These chargers must be carried in carry-on luggage, as they are prohibited in checked bags. Passengers can take up to two power banks with a capacity of 100 watt-hours without airline approval. Larger batteries, between 100 and 160 watt-hours, require prior consent. Recent incidents of lithium battery fires have prompted stricter airline policies. Once on board, chargers must be stored in accessible locations and cannot be used to charge devices during the flight. Always check with your airline for specific rules.
EducationJulian Alvarez Calls for Greater Financial Literacy and Banking Career Awareness
Julian Alvarez, Executive Vice President of Lone Star National Bank, emphasized the importance of financial literacy and awareness of banking careers during the launch of the second year of the Bank On INT paid internship program in Edinburg. This initiative, a collaboration between the City of Edinburg, the Edinburg Economic Development Corporation, UTRGV, and regional banks, aims to expose students to banking careers. Alvarez noted that high schools lack programs focused on financial services, limiting students' career exposure. The program provides valuable internships for students, helping them connect academic knowledge with workforce needs and develop professional skills before graduation.
NationalColombia Temporarily Suspends President Petro Until After Elections
Colombia's Congress has temporarily suspended President Gustavo Petro until June 21, coinciding with the presidential runoff election. This decision, made by Gloria Arizabaleta, chair of the Accusation Commission, aims to prevent Petro from participating in political activities during the campaign. The suspension is based on allegations of his involvement in the electoral process, which is considered a serious offense under Colombian law. Petro, currently in New York for a UN Security Council meeting, would be the first Colombian president to face such a suspension. The runoff will feature candidates Abelardo de la Espriella and Iván Cepeda.