Ready for the World Cup: Messi Returns with Penalty Goal in Argentina's Friendly Match

Lionel Messi is set for his sixth World Cup after recovering from a muscle injury. He played 20 minutes and scored a penalty in Argentina's 3-0 friendly victory over Iceland on Tuesday. Argentina, aiming for its fourth World Cup title, will debut against Algeria on June 16 in Kansas City. The match marked the first time Jordan-Hare Stadium hosted soccer. Messi, who came off the bench, assisted Lautaro Martínez, leading to a penalty that he converted. The team is optimistic but cautious as they prepare for the tournament, hoping for the recovery of goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez from a hand injury.

Defense Secretary Says in Guantanamo That It Is 'Reckless' for Cuba to Obtain Weapons to Attack the U.S.

U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth arrived Wednesday at the Naval Base in Guantanamo, Cuba, where he met with troops stationed on Cuban territory. His itinerary also included a visit to Tampa, Florida, where he would meet with units from Central Command (CENTCOM) as part of a tour to oversee operations in the region, according to an official U.S. government announcement. Although the reasons for the trip to both locations have not been specified, this move comes amid tensions between Havana and Washington, following a U.S. military helicopter crash in the Strait of Hormuz during a ceasefire with Iran. During the meeting, the Defense Secretary stated that he considers it 'reckless' for Cuba to attempt to acquire weapons to attack the U.S. military enclave in the east of the island, amid escalating bilateral tensions. 'It would be reckless for the Cuban government to try to acquire or gain access to weapons that could reach this base or U.S. territory,' Hegseth told the troops stationed at the controversial military enclave, the oldest that Washington maintains outside its borders and the only one in a communist country. According to the Pentagon chief, the island's leadership would expose itself 'to a type of confrontation that they not only do not want but also could not withstand' because 'no country in the world can match the military capability' of the U.S. 'We do not seek enemies or adversaries,' said Hegseth, who added that he hopes to soon be 'friends' with the 'leaders of the Cuban government.' He insisted that 'the future of Cuba is in the hands' of President Donald Trump and 'the Cuban leaders.' 'Whatever happens, the Department of War will be prepared and positioned for any possible contingency,' he said, according to a video posted on X by the Pentagon. The former Fox News host and close ally of Trump spoke with Marines after a morning training session in various areas of the enclave, including in front of a now-closed booth that once provided access to Cuban territory before both countries severed relations in the early 1960s, isolating the base from the rest of the island.

Inflation in the U.S.: Another Spike Expected in May Report Due to War with Iran

Inflation in the United States has risen for the third consecutive month, with the Consumer Price Index (CPI) reaching 4.2%, the highest level since early 2023. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported a 0.5% increase from April, largely driven by a 10.9% rise in energy prices in May. Energy costs accounted for over 60% of the overall monthly increase. While inflation has outpaced wage growth, which stands at 3.4%, oil prices have surged nearly 35% since the onset of the conflict with Iran. Gas prices remain about 40% higher than before the conflict, despite a recent dip in retail gasoline prices.

'Almost like a scary movie': Flesh-eating screwworm can infect humans

MCALLEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — As new cases of New World Screwworm continue to be reported, local health officials are reminding residents that the dangerous parasite poses a risk not only to livestock and pets but also to humans. Although human infections are rare, Hidalgo County Health Authority Dr. Ivan Melendez says the parasite can become

Tropical storm Cristina update

HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — Conditions will remain mostly hot and dry through the rest of this week, but changes may arrive as we head into the weekend and early next week. Tropical Storm Cristina is currently located along the Central American coastline (Tuesday, June 9, 2026), moving toward Guatemala City and weakening as it interacts with

San Benito appoints Carlos Yerena as interim city manager

HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — The City of San Benito named an interim city manager during a special commission meeting on Tuesday, according to a spokesperson from the city. Carlos Yerena was appointed as interim city manager and is expected to begin immediately. On June 3, an agenda shared via the city's website stated that former city manager

Made in the 956: Donna native helps protect the San Antonio Spurs

Roy Padilla, a native of Donna, Texas, is part of the San Antonio Spurs security team, gaining firsthand experience during the NBA Finals. He has been with the team since 2018, traveling with them for practices, games, and public events. Padilla, who has a law enforcement background dating back to 1980, previously served as the assistant police chief in Pharr and police chief for Donna ISD. Excited about the Finals, he emphasizes the importance of staying alert and focused. Padilla remains connected to his roots in the Rio Grande Valley, expressing pride in his hometown of Donna.

Texas A & M AgriLife launches screwworm task force to protect cattle industry

The Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service has initiated a task force to combat the spread of New World screwworms, which have recently been detected in New Mexico. Dr. Phillip Kaufman, a veterinary entomologist, is spearheading the initiative aimed at protecting Texas's cattle industry. The task force will develop training programs to ensure proper inspection and treatment of cattle to prevent the parasite's spread. Kaufman mentioned that the plan will be finalized by the end of the week and submitted to the animal health commission for further action, including training additional personnel in affected areas.

Largest ICE detention facility wasted millions and put detainees at risk, report finds

A federal report highlights severe mismanagement at Camp East Montana, the largest ICE detention facility in the U.S., located at Fort Bliss in El Paso, Texas. The Government Accountability Office found unsafe conditions that contributed to the deaths of three detainees within six months, including a Cuban migrant whose death investigation was compromised due to missing evidence. The facility, which opened in August 2022, failed to meet required standards, lacked adequate medical care, and wasted millions of taxpayer dollars on unnecessary services. The Department of Homeland Security has since replaced the contractor managing the facility to improve conditions.

Edinburg man pleads guilty in drive-by shooting death of 6-year-old girl

Daniel Guzman Flores, an Edinburg resident, has pleaded guilty to murder in the drive-by shooting death of 6-year-old Yvon Adele Medeles on February 23, 2021. The shooting occurred during a neighborhood dispute while Medeles was watching TV at her home on Valencia Avenue near Mission. Flores faces a potential prison sentence ranging from 15 to 99 years. He is one of four men arrested in connection with the incident, with co-defendants receiving various sentences, including life imprisonment for one. Flores's sentencing is scheduled for August 6, 2026.

Consumer Reports: What to buy in June 2026

June is expected to be a lucrative month for shoppers, with early summer sales from Amazon and other retailers providing opportunities to save ahead of the holiday season. Consumer Reports highlights that it's a prime time for Father's Day gifts, with sales starting early in the month. Popular gift ideas include cordless drills and compatible smartwatches. This year, Amazon's Prime Day is anticipated to occur earlier than usual, featuring significant discounts on items like Ring doorbells and kitchen appliances. Additionally, early Fourth of July sales may emerge before the month ends, making June a great time for deals.

US strikes Iran after Trump blames Tehran for downing Army helicopter

The U.S. military conducted strikes on Iran after President Trump accused Tehran of downing an Army helicopter near the Strait of Hormuz. The U.S. Central Command described the strikes as a proportional response to Iranian aggression. Iranian officials vowed retaliation, stating that foreign military forces near their territory are at risk. The incident escalated tensions following a two-month ceasefire and recent exchanges of fire between Iran and Israel. Meanwhile, a U.S. drone boat successfully rescued two aviators after the helicopter crash, marking a first for the military. The situation continues to impact global energy prices and regional stability.

Weslaco among RGV teams to qualify for 7-on-7 state tournament

The Weslaco Panthers have secured a spot in the state 7-on-7 football tournament, scheduled for the last week of June in College Station. They achieved this by defeating PSJA in their qualifying match. Players expressed their excitement about competing against top teams in Texas. Running back Malachi Rodriguez emphasized the satisfaction of their hard work paying off, while quarterback Guadalupe Granados noted the team's focus and confidence as they prepare. This marks the second state qualification for defensive back Enrique Rodriguez, who highlighted the effort put in by the team. Port Isabel and PSJA North will also face off in a scrimmage this week.

Cleanup underway for invasive plant species at San Benito resaca trail

Valley mariachi students perform at Carnegie Hall

Texas teen who fatally stabbed track athlete at school meet found guilty and sentenced to prison

A Texas teenager, Karmelo Anthony, was found guilty of murder and sentenced to 35 years in prison for fatally stabbing 17-year-old track athlete Austin Metcalf during a high school meet in April 2025. The jury rejected Anthony's self-defense claims, concluding that he was the aggressor in the confrontation that escalated over Anthony's refusal to leave Metcalf's team's tent. The trial attracted significant attention, partly due to social media discussions framing the incident racially. Both teens were from Frisco, Texas, and had no prior acquaintance. The case highlighted issues of accountability and community standards.

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.

House passes $70B bill to fund immigration enforcement for 3 years, sending to Trump

The House of Representatives passed a bill allocating nearly $70 billion for immigration enforcement, which now awaits President Trump's signature. The legislation, approved by a narrow vote of 214-212, aims to fund the Department of Homeland Security and its agencies for three years, supporting Trump's deportation agenda. The bill includes $38 billion for Immigration and Customs Enforcement, $26 billion for Border Patrol, and $5 billion for unforeseen costs. Democrats opposed the bill, criticizing it as a 'slush fund for ICE' without necessary reforms. The funding follows a lengthy standoff in Congress and is seen as crucial for Trump's immigration policies.

Candidates make their final push for the TSC Place 1 seat

The runoff election for the Texas Southmost College Place 1 Trustee seat is approaching its conclusion, with early voting ending on June 9 and Election Day set for June 13. The candidates are J.J. De Leon, a former board member advocating for transparency and community representation, and incumbent Adela Garza, who emphasizes the college's growth and readiness to meet workforce demands. De Leon argues for necessary change, while Garza believes in the college's current trajectory. The elected trustee will serve a six-year term, representing the community's interests.

La Grulla shelter steps up screwworm prevention as parasite cases increase in Texas

The Pawradise Dog Sanctuary in La Grulla is enhancing its screwworm prevention measures as cases of the parasite increase in Texas, particularly with a confirmed case in La Salle County. Owner Gloria Gonzalez noted that many animals arriving at the shelter have skin injuries, making them vulnerable to infections. She uses a medicated spray to treat open wounds and has intensified cleaning efforts at her facility. Nearby, the Rio Grande City animal control is also vigilant, having reported cases of animals with maggots, although recent tests showed they were negative for screwworm. Community cooperation is essential to combat this issue.