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NationalSpaceX sets new date for 13th test flight after engines failed to ignite
SpaceX has rescheduled the 13th test flight of its Starship rocket for Monday, July 20, with a launch window opening at 5:45 p.m. This follows a failed attempt on July 16, when the launch was aborted due to two engines not igniting. To ensure a successful flight, SpaceX CEO Elon Musk announced that the malfunctioning engines will be replaced. The upcoming test flight will see Starship launched from Texas on a mission that will take it halfway around the world.
BusinessConsumer Reports: Home gym for cheap
Creating a home gym can be a cost-effective way to stay fit without a gym membership. Consumer Reports highlights essential equipment for home workouts, emphasizing adjustable dumbbells as a smart investment. These allow users to easily change weights, saving both money and space. Top-rated options include the NordicTrack 55-pound and Core Home Fitness 50-pound dumbbells, both priced under $400. Resistance bands are another affordable choice, effective for strength training and suitable for various fitness levels, with Whatafit bands recommended at about $28 for five. Additionally, workout headphones like Apple AirPods Pro and Beats Fit Pro are suggested for an enhanced experience, while cautioning against certain HomeProGym bands that may be unsafe.
BusinessCity of Alamo offering grants up to $15, 000 for new, local businesses
The City of Alamo is providing financial assistance to support the launch of new local businesses. There are two funding options: a start-up grant and a revolving loan fund, both available exclusively to Alamo residents. This season, the Alamo Economic Development Corporation will award five grants ranging from $2,500 to $15,000 for businesses that have a commercial property. To receive reimbursement, qualifying businesses must submit an invoice. Mayor J.R. Garza emphasized the importance of generating sales tax and noted that applications will be reviewed by the EDC's board of directors.
CommunityHarlingen to repair 71 streets as part of 2027 road improvement program
Harlingen city commissioners have approved a plan to repair 71 streets as part of the 2027 road improvement program. The initiative will cover all five city districts, with work expected to start in October after the completion of this year's projects. City Engineer Roberto Hernandez noted that the city will utilize its own equipment and staff to minimize costs, maintaining a budget of approximately $1.5 million. The funding comes from a fee on utility bills, and streets are selected based on traffic counts and road conditions, focusing on those with significant issues like potholes. The repairs are anticipated to take 8 to 12 months.
Public SafetyHouston man killed in Starr County crash
A 67-year-old man from Houston lost his life in a two-vehicle accident in Starr County on Friday afternoon. The incident occurred around 1:40 p.m. on FM 755, south of FM 1017, near La Gloria. A silver Dodge Ram towing a trailer was traveling north when a gray Dodge 1500 heading south crossed into the northbound lane. The driver of the Dodge Ram attempted to avoid a collision, but the Dodge 1500 struck the trailer. The passenger in the Dodge 1500, Noelio Garza Peña, was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver of the Dodge 1500 sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was hospitalized, while the Dodge Ram driver did not require medical attention. The Texas Department of Public Safety is investigating the incident.
BusinessMendez Avenue repaving project set to begin in Roma
The city of Roma is set to begin repaving Mendez Avenue, a crucial route for heavy trucks at the port of entry. The existing asphalt is deteriorating due to the increased traffic, which Congressman Henry Cuellar noted has surged by 600%. The city is investing $150,000 and utilizing a nearly $500,000 grant for the project. Cuellar emphasized that the rise in truck traffic correlates with job creation and economic growth. The repaving work is expected to commence within three months and will take approximately six to eight months to finish.
Public Safety'It came to me as a spear': McAllen man survives bed frame crashing through windshield
PHARR, Texas (ValleyCentral) — What was supposed to be a relaxing weekend trip to South Padre Island turned into a terrifying near-death experience for a McAllen police officer after a steel bed frame flew through his windshield while traveling on the expressway. John Montemayor said he was driving about 65 mph behind a van when,
WeatherSaharan dust and dry conditions continue this weekend
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — The weekend is finally here, and good news: the forecast shows dry skies with no rain in sight. Also, the weather won’t be getting in the way of any plans. However, if you were hoping the Saharan dust had wrapped up its visit, not quite yet. While a break is on the horizon, we’ll have to wait a bit
NationalBridges and a water plant impacted: US completes seventh night of attacks against Iran
The U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) reported that American forces completed their seventh consecutive night of attacks against Iran, concluding operations at 9:30 PM Eastern Time. The airstrikes targeted Iranian military logistics, surveillance facilities, and maritime capabilities, utilizing fighter jets, drones, and naval vessels. CENTCOM holds Iran responsible for escalating tensions and maintains a naval blockade on Iranian ports. Iranian officials reported significant casualties from the attacks, including damage to bridges and electrical infrastructure in Hormozgan province. Additionally, a tower at Chabahar port was destroyed, which the U.S. claims was used for military surveillance. Iran has retaliated with missile and drone strikes on U.S. targets in the region.
Public SafetyMan accused of sending intimate photos through dead persons's social media accounts: Police
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — A man was taken into custody for allegedly sending intimate photos through a deceased person's social media accounts, according to the Donna Police Department. On June 15, Jose Lara Jr. was charged with harassment, two counts of online impersonation, computer security breach and unlawful disclosure of intimate visual material. According to a
Public SafetyCBP officers arrest man wanted in Combes shooting investigation
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) -- U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers arrested a man with multiple warrants out of Combes. German Tanguma was arrested on Thursday while attempting to enter the U.S. at the Hidalgo International Port of Entry. The Combes Police Department said Tanguma was wanted for his alleged involvement in a shooting that occurred
Public SafetyBrownsville Police Arrest Suspect in Multiple Downtown Robberies
Brownsville police arrested a man linked to multiple thefts in the downtown area early on July 17, 2026. Officers from the specialized Task Force against Theft apprehended 35-year-old Oscar Leonardo Urbina around 12:14 a.m. after a thorough investigation. Urbina faces seven felony charges for commercial burglary and one charge for residential burglary, which is classified as a second-degree felony. Authorities noted that his arrest is a significant step in addressing property crimes in Brownsville's commercial and historic district, where such incidents have been on the rise. He is now in custody awaiting legal proceedings and bail assignment.
PoliticsFederal case dropped against former Hidalgo County District Clerk, state charges remain
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — Federal charges against former Hidalgo County District Clerk Omar Guerrero have been dropped by the U.S. Attorney’s Office of the Southern District of Texas. According to a criminal complaint, the order of dismissal was submitted on Thursday due to "reasons in the interest of justice." On Friday, the dismissal order was granted, according
NationalAt Trump's Direct Invitation, Sheinbaum Will Attend the World Cup Final
President Claudia Sheinbaum will attend the FIFA World Cup final on Sunday, following an invitation from U.S. President Donald Trump. The match will feature Argentina and Spain at Metlife Stadium in New York. Sheinbaum confirmed her attendance during a media event in Playa del Carmen, stating that Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney will also be present. She plans to travel on Saturday afternoon and return to Mexico on Monday morning. Additionally, she will hold a press conference on Saturday regarding sargassum, having previously given her ticket to the World Cup opener to an indigenous girl who plays soccer.
Public SafetyDPS Investigates Fatal Crash in Starr County
The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is investigating a fatal accident that occurred on Friday, July 17, 2026, in Starr County. The crash involved two pickup trucks on FM 755, south of FM 1017, around 1:40 p.m. A silver Dodge Ram towing a trailer was traveling north when a gray Dodge 1500, carrying a driver and a passenger, veered into oncoming traffic. The driver of the Ram swerved to avoid a head-on collision but could not prevent the gray truck from hitting the trailer. The passenger, 67-year-old Noelio Garza Peña from Houston, died at the scene. The driver of the gray truck was hospitalized with non-life-threatening injuries, while the driver of the Ram was unharmed. DPS officials are continuing their investigation.
Public SafetyMultiple agencies respond to house fires in Starr County
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) -- First responders from Starr and Hidalgo Counties are working to put out a fire that broke out in a community near Rio Grande City. The Starr County Sheriff's Office reported that the fire broke out on San Eulogio Street. Rio Grande City Fire Chief Manuel S. Muniz told ValleyCentral that the
Public SafetyTexas AG Issues Warning Against Flood-Related Scams and Price Gouging
Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has issued a warning to residents about potential scams and price gouging related to recent flooding in the state. He emphasized the importance of vigilance against fraudulent charities and illegal price increases during declared disasters. Paxton stated that it is unlawful for businesses or individuals to raise prices unreasonably during such times. He encourages anyone who suspects scams or price gouging to report them via his office's toll-free complaint line at (800) 621-0508. Additionally, he advised residents to verify charities before donating and to protect their personal information.
Public SafetyMajor vehicle crash closes road near La Gloria
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — The Starr County Sheriff's Office is on the scene of a major vehicle crash on North FM 755 by FM 1017 in La Gloria. According to a news release from the Texas Department of Transportation, FM 755 is currently closed between FM 2294 and FM 1017. Northbound traffic on FM 755 is
NationalCornyn Hails 10,000-Job Port Alpha Shipyard Coming to Brownsville
U.S. Senator John Cornyn announced that Saronic is investing over $3 billion to establish the Port Alpha Project at the Port of Brownsville. This initiative is expected to generate up to 10,000 jobs in the Rio Grande Valley and enhance the shipbuilding workforce in the region. Cornyn emphasized the importance of this investment for national security, especially in light of increasing threats from foreign adversaries. He expressed enthusiasm for Saronic's expansion in Texas, highlighting the state's potential for innovation in the maritime industry.
Public SafetyThe Death of Nahomi Rodríguez Remains a Mystery 10 Years After Disappearance
Nahomi Rodríguez, a 19-year-old from San Benito, mysteriously disappeared on this day in 2016 after leaving work. Months later, her remains were discovered in Río Hondo, Texas. Nine years later, Harlingen police are still investigating the case and urge the community to provide any information that could help solve it. On the day she vanished, security cameras captured her at a fast-food restaurant, where she was seen getting into a gray Ford Escape. Her last communication was a call to her mother, saying someone would take her home. Her identity was confirmed through dental records after her remains were found in April 2017.