Archive · 6298 stories · page 199 of 315
CommunitySea Turtle Inc. reports record breaking nesting season at South Padre Island
Sea Turtle Inc. has announced a record-breaking nesting season at South Padre Island, with 150 nests discovered, containing approximately 14,000 eggs. The organization credits its conservation efforts for this success, noting that it takes sea turtles around 12 to 15 years to mature. Dr. Amy Bonka, Chief Conservation Officer, emphasized the importance of ongoing efforts in turtle conservation, as the results are becoming evident. The hatching season is expected to begin as early as next week, following the typical timeline of about a month and a half after the eggs are laid.
HealthValley ranchers on alert as screwworm risk grows
Ranchers in the Rio Grande Valley are on high alert due to the proximity of New World screwworm cases in Uvalde County. Although no cases have been confirmed in Hidalgo County, local officials are coordinating with state and federal agencies to monitor the situation. Veterinarian Lucas Hinojosa recalls past outbreaks that severely affected cattle, leading to significant losses. Ranchers are advised to inspect their livestock daily for wounds and report any concerns to the Texas Animal Health Commission. The USDA is implementing measures, including quarantines and the release of sterile flies, to prevent the screwworm's spread. Public vigilance is crucial.
EducationEdinburg EDC Leads Launch of Second Year of Bank On INT Internship Program
The Edinburg Economic Development Corporation (EEDC) has officially launched the second year of the Bank On INT paid internship program, aimed at providing undergraduate students with practical experience in the banking sector. The program, initiated on June 5, 2026, involves a partnership between the City of Edinburg, EEDC, UTRGV, and several regional banks. Mayor Omar Ochoa emphasized the importance of this opportunity for students to gain real-world experience while earning a competitive salary. The initiative also aims to support workforce development and talent retention in the Rio Grande Valley, with local banks reporting successful placements of former interns into full-time roles.
HealthSecond Case of Screwworm Confirmed in South Texas
The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department reported the detection of a second case of the New World Screwworm. The finding was in Zavala County, about 100 miles southwest of San Antonio, involving a 30-day-old calf with an umbilical injury, according to a statement released Friday night. They are collaborating with the Texas Animal Health Commission, the Department of Agriculture, and other agencies to address the situation. They emphasized that early detection is crucial and it's important to report any suspicion of infestation in live animals. This is a developing story; check back for updates.
Public SafetyState Mobilizes Response Following New World Screwworm Detection
Governor Greg Abbott announced a disaster declaration for Zavala and Uvalde Counties after the detection of the New World Screwworm (NWS) in Texas. He emphasized the mobilization of state resources to combat this threat, including the acceleration of sterile fly production in Edinburg. The NWS is a parasitic fly that can harm livestock and wildlife. Abbott urged Texans to inspect their animals for wounds and report any suspected infestations to the Texas Animal Health Commission. The state is collaborating with federal partners to implement a containment strategy using the Sterile Insect Technique to eradicate the pest.
SportsWe're not enemies, it's just a sport: Sofía Vergara on the World Cup
LOS ANGELES – Colombian actress Sofía Vergara is making a strong call to the Hispanic community to embrace a historic World Cup that transcends racial, political, and religious differences, a message of unity she promotes as an ambassador for Telemundo. "This is a moment to have fun, to be happy, to have peace, to be companions, to be brothers... to have tolerance. We are not enemies in the world, it's just a sport," Vergara stated in an interview with EFE. The star of iconic series like the comedy "Modern Family" and Netflix's miniseries "Griselda" reflects on the intensity with which soccer is experienced in her native Colombia, an energy that is hard to replicate in the United States. "The passion, the energy, and what we have for that sport cannot be compared to what is felt in this country," she admits. However, she notes that the U.S. is gradually catching on to the Latin spirit for soccer, partly due to the fervor that the predominantly Hispanic community brings to a sport traditionally called "soccer." The massive wave of migrants has transformed the sports landscape, turning this major competition, which begins in Mexico on June 11 at Estadio Azteca, into a bridge that reconnects her with childhood memories. "When I think of the World Cup, I always think of how exciting it was when I lived in Colombia," she recalls. For Vergara, the World Cup taking place in Mexico, the U.S., and Canada is more than just a television sports event; it represents a ritual rooted in family heritage. "We always like to eat, shout, and fight. (The World Cup) is about being with family, having fun, and feeling the energy and excitement together," she confesses. Looking back, she reminisces about the 1994 World Cup held in the U.S., a golden era for Colombian soccer with figures like René Higuita and Carlos "El Pibe" Valderrama. "For us, they were gods, and every match, every emotion of that World Cup was incredible," she remembers. This year will be no different for Vergara, who will support the Colombian national team in their journey through the competition. "My favorite team has to be Colombia, of course. Plus, this year we have James Rodríguez, who seems to be in his last World Cup, and that will be very emotional for Colombians," she adds. As a Telemundo ambassador, the network that exclusively broadcasts the men's and women's national team matches in Spanish across the U.S. until 2030, Vergara advocates for experiencing the tournament with a Spanish accent, a key element in the current demographic context of the United States. "It's not the same in English. Yes, it's fine, but hearing the goal shout with the people we know... Our language, our roots, it's all ours. For me, the excitement of soccer as a Latino has to be in Spanish, without a doubt," she argues. Additionally, the Colombian takes advantage of the massive audience of a World Cup to promote a public health campaign called "Check: Detect the SOS," aimed at preventing diabetes, hypertension, and kidney failure among Hispanics through a urine test. "Latinos make up a huge number of people suffering from diabetes and high blood pressure. And those are the people at risk of kidney failure, stroke, and heart attack without knowing it," she warns. In a sport historically considered male-dominated, where women are increasingly making their mark, Vergara distances herself from any label as a sports role model, although she proudly applauds the rise and strength of female players. "I didn't grow up watching women play soccer... At first, I thought, 'Oh no, it's too rough for a woman,' but now I realize we can do it just as well. People love it; I think they enjoy watching women play soccer more than men," she concludes.
PoliticsGovernor Abbott Announces Latest Slate Of Appointments
Governor Greg Abbott has announced several appointments to various councils and committees aimed at improving health, safety, and industry in Texas. Notable appointments include Christine Cox and Brittany Henson to the Council on Cardiovascular Disease and Stroke, with terms expiring in 2031. The Quantum Initiative Advisory Committee will see new members like Victor Fishman and Lin Zhou, with terms ending in 2027. Additionally, a Task Force on Modernizing Manufacturing has been formed, including 13 members with terms expiring in 2027. Other appointments include reappointments to the Texas Industrialized Building Code Council and the Texas School Safety Center Board, focusing on safety and regulatory oversight.
NationalMaine Air National Guard Steps Up for Operation Epic Fury
The Maine Air National Guard's 101st Air Refueling Wing has played a crucial role in Operation Epic Fury, moving over 747,000 pounds of cargo and 312 passengers since the operation began. The unit has managed 302 cargo pieces, including hazardous materials and aircraft parts, while supporting 97 missions with various aircraft types. They processed 394 outbound shipments, totaling around 5,000 pounds. Additional personnel from five units joined to enhance operations, emphasizing teamwork and efficiency. Staff Sgt. Eric LeFave highlighted the importance of their work in supporting troops overseas, reflecting the commitment of the Air Force to mission success.
BusinessTexas Oil and Gas Upstream Jobs Increased by 400 in April
The Texas Workforce Commission reported a rise of 400 jobs in the upstream oil and gas sector for April 2026, marking two consecutive months of job growth since February. Total upstream employment reached 193,200, although this reflects a decline of 7,400 jobs, or 3.7%, compared to April 2025. The decrease in employment was linked to falling oil prices, but recent increases in prices and rig counts have led to a slight recovery. The Texas Oil & Gas Association emphasized the resilience of the workforce amid global uncertainties, aiming to maintain Texas's competitive edge in energy production.
BusinessBCIC’s Cori Peña Revisits Brownsville’s May 2026 Growth and Future Outlook
Cori Peña of the Brownsville Community Improvement Corporation (BCIC) reflected on the impact of May 2026, highlighting the conclusion of RGV Startup Week, which featured events for women entrepreneurs and a youth civic innovation summit. The month also marked the opening of Blueprint Lab, the region's first advanced prototyping space, aimed at fostering innovation and entrepreneurship. BCIC launched the BIG LIFT Program to support small businesses with grants for storefront improvements. Additionally, Brownsville saw a 6% increase in out-of-market visitors, contributing to a vibrant local economy. Upcoming events include Pride Month celebrations, emphasizing community unity.
Public Safety2 arrested, 39 migrants in custody after tractor-trailer fire on US 281
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — State troopers and Border Patrol agents arrested two people and detained 39 people believed to be in the country illegally after a human smuggling pursuit left a tractor-trailer in flames and shut down southbound U.S. 281 for hours. According to a news release from U.S. Customs and Border Protection, at approximately
HealthDHR Health Ophthalmologist Shares Facts about Cataracts
During Cataract Awareness Month, Dr. Jorge Montes, an ophthalmologist at DHR Health Eye Institute in McAllen, is raising awareness about cataracts. This eye condition affects around 24 million Americans, leading to cloudy and dim vision, especially in older adults. Dr. Montes emphasizes that nearly 70% of people will develop cataracts by age 75 due to natural aging processes. He encourages individuals experiencing vision changes to consult with an ophthalmologist for safe and effective treatment options, including corrective surgery. For appointments, contact DHR Health at (956) 362-2070.
NationalCritics Slam Massive Funding Injection for Trump's Deportation Agenda
Almost unconditionally, Congress is poised to provide a substantial injection of funds to the Department of Homeland Security, which will bolster President Donald Trump's mass deportation agenda for the remainder of his term in the White House. The nearly $70 billion package, approved by the Republican-controlled Senate in a midnight vote and now heading to the House of Representatives, has been labeled a 'rotten bill' by the Democratic leader and described as 'an ATM for ICE' by pro-immigrant advocates. For those who align with Trump's campaign promise to carry out the largest mass deportation operation in U.S. history, the plan virtually guarantees a continuous flow of money to execute the government's immigration enforcement operations, adding to the approximately $170 billion that Congress already approved for the department last summer as part of Trump's major tax cut plan. 'We will continue to arrest people, we will continue to detain people, and we will continue to deport people,' Trump’s border czar Tom Homan stated Friday to CBS News. He hinted that immigration enforcement raids are expected in New York City this summer. The congressional funding comes at a crucial time for the Republican president and his party as they face anxious voters ahead of the midterm elections. Approximately one in three adults in the U.S. knows someone affected by Trump's immigration operations, according to an AP-NORC poll conducted in April. As the U.S. celebrates its 250th anniversary, most say it is no longer a great place for immigrants. The congressional funding package is a scant dozen pages long and lacks any of the usual safeguards or guidelines typically required in legislation. It allocates $30 billion for Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations and nearly $20 billion for the Border Patrol and other items, prepaying the department's operations through 2029. 'Their options are limitless in terms of what they can do with this money,' said Vanessa Cardenas, executive director of America’s Voice, a long-standing immigrant advocacy organization. 'It’s hard to accept, as a taxpayer, that our dollars are going to this massive deportation machine while Americans struggle to cover healthcare costs, access food, and pay so much for gas.' The government has attempted to redirect the debate over its immigration operations by installing new leadership at Homeland Security following violent immigration enforcement scenes earlier this year and the shooting deaths of Americans Renee Good and Alex Pretti in Minneapolis. Instead of dramatic street raids, the government is working behind the scenes on measures that strip immigrant groups of their ability to remain in the U.S., eliminating Temporary Protected Status or making it harder to obtain permanent residency cards. The so-called 'dreamers,' young immigrants brought to the U.S. illegally as children, have reported delays in renewing their Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) status, exposing them to potential deportation. However, protests continue on U.S. streets, such as one held over detention conditions at the Delaney Hall center in New Jersey. At the same time, Homeland Security continues to hire more ICE agents — the agency will hold a job fair next month in Florida — builds more detention centers, and partners with countries around the world to accept people deported from the U.S. In a statement, the department asserted that Trump and Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin are 'fully focused on ensuring that the hardworking men and women' of ICE and Customs and Border Protection have full funding. It noted that the congressional package 'will ensure that our critical national security operations continue despite any Democratic attempts to take our great patriotic employees hostage in the future.' The power of money becomes a blank check. Typically, a congressional funding package would have hundreds of pages or more, with a variety of specific instructions on how the money can be spent and on what timelines. After all, Congress has the power of the purse and often uses that constitutional role to impose checks on the government. But after Democrats refused to fund the Department of Homeland Security earlier this year following the violence in Minnesota, Republicans responded by using the congressional budget resolution process to impose the package on their own, outside traditional appropriations channels. It is the same process both parties have used in the past, most recently with Trump's tax cut plan for 2025. 'There is not all this important oversight happening,' noted Bobby Kogan, a former staff member of the Senate Budget Committee and current member of the Center for American Progress think tank. Overnight, Senate Democrats worked to exercise that authority, introducing amendments to ensure Congress had a say in the process. Illinois Senator Dick Durbin, for example, tried to protect 'dreamers' from deportation while their DACA renewals are delayed. But all those efforts failed. Meanwhile, the government faces enormous pressure to fulfill its promise to ramp up deportations to around 1 million a year, after the figures from the Republican president's first year fell short of promises. Mike Howell, president of the Oversight Project, is one of the leaders of the Mass Deportation Coalition pushing the Trump administration to meet its promises. 'Everyone is talking about ICE getting another massive injection of money, and I don’t see it that way at all,' he said. 'It’s getting just enough money to stay alive.' 'We’re not asking them to keep going,' Howell said. 'We’re asking them to start.' Howell stated that there is little chance the Trump administration can meet the president's deportation goals unless it abandons its priority of going after what it calls 'the worst of the worst.' His group released a framework earlier this year proposing broader raids to arrest immigrants, particularly in workplaces. They also want the Trump administration to make it harder for immigrants in the U.S. to use the banking system, access social services, and obtain driver's licenses. Congressional Republicans have introduced bills addressing some of those issues. The government has ramped up its own rhetoric and recently launched a new website characterizing immigrants as 'aliens' — with outer space themes — and suggesting ways the White House is working to prevent those individuals from remaining in the U.S.
Public SafetyMan arrested, loaded gun and drugs seized at Elsa park
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — An Elsa man was arrested after police say they found him in a drug-free zone with a loaded gun, drugs and cash. Mauricio Rocha Jr, 24 of Elsa, faces the following charges: On Tuesday night, police came across a suspicious vehicle parked at Mario Leal Park after operating hours. Police identified
BusinessThey Want to Compensate Them: Neighbors of Azteca Stadium to Charge Over $125 for Parking
MEXICO CITY – Residents near Azteca Stadium in Mexico City are offering the QR code provided by the Coyoacán mayor's office to use their parking spaces on match days during the World Cup, with prices ranging from 800 to 2,200 pesos (over $125). "I have five spots on San León street, 2,200 pesos each per game if you're interested. I need you to send me a copy of your INE (official ID) and your car's registration, and I'll give you the code that the delegation provides. You pay me half to reserve and the other half on game day," says Leonardo during a tour conducted by EFE in the area surrounding the stadium. The decision to disable parking at the venue on game days has led residents of the Pedregal de Santa Úrsula neighborhood to seek financial gain due to the inconveniences they endured for months because of the renovation works at the historic stadium, which has hosted the World Cup three times. "It was a long time of 'you can't pass,' 'the street is closed.' Every time there are games at the stadium, it's a hassle, and with the World Cup, it became a nightmare trying to get home with the pretext of the construction, and I don't see anything different; at least now it leaves us something," adds Leonardo.
NationalUS Issues Travel Recommendations for Mexico: What You Should Know Days Before the World Cup
With just six days until the start of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the US Embassy and consulates in Mexico have issued recommendations for those crossing the border, whether to attend a match or for various other reasons. The tournament, which will take place in 16 cities across the US, Mexico, and Canada, is expected to attract 5.5 million visitors to Mexico, according to the detailed communication from the US Embassy and consulates. Although all of Mexico is classified under Level 2 of the State Department's travel alert—indicating 'exercise increased caution'—there are areas with higher alert levels. The embassy and consulates emphasized specific warnings for the World Cup, ranging from how to avoid dangers while driving to tips on packing. Prohibited items for entry into Mexico include weapons and ammunition, electronic cigarettes and vaping liquids, as well as illegal drugs. 'If you plan to drive to Mexico for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, be well-informed to avoid dangerous situations that other Americans have faced on Mexican roads. Please carefully review the travel alert information for each state along your route to understand the risks you may encounter along the way,' the statement reads. Additionally, travelers are advised to 'check their luggage and clothing pockets before traveling if they regularly carry prohibited items in Mexico. Bringing prohibited items can lead to severe penalties, even if done accidentally.'
Public SafetyMinor accused of creating sexually explicit AI images of female classmates
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — The Brownsville Police Department issued a warning on Thursday and reminded the public that using artificial intelligence technology to create sexually explicit images without a person's consent comes with criminal consequences. On May 27, Brownsville police arrested a juvenile accused of creating sexually explicit images of female classmates based on photos
NationalTrump Administration Asks Banks to Take Action Against Undocumented Individuals
The financial crimes division of the Treasury Department wants banks to help identify payroll schemes linked to undocumented individuals as part of the Trump administration's latest measure to tighten immigration control. The Financial Crimes Enforcement Network, also known as FinCEN, issued a notice on Friday asking banks to be vigilant against identity theft, tax fraud, and money laundering schemes related to the hiring of unauthorized workers. This comes after President Donald Trump signed an executive order in May requiring banks to scrutinize the citizenship of their clients more closely. The order instructs banking regulators and government agencies to look for signs that undocumented individuals are opening accounts or obtaining loans or credit cards. However, the order is less aggressive than banks had anticipated, as they expected the White House to mandate the collection of citizenship information from clients. Still, without encouraging widespread exclusion of large segments of the population, the order aims to deter individuals who are in the U.S. illegally from interacting with the financial system. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent stated in a release that the Trump administration 'will not allow illegal outsiders to abuse financial institutions to steal billions of dollars from hardworking American taxpayers.' 'Schemes to pay illegal workers often rely on access to the U.S. financial system, including U.S. banks,' Bessent added. Since banks have never collected information on the citizenship or immigration status of their clients, there are no reliable public figures on how much risk these clients pose to the financial system. The banking industry had been intensely lobbying for months to prevent the White House from issuing an executive order that would have made the collection of clients' citizenship status mandatory, arguing that it would be costly and require enormous amounts of paperwork. Given that the order only provided guidance to banks rather than a mandate, it seems the banks managed to convince the White House. The notice urges financial institutions to be alert for 'red flags' that an individual is in the U.S. illegally.
CommunityRio Grande Valley community rallies for Sharyland Rattlers baseball team
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — The Sharyland Rattlers baseball team is off to make history at the state championship. The Rattlers will face off against Lucas Lovejoy Friday night in Round Rock. "Everyone has pride here in the RGV," said Alejandro Islas. "I mean, me as a player, I would love to see my community come
NationalAustin Woman Gets 4 Years for Stealing $1.7M from Federal Non-Profit
Star Rana Jackson, a former Executive Director of the American Indian Center of Arkansas (AICA), has been sentenced to four years in federal prison for wire fraud. Jackson, 50, from Austin, embezzled over $1.7 million from AICA, a non-profit funded by federal grants. She pleaded guilty to the charges and was also ordered to pay nearly $1.8 million in restitution. During her tenure, Jackson misappropriated funds from various grants, including $30,000 from the Department of Education and $40,000 from the Department of Health and Human Services, using the money for personal expenses. The investigation was led by the FBI.