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NationalLabor Day: Its Origins and Why We Celebrate It
UNITED STATES – Each year, a special holiday arrives in the United States: Labor Day. It is a significant day, a moment when we pause to thank and acknowledge the hard work of the country's workers. This year, it is celebrated on Monday, September 7. As families gather, parades march through the streets, and grills cook delicious food, today there is more than just parties and store sales. Let's take a look at the history behind this cherished national holiday:
CommunityFormer Wrestler Steps Into the STC Kitchen
Nicholas Sachs, a 37-year-old resident of Weslaco and father of three, is pursuing a Commercial Baking Certificate at South Texas College (STC) after a decade in professional wrestling. Originally from Lake Charles, Louisiana, Sachs has always had a passion for cooking, influenced by his Cajun and Italian heritage. He aims to further his education with an Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts. As he transitions from wrestling, where he learned the importance of dedication, he plans to open a Cajun restaurant and a training gym, merging his culinary dreams with his wrestling background.
Public SafetyCBP officers seize over $2.5M in Meth at Juarez-Lincoln Bridge in Laredo
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers at the Juarez-Lincoln Bridge in Laredo seized over 280 pounds of methamphetamine, valued at approximately $2.5 million. The seizure took place on August 25, when a CBP officer referred a 2011 Honda CR-V for further inspection after a canine alert. During the secondary inspection, officers found the drugs hidden in the vehicle. Port Director Albert Flores emphasized the importance of CBP's vigilance and canine operations in preventing dangerous narcotics from entering local communities.
NationalJudge Rejects Trump's Effort to Restrict Mail-in Voting Again
A federal judge has temporarily blocked a requirement from the U.S. Postal Service, mandated by Donald Trump, that would impose new controls on mail-in ballots ahead of the midterm elections. Judge Indira Talwani ruled that the new regulation is likely illegal and unconstitutional, stating that its rushed implementation could disenfranchise millions of voters. The ruling applies only to the midterm elections, as states like North Carolina have already begun sending ballots. The judge's decision comes after the Trump administration requested the Supreme Court to overturn her previous order that halted the regulation.
Public SafetyMcAllen Police Seek Man on Multiple Domestic Violence Charges
The McAllen Police Department is seeking public assistance to locate 23-year-old Jakobie Deanthony Harris, who is wanted following a domestic violence incident reported on September 3, 2026. A McAllen Municipal Court magistrate has issued formal arrest warrants after establishing probable cause for multiple charges, including two counts of violating specific court orders, two counts of continuous violence against the family, one count of injury to a minor, and one count of repeated violation of court orders. Anyone with information can contact McAllen Crime Stoppers at (956) 687-TIPS (956-687-8477) or through the 'P3 Tips' mobile app for a potential cash reward.
Public SafetyAuthorities Search for Gaudencio Canales Barrera, Missing in Mission
Authorities in Hidalgo County are searching for 76-year-old Gaudencio Canales Barrera, who was last seen on September 3, 2026, at 11:00 PM at 2702 Gracie Avenue in Mission, Texas. Canales suffers from early-stage Alzheimer's and requires immediate assistance. He is described as 5'06" tall, weighing 220 lbs, with medium complexion, brown eyes, and brown hair. At the time of his disappearance, he was wearing a dark shirt, black shorts, and white and black sneakers. Canales may be driving a blue 2016 Chevrolet Colorado with Texas license plate MRH2402. Anyone with information should contact 911 or the Hidalgo County Sheriff's Department.
SportsWeek 2: High school football Thursday highlights
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — It’s week two of high school football in the Rio Grande Valley, and Valley Sports Central has your Thursday night highlights. Our high school football coverage continues Friday in Harlingen, where our Valley Sports Central team will be closely following our Game of the Week. Harlingen High School is taking on
Business7 Brew to Bring First Drive-Thru Coffee Stand to Weslaco
7 Brew, the popular drive-thru coffee brand, is set to open its first location in Weslaco at 905 N. Texas Blvd. The coffee stand was installed this week and is anticipated to open later this year. Known for its energetic service and over 20,000 customizable drink options, 7 Brew offers a variety of beverages including coffee, smoothies, and teas. The new stand is expected to create around 50 jobs in the area as part of the brand's expansion, which includes over 850 locations nationwide. More details about the grand opening will be shared closer to the launch date.
CommunityRegister Free for the First-Ever Pharr Gateway Forum, Oct. 7th
The City of Pharr will host the inaugural Gateway Forum on October 7, 2026, from 9 AM to 2 PM at the Pharr Development & Research Center, located at 850 W. Dicker Rd. Registration is free and open to business leaders and community stakeholders interested in international trade and economic development. The event will feature panel discussions and a keynote address by Duncan Wood, focusing on cross-border commerce. Additionally, registered attendees can enjoy trolley tours of the industrial park and a Networking Mixer in the evening. For more details, visit PharrGateway.com or contact Yuri Gonzalez at (956) 310-2139.
NationalBody of a Morena Congressman Found in Mexico
A federal deputy from the ruling Morena party, Zenyazen Escobar García, was found dead in a vehicle on a highway in Veracruz on Friday. The discovery was confirmed by Veracruz's prosecutor, Lizbeth Aurelia Jiménez Aguirre, near La Gloria in Puente Nacional. Preliminary investigations indicate he suffered at least one gunshot wound to the head. Escobar García, 42, previously served as Secretary of Education and was elected to Congress in 2024. The Veracruz government announced that the Federal Attorney General's Office will take over the case to ensure a thorough investigation. Morena expressed condolences and called for clarity regarding the circumstances of his death.
Public SafetyTexas Game Wardens urge Labor Day Weekend boating safety
AUSTIN, Texas (FOX 44) - The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) is reminding boaters not to leave safety at the ramp this Labor Day Weekend. With the hot temperatures, lakes, rivers and coastal waters offer a welcome place to cool off. Texas Game Wardens will be on patrol throughout the holiday weekend as Labor Day typically brings increased boating traffic across the state. Texas recorded 178
EducationTexas A&M University Higher Education Center at McAllen Names First Chief of Staff
Texas A&M University Higher Education Center at McAllen has appointed Cyndi Beltran as its first Chief of Staff, effective September 1, 2026. Previously the executive assistant to COO Ernest Aliseda, Beltran brings 18 years of experience in higher education administration and public health. In her new role, she will support the leadership team in advancing institutional priorities and overseeing executive operations. Beltran holds a Bachelor of Science in Biology from The University of Texas–Pan American and is involved in various community organizations, including the Hope Family Health Center and the Edinburg Rotary Club.
PoliticsAfter being indicted, ICE officer makes his first appearance in federal court
McALLEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — A U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement officer who shot a Venezuelan immigrant — and allegedly lied about it — made his first appearance in federal court on Friday. ICE Deportation Officer Christian J. Castro, 52, of McAllen shot a Venezuelan man on Jan. 14, 2026, during a major immigration operation in
CommunityForever Family: Sylvia
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — Every week, CBS Rio Grande Valley works to find a forever home for a Rio Grande Valley foster child as part of our Forever Family partnership with the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services. Meet Sylvia, a 16-year-old girl who is ready to be matched with her forever family. Sylvia
CommunityMcAllen Gears Up for Fiesta de Palmas October 16–18
Fiesta de Palmas returns to the McAllen Convention Center from October 16 to 18, 2026, inviting locals and visitors to enjoy three days filled with food, music, and cultural activities. The event will feature an expanded carnival with over 30 rides, live music, and interactive attractions. Notable highlights include the Beer Around the World event on October 17, benefiting Hope Family Health Center. Admission is free on October 16, with a $10 fee after 4 p.m. on the following days. The festival promises diverse entertainment, including a mariachi competition, costume contest, and artisan market.
Public SafetyNational Restaurant Association Releases New Public Safety Guide
The National Restaurant Association has introduced a new guide titled "Always Ready: Public Safety" aimed at assisting restaurant owners and staff in handling public safety incidents. This resource covers various risks, including robberies and customer conflicts, and offers actionable steps for identifying vulnerabilities, enhancing security, and training employees. The guide is structured into three phases: preparation, management, and recovery. It emphasizes the importance of having a safety plan to make informed decisions during emergencies. This publication is part of a broader series that includes guidance on various crises affecting the restaurant industry.
Public SafetyTragedy: Traveled to Orlando to Celebrate Wedding Anniversary and Dies in Hit-and-Run
ORLANDO, Florida – A couple who traveled to Orlando from Connecticut to celebrate their anniversary was involved in a traffic accident on International Drive, with the alleged perpetrator fleeing the scene. The man celebrating the anniversary with his partner died from his injuries. Nelson Carrasquillo, 29, succumbed to the crash, while his partner, Julissa Velázquez, 23, remains in critical condition. The accused of causing the accident and fleeing the scene appeared before a judge on Friday. According to the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP), Carrasquillo was driving south on International Drive when another vehicle allegedly ran a red light and collided with his car. The suspect is Christopher Janiel Laureda, 19.
Public SafetyBreaking News: Fatal Accident Reported in the City of Mission
DPS spokesperson María Hernández confirmed to Telemundo 40 that three vehicles were involved in the accident and reported that one person has died. This is a developing story. We will provide updates as more details become available.
PoliticsICE Agent Pleads Not Guilty After Appearing in Texas Court
MCALLEN, Texas — Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agent Christian Castro appeared in federal court in McAllen, Texas, on Thursday, where he was formally charged and entered a not guilty plea. Castro faces six counts for allegedly making false statements to the FBI regarding a shooting in Minnesota, where he claimed to have been attacked by three men with a broom and a shovel before firing his weapon and injuring a Venezuelan immigrant in the leg, a version that prosecutors say is contradicted by surveillance videos. After the hearing, a federal judge granted him release on a $75,000 bond with strict conditions that include surrendering his passport, continuous monitoring, and mobility restrictions allowing him to travel only to Minnesota for court appointments. His legal team emphasized that the officer voluntarily surrendered upon learning of the charges, indicating he does not pose a flight risk to authorities. Additionally, his attorneys confirmed they will formally take on Castro's defense in the parallel state case he faces in Minnesota for the same incidents. The outcome of this case is expected to define the agent's legal responsibility in both federal and state courts.
BusinessKelly Keel Named President and CEO of Texas Association of Business
Kelly Keel has been appointed as the new president and CEO of the Texas Association of Business, effective October 2, 2026. Currently the executive director of the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, Keel brings 25 years of experience in environmental regulation and infrastructure. She emphasized the importance of a unified voice for Texas employers, especially as the state faces significant economic growth. Jo Betsy Norton, chair of the TAB Board, highlighted Keel's expertise in state government and her ability to address workforce and education needs. Keel holds degrees from Texas A&M University and resides in Austin with her family.