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EducationSpaceX awards $100K in scholarships to Brownsville ISD students
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — SpaceX awarded students from the Brownsville Independent School District with $100,000 in scholarships on Thursday. The partnership between SpaceX and Brownsville ISD awards 10 students with $10,000 scholarships each to help them pursue a higher education and support their career goals. It adds that, in addition to academic success, students will
NationalNeither official nor unofficial: Mexico has no communication regarding US visa withdrawal
MEXICO CITY – Foreign Minister Roberto Velasco stated on Thursday that he has "no official or unofficial communication" from the United States regarding an alleged withdrawal of visas from two Mexican governors amid rising bilateral tensions. The governors in question are Alfonso Durazo of Sonora and Américo Villareal of Tamaulipas, who both denied reports on Wednesday that the US had revoked their visas due to an alleged investigation into their supposed ties to organized crime, as reported by the Los Angeles Times. "We have no official communication on this matter, nor unofficial. This is not a topic on which there has been any communication from the US government," Velasco said during a press conference alongside his German counterpart, Johann Wadephul, at the Foreign Ministry in Mexico City. On Wednesday, Durazo, from the ruling National Regeneration Movement (Morena), rejected the notion that he needed to "prove" he has a valid visa to travel to the United States. He also urged US authorities to "clarify the information" if such an investigation exists. Meanwhile, the governor of Tamaulipas, also from Morena, posted a video on social media criticizing the journalistic reports and the "false, biased accusations lacking any evidence to support them." The reactions from both politicians come after the Los Angeles Times reported that Durazo and Villareal are being investigated in the US for alleged connections to organized crime and fuel smuggling (known in Mexico as "huachicol"). The publication indicated that Washington has revoked their visas, but both politicians continue to enter the United States regularly under cooperation programs with US authorities. If this investigation is confirmed, it would represent another step in the recent campaign that Washington has launched against active Mexican politicians and their alleged ties to organized crime, following an urgent request in April for the arrest of ten officials from Sinaloa, including Governor Rubén Rocha Moya, for drug-related offenses. Velasco also mentioned that the tone of conversations with the US ambassador to Mexico, Ronald Johnson, has been one of cordiality and friendship between the two countries.
EducationWeslaco ISD summer meal program runs through July 10 at no cost to students
Weslaco ISD is providing free lunches for students aged 18 and under this summer, funded by a federal grant. Last year, the program successfully served thousands of students, and the district aims to continue supporting families facing rising food costs. Weslaco ISD spokesperson Carlos Robledo emphasized the importance of nutritious meals, especially given current food inflation. The summer meal program will be available until July 10, 2026, and no school ID is required to receive a meal. Families are encouraged to contact their school district to confirm if their child's school is participating in the program.
Public SafetyPETA urges caution after reports of cat deaths in McAllen
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — The People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals is urging residents to keep their pets indoors following reports of cat deaths in a north McAllen neighborhood. The call for action by the nonprofit organization PETA is followed by a social media post from U.S. Congressman Vicente Gonzalez, who said at least
Public SafetyTruck Allegedly Involved in Human Trafficking Catches Fire in Hidalgo County
A trailer truck, allegedly involved in human trafficking, caught fire in Hidalgo County, causing the southbound lane of Highway 281 to close six miles north of Linn. Sheriff Eddie Guerra announced the incident via social media, stating that law enforcement was pursuing the vehicle when the fire broke out. The situation is still developing, and more information will be provided as it becomes available.
HealthCameron County Monitors Screwworm Threat After Zavala County Detection
The U.S. Department of Agriculture confirmed the first case of New World Screwworm (NWS) in the U.S. on June 3, 2026, after an infected calf was found in Zavala County, Texas. In response, officials are establishing an infested zone and conducting surveillance to prevent the spread of this pest, which can affect livestock and pets. Although Zavala County is about 300 miles from Cameron County, local officials are coordinating with state and federal agencies to ensure readiness. Residents are urged to monitor animals for signs of infection and report any suspected cases to the Texas Animal Health Commission.
Public SafetyRGV Mother and Daughter Face Prison After Human Smuggling Conviction
A federal jury has found a mother and daughter from the Rio Grande Valley guilty of human smuggling. The verdict came after a two-day trial where evidence showed they transported an illegal alien to a Border Patrol checkpoint near Kingsville on July 22, 2025. The passenger, who could not provide identification, testified he was smuggled into the U.S. and was headed to Houston. The defendants claimed they believed he was a U.S. citizen, but the jury rejected this defense. Sentencing is scheduled for September 1, with both facing up to 10 years in prison. The case is part of Operation Take Back America.
Public SafetyCaught with cocaine, man said he planned to visit ‘my friend, my hoes’ near Corpus Christi
McALLEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — A man who told Border Patrol he planned to visit “my friend, my hoes” near Corpus Christi was caught transporting nearly six pounds of cocaine on Wednesday, according to the criminal complaint against him. Francisco Javier Palafox Jr. stopped at the U.S. Border Patrol checkpoint near Sarita on Wednesday afternoon. The
Public SafetyBail set at $200K for ICE officer wanted in Minneapolis shooting
BROWNSVILLE, Texas (ValleyCentral) — A U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement officer wanted in Minnesota for allegedly shooting a Venezuelan man had a bail of $200,000 set during a hearing Thursday morning in Cameron County. Christian J. Castro, 52, originally had no bail set when he appeared before a judge on May 30. He is charged
BusinessTxDOT Hosting Event for Small Businesses, July 20th
The TxDOT Pharr District is organizing an event on July 20 aimed at small businesses seeking state highway construction contracts. This event, titled BOSS (Big Opportunities Start Small), will allow participants to network with TxDOT engineers, prime contractors, and other small business representatives. The event will be conducted in English, but interpreters will be available upon request. Small businesses interested in attending can register by contacting the TxDOT Civil Rights Division at 210-615-5954 or via email. Accommodations for individuals with disabilities can also be arranged if requested by July 13, 2026.
Public SafetyDPS Finds 20 Migrants Hidden in Truck Tractor Near Laredo
The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) discovered 20 undocumented migrants hidden in a truck tractor during a traffic stop on IH-35 near Laredo on May 26, 2026. The stop was part of Operation Lone Star, conducted by a DPS Trooper around 4:00 p.m. The migrants, from Mexico, Honduras, and Guatemala, were found in the sleeping area of the vehicle. The driver, 47-year-old Antonio Brown from Nevada, was arrested and charged with human smuggling. This incident marks the second time in less than ten days that DPS has uncovered a similar situation, with another 20 migrants found on May 18.
BusinessDSHS Opens Applications for Statewide Food Truck Licenses
The Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) has launched applications for a new statewide license for mobile food vendors, including food trucks and pushcarts. This initiative follows the passage of HB 2844, which allows vendors to operate under a single license throughout Texas, eliminating the need for multiple local licenses. Starting July 1, all mobile food vendors must possess a DSHS license. Current vendors can continue operating if they have submitted a complete application. Inspections will be prioritized for new vendors without existing licenses. More details are available in the DSHS Mobile Food Vendor Guide.
CommunityFREE Fishing Day in Texas is June 6th
On June 6th, Texas will celebrate a Free Fishing Day, allowing residents and visitors to fish without a license at any public water body across the state. This event encourages everyone to enjoy the outdoors and try fishing, whether they are experienced anglers or newcomers. Participants are reminded to bring their fishing gear and a friend to share the experience. It's a perfect opportunity to create lasting memories on the water. For those looking for the best fishing spots, resources are available to help find ideal locations. Don't miss out on this chance to fish for free all day long!
NationalFive Partner Nations Join U.S. Forces for Operation Red Flag-Alaska
Operation Red Flag-Alaska 26-2 began on May 28, 2026, at Eielson Air Force Base and Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, involving over 2,100 service members from the U.S. and allied nations. The exercise aims to enhance air combat readiness and interoperability among forces from the U.S. Air Force, U.S. Army, Royal Air Force, Royal New Zealand Air Force, Royal Canadian Air Force, and Republic of Singapore Air Force. Participants will engage in joint airborne operations, including airdrops and tactical exchanges, simulating Indo-Pacific operational conditions. The exercise is set to conclude on June 12, 2026.
CommunitySTC President Honored for Outstanding Community Leadership
Ricardo J. Solis, Ph.D., President of South Texas College, has been awarded the 2026 Futuro RGV Community Leader Award for his innovative contributions to academics and workforce development during his nearly five-year tenure. Solis expressed gratitude for the recognition, attributing it to the collaborative efforts of students, faculty, and community partners. Under his leadership, STC has become the top Hispanic-Serving Institution in the U.S. and a leader in nursing education. The award highlights Solis's commitment to enhancing educational opportunities and economic development in the Rio Grande Valley, aligning with Futuro RGV's mission to improve community life.
SportsTelemundo Premieres Diarios de Fútbol with Rafael Amaya
Telemundo presents a special day of soccer programming on Saturday, June 6, featuring an international friendly match between the U.S. Men's National Team (USMNT) and Germany at 2:30 p.m. ET from Soldier Field in Chicago, followed by the premiere of Diarios de Fútbol with Rafael Amaya at 8 p.m./7c. The live match and Diarios de Fútbol with Rafael Amaya will offer a unique look at the stories, traditions, and passion that make soccer an integral part of the Hispanic experience in the United States, as anticipation builds for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
HealthTexas A&M AgriLife Responds After New World Screwworm found in Texas
Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service is mobilizing resources following the detection of the New World screwworm in a calf in Zavala County on June 3. Experts emphasize the importance of awareness and education to mitigate the pest's impact on livestock and wildlife. They are providing training, fact sheets, and guidance for livestock producers, veterinarians, and families. The New World screwworm poses serious risks as its larvae feed on living tissue. AgriLife has created materials in both English and Spanish to help Texans identify and report infestations early, which is crucial for controlling the pest's spread.
EducationPharr EDC Foundation Awards 50 Scholarships at 2026 Ceremony
During the 2026 Scholarship Award Ceremony on June 1, the Pharr EDC Foundation awarded 50 scholarships to local high school students in Pharr, Texas. Victor Perez, president of the Pharr Economic Development Corporation, highlighted the foundation's commitment to educational advancement, noting that over $1 million has been awarded to more than 500 students in five years. Keynote speaker Romeo Cantu inspired students to embrace their backgrounds, while former scholarship recipients shared their educational journeys. The event also featured new partnerships with local industries, emphasizing the importance of workforce development alongside academic support.
Public SafetyBail ordered at $200, 000 for ICE agent arrested in Harlingen on assault charges out of Minnesota
Christian Castro, an ICE agent, has been arrested in Harlingen on assault charges stemming from an incident in Minnesota. A judge set his bail at $200,000 following his arrest on May 29 at a residence on Sun Chase Drive. Castro is accused of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and falsely reporting a crime related to a nonfatal shooting of Julio Cesar Sosa-Celis on January 14. Minnesota officials are preparing extradition documents for Castro, who may face up to seven years in prison if convicted. The case has drawn scrutiny, with investigations into the officers' accounts of the incident.
NationalTexas Dream Act goes to court over fight to restore in-state tuition for undocumented students
The 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals is set to hear a case regarding the Texas Dream Act, which previously allowed undocumented students to pay in-state tuition. Advocates, including Students for Affordable Tuition and La Unión del Pueblo Entero, are seeking to defend the law after it was blocked last year following a lawsuit from the Trump administration. Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton's office argues that the law conflicts with federal immigration statutes. The Texas Dream Act has benefited over 57,000 students, and its repeal could have significant economic impacts on the state. A ruling from the court is expected in the coming weeks or months.