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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.
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.
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.
NationalSenate begins voting on bill to fund ICE, Border Patrol as Democrats try to derail it
The Senate has commenced voting on a $70 billion bill to fund U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and the Border Patrol, aiming to resolve a funding blockade by Democrats. This legislation seeks to provide three years of funding amid calls for policy changes following the fatal shootings of two protesters by federal agents. Democrats plan to introduce amendments, including one to eliminate a controversial $1.776 billion settlement fund. Senate Republicans are attempting to navigate procedural hurdles to pass the bill without Democratic support, while House leaders hope to finalize the legislation by week's end.
HealthWhat to know about screwworm in Texas
The first case of New World screwworm in the U.S. was confirmed in South Texas on June 3, originating from a calf in La Pryor, Zavala County. The USDA has activated personnel to monitor the situation, emphasizing that while screwworms do not directly affect food supply chains, they could cause $1.8 billion in damage to Texas' cattle industry. The screwworm lays eggs in living flesh, leading to severe tissue damage. The USDA has implemented a quarantine zone and is collaborating with Mexican officials to eradicate the pest using sterile fly techniques. Ranchers are urged to monitor livestock for signs of infestation.
NationalTrump administration has separated dozens of children from their parents for a second time, AP finds
An Associated Press investigation reveals that the Trump administration has re-separated dozens of children from their families, despite a legal settlement aimed at preventing such actions. Eleven-year-old Ederson Galicia Alva, who was first separated from his mother at the U.S.-Mexico border in 2018, experienced a second separation last year in Florida. After enduring months of trauma, Ederson's family was allowed to return to Florida following a federal judge's ruling. However, many families face ongoing challenges, including detention and deportation, as the government continues aggressive immigration enforcement, raising fears of further separations.
PoliticsTexas now requires cities to do an audit before raising property taxes. Some small towns cant afford it.
Texas cities are now required to conduct annual financial audits before they can increase property taxes, a law affecting over 130 towns, particularly smaller ones. Howe, a town of about 3,686 residents, received a notice from the Attorney General's office freezing its tax rate due to overdue audits. The cost of an audit can be significant, with Howe facing a $40,000 bill against a $7 million budget. This financial strain limits their ability to fund essential services and infrastructure projects. Other towns like Alpine and Manvel are also struggling to meet the new requirements, facing unique challenges in staffing and management.
NationalControversy in Colombia as James Rodríguez Allegedly Denies Photo to Petro's Daughter
BOGOTÁ, Colombia – A controversy erupted in Colombia on Thursday after it was reported that James Rodríguez, captain of the national team for the 2026 World Cup, allegedly denied a photo to Antonella, the youngest daughter of Colombian President Gustavo Petro, who presented the team with the national flag. During the event, which was not open to the press and was announced at the last minute, Colombian players took to a stage to receive a sombrero vueltiao gifted by President Petro, where most of the footballers appeared to be displeased. Antonella was alongside Petro, and when she greeted the 34-year-old Rodríguez, she asked him for a photo. However, he continued to greet others on stage and seemingly ignored her request. The incident did not go unnoticed, and on the social media platform X, Antonella and James Rodríguez became the second and third trending topics, respectively.
HealthHidalgo County Monitors Flesh-Eating Screwworm Threat After Texas Case
Hidalgo County is actively monitoring the New World screwworm situation following its detection in Zavala County. Judge Richard Cortez stated there are currently no cases in Hidalgo County, but officials are collaborating with the Texas Animal Health Commission and the Texas Department of State Health Services to prepare for any potential incidents. Coordination with neighboring counties is also underway. The USDA reported the screwworm was found in a calf, prompting immediate response measures including quarantines and increased surveillance. Residents are urged to report any unusual animal wounds. There is no current threat to the food supply.
PoliticsSan Benito to discuss city manager's resignation at special city commission meeting
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — The city of San Benito will discuss the letter of resignation submitted by City Manager Fred Sandoval during a special city commission meeting next week. According to the city's agenda posted on Wednesday afternoon, the discussion will be held during executive session on June 9. The appointment of an interim city
HealthPaxton Launches Probe Into Celsius Energy Drinks Over Caffeine Levels and the Dangers to Children
Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has initiated an investigation into Celsius Holdings, Inc. due to concerns over the caffeine levels in its energy drinks marketed to children and teens. The investigation follows the tragic death of a 17-year-old from Weslaco, Texas, whose family claims excessive caffeine consumption from Alani Nu, a Celsius product, contributed to her death. Each 12-ounce can of Alani Nu contains 200 mg of caffeine, a level deemed dangerous for minors. The investigation will assess whether Celsius misled consumers about the safety of its products, potentially violating Texas trade laws.
Public SafetyAuthorities Investigate Case of Alleged Use of Artificial Intelligence to Create Fake Explicit Images
Brownsville – According to authorities, a minor was arrested on May 27, 2026, following an investigation that alleges he used photographs of female classmates obtained from social media to create sexually explicit images using artificial intelligence tools. The Brownsville Police Department stated that the minor faces 10 charges related to the alleged illegal production or distribution of sexually explicit material generated through 'deepfake' technology. As in all criminal cases, the charges represent accusations and must be proven in court. Authorities noted that while artificial intelligence has numerous positive applications, it can also be used in ways that cause significant harm to others. The police reminded the community that creating, distributing, or disseminating sexually explicit images generated by artificial intelligence without consent can constitute a crime and lead to legal consequences. They also advised the community to be cautious with the photographs shared online, especially those involving children and teenagers. According to the Brownsville Police, once an image is posted online, it can be copied, modified, or used by third parties without authorization. Authorities also recommend avoiding friend requests or followers from unknown individuals and reporting any suspicious activity or potentially harmful content on social media. The Brownsville Police indicated that anyone who believes they have been a victim of such situations can contact the department for guidance and support at (956) 548-7000.
Public SafetyTexas AG investigating Celsius following Weslaco cheerleader's death
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — Texas Attorney General and Republican candidate for U.S. Senate Ken Paxton announced Thursday his office is launching an investigation into Celsius Holdings, Inc., the parent company of Alani Nutrition, LLC, which is linked to a wrongful death lawsuit involving a Weslaco cheerleader. Paxton said his office will investigate whether the company
SportsUS Faces Powerful Germany in Friendly Match, Watch on Telemundo
The United States national team will face Germany this Saturday in a friendly match ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026, which kicks off on June 11 in North America. The match, which you can watch on Telemundo, will take place on Saturday, June 6, at Soldier Field in Chicago, starting at 2:30 PM Eastern Time. The team, led by Argentine Mauricio Pochettino, is coming off a 3-2 victory against Senegal in another friendly.
CommunityArtist Sues FIFA for Painting Over His Work to Promote the 2026 World Cup
The artist who painted a giant mural on a building in downtown Dallas, Texas, featuring life-sized whales, has filed a $25 million lawsuit against FIFA and others, claiming they illegally painted over his work to promote the upcoming World Cup matches in the city. Artist Wyland asserts that he hand-painted the extensive mural, which covered approximately 17,000 square feet on two walls of the building. The mural remained for nearly three decades before workers began painting over it last month, sparking outrage among residents who admired the mural's large scale and its message of ocean conservation. The World Cup organizing committee in the area stated in a release that, instead of Wyland's mural, a new artwork is planned 'to capture this current historic moment and reflect the energy, unity, and global spirit surrounding the 2026 World Cup.' They added that a portion of Wyland's mural would be preserved.
CommunityHarlingen residents invited to take survey for National Award
Harlingen, Texas (ValleyCentral) — The National Civic League invites residents of Harlingen to take part in a community survey that could help the city achieve national recognition. The city was recently named one of twenty finalists for the 2026 All-American City Award, which honors communities that “demonstrate strong civic health and collaborative problem-solving,” according to a press release. If chosen, Harlingen could receive an economic stimulus to help drive tourism and commerce.
Business$411M Texas Energy Fund Loan North Texas Natural Gas Power Plant Announced
Governor Greg Abbott has announced a $411 million loan agreement from the Texas Energy Fund for a new 570 megawatt natural gas power plant to be constructed by Rayburn Electric Cooperative in Sherman, Texas. The facility is expected to start operations in 2028, contributing to the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) grid. This project is part of the state's initiative to enhance power generation and reliability. The total estimated cost of the project is under $685 million, with the loan covering 60% at a 3% interest rate over 20 years. The Texas Energy Fund aims to secure dependable energy for Texas families and businesses.