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CommunityWhy Alamo’s Historic Transformation is a Must-Read Story
The City of Alamo is undergoing a significant transformation under Mayor J.R. Garza, who took office in late 2023. After decades of stagnation, Alamo is now focusing on infrastructure, public safety, and economic development, with over $100 million in projects currently underway. This revitalization aims to reshape the city’s future through strategic growth and modernization. The efforts are a collective mission involving city commissioners and municipal staff, emphasizing teamwork in advancing essential services and projects. The ongoing changes are expected to have a lasting impact on the community and the broader Rio Grande Valley.
HealthUSDA announces possible New World screwworm infection in South Texas
The United States Department of Agriculture announced on social media that a case of the New World screwworm (NWS) may have been detected in south Texas.
PoliticsMayor J.R. Garza Pushes Historic Transformation in Alamo
Mayor J.R. Garza of Alamo is spearheading significant development efforts aimed at revitalizing the city, which he describes as experiencing its most active growth period in decades. Since taking office in November 2023, Garza has prioritized infrastructure upgrades, public safety investments, and economic planning, with over $100 million in projects underway. Notable initiatives include a new public safety building, a $4 million all-inclusive park, and drainage improvements. Garza emphasizes community engagement and transparency in decision-making, aiming to attract businesses and enhance the quality of life for residents. The city’s strategic location and ongoing projects position it for sustainable growth.
National2 scientists charged with bringing deactivated mpox virus into the US and lying to authorities
Two scientists from a U.S. government lab face charges for allegedly smuggling deactivated mpox virus vials from Africa into the U.S. and lying to authorities at Detroit Metropolitan Airport. Vincent Munster and Claude Kwe were stopped after returning from the Republic of Congo, where an mpox outbreak has caused over 2,000 deaths. Despite Munster's claims that he had no biological materials, tests revealed the vials in their possession. They are scheduled to appear in federal court in Missoula, Montana. The National Institutes of Health is cooperating with the investigation, which remains ongoing.
PoliticsCameron County tables decision on tax break request for major AI shipbuilding project
Cameron County officials postponed a decision on Saronic Technologies' request for a tax break during a recent commissioners meeting. The company aims to establish a shipyard at the Port of Brownsville to build AI-driven military and commercial vessels. Supporters highlighted the economic and educational benefits, urging approval, while opponents emphasized the need for environmental protection and public services. Uriel Gavito voiced concerns about prioritizing corporate interests over community health. Saronic representatives countered that their facility would create local jobs and collaborate with educational institutions. The matter will be revisited on June 16, as not all commissioners were present for the vote.
PoliticsMission city leaders discussing replacing historic preservation commission
Mission city leaders are considering reviving the historic preservation commission by repealing its existing ordinance. During a workshop on Tuesday, council members agreed to discuss replacing the commission with a new appointed committee at the next city council meeting. The current commission has not met in three years and has failed to enforce preservation standards for historic buildings. Mayor Norie Gonzalez Garza emphasized the need for compliance with city regulations. Local preservationist Gabriel Ozuna expressed concerns about the risks to historic sites, as Mission holds 10 of the 23 historically listed properties in Hidalgo County, including La Lomita Chapel and the Border Theater.
CommunitySouth Padre Island's Isla Blanca Park tops USA Today's best beaches in Texas list
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — For the third straight year, Isla Blanca Park on South Padre Island has claimed the No. 1 spot on USA Today's best beaches in Texas list. The list is compiled after a panel of travel experts nominates their top picks, and readers cast their vote to decide the winner. Isla Blanca
CommunitySTC’s 17th Annual South Texas Ceramic Showdown, June 10&11
The South Texas College Art Department and Library Art Gallery will host the 17th Annual South Texas Ceramic Showdown on June 10 and 11, themed 'Finding the Right Combination.' Featured artists include Laura Caroline Casas from Youngsville, NC, and Brownsville's Andy Rangel. The event will kick off with a clay demonstration on June 10 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., followed by opening receptions from 4 to 6 p.m. On June 11, an artist talk will take place from 9 to 11 a.m., with another clay demonstration from noon to 4 p.m. The exhibitions will showcase works from various institutions, highlighting both emerging and experienced artists.
CommunityHow a New Paint Job Keeps the Flying Tiger Legacy Alive
At Moody Air Force Base in Georgia, an A-10C Thunderbolt II has been repainted with a design inspired by the legendary Flying Tigers, honoring Brig. Gen. David Lee 'Tex' Hill and the 23rd Fighter Group. The aircraft features a striking camouflage and the iconic Flying Tiger emblem, reflecting the squadron's World War II heritage. Eleven airmen from the 23rd Maintenance Squadron dedicated significant time to restore the jet, ensuring it serves as a tribute to both the squadron's history and the airmen who continue that legacy. The aircraft is now fully operational while symbolizing the enduring spirit of the Flying Tigers.
Community'It's a safe space': RGV Dads helping men throughout fatherhood
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — Whether you are a first-time father or a third-time father, a nonprofit organization based in the Rio Grande Valley is supporting men throughout fatherhood with events and resources. RGV Dads, founded by Jesus T. Peña in July 2018, was created to connect fathers in the Valley through meetups, mental health support,
Public SafetyFour Tren de Aragua Members Plead Guilty to 2024 Double Murder
Four members of the Tren de Aragua gang, including Keiber Jaen Martinez, Samuel Gonzalez Castro, Eferson Morillo-Gomez, and Keineyer Ibarra-Mujica, pleaded guilty to multiple murder charges in connection with the May 24, 2024, killings of Claretha LaQuesha Daniels and Justin Lawless in the Bronx, New York. They were also involved in the non-fatal shooting of a third victim. A fifth member, Jarwin Valero-Calderon, previously pleaded guilty to racketeering. The U.S. Department of Justice emphasized the gang's violent history and commitment to dismantling such organizations in the U.S. All eight defendants in this case have been convicted.
BusinessMcAllen Unveils $600K in Storefront Upgrade Grants
The City of McAllen has launched the REFRESH 50|50 Storefront Revitalization Grant Program, offering over $600,000 in matching grants to commercial property owners. The maximum grant amount has increased from $15,000 to $25,000 per project, aimed at enhancing storefronts to attract customers and improve commercial areas. Eligible improvements include painting, landscaping, signage, and ADA accessibility upgrades. Since its inception in 2019, the program has funded 129 projects, generating over $1.37 million in investments. City officials emphasize the importance of supporting local businesses as McAllen continues to thrive economically, with nearly $100 million in sales tax revenue projected for 2025.
NationalHouse of Representatives Rebukes Trump Over Iran War
On Wednesday, the House of Representatives issued an unusual rebuke to President Donald Trump by approving a measure pushed by Democrats to end his war with Iran, despite objections from Republican leadership. This was one of two Democrat-led measures—both opposed by the White House—that advanced in the Republican-controlled House. Lawmakers also approved a motion to allow a vote on sending aid to Ukraine. The war powers resolution regarding Iran, introduced by Representative Gregory Meeks of New York, the highest-ranking Democrat on the Foreign Affairs Committee, was scheduled for a vote before the House's Memorial Day recess on May 21. However, it was abruptly pulled from the floor due to a lack of Republican attendance to block it. On Wednesday, the measure passed with 215 votes in favor and 208 against; four Republicans joined all Democrats in supporting it. These Republicans were Representatives Brian Fitzpatrick (PA), Thomas Massie (KY), Tom Barrett (MI), and Warren Davidson (OH). The resolution orders Trump to withdraw U.S. armed forces from hostilities with Iran unless Congress votes to declare war or authorizes military force against the Middle Eastern nation. However, the measure would not compel the president to end the conflict, serving instead as a symbolic expression of disapproval of Trump's war with Iran. Earlier this year, Republicans had rejected three other attempts to pass a war powers resolution. The most recent vote ended in a tie of 212 to 212, a result Democrats celebrated, arguing that more Americans oppose the war and that it was only a matter of time before they achieved their goal. Wednesday's vote gives new momentum to the resolution in the Senate, which had already advanced its own version of the war powers resolution last month, although it had not yet held a final vote. However, the Senate version is binding, requiring Trump to end the war without Congressional approval. For this to happen, the measure would also need to be approved by the House, after which Trump could exercise his veto power. The House resolution faced opposition from House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) and most Republicans, who argued it undermines Trump and his top negotiators at a time when they are trying to secure a nuclear deal with Iran. Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Brian Mast (R-FL) called Wednesday's action 'simply a totally absurd vote.' 'I don't think there is any Democrat or Republican who can tell you what forces they would want to withdraw from Iran. In reality, they don't want to withdraw anything from there. They just want a stupid political vote, which is exactly what this represents,' Mast stated on Wednesday. This 'weakens the president's position while negotiating with Iran.' In the same series of votes on Wednesday, the House voted 218 to 204 in favor of a motion to 'release'—or advance—legislation providing aid to Ukraine. This vote came after the so-called 'release petition' garnered 218 signatures—a simple majority of the House—on May 13, allowing supporters to bypass Johnson and Republican leadership to bring the measure directly to the floor. Representative Kevin Kiley—an ex-Republican now serving as an independent—joined all Democrats and two Republicans—Fitzpatrick and Representative Don Bacon of Nebraska—in signing the petition for Ukraine. Kiley, along with six other Republicans, voted on Wednesday in favor of releasing the bill. This sets the stage for a final vote scheduled for Thursday. 'This vote is not a procedural vote,' said Meeks, who also led the initiative for the bill's release. 'It is a statement about whether this Congress—and all its members—stands in solidarity and support of Ukraine and its people in their fight for freedom, their fight for democracy, and their fight for independence.'
HealthPossible Screwworm Case Under Investigation in South Texas
Authorities reported that a possible case of New World Screwworm (NWS) has been detected in South Texas. According to preliminary information, the sample was sent to the National Veterinary Services Laboratories (NVSL) of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) in Ames, Iowa, where confirmation tests will be conducted. While awaiting official results, authorities indicated that personnel have already been activated in the area and are working in coordination with local partners to address the situation and follow up on the case. They also stated that they will keep the community informed as the investigation progresses and new information becomes available. 'What you can expect from us is transparency, openness, and, most importantly, action,' authorities said in a statement. The screwworm is a pest that can affect animals by depositing larvae in open wounds, which can cause serious health damage to the animal if not treated promptly. Authorities assured that updates will be provided as soon as laboratory test results are available.
HealthAuthorities Investigate Possible Case of Screwworm in South Texas
Authorities reported that a possible case of New World Screwworm (NWS) has been detected in South Texas. According to preliminary information, the sample was sent to the National Veterinary Services Laboratories (NVSL) of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) in Ames, Iowa, where confirmation tests will be conducted. While awaiting official results, authorities stated that personnel have already been activated in the area and are working in coordination with local partners to address the situation and follow up on the case. They also indicated that they will keep the community informed as the investigation progresses and new data becomes available. 'What you can expect from us is transparency, openness, and, most importantly, action,' authorities said in a statement. The screwworm is a pest that can affect animals by depositing larvae in open wounds, which can cause serious health issues if not treated promptly. Authorities assured that updates will be provided as soon as laboratory test results are available.
NationalWhite House compares migrants to space aliens
A migrant advocacy organization that helps refugees throughout the world is taking offense to a White House website that says "aliens have been walking among us." Hilary Chester, vice president of international and domestic programs for Jesuit Refugee Service/USA tells Border Report Live that the references are dehumanizing and poke fun at migrants comparing them to space aliens.
BusinessTexas Leads With Most Fortune 500 Headquarters
Texas has been recognized as the state with the most Fortune 500 headquarters, boasting 57 companies according to the recently released 2026 Fortune 500 list. Governor Greg Abbott highlighted this achievement, emphasizing Texas's favorable business environment, stable regulations, and a skilled workforce as key factors attracting major corporations. The total revenue for these companies amounts to $2.8 trillion, reinforcing Texas's position as a leading hub for business investment. Abbott stated, "Texas is the undisputed headquarters of headquarters," reflecting the state's appeal to both people and businesses alike.
Public SafetyHorror: Prominent real estate agent, her daughters, and ex-husband die in apparent murder-suicide
A prominent real estate agent from South Florida, her two young daughters, and the girls' father were identified as the deceased in an apparent murder-suicide case in the city of Doral. Melanie Hyer, 46, was a real estate professional known for her expertise and frequently interviewed by the media about the South Florida real estate market. Miami-Dade County Sheriff's Office officials reported that Hyer was among four people found dead inside a home in the Doral Isles neighborhood during a welfare check on Tuesday night. Hyer's daughters, 11-year-old Savannah Whiten and 8-year-old Sienna Whiten, were also found dead in the home, along with their father, 42-year-old Ryan Charles Whiten. All had stab wounds and were pronounced dead at the scene, which the sheriff's office is treating as a murder-suicide. Although the couple had separated years ago, they shared custody of their daughters and had both remarried, though those relationships also ended. Court records show Hyer was married to another man until March of this year. The last known address for Whiten was an apartment in Doral Isles. The news shocked the community, including Doral Mayor Christi Fraga, who personally knew Hyer. Fraga called it an 'unimaginable tragedy' and added in a statement, 'As a mother, and as someone who personally knew and admired the loving and dedicated mother at the center of this tragedy, this loss feels especially close.' Former NBC6 investigative journalist Willard Shepard, a close friend of Hyer, expressed devastation upon learning of her death. 'She was an extremely generous person in her professional life; she was an expert in estate issues, foreclosures, that sort of thing,' Shepard said. 'I spoke with her probably a month and a half ago, with no signs or indications of anything like this, and obviously, if there had been any signs, I would have said something or taken some action; but there was simply nothing that indicated this could have happened.' Shepard mentioned that neighbors told him the girls had gone biking with Ryan Whiten on Sunday. Parents, teachers, and students at the girls' school, Downtown Doral Elementary, were also mourning on Wednesday, as grief counselors were made available. 'Our thoughts and prayers are with their families, friends, our faculty and staff at our elementary school, where they currently attended, and our high school. Both students were deeply loved by their school, their teachers, and their peers,' said school principal Jeannette Acevedo-Isenberg in an email to parents. The girls were also members of the Doral field hockey team, which remembered them in an Instagram post on Wednesday. 'Our thoughts and sincerest condolences are with their family, friends, and all those whose lives were touched by them,' the post read. 'They were an important part of our community and will be remembered for their kindness, friendship, and the positive impact they had on everyone around them.' Local resident Consuelo Paredes expressed being 'super sad, the community where this happened is very quiet.' Detectives are now trying to piece together the hours leading up to the tragedy to determine exactly what occurred inside the home to clarify the motives behind this chilling crime. Authorities continue to process evidence and interview family members and close associates of the victims. So far, they have not revealed who may have committed the attacks or the possible motive behind this tragedy that has left an entire community searching for answers. If you or someone you know is in crisis, call or text 988 to reach the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, or chat live at 988lifeline.org. You can also visit SpeakingOfSuicide.com/resources for additional support.
EducationSTC Celebrates Reaccreditation of Its Powerful Dual Credit Program
South Texas College (STC) is celebrating its reaccreditation from the National Alliance of Concurrent Enrollment Partnerships (NACEP), making it the only nationally accredited dual credit program in Texas. This recognition highlights STC's commitment to providing high-quality dual credit opportunities for high school students, allowing them to earn college credits while still in school. STC partners with 21 school districts and has served over 150,000 students since 2000, saving families more than $464 million. The program offers various degrees and career options, reinforcing STC’s role as a leader in educational access and student success in the Rio Grande Valley.
BusinessHow the AI Explosion is Powering a Multi-Trillion Dollar Economic Shift
The rapid growth of artificial intelligence (AI) is driving a significant economic transformation in the U.S., with billions invested in data center construction and Nvidia's market valuation exceeding $5 trillion. A recent survey shows that AI usage among businesses is between 17% and 20%, with larger firms leading at 37%. Industries like Information and Finance are adopting AI more than Retail, which lags at 14%. Most companies are using AI to enhance tasks in sales, marketing, and IT. While some layoffs have been attributed to AI, the overall job market is expected to grow as skills adapt to new technologies.