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CommunityValley Voices: Professional Wrestler "El Matatan"
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — In the latest edition of Valley Voices, CBS 4's Marco Ramirez sits down with Professional Wrestler Matt Robledo, most commonly known as "El Matatan" Mateo Ozuna. Robledo is from Santa Rosa and has always aspired to be with the WWE. Robledo is on his way to making that dream a reality
CommunityIt Takes a Village: Emergency preparedness and life-saving skills for families
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — It Takes A Village is a weekly ValleyCentral+ series that covers all things parenting, from real, honest conversations about daily routines and challenges to funny moments, lessons learned and balancing work and family life. Each week, host Meteorologist Lexie Walker and a guest will highlight a variety of perspectives, experiences, tips, solutions,
SportsInfantino defends World Cup ticket prices; compares them to NBA finals
FIFA President Gianni Infantino defended the ticket prices for the World Cup on Wednesday, stating that "if we are doing something wrong, then probably everyone selling tickets in North America is doing something wrong." Infantino spoke with reporters during an unusual Q&A session ahead of the opening match of a tournament expanded to 48 teams and 104 matches. He defended the record ticket prices, noted that FIFA had no power to ensure the U.S. government allowed a Somali referee to enter, and praised his own efforts to secure entry for the Iranian national soccer team into the United States. FIFA set initial prices at $140 for group stage matches, but standard tickets for the final on July 19, just outside New York, were announced for up to $8,680, with hospitality tickets reaching as high as $73,200. The prices for the final were later raised to $10,990 and then to $32,970. After receiving numerous criticisms, FIFA offered tickets at $60 to national federations for their regular fans, indicating that 130,000 tickets were made available in that category.
Public SafetyPolice identify woman who drowned at Port of Brownsville
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) —The Port of Brownsville Police and Security Department on Wednesday identified a woman whose body was recovered from the water at the Port of Brownsville last week. Ana Idalia Reyes, 60, of El Salvador, was found unresponsive and later pronounced dead after her body was recovered from the water on Friday, June
SportsRGV Red Crowns take on Central Texas Coyotes FC on Wednesday evening
The RGV Red Crowns will continue their four-game road trip on Wednesday evening, facing the Central Texas Coyotes FC in Tyler, Texas. The Red Crowns previously defeated the Coyotes in Harlingen in mid-May and are currently on a two-game winning streak with two consecutive clean sheets. Players Cade Erickson and Johan Arevalo emphasize the importance of staying focused and treating this match as a fresh start, acknowledging that the Coyotes will be better prepared after studying their previous game. The match will kick off at 7:30 PM at Woodson Field in Tyler.
EducationTexas high schoolers show gains across all subjects on STAAR tests
Texas high school students have shown improvements across all subjects on the STAAR tests, according to results released on Wednesday. The exams, which include Algebra I, Biology, English I, English II, and U.S. History, indicate readiness for college or careers. Texas Education Commissioner Mike Morath attributed these gains to focused teaching and the recent ban on cell phone use in classrooms. Approximately 54% of students passed Algebra I, up from 47% last year, while Biology saw a rise to 71%. English I and II also improved slightly. The changes in testing protocols aim to address concerns about overtesting in Texas schools.
BusinessMyssie Cardenas-Barajas Appointed to National Association of REALTORS® Data Center Work Group
Myssie Cardenas-Barajas, a REALTOR® and advocate for property rights, has been appointed to the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) Data Center Work Group. This group, part of the Land Use, Property Rights and Environment Committee, addresses critical issues related to data centers, which are increasingly important due to the rise of artificial intelligence and digital infrastructure. Cardenas-Barajas, who has extensive experience in policy and leadership, aims to balance technological growth with sustainable practices. She emphasizes the need for communities, especially in South Texas, to have a voice in shaping policies that impact land use and resource management.
CommunityStefano is Eliminated from the Sixth Season of La Casa de los Famosos
Stefano Piccioni was eliminated from the sixth season of La Casa de los Famosos this Wednesday during the semifinals. The Brazilian is one of the last finalists who spent over 100 days in the most famous house on Hispanic television. Piccioni is from Brazil but lives in the U.S. He has participated in and won several bodybuilding competitions.
Public SafetyMexican National Extradited to U.S. in Child Exploitation Case
A 39-year-old Mexican citizen, Abelardo Sanchez, is facing charges in McAllen federal court for producing child pornography. Arrested in Austria in December 2025, he was extradited to the U.S. on June 5, 2026, and made his initial court appearance on June 8. The indictment alleges that Sanchez operated an online account containing child sexual abuse material dating back to 2014, involving a minor victim from Texas. If convicted, he could face 25 to 50 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000. The case is part of the Department of Justice's Project Safe Childhood initiative.
Public SafetyHouston Man gets 32 years in Federal Prison for Trafficking Minors in Two Texas cities
Cristian Morris, a 23-year-old from Houston, has been sentenced to 32 years in federal prison for sex trafficking minors. A jury found him guilty of two counts of trafficking and enticing minors after a trial in March 2025. Morris recruited teenage girls, provided them with drugs, and posted explicit ads for commercial sex in Houston and Dallas. He was arrested on June 23, 2023, after advertising for a 15-year-old runaway. Following his prison term, he will serve 15 years of supervised release, during which he must comply with restrictions on accessing children and the internet. He will also register as a sex offender.
NationalBrownsville organizations sue feds over SpaceX land swap
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) - Three Brownsville organizations and the Center for Biological Diversity, based in Arizona, filed a lawsuit against the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service in Washington, D.C., on Wednesday over a land swap with SpaceX. The land swap, which will exchange 715 acres of the Lower Rio Grande Valley National Wildlife Refuge for
CommunityMcAllen Heritage Center Hosts “Veterans: Then & Now”, July 11th
The McAllen Heritage Center is hosting a special event titled “Veterans: Then & Now” on July 11th from 10 AM to 4 PM, honoring local veterans. This event offers a complimentary photoshoot and optional interviews for veterans of all ages and ranks. Participants will receive a professional 8x10 photograph, which will be displayed at the center and potentially at other venues. The interviews aim to capture personal stories and reflections from veterans, preserving their experiences for future generations. Complimentary refreshments will be provided. For more information, contact the Heritage Center at 956.687.1904 or via email.
NationalFeds Disable 13 Chinese Spying Sites Targeting U.S. Officials
Federal authorities have seized 13 internet domains linked to a scheme targeting U.S. individuals, particularly those with security clearances. These domains were used by foreign actors to lure Americans into revealing sensitive information through fake consulting job offers. Assistant Attorney General John A. Eisenberg emphasized the need for caution regarding suspicious online job offers. The FBI highlighted that these fraudulent sites were designed to exploit U.S. government employees. The domains included names like centrikglobalconsulting.com and rightinfoconsult.com. The FBI has placed warnings on these sites to prevent further illegal activities.
EducationUsing Art History to Change Student Views
Melissa Terry, an assistant professor at South Texas College, emphasizes the importance of teaching Art History beyond just facts and artifacts. Her goal is to foster empathy and broaden students' perspectives on different cultures and experiences. Recently awarded the NISOD Excellence Award, Terry has dedicated nearly a decade to teaching at STC. She incorporates interactive methods in her classes, such as group discussions and hands-on activities, to engage students. Notable initiatives include the 'She Roars' Women’s History Month series and educational trips to art museums, which have profoundly impacted her students' understanding of art and culture.
Public SafetyTexas DPS Increases Reward to $6,000 for 1992 Refugio County Cold Case
The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is asking for help in identifying a woman whose remains were discovered in Refugio County in 1992. The reward for information leading to an arrest has been raised to $6,000 by Texas Crime Stoppers. The woman's body was found by a pipeline crew on March 2, 1992, and investigators believe she died from a gunshot wound. She is described as being between 20 and 35 years old, approximately 5 feet 3 inches tall, and wearing distinctive clothing. Tips can be submitted via the Crime Stoppers hotline or the DPS website.
NationalExecution of Death Row Inmate Halted with Nitrogen Gas
A death row inmate whose execution was scheduled for Thursday was suddenly halted, expressing relief upon learning that a federal court ruled Alabama's use of nitrogen gas violates the constitutional ban on cruel and unusual punishment. Jeffery Lee, who has spent nearly three decades on death row, spoke by phone from the William C. Holman Correctional Facility in Atmore, Alabama, moments after a district judge agreed to stop his execution. Despite the ruling, his fate remains uncertain as state Attorney General Steve Marshall has filed an appeal, likely bringing the case before the Supreme Court, which has previously allowed Alabama to proceed with nitrogen executions after last-minute appeals. Lee was set to become the ninth person in the U.S. executed by nitrogen hypoxia, a method Alabama initiated in 2024. Although lethal injection remains the primary execution method in Alabama, obtaining the necessary drugs has become challenging in recent years. Lee was convicted in 2000 for the murders of Jimmy Ellis and Elaine Thompson, as well as the attempted murder of Helen King during a robbery. He expressed remorse for his actions and hopes his legal victory will prevent others from being executed by nitrogen gas.
BusinessTexas Power: The Essential Fuel Behind the Global AI Explosion
Texas is becoming a key player in the global AI landscape due to its abundant land and electricity generation opportunities. Currently, about 140 data center projects are underway in the state, surpassing Virginia as the leading hub for AI infrastructure. These multi-billion-dollar facilities promise well-paying jobs and boost local economies without overwhelming existing infrastructure. They generate significant tax revenue, benefiting counties, cities, and school districts, while also enhancing local services. Despite some initial disruptions during construction, Texas aims for a balanced approach to support both economic growth and community needs.
NationalUS Says It Strikes 'Multiple Targets' in Iran
The United States military announced on Wednesday that it had begun another round of strikes against Iran after President Donald Trump threatened to escalate attacks. The increasing assaults threaten to derail efforts to end the war, as Trump warned Tehran would 'pay the price' for the stalled negotiations. The US Central Command stated on social media that the military was targeting 'multiple objectives in Iran' in response to the 'ongoing and unprovoked aggression' of the Islamic Republic. These offensives came a day after the US attacked Iran following the crash of a US military helicopter in the Strait of Hormuz, which Trump attributed to Iran. The president urged Iran to sign an agreement to end the war. On Wednesday morning, the US military reported firing on a tanker attempting to transport oil from Iran in violation of its blockade on Iranian ports. Trump's comments highlighted the shifting approach of the US leader towards the war; earlier this week, he suggested that an agreement to end the conflict could be reached within days. Iran has shown resilience despite facing weeks of intense bombardments, banking on its ability to effectively close the Strait of Hormuz—a crucial passage for oil and natural gas—as a strong bargaining chip. Iran's UN envoy stated that the US should refrain from threatening the use of force if it wants an agreement. 'Iran has never negotiated under threats and pressure and will never submit to pressure or questioning,' Ambassador Amir Saeid Iravani told the UN Security Council on Wednesday. Nevertheless, both countries appear to be seeking a way to end the conflict if they can sell it as a victory at home. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu seems determined to pursue objectives that make compromise more difficult: the overthrow of Iran's theocratic government, the elimination of its nuclear program, and the destruction of the Iran-aligned political-military group Hezbollah in Lebanon. Trump claimed that the US has been secretly smuggling oil past Iranian forces in the Strait of Hormuz since last month, stating that ships were sailing at night, aided by the destruction of Iranian radar equipment. He said that as a result, over 100 million barrels of oil have evaded Iran's tight control over the strait. There was no immediate confirmation of that figure, which is approximately equivalent to five days of oil shipments through the waterway before the war began. The role of the military remains unclear. Captain Tim Hawkins, a spokesperson for Central Command, stated that US forces 'communicate and coordinate' with commercial vessels in the area but did not provide details on the military support being offered. The US military reported on Wednesday that a US aircraft fired 'precision munitions' at the engine room of the Palauan-flagged vessel M/T Settebello while it attempted to breach the naval blockade with a cargo of Iranian oil. This was the eighth merchant vessel disabled by US forces in the waters off Iran. India's Foreign Ministry reported that three Indian sailors were missing after the Settebello was hit, while 21 others were rescued. The statement did not mention the US military or the blockade. Hawkins from Central Command stated that US forces warned the crew before firing on the ship. The US military said that the strikes carried out on Wednesday morning targeted 'air defense, ground control stations, and surveillance radar sites.' Iran indicated that the US attacks hit two water storage facilities in its southern city of Sirik, temporarily cutting off water supply to thousands of people. So far, Central Command has not commented. Tehran later claimed responsibility for attacks in Kuwait, Bahrain, and Jordan. Jordan reported that it intercepted five incoming missiles, which Iran claimed were targeting a military base housing US aircraft. Bahrain and Kuwait reported intercepting incoming fire. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi condemned the US attacks as a violation of Iranian sovereignty. Spokesperson for the Foreign Ministry, Esmail Baghaei, stated in televised comments that, in light of the new attacks, Iran would reconsider its stance on negotiations to end the war. Efforts to mediate an agreement continued. Following consultations with the US, a delegation from Qatar arrived in Tehran for talks on Wednesday, according to a source familiar with the visit who requested anonymity due to the sensitive nature of the discussions. The exchanges occurred a day after a US Army attack helicopter crashed near the Strait of Hormuz. The helicopter collided with an Iranian drone, according to a US official who spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss an ongoing investigation. It was unclear whether the collision was intentional. A marine drone rescued both crew members from the helicopter, and Trump stated they were unharmed. Significant disagreements stand in the way of a swift peace agreement. Wary of high gasoline prices ahead of the November congressional elections, Trump appears to be seeking a quick victory. However, he also raises demands that will be difficult for Iran to accept. The US wants Iran to give up its stockpile of highly enriched uranium. Although the Islamic Republic insists its nuclear program is peaceful, that uranium is a short technical step away from weapon-grade levels. Iran refuses to relinquish the uranium and demands relief from sanctions. It also wants the release of frozen assets even before a final agreement, something Trump has rejected. It remains unclear how these differences can be bridged. In a post on Truth Social, Trump stated on Wednesday that Iran was taking 'too long to negotiate an agreement' and that 'they will now have to pay the price!!!' Meanwhile, Iran has insisted that any agreement to end the war must also end the fighting between its ally Hezbollah and Israel. In contrast, Israel has intensified its military campaign against the rebel group based in Lebanon. An airstrike on a village east of Tyre killed at least six people, according to Lebanon's state news agency. It reported that two others were killed by an Israeli drone strike on a car in the southern city of Sidon. This story was translated from English by an AP editor with the help of a generative artificial intelligence tool. An editor from Telemundo Digital reviewed the translation.
NationalSocial Security Fund Could Run Out by 2032, According to Report. How Would It Affect Your Benefits?
A trust fund for Social Security that pays benefits to tens of millions of Americans could deplete its reserves by the end of 2032, according to a new report released on Tuesday, which could prevent beneficiaries from receiving their full payments. The annual report indicates that the Old-Age and Survivors Insurance Trust Fund, which covers retirees and survivors of deceased workers, may only be able to pay 78% of benefits once its reserves are exhausted. In 2025, the report projected that the retirement trust fund would run out in 2033, but that estimate was later revised to the end of 2032. Social Security provides monthly payments to approximately 71 million beneficiaries in the United States. Social Security is primarily funded through payroll taxes paid by workers and employers. When benefit payments exceed the program's annual income, the Social Security Administration taps into the trust fund reserves to cover the shortfall.
Public SafetySuspect Identified in Ohio Festival Shooting that Left 12 Injured
Ohio police are searching for a 20-year-old suspect and a 'second shooter' in connection with a shooting that occurred Saturday during a neighborhood festival in Toledo, injuring 12 people. Ka Nye Taylor is wanted on 11 counts of felonious assault related to the shooting at the Old West End Festival, according to the Toledo Police Department's report on Wednesday. The department added that the suspect was identified after conducting interviews and following various investigative leads. Taylor is described as a Black male, 5 feet 11 inches tall, weighing 130 pounds, with black hair and brown eyes. Investigators have also received 'photographs of a second shooter' and are asking the public for assistance in identifying him. Both Crime Stoppers and the U.S. Marshals Service are offering rewards of $10,000 and $5,000, respectively, for information leading to their arrests. The mass shooting on Saturday left 12 injured and stemmed from 'a dispute between two rival groups,' police reported on Tuesday. The oldest victim is 61 years old and the youngest is 14, according to Lieutenant Dan Gerken. He added that most of the affected individuals are in their 20s. 'While investigators believe some of the victims were targeted, most of the injured appear to have been innocent bystanders caught in this senseless act of violence,' said Toledo Police Chief Michael Troendle on Tuesday. Police estimate that three of the victims were involved in the dispute between the groups, while the other nine were caught in the crossfire. All victims are expected to survive; nine have already been discharged from the hospital. Troendle stated on Tuesday that authorities 'are still trying to piece together' how the shooting unfolded on Saturday night. This note was translated with the help of an artificial intelligence tool. An editor from Telemundo Digital reviewed the translation. This article was originally published in English by Rebecca Cohen for our sister network NBC News.