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EducationZERA Coaching Offers Free Leadership Certificate for College Students
ZERA Coaching has announced a free Leadership Development Certificate Program for full-time college students enrolled at universities and colleges in the Rio Grande Valley.
PoliticsPowell Accuses Trump of Putting Federal Reserve Independence 'At Risk'
Washington — Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell stated on Wednesday that the institution's independence is 'at risk' due to legal actions taken by President Donald Trump's administration, including a criminal investigation against Powell that appears to have clear political motivations. 'I believe the Fed's independence is at risk,' Powell said during a press conference in response to a journalist's question. 'I think these legal challenges, if you want to call them that, are punishing the institution because of these issues,' the economist added. Powell, 73, is set to step down as Fed chairman on May 15 but announced that, contrary to tradition, he will remain on the board of governors at least until the investigation initiated by Trump against him is 'concluded definitively and transparently.' It is also believed that Powell's decision reflects his commitment to safeguarding the Fed's independence in monetary policy during a time when the president is fixated on lowering interest rates.
Public SafetyComey Appears in Court, Accused of Making Threats Against Trump
ALEXANDRIA, Virginia — Former FBI Director James Comey appeared in court on Wednesday, marking the beginning of a criminal case against him that legal experts say poses significant challenges for the prosecution and will likely be difficult for the Department of Justice to win. Comey, who did not enter a plea of guilty or not guilty, was formally charged in North Carolina on Tuesday with making threats against President Donald Trump. The charges stem from a photo he posted on social media last year, showing seashells arranged to form the numbers '86 47.' The Department of Justice argues that these numbers constituted a threat against Trump, the 47th president.
HealthTeen Vaping: The Risk Many Parents May Be Overlooking
Health experts are raising alarms about the dangers of e-cigarette use among minors, noting that while the overall number of users has declined, younger individuals are increasingly starting to use these products. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), no tobacco product is safe, and specialists warn that vaping can lead to rapid addiction. Dr. Carlos Medina, a family physician, explained that one of the biggest risks is the unknown content of these devices, stating, 'Sometimes they contain nicotine... but they may also contain marijuana or other substances... that's what's dangerous, especially when you don't know what's inside.' Additionally, side effects can be more severe in minors. 'It can cause sweating, rapid heartbeat, loss of color, vomiting... and in some cases even seizures,' he warned. The expert emphasized that young brains are more susceptible to addiction, explaining, 'It causes more addiction in kids... the brain doesn't fully develop until age 25.' Given this situation, he advises parents to talk openly with their children and 'especially discuss the risks of e-cigarettes,' he said. In Texas, since 2023, students caught using vape devices on school property can face immediate expulsion if the devices contain nicotine or THC. Furthermore, possession of these products by minors is illegal, and new restrictions targeting youth-oriented designs of these devices have been implemented as of September 2025. This article was originally reported for broadcast by Telemundo 40. Artificial intelligence tools assisted in creating the digital version, and a Telemundo Digital journalist edited the article for publication.
SportsFIFA Changes World Cup Rule on Yellow Cards to Prevent Suspensions After Group Stage
VANCOUVER, Canada — FIFA has modified its World Cup regulations regarding yellow cards to ensure fewer players face suspensions during crucial knockout-stage matches in the tournament set to take place in North America. The change was proposed on Tuesday during a meeting of FIFA's governing council. The additional yellow card amnesty will clear players' disciplinary records twice during the expanded tournament in North America. Later, FIFA issued a statement confirming the change.
Public SafetyU.S. Marshals Discuss Security Strategies in South Padre Island
Cameron County served as a meeting point for U.S. marshals from various regions, who gathered to strengthen security strategies and address challenges such as migration and organized crime. These meetings provide an opportunity to share experiences and coordinate efforts to improve public safety, especially in border areas like Texas and Arizona. Manuel Treviño, Cameron County Sheriff, stated, 'We all face the same challenges... especially when it comes to migration. The geography may differ, but the problems are similar.' Participants discussed strategies to combat crime, identify high-incidence areas, and track repeat offenders, particularly in cases involving firearms. Discussions also included leveraging technology and enhancing human resources. 'The most important aspect is this exchange... to understand different issues and learn how others have resolved them,' noted Cameron County Judge Eddie Treviño. Authorities agreed that the migration crisis has expanded the role of local agencies, requiring them to address human and drug trafficking while maintaining community safety. In tourist destinations like South Padre Island, interagency collaboration is crucial. 'We welcome over seven million visitors a year... these partnerships allow us to strengthen our ability to solve crimes,' said Claudine O’Carroll, the area's police chief. This article was originally reported for broadcast by Telemundo 40. Artificial intelligence tools assisted in creating the digital version, and a Telemundo Digital journalist edited the article for publication.
SportsTelemundo Station Group and SCORES Network Announce Winners of 'Athlete Poets' Ahead of the World Cup
Telemundo Station Group, part of NBCUniversal Local, and SCORES Network announced on Wednesday the 14 local winners and two national winners of 'Athlete Poets,' a nationwide celebration of youth poetry that blended soccer and spoken word poetry in anticipation of the FIFA World Cup 2026™. The initiative aimed to amplify the voices of students from communities across the country. Launched in March, the program invited students participating in SCORES programs to write and perform original poems in Spanish or bilingual formats (Spanish-English), inspired by themes like soccer, unity, and community. Over the past weeks, students participated in local showcases in markets such as Los Angeles, New York, Chicago, Boston, Washington D.C., Miami, and the San Francisco Bay Area, where 14 local winners were selected to advance to the national stage. The competition was judged by a distinguished panel, including award-winning author and poet Jennifer Maritza McCauley, writer and performer Melania Luisa Marte, and interdisciplinary artist and curator Kenya Bullock. Regional winners included: Emiley and Iriel (New York SCORES), Keisey and Angel (Miami SCORES), Miranda and Gustavo (Boston SCORES), Melany and Avery (DC SCORES), Aaliyah and Jostin (America SCORES Chicago), Eliza and Mateo (LA SCORES), and Heyzell and Santiago (America SCORES Bay Area). From this talented group, two students were selected as national winners: Santiago from America SCORES Bay Area with his poem 'De fútbol,' and Emiley from New York SCORES with her poem 'Cada segundo cuenta.' Santiago, an 11-year-old Mexican-American poet and athlete from Watsonville, California, enjoys soccer, basketball, writing poetry, and spending time with friends. Emiley, a 10-year-old Dominican-American poet and athlete from Inwood in Upper Manhattan, New York City, loves creating art, drawing, coloring, and styling hair with her friends. The national winners will be honored at the Soccer Legacy Gala on May 8 in San Jose, California, as part of the broader celebration leading up to the FIFA World Cup 2026™. The event pays tribute to the legacy of the 1994 World Cup and SCORES' ongoing efforts to create opportunities for youth through soccer, poetry, and service. José Cancela, president of Telemundo Station Group, stated, 'As momentum builds toward the FIFA World Cup 2026™, 'Athlete Poets' highlights the voices of a new generation shaped by both sport and storytelling. We are proud to showcase their work and elevate voices that reflect the powerful connection between culture, language, and sport.' Colin Schmidt, a member of the National Board of Directors for SCORES and Executive Director of America SCORES Bay Area, added, 'This next phase of 'Athlete Poets' underscores what SCORES strives to achieve every day: empowering youth to find their voice, build community, and grow as leaders through soccer, poetry, and service. Our partnership with Telemundo amplifies that impact, giving these young people the opportunity to share their stories and connect with audiences nationwide.' Throughout the program, Telemundo-owned stations amplified the voices and stories of participating students via television, streaming, and digital platforms, showcasing the power of storytelling and sports to unite communities. Participating Telemundo-owned stations included: Telemundo 47 New York / WNJU, Telemundo 52 Los Angeles / KVEA, Telemundo 51 Miami / WSCV, Telemundo 48 Bay Area / KSTS, Telemundo Boston / WNEU, Telemundo Chicago / WSNS, and Telemundo 44 Washington, D.C. / WZDC. 'Athlete Poets' builds on SCORES' longstanding mission to empower youth through soccer, poetry, and service, while reinforcing Telemundo's commitment to serving and uplifting local communities as anticipation grows for the FIFA World Cup 2026™.
BusinessCostco Makes a Change to Its Iconic $1.50 Hot Dog Combo
Costco is making a change to its famous $1.50 hot dog combo, which has maintained the same price for decades — but don't worry, the food won't be more expensive. The $1.50 combo is one of the most iconic items at Costco's food courts, with the company keeping its price unchanged since the 1980s despite inflation. Instead, the modification affects what customers can choose to accompany their meal. For over 40 years, the combo has been served with a 20-ounce soda, including free refills. Now, the chain is allowing customers to opt for a new choice: a 16.9-ounce Kirkland Signature bottled water. The traditional hot dog combo with soda remains available.
CommunityEdinburg Family Struggles to Stay Together After Father's Deportation
After the recent deportation of their father, Alfonso Herrera, who was arrested last week at his home by ICE agents, two of his sons have stepped up to take charge of the family business to support their family. The sons have taken on the responsibility of running the landscaping business their father left behind: 'My dad has everything to do the work... the tractor, the machine, the blower,' explained Edgar Herrera. Despite the challenging circumstances, they are determined to move forward: 'Unfortunately, this happened to us... and now we have to keep my dad's business going,' said Gabriel Herrera. The young men offer services such as lawn mowing, tree trimming, and garden maintenance, and they are committed to honoring existing agreements. 'We’re going to fulfill them... we won’t let anyone down,' added Gabriel. The situation has taken a financial toll on the family, prompting them to reach out to the community for work opportunities: 'We’re not asking for money... we can work,' emphasized Edgar. Both brothers agree that their priority is to support their family and keep alive the legacy their father built. Those interested in hiring their services can contact them at (956) 703-2080.
McAllenTraveling This Summer? TSA Offers Special Deal for PreCheck Enrollment
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has launched a limited-time promotion aimed at new TSA PreCheck applicants aged 30 or younger. From May 1 to May 31, eligible travelers can save $20 on their first five-year membership. The offer is available through TSA PreCheck’s three authorized enrollment providers: CLEAR, IDEMIA, and Telos. Travelers can sign up at any of the 1,300 TSA PreCheck locations nationwide, including community retail stores, not just airports.
PoliticsDemocrats hold 10-point edge over Republicans ahead of midterm elections: Poll
Democrats hold a 10-point advantage over Republicans on a generic congressional ballot, according to the latest in a series of polls showing the party in a strong position ahead of November’s midterm elections. In a three-day Emerson College Polling survey, conducted this past weekend, 50 percent of likely voters said they would back a generic
PoliticsSupreme Court Limits Use of Race in Redistricting in Victory for Republicans
WASHINGTON — The Supreme Court further weakened the Voting Rights Act on Wednesday by ruling that a congressional map in Louisiana constitutes unconstitutional racial gerrymandering, even though it was designed to comply with the historic law aimed at protecting minority voters. In a 6-3 decision led by the conservative majority, the justices indicated that states can almost never consider race when drawing maps to comply with Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act, which was created to safeguard minority voters who have long faced electoral discrimination. Justice Samuel Alito, writing for the majority, stated that while there may be extreme situations where the use of race is justified in map drawing, this was not the case in Louisiana. As a result, the new map was deemed an 'unconstitutional racial gerrymander,' he added. In a separate concurring opinion, conservative Justice Clarence Thomas, a longtime critic of the Voting Rights Act, argued that the ruling should 'largely put an end' to a system that he believes illegally divides people into districts based on race. The three liberal justices dissented, with Justice Elena Kagan warning that the 'consequences are likely to be broad and severe.'
EducationBrownsville ISD Opens Applications for New Superintendent Search
The Brownsville Independent School District (BISD) has announced the start of the process to select its next superintendent, with applications open until May 22 of this year. The Board of Trustees stated that the search will be conducted confidentially with the assistance of a specialized firm, and interested candidates must apply online before noon on the deadline. The ideal candidate profile includes experience in large school systems, academic leadership, financial management, and the ability to collaborate effectively with the community. BISD is one of the largest districts in South Texas, serving over 34,000 students across 50 campuses and employing nearly 6,000 staff members. The district operates with an annual budget exceeding $600 million and maintains a 95% graduation rate. For more information or to apply, interested individuals can visit the district's official website for this process.
BusinessGasoline Prices Reach $4.23 Per Gallon, Setting a New Annual High
Gasoline prices in the United States have hit a new record since the start of the conflict with Iran, rising to a national average of $4.23 per gallon this Wednesday, according to AAA. This milestone comes as oil prices have surged significantly over the past week amid a dual blockade — by the United States and Iran — of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint in the region for the transit of crude oil and petroleum products from the Persian Gulf. Brent crude oil, the international benchmark that influences U.S. gasoline prices, is now priced at $114.60, marking an increase of nearly 25% from its recent low on April 17 and just a few dollars shy of its recent peak of $118.
PoliticsInterest Rates Expected to Remain Stable Following Federal Reserve Meeting
The Federal Reserve is expected to keep interest rates steady this Wednesday, likely marking the final monetary policy meeting under Chairman Jerome Powell at the helm of the world's most influential central bank. Last week, the path was cleared for Kevin Warsh—President Donald Trump's nominee to succeed Powell—to be confirmed by the Senate after the Department of Justice announced the closure of a criminal investigation involving Powell and the central bank. The Senate Banking Committee is expected to vote Wednesday morning to advance Warsh's nomination to the full Senate for final confirmation.
PoliticsKey Day: Trump’s Attempt to End TPS for Haitians and Syrians Reaches Supreme Court
WASHINGTON — Addressing one of the most contentious aspects of the Trump administration's policies, the Supreme Court will discuss this Wednesday its attempt to eliminate legal protections for thousands of Haitian and Syrian immigrants in the United States. If the government wins the case, it will be able to proceed with its plan to revoke Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for approximately 350,000 Haitians and 6,000 Syrians. For now, the protections remain in place. The Trump administration has also sought to revoke TPS for immigrants from other countries, including El Salvador, Honduras, Nepal, and Afghanistan. The Supreme Court's decision could impact pending lower court cases involving countries such as Somalia, Myanmar, and Ethiopia.
Public SafetyMcAllen child hospitalized after vaping on school bus, authorities issue warning
Un niño de McAllen fue hospitalizado después de vapear en un autobús escolar, según informaron las autoridades locales. El incidente ha generado preocupación entre los funcionarios escolares y de salud, quienes han emitido una advertencia sobre los peligros del vapeo, especialmente entre los jóvenes. Las autoridades instan a los padres a hablar con sus hijos sobre los riesgos asociados con estos dispositivos electrónicos.
HealthInvestigation underway after confirmed measles case reported in Cameron County
Las autoridades de salud están llevando a cabo una investigación después de que se confirmara un caso de sarampión en el Condado de Cameron. Se insta a la comunidad a estar alerta y a verificar su estado de vacunación para prevenir la propagación de la enfermedad. Más detalles serán proporcionados a medida que avance la investigación.
WeatherAEP Texas provides hurricane preparedness demonstrations to Valley emergency crew members
AEP Texas llevó a cabo demostraciones prácticas de preparación para huracanes dirigidas a los equipos de emergencia en el Valle del Río Grande. Estas sesiones buscan fortalecer la capacidad de respuesta ante desastres naturales y garantizar la seguridad de las comunidades locales durante la temporada de huracanes.
PoliticsTexas DACA recipient will be allowed to return after Trump administration deported him
The Trump administration is allowing a South Texas resident to return to the U.S. after immigration officials deported him earlier this year, despite being a recipient of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals — an immigration status that protects immigrants from deportation. José Contreras Diaz, 30, was arrested and quickly deported from the Rio Grande Valley