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CommunityMarking Two Centuries of Ties Between Texas and Coahuila
McAllen, Texas, celebrated 200 years of ties with Coahuila during its annual Morning of Diplomacy event. Government officials, business leaders, and educators gathered to honor the historical and cultural connections between the two regions, which date back to 1824. Mayor Javier Villalobos emphasized the importance of these relationships for future collaboration. The event featured remarks from Carlos Ealy, Assistant Secretary of State for Mexican and Border Affairs, and a keynote by Saltillo Mayor Javier Díaz Gonzalez, who discussed economic growth in his city. The gathering highlighted the ongoing partnerships that benefit trade, logistics, and investment in the Rio Grande Valley.
BusinessThis 10-Cent Coin Sold for $1.2 Million: The Story Behind Its Extraordinary Value
With its darkened silver surface and hues of copper and gold, the 10-cent coin over 130 years old may not seem particularly eye-catching at first glance. However, what might appear to be an old common coin is actually an extraordinary rarity among collectors: the 1894-S Barber. Nearly seven decades ago, this rarity caught the attention of a 19-year-old who bought the coin for $4,750 in 1957. Now, that same coin has sold for $1.2 million at auction. So, what lies behind the extraordinary value of this coin, and why was a young man willing to spend nearly thousands of dollars on it? Q. David Bowers, who was already a young coin collector, knew he wasn't bidding on just any piece. The 1894-S Barber dime, named after its designer Charles E. Barber, was auctioned 69 years ago at Stack's Bowers, an American auction house, with an estimated value of $5,000. Bowers ended up purchasing it for $4,750. The fact that he was willing to spend thousands on a mere 10-cent coin at the age of 19 quickly attracted national attention.
NationalRep. Gonzalez Issues Statement Following Passage of Continuing Resolution to Avert Shutdown
Congressman Vicente Gonzalez (TX-34) expressed his support for the Senate's continuing resolution, which funds the federal government until December 11, 2026. He emphasized the importance of maintaining essential services for South Texans, including veterans, seniors, and working families facing economic challenges. The resolution ensures military readiness and timely pay for troops. Gonzalez criticized short-term funding solutions and called on Speaker Mike Johnson and Republican leaders to collaborate on comprehensive funding bills that address costs and corruption in the administration. He highlighted the urgency as the end of the fiscal year approaches.
NationalUS Forecasts Venezuela's Oil Production Will Increase by 50% After New Agreements
WASHINGTON – US Energy Secretary Chris Wright insisted on Wednesday that, due to new agreements being signed with American oil companies, crude oil production in Venezuela will increase by 50% by 2027. "I said from the beginning, when President Trump approved these measures, that within 12 to 18 months Venezuelan production would increase by 50%. I stand by that prediction," Wright explained in an interview with CNBC in Caracas. "Today the daily production figure exceeds 1.2 million barrels per day. We believe that by the first half of next year we will significantly surpass one and a half million barrels daily, and that Venezuelan production will exceed two million barrels per day by the end of this decade," Wright emphasized. However, many experts remain skeptical of such predictions, considering it very difficult to achieve those volumes due to the deterioration of infrastructure, the need to inject significant amounts of capital, or the political uncertainty in Venezuela.
WeatherHeat advisory issued for Willacy and Cameron counties
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — The combination of hot temperatures and high humidity will result in dangerous heat index values Wednesday afternoon. Consequently, the National Weather Service has issued a heat advisory for Willacy and Cameron Counties from noon until 6 p.m. The heat index, or that "feels like" temperaturem, will reach as high as 115
Public SafetyRio Grande City Police Report Phone Line Issues
The Rio Grande City Police announced on Facebook that their phone line is experiencing technical difficulties. Authorities are asking residents to call 9-1-1 in case of an emergency while they work to resolve the issue. They also apologized for the inconvenience and thanked the community for their patience.
NationalCongressman Heard Sound Like 'Train Crash' During Flood in the Grand Canyon
ARIZONA – Republican Representative from Arizona, David Schweikert, said he heard something resembling 'a freight train crashing against a rock' when a sudden flood swept through the landscape near his rafting group on Saturday. Schweikert stated on Tuesday to NBC News from his office in Washington that the loud noise was followed by a powerful current of mud and debris-laden water. Two visitors died and another person remains missing after a sudden flood, triggered by a sudden downpour, briefly turned the Bright Angel Creek into a raging river. About 80 people were evacuated from nearby camping areas close to the historic Phantom Ranch within the park.
HealthCOVID-19, Flu, and RSV Vaccines: What Are the Latest Recommendations for Fall
The American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) has released its vaccination recommendations for the fall, urging people of all ages to stay up to date with COVID-19, influenza, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccines to reduce the risk of severe illness during the respiratory virus season. The recommendations were developed in coordination with the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), and the Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA) as part of the Vaccine Integrity Project. 'Vaccines are one of the greatest success stories in medicine. They prevent serious illness, reduce hospitalizations and long-term complications, and save lives,' said Dr. Sarah Nosal, president of the AAFP.
HealthThousands of Units of Chocolate Milk Withdrawn Due to Complaints of 'Unpleasant Odor'
More than 50,000 units of Horizon Organic chocolate milk distributed to grocery stores nationwide have been recalled. The company's decision came after consumers reported that some containers had an unpleasant appearance, taste, and odor. The brand indicated that they could be 'prematurely spoiled.' The popular Colorado-based brand, known for its recognizable red label, announced the voluntary recall on August 7. A compliance report from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) also indicated that the product 'has the potential to be spoiled.' What products are included in the recall? Horizon Organic reported that the affected chocolate milks are: 12 and 18-count packages of 8-ounce shelf-stable chocolate milk at 1%. These packages were distributed to retailers across the U.S. The affected chocolate milks have the following 'Best By' dates and UPC codes: 12-count packages: Item 136990, UPC 742365002700, 'Best By' dates: January 30, 2027; January 31, 2027; February 1, 2027; February 2, 2027; and February 3, 2027. 18-count packages: Item 136917, UPC 742365208867, 'Best By' dates: January 31, 2027; February 1, 2027; February 2, 2027. Horizon stated that it received complaints from consumers who found the packaging to be 'bulging.' They also noted that the milk in the cartons could be subject to 'premature spoilage and may have an unpleasant taste, odor, and/or texture.' Horizon indicated that an investigation is underway to determine the cause. Anyone who purchased the product is advised to dispose of it. Customers should also keep their receipt and can contact Horizon for refunds.
PoliticsThe Brownsville City Commission Approved the Fiscal Year 2027 Budget
The Brownsville City Commission has approved the fiscal year 2027 budget, which emphasizes public safety, essential services, infrastructure, economic development, and community quality of life improvements. Covering October 1, 2026, to September 30, 2027, the budget allocates approximately $246.3 million for various municipal expenditures. Public safety remains a top priority with about $71.6 million designated for this area. Additionally, nearly $28 million will be spent on public works, including streets and drainage. The budget also supports strategic investments in the Brownsville South Padre Island International Airport and industrial parks, as well as enhancing digital infrastructure for better connectivity.
HealthStudy Links Popular Sweetener to Increased Stroke Risk
A new study reveals that xylitol, a commonly used artificial sweetener found in numerous sugar-free candies, baked goods, nut butters, chewing gums, and even toothpaste, appears to be associated with serious cardiovascular events, including death or stroke. The study, published on August 26 by the European Society of Cardiology, was based on a long-term analysis of the effects of this additive, widely used to replace sugar in diets. While small amounts of this natural sugar alcohol are found in some foods, xylitol is often added in high quantities as an artificial sweetener to dozens of food, beverage, and dental products.
PoliticsTexas County Votes to Reduce Polling Places Ahead of Elections
Tarrant County officials voted to significantly reduce the number of polling places for the upcoming midterm elections, a decision that has sparked protests from Democrats and voting rights advocates. The plan will cut 92 polling locations, approximately a 30% decrease, leaving 224 for 1.3 million voters. The three Republican commissioners supported the measure, while the two Democrats opposed it. Critics argue this will disproportionately affect racial minorities, as many cuts are in areas with high minority populations. Proponents claim it will save money and that there are sufficient options for voters. The decision comes amid a competitive political landscape in Texas.
HealthCBP Intensifies Fight Against the New World Screwworm in Texas
The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), in collaboration with the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and other federal partners, is intensifying efforts to eradicate the New World screw-worm fly in Texas and New Mexico. This pest poses a serious threat to livestock, wildlife, pets, and occasionally humans. As of August 16, the USDA confirmed 47 cases, with 46 in Texas and one in New Mexico. CBP has facilitated the shipment of sterile flies from Panama to various airports in Texas to disrupt the pest's reproductive cycle. Authorities urge livestock owners to report any suspicious cases to animal health officials.
NationalTrump's $1 Coin Goes on Sale
A new one-dollar coin featuring President Donald Trump's face will go on sale this Wednesday, according to the U.S. Mint. The design, which includes Trump's likeness and the Great Seal of the United States, was approved by the Fine Arts Commission earlier this year. Trump expressed that having his image on a coin was 'very unusual' but felt 'honored.' Despite federal laws prohibiting living presidents' images on coins, the Treasury Secretary can authorize special minting. A roll of 25 coins will cost $61, while a bag of 100 will be $154.50, with some special coins marked 'July 4th.' Each household can initially order two rolls, but this limit will be lifted on Thursday at 2 PM ET.
Public SafetyBody of 59-Year-Old Man Found in Irrigation Canal in San Juan
Authorities in San Juan, Texas, are investigating the death of a 59-year-old man whose body was found in an irrigation canal on Tuesday night. The San Juan Police Department reported that they received a call around 5:56 p.m. from a witness who saw the man fall into the water. Upon arrival, officers and firefighters began searching but initially could not locate him. By 7:58 p.m., firefighters from San Juan, assisted by Pharr firefighters, recovered the man's body. His identity has not been disclosed as officials work to notify his family. Preliminary investigations suggest the fall was accidental.
NationalLindsay Clancy Trial: Jury Resumes Deliberations on Fifth Day
The jury in the murder trial of Lindsay Clancy resumed deliberations on Wednesday, after struggling to reach a unanimous decision regarding her criminal responsibility for the deaths of her three children. On Tuesday, the jury informed Judge William Sullivan that they could not agree, prompting him to encourage them to continue their discussions. Clancy, a 36-year-old former obstetric nurse, admits to strangling her children but claims she was under the influence of postpartum psychosis. The prosecution argues she was aware of her actions. If the jury cannot reach a verdict, the judge may declare a mistrial, leading to potential further legal actions.
NationalTurn in Tiger Woods' legal case in Florida: he plans to change his plea to guilty
Tiger Woods reached a no-contest plea agreement for a reckless driving charge stemming from a rollover accident in March near his Florida home. Appearing in Martin County court, Woods accepted a reduced charge after initially pleading not guilty to DUI. A judge suspended his driver's license for five years. The no-contest plea does not admit guilt but is treated as a conviction in the criminal justice system. Woods, 50, was arrested after his SUV collided with a truck, causing $5,000 in damages. He has faced multiple surgeries and accidents, impacting his golf career. He recently returned from treatment and remains involved with the PGA Tour.
Public SafetyBody recovered from San Juan canal after suspected accidental fall, police say
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) -- An investigation is underway after the body of a 59-year-old man was recovered in a canal on Tuesday evening in San Juan. Police believe that the man fell into the canal by accident. Officials say that at approximately 5:56 p.m., San Juan police and firefighters responded after a witness reported a
Public SafetyCouple arrested at Mission stash house had more than $700,000 in cash, 180 pounds of cocaine, DEA says
McALLEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration seized more than $700,000 and 180 pounds of cocaine on Sunday, when federal agents raided a stash house in Mission. At 8:50 p.m. on Sunday, the DEA and the Texas Department of Public Safety raided a stash house in Mission. Two people lived in the three-bedroom
Public SafetyScheduled road closures on frontage road in McAllen
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — Night closures are scheduled for a portion of the frontage road in McAllen. The Interstate 2 westbound frontage road between Jackson Road and Jackson Avenue in McAllen will be closed nightly from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m. starting Tuesday, Sept 1. Closures will be in effect daily through Friday, Sept. 4.