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NationalAfter Rubio's Criticism, Sheinbaum Urges the U.S. Not to Use Mexico in 'Their Electoral Campaign'
President Claudia Sheinbaum once again rejected the claims made by U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who stated that drug cartels are out of control in Mexico and attributed these remarks to the 'electoral campaign' in the United States ahead of the midterm elections in November. 'I believe this is part of the electoral campaign in the United States. They have an election in November, and as we have said, they should not use Mexico in their campaign. The United States has its problems. Therefore, Mexico should not be used as part of the electoral campaign,' Sheinbaum emphasized during her regular morning press conference. The president responded to Rubio's comments, who claimed during a visit to Ecuador on Wednesday that 'there are territories, vast territories in Mexico, that are not governed by the state, but are controlled by drug trafficking organizations,' a statement that has been reiterated by U.S. President Donald Trump on other occasions. 'Mexico is not anyone's piñata; Mexico deserves respect. We do not interfere in their elections,' she added.
CommunityTwenty-Five Years of Missing Someone
As the 25th anniversary of September 11 approaches, families continue to feel the profound absence of their loved ones lost in the attacks. Public commemorations, such as ceremonies and moments of silence, serve to honor those who died, reminding families that their loved ones are not just statistics. Each name on a memorial represents a unique life filled with memories, laughter, and plans. While the nation pauses to remember collectively, families experience their grief daily, triggered by personal milestones and memories. This anniversary highlights the enduring impact of loss and the importance of remembrance in their lives.
PoliticsJudge recommends border wall construction near Santa Ana National Wildlife Refuge remain paused
McALLEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — A federal judge on Thursday recommended that border wall construction near the Santa Ana National Wildlife Refuge remain paused until trespassing claims against the government’s construction contractors are resolved. After reviewing a lawsuit filed by Hidalgo County Irrigation District #2, which owns a canal near the wildlife refuge, U.S. Magistrate Judge
CommunityFrontera Fest 2026 officially canceled, tickets being refunded
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — Officials of Frontera Fest have announced the festival has been cancelled. According to a news release, the Frontera Festival 2026 has been canceled due to what officials say are "circumstances beyond the control of the promoters." ValleyCentral has spoken with the Frontera Fest President, Louie Guillen, who said, "We tried hard for
BusinessFluidstack's Data Center Moves Forward Outside Harlingen
What began as negotiations to connect a mega technology project to the local grid has taken a definitive turn. Fluidstack, a provider of computing infrastructure for Artificial Intelligence (AI), will proceed with the construction of its data center in an unincorporated area of Cameron County, independently of the City of Harlingen. The news was confirmed following the issuance of a development and infrastructure permit by Cameron County, which guarantees the project an alternative stormwater drainage route. With this step, Harlingen loses jurisdiction over the data center and the opportunity to receive a $20 million investment proposal in infrastructure, funds that will now go to the county. From the initial discussions in the City Commission after the meeting on September 2, 2026, the official stance was that the data center would be built with or without Harlingen, as the land is outside its municipal boundaries. The only point of contact was the company's request to connect to a municipal drainage channel. In exchange, Harlingen was evaluating $7 million in mitigation works such as channel expansion and detention ponds, which, according to technical analyses, would have prevented the severe flooding experienced in the airport area in March 2025. Although it was claimed on social media that the city could halt the project, the option of alternative drainage through the county was always on the table and is now a reality. The main question for municipal authorities is whether Fluidstack will construct those detention works with the same projected capacity or if the airport area will remain vulnerable to future storms. This resolution also highlighted a lack of communication between local governments. While Harlingen held public hearings and informed residents, Cameron County approved the permits independently without formally notifying the city. Harlingen officials stated they will continue to demand answers to prevent development outside their limits from affecting the water system of their residents.
Public SafetyPolice activity triggers lockdowns at five Brownsville schools
HARLINGEN Texas (ValleyCentral) — Brownsville police say they are searching for a suspect in the Southmost area of the city and that has lead to several school lockdowns. The Brownsville Independent School District announced that five schools have been placed in lockdown, secure and hold due to police activity in the surrounding areas. According to
BusinessBBB RGV warns consumers over online roofing posts
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — The Better Business Bureau Rio Grande Valley is advising consumers regarding a misleading Facebook post. According to the news release from the BBB Rio Grande Valley, the post is claiming that Habitat for Humanity is offering free roof installation, replacement, or repair services for seniors over the age of 50; however, when
WeatherWe are at the peak of hurricane season
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) - We have officially reached what, historically, is the peak of the Atlantic hurricane season. While we tend to see most activity at this point, we do usually see quite a bit of activity well into the month of October. This season has been anything but "usual." We have not had any
WeatherWe Are At The Peak Of Hurricane Season
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) - We have officially reached what, historically, is the peak of the Atlantic hurricane season. While we tend to see most activity at this point, we do usually see quite a bit of activity well into the month of October. This season has been anything but "usual." We have not had any
EducationTSC Calls on Student Artists and Writers to Submit Work for Scorpion’s Quill Issue 3
Texas Southmost College is calling on students, faculty, and staff to submit original works for the third issue of Scorpion’s Quill, its annual literary and arts journal. The deadline for submissions is October 31, 2026. The journal accepts poetry, short stories, memoirs, and visual art, including drawings and photography. TSC English Instructor Amanda Utzman, who oversees the journal, emphasized its popularity and its role in encouraging students to express themselves creatively. Contributors will be celebrated in a showcase in spring 2027, and being published can enhance students' resumes as a valuable credential.
CommunityFrontera Fest 2026 Officially Canceled in Harlingen
HARLINGEN, Texas — Organizers of Frontera Fest 2026 have officially announced the cancellation of the event that was set to take place in Harlingen, confirming that ticket buyers and participating vendors will receive refunds. In a statement posted on their social media, the promoters indicated that the decision was made due to 'circumstances beyond the promoters' control,' without providing further details on the reasons for the festival's cancellation. The organizers expressed regret over the decision and thanked artists, vendors, sponsors, workers, collaborators, and community members who supported the project. According to the announcement, all purchased tickets will be automatically refunded using the original payment method. Vendors who paid for a space at the festival will also receive a full refund in the same manner. Meanwhile, the City of Harlingen announced via a social media post that it was notified of the cancellation by promoter Louie Guillen and clarified that Frontera Fest was not an event organized or sponsored by the city. The city stated that inquiries related to ticket refunds or vendor spaces should be directed to Guillen at 956-742-2907 or via email at admin@fronterafest.net. Additionally, food vendors who specifically obtained a health permit from the City of Harlingen for Frontera Fest can request a refund for that permit by contacting the Health Department at 956-216-5220 or cortiz@harlingentx.gov. So far, organizers have not indicated whether the festival will be rescheduled for a later date.
Public SafetyPickup Truck Overturns After Accident on I-69C Exit in Edinburg
The Edinburg Police Department responded around noon to a vehicle accident on the I-69C highway. According to authorities, a red Ford pickup was traveling north on the I-69C when it took the exit located at block 200 of South 25th Avenue. While attempting to change lanes, the vehicle reportedly failed to maintain controlled speed. The driver lost control of the pickup, which ended up overturned on its side. A passing motorist helped the driver out of the vehicle before emergency crews arrived. The driver was taken to a local hospital for medical attention. Authorities indicated that the injuries were not life-threatening. So far, no further details have been released regarding the circumstances that led to the accident.
CommunityCity of Pharr and Museum of South Texas History Unveil “Pharr: Packed with History” Exhibit
The City of Pharr and the Museum of South Texas History launched the exhibit "Pharr: Packed with History" on September 2 at the Pharr Memorial Library. This marks the first time MOSTHistory has created an exhibit specifically for a city. The display features historical artifacts, photographs, and citrus-related materials that showcase Pharr's evolution from an agricultural community to a hub of international trade. Visitors can explore the city’s agricultural roots and the significance of the Pharr International Bridge. The exhibit is free and open to the public until December 13, 2026, during library hours.
BusinessPharr Global Business Hub Marks Hispanic Heritage Month with U.S.–Mexico Focus
In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, the Pharr Global Business Hub will host an event titled "Celebrating Heritage Beyond the Border" on September 17, from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. This gathering aims to emphasize the cultural and economic ties between the U.S. and Mexico, featuring a roundtable discussion with business and community leaders. Victor Perez, President of Pharr EDC, highlighted Pharr's strategic position as a trade gateway. The event will also include a networking mixer for attendees to foster connections and explore new business opportunities. Associate Consul Jesus Alejandro Cano Sanchez will be a featured guest.
EducationValente Rodriguez Brings Hollywood Experience to South Texas ISD World Scholars
Valente Rodriguez, a Rio Grande Valley native and professional actor, visited South Texas ISD World Scholars Theatre Arts students in Edinburg to share his extensive experience in the entertainment industry. During his visit, he engaged with students through discussions about his career and led acting exercises, providing invaluable guidance. Rodriguez, known for his role as Ernesto 'Ernie' Cardenas on the ABC sitcom George Lopez, emphasized the importance of local theatrical training. His journey from the Valley to Hollywood serves as inspiration for aspiring performers, highlighting the potential for success in the arts. South Texas ISD expressed gratitude for his visit.
CommunityMission Historical Museum to Celebrate Día de los Muertos
The Mission Historical Museum will host its annual Día de los Muertos Folklife Festival on Saturday, October 24, 2026, from 2 to 5 p.m. This free event will take place at 900 Doherty Ave. in Mission, Texas, and will feature live entertainment, food and merchandise vendors, and the Community Altar Exhibit. Día de los Muertos, a tradition rooted in Mesoamerican cultures, celebrates the lives of deceased loved ones with ofrendas, marigolds, and other offerings. The festival aims to honor these customs and provide a space for families to connect and remember their heritage. For vendor inquiries, call 956-580-8646.
NationalBattle for the 2030 World Cup Final: Spain and Morocco Want to Host
Morocco and Spain are in discussions over the right to host the final of the 2030 World Cup, while FIFA's beleaguered president, Gianni Infantino, lurks behind the scenes. FIFA has yet to officially announce which country will host the most important match of the biggest football event. Although the 2026 edition just concluded with Spain winning the title this summer, Moroccan and Spanish officials are asserting their claim to host the next final. The competition for the match comes as Spain is still reeling from a massive border crossing of tens of thousands of migrants who surged from Morocco into the Spanish North African enclave at the end of July. A significant match for two proud countries. The head of Moroccan football boasted on Thursday that his country had it secured. 'The city of Benslimane will host the World Cup final. Whether you like it or not, and if anyone wants to talk about anything else, let them talk,' said Fouzi Lakjaa, president of the Moroccan federation, at a political rally.
NationalApple Unveils First Foldable iPhone with $1,999 Starting Price
Apple has launched the iPhone Duo, its first foldable smartphone, featuring a 7.6-inch inner display for multitasking and a 5.4-inch outer display. Priced at $1,999, preorders will start on October 16, with availability in over 70 countries, including the U.S. and Mexico, beginning October 23. The device, made from grade 5 titanium, includes advanced features like a 48-megapixel camera, a new A20 Pro chip, and redesigned iOS 27 for enhanced multitasking. The iPhone Duo is designed for durability with an IP68 rating and offers various storage options up to 2TB.
CommunityAmerica Ferrera to Take the Stage at Texas Conference for Women
America Ferrera, the Emmy-winning and Academy Award-nominated actor, will speak at the Texas Conference for Women on October 5. This event will feature over 40 experts focusing on professional growth, leadership, and career development. Ferrera's message, particularly relevant during Hispanic Heritage Month, will emphasize embracing one's unique qualities rather than conforming to industry expectations. The conference expects more than 9,000 attendees from various fields, offering networking opportunities and practical insights. For 27 years, the Texas Conference for Women has aimed to empower women through shared experiences and professional development.
NationalTrump Proposes $5,000 Payments if Republicans Retain Congress
During a Republican Party convention in Dallas, President Donald Trump proposed a $5,000 payment to adult U.S. citizens if Republicans retain control of Congress in the upcoming midterm elections on November 3. He referred to this payment as the 'Trump dividend' during his speech at the American Airlines Center. However, Trump did not clarify how the payments would be funded or the eligibility criteria beyond citizenship. Estimates suggest that providing this payment to approximately 240 million adults could cost around $1.2 trillion. The proposal remains unapproved and raises questions about its feasibility and legality.