NFIB Data Reveals Declining Small Business Optimism in September
The NFIB Small Business Optimism Index declined 0.8 points in September to 97.9, one-tenth of a point below the 52-year average of 98.0. The Uncertainty Index rose 1 point to 90, remaining well above the historical average of 68. Labor quality or availability remained the top reported issue for the third consecutive month.
260 Additional Cases Filed in the Southern District of Texas in the 1st Week...
Another 260 people face federal charges for immigration and border security-related crimes from Oct. 2-8.
Actor, Philanthropist, and Disability Rights Advocate RJ Mitte Dies at 34
A statement issued by RJ Mitte’s representatives on Monday, October 12, 2026, confirming his death at age 34.
City of Pharr Draws Record 30,000 Attendees to 4th Annual Avocado Festival
The City of Pharr is celebrating the success of its 4th Annual Avocado Festival, which drew a record-breaking crowd of over 30-thousand people to Downtown Pharr on Saturday, October 10, 2026, surpassing attendance at each of the event’s previous three years
Domestic Violence Claims 160 Lives in Texas During 2025, New Report Reveals
Domestic violence claimed the lives of 160 Texans in 2025, according to a report released October 1, 2026, by the Texas Council on Family Violence (TCFV), documenting the continuing impact of intimate partner violence across the state.
Chano’s 33rd Annual Birthday Bash and Christmas Toy Drive to Benefit Children at McAllen...
Organizers of Chano’s 33rd Annual Birthday Bash and Christmas Toy Drive are preparing for another holiday fundraiser benefiting migrant children served by Catholic Charities of the Rio Grande Valley at the McAllen Humanitarian Respite Center.
Over $20 Million In Career Training Grants Awarded Across Texas
Governor Greg Abbott announced 84 Jobs and Education for Texans (JET)grants totaling over $20 million have been awarded to Texas public junior, state, and technical colleges; school districts; and open-enrollment charter schools.
STC Staff of the Year turns Experience into Service
Valeria Tovar’s commitment to students recently earned her recognition as South Texas College’s inaugural 2026 Staff Employee of the Year award for the Technology Campus and Regional Center for Public Safety Excellence (RCPSE), one of five employees recognized collegewide.
Los Muertos Bailan Organizers Open Up Chalk Art Competition to Professional Artists Too
The City of Edinburg Cultural Arts Department invites local high school students to participate in the Los Muertos Bailan High School Chalk Art Competition on Saturday, October 24, 2026, as part of the City’s annual Día de los Muertos celebration.
Rio Grande Valley Construction and Agriculture Face Workforce Pressures
Employment declines in construction and agriculture are raising concerns about workforce availability across South Texas, according to an October 7, 2026, investigation by The Washington Post.
