Good morning, Brownsville.

Three UT-RGV professors explain how Spanish supplies and troops on the Gulf Coast helped shape American independence.

Their guest column details covert routes from Havana to New Orleans — a reminder of our region's deep history.

San Benito CISD secured a $1.85 million Cycle 13 ACE grant to expand free after-school programs on nine campuses for the next three years (about 150 students per 600-student campus may benefit), district superintendent Fred Perez said.

Texas A&M University-Kingsville will open its College of Nursing and Health Professions soon to boost local healthcare education, and is accepting applications for its RN-to-BSN program with classes starting next month (state approval is expected in the spring for a pre-licensure program set for summer 2027).

Hidalgo County Precinct 3 is investing $850K to upgrade safety along the hike and bike trail on North Breyfogle Road - seven security cameras and emergency 911 call boxes will be installed in late August, following the addition of 151 solar lights already in place.

Texas Health and Human Services Commission referred allegations that Mission Regional Medical Center in Mission and Knapp Medical Center in Weslaco promoted birth tourism to Attorney General Ken Paxton; the review began after Gov. Abbott requested probes into ads using a defunct website (havemybabyinTEXAS.com).

Residents must complete a survey by week's end for Brownsville's 20-year Downtown Renaissance Master Plan, which includes Adams Street walkability upgrades, expanded parking near the cathedral and Market Square, and added trolley and bike lanes.

The city will review feedback before finalizing the plan in August.

Brownsville firefighters warn residents that everyday items like portable chargers, hand sanitizer, and gel toys can overheat and explode if left in hot cars.

They report that an explosion last month caused car damage and second-degree burns, so families should check and follow safety guidelines.

Local health officials say there is no outbreak of cyclosporiasis in the RGV after recording eight cases in Hidalgo County and two in Cameron County this year; they advise anyone with prolonged diarrhea to seek medical care.