Good morning, Edinburg.

At Alamo’s Watermelon Festival on May 10, reporter Omar Zapata enjoyed free watermelon and sampled a $7 bistec torta from Taqueria El Cien and brisket tacos with corn and watermelon lemonade from Holy Smokes BBQ & Catering.

Taqueria El Cien is at 31200 State Highway 100 and opens 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Monday through Thursday — Holy Smokes is open 6 to 10 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday, adding a local flavor to the event.

The Texas House nearly unanimously approved House Bill 4 — a measure to replace the STAAR test with a shorter exam to free up time for instruction — while Senate negotiations are expected to address key differences in the proposals.

UTRGV has opened a new Advanced Manufacturing Research Facility—led by its Institute for Advanced Manufacturing—to support projects in energy, defense and advanced manufacturing research.

The center partners with labs such as Los Alamos and Oak Ridge to train students and help local industries work on innovative research.

Hidalgo County and McAllen housing authorities announced Tuesday that 50 three-year rent vouchers will help former foster youth aged 18 to 26 secure safe housing.

Amanda Sepulveda, now 21 and soon starting nursing school, said the voucher program changed her life—she hopes it will help many avoid homelessness.

During National Police Week, a solemn ceremony in Mission honored fallen officers—among them Officer Jose Luis Espericueta and Officer Jorge Cabrera—who gave their lives in the line of duty.

The event offered comfort to families and underscored the risks faced by law enforcement.

Since 2012, DHR Health Women’s Hospital has offered the Nurse-Family Partnership Program that gives first-time moms nurse visits from pregnancy until their child turns 2 — these visits offer guidance on healthy births, child care, and reaching personal goals.

The program connects families to community resources and is free for those who meet income requirements — supporting new moms to build a healthier future.

5th Annual Lotería 5K Run

7:30-10:00 a.m. — Edinburg Municipal Park — Registration fees apply — Celebrate Lotería with a spirited 5K run featuring unique medals.