Community
Community news from McAllen and the Rio Grande Valley.
CommunityFood Bank RGV’s to 5th Anniversary Empty Bowls Lower Valley, June 25th
The Food Bank RGV is celebrating its 5th Anniversary of the Empty Bowls Lower Valley event, titled Noche Caliente, on June 25 from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at the Brownsville Events Center. This fundraiser includes tastings from local restaurants, a raffle, a silent auction, and a salsa contest where guests can vote for their favorite. Tickets are priced at $40 online and $45 at the door, with proceeds supporting meal programs for those in need across the Rio Grande Valley. Attendees will receive a hand-painted ceramic bowl as a reminder of the ongoing need for community support.
CommunityArmy Marksmanship Unit Celebrates 70th Anniversary
The U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit, established on February 16, 1956, celebrates its 70th anniversary this year. Initially created to enhance American marksmanship, the unit has evolved into the Army's leading authority on training and competitive shooting. Over the decades, it has significantly contributed to soldier readiness and small-arms development, including advancements in ammunition and weapon systems. The unit conducts around 80 training missions annually, instructing over 4,000 soldiers and improving marksmanship fluency and lethality rates. As it moves into its eighth decade, the unit's mission remains focused on advancing marksmanship and supporting the Army's competitive edge.
CommunityIt about time: Rio Grande Valley man donates kidney to save his father life
As Father's Day nears, DHR Health highlighted a touching story of a father-son duo from the Rio Grande Valley. Luis Fernando Gonzalez, who has struggled with kidney disease since 2020, faced severe health issues by 2022, with kidney function dropping to 3%. His son, Ivan, decided to donate a kidney, stating it took him no time to agree. The transplant occurred in October 2022, and Ivan described it as one of the most rewarding experiences of his life. The family emphasized the importance of living donations and the availability of transplant services locally, eliminating the need to travel to larger cities.
CommunityWATCH: Sunday Mass, June 14, 2026
On June 14, 2026, the Catholic Diocese of Brownsville will broadcast Sunday Mass live at 11 a.m. Viewers can tune in on SOMOS EL VALLE Channel 5.2 or Cable 1240. For those unable to watch the video, additional options are available. This event aims to connect the community through faith and worship.
CommunityValleyCentral Weekend Report: Top Valley news, updates this week
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — On this week’s episode of ValleyCentral Weekend Report, we bring you the biggest stories making headlines, along with a closer look at some of the people and moments shaping the Rio Grande Valley. We begin with the top stories of the week, including concerns surrounding the new world screwworm, which has now made its
CommunityBrownsville splash pad remains closed following concerns from parents
A splash pad at Ernesto Gamez Cascade Park in Brownsville is closed after parents reported injuries from slips. Officials from Cameron County Drainage District Number One assessed the situation and decided to shut it down for safety. The area will be treated with a slip-resistant coating to prevent future accidents. The splash pad is expected to reopen next week, depending on weather conditions. Safety warnings are posted, and a sign indicates that the district is not liable for injuries. Local resident Pedro Soto expressed disappointment over the closure but emphasized the importance of safety for children.
CommunitySouth Padre Island mourns loss of council member Ken Medders Jr.
Ken Medders Jr., a council member of South Padre Island, has passed away, as announced by the city on Saturday. Medders, who served as an alderman in the 1990s and was elected to the city council in November 2017, was known for his dedication to the community and environmental conservation. Mayor Patrick McNulty expressed that Medders' sudden death is a significant loss for the community, highlighting his passion for the island. Cameron County Judge Eddie Trevino Jr. also shared his condolences, noting Medders' respected presence in the community. Details regarding memorial services will be shared by his family.
CommunityStreet cleanup event held in Brownsville ahead of weekend rain in the forecast
Brownsville community leaders organized an emergency cleanup event on Friday to remove trash from streets in anticipation of heavy rain and potential flooding. Cameron County Judge Eddie Treviño, Jr. warned that rainfall is expected from Monday evening through Wednesday. The cleanup, led by District 3 Commissioner Gustavo De Leon, focused on the Central Avenue area, allowing residents to drop off unwanted items. Volunteers, including Kenny Robertson who disposed of an old sofa, and Jason Medina from STX Metal Trades, collected trash throughout neighborhoods. Officials estimate at least 35,000 pounds of trash will be collected, surpassing previous events' averages.
CommunityHarlingen hosts free FIFA World Cup watch party in downtown plaza
Harlingen is organizing a free FIFA World Cup watch party at Lozano Plaza for fans of Team USA. The event begins at 7 p.m., with the match against Paraguay starting at 8 p.m. Attendees can enjoy drinks from the RGV Red Crowns, who will be selling their beers on-site. Visit Harlingen Director Cassandra Consiglio encourages visitors to support local businesses by shopping and dining in the area. Additionally, another watch party is scheduled for next Thursday at Lozano Plaza to cheer on Mexico.
CommunityLos Fresnos dancer performs at FIFA World Cup opening ceremony
Raul Passamentt, a 24-year-old professional dancer from Los Fresnos, showcased his talent at the FIFA World Cup opening ceremony held at Azteca Stadium in Mexico City. Performing alongside renowned Mexican singer Belinda, Passamentt expressed immense pride in representing his community from the Rio Grande Valley. He previously appeared in Channel 5 News' Made in the 956 series as a member of the Ballet Folklórico de México de Amalia Hernández. Now based in Mexico City, Passamentt aims to honor his roots in every performance, reflecting on the electrifying atmosphere of the stadium filled with fans during the event.
CommunityWinners Announced in the 2026 Art Pathways Contest
The McAllen Public Library has announced the winners of the 2026 Art Pathways Contest, aimed at encouraging artistic expression among local youth. Open to students with a McAllen library card, the contest featured original artwork celebrating creativity and community spirit. Winning pieces, including those depicting Marty the Library Cat, are displayed at library locations. Mayor Javier Villalobos praised the initiative for fostering imagination and community engagement, while Library Director Kate Horan highlighted the importance of libraries as spaces for creativity. Winners were recognized across various age groups and artistic styles, showcasing the talent of McAllen's young artists.
CommunityTelemundo Announces Premiere of the Hit Miniseries 'El Turco,' Starring Can Yaman
Telemundo announced on Friday the premiere of 'El Turco,' the acclaimed Turkish miniseries starring international star Can Yaman (Hasan Balaban), Greta Ferro (Gloria), and Will Kemp (Marco), set to air on Tuesday, July 7, at 10 PM/9C as part of Julio Histórico, a special programming night featuring three of the summer's most anticipated premieres. 'El Turco' is part of a highly anticipated triple premiere night that also includes the U.S. debut of Operación Triunfo and the return of 'El Señor de los Cielos' for its final season, offering unprecedented entertainment for Hispanic audiences. Before its U.S. premiere, 'El Turco' established itself as an international phenomenon, securing distribution in over 20 territories across Europe, America, the Middle East, Africa, and Central Asia. The production has captivated audiences worldwide with its striking blend of action, romance, and period drama. The miniseries tells the story of Hasan Balaban, a warrior betrayed by his own blood. Injured and pursued, he finds refuge in a small village where his presence ignites a spark of hope among those living under a brutal king. When Balaban meets Gloria, a brave and determined woman fighting to protect her people, an intense passion arises between them, capable of challenging the pain of the past and the shadows that haunt him. However, Balaban's greatest enemy is not a stranger: it is Marco, the powerful commander who rules the region... and his own brother. Separated by irreversible decisions and wounds that never healed, Balaban and Marco represent two opposing paths: one guided by honor and the desire for redemption; the other, by ambition and the thirst for power. Amidst betrayals, fragile alliances, and adrenaline-fueled battles, 'El Turco' becomes an epic tale where love blossoms amidst chaos and where two brothers are destined to confront each other, even at the cost of losing everything. Can Yaman and Greta Ferro star in 'El Turco.' Can Yaman is one of the most recognized Turkish stars worldwide, thanks to his leading roles in series like 'Dolunay,' 'Bay Yanlış,' and 'Erkenci Kuş,' the latter of which not only brought him fame but also earned him a Golden Butterfly Award for Best Romantic Comedy Actor. Born in 1989 in Suadiye, Istanbul, he is an only child and the nephew of football coach Fuat Yaman. He studied law and speaks Turkish, Italian, German, English, and Spanish fluently. In 2025, Can Yaman transformed to star in the international series 'Sandokan: The Pirate Prince,' where he portrays the legendary pirate known as 'The Tiger of Malaysia.' The ambitious production, available on streaming platforms, features a grand visual display and presents the iconic character fighting on the island of Mompracem. His role in 'El Turco' was pivotal in securing this lead role, as it is a five-episode series that combines action, romance, and historical drama in an exciting saga about loyalty, sacrifice, family, and the relentless pursuit of justice, which you can enjoy on Telemundo starting July 7. For more information, visit Telemundo.com and follow @Telemundo and @TelemundoSeries on social media using the hashtag #ElTurco.
CommunityPharr Breaks Ground on Landmark Multi-Use Facility to Enhance Municipal Services and Emergency Readiness
Pharr city officials and community leaders held a groundbreaking ceremony on Wednesday for a new Multi-Use Facility aimed at enhancing municipal services and emergency preparedness. The facility will span 83,567 square feet on a 14.6-acre site at U.S. Highway 281 and Ferguson Avenue. This significant investment will combine government services, educational programs, and civic events, serving as a hub for emergency management. With flexible event spaces and advanced technology, the facility is expected to be completed by the first quarter of 2028 and will create 400 to 500 construction jobs, benefiting local contractors and suppliers.
CommunityKeep McAllen Beautiful Recognized as Gold Star Affiliate
Keep McAllen Beautiful (KMB) has been awarded the Gold Star Affiliate designation by Keep Texas Beautiful (KTB), recognizing its significant contributions to community improvement. This honor is given to affiliates that demonstrate leadership through impactful programs and strong volunteer engagement. In 2025, KMB mobilized 3,146 volunteers, collecting 613 tons of trash, planting 291 trees, and painting homes and murals throughout McAllen. The efforts resulted in a volunteer hour value of $254,941. City Manager Isaac J. Tawil praised KMB for its dedication to enhancing the city's beauty, reflecting community pride and commitment to service.
CommunityHe’s a model and was born in Spain: meet the winner of La Casa de los Famosos 2026
La Casa de los Famosos 2026 concluded with Spanish model Fabio Agostini winning the sixth season of the popular Telemundo reality show. After over 110 days of competition, he took home $200,000, defeating strong contenders like former Miss Dominican Republic Celinee Santos, who placed second, and singer Luis Coronel. Fabio, 36, from Las Palmas, Spain, has over 3 million Instagram followers and gained fame in Latin America through various reality shows. His journey in La Casa de los Famosos included intense rivalries and a brief romance with Mexican artist Jeni de la Vega.
CommunityUnaccompanied veteran laid to rest
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — On Thursday, the Rio Grande Valley State Veterans Cemetery laid to rest a U.S. Navy Veteran Fireman Apprentice. Robert Joseph Ruggeri, born on March 13, 1949, served from October 1968 to June 1970. FA Ruggeri received the National Defense Service Medal for his service to our nation. Ruggeri was not reported
Community'Fishing with the Friendly Judge' event continues in Port Isabel
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — The saying goes, "Give a man a fish, you feed him for a day; teach a man to fish, you feed him for a lifetime." That’s the theme behind this year’s “Fishing with the Friendly Judge” event hosted by Cameron County Justice of the Peace Pct. 1 Judge Benito “Bo” Ochoa.
CommunityCameron County Irrigation District No. 2 remove invasive flowers from San Benito resaca
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — Cameron County Irrigation District No. 2 is working to clean up the resaca in San Benito. Workers with Cameron County Irrigation District No. 2 and Cameron County Drainage District No. 3 are removing water hyacinths from the water. Hyacinthus is a spring-blooming flower. Cameron County Irrigation District No. 2 General Manager
CommunityMission sets up wildlife habitat zone after alligator sighting near RV resort
Mission city officials have established a wildlife habitat zone following an alligator sighting near the Seven Oaks RV Resort. The alligator was first spotted weeks ago near Casino Drive and was last seen recently. The new ordinance enables the city to install warning signs in the area to protect both the wildlife and the public. Juliana Martinez Cano, the Mission Animal Control and Shelter Manager, emphasized the importance of the signs, which will advise against feeding the alligator and prohibit swimming in the vicinity. Animal control officers will continue to monitor the area regularly.