Community
Community news from McAllen and the Rio Grande Valley.
Community"The American Dream Didn't Belong to Me": Maluma, More Latino Than Ever
MEXICO CITY – When Juan Luis Londoño began to forge the artistic name of Maluma on stages around the world, he carried within him, like many Latin Americans, the so-called 'American Dream,' an illusion that ultimately distanced him from his accent, his ancestors, and his Latin roots, which he recovers in his seventh and most recent studio album, 'Loco x volver.' 'I looked in the mirror and it was something I wasn't comfortable with because I was chasing a dream (American) that didn't belong to me,' the 'pretty boy' responded to a question from EFE during his visit to Mexico, as one of the thousands of Colombians who arrived in the Mexican capital hours before the Colombia vs. Uzbekistan match in the World Cup. The singer proudly embraces his identity. He staunchly defends his name, Juan Luis, even above his stage name, and wears the jersey with the colors of the Colombian flag with pride, convinced that today the score will favor his team. With his feet firmly planted in his homeland, Medellín, Maluma appreciates the reception of his music in the United States and acknowledges his desire for this country to be part of his next tour; however, he asserts that he will not trade his culture for anything. 'I’m going to stand on that stage in the United States and say: 'A Colombian in the United States,' and not a Colombian wanting to be part of U.S. culture,' the artist states while discussing his latest album, which features Latin collaborations, including the regional Mexican track 'Una vida juntos,' a song he shares with Grupo Frontera and El Bogueto.
CommunityMetro McAllen Launches Free Downtown Bus Circulator
Metro McAllen has launched a new free Downtown Circulator service aimed at helping both residents and visitors navigate the downtown area. Operating every Friday and Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., the circulator connects popular destinations including McAllen Central Station, the Downtown McAllen Parking Garage, and McAllen City Hall. This initiative is part of Metro McAllen's efforts to enhance connectivity and accessibility in the city, aligning with its transit plan to increase ridership and reduce traffic congestion. The service is designed to make public transportation a preferred choice for everyone in McAllen.
CommunityDHR Health To Host 20th Annual “Fishing for Hope” Tournament, August 22nd
DHR Health is hosting its 20th Annual Fishing for Hope Tournament on August 22, 2026, at Jim’s Pier on South Padre Island. This event aims to raise funds for the Hope Family Health Center, a non-profit organization that provides essential medical and behavioral health services to uninsured and low-income families in the Rio Grande Valley. Minerva Echols, Director of the Edinburg Conference Center at Renaissance, emphasized the tournament's role in showcasing community generosity and ensuring access to healthcare for those in need. All proceeds from the tournament will directly support the health center's services.
CommunityValley family shares their story after their child became an organ donor
In Texas, 10,000 individuals are currently awaiting organ transplants. Channel 5 News, in collaboration with the Texas Organ Sharing Alliance, aims to increase organ donor registrations, honoring the memory of former sports director Dave Brown. Sylvia and Gabriel Espinoza shared their personal experience after their child became an organ donor, emphasizing the life-saving potential of such donations, as one donor can save up to eight lives. An organ donation registration drive is scheduled for June 19 at the Weslaco location, and online registration is also available for those interested in becoming donors.
CommunityNew festival at Cameron County Amphitheater bringing Baby Bash, Fuel to South Padre Island
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — R&B artist Baby Bash and the rock band Fuel are among the notable artists coming to a new festival at the Cameron County Amphitheater on South Padre Island. The inaugural Seltzer Island festival is taking place on Saturday, June 20, from 4 p.m. to 11 p.m. and will feature live music,
CommunityMade in the 956: Rio Grande City musician earns spot at national music festival
Daniela Garcia, a musician from Rio Grande City and a music education major at the University of Texas at Austin, has been selected to perform at the prestigious Sarasota Music Festival in Florida. Out of over 400 applicants, she is one of only 42 students chosen to participate. Garcia, who plays the French horn, expressed her excitement about performing alongside professional musicians, including a former principal horn player from the Metropolitan Opera. As she approaches graduation, Garcia aims to pursue a career as a classical musician and hopes to inspire future French horn players. She takes pride in representing the Rio Grande Valley on a national stage.
CommunityEdinburg Named a ‘Top 100 Place to Retire in America’
Edinburg has been recognized as one of the 'Best 100 U.S. Cities for Retirees' by Investopedia, which assessed 500 cities based on affordability, healthcare, and quality of life. The city boasts a cost of living 21% below the national average and housing costs nearly 50% lower than the U.S. baseline. Texas's absence of a state income tax allows retirees to benefit from tax-free Social Security and pensions. Edinburg is also noted for its expanding healthcare facilities and a pleasant subtropical climate, making it an attractive destination for retirees seeking a vibrant cultural experience. Mayor Omar Ochoa emphasized the community's achievements in providing a high quality of life.
CommunityHe Loved to Fly: Widow of One of the B-52 Victims Speaks After the Tragedy
The wife of one of the eight people who died aboard a B-52 bomber that crashed on Monday at Edwards Air Force Base spoke for the first time about the tragedy that changed her family's life. According to family members, Jeromy Smith, an aerospace civil engineer, had been working at the military base in California for a decade. Lauren Smith spoke with Telemundo 52 while surrounded by family after learning of the accident. She said she initially found out through social media, where she recognized the massive plane her husband was on. Inconsolable and still in disbelief, Lauren recounted the impact of knowing that Jeromy was one of the eight crew members aboard the B-52 that crashed in the Mojave Desert. 'He loved what he did, he loved to fly, and he died doing what he loved most,' she expressed. Jeromy leaves behind two young children, one aged 2 and another just 4 months old. 'I am very sad that he won’t be able to see them grow; I hope he can be proud by raising them to be wonderful human beings like him,' Lauren said. Originally from Oregon, Jeromy had been serving as an aerospace civil engineer at Edwards Air Force Base for a decade. His wife recalled that on Monday morning, he said goodbye to her like any other day. 'He gave the baby his bottle when he woke up, kissed me, and said goodbye as usual, but this time he didn’t come back home,' Lauren said. Lauren recounted that Air Force officials arrived at their home on Monday afternoon to officially notify her of her husband's death. They also informed her that the investigation into the causes of the accident could take up to six months. However, Lauren stated that her husband had mentioned that the B-52 test had been postponed. She explained that the operation was scheduled for the previous week. 'They told him something was wrong and they had to fix it between Friday and Monday,' Lauren noted. After the accident, Lauren's sister started a fundraising campaign on social media to financially support the family, as Jeromy was the primary breadwinner. Lauren thanked the community for their expressions of solidarity. She explained that she works as a teacher and that her income is not enough to cover funeral expenses. Now, she said, her biggest concern is that her children will grow up without their father. 'To play with them, read to them, and give them a loving paternal hug,' she said. 'The accident turned our world upside down.' The couple had just celebrated their fourth wedding anniversary the previous week. Lauren urged the public to cherish every moment with their loved ones. She remembered her husband as a man passionate about his work and deeply committed to his country. Her husband, she asserted, loved the United States and considered it a hero.
CommunityHelp Shape the Future of Downtown McAllen, June 29th
Mayor Javier Villalobos, along with the McAllen City Commission and City Manager Isaac J. Tawil, invites the community to a Public Open House on June 29, 2026, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the McAllen Chamber of Commerce, 1200 Ash Ave W. This event aims to gather input on revitalization plans for Downtown McAllen, including new public spaces, family-friendly amenities, and improved accessibility. Attendees can engage with city leaders and planners, sharing ideas and feedback. Public participation is essential for guiding future planning and investment decisions. No RSVP is needed to attend.
CommunityMcAllen Citizens League Focuses on Growth and Civic Engagement Under New Leadership
The McAllen Citizens League, under new President Elva M. Cerda, is focusing on enhancing civic engagement and community awareness. Cerda, a long-time member, emphasizes the need to increase membership and meeting attendance. Key issues include poverty, healthcare access, and low voter turnout. The league plans to promote civic participation through educational programs and candidate forums, particularly targeting younger residents. With over 350 members, the organization aims to reconnect with past members and attract new ones. The league will continue its regular meetings and is preparing for its 75th anniversary in 2027, highlighting its commitment to community involvement.
CommunityFood Bank to Distribute Fresh Food in Elsa and Brownsville
The Food Bank of the Rio Grande Valley announced two mobile distributions of fresh fruits and vegetables scheduled for Wednesday, June 17. Deliveries will take place from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. One distribution will be held in Elsa at the city substation, while the second will occur in Brownsville at Precinct 2, represented by Joey López, located at 7092 Old Alice Rd. Both events will be open to residents from all cities in the Rio Grande Valley and will be served on a first-come, first-served basis while supplies last, according to the Food Bank. They also reminded families that they may only attend one mobile food distribution per week to ensure equitable access for all households in need of assistance.
CommunityDr. Joseph Ryan Discusses Career Journey, Library Service, and Community Engagement
Dr. Joseph Ryan, president of the McAllen Public Library Advisory Board, shared insights about his career and community involvement in a recent interview. A McAllen native and orthodontist, Ryan's love for libraries began in childhood, leading him to join the advisory board after encouragement from his mentor. He highlighted a recent children's event at the library that saw around 500 participants, with nearly 250 completing their projects. Ryan is optimistic about next year's event, aiming for increased participation, and announced that the children's artwork will be displayed in various city facilities.
CommunityWeslaco funeral home opens doors as temporary shelter for the public
Salinas Funeral Home in Weslaco has opened as a temporary shelter for those affected by the storm, accommodating up to 2,000 people. Funeral director Johnny Salinas emphasized the importance of giving back to the community that has supported them. The facility offers water and snacks, with staff available until 10 p.m. Monday, and will reopen at 7 a.m. Tuesday. Visitors can leave their cars overnight without fear of towing, but sleeping in vehicles is not permitted. The funeral home is equipped with backup generators to ensure power remains on during the shelter's operation.
CommunityMcAllen Public Library Honors Winners of First Art Pathways Contest
The McAllen Public Library recently celebrated the winners of its inaugural Art Pathways Contest, aimed at promoting reading and artistic expression among local youth. Participants were encouraged to read a library book and create a painting featuring their favorite scene along with Marty the Library Cat. A total of 500 art kits were distributed, leading to approximately 250 submissions across three age categories from various library branches. City officials praised the event for fostering community engagement and creativity. The winners were recognized at a ceremony, and the contest will now be held annually. Winning entries will be displayed at the libraries.
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