Community
Community news from McAllen and the Rio Grande Valley.
CommunityCelebrating 19 Years of Impact from One Iconic Desk
Carolina Rodriguez, an Administrative Assistant at South Texas College’s Mid-Valley Campus, has been a vital presence for nearly 19 years. Joining STC in 2007, she has transformed her role into one of support and connection for students and staff alike. Rodriguez earned her Bachelor of Science in Education while working, showcasing the opportunities the college provides. Her family has also benefited, with her children taking dual credit courses. Known as the heart of the campus, she fosters a welcoming environment and emphasizes the importance of community. Her impact is felt deeply, making her an invaluable asset to STC.
CommunityMexican Pop Royalty Yuridia Is Coming to Bert Ogden Arena March 19th!
Yuridia, the acclaimed queen of Mexican regional music, is set to perform at Bert Ogden Arena in Edinburg, TX, on March 19, 2027, as part of her Las Cartas Sobre La Mesa Tour 2027. This tour will feature 18 cities across the U.S., kicking off in Seattle on February 4, 2027. Yuridia recently made headlines by selling out two consecutive nights at Mexico City’s Estadio GNP Seguros. Fans can expect to hear her latest single, 'Que Se Vaya,' along with beloved hits. Presale tickets will be available starting September 8, with general sales beginning September 11.
CommunityJ&S Construction Management Launches “Staycation Giveaway” to Celebrate Netflix Premiere of “Say a Little Prayer”
J&S Construction Management has launched a 'Staycation Giveaway' to celebrate the Netflix premiere of 'Say a Little Prayer,' featuring local artists from the Rio Grande Valley. Three winners will receive a $650 staycation package, including a two-night hotel stay in McAllen, snacks for a movie night, and gifts from local businesses. Flower Guerrero, the marketing director, emphasized the film's local connections and the importance of community support. The giveaway coincides with the South Texas International Film Festival, where Edward James Olmos will be a special guest. Entries open on September 8, 2026, with the winner announced on September 11.
CommunityWe Take Over Texas! Telemundo to Broadcast Live from the Lone Star State
Telemundo is going big in Texas. This Thursday, September 10, and Friday, September 11, Hoy Día (8am/7c), En Casa con Telemundo (1pm/12c), La Mesa Caliente (3pm/2c), and Al Rojo Vivo (4pm/3c) will leave their studios at Telemundo Center in Miami to broadcast live from Fort Worth Stockyards in the Dallas/Fort Worth area, bringing audiences two days of special programming filled with the energy, culture, and flavor of the Lone Star State. From morning to afternoon, each program will add its unique touch to this grand celebration. Hoy Día will kick off the mornings with Penélope Menchaca, Carlos Calderón, and Chikybombom, while Pancho Uresti will join from Houston; En Casa con Telemundo will bring all its energy and fun to the audience with Carlos Adyan, Aleyda Ortíz, and Chikybombom; La Mesa Caliente will tackle the conversations and topics everyone is talking about with Verónica Bastos, Andrea Meza, Karla Monroig, and Ana Patricia; and Jessica Carrillo and Lourdes Stephen from Al Rojo Vivo will close the day with the news and stories that define current events. During these two days of special broadcasts, Telemundo programs will feature special guests, music, and entertainment, including Texas Latin stars like Lorenzo Méndez, Cristina Eustace, and Grupo Duelo, along with the unforgettable Kelvin Rentería from La Casa de los Famosos and Exatlón Estados Unidos. There will also be live segments from other parts of Texas, with local station personalities joining from San Antonio and McAllen to turn daytime programming into a true Texas celebration.
CommunityTelemundo Begins Production on New Series 'Emergencias. Unidad de Vida'
Telemundo has begun production on its new original series, "Emergencias. Unidad de Vida," currently being filmed at Telemundo Studios in Miami, Florida. The medical drama features a talented cast led by Ana Brenda Contreras and Erick Elías, alongside Geraldine Bazán, Rodolfo Salas, and others. The storyline revolves around Gabriela Serrano, a determined medical resident returning to Florida to confront her troubled past while navigating a hospital in crisis. The series promises intense drama, unexpected twists, and ethical dilemmas, reflecting the experiences of the Hispanic community in the U.S. Fans can follow the production on social media for exclusive content.
CommunityTexas Border Business Presents the Enduring Spirit of September 11
Texas Border Business is launching a five-day series titled The Enduring Spirit of September 11, starting September 7, to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the 2001 terrorist attacks. Each day until September 11, a new article will explore themes of remembrance, courage, service, and the sacrifices made by families affected by the tragedy. The series aims to highlight the personal stories and lessons learned over the years, rather than just recounting the events of that day. Readers are encouraged to visit www.TexasBorderBusiness.com daily to engage with these meaningful narratives.
Incredible but True: Isisí, the Name of a Baby Registered in Mexico
In Matamoros, Tamaulipas, a couple has registered their baby girl with the unique name Isisí, inspired by the phrase "¿Y si sí?" from the recent World Cup. The local Civil Registry confirmed that the name was officially recorded, with officials noting its originality. Omar Masso Quintana, head of the Civil Registry, stated that naming practices in Mexico allow parents significant freedom, although names deemed inappropriate can be recommended for change. The registration took place during an administrative corrections event at the Mundo Nuevo Convention Center, although the identities of the parents and baby remain private.
Brownsville Southmost Trail expansion aims to link schools, parks
Construction is set to begin on a new section of the Brownsville Southmost Trail, aimed at improving access for residents to schools, parks, and the library. This expansion includes Phase 3, which will feature a loop around the Southmost Public Library and enhancements to Morningside Park. Future plans for Phase 4 will focus on sidewalks connecting La Posada Park to two schools along Southmost Boulevard. The ultimate goal is to link the southern part of Brownsville to the historic Battlefield Trail, enhancing connectivity in one of the region's most densely populated areas, according to Senior Bicycle and Pedestrian Planner Eva Garcia.
Rio Hondo residents push for more transparency on outer parkway plans
Residents of Rio Hondo are expressing concerns over a proposed $350 million highway project that would connect I-69E north of Harlingen to the east. With four potential routes under consideration, property owners are seeking clarity on how the project may impact their land. AJ Mata, a local resident, attended a recent public meeting but felt the format limited open discussion. The Cameron County Regional Mobility Authority (CCRMA) stated that the meeting aimed to address specific property concerns but acknowledged the need for more public Q&A opportunities. The project could affect 115 to 129 properties, with up to 11 homes possibly displaced. Public feedback is welcome until September 14.
CommunityEdinburg’s New Arts District Gains Official State Status
The Texas Commission on the Arts has officially designated Edinburg as a new Arts District, joining Brownsville, Galveston, and Lufkin. This recognition increases Texas's cultural districts to 61, promoting tourism and economic development through local arts. The Edinburg Arts, Culture & Event Center serves as the district's hub, hosting various community events and performances. The designation allows local arts organizations to apply for state grants, enhancing support for artists and programs. An official celebration is planned for October 2026, where the Texas Commission will present the formal proclamation, highlighting Edinburg's creativity and cultural heritage.
CommunityFormer Wrestler Steps Into the STC Kitchen
Nicholas Sachs, a 37-year-old resident of Weslaco and father of three, is pursuing a Commercial Baking Certificate at South Texas College (STC) after a decade in professional wrestling. Originally from Lake Charles, Louisiana, Sachs has always had a passion for cooking, influenced by his Cajun and Italian heritage. He aims to further his education with an Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts. As he transitions from wrestling, where he learned the importance of dedication, he plans to open a Cajun restaurant and a training gym, merging his culinary dreams with his wrestling background.
CommunityRegister Free for the First-Ever Pharr Gateway Forum, Oct. 7th
The City of Pharr will host the inaugural Gateway Forum on October 7, 2026, from 9 AM to 2 PM at the Pharr Development & Research Center, located at 850 W. Dicker Rd. Registration is free and open to business leaders and community stakeholders interested in international trade and economic development. The event will feature panel discussions and a keynote address by Duncan Wood, focusing on cross-border commerce. Additionally, registered attendees can enjoy trolley tours of the industrial park and a Networking Mixer in the evening. For more details, visit PharrGateway.com or contact Yuri Gonzalez at (956) 310-2139.
CommunityForever Family: Sylvia
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — Every week, CBS Rio Grande Valley works to find a forever home for a Rio Grande Valley foster child as part of our Forever Family partnership with the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services. Meet Sylvia, a 16-year-old girl who is ready to be matched with her forever family. Sylvia
CommunityMcAllen Gears Up for Fiesta de Palmas October 16–18
Fiesta de Palmas returns to the McAllen Convention Center from October 16 to 18, 2026, inviting locals and visitors to enjoy three days filled with food, music, and cultural activities. The event will feature an expanded carnival with over 30 rides, live music, and interactive attractions. Notable highlights include the Beer Around the World event on October 17, benefiting Hope Family Health Center. Admission is free on October 16, with a $10 fee after 4 p.m. on the following days. The festival promises diverse entertainment, including a mariachi competition, costume contest, and artisan market.
CommunityJuego de Villanos, Telemundo's New Reality Show Premiering in October
Telemundo is set to launch 'Juego de Villanos,' its first adaptation of the international hit 'House of Villains,' featuring 18 controversial personalities competing in a series of strategic challenges. Contestants will face eliminations while vying for the title of 'Supreme Villain' and a cash prize of $200,000. Javier Pons, Chief Content Officer at Telemundo, emphasized the show's innovative approach to reality television. The series will air Monday through Friday and Sundays, with streaming available on Peacock the following day. The program will also be broadcast across Latin America via Telemundo Internacional and is eligible for a tax incentive in Colombia.
Rio Grande City using traps, tracking software to tackle stray dog concerns
Neighbors mourn San Juan man who drowned in canal
Free legal workshop for families of children with disabilities set for Saturday in Brownsville
CommunityHidalgo County Clerk's Office processing marriage licenses in Edinburg
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — The Hidalgo County Clerk's Office is processing marriage licenses at its Edinburg office as the courthouse remains closed to the public, according to a news release. Marriage license services will be available from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday at 317 N. Closner Blvd. Services will also be available on Thursday and
