Community
Community news from McAllen and the Rio Grande Valley.
CommunityVillage in the Valley (ViVa) Names Dina Sabnani Director of Development & Community Engagement
Village in the Valley (ViVa) has appointed Dina Sabnani as its new Director of Development & Community Engagement. Founded in 2019, ViVa focuses on enhancing the Black community and fostering cultural connections in the Rio Grande Valley. Sabnani will work on building relationships with donors and partners, while also increasing the organization’s visibility and revenue. Known as The Joy Activator™, she emphasizes the importance of joy and connection in her work. ViVa's initiatives include scholarships, cultural celebrations, and community service programs. For more information, visit www.villageinthevalley.org.
CommunityAlamo Begins Transformation of 22-Acre Laguna Park Property
The City of Alamo is transforming a 22-acre former caliche pit into a stormwater detention facility and future recreational park. Located along N. 9th Place, the site has undergone significant cleanup, with over 250 trailer loads of debris removed. Mayor J.R. Garza emphasized that this project addresses flood mitigation and enhances community quality of life. The first phase focuses on site preparation, while future phases will develop recreational amenities. Although a specific opening date is not set, the city aims to create a clean public space with walking trails and open areas, balancing environmental considerations and budget constraints.
CommunityHidalgo County Proclaims September as National Alopecia Areata Awareness Month
EDINBURG, Texas – The Hidalgo County Commissioners Court officially proclaimed September 2026 as National Alopecia Areata Awareness Month, joining efforts to educate the community about this condition. Alopecia areata is an autoimmune disease that can cause varying degrees of hair loss and affect individuals of all ages. Through this proclamation, Hidalgo County aims to raise awareness about the condition, foster greater understanding for those living with it, and show support for affected individuals and families. The initiative also emphasizes the importance of continuing to promote medical and scientific research to develop better treatments and work towards a potential cure. County officials noted that education, awareness, and community support are essential for those facing alopecia areata. With this proclamation, Hidalgo County joins communities across the country that seek to raise visibility for this condition and those who live with it during September.
CommunityTony Forina Brings Energy and Wit to VAMOS 30th Anniversary Auction
Tony Forina brought his signature energy and humor to the live auction during the VAMOS 30th Anniversary celebration in McAllen, Texas. As the auctioneer, Forina engaged the audience while emphasizing the importance of supporting local students in the Rio Grande Valley. With over 30 years of experience in public-address announcing, he introduced the four auction spotters with a playful twist, highlighting their roles and backgrounds. His ability to connect with the crowd not only entertained but also reinforced the serious purpose of the event, which celebrated three decades of scholarships and mentorship opportunities.
CommunityTexas Food Banks Partner with TDA for Annual Hunger Action Month
In September, Texas observes Hunger Action Month, a campaign led by the Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA) and Feeding Texas to raise awareness about food insecurity. Currently, 19.4% of Texans, including nearly 2 million children, face hunger. TDA encourages residents to support local food banks through volunteering, donations, and advocacy. Programs like Texans Feeding Texans and Summer Meal Programs aim to provide nutritious food to those in need. Throughout the month, Texans are urged to wear orange, engage in conversations about food insecurity, and share resources online. For assistance, residents can visit SquareMeals.org/TXFoodBanks.
CommunityFour Community Leaders Step Up for VAMOS at 30th Anniversary Celebration
During the 30th anniversary celebration of VAMOS, four prominent community leaders from the Rio Grande Valley volunteered as auction spotters to support scholarships for local students. Julian Alvarez III, Richard 'Richie' Cantu, Jason Gonzalez, and Sergio Contreras contributed their time and expertise to enhance the fundraising efforts. Alvarez is the Executive VP at Lone Star National Bank and president of the La Joya ISD Board. Cantu, an attorney, serves as VAMOS Board President. Gonzalez is the General Manager of North Park Lexus, and Contreras is the CEO of Atlas, Hall & Rodriguez. Their involvement highlighted the importance of community support in educational opportunities.
CommunityVAMOS Celebrates 30 Years of Changing Lives Across the Rio Grande Valley
VAMOS, the Valley Alliance of Mentors for Opportunities and Scholarships, celebrated its 30th anniversary in McAllen, Texas, highlighting its impact on students in the Rio Grande Valley. Alumni shared personal stories of how scholarships and mentorship transformed their lives and careers. Key speakers included Elizabeth Diaz Gonzalez, a principal, and Dr. José Cruz, who credited VAMOS for guiding him from Edcouch-Elsa High School to Yale University. The event emphasized the importance of educational opportunities and community support, showcasing how VAMOS alumni are now educators, healthcare professionals, and leaders committed to giving back to their communities.
CommunityVAMOS Celebrates Its 30th Anniversary and More Than $27 Million in Scholarships
The Valley Alliance of Mentors for Opportunities and Scholarships (VAMOS) celebrated its 30th anniversary on August 22, 2026, at Bert Ogden Arena, honoring students, alumni, and community supporters. The organization has awarded over $27 million in scholarships to assist students in pursuing higher education, particularly those who are first-generation college attendees. Notable alumni shared their success stories, emphasizing how VAMOS helped them overcome challenges and support their families. The event highlighted the importance of continued investment in education, showcasing the transformative impact of scholarships and mentorship on individuals and their communities.
CommunityTelemundo Releases First Look at the Return of Sin Senos Sí Hay Paraíso, Premiering in November
Telemundo has launched the first exclusive preview of Sin Senos Sí Hay Paraíso, revealing the highly anticipated return of one of the network's most iconic franchises this November. This sneak peek takes viewers into the dangerous world of webcam modeling through Catalina Marín, who appears confident and empowered behind a screen until her reality takes an unexpected and terrifying turn. Continuing the legacy of the Sin Senos franchise, this new installment presents a story of revenge, survival, and empowerment, led by fan-favorite stars: Carmen Villalobos as Catalina Santana, Majida Issa as Yésica Beltrán 'La Diabla', Catherine Siachoque as Hilda Santana, and Gregorio Pernía as Aurelio 'Titi' Jaramillo. The cast also includes Fabián Ríos as Albeiro Marín, Carolina Gaitán as Catalina Marín, Elizabeth Gutiérrez as Diva Montero, and Arturo Barba as Israel Montero, along with Estefanía Gómez, Sergio Herrera, Isabela Amado, Juan Zuluaga, Osvaldo de León, Val Dorantes, María Laura Quintero, Giovanna Romo, Yankel Stevan, Liliana González, Izzi Rodríguez, Juana Arboleda, Nataly Cadavid, Camila Taborda, Pablo Astiazarán, Sandra Zellweger, Jerónimo Henao, and Adrián Makala, among others. Set in the perilous world of webcam modeling in Medellín, Sin Senos Sí Hay Paraíso follows Catalina Santana and Aurelio 'Titi' Jaramillo as they seek to rebuild their lives away from the shadows of their past. When Catalina is forced to return to a world she thought she had left behind, she teams up with the DEA to infiltrate a powerful criminal network that preys on vulnerable women seeking a better future. As Catalina gets closer to dismantling the organization and protecting her family, the return of La Diabla threatens to jeopardize everything she and Titi have fought to rebuild. Sin Senos Sí Hay Paraíso is an original series developed by TIS Studios and Telemundo Studios and produced by TIS Studios for Telemundo. The series will air on Telemundo in the United States. Fans can stay updated with the latest news and enjoy exclusive behind-the-scenes content by following @TelemundoSeries on various social platforms.
CommunityMenudo Celebrates 50 Years with a Tour Featuring Seven of Its Former Members
MIAMI – Seven former members of Menudo will reunite for a tour to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the legendary Puerto Rican group, kicking off in October in California and concluding in December in Puerto Rico. Their songs will be adapted to the adult voices of the former members, but they assure in an interview with EFE that they maintain the signature sound that characterized the group. Founded in 1977 by producer Edgardo Díaz, Menudo became one of the biggest phenomena in Latin American popular music, especially during the 1980s. Notable artists like Ricky Martin joined the group in 1984 along with Draco Rosa, although neither will participate in this tour. Ralphy Rodríguez, a member from 1986 to 1987, recalled that the band had 'a repertoire of hundreds of songs' between 1979 and 1991, leading to many meetings to first choose which songs to perform and then who would sing each one. According to Raymond Acevedo (1985-1988), the selection was based 'on feeling' and the era of each member in the group. Among the must-perform songs, Roy Rosselló (1983-1986) mentioned 'Súbete a mi moto,' sung by René Farrait (1979-1982), and added 'Claridad,' which he considers 'the classic' of the group. 'The songs are adapted to our tones now as men,' Acevedo explained. 'It sounds like Menudo because they are the same voices,' said the 54-year-old singer. 'Not all Menudo songs were very high melodies... we just lowered them a bit,' Rodríguez clarified. Meanwhile, Robert Avellanet (1988-1991) noted that the only member who sings in the same key as before is Sergio Blass (1986-1990), because 'his voice didn't change.' The group followed a model that required members in their early teens to leave when their voices changed.
CommunityMedal of Honor Monday: Marine Corps Brig. Gen. Robert Edward Galer
Brigadier General Robert Edward Galer, a Marine Corps fighter pilot, received the Medal of Honor in 1943 for his valor during World War II, specifically for his actions over Guadalcanal in 1942. Born on October 23, 1913, in Seattle, Galer excelled in sports and academics, earning a degree in industrial engineering from the University of Washington. He served over 20 years in the Marine Corps, including notable roles in the Pacific theater and later in various leadership positions. Galer retired in 1957 and passed away on June 27, 2005, leaving behind a legacy of bravery and service.
CommunityLocal influencer highlights haunted locations in the Rio Grande Valley
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — A local influencer is highlighting the Rio Grande Valley's most haunted locations and the history behind them. Karla Paola, also known as Karla's Paradise on TikTok and Karla's Haunted Files on Facebook and Instagram, began her paranormal content creation journey in October 2025. "I've always had a love for the paranormal,
CommunityGet Your Free Library Card This September
September is Library Card Sign-Up Month at the McAllen Public Library (MPL), where residents can obtain a free library card. This initiative encourages exploration of the library's extensive resources, including over 330,000 items such as eBooks, audiobooks, and educational tools. A special highlight this year is the debut of Marty the Library Cat, designed to engage young readers. Library Director Kate P. Horan emphasized that a library card opens doors to learning and creativity. Mayor Javier Villalobos and City Manager Isaac J. Tawil also noted the importance of libraries in fostering curiosity and confidence among children. For more information, visit mcallenlibrary.net or call 956-681-3000.
CommunityThe Countdown to Wild Christmas is On
The City of McAllen is gearing up for the Wild Christmas at the McAllen Holiday Parade, which is just 99 days away. This year's event will feature local organizations, with chair sales underway to help groups fundraise while enjoying the festivities. The search for the Wild Christmas Animal Grand Marshal has begun, with Roz the Bunny announced as the first winner of the Santa’s Good List giveaway. McDonald’s will also return with Ronald McDonald and friends for the 2026 parade. Volunteers are needed for various roles, and the parade is set for Saturday, December 5, promising a night of lights and holiday cheer.
CommunityKGBT 4.1 now CW4, CBS takes over 'Rio Grande Valley'
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — We’ve served the Rio Grande Valley for more than 70 years. Bringing you the news, weather, and sports you can trust. Stories and events from Valley communities that impact you. Beginning Tuesday, we’re now giving you more choices to entertain your family. The CW has a new home on KGBT 4.1.
CommunityCity of La Joya Mourns the Death of Former Fire Chief
The city of La Joya is mourning the loss of former Fire Chief Richard Flores, who passed away on August 28, 2026. Mayor Isidro Casanova, the City Council, and city staff expressed their condolences to Flores' family and loved ones. Flores dedicated much of his life to public service, serving as fire chief for 13 years and as a deputy constable for nine years. His impact extended beyond his official roles; he was also a husband, father, mentor, and a father figure to many children. The city emphasized his leadership and dedication will remain a significant part of La Joya's history.
CommunityIncredible: Family Reunites with Their Dog After 12 Years Missing
It's a story worthy of Hollywood for a woman from the suburbs of Evanston: she reunited with a dog that had been missing for an astonishing 12 years. Vanessa Antonino lost her beloved dog Flor 12 years ago in northern Chicago, but this week an incredible reunion took place thanks to a volunteer organization that solved a long-standing mystery. Antonino told NBC Chicago that on that fateful day 12 years ago, she went to work as usual, and when she returned, Flor was gone.
CommunityWomen of Distinction to Honor Latina Leadership. Sept. 4th in Austin
The Texas Association of Mexican American Chambers of Commerce (TAMACC) will honor 12 exceptional Latina leaders at the Women of Distinction Awards Luncheon on September 4, 2026, in Austin. This event aims to celebrate the achievements of these women, who are making significant contributions to Texas through leadership, innovation, and community service. Attendees will have the opportunity to network with influential figures from various sectors, including business and government. Notable honorees include Maria Tayde Montero from McAllen, who founded Montero Farms, and Angélica Robles Zúñiga from Mercedes, a successful entrepreneur. Tickets and sponsorships are available through TAMACC.
CommunityMovie Talk: Tony review plus 'El Jardin' filmmakers interview
Directed by Matt Johnson Staring Dominic Sessa, Antonio Banderas, Emilia Jones, Leo Woodall ★★★★☆ HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) - There is an incredible moment around the midway point of ‘Tony’ when the young future superstar chef Anthony Bourdain (Dominic Sessa) is about to shuck his first oyster. He wasn't paying attention when the older master chef was giving instructions,