Community
Community news from McAllen and the Rio Grande Valley.
CommunityTexas Gulf Coast Red Cross South Texas Chapter Open House, May 26th
The South Texas Chapter of the Gulf Coast Red Cross is hosting an open house on May 26, 2026, at their Harlingen office. This event aims to connect current and potential volunteers, staff, and community supporters. Attendees will have the chance to meet fellow volunteers, learn about key programs and services in the area, and discover new ways to get involved. The chapter invites anyone interested in volunteering or partnering to attend this informative gathering. The open house will run from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at 6914 West Expressway 89, Harlingen, TX.
CommunityNicki Minaj visits Rio Grande Valley for Starship launch
STARBASE, Texas (ValleyCentral) — Nicki Minaj, widely recognized as one of the most influential female rap artists of all time, made a surprise appearance at Starbase on Thursday in anticipation of the test flight of Starship. Minaj appeared in a launch livestream with two SpaceX employees shortly before Starship was set to launch from Cameron County.
CommunityMcAllen to Host Memorial Day Ceremony, May 25
McAllen will hold a Memorial Day ceremony on May 25, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. to honor the sacrifices of U.S. Armed Forces members. The event will feature Mayor Javier Villalobos, the McAllen City Commission, and various local organizations, including the Fire and Police Departments. A flag-raising ceremony will involve Desiree and Raquel Tellez along with 8th graders from Sharyland North Junior High. Speakers include Commissioner Victor “Seby” Haddad and members of the Veterans War Memorial Committee. Community members are encouraged to attend and pay tribute to those who lost their lives in service to the nation.
CommunityFollowing push by activists, Harlingen to study impacts of potential data centers on community
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — Over the past few months, Isaac Amani Newman, has become a familiar face at Harlingen's City Commission meetings, pushing for action on data centers. Newman, the co-founder of For The People Alliance, is hoping to see the city eventually pass an ordinance banning data centers. "The first step, we need the
CommunityMultipurpose Pavilion Opens with Dallas Stars Partnership
The City of McAllen celebrated the opening of the new Multipurpose Pavilion with a community event that included a partnership announcement with the Dallas Stars Hockey Club. This collaboration aims to introduce hockey programs and sports development opportunities in the Rio Grande Valley, encouraging local youth and families to engage in sports. The pavilion will serve as a versatile venue for various activities, including fitness classes and community events, promoting healthy lifestyles and family connections. City Manager Ike Tawil emphasized the pavilion's role in enhancing quality of life, while Dallas Stars representatives expressed excitement about fostering a love for hockey in the region.
Community4Ever Family-Adian
HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — Every week, CBS4 works to find a forever home for a Rio Grande Valley foster child as part of our “4Ever Family” partnership with the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services. Meet Adian, a 14-year-old boy full of energy and joy. He enjoys watching TV and loves animal-themed movies and
CommunityBreaking the Internet: AI-Created Song About Puerto Rico Goes Viral and Captivates Celebrities
Puerto Rico has become a trending topic on social media thanks to a song created with artificial intelligence (AI) that has gained popularity on TikTok and Instagram. The song, titled 'The Puerto Rico Song,' was released by content creator Bill Stiteler, known on social media as Saxboybilly18. At the time of this publication, the video has surpassed 3.5 million views and features the comedian exploring various locations in San Juan while a catchy pop song inspired by his experiences on the Island plays. The scenes include rides on the Tren Urbano, lunches featuring mofongo with Malta, references to other places like the municipality of Caguas, and everyday situations that many Puerto Ricans quickly identified, such as the applause upon landing on the plane. The video has prompted several celebrities and public figures to join the trend by sharing videos using the song, including singer Charlie Puth, actress Sarah Hyland, country music artist Luke Combs, Jennifer Love Hewitt, and the group O-Town. Journalist David Begnaud and the baseball team The Party Animals from the Banana Ball Championship League also participated. The rise of the song has also elicited a response from Discover Puerto Rico, the agency responsible for promoting the Island as a tourist destination, which posted content explaining some of the cultural references mentioned in the song.
Community'We’ll be here tomorrow': Starship fans undeterred after launch scrub
SOUTH PADRE ISLAND, Texas (ValleyCentral) — After several launch window delays, SpaceX ultimately decided not to move forward with the 12th test launch of Starship Thursday evening leaving thousands gathered across the Rio Grande Valley disappointed — but still hopeful for the next launch. Shortly after the launch was scrubbed, SpaceX announced it is preparing
CommunityTruly grateful: Rio Grande Valley community rallies to give foster teen her quinceañera
A foster teen in the Rio Grande Valley, referred to as Samantha, is set to have her dream quinceañera thanks to the Sunny Glen Children's Home and local community support. This will be the third quinceañera organized by the home for a foster youth, following a similar celebration for Samantha's sister. Fund Development Director Joseph Albury emphasized the community's commitment to honoring Samantha, who lacks family support. Within a day of announcing the event, the community contributed resources like venue, makeup, and photography. The quinceañera is scheduled for next month, and Samantha is excited to celebrate with her loved ones.
CommunityWATCH: Echoes from Brownsville: The Rubio Murders
Channel 5 News revisits the tragic 2003 murders of three Brownsville children—Julissa, John, and Mary Jane—committed by their parents, John Allen Rubio and Angela Camacho. Officers who responded to the scene on March 11, 2003, recount the horrific discovery of the children. In an exclusive interview, Rubio, currently on death row, speaks with reporter Stefany Rosales about his actions and his assertion that the children were possessed. While the prosecution argues the murders were premeditated, the defense highlights Rubio's mental health as his execution date in November 2026 approaches. The documentary is available on their website and YouTube channel.
CommunityCity of McAllen and Dallas Stars unveil new multi-purpose pavilion
MCALLEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — McAllen city leaders and the Dallas Stars Hockey Club celebrated the official opening of a new multi-purpose pavilion on Thursday. The new pavilion also marks the beginning of the city's partnership with the Dallas Stars. According to the city of McAllen, the pavilion and new partnership will introduce future hockey programming
Community250th Anniversary Logo for Free Public Use
In anticipation of the United States' 250th anniversary in 2026, Texas Border Business and Mega Doctor News have released a commemorative logo for free public use. This logo, designed for businesses, schools, nonprofits, and civic organizations, features a bold '250' in red, white, and blue, along with iconic American symbols like the bald eagle and the Statue of Liberty. It includes the message 'Celebrating 250 Years of American History' and encourages local participation in anniversary events across the Rio Grande Valley. The logo can be downloaded at no cost to promote community engagement leading up to this historic milestone.
CommunityTPWD Urges Boaters to “Clean, Drain, and Dry” to Prevent Spread of Invasive Species
As summer boating season begins with Memorial Day weekend, the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) is urging boaters to practice 'clean, drain, and dry' to prevent the spread of invasive species. This includes draining water from boats and equipment and removing invasive plants before leaving lakes. Major threats like giant salvinia and zebra mussels are spreading in Texas waters, causing significant ecological and infrastructure damage. TPWD emphasizes that these practices are not only recommended but legally required. For assistance with potentially infested boats, TPWD advises contacting (512) 389-4848.
CommunityCity of Pharr’s Memorial Day Ceremony, May 22nd
The City of Pharr will hold its annual Memorial Day Ceremony on Friday, May 22, 2026, at 9:00 a.m. at Memorial Park, located at 501 W. Egly Ave. This event honors the brave individuals who sacrificed their lives for the nation. The ceremony will feature a performance by the Lyndon B. Johnson Middle School Choir, which will lead the Pledge of Allegiance and the National Anthem. Local officials will also give special remarks. This year, the city will honor Lance Corporal Julio Cisneros Alvarez for his dedication and service. The event is free and open to the public.
CommunityChannel 5 News original documentary Echoes from Brownsville: The Rubio Murder premieres May 21
Channel 5 News is set to premiere a documentary titled 'Echoes from Brownsville: The Rubio Murders' on May 21 at 10:30 p.m. This film revisits the tragic 2003 case involving the murders of three children—Julissa, John, and Mary Jane—by their parents, John Allen Rubio and Angela Camacho. While Camacho is serving a life sentence, Rubio was sentenced to death. The prosecution argues the murders were premeditated, but the defense is contesting his execution scheduled for November 2026, citing concerns about his mental health. The documentary includes Rubio's first on-camera interview and explores the ongoing impact of the case on the community.
CommunityEchoes from Brownsville-The Rio Grande Valley News Channel
The Rio Grande Valley News Channel has been actively reporting on various events in Brownsville over the past week. Key highlights include updates on local community initiatives and public meetings. The channel has also featured discussions on economic development and public safety concerns affecting residents. Viewers can access a video archive showcasing these stories and more, providing a comprehensive look at the issues that matter to the Brownsville community. The news coverage aims to keep residents informed and engaged with local affairs.
Community6th Annual Juneteenth Perfecting Unity Celebration set for next month
The Village in the Valley and Edinburg Cultural Arts are hosting the 6th Annual Juneteenth 'Perfecting Unity' Celebration on Saturday, June 13, at the Edinburg Arts, Culture, and Events (ACE) Center. This event aims to honor freedom, heritage, and community togetherness, marking the official start of Juneteenth. According to the VIVA website, the celebration focuses on uplifting culture, creativity, and collective progress. Community members are encouraged to attend and can find more details and RSVP information online.
Community'We don’t have a safe road': San Benito residents push for change
SAN BENITO, Texas (ValleyCentral) — Residents in San Benito are speaking out about flooding, deteriorating roads, and a lack of basic services as city leaders begin planning how federal funding could be spent over the next five years. A large crowd gathered at the San Benito Cultural Center for the first of several community meetings
CommunityHonoring Edinburg’s 90 Fallen Heroes, May 22nd
The City of Edinburg will hold a solemn ceremony on May 22, 2026, at 10:00 AM to honor 90 fallen heroes who sacrificed their lives for the nation. The event will take place at the Edinburg Municipal Auditorium, located at 200 N. 7th Ave. The ceremony serves as a reminder of the cost of freedom and aims to honor the courage of Edinburg’s heroes. Gold Star Families are especially invited to attend, and attendees are encouraged to arrive early, as doors will open at 9:30 AM. General parking will be available nearby, and the event is supported by HEB Operation Appreciation.