Good morning, McAllen.

A McAllen family of seven lost their new rental home on North 30th Street when a fire destroyed the property Thursday afternoon, causing about $12,000 in losses from new furniture and belongings; they are now staying at a hotel while investigators look into the cause.

Congressman Vicente Gonzalez is inviting high school students in Texas’ 34th District to submit original artwork for the 2026 Congressional Art Competition — the winning piece will be displayed in the U.S. Capitol for one year, and entries must arrive by April 10 at designated district offices.

On March 11, RioPlex held a deal structuring forum in Harlingen where local leaders discussed investment tools such as tax credits, property tax abatements, and TIRZ to spur growth.

Executive director Mario Reyna called the event a success that set the stage for projects like a hydrogen-powered refinery in Brownsville.

McAllen International Airport is set to launch daily non-stop flights to Monterrey on Friday, March 27.

Mexico-based carrier Aerus will operate the service, giving travelers a faster route for family visits and business travel.

South Texas College is offering new manufacturing and AI training courses to prepare Rio Grande Valley workers for 2,000 upcoming jobs at the Brownsville oil refinery.

The courses could help locals compete for higher wages and better opportunities.

A pedestrian underpass will be built under Ware Road between North Houston Avenue and Westside Park near the McAllen Nature Center.

The $3.5 million (federally funded) project will begin in August and finish by summer 2027 to improve pedestrian safety.

The Pharr International Bridge will receive $3.5 million in upgrades as part of the BOLT Project, with planning and pre-construction starting this year and construction set to begin next year to improve CBP and police operations and reduce wait times.

Protect Your Child from Cyberbullying

12 p.m. — McAllen Public Library — Free entry — Learn to safeguard your child against the dangers and signs of cyberbullying during this informative workshop.

Viva La Musica!

7:30-10:30 p.m. — McAllen Performing Arts Center — Ticket prices vary — Experience a fantastic performance by the McAllen Wind Ensemble at this classical music concert.

Pack 76 Donut Dash 5K

12:30-3 p.m. — 201 N 1st St, McAllen, TX — Registration fee required — Enjoy a tasty 5K race and 1-Mile Fun Run with a sweet twist featuring donuts along the route.