Good morning, McAllen.

Today at 2:00 p.m., South Texas College will host the Future of Automation forum in the Student Union Building — panelists including STC's Dr. Jesús Campos will explain how generative AI may change work tasks.

Guardian editor Steve Taylor will moderate the discussion as the forum builds on last week's event in Brownsville.

Jesse Leatherwood was sentenced to 35 years in prison by a Cameron County jury on Monday after being found guilty of intoxication manslaughter in the September 2024 crash that killed Deputy Constable Ruben Garcia in Brownsville—Leatherwood apologized to Garcia’s family during his sentencing.

Jesse Edward Leatherwood, a 47-year-old McAllen resident, faces sentencing for intoxication manslaughter after crashing into a deputy constable's parked vehicle near Marine Way Road on Sept.

30 in Brownsville—killing Deputy Constable Ruben Garcia while his legal team recently objected to a penalty enhancement jury instruction as the state filed its response on Monday.

Pope Francis died early Monday morning just after Easter Sunday after a long fight with double pneumonia — the Vatican announced his death, and local church leaders prayed for his eternal rest.

Millions of Texans and churchgoers in the Rio Grande Valley mourned Pope Francis, who died Monday at age 88 after suffering a stroke and heart failure.

Local worshippers recalled him as a leader who cared for the poor and marginalized — his open heart left a lasting impact — and his teachings will live on.

Monday's rainfall caused power outages in the Valley with two outages reported by AEP and 58 by Magic Valley Electric in Cameron County—fewer than five outages were reported by AEP in Hidalgo County.

Officials said the numbers may change as repair efforts continue.

Maria Elena Giner, IBWC Commissioner, resigned Monday evening after a four-year tenure marked by improvements in water deliveries along the Rio Grande—Chad McIntosh has since been named as her successor.

UTRGV medical student Hector Trejo is studying diabetes in underserved communities in the Valley—he says many people may feel fine but have hidden symptoms.

He spent two years working with dieticians, exercise science, and behavioral health students and will complete his residency at DHR Health next month to help expand free and low-cost public health services.

Administrative Professionals’ Day Luncheon

11 AM – 1 PM — McAllen Convention Center — Registration required — Celebrate the vital role of administrative professionals in the workplace.

South Texas Comic Con

11 a.m. – 7 p.m. — McAllen Convention Center — Ticket prices vary — Celebrate 10 years of pop culture with celebrity guests, panels, gaming, and a Cosplay contest.

Noodle Run 5K & 1/2 Mile Fun Run

6:00-8:30 p.m. — Firemen's Park — Registration required — Family-friendly event bringing the community together for an evening run.

South Texas Comic Con

9:00 – 10:30 AM — McAllen Performing Arts Center — Ticket prices vary — Experience the vibrant world of comics at South Texas Comic Con.

Watermelon Festival & BBQ Cook Off

2-11 p.m. — Alamo Sports Complex — Free entry — Celebrate summer with watermelon-themed activities and BBQ competitions.

Deborah Case Dance Academy Performance

10:00-11:30 a.m. — McAllen Performing Arts Center — Ticket prices vary — Experience a captivating dance showcase by the Deborah Case Dance Academy.