Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 3rd of October.
Good morning, Edinburg.
🏘️ Community
The Edinburg Police Department and local clergy have launched the Faith — Blue blanket drive to collect new or handmade blankets for Rio Grande Valley residents in need ahead of winter.
Donations will be accepted at four local sites and a final drop-off event will be held on Saturday, Oct.11 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at First Baptist Church.
💼 Business
The Rio Grande Valley got its first IKEA store when a new furniture outlet opened on Wednesday at Pharr Town Center—located near the Cinemark Theater.
The store offers over 1,800 products for immediate take away and employs about 40 workers.
🎓 Education
Professor emeritus Gary Joe Mounce returned to teach politics at UTRGV and is using his new book—A Writing Fool - Tales From Mexico and the Rio Grande Valley—as required reading this term.
UTRGV students Marisol Ojeda and Brandon Valdez explained that the book’s mix of guest columns and new essays provides fresh insights on local issues.
Raise Your Hand Texas announced that McAllen native Clarissa Riojas is the new regional advocacy director for the Rio Grande Valley—she replaces Giovanni Escobedo, who has been promoted to senior regional advocacy director for Dallas.
Riojas, a former middle school teacher with a decade of experience, will work with community leaders, parents, and elected officials to support local public schools.
Marcos Silva became the new executive director of the STC Foundation and told the Guardian that he will work to secure scholarships + partnerships to help students attend college following STC’s groundbreaking event on Oct 2.
He said his role will build on his background in education and support students ahead of the foundation’s gala on Oct 16.
Senior Maddelynn Solano at Hidalgo Early College High School is named Student of the Week for her leadership on the Dazzlers drill team, top academic performance, and community service (she powerlifts, leads student council, and helps rescue stray dogs).
She plans to become a pediatric surgeon while honoring her late grandfather as her drive pushes her to excel.
🏛️ Government
Today, San Benito resident Sofia Mares Sepeda-Abrego shared that she struggles to pay for her 2 month old son's formula at $60 a can and fears a prolonged government shutdown could harm WIC services.
Texas Health and Human Services said applications and benefits will continue while nearly 76,000 people in Cameron and Hidalgo counties depend on the program — and the National WIC Association said funds are available for now.
TxDOT warned that fall’s shorter days have led to a rise in pedestrian fatalities in the Pharr District—2024 statistics noted crashes in Edinburg and other Valley cities that resulted in several deaths.
The agency’s initiative urges local drivers to yield and pedestrians to use crosswalks while the safety campaign runs on TV, radio, and billboards throughout October.
Texas Rep. Bobby Guerra said he will not seek reelection in November 2026 after 13 years serving District 41 including Edinburg.
He announced his decision Thursday morning and his retirement comes as candidates Sergio Sanchez and Eric Holguin enter the race—Guerra highlighted achievements such as funding UTRGV, raising teacher pay, and building the Tejano Monument.
The federal government has proposed to restart the DACA program—allowing people without legal status to apply for permits to live and work—though Texas residents will not get work permits under the plan.
Judge Hanen in Houston—handling the Texas lawsuit—will review proposals later in October as advocates encourage applicants to begin gathering the required documents.
🏥 Health
Dustin Sekula Memorial Library is hosting a three-week Healthy Aging Series on October 2—16 at 2 p.m. at 1906 S.
Closner Blvd.—the program will cover nutrition, fitness and social well-being with hands-on activities in partnership with Prairie View A&M University Extension’s Family and Community Health program.
🎉 Edinburg Events
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Prince Again Tribute
7-8:30 p.m. — The Citrus Live — Ticket prices vary — Celebrate the legendary music of Prince at this unforgettable tribute event.
Waffle Wednesday Networking Mixer
9 a.m. — The Citrus Live — No refunds — Enjoy breakfast while gaining insights from business speakers on relevant topics.
🏠 Edinburg Real Estate
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