Good morning, Edinburg.

Foster Angels of South Texas launched its annual campaign — Focus on a Foster Teen — to help 52 foster teens in the Valley receive holiday gifts; the group needs donations or teen sponsorships by Dec 4 so they can wrap and deliver the gifts by Dec 10.

Anna Heart, 19, from San Juan was chosen as a face for Torrid after winning the casting call in August—she said the opportunity helped her regain confidence.

She will represent the brand in upcoming campaigns throughout the Rio Grande Valley.

Jorge A. Torres, CEO of Interlink Trade Services, said at a quarterly meeting that McAllen is not marketing its foreign trade zone well and that better promotion could attract more manufacturing—he pointed to re-shoring trends and tariff challenges.

Elizabeth Suarez of McAllen Economic Development Corporation said she is already working with FTZ officials to boost regional trade opportunities.

Texas Southmost College’s Agriculture and Agribusiness programs blend classroom lessons with hands-on work in the community garden to build technical and leadership skills for careers in animal science, horticulture, agronomy, and agricultural economics—students can transfer to Texas A&M universities through 2+2 partnerships. The programs help prepare graduates for roles that support the Rio Grande Valley’s vital food systems and economic growth.

McAllen Holiday Parade

6:00 – 7:30 PM — McAllen Veterans Memorial Stadium — Free entry — Celebrate the festive season with a spectacular parade expected to draw a crowd of 260,000 attendees.

A Grinchmas 5K

7:30 AM – 1:30 PM — Edinburg Municipal Park — Entry fee applies — Participate in a festive 5K run supporting local pregnancy resource centers.