Good morning, Brownsville.

Rio Grande Valley-based organizations SHE IS and SHE IS YOU empower women in construction and real estate and hosted a panel discussion with local leaders at the Cambria Hotel in McAllen on Oct.

28 — the groups received a Rising Star A/E/C Firm of the Year award and offer mentoring, scholarships, and networking to help women succeed in traditionally male-dominated fields.

The PossAble Dream Adult High School in Brownsville helps adults aged 18 to 50 earn a high school diploma and career certification—Superintendent Darcia Cuellar said the school received over one thousand pre-registrations statewide while the Brownsville campus works to raise local enrollment.

Brownsville ISD Superintendent Jesus Chavez said he was disappointed when voters rejected two bond proposals—one for $385 million in campus improvements and one for a new performing arts center; he said the district will work to fund needed upgrades like window repairs and air conditioning improvements.

The North American Development Bank announced it will allocate $100 million from its Water Resiliency Fund for water conservation projects in the Rio Grande Valley + offer an additional $300 million in low-interest loans while accepting proposals until Jan 8, 2026.

Millions of Texas SNAP recipients are still waiting for their November benefits because the USDA said it will pay only half of the usual amount after the federal shutdown.

Two federal judges ordered funding last Friday—Texans may see their benefits in a few days.

City officials updated the commission on the Brownsville Downtown Renaissance Master Plan with feedback from nearly 900 survey responses and events such as First Friday and the Brownsville Farmers’ Market.

The meeting focused on issues like traffic, parking, and public amenities — additional stakeholder meetings will be scheduled as the plan develops toward spring.

Residents along Alton Gloor Boulevard are concerned after TxDOT recorded over 120 crashes since January, with local Maria Martinez—who witnessed three crashes, including a truck hitting a wall near her home—saying she contacted Mayor John Cowen, who is working with TxDOT to review the roadway for safety improvements in the coming months.

South Padre Island Half Marathon

Half Marathon, 5K — Nov 8th — Isla Blanca Park — Registration fees apply — Participate in an exciting run on the beach and enjoy the beautiful coastal views.

Taylor Swift Candlemusic Concert

6:30-7:30 p.m. — Brownsville Events Center — $45-$65 — Experience a magical evening of Taylor Swift's hits performed by a string quartet in a candlelit setting.

Candlelight Concert: Vivaldi’s Four Seasons & More

6:30 p.m. — Historic Alonso Building — Ticket required — Experience the enchanting music of Vivaldi under candlelight in a stunning historical venue.

41st Annual Turkey Trot Fundraiser

7:30-11:00 a.m. — Heart Institute of Brownsville — Registration fees contribute to STEM scholarships — Enjoy a healthy morning run while supporting local students in science and technology.