AUSTIN – The Texas Center for the Book is continuing its the #TXBookChat series with a third lineup of virtual literary events for spring 2021. This online program from the Texas State Library and Archives Commission launched in 2020. The #TXBookChat series offers brief discussions and programs with authors, librarians, and literary professionals. These informal “coffee chats” last about 30 minutes and offer a quick look into different aspects of the state’s literary world. The #TXBookChat series seeks to bring together diverse voices and perspectives.
The Humane Society of Harlingen dog kennels are at capacity. HSH is asking the community to step up as adoptive and foster parents for canine friends.
For a limited time, all adoption fees for dogs over six months old are donation based, meaning the adopter can choose how much to leave as a donation. All adopted pets will go home up to date on vaccinations, dewormed, on preventatives for fleas/ticks/heartworms, microchipped and either already spayed/neutered, or with an appointment to spay/neuter at no cost to the adoptive family.
Puppies under six months old have a $100 adoption fee, except during Puppy Power Hour (3 p.m. to 4 p.m. every day) when their adoption fees become donation based as well. Anybody interested in adopting a dog should head to the shelter as soon as possible. All adoptions are done on a first come, first serve basis, curbside.
Fostering a pet is always free and HSH will provide foster parents with everything they will need to care for the pet, including food, toys, and other care items. Foster families can customize the length of foster to meet their availability, with foster periods lasting a few hours to a few months.
To see an updated list of available dogs, visit hshtx.org/dogs. This list is updated live with all the animals in our care. Clicking on photos of the pet will take the viewer to a pet profile, which contains more photos and information about the pets age, breed, sex, size/weight, and a short bio. For more information, contact the Humane Society of Harlingen at (956) 425-7297 or by email at info@hshtx.org.
While the International Museum of Art & Science (IMAS) art galleries continue to exhibit exquisite collections and artwork and remain open for a comfortable socially-distanced experience, the museum has also further enhanced its online programming. The museum invites the community to access a variety of virtual exhibits and educational resources on its website, and to participate in hands-on programs at home. From adult art workshops to afterschool programs, the IMAS offers safe ways to engage with art, science, and culture. Many of these programs are accessible for no cost to the public while some are paid workshops and discounted for IMAS members.
Sixteen years, and still going strong, the Rio Grande Valley Coastal Expo comes to you once again, this time virtually. Texas Parks and Wildlife, the City of Edinburg and the Edinburg Scenic Wetlands and World Birding Center invites elementary students, parents, and educators to participate in this one-of-a-kind event.
On February 15th -19th, 2021, experience Coastal Ecology, South Texas Wildlife and Outdoor Adventure in a brand-new format. Explore the wonders of our natural world. See wild animals up close. Virtually experience fishing, rock climbing, kayaking and other adventure sports firsthand. Learn about the amazing places and adventures available across the Rio Grande Valley.
This year’s event will feature a mix of downloadable activities, live virtual events, interactive game shows, and a range of engaging pre-recorded videos that can be incorporated into classroom curricula.
The City of Pharr has seen a lot of growth and revitalization in recent years. As seen in other downtown areas I have been in this season, Pharr’s downtown is welcoming and features its history. Its historic buildings add to the character while newer buildings are revitalizing the area and making room for more commerce and entertainment. If you travel the Valley along Business 83, you will likely see the epicenter of each of the Valley’s cities.
If you drive around the City of Mission you might notice something a little special. Every once in a while, you might just see a beautiful butterfly sculpture. Being home to the National Butterfly Center, it just seemed fitting for there to be butterflies of giant size around town to celebrate. These butterflies represent some of the 200 or more species that can be found in the area.
While McAllen has seen a growth in business in the last 20 years, it has also seen a growth in what it offers for outdoor activities.
The entire Rio Grande Valley is a huge birding hub. McAllen has not been left out in the birding area. McAllen features one of the World Birding Center’s at its historic Quinta Mazatlán.