Long live ViVA: Pictured, from left to right, are: Dr. Roberto “Bobby” Ramirez and guest, Dr. Beverly Ashley-Fridie, Sofia Bravo, Harlingen’s Lonnie Davis (formally of San Benito) representing the Callandret Black History Museum in San Benito, and Sandra Tumberlinson of the San Benito Historical Society, and also representing the Callandret Black History Museum in San Benito and guest. (Courtesy photos/ViVA)
Special to the NEWS
MCALLEN, TX—Village in the Valley (ViVA) and Mount Olive Worship Center invite the community to an evening of music, inspiration, and unity at the 2025 Heritage Gospel Festival. This vibrant event is taking place on Saturday, Feb. 22, 2025, from 6-9 p.m. here at the Old Church Winery, 700 N. Main St.
According to organizers, celebrating the rich cultural tapestry of Black History Month, the festival features soul-stirring performances by the Sing Praise Collective and the powerful voices of the Kingdom Connection Church choir.
Attendees will experience the joy and unity of gospel music in the charming ambiance of the Old Church Winery. This event is an opportunity to connect with the community and reflect on the cultural contributions that shape and inspire the Valley, organizers say. This event is free and open to the public.
For inquiries or additional information, contact, (956) 287-0873 or email, rgvviva@gmail.com.
ViVa’s mission is elevating and uniting the Black community while connecting to other cultures in the Rio Grande Valley.
On Friday, Feb. 7, 2025, ViVA held a memorable First Friday mixer at The Vineyard Wine Co., celebrating Black History Month by honoring local trailblazers who have made significant contributions to the community. The event, sponsored by Soul Touch Wellness, brought together residents to reflect on Black history, culture, and achievements while fostering unity and appreciation.
The evening featured tributes to several distinguished individuals and families: The Webber Family: Represented by Sofia Bravo. The Jackson Family: Represented by Dr. Roberto “Bobby” Ramirez. The Stroub Family: Represented by Byron Stroub; the Callandret Black History Museum: Represented by Sandra Tumberlinson of San Benito and Lonnie Davis of Harlingen, and Dr. Beverly Ashley-Fridie of Edinburg.
These honorees were recognized for their contributions to preserving and promoting Black history and culture in the region.
Attendees enjoyed an evening of networking, community engagement, and reflection on the importance of Black history as an integral part of American history. The event also highlighted ViVA’s commitment to fostering inclusivity and cultural awareness. ViVA hosts networking events every first Friday of the month at The Vineyard Wine Co., through June 6.
For more information about Village in the Valley’s initiatives and upcoming events, visit villageinthevalley.org.
According to ViVA’s Vision Statement, ViVA is a beacon of unity with equal recognition and appreciation of the black community in the Rio Grande Valley.
The Community Closet, for example is open on the second Saturday of each month, by appointment, only to help those in need.
This three-year Strategic Plan (2021-2023) was developed by the ViVa Board of Directors, with valued participation from invited ViVa members, during three consecutive full-day Saturday work sessions.
The plan was informed by a comprehensive Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats (SWOT) analysis. The SWOT was conducted as virtual input from board members regarding known and perceived internal organizational considerations as well as external factors deemed important for multi-year planning purposes. The planning process was facilitated as in-kind support by Sabrina Walker Hernandez, ViVa Board Member, and President & CEO, Supporting World Hope.
Board Members and members who participated in the strategic planning process include: Mamie Anodjo, Board Member Dr. Theresa Gatling, PT DPT, Co-President, Alphonzo Gatling, Treasurer, McKenzie Bruner-Rodriguez, ViVa Member; Marsha Terry, Co-President; Dr. Onuwa Terry, PT DPT, Vice President; Matthew Pollock, Board Members; Imayo York, Board Member; Issac York, ViVa Member.
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