Good morning, Laredo.

The first-ever Laredo Coffee Fest will be held Saturday, October 25 at The Outlet Shoppes at Laredo from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.—this free event grows from the success of the Laredo Coffee Tour's third anniversary and will bring families together for a day of specialty roasters, treats and live entertainment.

The LEDC announced winners of its Economic Development Industry Awards to be given at the Boots ’n Bling Gala on Friday, Oct.

17 from 7 — 12 midnight at The Barn/Los Patios Event Center. Former Chancellor John Sharp, TAMIU represented by Dr. Christopher Maynard, Flint Development and the B.P. Newman and De Anda families will be honored for their roles in boosting Laredo’s growth.

United ISD will hold a special meeting this Friday to discuss the future of Cherish Center and other special education programs for students aged 18 to 21—parents worry about potential service cuts even as board president Javier Montemayor assures that key services will continue.

United ISD began a student-led anti-bullying program this month at its middle and high schools, giving each school $2,000 to start UGLI clubs that help students support one another.

The clubs, formed in partnership with the UGLI Foundation from Austin, will plan meetings and strategies + work to reduce bullying.

Officials announced a binational partnership is using technology to help keep trash out of the Rio Grande—teams from the US and Mexico will install sensors along the river.

The project aims to improve water quality and protect wildlife from pollution.

Laredo 911 operators warned residents against using the 911 line for non-emergency calls—stressing that proper use of the service helps ensure a quick response in true emergencies.

Webb County officials discussed the screwworm parasite during a meeting on October 15—reviewing current findings and control plans—while they prepare measures to protect local livestock and crops.

This Saturday, October 18 marks the 10th anniversary of the Walk to End Alzheimer’s— a community event at TAMIU in Laredo that will raise awareness and hope for those affected by the disease.

Check-in will begin at 8 a.m., with a ceremony at 9 a.m. and the walk starting at 9:30 a.m.

Esther Gonzalez, a cancer survivor and ambassador for an American Cancer Association fundraising campaign, is receiving support from retired Customs and Border Protection agents as she shares her message of hope.

Diagnosed in 2021 and now in remission, she urges those fighting cancer to rely on community support—she believes that facing cancer can help make people stronger.

LAPS introduced Zuki, a deaf 1-year-old Bull Terrier mix, as this week's Pet of the Week for October 15—she is spayed, vaccinated, microchipped, and gets flea and tick preventatives.

Amber Villarreal said Zuki loves playing, car rides, dressing up, and resting while needing a home prepared to care for her disability.

Laredo Marathon will return on Nov.

16 and serve as a qualifier for the Boston Marathon using the fast, familiar route before Loop 20 construction is completed+organizers say runners can register for the full marathon, half-marathon, relay, and team events to try their best on the course.

Texas A&M International University will host Maroon Madness on Tuesday, Oct.

21 with pre-event fun starting at 5:30 p.m. outside the Kinesiology Convocation Building. Doors open at 7:30 p.m.—guests will enjoy free food, games, and a Stranger Things twist while the first 1300 visitors receive free T-shirts and prize tickets.

Food Town Laredo

11 PM - 1 AM — 800 Garden St, Laredo, TX — Free entry — Celebrate Laredo's culinary heritage with engaging discussions and workshops on local food culture.

Laredo Coffee Fest

11 AM – 4 PM — The Shoppes at Laredo — Free entry — Celebrate local coffee culture with tastings and unique brews.

Dia De Los Muertos Art Gala & Auction

5-8:30 p.m. — DoubleTree by Hilton Laredo — $110 per ticket — Celebrate Dia De Los Muertos with an art auction, fine dining, and live entertainment.

Veteran’s Appreciation Night

7-10 p.m. — 1848 Event Center — $6,000 Added Money — Celebrate our veterans with thrilling bull riding, live music, and a variety of entertainment.