Jim Harrington’s Book Signing Relocated to España Restaurant Amid Power Cut in McAllen
In a sudden turn of events, Jim Harrington, renowned Texas civil rights attorney, found his scheduled book signing and conversation event relocated from the Historic Cine El Rey Theater to the España Nouveau Mediterranean restaurant in McAllen. The change of venue was necessitated after the City of McAllen shut off electricity to over 20 nightlife establishments, including El Cine Rey, due to non-compliance with essential safety certifications.
Event Details and Background
On Sunday, September 14, 2025, Harrington’s event kicked off at España at 4:00 p.m., where he signed advance copies of his latest book, “The Texas Civil Rights Project – How We Built a Social Justice Movement.” At a discounted price of $20, visitors eager to immerse themselves in Harrington’s advocacy journey were given a glimpse into his decades-long fight for justice. Harrington, a pivotal figure against police brutality towards Mexican Americans during the 1970s, remains a key advocate for social justice.
Bert Guerra, owner of The Historic Cine El Rey Theater and initial host of the event, expressed his deep admiration for Harrington’s contributions to McAllen. “It is an honor to host Jim Harrington and welcome him back to McAllen, Texas – a city he held accountable during some of its darkest and abusive periods in history – not to bring it down but to lift it up,” said Guerra. His words underscore Harrington’s integral role in uplifting community spirit and fostering justice.
Throughout the event, the atmosphere at España was lively and engaging, especially during the public Q&A session moderated by Steve Taylor, editor and publisher of the Rio Grande Guardian. Attendees were free to interact with the civil rights icon, enabling an open dialogue on advocacy and justice.
McAllen’s Initiative for Community Safety
The City of McAllen’s decision to cut off power was part of a broader safety initiative, propelled by an assault on a police officer in the city’s entertainment district. This enforcement underscored the significance of obtaining and maintaining certificates of occupancy, which guarantee compliance with building codes and safety standards.
McAllen Mayor Javier Villalobos emphasized the city’s dedication to safety without stifling the vibrancy of its nightlife. He expressed a potential policy shift to raise the minimum age for bar entry from 18 to 21, aiming to curb incidents and foster a responsible entertainment environment.
“We remain committed to ensuring that McAllen’s nightlife is not only lively but also safe for everyone. Proper certification is not red tape; it’s a necessary safeguard,” Villalobos stated. His comments reflect the delicate balance between safety and business support the city is striving to achieve.
Impact on the Rio Grande Valley Community
For Valley residents and local businesses, this clampdown highlights an ongoing struggle between maintaining safety standards and supporting economic activity. The Rio Grande Valley, known for its vibrant cultural and social scene, now faces a pivotal moment in ensuring that growth does not compromise safety.
Maria Rodriguez, a local business owner, shared her perspective: “While I understand the need for safety measures, it’s important that we find ways to resolve these issues without unfairly impacting compliant businesses.” Her sentiment captures the shared concern among many in the community navigating these regulations.
Future Implications and Community Response
As McAllen continues to address regulatory compliance, the future implications for the local economy could be significant. Businesses may need to accelerate their efforts in securing necessary documentation to avoid power disruptions, which can be a costly inconvenience and deter tourism and local patronage.
The City of McAllen has reiterated its commitment to supporting businesses in reaching compliance, ensuring that power is promptly restored once standards are met. This proactive approach seeks to reaffirm the city’s dedication to sustainable economic growth and community safety.
Looking forward, officials and community members alike carry the responsibility of fostering open communication to navigate these changes effectively. By doing so, the community can work towards solutions that honor both safety and the vitality of McAllen’s nightlife.
For those seeking further information on this initiative or assistance with compliance requirements, the city has provided resources including contact centers and online guidance, ensuring businesses have ample support during this adjustment.
As the Rio Grande Valley continues to grow and evolve, maintaining an equilibrium between progress and preservation remains essential. The unfolding changes not only influence McAllen but provide a benchmark for other communities striving to blend tradition with transformation.
