The Valley Symphony Orchestra will award the 2021 Cultural Leader of the Year Award to KRGV Channel 5 for their loyal support of the Orchestra and of the arts in the Valley. In addition to a history of sponsorship and collaboration, KRGV Channel 5 supported the VSO in 2020-2021 by televising their digital concerts, providing music across the Valley in an exceptionally challenging year.

“We are here to serve the Valley through music, and when we could not do that in person, KRGV helped us do it in a safe way,” said Katy Coy, Executive Director. “With their partnership and support, thousands of viewers have been able to enjoy Symphony performances from the comfort and safety of home.”

KRGV Channel 5 is an ABC-affiliated television station based in Weslaco and serves the entire Rio Grande Valley. The station began broadcasting in April of 1954. Today, KRGV serves more viewers across multiple television and digital platforms than any other television station. KRGV provides news in English on CHANNEL 5 NEWS and in Spanish on AZTECA VALLE to provide important information for everyone in the Rio Grande Valley in the language they prefer. In addition to being a trusted news source for the Valley, KRGV is also a community partner to many non-profit organizations. KRGV and its employees are proud to call the Valley home.

“Music has been such a comfort and healer to so many this year,” said Maestro Peter Dabrowski, VSO music director and conductor. “We know KRGV Channel 5 understands the importance of a community enriched by the arts, and we thank them for leading the way with their support.”

For their dedication to the arts in the Rio Grande Valley, the VSO is pleased to award KRGV Channel 5 the Cultural Leader of the Year award. KRGV will be presented with the award at the Symphony’s annual gala event, BRAVO! VSO. The gala is on May 7 at the McAllen Performing Arts Center and will feature a command performance by the VSO string orchestra, a gourmet white-glove service meal, a silent auction, and more. Edna de Saro, Executive Vice President of Lone Star National Bank is this year’s honorary chair. Bert Ogden BMW is the event’s title sponsor.

“Everything we do is in support of the Valley, including our support of the arts,” said John Kittleman, General Manager of KRGV Channel 5. “We are pleased to be a part of the Symphony’s success this year, and honored by the recognition.”

Tables and tickets for BRAVO! VSO are on sale at valleyorchestra.org or by calling the VSO office at (956) 661-1615 anytime 12-5, M-F. Seating is limited and Covid guidelines will be adhered to throughout the event. For more information, visit www.valleyorchestra.org/event/gala.