Media Contact: Yuri Gonzalez
Phone: (956) 310-2139
Email: [email protected]
COURTESY FORWARD: Chairman Terry Canales to Make an Important Announcement and Presentation TOMORROW, 10/31 @ 10 AM
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 30, 2024
Pharr, Texas – The City of Pharr is pleased to share that Chairman Terry Canales will be making an important announcement and presentation TOMORROW, Thursday, October 31, 2024, at the Pharr One Center AT 10 AM. This event will gather leaders and community members across Hidalgo, Cameron, and Starr counties, and we encourage all media outlets to attend.
All media and the public are invited to attend.
EVENT DETAILS
WHAT: Announcement and Presentation by Chairman Terry Canales
WHEN: Thursday, October 31, 2024 at 10:00 AM
WHERE: Pharr One Center (1121 E. Nolana Loop, Pharr, TX 78577)
COURTESY FORWARD: Please find the original Media Advisory released by Chairman Canales below for more details.
Pharr Police to Host Annual Trunk or Treat Halloween Drive-Thru Event, Thurs., 10/31 @ 6 PM
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2024
Pharr, Texas – The Pharr Police Department invites the community to join us for our Annual Trunk or Treat Halloween Drive-Thru event on Thursday, October 31, 2024, from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM at the Moore Sports Complex (1901 S. Cage Blvd.). Families can expect a fun-filled evening with plenty of free candy for everyone who stops by.
This family-friendly event offers a safe and festive way to celebrate Halloween with Pharr PD, Pharr City Departments, local businesses and organizations setting up decorated vehicles to hand out candy to the community.
We encourage local businesses to take part by hosting a station and helping us create a memorable experience for the community. Businesses interested in participating can register or request additional information by contacting Officer Chris Hernandez at (956) 856-4622.
We look forward to seeing the community come together for an evening of fun, costumes, and Halloween spirit. Don’t miss out on this exciting event and remember to come dressed in your favorite costumes!
The public and media are invited to attend.
DETAILS
WHAT: Pharr Police Department Trunk or Treat
WHEN: Thursday, October 31, 2024, 6-9 PM
WHERE: Moore Sports Complex (1901 S. Cage Blvd, Pharr, TX 78577)
The Board of Commissioners of the City of Pharr met for a regular meeting on Monday, October 21, 2024, and considered an agenda that included the following highlights:
Pharr Proclaims October 21st as “Audrey Zariah Garza Day”
The Pharr City Commission has declared October 21, 2024, as “Audrey Zariah Garza Day” in recognition of Audrey’s remarkable achievements and contributions to her community. Audrey, a talented model and beauty pageant titleholder, was recently crowned All American Miss, a prestigious honor that reflects her grace, poise, and dedication. Starting her journey in pageantry at just six years old, Audrey has proudly held titles such as San Juan Princess Ambassador and South Texas Princess, bringing pride to Hidalgo County. Beyond her success in pageantry, Audrey is deeply involved in her community. She donates blankets to families in need, provides baby supplies to mothers, cheerleads for Capable Kids, and participates in Girl Scouts. Audrey is also a shining example of resilience, having been named Driscoll Miracle Champion for her courage in overcoming the challenges of transverse myelitis, a rare neurological condition. Through her strength and involvement with Driscoll Children’s Hospital, Audrey continues to inspire patients and families. She is now focused on raising awareness about her condition and advocating for children with disabilities, turning her personal challenges into a platform for change. Audrey and her mother were presented with the proclamation by the city commission. “We are so proud of all that you do for your community, your positive attitude, and we celebrate your for your many accomplishments and accolades,” Mayor Ambrosio Hernandez, M.D. stated. “You are an example that the sky is the limit and I am especially proud to so all that you are doing to give back to others,” he added.
Pharr Declares October as “Manufacturing Month”
The Pharr City Commission has declared October 2024 as “Manufacturing Month” to recognize the vital role manufacturing plays in Texas’ economy. With over 24,000 manufacturing firms statewide, 362 in Hidalgo County, this sector contributes more than 11% of Texas’ total output, including $309.6 billion in exports in 2022. Manufacturing employs 7% of the Texas workforce, with 978,000 employees across the state and 7,000 in Hidalgo County. Manufacturing in Reynosa, Mexico, also contributes significantly, with $35 billion in goods crossing through the Pharr International Bridge, representing 70% of total trade. Manufacturing also funds public services and provides well-paying jobs, with an average wage of $1,041 in Hidalgo County. Events throughout the month will showcase modern manufacturing and career opportunities, encouraging support for local products. The proclamation was accepted by Victor Perez, President/CEO of the Pharr EDC, Mike Willis, Executive Director, South Texas Manufacturers Association (STMA), Karina Lopez, Economic Development Manager, Pharr EDC, Belinda Vargas, CTE Coordinator, PSJA ISD, and Rey Perez, Board Member, Pharr EDC. “This month is focused on educating our students, community, and industry about manufacturing and its importance to our economy,” said Mr. Willis. The Pharr EDC, PSJA ISD, and STMA have partnered to host a Manufacturing Day event for PSJA ISD CTE students. They will have the opportunity to meet with companies from Pharr and the region that play a critical role in manufacturing.
Pharr Fire Department Recognized by the Texas Municipal League for “She’s My Hero” Program
The Pharr City Commission recognized Fire Chief Pilar Rodriguez and the Pharr Fire Department for receiving the Texas Municipal League’s Excellence in Service Award for their “She’s My Hero” Program. This initiative, now in its third year, introduces girls aged 6 to 17 to the firefighting profession, encouraging them to consider a career in fire service. The program is led entirely by Pharr’s 12 women firefighters, who serve as role models and teach participants about the duties of a firefighter. Chief Rodriguez emphasized the importance of providing young girls with strong female role models in the field. “They give teenage girls a role model to look up to and show them that they can also be firefighters,” said Chief Rodriguez.
City of Pharr Earns Prestigious Gold Scenic City Certification, Recognizes Development Services
The City of Pharr was honored with the “Gold Scenic City Award” by Scenic Texas at the Texas Municipal League’s (TML) Annual Conference, recognizing its commitment to high-quality municipal standards and long-term planning. Kimberly Mendoza, Director of Development Services, and her team were celebrated for their leadership in earning this distinction. The Scenic City Certification Program evaluates cities based on their infrastructure, streetscapes, and urban development practices. Pharr’s Gold certification highlights its dedication to initiatives such as urban forestry, scenic roads, green space, and historic preservation. This achievement reflects Pharr’s proactive efforts to enhance its visual infrastructure, promoting beauty and sustainability in public spaces. “We are proud to be recognized for continuing to implement high-quality scenic standards for public roadways and open spaces,” said Mendoza. She noted that Pharr previously held Silver certification and was thrilled to advance to Gold this year, reinforcing the city’s commitment to building a thriving, scenic community.
Featured Events:
Pharr PD Trunk or Treat – Thursday, October 31, 2024, from 6 PM to 9 PM
Candy, costumes, vendors, and community! Join the Pharr Police Department for a safe and fun Trunk or Treat event filled with goodies and local vendor booths.
Salute to Veterans Parade & Fireworks- Saturday, November 9th starting at 5:30 PM
Mark your calendars for our annual Salute to Veterans Parade & Fireworks.
Avocado Festival 2024 Draws Record-Breaking Crowd for a Spectacular Celebration in Pharr
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 15, 2024
Pharr, Texas – The City of Pharr is proud to announce the incredible success of Avocado Festival 2024, which drew over 20,000 attendees from across the Valley and beyond! Held on Saturday, October 12, in the heart of Downtown Pharr, this year’s festival not only celebrated all things avocado but also the city’s pivotal role in the produce industry as a gateway to fresh fruits and vegetables for the entire nation.
The festival is part of the “Fresh on the Border” initiative, which celebrates the start of the produce season each October at the Pharr International Bridge. The Pharr International Bridge is the leading U.S. produce crossing, handling more than 60% of the nation’s fresh fruits and vegetables, including avocados, and ensuring communities across the country are nourished year-round. By recognizing the importance of fresh produce, especially avocados, Avocado Festival 2024 paid tribute to Pharr‘s contributions to both local and national food supply chains.
In collaboration with the Pharr Economic Development Corporation (EDC), the Greater Pharr Chamber of Commerce, and the Pharr International Bridge, the City of Pharr was excited to host a day filled with fun, food, and festivities that highlighted the city’s vibrant produce industry and economic strength.
The festival featured an unforgettable lineup of live performances, including Trey Gonzalez, Mesteño, Red – Taylor Swift Tribute, La Casetera, and country music sensation Chris Young, who wowed the crowd as the festival’s headliner. Over 140 local food and market vendors displayed culinary creations and handcrafted goods, while 150 car show participants showcased their unique vehicles, adding to the excitement.
Attendees also enjoyed family-friendly carnival rides, the ever-popular guacamole and avocado costume contests, lucha libre, a petting zoo, and much more, making this year’s festival an extraordinary community event.
Mayor Ambrosio Hernandez, M.D. commented, “Avocado Festival 2024 was not only a celebration of our community and culture, but also a recognition of Pharr’s vital role in distributing fresh produce, especially avocados, across the country. The festival is a testament to our city’s economic vitality and our dedication to bringing the best of Pharr to the world.”
A special thank you to Valley Metro for providing Park and Ride services, ensuring smooth transportation for all. The success of this year’s festival would not have been possible without the support of the Avocado Festival Committee, our sponsors, and the dedicated efforts of the city commission.
As Pharr continues to lead in the fresh produce industry through its international bridge, the city looks forward to continuing to grow this tradition next year, building upon the legacy of Avocado Festival with even more excitement and community spirit.
Pharr Bridge Celebrates 30 Years of “Connecting Two Nations” with 11th Annual Produce Season Kickoff
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 15, 2024
Pharr, Texas – The City of Pharr proudly kicked off the 11th annual official start of the 2024-2025 Produce Season at the Pharr International Bridge during a celebratory event held on Thursday, October 10, 2024. This milestone marked the 30th anniversary of the bridge’s mission of “Connecting Two Nations” and underscored its vital role in facilitating the movement of fresh produce across borders.
The celebration attracted city officials, produce growers, importers, distributors, consumers, and dignitaries from both sides of the border, highlighting the Pharr International Bridge’s ongoing leadership in trade, agriculture, and commerce.
As the third-ranked port in Texas for trade with Mexico and the seventh-largest and fastest-growing land port of entry nationwide, the Pharr International Bridge is central to North American trade and agriculture. The bridge handles over 65% of the nation’s fresh produce imports from Mexico, contributing to more than $47 billion in annual trade and playing a crucial role in boosting the economy at local, state, and national levels.
“The Pharr International Bridge has proudly held the title of the number one produce bridge in the nation, and this event was a testament to our commitment to connecting growers in Mexico with consumers in the U.S.,” said Luis Bazan, Pharr International Bridge Director. “Celebrating our 30th anniversary was an exciting moment for us, and everyone looked forward to this event; it was different, fun, and exciting,” he added.
The kickoff marked one of the busiest and most impactful times of the year for the Pharr International Bridge, emphasizing its essential role in sustaining the flow of fresh goods that benefit millions, while supplying a rich bounty of fruits and vegetables to the United States.
“This was not just a regular ribbon-cutting; we literally cut the first piece of produce for the season,” noted Cindy Garza Reyes, Pharr Assistant City Manager/Director of External Relations. “What started as a small gathering of 40 individuals has now grown to well over 150 participants, showcasing the dedication of the City and our Bridge Department,” said Garza. She added, “Pharr has been instrumental in expanding connections within the industry, and we look forward to another successful season.”
The event also featured the vibrant 3rd annual “Taste of Trade,” where local chefs and restaurants transformed a bounty of fresh produce into mouthwatering culinary creations. Guests were treated to a true farm-to-table experience, giving them the opportunity to savor the flavors of the region, and as a special bonus, every attendee took home their own selection of freshly harvested produce to enjoy!
The City of Pharr thanks all attendees for participating in this time-honored tradition as they kicked off the 2024-2025 Produce Season and celebrated three decades of connecting nations and driving trade.
Join the Pharr Police Department for a safe and fun Trunk or Treat event filled with goodies and local vendor booths.
