City of Pharr Launches Internship Program, PharrInitiative Offers High School and College Students Hands-On Municipal Experience
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024
Pharr, Texas – The City of Pharr is excited to announce the launch of the PharrInitiative, a dynamic 4-week internship program designed to provide high school juniors and seniors as well as college freshmen and sophomores with an immersive experience in municipal operations.
This internship offers an unparalleled opportunity for individuals to explore their interests, gain hands-on experience, and forge connections within local government.
“We are proud to announce the launch of this initiative aimed at providing high school and college students with invaluable hands-on experience in municipal governance,” said Pharr Mayor Ambrosio Hernandez, M.D. He continued, “This program reflects our commitment to nurturing the next generation of leaders and fostering a culture of innovation and excellence in public service while empowering young minds, cultivating talent, and creating pathways for success, as we simultaneously advance the goals and priorities of our vibrant city.”
Participants will have the chance to work across a range of city departments, including but not limited to administration, public works, human resources, media, IT, and more.
Internships begin in late May and will run through early August and are paid.
The city’s own podcast, Pharr Cast, discusses the program in-depth with City Manager Dr. Jonathan Flores who explains the importance of the internships and their benefit to students.
MEDIA ADVISORY
Media Contact: Yuri Gonzalez
Phone: (956) 310-2139
Email: [email protected]
City of Pharr Introduces Video to 9-1-1 Connectivity Software for Public Safety Communications, THURS 5/16 @ 10:30 AM
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
TUESDAY, MAY 14, 2024
Pharr, Texas – The City of Pharr is thrilled to announce a press conference unveiling next generation video to 9-1-1 software that’s currently in use at the Pharr Public Safety Communications Department.
This addition to our emergency response toolkit allows dispatchers and first responders to visually assess emergencies in real-time, enabling quicker and more informed decision-making to assist those in need before emergency crews arrive.
The press conference will take place on Thursday, May 16, 2024, starting at 10:30 AM at the Pharr ONE Building located at 1121 E Nolana Loop, Pharr, TX 78577.
Carbyne, provider of this new software, is one of the largest rich-data providers for emergency response centers, delivering over 250M data points per year, all in a unified platform.
A full breakdown of the software, how it is used, and the benefits to the community will be discussed.
Media is invited to attend.
To RSVP, please contact Michael Martinez at (956) 272-9803 or [email protected]
DETAILS
WHAT: Video to 9-1-1 Press Conference
WHEN: Thursday, May 16, 2024, 10:30 AM
WHERE: Pharr ONE Building (1121 E Nolana Loop, Pharr, TX 78577)
MEDIA ADVISORY
Media Contact: Yuri Gonzalez
Phone: (956) 310-2139
Email: [email protected]
Pharr EMS Invites Community to Learn Lifesaving Procedures and Tour EMS Headquarters, Thurs. 5/23 @ 8:30 AM
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
FRIDAY, MAY 10, 2024
Pharr, Texas – The City of Pharr invites the public to participate in a special Stop the Bleed event hosted by Pharr EMS at their headquarters. May 23rd is Save a Life Day and National Stop the Bleed Day.
In honor of these special occasions and as part of EMS Week, visitors will have the opportunity to attend FREE Stop the Bleed and Hands-Only CPR courses and tour the Pharr EMS Headquarters throughout the day on Thursday, May 23, 2024, from 8:30 am to 8:00 pm.
The Stop the Bleed event aims to empower individuals with the knowledge and skills to assist in a bleeding emergency before professional help arrives. Participants will learn life-saving techniques from certified instructors.
In addition to the training courses, attendees will have the unique chance to tour the Pharr EMS headquarters and gain insight into the operations of an ambulance. This behind-the-scenes experience offers a valuable perspective on the vital role of emergency medical services in our community.
Classes will be conducted throughout the day with the following schedule:
8:30 AM – 10 AM
10:30 AM – 12 PM
1:30 PM – 3 PM
3:30 PM – 5 PM
6:30 PM – 8 PM
Tours for Pharr EMS will be available anytime from 8:30 AM to 8 PM.
DETAILS
WHAT: Stop the Bleed, Hand-Only CPR Training and EMS Tour
WHEN: Thursday, May 23, 2024, 8:30 AM to 8 PM
WHERE: Pharr EMS Headquarters (3000 N. Cage Blvd. Pharr, TX 78577)
The Board of Commissioners of the City of Pharr met for a regular meeting on Monday, May 6, 2024, and considered an agenda that included the following highlights:
Pharr Declares May 6, 2024, as “Age-Friendly City Day”
Mayor Ambrosio Hernandez, M.D., and the Pharr City Commission approved a proclamation declaring May 6, 2024 as “City of Pharr Age-Friendly City Day” in observance of the advocacy initiative aimed at creating opportunities for active and friendly aging. Active aging is a life-long process, whereby an age-friendly community is not just“elder friendly” but also intended to be friendly for all ages while fostering environments that honor, support, and integrate older adults into all aspects of social life. The Age-Friendly Rio Grande Valley (AF-RGV) Initiative, led by Dr. Sudershan Pasupuleti, Professor of UTRGV School of Social Work, and his team with a Seed Grant and in collaboration with LRGV Area Agency on Aging, encourages cities and counties to promote age-friendly communities throughout the Rio Grande Valley. Dr. Pasupuleti accepted the proclamation and thanked the Pharr City Commission for their support. “We are currently conducting a study to identify the needs of elderly people including those with dementia, and this research, which is based here in the Rio Grande Valley, will help to address the needs and create policies that benefit and support an age-friendly community for the elderly,” said Dr. Pasupuleti. The City of Pharr is dedicated to ensuring the needs and interests of all residents are served, and as an age-friendly community, it will take the lead in optimizing opportunities for all ages.
City Proclaims May 12-18, 2024, as “Pharr Police Memorial Week”
Mayor Ambrosio Hernandez, M.D., and the Pharr City Commission approved a proclamation declaring the week of May 12-18, 2024, as “Pharr Police Memorial Week” and also recognized May 15th as Peace Officers’ Memorial Day in recognition of the service and sacrifice of those law enforcement officers killed in the line of duty while protecting our communities and safeguarding our democracy. Members from the Pharr Police Department were present to accept the proclamation, thanking the city for its support and remembering one of their own, Sgt. JL Garcia, who passed away in the line of duty on August 9, 2013. The City of Pharr is proud to designate and publicly salute the service of law enforcement officers in our community and communities across the nation. During Pharr Police Memorial Week, we extend our heartfelt thanks to the brave men and women of the Pharr Police Department. Your unwavering commitment to serving and protecting our community is truly commendable. We honor the sacrifices you make each day to keep us safe. Thank you for your dedication and service!
Pharr Declares May 19-25, 2024 as “Emergency Medical Services Week”
Mayor Ambrosio Hernandez, M.D., and the Pharr City Commission approved a proclamation declaring the week of May 19-25, 2024 as “Emergency Medical Services Week” in the City of Pharr. Emergency medical services are a vital public service with members of emergency medical services teams ready to provide life-saving care to those in need 24 hours a day, seven days a week in our community. During Emergency Medical Services Week in the City of Pharr, we extend our deepest appreciation to the dedicated EMS professionals who provide life-saving care in our community. Pharr EMS Chief Danny Ramirez and members of his staff accepted the proclamation. “During this week we recognize our pre-hospital professionals and all EMS personnel for the strong work they do,” said Chief Ramirez. “Throughout this week, we are also working to encourage the new, younger, generation of EMS professionals and will be visiting several schools to encourage students to learn about the profession and the critical role EMS plays in our community,” he added. Pharr EMS will also host a Stop the Bleed event to provide life-saving skills and CPR to the community. Your commitment to helping others, often in critical moments, is invaluable. Thank you for your unwavering dedication and service!
City Proclaims May 2024 as “Stroke Awareness Month”
Mayor Ambrosio Hernandez, M.D., and the Pharr City Commission approved a proclamation declaring the month of May 2024 as “Stroke Awareness Month” in the City of Pharr. Strokes are the leading cause of long-term disability and the third leading cause of death in the State of Texas. Someone has a stroke every 40 seconds and every 4 minutes someone dies from a stroke. In the Rio Grande Valley, approximately 3,600 people are hospitalized annually due to stroke and there were at least 196 deaths in 2023. It is estimated that only about 17% of patients suffering from a stroke in the Rio Grande Valley arrive at a hospital within 1 hour of their stroke onset because the community members do not recognize stroke or understand the importance of calling 911 immediately. Stroke warning signs can be recognized using the acronym BE FAST (Balance, Eyes, Face, Arm, Speech, and Time) which include sudden numbness or weakness of the face, arm, or leg especially on one side of the body; sudden confusion, trouble speaking or understandings; sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes; sudden trouble walking dizziness, loss of balance or coordination; and sudden severe headaches with no known cause. Mario Lizcano, Administrator of Corporate Affairs at DHR Health, Irene Lares, RN, MSN, Vice President of Neuroscience at DHR Health, and Dr. Patricia M. Fernandez, M.D., MBA accepted the proclamation. “We want to thank the City of Pharr for the educational support and collaboration you allow us to continue to provide the community as we work together to enhance stroke awareness,” said Lizcano while accepting the proclamation. Dr. Fernandez added, “Stroke is the main cause of disability and death in Texas, and we thank you for helping our community, friends, and family raise awareness about this important health issue.” Throughout this important month, the City of Pharr is dedicated to expanding educational awareness and advocacy to help identify strokes and raise awareness of the importance of acting quickly.
Pharr Public Safety Communications Director and Dispatcher Receive Prestigious Awards
Mayor Ambrosio Hernandez, M.D., and the Pharr City Commission recognized Pharr Public Safety Communications Director Kenneth Ennis who recently earned the 2024 Texas NENA President’s Award and the 2023 Texas NENA Operations Professional of the Year Award, and Pharr Dispatcher Carlos Avendaño who was presented with the 2024 Texas NENA Silent Hero Award for their dedication to public safety during the 2024 Texas Public Safety Conference held in April. “We are proud to represent the City of Pharr and our outstanding public safety communications professionals who work diligently every day to help save lives and provide a source of support during emergencies,” said Ennis. “These awards are a testament to our hard-working staff,” he added. Ennis also announced that for the first time-ever in 25 years, the 2025 Texas Public Safety Conference will be held in the Rio Grande Valley.
FEATURED EVENTS:
Meet Our Pharr Public Safety Dispatch Team – Thursday, May 16, 2024 at 5:30 pm
Stop the Bleed – Thursday, May 23, 2024 – Classes Offered All Day
MEDIA ADVISORY
Media Contact: Yuri Gonzalez
Phone: (956) 310-2139
Email: [email protected]
Matt’s Building Materials Plans Grand Re-Opening & Ribbon Cutting 2 Years After Fire, WED 4/24 @ 10:30 AM
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
TUESDAY, APRIL 23, 2024
Pharr, Texas – The City of Pharr, in collaboration with the Greater Pharr Chamber of Commerce, is pleased to announce the grand re-opening of Matt’s Building Materials, two years after a devastating fire destroyed the original establishment.
The re-opening and ribbon-cutting ceremony will take place on Wednesday, April 24, 2024, starting at 10:30 am at Matt’s Building Materials, located at 404 E. Expressway 83, Pharr, TX 78577.
The grand re-opening signifies a special milestone for Matt’s Building Materials who has been in the process of re-building after the New Year’s Day fire in 2022. The event will feature remarks from city officials, representatives from the Chamber of Commerce, and the owner of Matt’s Building Materials, highlighting the resilience and determination demonstrated in the face of adversity.
Members of the public and media are cordially invited to attend the ceremony.
DETAILS
WHAT: Matt’s Building Materials Grand Re-Opening & Ribbon Cutting
WHEN: April 24, 2024, at 10:30 AM
WHERE: Matt’s Building Materials (404 E. Expressway 83, Pharr, TX 78577)
The Board of Commissioners of the City of Pharr met for a regular meeting on Monday, April 15, 2024, and considered an agenda that included the following highlights:
Pharr Proclaims April 14-20 as “National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week”
Mayor Ambrosio Hernandez, M.D., and the Pharr City Commission approved a proclamation declaring April 14-20, 2024 as “National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week” in Pharr. The city recognizes that public safety telecommunicators are on the front lines, communicating and coordinating public safety services in the face of critical needs. The week recognizes dispatchers, 9-1-1 operators, and crisis communications specialists for the outstanding work they provide in service to our communities, all while remaining poised during stressful situations, reassuring callers, and establishing swift responses to all emergencies. The proclamation was accepted by Kenneth Ennis, Pharr Director of Public Safety Communications, members of his staff, and Maya, the department’s emotional support dog. “We thank you for this proclamation which recognizes the great work our staff does daily,” said Ennis. He continued, “Not only are we the silent heroes, but the invisible heroes who are behind the scenes providing critical support to all emergencies.” He also announced that staff is being celebrated with a themed week in honor of their hard work. The City of Pharr encourages all citizens to learn more about the impactful role these dedicated professionals play in our lives and to extend their appreciation to public safety telecommunications. Thank you to all our City of Pharr Public Safety Telecommunicators for all that you do!
Pharr Declares April 14-20 as “National Animal Control Officer Appreciation Week”
Mayor Ambrosio Hernandez, M.D., and the Pharr City Commission approved a proclamation declaring April 14-20, 2024 as “National Animal Control Officer Appreciation Week” in Pharr. The National Animal Care and Control Association has designated the second week of April each year as “National Animal Control Officer Appreciation Week” to recognize the work of Animal Control Officers who are dedicated to helping pets and people in the community. The City of Pharr recognizes that Animal Control Officers put themselves in potentially dangerous situations by protecting people from dangerous animals and seek justice in cases of abused, neglected, and abandoned animals by conducting humane investigations and protecting the welfare of helpless animals and pets from injury, disease, and starvation. City of Pharr Animal Control officers accepted the proclamation. “We want to thank our Animal Control staff for everything they do for our community and their hard work and their efforts,” said Dr. Jonathan B. Flores, City Manager. The City of Pharr honors Animal Control Officers for the many dedicated and long hours of service they perform and encourages all citizens to join us in expressing their sincere appreciation for their service and dedication throughout this special week.
Pharr IT Department Recognized for Earning the 2024 Texas Association of Government IT Managers Excellence Award for the TeamPharr.Net Project
Pharr IT Director Jose Peña announced to the city commission that the Pharr IT Department has earned the prestigious 2024 Excellence Award from the Texas Association of Government IT Managers (TAGITM). The TAGITM Excellence Awards are an annual highlight, presented during the association’s education conference. Recognizing standouts in innovation, nominations for the award are made by members of the TAGITM themselves, illustrating the esteem in which the Unify Project is held among industry professionals. Mr. Peña was joined by members of his staff including Rogelio Martinez, Assistant Director, to announce the award. “Our team has done an exceptional job innovating, implementing, and providing high-quality service as we continue to expand our TeamPharr.Net internet services throughout the city,” said Peña. He added, “This Excellence Award is something we are extremely proud to have earned and is among the most recent accolades our department has been acknowledged with.” The City of Pharr has been recognized at the local, state, and national levels for its innovative approach to closing the digital divide through its high-speed fiber optic network, TeamPharr.Net. “You should be very proud of yourselves for this accomplishment and for the recognition your department has received for this high-quality project implementation and customer service,” stated Mayor Hernandez. “We are so proud of your team and especially to see this project’s success and its impact on our community,” he continued. “Congratulations, and keep up the great work!” The city is currently connecting around 500 homes a month with plans to continue to Phase 2 which will work towards connecting Pharr businesses.
Featured Events:
She’s My Hero – Saturday, April 27, 2024, from 8 am to 4 pm
Pharr Warrior Race – Sunday, May 4, 2024, at 7 am
Night Under the Stars: Mother’s Day – Friday, May 10, 2024, at 7:30 pm
Sneaker Phest – Saturday, May 25, 2024, from 11 am to 7 pm
