Media Contact: Yuri Gonzalez
Phone: (956) 310-2139
Email: [email protected]
Pharr’s Holi Festival Returns! Celebrate Community, Culture, and the Arrival of Spring on Sat., 3/22 @ 11 AM
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
THURSDAY, MARCH 20, 2025
Pharr, Texas – The City of Pharr is excited to announce the return of the highly anticipated Holi Festival of Colors, celebrating the joyful arrival of spring.
This colorful event will be held on Saturday, March 22, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM at the Allen & William Arnold City/School Park, located at 615 W El Dora Rd, Pharr, Texas 78577. Admission and parking are FREE!
The Holi Festival of Colors is a beloved tradition that brings together our diverse community in a celebration of unity and joy. Attendees can expect a day filled with cultural activities, delicious food, lively music, and, of course, the iconic color powders that make this event so memorable.
Come celebrate the arrival of spring with friends and family!
The public and media are invited to attend.
DETAILS
WHAT: Holi Festival of Colors
WHEN: Saturday, March 22, 2025 from 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM
WHERE: Allen & William Arnold City/School Park (615 W El Dora Rd, Pharr, Texas 78577)
Pharr Police Department Unveils New Patrol Unit Design
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
FRIDAY, MARCH 14, 2025
Pharr, Texas – The Pharr Police Department is proud to unveil its newly designed police units, representing more than just an update to its fleet—it is a symbol of the department’s unwavering commitment to protecting and serving the community.
The new design reinforces our mission to uphold public safety while maintaining a strong connection with the residents of Pharr. This initiative would not be possible without the continued support of city leadership and the trust of the community.
“We are excited to introduce this fresh new look to our patrol units,” said Pharr Police Chief Juan Gonzalez. “These vehicles are more than just tools of law enforcement—they represent our dedication, vigilance, and readiness to serve. We sincerely thank the City of Pharr for their ongoing support and our community for placing their trust in us to protect their families and neighborhoods.”
Media outlets are invited to use the attached videos, photos, and a statement from Chief Juan Gonzalez for their newscasts.
Media Contact:
Michael L. Martinez
(956) 272-9803
michael.martinez@pharr-tx.gov
Pharr Police Department to Honor Young Cancer Survivor as Junior Officer, FRI 3/7 @ 10 AM
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
MONDAY, MARCH 3, 2025
Pharr, Texas – The Pharr Police Department is honored to host 6-year-old Zayn Ochoa, a brave young boy who has recently triumphed over leukemia and dreams of becoming a police officer. To celebrate his courage and resilience, Zayn will be named a Junior Police Officer by the Pharr Police Department.
The event is scheduled for Friday, March 7, 2025, at 10:00 AM at the Pharr Police Department (1900 S. Cage Blvd.).
During this special event, Zayn will ride in the department’s SWAT BearCat vehicle, tour the Pharr Police Station, receive special Pharr Police gear, and be officially sworn in as a Junior Police Officer.
“Zayn’s strength and determination are truly inspiring,” Chief of Police Juan Gonzalez said. “It is an honor for us to welcome him as part of our team and recognize his bravery. We hope this experience brings him joy and encouragement as he continues to pursue his dreams,” Gonzalez added.
We invite members of the media to join us in capturing this heartwarming moment as the Pharr Police Department makes Zayn’s dream come true.
To confirm your attendance or for additional information, please contact Michael Martinez (michael.martinez@pharr-tx.gov).
DETAILS:
WHAT: Special event honoring 6-year-old Zayn Ochoa as a Junior Police Officer
WHEN: Friday, March 7, 2025, 10:00 AM
WHERE: Pharr Police Department (1900 S. Cage Blvd., Pharr, TX 78577)
Media Contact: Yuri Gonzalez
Phone: (956) 310-2139
Email: yuri.gonzalez@pharr-tx.gov
City of Pharr Launches Alley Maintenance Project
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 5, 2025
Pharr, Texas – The City of Pharr is initiating the Alley Maintenance Project focused on improving public alleys throughout the city.
The project, spearheaded by the Public Works Department, will involve clearing debris, trimming overgrown grass and tree limbs, and leveling alleys with asphalt millings (recycled pavement material, also known as blacktop).
The work started on the south side of Pharr, and will then progress west, east, and finally conclude on the north side. A crew of 10 staff members is dedicated to the cleanup effort. This is an ongoing effort as all public alleys in the city will be addressed.
Residents are strongly encouraged to help maintain alley cleanliness by picking up debris and avoiding illegal dumping. The city urges residents to take an active role in keeping their alleys clean. Any concerns or questions can be directed to the Public Works Department at 956-402-4350.
Media is invited to cover this story. Interviews with our Public Works Department are available upon request.
The Board of Commissioners of the City of Pharr met for a regular meeting on Tuesday, February 25, 2025, and considered an agenda that included the following highlights:
City Commission Proclaims February 2025 as Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month
The Pharr City Commission proclaimed February 2025 as Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month, reaffirming the City’s commitment to protecting and educating young people about the dangers of unhealthy relationships. This initiative underscores the importance of awareness, prevention, and community engagement in breaking the cycle of abuse and fostering a culture of respect and nonviolence. The resolution was accepted by Veronica Perez, Executive Director of Angels of Love, along with the organization’s Victims Advocate. Angels of Love, a dedicated nonprofit, works to support survivors, raise awareness, and promote healthy relationships within the community. Expressing her gratitude, Perez stated, “Thank you for always working with our organization to spread awareness to our PSJA ISD community and students.” Standing alongside Angels of Love and the Expect Respect program, the City of Pharr continues its mission to empower youth, promote safety, and encourage positive relationship-building. Together, through education and advocacy, we can create a future where all young people feel supported, respected, and safe.
Pharr Declares February 23, 2025, as “Serve Above Self Day” and “Painting the Magic of Rotary”
The Pharr City Commission has officially proclaimed February 23, 2025, as “Serve Above Self Day” and “Painting the Magic of Rotary” in recognition of Rotary International’s 120 years of global service and the Pharr Rotary Club’s 69 years of dedicated contributions to the local community. The proclamation was presented to Judge Jaime Muñoz, President of the Pharr Rotary Club, who accepted it alongside members Jorge Flores, Roberto Diaz, Fred Garza, and Jose Pequeño. The group highlighted Rotary’s long-standing commitment to service, emphasizing the impact the Pharr chapter has had in supporting students, families, and individuals in need throughout the Pharr area. Guided by the Rotary motto, “Service Above Self,” members are inspired to provide humanitarian service, encourage high ethical standards, and promote goodwill and peace worldwide. “We are proud to give back to our community and provide services that foster community and goodwill,” said Judge Muñoz. The Pharr Rotary Club remains deeply involved in the community, recognizing outstanding students through its Rotary Student of the Month program, hosting annual Christmas celebrations for Casa Esperanza and special needs students in PSJA ISD, and sponsoring nine scholarships totaling $15,000 for PSJA high school students each year. Committed to service above self, the Pharr Rotary Club continues to make a lasting difference by fostering goodwill, supporting education, and enhancing the quality of life in Pharr.
City Commission Proclaims February 16-22, 2025, as “National Engineers Week”
The Pharr City Commission has officially proclaimed February 16-22, 2025, as National Engineers Week, recognizing the invaluable contributions engineers make in shaping our communities. This proclamation highlights the critical role engineers play in expanding infrastructure, solving technological challenges, and improving the quality of life for residents. The resolution was presented to and accepted by Maria Rangel, Pharr City Engineer, alongside her 12-member team from the Pharr City Engineering Department. Rangel proudly acknowledged her team’s dedication, stating, “We’re a team of 12 young professionals who embody the city’s values, and this is the team behind the city’s capital improvement projects that expand our infrastructure and improve the quality of life of our residents.” Expressing gratitude for the City’s leadership, Rangel added, “We thank the mayor and commissioners for their recognition and support of our team of engineers, who work tirelessly to build a vibrant and thriving city.” The City of Pharr is proud to recognize the engineers whose innovation, expertise, and commitment drive progress and sustainability, ensuring a brighter future for the entire community.
Pharr City Commission Cancels May 2025 General Municipal Election
The Pharr City Commission has approved an ordinance to cancel the General Municipal Election scheduled for May 3, 2025. The decision follows the determination that Roberto “Bobby” Carrillo, Commissioner for Place 2; Ramiro Caballero, Commissioner for Place 3; and Daniel Chavez, Commissioner for Place 4, are the only candidates to have qualified for these respective positions and are unopposed in the upcoming election. As a result, no election will be held for these positions.
Pharr City Commission Appoints Roberto Carrillo Jr. as Alternate Member to the Planning and Zoning Commission
The Pharr City Commission has approved the appointment of Roberto Carrillo Jr. as an alternate member to the Planning and Zoning Commission. This appointment fills a vacancy for an unexpired term on the Commission, ensuring that the Planning and Zoning Commission is fully staffed. As an alternate member, Carrillo will be available to serve in cases of absence or conflicts, supporting the ongoing work and decisions of the Commission.
Featured Events:
19th Annual St. Patrick’s 5K Walk & Run – Saturday, March 1, 2025, starting at 8 AM
🍀 Get Ready for the 19th Annual St. Patrick’s 5K Run & Walk! 🍀
Lace up your sneakers and join us for a day of fun, fitness, and community spirit at the 19th Annual St. Patrick’s 5K Run & Walk, hosted by Pharr Parks & Recreation! Whether you’re running, walking, or cheering on your friends and family, this event promises to be a shamrockin’ good time! 🌟 Bring your energy, wear your green, and celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with us. Don’t miss out on the fun—mark your calendars and come join the excitement this Saturday! 🍀🎉👟
IMPORTANT: No packets will be distributed on the day of the race.
Community Open House – Monday, March 10, 2025, from 6 PM – 7:30 PM
Be a part of Pharr’s bright future!
Join us for Community Open House to explore Our Pharr Our Future, the city’s new comprehensive plan. Share your ideas on land use, transportation, parks, and more
Pharr One – 1121 E. Nolana Loop, Pharr, TX 78577 6PM – 7:30PM
Cody’s Eggstravaganza Block Party – Thursday, March 13, 2025, from 5:30 PM – 7 PM
Cody’s Eggstravaganza Block Party!
Join the City of Pharr’s Building and Code Compliance Department for Cody’s Eggstravaganza Block Party on March 13, 2025!
Dr. William Long Park – 1000 E. Eldora Rd. Pharr, TX 5:30 pm to 7:00 pm
Day with a raffle, pizza (while supplies last), and plenty of excitement for the whole family! Don’t miss out on the egg-citement!
HOLI Pharr Festival of Colors – Saturday, March 22, 2025, from 11 AM – 3 PM
The City of Pharr, in collaboration with the India Association of the Rio Grande Valley, Gujarati Samaj of RGV, and New Navadvip Dham, invites you to experience the magic of Holi: Festival of Colors on March 22nd, 2025!
615 W Eldora Rd, Pharr, TX 78577 11 AM – 3 PM
Celebrate the arrival of spring with a burst of colors, joy, and togetherness! Get ready for a day filled with music, dance, and vibrant traditions.
Don’t miss out on this unforgettable celebration! :
She’s My Hero First Responders Edition Camp – Saturday, April 5, 2025, from 9 AM – 4 PM
Registration for She’s My Hero is NOW OPEN!
Boys and girls—don’t miss this exciting opportunity to learn firsthand about the duties and roles of Pharr firefighters and first responders! Get hands-on experience in activities taught by the incredible women of the Pharr Fire Department!
Only 56 spots available! Register for FREE by visiting Pharr City Hall, 3rd floor.
MEDIA ADVISORY
Media Contact: Yuri Gonzalez
Phone: (956) 310-2139
Email: [email protected]
Pharr EMS Offering Free Hands-Only CPR & Stop the Bleed Courses, Registration Open
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 2025
Pharr, Texas – Pharr EMS is offering a FREE Hands-Only CPR & Stop the Bleed course, providing community members with essential lifesaving skills. Participants will learn how to perform hands-only CPR, a simple yet effective technique that can help save lives in emergency situations, as well as Stop the Bleed techniques to control life-threatening bleeding before emergency responders arrive.
Today’s course will take place at Pharr EMS Headquarters (3000 N. Cage Blvd., Pharr, TX 78577), from 6 PM to 8 PM.
This course is open to the public at no cost. Hands-only CPR focuses on chest compressions without mouth-to-mouth breathing, making it an accessible and easy-to-learn method for responding to cardiac emergencies. Stop the Bleed focuses on techniques to control bleeding from severe injuries using pressure, wound packing, and tourniquet application. No prior experience is required.
Pharr One – 1121 E. Nolana Loop, Pharr, TX 78577
6PM – 7:30PM
:
Registration for She’s My Hero is NOW OPEN! 
Get hands-on experience in activities taught by the incredible women of the Pharr Fire Department!
