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.
Media Contact: Yuri Gonzalez
Phone: (956) 310-2139
Email: [email protected]
Registration Continues for Pharr Connect Digital Literacy Program, Free Laptop Upon Completion
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2025
Pharr, Texas – The City of Pharr is excited to announce its Pharr Connect Digital Literacy Program continues to accept applications from residents. The Pharr Connect Digital Literacy Program is a transformative initiative funded by a $3.2 million grant from Methodist Healthcare Ministries of South Texas, Inc. (MHM). The three-year program, running from 2024 to 2026, aims to bridge the digital divide and promote health equity by enhancing digital literacy, expanding access to technology, and providing valuable resources to Pharr residents.
Those who complete the training will not only gain essential computer and internet skills but will also receive a new laptop upon graduation. Classes are offered in beginner and intermediate levels in both English and Spanish. Each class accommodates about 20 students at a time. The courses are expected to last 4 to 7 weeks depending on skill level. In addition to digital literacy, the city plans to collaborate with external partners to offer training in areas like public health, financial literacy, higher education opportunities, and workforce development.
Methodist Healthcare Ministries is investing over $21 million across South Texas to promote digital equity and ensure that communities have access to broadband, devices, and the skills to use technology effectively.
“At Methodist Healthcare Ministries, we believe that by investing in advancing digital equity, we are not just helping communities to bridge the digital divide, but are also empowering them to access opportunities, connect with vital resources, and take charge of their well-being,” said Jaime Wesolowski, President & CEO of Methodist Healthcare Ministries, in a press release announcing the grant awards. “Our commitment to funding digital equity, evidenced by this investment across Texas, is a testament to our belief that everyone deserves the tools and skills to thrive in the digital age,” he continued.
The funding provided to Pharr will enhance the City’s ability to connect residents with essential digital resources, promote public benefit adoption, and strengthen its community spaces.
The Pharr Connect Digital Literacy Program, part of the broader Pharr Connect initiative, will fund critical programs and resources, including:
Digital Literacy Training Program: Designed to build residents’ digital skills and provide access to essential resources like telehealth and public services.
Laptop Distribution: The program will distribute 600 laptops in 2024, 1,000 laptops in 2025, and 1,000 laptops in 2026 to participants who complete the digital literacy training.
Student Internships & Staff Expansion: The grant will fund new positions and internships to ensure the success and sustainability of the program.
Cyberbullying Prevention and Mental Health Support: Through a partnership with Calix, the program will provide up to 1,000 subscriptions to Bark, a cyberbullying and mental health software designed to protect minors.
Mayor Ambrosio Hernandez, M.D., emphasized the program’s significance by stating, “The Pharr Connect Digital Literacy Program is a transformative initiative for Pharr. By equipping our residents with access to technology and essential digital skills, we are empowering them to connect with vital services, enhance their well-being, and unlock new educational and professional opportunities.” He further added, “We are grateful to Methodist Healthcare Ministries for this incredible investment in our community’s future, and we are excited to see the positive and transformative impact this program will have over the next three years.”
Pharr residents interested in applying for this initiative can visit PharrConnect.net, or call (956) 402-2000.
Media Contact: Yuri Gonzalez
Phone: (956) 310-2139
Email: [email protected]
Apply Now: 2024-2025 Pharr EDC Foundation Scholarship NOW OPEN for Applications
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 14, 2025
Pharr, Texas – The Pharr EDC Foundation, in partnership with the Pharr Economic Development Corporation (EDC) and the City of Pharr, is excited to announce that applications for the 2024-2025 Pharr EDC Foundation Scholarship are now open for eligible students.
“The Pharr EDC Foundation is dedicated to investing in the future of our students by providing financial assistance for higher education,” said Victor Perez, President of the Pharr EDC Foundation and President/CEO of the Pharr EDC. “This scholarship is designed to help students pursue their goals, whether through a college degree or a trade school certification”, he continued. “Our goal is to ensure that every student has an equal opportunity to succeed, no matter their chosen career path,” added Perez.
To apply, students must meet the following criteria: Scholarship Eligibility Requirements
Reside in the City of Pharr or attend school in Pharr, TX
Be a current high school senior graduating in the 2024-2025 academic year
Maintain a minimum GPA of 2.5
Be enrolled as a full-time student in a qualifying post-secondary institution
Complete at least 15 hours of community service or an internship in Pharr, TX
Submit a completed application, personal statement/essay, and all required documents by March 14, 2025, at 5:00 p.m.
A selection committee will review all applications, and recipients will be notified once final decisions are made. Scholarship funds can be used toward tuition, books, supplies, and other educational expenses.
For more details or questions, contact the Pharr EDC Foundation at (956) 402-4332 or via email [email protected].
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!
