by media | Sep 22, 2023 | Featured News, Information, Live, Media Releases, My Pharr, News, News
The Board of Commissioners of the City of Pharr met for a regular meeting on Monday, September 18, 2023, and considered an agenda that included the following highlights:
City Proclaims September 19, 2023, as National I.T. Professionals Day
The Pharr City Commission approved a proclamation declaring September 19, 2023, as National I.T. Professionals Day. This day recognizes the technicians and analysts, developers and architects, engineers and administrators, managers and directors, and all I.T. professionals who make sure our computer systems and networks run smoothly. Jose J. Peña, Director of the City of Pharr Innovation and Technology Department accepted the proclamation alongside members of his staff. Commissioners recognized the accomplishments of the City of Pharr’s I.T. professionals and congratulated the department on the excellent work they have accomplished especially with the implementation of TeamPharr.Net.
City Declares September 23, 2023, as Shriners Legion of Honor Veterans Day
The Pharr City Commission approved a proclamation declaring September 23, 2023, as Shriners Legion of Honor Veterans Day. The City of Pharr is proud to recognize all veterans for their service, sacrifice, and contributions to our nation. The proclamation supports the local Pharr chapter of the Shriners Legion of Honor Veterans which will be hosting a Military Ball honoring and saluting veterans on Saturday, September 23, 2023, at the Nomad Shrine Club located at 1044 W. Nolana Loop in Pharr, Texas. Commander Col. Glaze, Skip Kirkland, and Gilbert Medina accepted the proclamation and invited all veterans to participate in the upcoming event.
City Proclaims September 25, 2023, as National Day of Remembrance for Murder Victims
The Pharr City Commission approved a proclamation declaring September 25, 2023, as National Day of Remembrance for Murder Victims. The observance pays tribute to murder victims and their surviving family members. Crime victims and survivors will gather at events across the country to commemorate this Day of Remembrance by focusing on the impact murder has on families and communities, and ways to support and serve survivors. Robert Garcia, Founder of the Rio Grande Valley Family and Friends of Murdered Children accepted the proclamation and was joined by families of victims from Pharr and the throughout the Rio Grande Valley. The City of Pharr will host the 7th Annual Candlelight Vigil “Together We Climb The Mountain To The Peak Of Hope”, to be held on September 25, 2023, at the Pharr Events Center from 6 pm – 9 pm.
City Approves Ordinance Adopting and Approving 2023-2024 Budget
The Pharr City Commission unanimously approved an Ordinance adopting and approving the budget for the fiscal year beginning October 1, 2023, and ending September 30, 2024. Interim City Manager Jonathan B. Flores announced that the city was proud to produce a balanced budget with a $1 million dollar surplus.
Featured Event: Movies at the Park – Friday, September 22, 2023, from 7 pm to 9 pm
Get ready for a paw-some adventure like never before! 
Join us on September 22nd at 7pm in our Downtown Park for an exclusive screening of the brand-new trailer for “Paw Patrol: The Mighty Movie,” followed by the full Paw Patrol movie! 
Bring your family and friends for an evening filled with excitement, action, and the unstoppable Paw Patrol team. It’s a howling good time you won’t want to miss! 
by media | Sep 14, 2023 | Featured News, Information, Live, Media Releases, My Pharr, News, News
City of Pharr to Host Fresh on the Border Press Conference
Join us as we unveil a new experience where produce takes center stage!
Pharr, Texas – The City of Pharr is thrilled to announce the upcoming Fresh on the Border Press Conference, which will take place on Tuesday, September 19, 2023, at 10 am. This press conference will be held at Traveler Produce LLC in Pharr, Texas, and will showcase a glimpse of harvest through the lens of evolution, from farm to fork. Fresh on the Border will encompass a new experience with key signature events for both the industry stakeholder and the families of the City of Pharr and the Rio Grande Valley.
In partnership with the City of Pharr, the Pharr International Bridge, and the Greater Chamber of Pharr, the entities will highlight and commemorate a significant tenure event while introducing an exciting lineup of additional celebrations that will become home to the City of Pharr. These events under the Fresh on the Border umbrella will be celebrated for years to come.
The Pharr International Bridge (PIB), is known as the number one crossing; over 60% of the nation’s produce comes from the PIB. The bridge also has a long-standing legacy in the produce industry encompassing both the distribution and supply chains. During Fresh on the Border, attendees will get a sneak peek into the exciting details of the upcoming festivities.
We would like to note that media representatives attending this press conference are strongly advised to wear cold weather gear, as the event will take place inside a cold storage unit.
So come and Join us at Fresh on the Border as we unveil the exciting plans and get a FRESH look at what is yet to come!
DETAILS
WHAT: Fresh on the Border
WHERE: Traveler Produce LLC (10701 S International Dr, Pharr, TX 78577)
WHEN: Tuesday, September 19, 2023, 10 AM – 12 PM
by media | Sep 7, 2023 | Featured News, Information, Live, Media Releases, My Pharr, News, News, Police Department, Police News
3rd Annual “Stick by Me” Suicide Prevention Awareness Fair
Pharr, Texas – The Pharr Police Department’s Mental Health Unit announces the 3rd Annual “Stick by Me” Suicide Prevention Awareness Fair.
This event will take place on Friday, September 8, 2023, from 7 – 9 PM at the Pharr Vanguard Academy Nature & Birding Center (1025 S. Richmond Drive, Pharr, TX 78577).
Stick by Me will provide a range of activities and resources designed to spread awareness and support individuals facing mental health challenges. Some highlights of the evening include mental health resources, guest speakers, glowstick vigil, rock painting station and trail walk.
“Our community’s well-being is of top importance, and events like Stick by Me demonstrate our commitment to addressing mental health challenges,” Chief of Police Juan Gonzalez said. “By coming together, we can create a supportive and understanding environment where individuals facing these issues know they are not alone, and help is readily available,” Gonzalez added.
Admission to the 3rd Annual “Stick by Me” Suicide Prevention Awareness Fair is FREE.
The public and media are invited to attend.
For additional information about Stick by Me, please contact Officer Nick Zepeda Perez at [email protected] or Officer Jacklyn Rodriguez at [email protected].
DETAILS:
WHAT: 3rd Annual Stick by Me Suicide Prevention Awareness Fair
WHERE: Pharr Vanguard Academy Nature & Birding Center (1025 S. Richmond Drive, Pharr, TX 78577)
WHEN: Friday, September 8, 2023, from 7 – 9 PM
by media | Aug 31, 2023 | Featured News, Information, Live, Media Releases, My Pharr, News, News, Police News
Pharr Police Department Joins 8th Annual Labor Day DWI “No Refusal Weekend” Campaign
Pharr, Texas – The Pharr Police Department is proud to announce its participation in the 8th Annual Labor Day DWI “No Refusal Weekend” campaign, taking place from Thursday, August 31, through Monday, September 4, 2023. This initiative, aimed at curbing drunk driving and ensuring the safety of our community, will enforce stricter measures for those suspected of driving under the influence.
As part of the “No Refusal Weekend,” anyone who refuses to provide a breath sample during a traffic stop will be subject to immediate blood testing. This effort is a collaborative initiative involving various law enforcement agencies within Hidalgo County, united in their commitment to creating safer roadways and preventing alcohol-related accidents.
“We are dedicated to creating a safer environment for our residents and visitors during the Labor Day holiday,” said Chief of Police Juan Gonzalez, “Our participation in the ‘No Refusal Weekend’ reflects our commitment to reducing the occurrence of drunk driving and preventing potential tragedies on our roads.”
The Pharr Police Department encourages all community members to make responsible choices and to never drink and drive. Together, we can make a difference in ensuring the safety and well-being of everyone on our roadways.
by media | Aug 23, 2023 | Featured News, Information, Live, Media Releases, My Pharr, News, News
City of Pharr Announces it has been Officially Approved as a Certified All Fiber Provider
Jose J. Peña, CGCIO
City of Pharr IT Director
Pharr, Texas – The City of Pharr is ecstatic to announce that it has officially been approved as a Certified All Fiber Provider by the Fiber Broadband Association. The Fiber Broadband Association’s All Fiber Network Certification recognizes members for their commitment to ensuring customers receive the fastest, most reliable broadband services—connectivity delivered over “future-proof” fiber networks.
“This is yet another milestone achievement in the work we are doing here in the City of Pharr to close the digital divide and provide our citizens, businesses, school districts, and surrounding areas with the fastest, most reliable, and affordable internet service through our TeamPharr.Net broadband,” said Mayor Ambrosio Hernandez, M.D. “We are extremely proud of our team who have worked tirelessly to ensure we provide the best service through the highest quality technology, and certification while meeting the demands of our customers,” he added.
The All Fiber Certification is available to Fiber Broadband Association members who demonstrate a high-level of strategic commitment to fiber deployment by ensuring 90% or more of their networks rely on fiber optic infrastructure.
“I congratulate the City of Pharr on its certification,” said Gary Bolton, President and CEO at the Fiber Broadband Association. Service providers, like TeamPharr.Net that qualify for the All Fiber Certification, are leveraging fiber to connect their communities and customers to high-quality internet and digital services that will support broadband needs for decades to come.”
To learn more about the Fiber Broadband Association’s All Fiber Certification, please visit fiberbroadband.org/service-provider-network-certification. To review the entire list of certified network operators, please visit fiberbroadband.org/service-provider-certification-list.
by media | Aug 14, 2023 | Featured News, Information, Live, Media Releases, My Pharr, News, News
Dr. David D. Friedlein and Hilda Pedraza Appointed as City of Pharr Assistant City Managers
Pharr, Texas – During last week’s city commission meeting, Dr. David D. Friedlein was appointed as Pharr’s new Assistant City Manager, and Hilda Pedraza was reappointed as Assistant City Manager by Interim City Manager Dr. Jonathan B. Flores. These two individuals have a long history of public service, community relations, and will work closely alongside Dr. Flores to continue the city’s exceptional growth.
“The City of Pharr is continuing to expand our services, enhance our organizational structure, and propel our city forward into the future,” said Mayor Dr. Ambrosio Hernandez. M.D. “We are proud to welcome Dr. Friedlein to our team and to have reappointed Ms. Pedraza,” he continued. “These positions serve a critical role in fostering community engagement, organizational growth, and working closely with our administration and leadership to ensure we are constantly planning for the future and Pharr’s success,” Hernandez added.
Dr. David D. Friedlein – Pharr Assistant City Manager
Dr. David D. Friedlein is a native of the Rio Grande Valley. He is a public service professional with 20 years of diverse law enforcement experience. Since 2004, he has served in various roles, including patrol, community-oriented policing, criminal investigations, public integrity, and financial services.
“It is an honor to serve the City of Pharr as their new Assistant City Manager,” said Friedlein. “I am excited to work with Dr. Flores and Pharr’s leadership team as we continue to make a positive impact in the lives of the citizens of Pharr,” he added.
Dr. Friedlein is a graduate of the 277th Session of the FBI National Academy and is a member of the FBINA Association. In 2023, he was selected to serve as a member of the FBINAA – Texas Chapter – Finance Audit Committee. He has been married to the love of his life Stephanie for 25 years, and they have four wonderful children Tyler, Shayli, Macy, and Cayden.
Hilda Pedraza – Pharr Assistant City Manager
Hilda Pedraza has more than 22 years of experience in public administration. She began her career in the City of Pharr in October of 2000. She has served as City Clerk for the City of Pharr since 2009 and was first promoted to Assistant City Manager in 2019. As City Clerk, Pedraza serves as the city election administrator, deputy registrar for the Vital Statistics Division, and Records Management Officer for the city. In her role as Assistant City Manager, Pedraza provides direct oversight of programs and operations and works with the City Manager to accomplish the city commission’s vision and strategies. In addition, she also coordinates and develops department budgets, policies, and procedures, and determines appropriate personnel actions to include Fire and Police Civil Service rules and regulations.
“I am honored to continue to work with such a dynamic team of leaders for the betterment of the City of Pharr and to work closely with our city staff, administration, and the community to provide the highest quality services to our constituents,” Pedraza said. “I look forward to working alongside Dr. Flores and Dr. Freidlein, two visionary leaders who are committed to Pharr’s future,” she added.
Pedraza earned her Associate’s Degree of Applied Science in Public Administration and currently holds a Bachelor of Applied Science in Operations Management from South Texas College. She became a Certified Municipal Clerk by the International Institute of Municipal Clerks in 2018 and is Lean Six Sigma Yellow Belt Certified. She is a member of the Texas Municipal Clerks Association, the International Institute of Municipal Clerks, and the Lower Rio Grande Valley City Secretaries Association.
