Author Archives: VBR

The Elsa Economic Development Corporation is looking to support local entrepreneurs with the launch of the Lift Elsa Incentive Program. The small business loan initiative will boost cash flow and provide affordable capital for businesses in Elsa. In partnership with LiftFund, the program offers zero-percent interest loans to eligible businesses. Through this initiative, the Elsa EDC is buying down the interest on loans up to $50,000. They are eliminating interest…

Clark Family Unveils Sleek New Branding

March 6, 2025

VBR

e-Brief Features News Transportation & Travel Comments

The Clark Family has rolled out a new brand identity, unifying its Honda and Chevrolet dealerships under one cohesive vision. According to a release, the rebrand “reflects the Clark’s long standing commitment to their customers, their deep-rooted presence in the Rio Grande Valley, and focus on delivering an excellent automotive experience.” “Since 1933, the Clark Family has been known for its exceptional service and dedication to our customers. This rebrand…

Burkhart Receives 40 Under 40 Award

February 27, 2025

VBR

e-Brief Features Moving On Up News Comments

Nathan Burkhart, vice president for Entrepreneurship & Innovation at the Brownsville Community Improvement Corporation, is a recipient of the 2025 Economic Development 40 Under 40 Award. The biennial award recognizes rising stars under 40 years old in the economic development industry. The awards program is hosted by Development Counsellors International and Jorgenson Pace Inc. An independent selection committee of six economic development leaders and site selection consultants evaluated nominations based…

Winter Texan Fiesta Takes Place March 7

February 27, 2025

VBR

Community Events e-Brief Features News Comments

The Greater Mission Chamber of Commerce invites Winter Texans and the local community to the Winter Texan Fiesta on March 7 at Leo Peña Placita Park in Mission. The free annual event acknowledges the invaluable contributions that Winter Texans make to the local economy, culture and community. The Winter Texan Fiesta features live music, local vendors and an atmosphere that captures the unique spirit of Mission. In addition, the first…

Fiesta Edinburg Begins Feb. 27

February 20, 2025

VBR

Community Events e-Brief Features Featured News Comments

The 56th annual Fiesta Edinburg is coming up from February 27 to March 2 at the Bert Ogden Arena, expecting to draw in thousands of attendees to Edinburg. This year’s star-studded musical lineup kicks off on Friday with Corrido artist Edgardo Nuñez, T3R Elemento, and Nivel. On Saturday, five-time Grammy Award winner La Mafia takes the stage as well as Latin Grammy Award-winning artist and former lead singer of Grupo…

Pharr EDC Foundation Scholarship Now Open

February 20, 2025

VBR

Community e-Brief Features Education News Comments

The Pharr EDC Foundation, in partnership with the Pharr Economic Development Corporation and the City of Pharr, is currently accepting applications from eligible students for the 2024-2025 Pharr EDC Foundation Scholarship. Applications are available online with a submission deadline of March 14 by 5 p.m. “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…

McAllen Breaks Sales Tax Record

February 20, 2025

VBR

e-Brief Features Government News Retail Comments

The City of McAllen has shattered its all-time sales tax record, receiving an unprecedented $11.9 million in February’s sales tax allocation for the same month of December (2024 vs 2023). This is a 12.3 percent increase over last year’s collection for the same period. The milestone surpasses the previous high of $10.6 million collected last year. “McAllen’s long-term strategy of becoming a destination city, encouraging booming residential and commercial development, facilitating international…

McAllen Passport Division Hosts Saturday Hours

February 13, 2025

VBR

News Comments

The City of McAllen Passport Division will be open on Feb. 22 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at its facility in the McAllen Downtown Parking Garage at 221 South 15th Street. Applicants must be present and must provide a valid photo identification with a signature and proof of citizenship, such as a certified birth certificate or certificate of naturalization. All documents must be originals. Passport fees must be paid…

USS John F. Kennedy Makes Final Voyage to Port of Brownsville

February 13, 2025

VBR

News Comments

Clear skies and fair weather welcomed spectators gathered along the shores of South Padre Island’s Isla Blanca Park on Feb. 2, to bid farewell to the storied USS John F. Kennedy (CV-67) as she entered the Brownsville ship channel for dismantling and recycling at International Shipbreaker Ltd. Commissioned in 1968 and decommissioned in 2007, the JFK served the U.S. Navy with distinction for nearly four decades. Among those present to see the vessel’s final…

MFE Reaches Historic Passenger Milestone

February 6, 2025

VBR

e-Brief Features News Transportation & Travel Comments

McAllen International Airport achieved a historic milestone for commercial air service in the Rio Grande Valley in 2024 with more than 1.2 million travelers. This achievement marks a 25 percent increase in year-over-year total passengers. “Thanks to McAllen International Airport’s expanding air service, reaching 1.2 million flyers marks one of the many achievements for McAllen in 2024,” said City of McAllen Mayor Javier Villalobos, “Non-stop service to key domestic and…