Author Archives: VBR

The City of Pharr has launched its Public Safety Sticker Program, a new initiative designed to enhance interactions between first responders and citizens with special needs such as autism, Alzheimer’s, diabetes or deafness. This program is part of the city’s commitment to ensuring a high level of customer service and safety for all residents. The Public Safety Sticker Program provides reflective stickers that can be placed on the rear window…

McAllen Chamber Seeks Man & Woman of the Year

July 25, 2024

VBR

Community e-Brief Features News Comments

The McAllen Chamber of Commerce is now accepting nominations for the 69th annual Man & Woman of the Year Awards. Since 1955, the McAllen Chamber of Commerce has been honoring remarkable individuals who have made a substantial contribution to the City of McAllen through their exceptional service and volunteerism. Winners will be recognized during the Man & Woman of the Year Awards that will take place on Nov. 7 at…

Texas’ Civilian Labor Force Exceeds 15.3 Million

July 25, 2024

VBR

e-Brief Features News Comments

After adding 49,100 people over the month, Texas’ seasonally adjusted civilian labor force achieved a new high of 15,311,500 in June. The seasonally adjusted unemployment rate registered at four percent, which is 0.1 percentage point below the national unemployment rate. The state’s seasonally adjusted total nonfarm employment, which is estimated independently of the civilian labor force statistics and refers to the number of filled jobs within Texas, showed a decrease…

Arbor Day Celebration Registration Now Open

July 18, 2024

VBR

Community Events e-Brief Features News Comments

Registration is now open to bikers, walkers and runners for Keep McAllen Beautiful’s 13th annual Arbor Day Celebration taking place Nov. 2 at Westside Park. The run, bike, and walk event benefits everyone and helps KMB, a 501(c)3 non-profit organization, increase awareness of the importance of planting and caring for trees in McAllen. The day will begin with a 25 mile/100K bike ride, 5K run, 10K run, a kids’ fun…

DHR Health to Host Free Sports Medicine Seminar

July 18, 2024

VBR

e-Brief Features Featured Healthcare News Comments

DHR Health, together with the Valley Athletic Trainers Association, hosts the second annual Texas Emergency Sports Medicine Seminar July 26-27 for individuals who work with student athletes of all ages. Taking place at the Edinburg Conference Center at Renaissance, 118 Paseo Del Prado, the event provides information and training on the latest guidelines and advancements in the sports medicine field. Several DHR Health physicians and special guest speakers from out…

STC Continues to Host Free Summer Camps

July 18, 2024

VBR

Community e-Brief Features Education News Comments

IDEA Donna senior Christian Salinas was ecstatic to learn about the convenience of the Biology Technology camp taking place at the South Texas College Pecan campus, thanks to a $65,000 merit grant aimed at launching various no-cost summer camps for young students interested in the fields of science, technology, engineering and mathematics. “This summer, I looked into various summer camps, but I saw that the Biology Technology summer camp at…

DHR Health Clinics Host Free Hiring Event

July 11, 2024

VBR

e-Brief Features Events Healthcare News Comments

DHR Health Clinics are encouraging job seekers to attend their hiring event on July 15, which can open the door to the healthcare field. The event takes place from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the Edinburg Conference Center at Renaissance at 118 Paseo Del Prado. The event is free and open to the public. “There is a position for everyone at all levels of experience,” said Veronica Villarreal, DHR…

BCIC Accepting Applications For StartUp Texas

July 11, 2024

VBR

Community e-Brief Features Featured News Comments

The Brownsville Community Improvement Corporation is accepting applications for a new cohort for the StartUp Texas Emerging Industries Accelerator Program. The 12-week intensive program will start in August and is designed to equip innovative startups throughout the Rio Grande Valley with the necessary tools for growth. The program focuses on fostering forward-thinking solutions in various sectors such as technology, manufacturing, healthcare, aerospace and green energy. Since its inception in 2019,…

McAllen Passports Division Hosts Saturday Hours

July 11, 2024

VBR

e-Brief Features Events News Transportation & Travel Comments

The City of McAllen Passports Division will be open for extended hours on July 13 and July 27 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. both days. The department is located at the City of McAllen Downtown Parking Garage, 221 South 15th Street. Note that each applicant must be present and must provide a valid form of identification with an identifiable photo and signature, proof of citizenship such as a certified…

McAllen Police to Host Citizens’ Police Academy

July 4, 2024

VBR

Community e-Brief Features Government News Comments

The McAllen Police Department is now accepting applications for its 18th Citizens’ Police Academy. Starting Aug. 15 and running through Oct. 16, the 10-week academy will meet every Thursday evening from 6-9 p.m. There is no cost to apply and selected applicants must be 21 years of age or older; able to attend all classes; work or reside in McAllen; and turn in a completed application by July 26. “The…