Author Archives: VBR

The City of Pharr Police Department, in partnership with the Texas Department of Transportation, is conducting Operation Slow Down from July 14 through July 30. The primary objective of this initiative is to enhance the enforcement of traffic safety-related laws, ultimately reducing the number of fatal and serious injury crashes. Operation Slow Down will involve increased enforcement efforts and public education campaigns to promote safer roadways. These efforts will emphasize…

Texas State Parks Among the Nation’s Best

July 13, 2023

VBR

e-Brief Features News Recreation & Tourism Comments

Texas State Parks is competing against three other state park systems to receive 2023 National Gold Medal Award for Excellence in Park and Recreation Management. Presenters for the award are the National Recreation and Park Association along with the American Academy for Park and Recreation Administration. “I’m proud to have the hard work of our Texas State Park staff recognized for building one of the best state park systems in…

City of McAllen Offers Cooling Centers

July 13, 2023

VBR

Community e-Brief Features News Comments

As temperatures and heat indexes continue to soar, the City of McAllen would like to remind the public that many city facilities are open and available to the community as cooling centers. McAllen Community Centers are open for patrons to come in and cool off. Seats are available in the lobby as well as access wi-fi and areas to recharge phones. In north McAllen, the Lark Community Center at 2601…

Edinburg Hosts 10th Annual FridaFest

July 13, 2023

VBR

Community Events e-Brief Features Featured News Comments

The City of Edinburg invites the community to its 10th annual FridaFest on July 15 at Edinburg City Hall, 415 W. University Drive. Some indoor pre-festival events begin at 5 p.m. with the outdoor community festival hours being 7-11 p.m. A Women’s Empowerment Panel kicks off the evening at 5 p.m. at Edinburg Municipal Auditorium (behind city hall). This empowerment panel showcases local women who have excelled in their careers…

UTRGV Appoints New AVP For Research Enhancement

July 12, 2023

VBR

Education Featured News Comments

Abby Guillory is the new assistant vice president for Research Enhancement for the UTRGV Division of Research. She assumes her new position at UTRGV on Aug. 7. Guillory holds a Master of Library and Information Science from Louisiana State University and a Bachelor of Arts in Public Relations from UL Lafayette. She is also currently is pursuing a Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership from UL Lafayette. Formerly the director…

Pharr Names Flores Assistant City Manager

July 11, 2023

VBR

Featured Government News Comments

The City of Pharr has named Jonathan B. Flores Ed.D. as its new assistant city manager. A native of Pharr, Flores has more than 22 years of diverse law enforcement experience. Since 2005, he has worked in various roles and assignments, including patrol, criminal investigations and major crimes. He also served as assistant city manager/chief of police for the City of Alton. “I am truly humbled and excited for the…

Lifesaving Tips Keep Pets Safe During Heat Wave

July 10, 2023

VBR

Community Featured News Comments

American Humane, the country’s first national humane organization, is sharing lifesaving tips to help Texans keep their animal companions safe as the scorching heat wave continues in the Lone Star State. “The record-breaking temperatures across Texas right now are particularly dangerous for pets,” said Thomas Edling, chief veterinary officer of American Humane. “Failing to beat the heat and keep your pets cool can lead to discomfort and even death. Remember:…

STC Chairwoman Honored Twice With “Who’s Who in America”

July 8, 2023

VBR

Education Featured News Comments

South Texas College Bachelor of Science in Organizational Leadership Program Chairwoman Emma Miller, Ph.D. now stands beside the likes of some of the most recognizable names in the world. Miller joined the millions of successful professionals, who for the last 128 years have been featured in Marquis “Who’s Who in America,” one of the country’s oldest publications for biographical data alongside famous names like Oprah Winfrey, Stevie Wonder, Warren Buffet,…

Tips to Stay Safe During the Summer Heat

July 6, 2023

VBR

e-Brief Features News Recreation & Tourism Comments

With the soaring summer temperatures Texas State Parks is sharing seven tips to help Texans enjoy time outdoors safely. Last year, 47 state parks reported 141 heat-related illnesses in humans and pets. Since Jan. 1, 77 heat-related incidents have already been reported, compared to 64 reported by this time last year. Here are the top seven heat hacks recommended for park visitors: Hydrate – It’s important to drink at least…

MXLAN Festival Takes Place July 28-30

July 6, 2023

VBR

e-Brief Features Events News Comments

The three-day MXLAN Festival 2023 returns this month from July 28-30, celebrating Latino influence on popular culture. Hosted by the City of McAllen and city partners, the art and music festival is expected to draw more than 65,000 attendees with 18 unique experiences. New experiences this year include a Gala to kick off the festivities on July 27 with proceeds benefiting the newly formed McAllen Performing & Cultural Arts Foundation,…