Images McAllen, TX: 2009

TexasMcAllen2009 | imagesmcallen.com | video vigneTTes

Hi, steaks

THe arTbeaT of americaChevrolet dealer paints more than cars and trucks

’Til You dropCity’s status grows as international shopping hub

Local restaurants serve up state’s signature dish in style

sponsored bY THe mcallen cHamber of commerce

TM

This magazine is printed entirely or in part on recycled paper containing 10% post-consumer waste.

PLEASE RECYCLE THIS MAGAZINEON THE COVER Staff PhotoGuitar by artist Kim Snyder Johnson

DEPARTMENTS

8 Almanac: a colorful sampling of McAllen culture

33 Portfolio: people, places and events that defi ne McAllen

39 Education

41 Sports & Recreation

45 Health & Wellness

47 Community Profi le: facts, stats and important numbers to know

McALLEN BUSINESS 26 ’Til You Drop

Retailers large and small bolster the city’s status as a shopping destination.

28 Biz Briefs

31 Chamber Report

32 Economic Profi le

CONTENTS

FEATURES

12 HI, STEAKSLocal restaurants ensure that diners can always fi nd the Lone Star State’s signature dish served up in style.

16 MAKE YOURSELF A HOMELocal shops purvey an array of fi ne furniture and expert design services.

20 LET US ENTERTAIN YOUThe local arts scene is growing, with new businesses and events adding to an already rich list of cultural offerings.

24 SKY’S THE LIMIT FOR FOSSUM FALCONS New middle school’s namesake challenges students to expand their horizons.

43 THE ARTBEAT OF AMERICAChevrolet dealer Kirk Clark is realizing his artistic leanings through a painting career.

33

TEXAS

2009 EDITION | VOLUME 7

McALLEN

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TEXASMcALLEN

RELOCATIONConsidering a move to this community? We can help. Use our Relocation Tools to discover tips, including how to make your move green, advice about moving pets and help with booking movers.

Anyone who’s been to Texas knows the state’s specialty is steak, and McAllen eateries have perfected it. Get a taste of local fl avor in our food section.

We’ve added even more prize-winning photography to our online gallery. To see these spectacular photos, click on Photo Gallery.

Take a peek around the grounds of the historic hacienda, Quinta Mazatlan, which is the McAllen wing of the World Birding Center. Watch this and other quick videos in the Interactive section.

QUINTA MAZATLAN

McAllen magazine gives readers a taste of what makes McAllen tick – from business and education to sports, health care and the arts.

SENIOR EDITOR LISA BATTLES

COPY EDITOR JOYCE CARUTHERS

ASSOCIATE EDITOR JESSY YANCEY

ONLINE CONTENT MANAGER MATT BIGELOW

STAFF WRITERS CAROL COWAN, KEVIN LITWIN

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS MELANIE HILL, DAN MARKHAM, JOE MORRIS, JESSICA MOZO

DATA MANAGER RANETTA SMITH

REGIONAL SALES MANAGER CHARLES FITZGIBBON

INTEGRATED MEDIA MANAGER DAVID MOSKOVITZ

SALES SUPPORT MANAGER SARA SARTIN

SENIOR PHOTOGRAPHER BRIAN MCCORD

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHERS JEFF ADKINS, TODD BENNETT, ANTONY BOSHIER,

IAN CURCIO, J. KYLE KEENER

PHOTOGRAPHY ASSISTANT ANNE WHITLOW

CREATIVE DIRECTOR KEITH HARRIS

WEB DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR BRIAN SMITH

PRODUCTION DIRECTOR NATASHA LORENS

ASST. PRODUCTION DIRECTOR CHRISTINA CARDEN

PRE-PRESS COORDINATOR HAZEL RISNER

PRODUCTION PROJECT MANAGERS

MELISSA BRACEWELL, KATIE MIDDENDORF, JILL WYATT

SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNERS LAURA GALLAGHER, KRIS SEXTON, CANDICE SWEET, VIKKI WILLIAMS

LEAD DESIGNER TADARA SMITH

GRAPHIC DESIGN ERICA HINES, ALISON HUNTER, JESSICA MANNER, JANINE MARYLAND,

AMY NELSON, MARCUS SNYDER

WEB PROJECT MANAGERS ANDY HARTLEY, YAMEL RUIZ

WEB DESIGN LEAD FRANCO SCARAMUZZA

WEB DESIGN RYAN DUNLAP, CARL SCHULZ

WEB PRODUCTION JENNIFER GRAVES

COLOR IMAGING TECHNICIAN TWILA ALLEN

AD TRAFFIC MARCIA MILLAR, SARAH MILLER,PATRICIA MOISAN, RAVEN PETTY

CHAIRMAN GREG THURMAN

PRESIDENT/PUBLISHER BOB SCHWARTZMAN

EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT RAY LANGEN

SR. V.P./CLIENT DEVELOPMENT JEFF HEEFNER

SR. V.P./SALES CARLA H. THURMAN

SR. V.P./OPERATIONS CASEY E. HESTER

V.P./SALES HERB HARPER

V.P./SALES TODD POTTER

V.P./VISUAL CONTENT MARK FORESTER

V.P./TRAVEL PUBLISHING SYBIL STEWART

V.P./EDITORIAL DIRECTOR TEREE CARUTHERS

MANAGING EDITORS/BUSINESS

MAURICE FLIESS, BILL McMEEKIN

MANAGING EDITOR/COMMUNITY KIM MADLOM

MANAGING EDITOR/CUSTOM KIM NEWSOM

MANAGING EDITOR/TRAVEL SUSAN CHAPPELL

PHOTOGRAPHY DIRECTOR JEFFREY S. OTTO

CONTROLLER CHRIS DUDLEY

ACCOUNTING MORIAH DOMBY, RICHIE FITZPATRICK, DIANA GUZMAN, MARIA McFARLAND, LISA OWENS

RECRUITING/TRAINING DIRECTOR SUZY WALDRIP

COMMUNITY PROMOTION DIRECTOR CINDY COMPERRY

DISTRIBUTION DIRECTOR GARY SMITH

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY DIRECTOR YANCEY TURTURICE

NETWORK ADMINISTRATOR JAMES SCOLLARD

IT SERVICE TECHNICIAN RYAN SWEENEY

HUMAN RESOURCES MANAGER PEGGY BLAKE

CUSTOM/TRAVEL SALES SUPPORT RACHAEL GOLDSBERRY

SALES/MARKETING COORDINATOR RACHEL MATHEIS

EXECUTIVE SECRETARY/SALES SUPPORT KRISTY DUNCAN

OFFICE MANAGER SHELLY GRISSOM

RECEPTIONIST LINDA BISHOP

McAllen magazine is published annually by Journal Communications Inc. and is distributed

through the McAllen Chamber of Commerce and its member businesses.

For advertising information or to direct questionsor comments about the magazine, contact

Journal Communications Inc. at (615) 771-0080or by e-mail at [email protected].

FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT:McAllen Chamber of Commerce

1200 Ash Ave. • McAllen, TX 78501Phone: (956) 682-2871 • Fax: (956) 687-2917

www.mcallenchamber.com

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Imagine ThatAttention, starving artists.

The McA2 Creative Incubator was formed in 2005 by the McAllen

Chamber of Commerce to rent studios at nominal rates to artists.

Resident artists specialize in all types of media, such as photography,

painting, sculpture, writing, graphic design, film and fashion design.

McA2 is at the corner of Jackson Avenue and 16th Street, in a city-

owned building that formerly housed South Texas Community College

(now known as South Texas College). The building contains space for

12 art studios, exhibition space and a stage for performances.

In the Smithsonian Family

The International Museum

of Art & Science just celebrated

its 40th year of bringing art,

science and fun to the Rio

Grande Valley.

IMAS, which is an affiliate

of the Smithsonian Institution,

has five galleries with fine art‚

folk art and decorative art.

There is a children’s Discovery

Pavilion that offers hands-on

learning, and an outdoor

RioScape exhibit simulates a

journey along the Rio Grande

from the mountains to McAllen.

The museum also has stained

glass displays along with a

sculpture garden.

Palms UpMcAllen is known as the City of Palms, so it makes perfect

sense that it hosts a PalmFest every year.Each October, nearly 30,000 people pack the McAllen

Convention Center to celebrate the interesting cultures and vibrant history of Deep South Texas. The PalmFest International Folklife Celebration features a weekend of music, ethnic foods, authentic cultural entertainment and children’s activities.

The McAllen Chamber of Commerce, the City of McAllen, the McAllen Heritage Center, the Fajita Cookoff and the McAllen South Rotary all host PalmFest.

8 IMAGESMCALLEN.COM McALLEN

Fast Facts Symphonic sounds

abound at concerts of the Valley Symphony Orchestra, which performs several times annually at various venues in McAllen.

Entrepreneurial spirit prevails here, so much so that the McAllen Chamber and city developed the McAllen Innovation Grant Program in 2007. The program annually awards small grants to individuals or small businesses with creative ideas.

The historic Renaissance Casa de Palmas hotel, which celebrated its 90th birthday in 2008, counts Anthony Quinn, Marlon Brando and President Lyndon Johnson among its previous guests.

People come from all over the world to compete in the Valley Land Fund South Texas Shootout photo contest, held since 1994.

McAllen is known as The City of Palms, due to the more than 40 varieties that thrive here.

Visit the Los Ebanos Ferry just 14 miles west of McAllen. It is the last hand-operated ferry on the U.S.-Mexico border.

Firmly Rooted in HistoryWant to research your roots?

Head to the new McAllen

Heritage Center, which opened in

June 2008 on South Main Street

in downtown McAllen. It features

works of art, documents, pictures,

records and books that can help

visitors understand the development

of the area’s culture.

Many projects are being

planned, including a Traveling

Trunks exhibit for local school-

teachers to assist them in teaching

about McAllen history. The center

also hopes to introduce an art

program for children that will

take place in the museum.

Hours are 1-5 p.m. Monday

through Friday.

Go, Rio Grande Valley, GoSports fans, rejoice. There are plenty of sports teams to cheer for in McAllen and the

surrounding region. Just a couple of reasons to rally include the Rio Grande Valley Killer

Bees of the Central Hockey League and the Rio Grande Valley Dorados – an Arena

Football League af2 team.

For hoops fans, the Rio Grande Valley Vipers of the National Basketball Association

D-League play in McAllen.

Also, fans in the Valley can enjoy all of the excitement provided by United League

Baseball action at Edinburg Coyotes games.

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Almanac

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MatamorosRio Bravo

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UNITED STATES

McAllen | At A GlancePOPULATION (2007 ESTIMATE)McAllen: 127,245

Greater McAllen area: 700,634

LOCATIONMcAllen is in the Rio Grande Valley

of South Texas, 70 miles west of the

Gulf of Mexico.

BEGINNINGSThe city of McAllen was unofficially

founded in 1904 when rancher

John McAllen donated land to

establish a new railroad stop.

McAllen was incorporated in 1911.

FOR MORE INFORMATIONMcAllen Chamber

of Commerce

1200 Ash Ave.

McAllen, TX 78501

Phone: (956) 682-2871

Fax: (956) 687-2917

www.mcallenchamber.com

WATCH MORE ONLINE | Take a virtual tour of McAllen at imagesmcallen.com, courtesy of our award-winning photographers.

McAllen

’Tis the Season’s BeginningThe traditional start to the holiday season

in McAllen attracts almost 40,000 people.Candlelight Posada takes place each December in

Archer Park and features a large parade with more than 75 entries. On the second day, the Posada includes a procession that re-enacts Joseph and Mary’s search for lodging.

More than 30 food booths are on site along with a Teen Town and Little Town, which are attractions with games and activities for teens and small children. The McAllen Chamber of Commerce and the City of McAllen Parks and Recreation Department coordinate Candlelight Posada.

Fiesta at the Finish Line

The annual Fiesta Marathon has been making

big strides since it was first introduced in 2006.

The run, which takes place in December, is

now a qualifying race for the prestigious Boston

Marathon. In addition, it is the only full marathon

held in the Rio Grande Valley.

Besides the main event, there is also a relay

marathon for five-person teams, a half marathon,

5K run/walk and a one-mile kids’ race.

The Fiesta Marathon has also partnered with

the Dias Festivos Marketplace, which occurs at

the McAllen Convention Center on that same

December weekend. Dias Festivos Marketplace,

sponsored by the Junior League of McAllen Inc.,

features gourmet foods, apparel, fashion

accessories, home furnishings, original art

and unusual holiday gifts.

a at the Line


Almanac

Santa Fe Steakhouse serves its bone-in rib eye with a shallot demi glaze and

Yukon Gold mashed potatoes.


Anybody who’s been to Texas knows the state’s culinary specialty is steak, and that’s certainly what’s cooking in McAllen.

A handful of locally owned eateries in McAllen more than meet the need for the hearty Lone Star State staple, including Pepper’s at Uptown, Republic of the Rio Grande and Santa Fe Steakhouse & Cantina, all located along 10th Street.

Most McAllen residents are familiar with Pepper’s at Uptown, but not everybody knows the longstanding bar and live music venue has been transformed into a trendy steak-house that focuses on high-quality steaks and seafood.

“Pepper’s had been open as a bar and music joint for 20 years, but in October 2007, it was shut down, gutted and completely remodeled,” says Brenton Childs, executive chef at Pepper’s at Uptown. “We reopened it in May 2008 and put a lot more focus and attention into the food.”

Pepper’s at Uptown’s menu includes several cuts of steak, including the rib eye, beef tenderloin and New York strip, as well as bone-in rib eyes, tenderloins and strips.

“We offer bone-in steaks because they stay more tender,” Childs says. “The bone sort of slows the cooking process, so when they’re done, they’re perfect and delicious.”

The steaks also benefit from being cooked in an infrared broiler that heats up to 1,100 sizzling degrees.

“Our infrared system cooks both sides of the steak at once, so they get a nice crust on both sides, and all the f lavorful

ENJOY THE LONE STAR STATE’S SIGNATURE DISH SERVED UP IN STYLE

STORY BY JESSICA MOZOPHOTOGRAPHY BY JESSE KNISH

Pepper’s at Uptown recently remodeled its space and revamped its offerings with a greater focus on food.

Hi,STEAKS


Above: Patrons of Santa Fe Steakhouse enjoy an extensive wine selection, delicious steaks and a cozy, rustic atmosphere. Below: Republic of the Rio Grande restaurant is known for its inviting atmosphere and mouth-watering steaks, as well as a variety of other signature dishes such as its brick oven pizza, presented here by Javier Flores.

PEPPER’S AT UPTOWN4620 N. 10th St.McAllen, TX(956) 618-5533

www.peppersuptown.com

REPUBLIC OF THE RIO GRANDE 1411 S. 10th St.McAllen, TX(956) 994-8385

SANTA FE STEAKHOUSE & CANTINA 1918 S. 10th St.McAllen, TX(956) 630-2331

www.steaksatsantafe.com

Destination: Dining


juices are kept inside the steak,” Childs says.The atmosphere at Pepper’s at Uptown is cozy and casual,

with comfy booths, 10 televisions and a large backlit bar.“You can come in dressed in a tuxedo on your anniversary,

or you can drive in from the beach in your flip-flops,” Childs says. “We’re a classic steakhouse with a family-friendly, comfortable atmosphere.”

Another McAllen establishment that satisfies carnivorous cravings is The Republic of the Rio Grande. With thick white mission walls, stone colonnades, dark wooden arches and a flame-lit patio, the restaurant’s inviting Southwestern ambience is as impressive as its food.

“We specialize in steaks and seafood, and our gourmet pizzas are also very popular,” says Sony Rego, owner of Republic of the Rio Grande. “We serve certified Angus beef rib eyes, f lat irons and filets, and we hand cut all of our steaks. Nothing is frozen, so our steaks are very juicy.”

A native of Guadalajara, Mexico, Rego says her idea for the restaurant was to blend Mexican and American food.

“I love McAllen for its mixture of Spanish and English speaking people,” she says. “It’s a very comfortable city that’s growing.”

For a mouthwatering steak with a night of live music and

dancing on the side, Santa Fe Steakhouse & Cantina is the place to go.

“We have a lively cantina with live entertainment every night, so you can start the night off with drinks in the cantina, have dinner in our restaurant, and finish off the night back in the cantina,” says Fred Harms, co-owner of Santa Fe Steakhouse & Cantina. “You can wine, dine and dance the night away.”

Santa Fe’s menu features aged, USDA prime cuts of beef, including a petit filet, filet, New York strip, rib eye and T-bone.

“We offer steaks two ways – charbroiled or cooked in our oven that’s especially made for steaks,” Harms says. “We also do quite a bit of seafood flown in daily from Hawaii. Our house specialty is orange roughy with artichoke hearts, sun-dried tomatoes, piñon nuts and pesto butter, and we bake it in clay and break it open at your table.”

Santa Fe’s wine list offers more than 700 selections and has been a Wine Spectator Grand Award Winner every year since 2001.

“We have people get engaged here all the time, and we’re the businessman’s favorite during the week,” Harms says. “It’s a special kind of place.”

The Cowboy, a 20-ounce, bone-in rib eye with a parmesan baked tomato, is a popular dish at Pepper’s at Uptown.


F rom opulent Spanish-inspired villas to modern loft apart-ments, homes in the Rio Grande Valley are as diverse as the

residents themselves. Fortunately, the city boasts an equally eclectic array of locally owned furniture shops and design-service enterprises that are well versed in the classic, the trendy and every style in between.

Located at 1200 N. 10th St., Stilo Design is a relative newcomer to McAllen’s home furnishings scene. The storefront may be new, but CEO Ismael Garcia and owner Lourdes Cabeza de Vaca have decorated the best homes in Monterrey, Reynosa, McAllen and South Padre Island for more than 20 years. In June 2008, the mother-son team set out on their first retail venture and opened Stilo Design, offering customers more than 12 lines of furniture, accessories, art and rugs ranging from contemporary to classic.

“Basically, we give the client what he is looking for,” Garcia says. “The differ-ence is that we have everything customers

LOCAL SHOPS PURVEY A FINE ARRAY OF FURNITURE AND DESIGN SERVICES

STORY BY MELANIE HILLPHOTOGRAPHY BY JESSE KNISH

Stilo Design opened in 2008 and offers more than a dozen lines of home furnishings that range in style from contemporary to classic.

Make

aHomeYourself


need, regardless of their style.” Stilo Design also offers free in-home

consultations to help customers find the best pieces to showcase their style.

Family-owned Tierra Dulce opened in 2001 and has taken its place among the city’s most distinguished furniture and design retailers. Literally translated “sweet earth,” Tierra Dulce sells hand-made furniture and accessories as well as custom-built furniture that incor-porates wood recycled from antique doors.

CEO Jesse DeLeon says the store’s rustic style can be taken to various levels to suit individual taste.

“We can soften items with colors, textiles and paint, and blend antique

items with the newer,” he says. While many items are imported from

nearby Mexico, DeLeon also carries pieces from India, Turkey, Greece and Italy. Tierra Dulce provides customers with in-home consultations and in-store merchandise at its 410 Ash Ave. location and also operates an online business, www.mexicanimports.com.

A McAllen mainstay, Stroud’s Home Furnishings has been a leader in the region’s furniture and design scene since 1948. President and CEO Gus Mikael attributes the company’s longevity to a commitment to quality and to providing timeless furniture and design solutions tailored to meet the needs of customers in the Rio Grande Valley.

“Stroud’s customers will find some-thing out of the ordinary,” Mikael says. “The store is more design oriented, with a lot of thought given to the selection of materials, textures, fabrics, colors and accessories. It’s a combination of everything.”

Stroud’s, which is located at 320 S. 20th St., has long been known for carrying the best in traditional and grand pieces. However, it has grown to include contemporary, streamlined styles from The Loft at Stroud’s, as well as even more creative pieces through the store’s private label, Gus Mikael.

“What sets us apart is that we’re not just there to sell, but to make sure a house is a home,” Mikael says.

For more than half a century, Stroud’s Home Furnishings has built a reputation for providing high-quality home furnishings and accessories, as well as design services that are tailored to meet customers’ individual needs.


Diana and Jesse DeLeon are the owners of Tierra Dulce, an eclectic home interiors shop filled with treasures imported from Mexico, India, Turkey, Greece and Italy, as well as many custom-built items created from antique wood.

Gus Mikael is president and CEO of Stroud’s Home Furnishings, which has been a leader in the region’s design scene since 1948. Above: Eclectic and colorful accent pieces fill the walls at Tierra Dulce on Ash Avenue.

WATCH MORE ONLINE | Enjoy a tour of Tierra Dulce at imagesmcallen.com.


NEW BUSINESSES AND EVENTS INJECT ARTS SCENE WITH ENERGY

Let Us

YouEntertain


C ould it happen? Could 17th Street in downtown McAllen become as popular as the famed 6th Street entertain-

ment district in Austin?McAllen officials hope it can, and

think it will.At least 20 new musical entertainment,

restaurant and upscale bar venues were scheduled to arrive on 17th Street in 2008 and 2009, and overall property values continue to increase steadily in that particular downtown McAllen district.

“It’s true that 17th Street is receiving a lot of attention these days, but there is actually a sprawling 10-street core area

in downtown McAllen that has improved and revitalized thanks to recent private and public investment,” says Alida Hernandez, chairperson with Heart of the City of McAllen Improvement Cooperation Inc., which was founded by the city in 2004.

Hernandez says property owners have been constructing nicer facades on their buildings in the district, and more than 30 properties have been sold and reopened in recent years.

“Those new property owners are changing the mix of downtown McAllen,” Hernandez says. “They are bringing a real vitality to this part of the city.”

Overall, the entire arts scene through-out McAllen is rich with talent and diversity and continues to grow. One new event that will debut here in April 2009 is a two-day concert celebration called Another Music Festival.

“This musical fest will feature several downtown business owners opening their doors to host a variety of live bands from around the country,” says Annabell Cortina, director of special events and media for the McAllen Chamber of Commerce.

Meanwhile, Cortina says another exciting attraction that already is a success is the chamber’s annual McAllen

STORY BY KEVIN LITWIN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JESSE KNISH

The band Single Fin was among several artists performing in the 2008 Music Afterhours Concert Series, just one of many cultural activities filling residents’ calendars these days. Left: Downtown’s Cine El Rey is an entertainment hub.


Art & Film Festival.“We always invite more than 120 top

artists to showcase their fine art, and also featured at the festival are local designers who present a fashion show on this early October weekend,” she says.

“Finally, one other aspect we offer to accompany the other events that weekend is a film festival presented at the famed and historic Cine El Rey Theatre in downtown McAllen.”

One of the longest enduring arts-related attractions in the city each year is simply called ArtWalk. It is held on

the first Friday evening of every month from September through May, and functions as an artistic open house for galleries in the Main Street area.

“ArtWalk started four years ago with 200 people visiting businesses that

displayed artwork from local artists,” says Becky Guerra, founder of ArtWalk and co-owner of Nuevo Santander Gallery with her husband, Che. “By May 2008, there were 4,000 people participating in the event.”

Guerra says she is especially pleased that ArtWalk has turned into a family-

friendly experience, with many children in attendance.

“To accompany ArtWalk, the Chamber has also begun a Music Afterhours live concert series at Archer Park on those first Fridays of the month,” Guerra says. “In addition, the city has installed more lights along Main Street to make ArtWalk that much nicer and more comfortable for participants.”

Other interesting arts news in McAllen these days includes the Chamber’s incu bator program that allows 12 artists to rent studio space at a very reasonable rent. In addition, the McAllen City Commission enacted a grant program in 2008 to assist public art, specifically by eventually commis-sioning artists to create large statues and sculptures to be placed at public venues around the city.

“The arts scene is vibrant in McAllen these days,” Guerra says. “So many people are supporting it right now, which is very exciting for talented artists and those who appreciate them.”

A guitar by artist Kim Snyder Johnson is displayed in her studio at the McA2 Creative Incubator, a program of the McAllen Chamber of Commerce that provides reasonably priced studio space to a dozen different artists.

“Those new property owners are

changing the mix of downtown

McAllen. They are bringing a real

vitality to this part of the city.”

STA

FF

PH

OT

O


Recent improvements and new businesses are making South 17th Street an entertainment destination.


W hen teachers at the newly opened Michael E. Fossum Middle School tell students

that the sky’s the limit, they’ve got handy points of reference painted right on the gym wall.

The mural features a space shuttle in f light, highlighting the career of NASA astronaut and 1976 McAllen High School alumnus Mike Fossum, for whom the school is named, as well as a falcon, the

school’s mascot. The facility was built as part of a $97 million school bond issue passed in 2005. It opened for the 2008-09 school year.

“It’s an absolutely beautiful facility, and we’re having a wonderful time getting started here,” says Joanetta Ellis, principal. “We’ve had wonderful support from the community throughout the entire process.”

For Fossum, who has flown into orbit on the space shuttle twice – most

recently in June 2008 aboard Discovery, having a school bear his name is a whole new experience.

“It’s a little daunting, actually,” Fossum says. “I’m catching a lot of grief from some old buddies I was in middle school with, because they remember all the hijinks we got up to back then.”

Despite any hijinks that Fossum’s friends may remember, naming the school for Fossum was a natural, says Norma Zamora-Guerra, community

STORY BY JOE MORRIS

NEW SCHOOL’S NAMESAKE CHALLENGES STUDENTS TO EXPAND HORIZONS

for Fossum FalconsSKY’Sthe Limit


infor mation director for the McAllen Independent School District.

“We’re very proud of the connection to our distinguished alumni, and we want our students to recognize the kind of education that we provide here,” Zamora-Guerra says. “What Mr. Fossum learned here helped catapult him into space, and we’re very proud of that.”

The school has a strong focus on science, no big surprise given its name-sake, with science and computer labs that enhance standard classroom learning.

“We’ve put a lot of our money into technology, and the three labs with Macintosh computers are wowing every-one,” Ellis says. “We’re also a candidate school this year for the International Baccalaureate program, and one thing they stress is that everything be of equal value, so we’re tying our labs into our classrooms and using our technology across the entire school.”

When Fossum visits the school, he’ll no doubt keep students enthralled. He’s had six space walks between his two shuttle flights, with the last three as part of the installation of the Japanese-built Kibo lab at the International Space Station.

“The work is strange and frustrating, because you can’t line things up on your desk and reach over for a cup of coffee or

Astronaut Michael E. Fossum, STS-121 mission specialist, is a 1976 McAllen High School alumnus. Left: A falcon ultimately became the mascot for the new Michael E. Fossum Middle School. PHOTO BY JESSE KNISH

Moon-Dirt Business Has NASA AbuzzMcALLEN NATIVE CARTER CREATES

MATERIAL USED IN SPACE RESEARCH

When it comes to off-site uses, ETSimulants may

have a lock on the market.

The company is the brainchild of Dr. James Carter,

who was born and raised on a farm in McAllen and

now is a retired geoscientist from the University of

Texas. The ‘ET’ stands for ‘extraterrestrial,’ and the

company has but one product: fake moon dirt.

So, how did he make the leap from Texas to

non-terra firma?

“It’s a long story,” Carter says. “I was involved

in analyzing the samples returned from the Apollo

missions, and by 1989, NASA was telling us in a

workshop that they needed a simulant of moon

dirt, something that would use all those materials to

simulate what you might find on the moon. In 1993,

they contacted me and asked if I would make it; I

said I would give it a try.”

Twenty tons of simulated moon dirt and 1,000

happy researchers later, Carter was in business.

But all good things must come to an end, and

by 2004 the space agency was fresh out of dirt.

“They would use 10 tons for space suit research,

and so I wound up designing and building my own

mill, and am pretty sure I’m the only person in the

world who has a mill dedicated to making moon

dirt,” Carter says. “And I’m making 32 tons this

time around, so it’ll last longer.”

At this point Carter hasn’t patented his process,

noting that creating his composition isn’t like “buying

a pound of coffee, putting it in the grinder and out

comes the finished product. But later on, when

they run out again and need more, I’ll look at

the possibility again.”

For now, Carter contents himself with looking at a

second type of dirt on the moon, that of its highlands,

which will be more difficult to replicate.

And if a Mars explorer brings back some red dust?

Only time will tell, because Carter’s not saying.

– Joe Morris

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a pencil,” he says. “Nothing stays put, which is what the Velcro and duct tape are for.”

Installing the 32,000-pound lab was a challenge, but with one mission under his belt, it was one Fossum said he was able to get his head and arms around.

“I was mentally prepared for the mission from all of the pre-launch preparation to launch day,” he says. “We rode the rocket to space and then got to work. I adapted immediately. It was like

as soon as we got up there, my brain said, ‘Yeah, we’re back.’ “

And for Ellis, who opened the Christa McAuliffe Elementary School in 1986, being able to once again honor an astronaut is an incredible feeling.

“It’s pretty cool to be the only principal of the two schools named after heroes in our midst,” she says. “And with Mike, it’s been a great experience. I think he’s going to be really pleased with what we’re doing here.”


E verything’s bigger in Texas, including McAllen’s retail sector. The city has quickly become the shopping hub of South Texas and northern Mexico, luring 40 of the nation’s top 100 retailers to this

lucrative developer’s paradise. Ten million consumers reside within a 200-mile radius, boosting McAllen’s per capita retail sales to nearly twice the state average. In 2007 alone, retail sales exceeded $3.58 billion.

While those figures provide plenty of incentive for major retailers to f lock to McAllen, small-business owners find themselves equally encouraged by the city’s status as an international shopping destination.

Delores Gonzalez is one such entrepreneur. In 2005, the Mission native opened the trendy Stay in Style boutique at 1101 W. Pecan Blvd. The store carries exclusive ladies’ lines including Maria de Guadalajara and more, along with cutting edge clothing and accessories from the nation’s most elite markets.

“Customers know the Valley is big on international fashion, and that’s why I decided to open my own store,” Gonzalez says. “I try to find unique things from different places, because women here want to be unique.”

The success experienced by Gonzalez and others is due in large part to Mexican Nationals willing to travel for the latest in high-end fashion. Today’s commute to South Texas is easier than ever thanks to the McAllen-Hidalgo-Reynosa International Bridge linking McAllen to Reynosa, Tamaulipas, Mexico, which boasts a population of nearly one million.

Retail tourism is expected to grow even more with the opening of the Anzalduas International Crossing, south of Mission. Scheduled for completion in mid-2009, the 2.7-mile bridge will provide a direct route from Mission to Monterrey, which is Mexico’s third largest city. The crossing will include two southbound lanes, two northbound lanes and a pedestrian crossing. Officials anticipate the new bridge could trim as many as 45 minutes off a trip to or from Monterrey.

“I know it will be great for business,” says Sylvia Johnson, owner of Sylvia’s and Uniques boutiques in McAllen.

The clothing and accessory boutiques at 4300 N. 10th St. offer exclusive lines for women of all ages. Sylvia’s boasts a large selection of styles from special occasion to dressy casual, extensive shoe and Brighton departments and much more. Next door, Uniques draws trendy shoppers with fashion denim from Seven and True Religion, and clothing from Juicy Couture and other high-end labels.

Johnson says style-savvy shoppers willing to drive from Monterrey often prefer the extra attention provided by boutiques and specialty stores. And since she carries more unique items than most large retailers, Johnson says their presence poses little threat to hers and other small businesses.

“When there are larger stores here it’s to our advantage, because it keeps consumers in the Rio Grande Valley,” Johnson says. “A lot of cities do well with large national retailers, but McAllen seems to be good for the small-business owner, as well.”

STORY BY MELANIE HILL | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JESSE KNISH

’Til YouYes,

DropBOUTIQUES BOLSTER CITY’S

STATUS AS AN INTERNATIONAL SHOPPING DESTINATION


Business

Left and above left: Stay in Style Boutique clients, such as Jocelyn Cardoza, pictured, are loyal to the boutique for its unusual accessories and apparel, as well as the personal service delivered by owner Dolores Gonzalez. Right and above right: Sylvia’s and Uniques boutiques, both owned by Sylvia Johnson, offer top-notch service and a wide selection of distinctive accessories, plus clothing from high-end labels such as Juicy Couture, Seven and True Religion.


Ricardo Portillo owns Portillo Jewelers, which specializes in diamonds and fine jewelry and has three Valley locations.

SETTING MAKES ALL THE DIFFERENCE FOR JEWELER

Ricardo Portillo has had McAllen in his sights for many years.

The operator of Portillo Jewelers opened his first store in Brownsville in 1984, and another in Harlingen in 1998. But he always had his eye on one of the region’s biggest retail prizes – space in McAllen’s La Plaza Mall.

“The McAllen area is the most robust market in the Valley,” Portillo says. “It was a long-term goal that eventually got realized.”

Though Portillo provides all types of jewelry, it specializes in bridal jewelry. But what sets it apart, the owner says, is the ability to cater its offerings to the specific needs of its customers.

“Other jewelry stores don’t have the flexibility to work within the constraints of a customer’s individual needs,” Portillo says.

And Portillo realizes the needs don’t end once the sale is made. So he offers

the Portillo Promise, an all-inclusive warranty that covers after-sale service on any item purchased at the store.

“Anyone who is our customer should get preferential treatment,” he says.

FIND THE FINEST AT FELDMAN’S

Rick Ramos says the Feldman’s Market Center is not just a new idea for McAllen, but also a novel concept for all of Texas.

“There’s nothing else like it here,” says Ramos of the 15,000-square foot store that brings fine foods, liquors and cigars into a single location.

The store is the first of its kind from Feldman’s Valley Wide, a chain of liquor stores in South Texas.

Feldman’s Market Center offers more than 4,500 bottles of wine, a large display of liquors and a humidor with more than 400 brands of cigars. An organic foods and deli section completes the offerings for the area’s most discerning taste buds.

Despite the emphasis on quality selec-tions, the store caters to every pocketbook.

“It’s more of a boutique store than anything else, but we’re not so preten-tious that we’re just for one level of society,” Ramos explains.

Feldman’s Market Center, located at 110 N. 10th St., is open from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday.

GET IN ON THE GRAPE LEVEL

John Nix is giving everyone in McAllen the opportunity to become a vintner.

In early fall 2008, Nix opened Water2Wine, a winery that allows cus-tomers to become part of the winemaking process. Patrons can choose and mix ingredients for a customized batch.

After 45 days of fermentation, cus-tomers return to bottle and cork the wine, plus add a personalized label they’ve created.

Water2Wine also offers hundreds of wines from around the world for

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Business | Biz Briefs

purchase. Each of its wines is available for tasting.

Nix says he discovered the concept when he met another Water2Wine fran-chise owner in San Antonio.

“It seemed like a good idea for the Valley,” Nix says.

The McAllen Chamber of Commerce agreed, awarding Nix a small business grant to help create the Web site to accompany the launch of his business.

Water2Wine, located at 5171 N. 10th St., Ste. 300, is open from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday.

CASA PETRIDES IS STILL SMOKING

Casa Petrides Tobaccos is among the last of its kind – a public place where smoking is not prohibited.

“You can always come in and enjoy your cigar here,” says Demetrio Petrides, the owner of the tobacco shop at 735 W. Dove Ave.

Casa Petrides is primarily a cigar shop, with more than 250 brands avail-able, including hard-to-find boutique cigars from around the world. A walk-in humidor preserves their f lavors.

The store also offers cigarettes and pipe tobacco, plus a variety of smoking accessories.

And at the bar in the rear of the store, customers can have a drink and enjoy their tobacco purchases without having to dart outdoors.

“It’s a nice, professional atmosphere,” says Petrides, whose family has been in the cigar business since 1905.

Casa Petrides is open from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday, but will remain open past 9 p.m. if customers are at the bar.

AS SEEN ON TV – MILLIONS OF THEM

LG Electronics is one of the America’s largest corporations, ranking 73rd on the 2007 Fortune 500 list with revenues in excess of $101 billion. And this massive company has chosen the McAllen area as the optimal site to manufacture and distribute its signature televisions.

The company’s primary North American manufacturing site is located in nearby Reynosa, Mexico, where 2.5 mil-

Casa Petrides Tobaccos is a popular spot for those who appreciate fine cigars and good company.

lion LCDs, plasma and conventional color televisions of all sizes are constructed. Across the border in Pharr, the company maintains a communications hub.

“This is a centralized location for distribution in all the Americas, from Canada to Latin America,” says Ron Owens, who oversees the local operation.

Those sets are sold through LG sales locations throughout the hemisphere, plus key warehouses and major retailers such as Best Buy and Circuit City.

The company may be readying for a banner year, as the nation gets ready to convert to complete digital broadcasting in February 2009. All LG televisions are equipped for the change.

– Dan Markham


Your Time Is Worth It. Get There Faster …

Fly McAllen!

www.mcallenairport.com (956) 681-1500

(800) 433-7300www.aa.com

(702) 505-8888www.allegiantair.com

(800) 525-0280www.continental.com

Say Hello to Good BuysCHAMBER LAUNCHES INTERNET COUPON AND VALUE CARD INITIATIVES

A ttention, area shoppers. If you have access to a com-puter, you can save money, thanks to a program introduced by the McAllen Chamber of Commerce.

In 2008, the Chamber began an Internet-based marketing tool called BuyMcAllen that allows Chamber members to post coupons online. By visiting the www.BuyMcAllen.com Web site, customers can be alerted about specials around town and use coupons if they are interested in purchases from those specials.

“Only Chamber members can post coupons on the BuyMcAllen.com site, but any residents of McAllen and beyond can use the coupons to take advantage of the specials and discounts,” says Steve Ahlenius, president and CEO of the McAllen Chamber of Commerce. “We have 1,700 Chamber members, so this can ultimately become quite an exciting Web site for both businesses and customers to utilize.”

Ahlenius says that besides the BuyMcAllen.com Web site, coupons are also scrolled on the home page of the Chamber’s www.mcallenchamber.com site. On their coupon specials, participating members may list their contact information, directions to the business and a link to their own Web sites.

Coupons purchased by members are all one size, and the first 50 Chamber members to sign up for the Web site program will receive a discounted posting price.

“Normally, the cost is $19.95 a month for Chamber members to post their coupon, but our introductory special is $9.95 a month and 60 days free posting for the first 50 members who get involved,” Ahlenius says. “The program is quite easy. For example, Rain Soft was one of our first members to post a coupon, offering free in-home water testing and a $20 gift card. It’s as simple as that.”

Another savings tool that the Chamber is offering these days is a McAllen Value Card, which has been sent to all 1,700 Chamber members. The free card offers numerous discounts to members who frequent stores, businesses and restaurants in the area.

A few examples of savings specials listed on the McAllen Value Card include a 15 percent discount off any signage at The Sign Depot, 15 percent off all diamond jewelry at Portillo Jewelers and $200 off closing costs at GMAC Mortgage. The Chamber is also distributing 24,000 of the value cards into the Monterrey market.

“Our job here at the chamber is to promote business, and that is exactly what we do every day,” Ahlenius says. “The BuyMcAllen.com program and the McAllen Value Card initiative are simply two additional ways that we help our members get the word out about their products and services.”

– Kevin Litwin

The McAllen Chamber of Commerce recently launched two new programs that

offer discounts for goods and services provided by member businesses.

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Business | Chamber Report

ECONOMIC RESOURCES

McAllen Economic Development Corporation6401 S. 33rd St.McAllen, TX 78503(956) 682-2875www.medc.org

McAllen Convention & Visitors Bureau(945) 682-2871www.mcallen.org

McAllen Heart of the City220 S. 17th St.McAllen, TX 78501(956) 686-4357www.mcallenheartofthecity.com

McAllen Chamber of Commerce1200 Ash Ave.McAllen, TX 78501(956) 682-2871www.mcallenchamber.com

BUSINESS CLIMATEMcAllen was ranked No. 1 in job growth and No. 2 in income

growth by Forbes magazine in 2008.

McALLEN

TAXES

2%County Sales Tax

6.25%State Sales Tax

8.25%Total Sales Tax

2.80%per $100 Residential Property Tax

REAL ESTATE

$136,600Average Home Price

20.87%Home Turnover Percentage

TRANSPORTATION

McAllen-Miller

International Airport

2500 S. Bicentenial Blvd.

McAllen, TX 78503

(956) 682-9101

www.mcallenairport.com

McAllen Express Transit

1500 W. Business Highway 83

McAllen, TX 78501

(956) 688-3500

McAllen/Hidalgo

International Bridge

1023 International Blvd.

Hidalgo, TX

(956) 843-2471

Greyhound/

Valley Transit Co.

(956) 686-5479

www.valleytransitcompany.com

Amtrak

www.amtrak.com

GOVERNMENT OFFICES

City of McAllen

1300 Houston Ave.

McAllen, TX 78501

(956) 681-1002

www.mcallen.net

INDUSTRIAL SITES LINK

www.medc.org

MORE ONLINE

imagesmcallen.com

More facts, stats and community information, including relocation tools and links to resources.

E OOOOOOOOOOOO


Business | Economic Profile

Visitors are crying fowl at Quinta Mazatlan and that’s a good thing.

The city-owned estate has undergone an extensive restoration and today is an even more impressive showcase for local f lora and fauna.

The 1930s hacienda is the McAllen Wing of the World Birding Center, and has as its mission the preservation of the native plants and animals of the Rio Grande Valley. The 10,000-square-foot mansion is encircled by formal tropical gardens, which then spread out into more rustic, forest-like grounds that are dotted with water and bird-feeding stations to lure in wildlife.

Some of these welcomed visitors include Black-bellied Whistling Ducks, Green Jays, Plain Chachalacas, Buff-bellied Hummingbirds and Olive Sparrows.

And in addition to the World Birding

Center designation, which makes the mansion one of nine sites along 120 miles of river from South Padre Island to Roma, Quinta Mazatlan also has 15 acres of nature trails and grounds. As a focus for conservation and regrowth of native species, these meadow areas serve as an outdoor classroom and set-ting for many of the facility’s programs.

Recent work at Quinta Mazatlan includes the restoration and enhance-ment of the Wooded Meadow area of the site, which included adding native trees and plants that help attract and support wildlife, says Colleen Curran Hook, manager.

“The meadow serves as a home for the birds and as a recreational space for the people,” Hook says. “It’s a new way to look at parks, which traditionally don’t encompass so many trees and plants creating a forest-like effect. The

meadow concept also requires less maintenance and water.”

She points to the extensive planting of buffalo grass, which requires no mowing, as another example of how native plants save both money and time when it comes to landscaping and upkeep.

“Wooded meadows are a great example of green management, as they provide a long-term multifunctional use for the land,” she says.

Visit www.quintamazatlan.comfor more information on Quinta Mazatlan and its programs.

Fostering Flora and Fauna HISTORIC HACIENDA QUINTA MAZATLAN BECOMES FEATHER IN THE CAP FOR TOURISM

WATCH MORE ONLINE | Take a quick tour of Quinta Mazatlan at www.imagesmcallen.com.

Quinta Mazatlan was built in the 1930s by Jason Chilton Matthews and his wife, Marcia Jamieson Matthews.

The city now owns the estate, which serves as the McAllen wing of the World Birding Center. PHOTOS BY JESSE KNISH


Portfolio

FAMILY PRACTICE WITH COMPETENCE AND INTEGRIT Y

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FAMILY PHYSICIANS CLINICSince 1967

Mon.-Fri. 8 a.m.-5 p.m.Sat. 8 a.m.-Noon

6824515

VALLEY NIGHT CLINICSince 1981

Open Every Night of the Year6 p.m.-Midnight

6824515 McAllen’s new Palms Crossing development already has become a shopping and entertainment destination for the Rio Grande Valley.

Even in a city that is well known for its shopping opportunities, there’s

always room for more. McAllen has even more variety in its storefronts thanks to the newly opened Palms Crossing shopping center.

The 396,000-square-foot property is owned and operated by the Simon Property Group and is adjacent to the new McAllen Convention Center. Large retailers include Babies “R” Us, Barnes & Noble, Beall’s, Cavender’s Boot City, DSW Shoe Warehouse, Guitar Center and Sports Authority. Smaller stores include Avenue, Claire’s, Rack Room Shoes, Relax 2 Sleep, Ben & Jerry’s and Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory.

And should food be on the agenda for the shopping trip, PF Chang’s, Romano’s Macaroni Grill, Mimi’s Restaurant and BJ’s Restaurant and Brewhouse have opened their doors and will have new neighbors once the mall’s second phase opens in 2009.

Residents have embraced Palms Crossing so far and are encouraging its continued growth, says Isabel Rodriguez-Vera, area director of marketing and business development.

“Palms Crossing immediately became the hot spot for dining in McAllen, so we are thrilled with the public’s response,” Rodriguez-Vera says. “Chuck E. Cheese’s will be the next restaurant to open this fall, and phase two will be anchored by Best Buy and other retailers.”

Plans for the mall began to take shape in 2003, when the city was putting together the blueprints for its convention center district. Given that the area already has such popular shopping destinations as La Plaza Mall and the Rio Grande Valley Premium Outlets, Palms Crossing had to work to set itself apart and has done so successfully, notes Rodriguez-Vera.

“It’s very exciting to see McAllen growing as a retail destination, and we are delighted to be a part of its growth,” she says.

Palms Crossing Showcases Retail SuccessP

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WarehousesSale/Lease 1,500 up to 20,000 sq. ft.

Call Carlos Zambito

[email protected]

Dock High & Coolers Available

The Warehouse Kingdom

www.mcallenwarehouse.com

McAllen ProduceTerminal Market

A McAllen Chamber of Commerce Innovation Grant has helped recipient Kenneth Jones to further develop his idea for a plastic ceiling rail system.

Chamber Grants Give Boost to Small Businesses

Putting its money where its boost-erism is, the McAllen Chamber

of Commerce has launched its Small Business Grant program.

The program gives participants a chance to obtain up to $25,000 in grant funds that do not have to be repaid. Since the program is limited to com-panies with 50 or fewer employees, it puts the money directly into the hands of emerging entrepreneurs at a time when their companies are at a make-or-break point, says Steve Ahlenius, president and CEO of the McAllen Chamber of Commerce.

“It’s been a good program for us, because it’s really designed to foster entrepreneurs, that small company that’s just been up and running for a couple of years,” Ahlenius says. “It gives them a little boost in terms of operations, and goes to our core philosophy of what we want to be doing. Innovation, creativity and entrepreneurship are the focus of the Chamber, so this is a key foundation behind that strategy.”

The program joins similar measures at the Chamber, including a business plan writing competition, an arts grants program, and its Innovation Grant program, which awards up to $50,000 for the “next new idea,” Ahlenius adds.

“We want to foster creativity, whether it’s someone tinkering in their garage or a software developer,” Ahlenius says.

Innovation Grant recipient Kenneth Jones says those funds have enhanced his credibility when talking to lenders about fundraising for Plastic Light Rail King, his rail-system company, as he prepares to take his product to market.

“This grant enabled me to get a couple of loans and also obtain a partner,” Jones says. “It’s very important, and I hope it means that we can get some angel investors into the Valley here. Generating funds is something that the chamber can help us concentrate on, so we can invent and get to the market with-out running into as many roadblocks.”


1906 E. Tyler, Ste. BP.O. Box 1830

Harlingen, TX 78550(956) 423-8755

Fax: (956) 423-0730(888) 423-8755

801 N. MainP.O. Box 1630

McAllen, TX 78501(956) 682-2841

Fax: (956) 630-4015(800) 446-2471

WORKERS’ COMPENSATION

www.shepardwaltonking.com

“You’ll Like theWay We Do Business”

Downtown business owners and visitors alike are enjoying the enhanced convenience afforded by the district’s new $6.9 million parking garage.

A new, $6.9 million parking garage has opened for business in down-

town McAllen, much to the delight of merchants in the city’s core, as it provides unprecedented convenience for their customers.

The 438-space, five-story garage sits at the intersection of 15th Street and Beaumont Avenue and charges $2.25 for two hours’ parking. Its ground floor is built for multiple uses, including a food court, and also houses the down-town services department, the city’s vital statistics and passport divisions, and a subunit of the McAllen Police Department.

Having a central place for residents and shoppers to park already is enhancing the visitor experience in an already-vibrant downtown, says Alida Hernandez, board chair of McAllen’s Heart of the City Improvement Corp.

“We’re going to see around 15,000 users a month, so there will be a lot of foot traffic coming in and out of the garage,” Hernandez says. “We’ve got about 19 new venues coming or open down on 17th Street in the entertainment district, so this will be so convenient for people coming down to visit those.”

Heart of the City is looking to take over the McAllen Street Market, held the second Sunday in January, February and March, and will use the new garage facility for that event, as well, she says.

The city’s marching orders for Heart of the City and other downtown boosters were to create an arts district, an entertainment district and to change the retail mix throughout the area. Building the garage is one way for McAllen to back up its mandates, says Elizabeth Suarez, transit director.

“The garage joins the $5 million bus terminal we’ve built, and we’re excited for several reasons,” Suarez says. “It’s starting to fill up, and it’s got a great f low of traffic. We’re also starting to see people leave their cars in it overnight when they’re going to travel by bus, and so the different uses for it are becoming apparent to people.

“It’s centrally located, not a bad walk to or from anywhere,” she adds. “It’s a foundation upon which we can lay more growth going forward.”

Downtown Gets Garage Makeover

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Plenty of folks in McAllen like a good jog; some even train for and compete in marathons. But only one has run

marathons on every continent, including Antarctica.Meet Francisco Moreno, a true globetrotter – although

the pace he sets usually far exceeds a trot.The X-ray technician and avid runner had chalked up

runs on five continents by the end of 2007, and by mid-2008 had managed to knock out the last two, South America and Antarctica. All told, he’s run 34 marathons in eight countries around the globe and he’s by no means through.

“I had a friend who asked me if I wanted to try running on the moon, and I don’t think that’s a bad idea,” Moreno says. “But right now, I don’t have the money.”

Moreno uses his journeys to highlight a worthwhile cause, United for Sight of South Texas. The group, formerly known as the Blind Birders, conducts activities for the visually impaired. Moreno often solicits support for the organization among the doctors and other staffers at Knapp Medical in Weslaco, where he works.

“The doctors and the people in the community are very helpful in giving money,” he says. “It’s been creating more awareness, letting people know that being blind doesn’t mean just sitting at home or being inactive.”

Moreno says he hopes to see the blind and visually impaired compete more in marathons, and in the meantime he’s going full speed ahead with his own plans.

“I’m working on some 50-mile runs in order to compete in South Africa,” he says. “Most marathons are 26 miles, so that’s more work. I’m also planning a run in Berlin, and then will see where I go next. I pay my own way, so I have to save.”

Meanwhile, Moreno can be caught pounding the pave-

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2322 N. McColl Rd.McAllen, TX 78501

956.682.2092Fax: 956.994.0812

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Service Times Sundays 10 a.m. and 11:40 a.m. 11:40 a.m. – Spanish (XS) Wednesdays at 7 p.m.

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Francisco Moreno has run marathons all over the world, raising awareness for United for Sight of South Texas.

Meet a True Globetrotter ment in and around McAllen as he warms up for the next big challenge.

“I do some training on the Bicentennial [Hike & Bike] Trail in town,” he says. “It’s a nice, long stretch and goes around the airport and around town. I like to run it.”

– Stories by Joe Morris


South Texas College is taking learning to a new degree. The college has long offered dual credit courses that allow high school students to take college courses in

tandem with fulfilling their secondary education requirements. Recently the college, which operates five campuses throughout Starr and Hidalgo counties, has brought the concept up a notch with its dual enrollment academies.

The academies set high school sophomores on a degree pathway toward careers in engineering and science, allowing them to earn an associate degree weeks before graduating high school, according to Guadalupe Chavez, coordinator for the academies.

“The purpose of the program is to increase the number of rural area students in the science and technology fields of higher education,” says Chavez. “With the support from the local school districts, the community, local health-care professionals and engineers, academy programs are preparing students and providing the support structure required to retain students and facilitate transition into a university of their choice.”

Graduates – many of whom are first-generation college students – continue their educations at prestigious universities in Texas and throughout the U.S. In 2008 alone, 46 academy graduates received more than $1.8 million in scholarships. Best of all, the program is free to students and their families. The college waives tuition and fees, while textbooks and transportation are provided by local school districts. Grants

and donations also enable students to participate in college tours, academic trips and internships.

Another program giving students an academic boost is the Achieve Early College High School program, offered through McAllen Independent School District in partnership with STC. The new school, which opened in fall 2008, allows 400 students to complete high school on the college’s Pecan Campus in McAllen. There, they can also earn up to 60 hours of college credit at no cost to students or their families.

“The program is part of a larger set of initiatives to increase college-going rates and build a ‘college-going culture’ in Hidalgo and Starr counties,” says Wallace Johnson, assistant director for college readiness and Early College High School programs.

Johnson says the program also provides scholarships and transfer opportunities not available in the traditional high school environment.

South Texas College also offers traditional college programs, a nursing and allied health campus, and a technology campus in McAllen, as well as workforce training centers, which are located at the Technology Campus and the Mid-Valley and Starr County campuses. In 2005, the school added the Bachelor of Applied Technology in technology management to its offerings and added the Bachelor of Applied Technology in computer technology in 2008. South Texas College is one of only two in the state accredited to offer Bachelor of Technology degrees. – Melanie Hill

Kick-Starting CollegeSOUTH TEXAS COLLEGE PUTS HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS AHEAD OF THE CURVE

South Texas College operates a nursing and allied health campus in McAllen, which is among five STC campuses in Starr and Hidalgo counties. The college is actively involved in initiatives to increase college-going rates in the area.

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I spysomethinggreen.

Everyday moments can be learning moments with your kids. For more tips, visit bornlearning.org.


Stay cool all year, even in the Texas tropics, at McAllen’s RGV Ice Center, where skaters hit the

ice for leisure, figure skating and youth and adult hockey.

Located on 26th Street, the RGV Ice Center opened in December 2005 and is open seven days a week, with public skating hours every day.

“It’s great for families in McAllen because it’s a safe place, and it gives kids

and adults another place to play and get some exercise,” says Violet Grammer, owner of RGV Ice Center. “We have public skating, learn-to-skate classes and learn-to-play-hockey classes, and we also do a lot of birthday parties. We’re busiest on weekends, and we stay open until midnight on those days.”

More than 40 kids participate in figure skating at the RGV Ice Center, and they travel to competitions regularly.

Keep Your CoolICE CENTER OFFERS FROZEN FUN IN THE TEXAS TROPICS

Tani and Cori Talamantez enjoy a skating session at RGV Ice Center, which opened in December 2005.

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“These kids started in our learn-to-skate classes and advanced to private skating lessons,” Grammer says. “They’ve done very well. Our figure skating instructor is exceptional, and the kids always come home with awards.”

RGV Ice Center’s youth hockey pro-gram has about 100 kids, and the adult hockey league has eight teams.

“The hockey program is really growing due to the learn-to-play-hockey classes,” Grammer says. “When students advance, they are placed on a team. We host tournaments here, and there are five other towns around us that also have hockey leagues. So we go to them, and they come to us.”

The 30,000-square-foot center features an official-size ice rink, a pro shop and concessions, including beer and wine. It’s a popular place for school field trips and private parties.

“Businesses can rent the whole place for a party. We had the police department here last Christmas,” Grammer says. “We offer fun activities like snowman building and snowball fights. We do that by shaving the ice from the Zamboni and building a big pile of it.”

The RGV Ice Center gives back to the community by offering grants to kids who want to play hockey but can’t afford it. The center also holds fundraisers, one of which raises money to buy school supplies for kids in need.

“I love seeing the kids and their smiles when they’re on the ice,” Grammer says. “Some people here have never seen snow or ice outside, so it’s something different for them. I enjoy seeing people engage in something that’s relaxing and fun.”

Admission to the RGV Ice Center is $7, and skate rental is $3. Groups of 10 or more qualify for a discount.

For public skate hours or other infor-mation about the RGV Ice Center, call (956) 618-9944. – Jessica Mozo


Sports & Recreation

Charles Clark Chevrolet President and CEO Kirk Clark knows Monet and Michelangelo just as

well as his Monte Carlos and Malibus. The son of two artists, Clark was

given a paint set when he was 10 years old. Now, more than 50 years later, his works are on display in galleries throughout Texas and New Mexico.

A 1969 graduate of the University of New Mexico College of Fine Arts, Clark has successfully balanced his business with his artistic leanings and education to experience the best of both worlds.

“Yes, I am at the dealership every day, then I go home to paint every night,” Clark says. “I really only paint part-time, but I’m still able to complete 300 paintings a year. It is truly a passion.”

Clark says since his parents were artists and collectors, he would travel as a young child with them to meet renowned artists, gallery operators and museum curators across the country.

“Meeting those talented individuals

and seeing their incredible works must have stimulated me, because the fire within me hasn’t died down,” he says. “It remains a lot of fun for me each day.”

Clark owns a small gallery, plus many of his works can be viewed at his Web site, www.kirkclark.com.

As for mentors, he credits several people over the years and wants to return the favor to young artists at this point in his career.

“I am pleased that the McAllen Chamber of Commerce and McAllen city officials have the wisdom to begin encouraging arts in our community, and this movement is just starting to scratch the surface,” he says. “This city could easily become a destination for artistic talent, and I certainly want to be a mentor and a force to help that happen.”

The Chamber recently recognized Clark with its Eagle Award for the Arts, which honors significant financial and in-kind contributions to the arts in the McAllen area.

“I am impressed with the quality of talent in the Rio Grande Valley, which is a great natural environment for young, new and talented artists,” he says. “The Chamber has an incubator program for artists that is going very well, and I want to encourage city leaders to keep alive this entire artistic initiative in McAllen.”

Clark is a religious man, and every dollar from the many pieces of art he has sold over the years has been donated to charity. As for these days, he is painting many of his works in acrylics, while several other paintings are in oils.

The International Museum of Art and Science in McAllen is one of the many places where his finished pieces are on display.

“I also do sketch drawings, dabble in sculpture, make original jewelry and enjoy writing poetry in the ancient Chinese style of Bagua,” he says. “I have always loved the arts – just like so many other residents of McAllen and the Rio Grande Valley.” – Kevin Litwin

The Artbeat of AmericaCHEVROLET DEALER REALIZES ARTISTIC BENT THROUGH PROLIFIC PAINTING CAREER

Charles Clark Chevrolet President and CEO Kirk Clark paints prolifically, creating more than 300 works each year.

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Arts & Culture

Looking for ways to save money on gas and help the environment? The EPA wants to share some smart driving tips that could give you more miles per gallon of gas and reduce air pollution. Tips like making sure your tires are properly infl ated and replacing your air fi lter regularly. And where possible, accelerate and brake slowly. Be aware of your speed ... did you know that for every 5 miles you go over 65 mph, you’re spending about 20 cents more per gallon of gas? If you’re shopping for a new car, choose the cleanest, most effi cient vehicle that meets your needs. If we each adopt just one of these tips, we’d get more miles for our money and it would be a little easier to smell the fl owers. For more tips and to compare cleaner, more effi cient vehicles, visit

www.epa.gov/greenvehicles.

Save Money. Smell the Flowers.

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For Doctors Hospital at Renaissance, 2008 was a year of superlatives.

In May, the McAllen facility was named to the prestigious Thomson Reuters Top 100 Hospitals listing. DHR was among facilities recognized for significantly improving hospital-wide performance for five consecutive years.

Then three months later, DHR found itself on another major health-care “best of” list, as one of only 173 facilities nationwide to score enough points to be included in U.S. News & World Report’s annual America’s Best Hospitals survey. The magazine sifts through data from almost 5,500 medical centers to identify the qualifying hospitals.

Of the specialties surveyed, the hospital scored highest in heart and heart surgery, a program that is only 10 years old.

“Our heart team of physicians, nurses and other health-care professionals throughout the hospital earned this designation purely on the basis of objective data, especially our remarkably low mortality rate,” says Marissa Castañeda, chief operating officer at DHR. “We’ve proven in just a short amount of time we could build a program based on quality outcomes for patients and develop record high patient satisfaction.”

But DHR is hardly resting on its recent laurels. The hospital also has become a leader in the field of coronary artery bypass surgery. Along those lines, it was the first hospital in South Texas to use the daVinci robot for bypass surgery.

DHR’s accolades draw attention to a thriving health-care industry in the area, which includes a total of three major hospitals.

At Rio Grande Regional Hospital, leadership has taken steps to becoming the local leader in pediatric services with the opening of a pediatric pavilion. The pavilion includes a 14-bed intensive care unit, plus a second, 12-bed step-down unit to serve those patients between ICU and general pediatric care.

Accompanying these facility changes is an extensive staff-training program through Methodist Children’s Hospital in San Antonio that will ensure the hospital’s medical personnel have the necessary skills to treat these vulnerable patients.

“It’s a specialty care,” says Rob Heifner, chief operating officer of Rio Grande Regional Hospital. “It’s not just doing the same thing to smaller bodies.”

At the 441-bed McAllen Medical Center, patients have peace of mind knowing they can turn to 400-plus physicians on staff who specialize in more than 50 fields. One of these physicians making recent news is Dr. Ray Fulp, an orthopedic surgeon who recently performed the region’s first cervical disc replacement surgery. The procedure, which employs intervertebral disc prostheses for the cervical spine, restores the function of the spine while also reducing pain.

Providing Chart-Topping CareACCOLADES AND NEW OFFERINGS DRAW ATTENTION TO AREA’S THREE HOSPITALS

Dr. Pedro Mego is part of the accolade-earning heart team at Doctors Hospital at Renaissance. DHR is one of three major medical facilities providing quality health care to McAllen area residents.

PHOTO BY JESSE KNISH

“This device will revolutionize neck surgery,” Fulp says.In addition to the ever-increasing list of specialized services

and technological advancements being made at the area’s three major medical centers, visitors and patients continue to benefit from physical facilities improvements across the board. DHR opened its new Women’s Hospital at Renaissance in fall 2007; McAllen Medical Center opened its remodeled emergency department in summer 2007; and Rio Grande Regional Medical Center wrapped up a facility-wide renovation in fall 2007. – Dan Markham


Health & Wellness


COMMUNITY

THIS SECTION IS SPONSORED BY

McALLEN

SNAPSHOTMcAllen is an area with a burgeoning arts culture and a host

of community events that keep residents busy year round.

CLIMATE

23.2 in.Average Annual Precipitation

49 F January Low Temperature

70 FJanuary High Temperature

75 FJuly Low Temperature

97 FJuly High Temperature

MORE ONLINE

imagesmcallen.com

More facts, stats and community information, including relocation tools and links to resources.

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COMMUNITY RESOURCES

Police Department

1601 N. Bicentennial Blvd.

McAllen, TX 78501

(956) 972-7400

Fire Department

201 N. 21st St.

McAllen, TX 78501

(956) 972-7500

City Attorney

1300 Houston Ave.

McAllen, TX 78501

(956) 681-1090

Downtown Services

221 S. 15th St.

McAllen, TX 78501

(956) 681-3525

Community Development (CDBG)200 S. 10th St. McAllen, TX 78501(956) 972-7241

City Department Listingwww.mcallen.net

CITY LINK

www.mcallen.net

Community Profile


Ad Index 38 AEP TEXAS

42 BORDER CAPITAL BANK

6 CHARLES CLARK CHEVROLET

40 COPY GRAPHICS

1 COPY PLUS!

48 COPY ZONE

42 DE SANCHEZ DAY SPA & SALON

29 EMBASSY SUITES

34 FAMILY PHYSICIANS CLINIC LLP & VALLEY NIGHT CLINIC

4 INTERNATIONAL BANK OF COMMERCE

40 LYNN LEE INC .

46 MAGIC VALLEY ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE

44 MCALLEN BONE & JOINT CLINIC PA

47 MCALLEN CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU

38 MCALLEN ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION

C4 MCALLEN INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT

30 MCALLEN INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

35 MCALLEN PRODUCE TERMINAL MARKET

2 PENA EYE INSTITUTE

10 RENAISSANCE CASA DE PALMAS HOTEL

C2 RIO GRANDE REGIONAL HOSPITAL

36 SHEPARD WALTON KING

C3 SOUTH TEXAS HEALTH SYSTEM

37 THE FAMILY CHURCH

44 THE LITTLE GYM

7 VALLEY INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

Images McAllen, TX: 2009

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