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The Chamber News Magazine

2nd Annual

WHAT’S ON BOARD: Edinburg Nature Photography Festival FIESTA Edinburg Recap with POSTER World Birding Center Ribbon Cuttings and more

P.O. Box 85 602 W. University Edinburg, TX 78540 Phone (956) 383-4974 Fax (956) 383-6942

www.edinbu rg.com

EXECUTIVE OFFICERS CHAIRMAN Jaime A. Rodriguez • JAR Development, LP

CHAIR - ELECT

April 2006

Vision Stat e m e n t The Edinburg Chamber of Commerce is a network of leaders serving Edinburg and the region as an advocate and resource, advancing commerce and the quality of life.

Mark Magee • First National Bank

I M M E D I AT E PA S T C H A I R Chris Smolik • Edinburg Regional Medical Center

TREASURER Brian Disque • Texas State Bank

VICE-CHAIRMEN Ramiro Garza • Edinburg Economic Development Corp.

Cris Torres • Inter National Bank Elva Jackson Garza • Edwards Abstract and Title Co. Noe Valdez • Valdez Meats & Catering Sal Robles • Liberty EMS

D I R E C TO R S Cynthia Bocanegra Lee Castro Johnny Garcia Gary L. Henrichson Darcy Kelly Fred L. Kurth Johnny Rodriguez Jessica Salinas Margie Santos

Chaps Bar & Grill Memorial Funeral Home Ceballos Diaz Funeral Home Law Office of Gary L. Henrichson Peter Piper Pizza Melden & Hunt, Inc. Austin Personnel Services VBOC @ UTPA International Bank of Commerce

EX-OFFICIO'S Mike Govind, Best Western, Edinburg Inn & Suites Eddie Saenz, J.E. Saenz & Associates

STA F F Letty Martinez, P resident Cristal De Los Santos, Director of Tourism Evana Vleck, Director of Marketing & Special Events Imelda Rodriguez, Tourism Assistant

Mission Sta t e m e n t Our Charge is to lead the effort in advancing commerce and the quality of life in Edinburg and the region. We will foster service, development, and growth by forging positive relationships, advocating volunteerism, and leadership development.

C o re Values We will be ambitious in our endeavors, operate effectively and efficiently, promote mutual respect and honesty, seek commitment, ownership, and accountability, and have fun!

CONTENTS Letter from the Chairman ....................................p. 3 2nd Annual Nature Photography Festival............p. 4 Leadership Edinburg ...........................................p. 6 World Birding Center ...........................................p. 7 FIESTA Edinburg.................................................p. 8 Ribbon Cuttings.................................................p. 12 Birds, Trains & History Boost Edinburg.............p. 15 Edwards Abstract & Title ...................................p. 16 Recent Events ...................................................p. 17 Thank You Winter Texans..................................p. 18 Calendar of Events / EEDC...............................p. 19

Letter from the Chairman

Our Key to Success Your Chamber Board of Directors and staff are busy moving forward with various projects including the 2nd Annual Nature Photography Festival and Texas Cook’em High Steaks thereafter, commending all participants, students, vendors, volunteers and sponsors for a “fiesta fun time” during the 38th Annual Fiesta Edinburg. Having set precedence, both upcoming events are sure to be successful with our continued commitment to our prosperous city of Edinburg.

The Annual Nature Photography Festival is scheduled May 3 thru the 6th promoting what our blossoming area has to offer to Nature lover’s worldwide.

Festival participants will experience tropical and migratory birds, blooming cactus, regional mammals and reptiles on secluded and the security of private lands. The four-day festival includes shooting, photo displays, dinners, breakfasts, lodging, transportation, guides, ranch admission and BBQ. This is sure to be a unique and memorable experience.

Jaime A. Rodriguez

For those who can cook’em up good, the upcoming Texas Cook’em High Steaks is scheduled July 1st and 2nd at the Edinburg Municipal Park. Applicants must register prior to the event. Over $15,000 in prize money will be awarded.

Noting we have just begun to set a new standard for success, thank you fellow Chamber Board Members for your volunteerism, the business community for their monetary assistance and the people of Edinburg for supporting a place we all call home. Together, the Edinburg Chamber of Commerce is true to it’s mission statement: “Our charge is to lead the effort in advancing commerce and the quality of life in Edinburg and the region. We will foster service, development and growth by forging positive relationships, advocating volunteerism and leadership development”.

To learn more about the chamber or to inquire on upcoming events contact Cristal de los Santos at 383-4974 or visit us on the web at www.edinburg.com

Jaime A. Rodriguez, Chairman

JAR Development April 2006

Jaime A. Rodriguez Owner

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2nd Annual Natur e Photogr aphy F estival The Edinburg Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce the 2nd Annual Edinburg Nature Photography Festival to be held in Edinburg, Texas from May 3-6, 2006.

Edinburg has stepped right into gear in promoting what our blossoming area has to offer to Nature lover’s world wide. Edinburg is growing and is becoming a popular tourist destination; festival participants will experience tropical and migratory birds, blooming cactus, not to mention an array of regional mammals and reptiles for the eyes’ content.

What makes this festival exceptional is the focus on nature photography and the lure of private land.

Participants will be able to enjoy the seclusion and security of private lands. Other highlighted festival features are: access to over nearly a dozen historic private ranches, expertly designed photography sites, permanent photo blinds, feeders, ponds, butterfly gardens, and lastly unique species to photograph.

Ranch participants are: Dos Venadas developed by Steve Bentsen and Laura Elaine Moore, El Tecolote, Las Colmenas de los Cerritos, Martin Refuge owned

by John & Audrey Martin, and The Weaver Ranch.

The Festival spans 4 days, which includes 3 fun filled days of shooting, photo displays, dinners, breakfasts, lodging, transportation, guides, ranch admission and a Cinco de Mayo celebration with Margaritas and Texas BBQ! Cost is only $1,000 for single occupancy and $800 for double.

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Interested participants please contact Cristal de los Santos at 956-383-4974 or visit us on the web at www.edinburg.com.

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2nd Annual Nature Photography Festival Program Summary We d n e s d a y, M ay 3, 2006 12:00-4:00 pm 6:00 pm 8:00 pm

Shuttle pick-up at airport Kickoff reception with landowners Return to hotel

T h u r s d a y, M ay 4, 2006 5:00-5:30 am 5:45 am 7:30 pm 8:30 pm

Breakfast at hotel Departure from hotel to designated ranch Lunch at ranch Pick-up at sundown Mexican dinner buffet at host hotel

F r i d a y, M a y 5, 2006 5:00-5:30 am 5:45 am 7:30 pm 8:30 pm

Breakfast at hotel Departure from hotel to designated ranch Lunch at ranch Pick-up at sundown Cinco de Mayo celebration at specific ranch. Margaritas and Texas BBQ

Sat u r d a y, M ay 6, 2006 5:00-5:30 am 5:45 am

6:00 pm 7:30 pm

Breakfast at hotel Departure from hotel to designated ranch Lunch at ranch (Digital pick-up of photos) Early pick-up Dinner, display of photos, exchange of stories, experiences, etc.

S u n d a y, M a y 7, 2006 5:00-5:30 am 6:00am-2:00 pm

Breakfast at hotel Vans deliver participants to airport (except those signed up for optional day)

Nature photos courtesy of Steve Bentsen.

April 2006

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Leader ship Edinbur g Sixteen years ago a group of Edinburg Citizens involved in the Edinburg Chamber of Commerce decided leadership would improve if potential and emerging leaders had an opportunity to interact with one another and learn about the problems and issues facing the community.

This year’s class, Leadership Class XVII is underway.

The class will be learning about government, politics, media, history, education, economic development and quality of life.

From this vision, Leadership Edinburg grew to the program we have today. In December 2005, the Steering Committee selected approximately fourteen members for Class XVII beginning in January, 2006.

Each of these individuals show past evidence of community involvement and express a desire for future leadership. In return, Leadership Edinburg commits to provide distinct learning environments, which will improve its member’s leadership skills and opportunities.

T his ye a r, t h e s t e e r ing committee has chosen a dive r s e a n d v i b r a n t g r o u p :

To date over 300 people have met the Leadership Edinburg challenge. After completing the class, members have gone on to improve Edinburg by serving on many local committees, served on community boards and have worked in local politics.

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Jose J. Rios: City of Edinburg, Jose E. Segura: First National Bank, Roberto C. Lopez: Wells Fargo Bank, Dina Isabel Gamboa: International Bank of Commerce, Joanne Shannon: Edinburg Regional Medical Center, Kevin Brent Lindsey: Edinburg Regional Medical Center, Jesse Peralez: South Texas Health Sustem, Michael A. York: Edinburg Regional Medical Center, Arcadio Eloy Casas: First National Bank, Helen Cavazos: First National Bank, Chris Quin: Valley Insurance Services, Darcy Kelly: Peter Piper Pizza, Irma P. Cadena: Memorial Funeral Home, and Javier Arranda: Texas State Bank.

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World Bir ding Center Just off the busy intersection of University and Expressway 281, there exists a paradise. A world where flowers bloom in riotous colors, where birds in brilliant plumage dance and swim and play, and butterflies rise and fall among a sea of purple blooms. This paradise is the Edinburg Scenic Wetlands and World Birding Center (EWBC), a special place where wildlife can be seen up close almost anytime of the year, and almost any time of day. It is a place for both adults and children, both distant travelers and local residents. A place to explore, experience and discover the incredible beauty, and importance of wildlife and natural surroundings.

EWBC opened in March of 2003, the first in a family of nine World Birding Center sites across the Rio Grande Valley. Like most of the other WBC sites, we showcase native habitat unique to South Texas, with a special emphasis on birds. What sets us apart is that we created a wetland site near the heart of a major city.

Located within the Edinburg Municipal Park, our 40 acre setting is packed with native South Texas habitat that did not exist on site 40 years ago. The large wetlands that cover much of the landscape are effluent or “treated sewage� water from the City of Edinburg. The nutrients in the water encourage plant growth, which in turn provides food and habitat for a number of wetland birds, snakes, turtles and other species. Our spectacular 3.5 acre native butterfly garden is one of the largest of its kind in the Rio Grande Valley, providing habitat to hundreds of butterflies, dragonflies, and birds.

Also on site is our wonderful Interpretive Center, surrounded on three sides by glass. The Center overlooks the north pond, two smaller wetlands and a portion of our gardens, giving excellent views of a variety of wildlife species. The building itself contains interpretive exhibits to enhance a visitors learning experience, as well as a gift shop, education classroom, and professional staff.

Visitors can experience EWBC in a multitude of ways.

Many chose to walk the grounds, recreating with families and watching wildlife from many of our scenic overlooks.

Others take part in education and interpretive presentations, tours and programs. Some of these

April 2006

programs include: Kids Birding Club, Fledgling Naturalist, Saturday Nature Walks, Nature Journaling and Friday Night with a Naturalist (FNWN).

One of our biggest events of the year, the 2006 RGV Coastal Expo, is set for April 4th and 5th, 2006 at the Edinburg Municipal Park. Sponsored by the City of Edinburg and Texas Parks & Wildlife, this free event attracts thousands of school children and families each year, where they will learn about coastal ecology, South Texas wildlife and outdoor adventure though hands-on activities including a fishing tank, a boating and fishing skills area, live wildlife exhibit area, birding walks, a rock climbing wall, fossil hunting and more. The event coordinators are seeking volunteers & sponsors from the community to help with the event. To learn more about Coastal Expo, please call us at (956) 381-9922 or visit: http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/landwater/water/conservation/ coastalexpo/.

EWBC is a wonderful place to visit or take a part of interpretive and educational programs, whether on your own, or with a group. Visit us today and begin your own adventure into this wonderful paradise. Nature awaits your discovery. ~ Marisa Oliva, EWBC Manager

This spring, the Interpretive Center is opened Monday through Thursday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday & Saturday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Grounds are opened daily, sunrise to sunset.

Admission Fees are $2 for adults and $1 for seniors and children.

Yearly family membership is $20. Special fees apply for programs and tours. EWBC is located at 714 Raul Longoria Road in Edinburg TX. For information on the Center please call (956) 381-9922 or write to: Edinburg World Birding Center, PO Box 1079, Edinburg TX 78540. You can also contact Ms. Oliva at moliva@edinburgwbc.com.

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38th Annual FIESTA Edinbur g!

What a fun time Fiesta was! On Saturday, February 26th, our Grand Marshall, Bryon J. Lewis (Edwards Abstract), led beautifully decorated floats, bands and drill teams down University Drive, much to the delight of the thousands of spectators who were there to enjoy the parade. This year’s theme was ‘Mardi Gras’ and the entrants really outdid themselves. All entrants were adorned with the vibrant colors, masks, beads and costumes that Mardi Gras is known for. First place in the commercial float decoration contest was awarded to Nadia’s All That Dance and second place went to Chartwell Home Care while Lauren Yvana Ltd. Miss Texas Teen belleza Latina was awarded a 3rd place trophy. The first place award for school entries went to Norma Linda Trevino PTO, second place awarded to Travis Elementary and lastly the John F. Kennedy Cheer Squad PTO was awarded with a third place trophy. All participants put in long hours in preparation for this parade and their hard work was clearly evident by all of the beautiful green, purple and gold Mardi Gras decorations.

Following the traditional Fiesta parade, a car show, vendors, carnival and live entertainment sprawled out all across the Edinburg Municipal Park. Fajita tacos, nachos,

snow cones, funnel cakes, elote and other tempting treats filled the park as Pio Trevino y Grupo Magic strummed their guitars, and sang ballads beneath the valleys hot evening sky.

Other musicians were headliner, Mack 10, Paula de Anda, Estruendo, Until I Awake, No Place Like Home, System Overload, Flowcamp, Big Tim & MCXI, Mariachi Chacha Jimenez, Legendz – Eddie Perez, La Cauzza, La Frequenica, Cadetes De Linares, Grupo Chido, Volumen X, Atrapado. Audience members enjoyed the afternoon of food and music under the sun.

Among the many attractions that were part of Fiesta Edinburg, the car show was the newest addition to the line up. There were over 40 cars that are entered in the car show brought by Innovative Designs. Cars packed the pavilion bringing in crowds of people hoping to take a look at the all of the unique participating vehicles.

The Edinburg Chamber of Commerce wishes to thank all of the participants, students, vendors, volunteers and sponsors who made this event possible.

A special thank you A special thank you to Byron Jay Lewis, for serving as this year’s Fiesta Grand Marshal. Mr. Lewis is President of Edwards Abstract and Title Co. and partner of the law firm of Lewis Monroe & Pena for his years of service to the Edinburg Chamber of Commerce and other community based organizations, ongoing support of the Chamber’s programs and events and overall contributions made to the enhance the quality of life in Edinburg.

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We would like to thank the following for their generous time, donations, and sponsorships: E d i n bu rg C h a m b e r o f C o m m e rce Ex ecutive Officers

Ex-Of ficio's

J aime A . R o d r iguez, Chairman: JAR Development, LP M a rk M a gee, Chair-Elect: First National Bank C h ris Smolik, Immediate Past Chair: Edinburg Regional Medical Center B rian Disque, Treasurer: Texas State Bank R a m i ro G a r z a, Vice Chairman: Edinburg Economic Development Corp.

C ris To r r es, Vice Chariman: Inter National Bank Elva Jac k s o n G a r z a, Edwa rds Abstract and Title Co. Noe Valdez, Vice Chairman: Valdez Meats & Catering Sal Robles, Vice Chairman: Liberty EMS

Mike Govind, Best Western, Edinburg Inn & Suites Eddie Saenz, J.E. Saenz & Associates

Staff Letty Martinez, President Cristal De Los Santos, Director of Tourism Evana Vleck, Director of Marketing & Special Events Imelda Rodriguez, Tourism Assistant

Special T h a n k s :

D i re c t o r s Cynthia Bocanegr a , Chaps Bar & Grill L e e C a s t ro, Memorial Funeral Home J o h n ny G a rcia, Ceballos-Diaz Funeral Home G a ry L . H e n ric hson, Law Office of Gary L. Henrichson F r ed L. Ku r t h, Melden & Hunt, Inc. M a rgie Santos, International Bank of Commerce J essica Salinas, VBOC @ UTPA J o h n ny R o d r iguez, Austin Personnel Service D a rcy Kelly, Peter Piper Pizza

Echo Hotel & Conference Center Darcy Kelly of Peter Piper Pizza Byron Jay Lewis: 38th Annual Fiesta Grand Marshal Valdez Meats & Catering Austin Personnel Service

SPONSORS: City of Edinburg

FIESTA EDINBURG COMMITTEE

Gold

Lee Castro ........................................Memorial Funeral Home Elva Jackson Garza................Edwards Abstract and Title Co. Jaime A. Rodriguez..............................JAR Development, LP Melissa Rodruguez ........................Austin Personnel Services Jessica Salinas ..............................................VBOC @ UTPA Linda M. Morales..........................................VBOC @ UTPA Cris Torres ................................................Inter National Bank Nadia Valdez....................................................All That Dance Cris Lopez ................................................Innovative Designs Sam Lopez ................................................Innovative Designs Jorge Garza..........................International Bank of Commerce Myra Garza ........................International Bank of Commerce Dina Gamboa ......................International Bank of Commerce Jose M. Chapa ....................................KGBT FM / Univision Frank Garza ..................City of Edinburg Parks & Recreation Raul Ortiz ................................................................Vally Park Ramiro Moreno ............City of Edinburg Parks & Recreation Darcy Kelly ..................................................Peter Piper Pizza

Wal-Mart L & F Distributors Edwards Abstract and Title Co. Magic Valley Electric Coop South Texas Health System Inter National Bank Hibernia National Bank Texas State Bank Edinburg Economic Development Corporation First National Bank Edinburg Review The Monitor

April 2006

Silve r Planet Pizza International Bank of Commerce Linebarger Goggan Blair & Sampson Martin Farm & Ranch

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38th Annual F

FEBRUARY 2

Fiesta Edinburg

23 - 26, 2006

Ribbon Cuttings

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Chili’s January 26, 2006 at the business located on 2303 University Drive in Edinburg.

600 Gym Spa January 20, 2006 at the business located on 2202 Cornerstone Blvd. in Edinburg.

O’Reily Auto Parts February 10, 2006 at the business located on 1310 W. Monte Cristo in Edinburg.

Junior’s Supermarket February 15, 2006 at the business located on 3621 N. 281 in Edinburg.

Rio Grande Bible Institute - 60TH ANNIVERSARY February 20, 2006 at the business located on 4300 S. Bus. 281.

HEB Carwash February 21, 2006 at the business located on 1212 S. Closner.

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Ribbon Cuttings

Fire Station February 16, 2006 at the business located on 315 Mathew Ave. in Edinburg.

Eco Cleaners January 26, 2006 at the business located on 602 W. University in Edinburg

Edinburg Library - The Sekula family pose with Edinburg City Council members, city staff, and other local elected officials on Tuesday, March 1, 2006 at the groundbreaking ceremony for the new library which will be named in honor of marine, Dustin M. Sekula who lost his life in the war in Iraq.

Dr. Melva Palacios Medical Center March 2, 2006 at the business located on 2722 W. Canton Road in Edinburg.

Planet Pizza March 9, 2006 at the business located on 1204 E. Canton in Edinburg.

KB Home March 21, 2006 at the business located on 1800 South Main # 850 in McAllen.

April 2006

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Ribbon Cutting & Policy Groundbreaking Ceremony ers if they are: fered to Chamber memb of be ll wi gs kin ea br nd ou 1. Ribbon cutting and gr area the a. New business in nership b. Business under new ow ocated c. Business which has rel dergone renovation d. Business which has un etc.) ary (1st, 5th, 10th, 15th, ers niv an jor ma a ing rat e. Celeb e notice in order least two week's advanc at es uir req e erc mm most Co ber of esdays and Thursdays are Tu ts.

2. The Edinburg Cham en ev g kin ea br nd tting or grou due to poor to set a date for ribbon cu s are not recommended nd ke ee W . p.m :00 0/5 or 4:0 successful at 10:00 a.m. s request). be considered at member' ll wi ut (b e nc da en att r voluntee Coat Committees, s, Ambassador and Red tor rec Di of ard Bo ite ll inv to print special 3. The Chamber staff wi the member would like If e. tic no fax a via cil e at no cost.

Mayor and City Coun els for those listed abov lab ng ili ma the ide ov pr will invitations, the Chamber e for postage. ibl Member will be respons er calls 4. Staff will do remind

prior to event.

ased nce, as it is a volunteer-b da en att e nte ara gu ot nn erce ca 5. The Chamber of Comm organization. r scissors and/or shovels fo n, bo rib r, he ap gr oto ph erce will provide 6. The Chamber of Comm event. is sent to the amber newsletter, which ch the of s pie co in ed hotels, etc.

7. A photo will be featur fices, resturaunts, banks, of c bli pu in ted bu tri dis membership and sign is s where business name or es sin bu the of ior ter ex en in the front ess where 8. Photos are usually tak area in front of their busin f of ck blo to ed ag ur co is en displayed. The member y be taken inside as well. ma s oto Ph d. ye pla dis is business name or sign invite relatives, ents of their choice and hm res ref ide ov pr to ed urag 9. The member is enco s associates. sin friends and other bu es

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Bir ds, Tr ains & History Boost Edinbur g An unusual combination of birds, trains and history makes Edinburg a wonderful destination for tourist and local residents alike. The Edinburg Scenic Wetlands & World Birding Center (EWBC), located in the Edinburg Municipal Park off of Raul Longoria and (?), is one of nine centers located across the Valley. Together, these centers attract thousands of ‘eco-tourists’ each year and that number is expected to continue to grow as word spreads across the country and the world about the numerous species that can be viewed right here in the Rio Grande Valley. Well-renowned authors, photographers and magazine correspondents are doing their part to educate others how the unique geographic and environmental characteristics of the Valley serve to provide shelter, food and nesting grounds for millions of birds during the migratory season as well as the rare bird, reptile, butterflies and mammals that inhabit the area.

The EWBC provides a unique environment to learn about and see these wonderful creatures in the middle of a growing city. Nestled within a 40 acre site, this gem stands out among the other birding centers by providing wonderful access to the water features and close-up viewing opportunities for rare species such as the Least Grebe and Green Kingfisher which has attracted photographers and birders from around the world. A large variety of blooming native plants provide a uniquely beautiful butterfly garden that visitors can walk through on their way to or from the main building.

The Edinburg Scenic Wetlands & World Birding Center continues to grow in recognition with over tenthousand students, families, Winter Texans and EcoTourists visiting the site each year. Approaching its three-year anniversary, the site is really coming into its own as vegetation matures and wildlife abounds.

The EWBC runs a wetlands program for 5th graders and brings in students from all over the Valley for tours. Programs such as the upcoming Coastal Expo April 2006

also attract local, national and international visitors interested in the rare opportunity to view such a diverse number of bird species in one small area.

With the ever-increasing Eco Tourism industry, the EWBC is expected to continue to grow and prosper.

The Edinburg Chamber of Commerce is located in the original train depot that served the early residents and businesses of the Edinburg area. It was unoccupied for several years until the Chamber was able to acquire and renovate it to its original condition.

Visitors to the Depot will find historical information about the early days of the station and Edinburg as well as literature on businesses in Edinburg and other points of interest in the area and the Valley. All are welcome to come by and visit the Chamber Depot free of charge during regular business hours.

For a broader perspective on the history of Edinburg and the Valley, the Museum of South Texas History is the place to be. The museum recently completed a large expansion and remodeling project which has provided the space to display a wide variety of artifacts and other interesting items in immersive diorama settings. Great care and attention to detail were used in the redesign of the museum and the staff continues to rotate different items into the displays.

This commitment to improve the museum and keep it fresh is paying dividends. The museum experienced a record attendance of 5,417 people of all ages during the month of February alone and is now positioned to attract a larger number of visitors in the future.

With these three wonderful destinations, Edinburg is uniquely able to attract visitors of all ages and backgrounds. More importantly, our own citizens are encouraged to take advantage of these treasures themselves to enhance their quality of life in Edinburg.

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Edwar ds Abstr act and T itle Co. Announces New Services Diana S. Kaufold, Vice President and Branch Manager of the Edinburg Branch office is pleased to announce that Edwards Abstract and Title Co. is offering additional products and services.

Keeping pace with the rapid changes in the technology industry and to address the needs of clients, the title insurance company has made an investment in equipment and resources. The upgrades have allowed Edwards Abstract and Title Co. to introduce SureClose transaction management system in 2004, Order Center in 2005 and E-Recording and Property Info in 2006.

SureClose allows buyers and sellers of residential and commercial properties the ability to view the status of closings 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Since its implementation in 2004, SureClose has become a great resource for all involved in the closing process such as realtors, lenders, attorneys, buyers and sellers.

Order Center offers the convenience of posting orders online via the Edwards’ website 24 hours a day.

“Edwards Abstract and Title Company utilizes the latest technology to enhance the closing experience of those who choose to do business with us.” stated Byron Jay Lewis, President. “This is all based on our commitment to our customers and the foundation of our company,” he added.

Property Info provides demographics and research on real estate property, including information such as ownership, assessed value, property characteristics, school districts in the surrounding area, comparable properties in the vicinity and much more.

The title insurance company recently announced the addition of its latest service, E-Recording. Partnering with the Hidalgo County Clerk’s office, E-Recording allows many benefits to the submitter such as same day electronic recording of real estate documents, reduction in travel costs to and from the County Clerk’s office, faster policy generation, reduces “gap” risk, electronic funds transfer and the ability to submit documents

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Pictured are: (sitting) Nancy Lemke, Sr. Escrow Assistant; Diana S. Kaufold; Norma Cano, Escrow Officer; Letty Rodriguez, Sr. Escrow Assistant. (standing) Erica Rios, Receptionist/Escrow Assistant; Dolly Villarreal, Receptionist/Escrow Assistant; Patty Maldonado, Escrow Assistant; Alma Rodriguez, Escrow Assistant and Geena Calvillo, Escrow Assistant/Accounting Assistant. Not pictured is Janelle Keiser, Escrow Assistant.

anytime during the day. The Edwards Edinburg Escrow Team is currently serving as the beta site and will advise others on the Edwards Team regarding training and other issues pertaining to E-Recording.

“The Edwards Edinburg Escrow Team is ready to serve local realtors, lenders, real estate attorneys and others in the real estate market. I am very proud of my staff and their ability to serve the escrow and closing transaction needs of the local community. I want to express our appreciation for the continued loyalty of our clients,” stated Diana S. Kaufold.

Edwards Abstract and Title Co. was founded in 1880 and has five branch offices located in McAllen, Sharyland Plantation, Mission, Weslaco with their headquarters in Edinburg at 208 W. Cano St. For more information on products and services visit their website at www.edwards-titleco.com.

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Recent Events Winter Te xan Edinbur g On Wheels The Edinburg Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce the success of “Edinburg on Wheels” a fun outdoor event promoting safety, health and our beautiful city’s hike & bike trails. The ride took place on Saturday, March 11, 2006 at 9:00 am. The length of the ride was approximately 6 miles and free health screenings were generously provided prior to the event

by South Texas Health System.

South Texas Health System checking Blood Pressures

Riding through Edinburg.

Getting ready to take off.

Trio Chamber Social Mixer The Trio Chamber Social Mixer took place at the Cimarron Country Club located on 1200 South Shary Road in Mission, Texas on Wednesday, March 8, 2006 where the Cimarron unveiled a new banquet room.

Business owners and Chambers of Commerce from Mission, McAllen & Edinburg enjoyed the evening with cocktails and appetizers and participated in a joint ribbon cutting.

April 2006

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Thank You Winter Te xans The Edinburg Hasta La Vista Pachanga was a complete success. On Thursday, February 23rd, Spaghetti was served up to over 500 people as staff and volunteers mixed up gallons of Border Butter Milk! Dave Williams was a hit with the Winter Texans as they danced and enjoyed music throughout dinner. This was one of the largest attended Winter Texan events, and thanks to Echo Hotel & Conference Center, and Valdez Meat Market & Catering, our visitors went home full and happy!

The Edinburg Chamber of Commerce recognizes that Winter Texans are vital to our community and economic rise; they support our local eateries, shops and busi-

nesses. Their seasonal stay assists in making Edinburg a preferred place for visitors to vacation year ‘round.

Letty Martinez, President at the Edinburg Chamber of Commerce feels that it is important to show appreciation to our Winter Texan Visitors. She says that events like this help keep the winter visitors happy. “Showing appreciation to our Winter Texan visitors is something that we see as important. Our city looks forward to their yearly visit, and in return, we want to do the best to ensure that they look forward to visiting us on an annual basis.”

Living it up...

Pachanga S t yl e!

Photo highlights from the Edinburg Hasta La Vista Pachanga.

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Edinburg Chamber Calendar of Events April E d i n bu rg To d ay Breakfa s t Date: 4/19/06 • Time: 6:30 am Location: Echo Hotel E d i n bu r g C h a m b e r o f C o m m e rc e B o a r d M e e t i n g Date: 4/24/06 • Time: 12:00 p.m.

Location: Edinburg Chamber of Commerce

May E d i n bu rg Nat u re Photogr a p hy Festival Date: 5/3/06 – 5/7/06 • Time: TBA Location: Edinburg, TX. A n nu a l C h a m b e r C o rp o ra te Classic Golf To u rn a m e n t Date: 5/25/06 • Time: 12 noon Location: Los Lagos E d i n bu r g C h a m b e r o f C o m m e rc e B o a r d M e e t i n g Date: 5/29/06 • Time: 12:00 p.m.

Location: Edinburg Chamber of Commerce

June E d i n bu r g C h a m b e r o f C o m m e rc e B o a r d M e e t i n g Date: 6/26/06 • Time: 12:00 p.m.

Location: Edinburg Chamber of Commerce

July Texas Cook’em Date: 7/1/06 • Time: TBA Location: Edinburg Municipal Park E d i n bu r g C h a m b e r o f C o m m e rc e B o a r d M e e t i n g Date: 7/31/06 • Time: 12:00 p.m.

Location: Edinburg Chamber of Commerce

Edinburg Economic Development Corporation: M o re t h a n Ju s t a F u n d i n g R e s o u rce By: Ramiro Garza, Jr. Often times the EEDC is looked upon as solely a resource for project funding for businesses, however, this not always the case. We have an abundance of information readily available for both new and old businesses alike. Our office normally fields an array of questions stemming from demographic information to available land and building sites. The EEDC staff works closely with the City of Edinburg Planning and Zoning Department and the University of Texas-Pan American to obtain up-todate information such as City Subdivision Maps and demographic information. Aerial maps, traffic counts, and retail studies, as well as, technological assistance are also offered to the public. Online services at www.edinburgedc.com are available with a list of local and State programs, available land and building information, Major Employers, industrial park information, and a Community Profile for the City. The EEDC also acts as a liaison to help businesses facilitate the Texas Enterprise Zone Program application in conjunction with the City and the University. This State program offers incentives such as sales and use tax refunds.

The EEDC staff strives to provide these services to enhance the level of business activity and growth within the City. Our bottom line goal is to increase job growth and broaden our tax base. With these expanded resource tools provided, the future of the City can only be prosperous.

M o r e to come in 2006 Meetings, Seminars, Edinburg Today Breakfasts, Power Punch @ Lunch, and more Ribbon Cuttings.

Please call 956-383-4974 for more information or visit www.edinburg.com.

April 2006

19

VIP Members AEP Texas Central Company

H.E.B. #2

Roberts Chevrolet

Azteca Milling L.P

Hibernia National Bank

Royston, Rayzor, Vickery

Best Western - Edinburg Inn & Suites

Inland Paperboard and Packaging Inc.

& Williams, LLP

Clark Chevrolet

Inter National Bank

J.E. Saenz & Associates, Inc.

D &F Industries

International Bank of Commerce

South Texas Vo-Tech Institute

Echo Hotel and Conference Center

International Paper Company

South Texas Health System

Edinburg C.I.S.D

J. E. Saenz & Associates

Staples #1037

Edinburg Industrial Foundation Inc.

JAR Development, LP.

Texas State Bank

Edwards Abstract and Title Co.

Kolder Inc.

University of Texas Pan American

Estrada Hinojosa & Company Inc.

L&G Concrete Construction Inc.

Valdez Meats & Catering

Exquisita Tortillas, Inc.

Lone Star National Bank

Wal-Mart

First National Bank

Magic Valley Electric Co-op.

Whataburger

Gateway Printing & Office Supply

Memorial Funeral Home

H.E.B.

Progressive Telecommunications

BULK RATE U. S. POSTAGE

PAID P.O. Box 85/602 W. University Drive Edinburg, TX 78540 956-383-4974 www.edinburg.com

Edinburg, TX 78539 Permit No. 58

DepotExpress is a bi-monthly publication of the Edinburg Chamber of Commerce. All images, material, and editorial content is the sole property of the Edinburg Chamber of Commerce. Š 2006