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The Chamber News Magazine

It’s Fiesta Time!

February 23 - 26

WHAT’S ON BOARD: 2006 Edinburg FIESTA Info.

Night of Lights Recap, Banquet & Casino Night, Ribbon Cuttings, VIP Members & 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

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 FIESTA 2006 ...............................................p. 4 Annual Banquet & Casino Night .................p. 6 Edinburg Today Breakfast ...........................p. 8 Winter Texan Expo ......................................p. 9 Ribbon Cuttings.........................................p. 10 5th Annual Night of Lights.........................p. 12 The Future Looks Bright for Edinburg.......p. 13 Winter Texan Hasta La Vista Pachanga ...p. 14 Calendar of Events ...................................p. 15

Letter from the Chairman

Drive, Determination & Diligence Your current chamber Board of Directors and staff have been busy since 4th quarter of 2005 preparing for the upcoming year. During the October planning session each committee presented a plan of action and method of execution. It is only with their drive, determination and diligence that will we will together as a team succeed in 2006.

Volunteerism is fundamental to the chambers philosophy to success. Our elected volunteers form the Board of Directors. It is through their commitment of service that helps mold future commerce growth and host community events.

Your Board is sensitive to the needs and concerns of the community at large and our membership while fulfilling their responsibilities as a Director. Those responsibilities include a commitment and support from their place of employment, taking time away from their job to serve our community. Leading by example, is also a way to teach good stewardship to our children by giving back to our community.

Jaime A. Rodriguez

As a member, you may volunteer time and energies to reap benefits derived from serving your chamber. As a volunteer, you will meet new people and develop both social and professional contacts. The chamber also provides quality educational opportunities dealing with a multitude of topics that may be applied to many environments. The primary benefit is the personal satisfaction that is derived from knowing that they are contributing to the success of our chamber and to the well being of fellow members.

Together, your Board of Directors and members will volunteer their time and energies to the 2006 year, a year earmarking change and growth. On behalf of the Board, our duties, responsibilities and roles have insured our commitment to the thriving city of Edinburg. Our drive is to serve; our determination is to reach goals set forth and focus on implementation. It’s all about making a difference in our community, working together and reaping the rewards that come with success. Our next scheduled event is Fiesta Edinburg, February 24th -26th.

For additional information on volunteering in upcoming events contact Evana Vleck, Director of Marketing & Special Events at 956-383-4974.

JAR Development January 2006

Jaime A. Rodriguez Owner

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Fiesta 2006!

Mardi Gras The Edinburg Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce that it is in final preparation for its 38th annual Fiesta Edinburg which will run from Thursday, February 23rd through Sunday, February 26th.

This event represents a celebration of community spirit and unity and includes activities and events for the whole family. The Chamber staff and the Fiesta committee members have been eagerly organizing this year’s activities and attractions. The traditional parade will start at 10:00 a.m. and run from the Hidalgo County Courthouse parking lot to the Edinburg Professional Baseball Stadium down Sugar Road.

The theme of this year’s parade is Mardi Gras as an expression of our support and encouragement for the citizens of the vibrant city of New Orleans.

After the parade, everyone is invited to the Edinburg Municipal Park which is located on 714 Raul Longoria. There will be colorful and exciting carnival rides and games for kids of all ages, engaging live entertainment, music, food and drink booths, as well as a car show at the park on Saturday. A nominal charge of $1 per person will be charged on Friday and Saturday to help defray the costs of the entertainment and attractions. This year’s event will also include the City of Edinburg’s Annual 5k Run.

Other community organizations schedule major events during the month of February to help round out the month of Fiesta. The Rotary Club of Edinburg will hold its 4th annual Cajun Fest Celebration on Saturday, February 11th at 6 p.m. There will be plenty of savory Cajun dishes. Live music as well as black board and live auction items. Tickets are $75 per person and can be purchased from any Edinburg Rotarian. The Edinburg Kiwanis Club will hold its annual Pancake Breakfast at the Echo Hotel in Edinburg.

The Edinburg Chamber of Commerce is a nonprofit organization that works hand in hand with the City of Edinburg, the County of Hidalgo, the University of Texas-Pan American, and various private and charitable organizations. The Chamber works to

Fiesta Edinburg has something for everyone. It’s fun for all ages!

des!

Fun Ri

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help create an attractive climate for business, the community, local visitors and tourists from around the world. Fiesta Edinburg is just another reason as to why Edinburg has the proud distinction of being a 3 time “All American City.”

Letty Martinez, President of the Edinburg Chamber of Commerce says that the Chamber is looking forward to giving the community something to embrace.

“We’re excited to offer families something fun and affordable and are honored to be able to continue this annual tradition. This year we are only charging a $1 entrance fee on Friday and Saturday to help defray the cost of the entertainment and attractions. Our committee continues to work hard to ensure that each year’s event is bigger and better than its forerunner and we hope to see a lot of people having a great time.”

usic!

Live M

2006 Fiesta Committee

For more information on Fiesta, or the Edinburg Chamber of Commerce, please call 956-383-4974.

Fiesta Edinburg is currently seeking sponsors; if you or your business is interested in being a part of this growing celebration, please contact Evana Vleck at the Edinburg Chamber of Commerce.

Pictured from left to right front row: Letty Martinez, Jessica Salinas, Nadia Valdez, second row: Sam Lopez, Evana Vleck, Lee Castro, Linda Morales, Darcy Kelly, Dina Gamboa, Myra Garza, Cris Torres, Cris Lopez, back row: Ramiro Moreno, Rick Pulido & Jaime A. Rodriguez.

Tickets only

$1

Join the Fun!

Fiesta

2006

January 2006

Feb. 23-26 Live Music Games and Rides Food & Drink Booths Car Show Parade begins at 10:00 Saturday, February 25th 5

Annual Banquet & Casino Night On Saturday, November 5th, Chamber held its Annual Banquet and first ever Casino Night at the Edinburg Auditorium. The event was very successful and well attended. This event is held each year to honor the accomplishments of the Chamber's outgoing Chairman, Chris Smolik, (Edinburg Regional Medical Center)and to recognize the incoming Chairman, Jaime A. Rodriguez (J.A.R. Development, LP). Chris Smolik acknowledged the support of the Chamber staff, his Executive Committee, the board members and other volunteers who made this year a success on several fronts. He paid a special tribute to the City of Edinburg and specifically the Mayor and Council members for their increased financial support for the Chamber's general operation.

With their support, proceeds from events like this will no longer be necessary for the general operational budget of the Chamber and can, instead, be dedicated to providing quality programming and services to the Chamber's membership.

The Casino theme was a hit with all of the attendees.

There were many door prizes throughout the evening.

Live entertainment including an Elvis Impersonator and showgirls were provided by Nadia Valdez from All That Dance as well as a deejay on hand to keep the mood festive. The Edinburg Auditorium was converted into a Las Vegas-style casino complete with table games, slot machines and dealers. Participants converted their "winnings" to tickets for chances to win prizes at the end of the evening's affair. Some of the prizes included were a trip for two to Las Vegas, tickets to a Houston Texans football game, and floor seats at a San Antonio Spurs Basketball game.

Letty Martinez, Chamber President feels that the Banquet was a good way for the Chamber to illustrate its gratitude for all of the commitment shown day in and day out by the chairmen who dedicate their time to see achievement in the City of Edinburg as well as the board, the volunteers and the staff.

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"This is a good opportunity for us to show appreciation for all of the dedicated work and energy that our present and incoming chairmen have done to ensure the continuing success of the Edinburg Chamber as well as local businesses." The chairman's main responsibility is to provide a vision for the Chamber with the assistance of the board so that businesses will continue to thrive in Edinburg. In addition, the Chairman also oversees other events throughout the year which serve to enhance the quality of life for the citizens in general as well as visitors from around the area or around the globe. Letty further stated, "I feel that our past and present Chairmen have proven their dedication to the Chamber with the level of enthusiasm and outstanding leadership that they have brought to their positions."

Giveaway Sponsors First National Bank • Apple Tree Residential Appraising Bistro M • G&S Glass • Santiago Gonzalez-CPA Profiles Hair Studio • Liberty EMS Memorial Funeral Home • Paulina Solis/Mary Kay Cornerstone Fitness Center • All Valley Pools Rapid Mortgage Company Inc. • DotCom Technologies All That Dance • Michelle’s Jewelry Adobe Grill Restaurant • Willie B’s BBQ Chaps Bar & Grill • Bob Starks Meat Market Attitudes Beauty Boutique • Super Carnes Asadas Solis Whataburger • Ciro’s Mexican Cuisine Staples • Boots N’ Jeans • Texas Star Writers Group Puretap Water System Texas Capital Financial Group Stewart Title Guaranty Company Radisson at South Padre Island The Garden Room Café and Bakery Elva Jackson Garza/E&F Enterprises San Antonio College of Medical & Dental Assistants Royston, Rayzor, Vickery & Williams, LLP-Attorneys at Law

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We would like to thank the following fo r t h e i r g e n e rous time , d o n a tions, a n d s p o n s o r s h i p s : Edinburg Chamber of Commerce Executive Officers: Jaime A. Rodriguez, Chairman / JAR Development, LP Mark Magee, Chair-Elect / First National Bank Chris Smolik, Immediate Past Chair / Edbg. Regional Medical Center Bran Disque, Treasurer / Texas State Bank Ramiro Garza, Vice Chairman / Edinburg Economic Development Corp.

Cris Torres, Vice Chairman / Inter National Bank Elva Jackson Garza, Vice Chairman / Edwards Abstract and Title Co. Noe Valdez, Vice Chairman / Valdez Meats & Catering Sal Robles, Vice Chairman / Liberty EMS Directors: Cynthia Bocanegra, Chaps Bar & Grill Lee Castro, Memorial Funeral Home Johnny Garcia, Ceballos Diaz Funeral Home Gary L. Henrichson, Law Office of Gary L. Henrichson Darcy Kelly, Peter Piper Pizza Fred L. Kurth, Melden & Hunt, Inc. Johnny Rodriguez, Austin Personnel Services Jessica Salinas, VBOC @ UTPA Margie Santos, International Bank of Commerce Ex-Officio’s: 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

AC E Edwards Abstract and Title Co. First National Bank JAR Development, L.P. Melden & Hunt, Inc. Edinburg Regional Medical Center Texas State Bank Wiggles Children’s Rehab All That Dance Feldmans Liquor KING Austin Personnel Services Memorial Funeral Home Q UEEN Eco Cleaners International Bank of Commerce Lone Star National Bank Valley Insurance Services Edinburg Economic Development Corp.

J AC K Casita Storage Ltd. Chap’s Bar and Grill Fresno Construction Los Venados Noe Garza Engineers McAllen National Bank

Annual Banquet / Casino Night Committee Dalia Arce ..........................................Inter National Bank Cynthia Bocanegra ..............................Chap’s Bar & Grill Lee Castro ..................................Memorial Funeral Home David Rubio ...............................Memorial Funeral Home Annette M. Espinoza....................JAR Development, L.P. Elva Jackson Garza .........Edwards Abstract and Title Co. Jaime A. Rodriguez ......................JAR Development, L.P. Melissa Rodriguez ...................Austin Personnel Services Jessica Salinas ...........................................VBOC@UTPA Paulina Solis...........................................Texas State Bank Cris Torres..........................................Inter National Bank Rosanna Ferguson ..........................................Planet Pizza Nadia Valdez .............................................All That Dance January 2006

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Edinburg Today Breakfast The Edinburg Today Breakfast (ETB) continues to thrive and subsist up to its shining reputation. Food, door prizes, and business contacts are what make the Breakfast an exciting place to be! First National Bank was the November Breakfast sponsor. Oscar Garza, County Commissioner was the the emcee for the ETB, and as always did a stellar job with the announcements. All door prizes were courtesy of First National Bank.

The Breakfast is a vast opportunity for Sponsors to talk about their business, market and to create a networking camaraderie with other local businesses and members in the community. The Edinburg Today Breakfast is open to the public, and gives community and chamber members the opportunity to learn more about the Edinburg Chamber of Commerce, and to find out more about local happenings within the city of Edinburg. There are many benefits in becoming an Edinburg Today Breakfast sponsor.

Mark R. Magee, Branch President for First National Bank South, and ChairmanElect for the Edinburg Chamber of Commerce says that The Edinburg Today Breakfast provided a wonderful opportunity for First National Bank to share their Mayor Richard Garcia speaking to plans for the development of their new corporate campus.

Edinburg Today Breakfast attendees.

“This project will be located on the southeast corner of Tenth Street and University and will be further bordered

by Monmack and Sprague. The 110 acre site will be enhanced by a 30 acre lake which will be surrounded by the bank's facilities as well as retail/office space, an executive suites hotel, a convention facility, a dining club, high-end townhouses, an amphitheater and a botanical garden and nature conservatory. All non-bank facilities will be owned by a non-bank investment entity.”

Mark Magee also states that First National Bank has always been a strong supporter of the Chamber of Commerce and the City. “Edinburg holds a special place in our hearts and the directors, management and employees are thrilled that we will be able to build this world-class facility in our home town. This will be a significant direct investment in Edinburg by the bank and we are certain that this project will be a symbol of pride for all Edinburg residents as well as a catalyst to attract other investment in the immediate area and other parts of the city.”

Please contact the Edinburg Chamber on further details of becoming a Breakfast Sponsor.

Nove m b e r ’s B re a k f a s t s p o n s o re d b y...

Edinburg Today Breakfast Benefits: 1. Sponsor will be allotted 15 minutes to make a presentation about their business 2. Sponsor’s logo will be placed on: a. Invitational flyer that is distributed to over 600 members b. Facsimile flyer that is broadcasted to over 600 members 3. Sponsor’s logo will be placed on the program to be distributed the morning of the event.

4. Sponsor will be recognized in publicity submitted by the Chamber to the media via press release.

5. Sponsor will be recognized in the Chamber newsletter which is distributed to the membership and to the general public.

6. Sponsor will be allowed to distribute brochures, door prizes and other promotional materials to promote their business at the Edinburg Today Breakfast.

7. Sponsor will receive four complimentary admissions to the Edinburg Today Breakfast.

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Winter Texan Expo On November 10th, the Chamber hosted its "Winter Texan Welcome" at the Edinburg Activity Center.

Each year, the Chamber hosts a Winter Texan Appreciation event at the end of the tourist season. This year was the first time that the Chamber hosted an event at the beginning of the season as well. There were well over 200 people in attendance for this year’s event and they were all looking forward to their stay in the Edinburg area. The participants were treated to a dee-jay as well as a delightful presentation of traditional folklorico dances from local elementary schools. And, our emcees, Chamber board members Sal Robles (Liberty EMS) and Lee Castro (Memorial Funeral Home) had everyone dancing before the event was over.

Winter Texans, affectionately called, "Snow Birds", flock to the Valley each year to take advantage of the temperate climate, the affordable shopping, local culture and food, eco-tourism, and the companionship of other retirees. Their arrival provides a significant impact to the local economy and the Chamber's function was designed to show our gratitude for their patronage of our local businesses.

In conjunction with the Winter Texan Welcome, the Chamber organized a business expo to make the event not only fun, but also informative. Representatives from local businesses were on hand to share information with the new arrivals and to welcome them back home. This was the first time that a business expo was held during this event and the Chamber provided this venue as a service to its membership base as an opportunity to offer their goods and services to the winter visitors at the beginning of the season.

Some of the Chamber’s upcoming Winter Events are Winter Texas Appreciation on Thursday, February 23 at the Edinburg Winter Texans participated in Line Dancing Activity Center and led by Barbie from the UPS store and Sal Edinburg on Wheels Robles from Liberty EMS.

January 2006

bike ride on Saturday, March 4, from 9:00-11:00 am.

Interested participants should contact Cristal De Los Santos, Director of Tourism at 956-383-4974. The World Birding Center, the Museum of South Texas History and the Valley Symphony Orchestra also have offerings dedicated to the winter visitors during the season.

The Edinburg Chamber of Commerce would like to thank the following businesses for making this an enjoyable event: Monte Cristo Golf and Country Club Fuller Brush Company IBC The Edinburg Review Obees Soup, Salad & Subs Planet Pizza First National Bank Holt Cat Edinburg Nursing & Rehab Waddell & Reed Elsa State Bank & Trust Co. Food Bank of the Rio Grande Valley, Inc. Four Paws Animal Hospital The UPS Store Edward Jones Mary Kay (Susie Salinas) Memorial Funeral Home Schlotzkys Deli Family Home Health Services

Winter Texans lining up for Businesses were invited to be a part of the Winter Texan Expo which gave visiSloppy Joes tors a chance to learn more about Edinburg’s thriving economy

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Ribbon Cuttings

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Mili Group of Texas October 8, 2005 at the business located on 2516 W. Freddy Gonzalez, 381-6770.

Kid-N Around November 3, 2005 at the business located on 3133 W. Alberta, 221-3701.

South Texas Gastroenterology Associates, P.A. December 2, 2005 at the business located on 5525 Doctors Drive, 956-618-7055.

Delia’s December 7, 2005 at the business located on 3012 N Closner, 380-2700.

Lone Star National Mortgage Company December 1, 2005 at the business located on 217 W. Cano, 383-9965.

Superior Storage November 15, 2005 at the business located on 3102 McColl, 383-5474.

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Ribbon Cutting & Policy Groundbreaking Ceremony y are: Chamber members if the to ed fer of be ll wi gs kin ound brea 1. Ribbon cutting and gr a a. New business in the are nership b. Business under new ow ocated c. Business which has rel dergone renovation d. Business which has un 15th, etc.) niversary (1st, 5th, 10th, e. Celebrating a major an e in order two week's advance notic st lea at es uir req e erc ber of Comm ursdays are most 2. The Edinburg Cham events. Tuesdays and Th g kin ea br nd ou gr or or ng tti t recommended due to po no to set a date for ribbon cu are s nd ke ee W . p.m or 4:00/5:00 st). successful at 10:00 a.m. idered at member's reque ns co be ll wi ut (b e nc da volunteer atten mmittees, ssador and Red Coat Co ba Am s, tor rec Di of ard ll invite Bo special 3. The Chamber staff wi mber would like to print me the If e. tic no fax a cost. via r those listed above at no Mayor and City Council fo els lab ng ili ma the will provide invitations, the Chamber ible for postage.

Member will be respons er calls prior to event.

4. Staff will do remind a volunteer-based ntee attendance, as it is ara gu ot nn ca e erc mm 5. The Chamber of Co organization. ovels for ribbon, scissors and/or sh r, he ap gr oto ph ide ov pr erce will 6. The Chamber of Comm event. the wsletter, which is sent to ne r be am ch the of s pie ed in co s, etc.

7. A photo will be featur , resturaunts, banks, hotel es fic of c bli pu in ted bu membership and distri n is ere business name or sig wh s es sin bu the of ior ere en in the front exter front of their business wh in a 8. Photos are usually tak are f of ck blo to ed is encourag ide as well. displayed. The member Photos may be taken ins d. ye pla dis is n sig or business name atives, their choice and invite rel of ts en hm res ref ide ov uraged to pr 9. The member is enco s associates. friends and other busines

January 2006

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5th Annual

Night of Lights The Edinburg Chamber of Commerce, the City of Edinburg, the Economic Development Corporation and the University of Texas, Pan American (UTPA) wish to thank all of the participants, students, vendors and volunteers who helped to make the 5th Annual Night of Lights a complete success. The event was held on Saturday, December 3, and began with the traditional parade which proceeded from the County Court House along University to the Edinburg Professional Baseball Stadium. Children and adults lined up along University to watch the thirty-five parade entrants as they cheerfully marched, danced or rode their way to the stadium. First place in the commercial float decoration contest was awarded to Vicki Roy Home Health and second place went to Best Care Physical Therapy. The first place award for school entries went to De Zavala Elementary with second place awarded to Dr. Thomas Esparza Elementary while John F. Kennedy received third place.

All participants put in long hours in preparation for this parade and their hard work was clearly evident by the number of twinkling lights on their floats.

Following the parade everyone gathered in the UTPA Quad where they were treated to tasty food, live music and dance performances by local school groups and organizations as well as kiddie rides and a surprise visit by the big man himself, Santa Claus! The jolly old elf greeted children of all ages and handed out over 500 candy bags to the eager children.

To top off the evening's entertainment, this year's event featured a laser light show. A variety of images came to life in synchronization to a musical montage while other lasers provided an ethereal illumination to the entire Quad. "This is the first time the Night of Lights has hosted a laser light show", said Cristal De Los Santos, Director of Tourism at the Edinburg Chamber of Commerce. Crystal, who also serves on the Night of Lights committee, further said that "the laser light show received very positive response from the spectators and we already have ideas on how the show can be improved for next year's event."

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Letty Martinez, Chamber President, stated, "This event is one of many that the Chamber of Commerce coordinates each year as part of its dedication to help improve the quality of life for the citizens of Edinburg.

Also, the income generated by this event will help to fund programs and services for the membership of the Chamber. The success of Edinburg depends on both a vibrant business community as well as quality of life.

The Chamber, its staff, board of directors and volunteers continue to work towards improving both areas."

If you are interested in becoming actively involved in your Chamber, please contact Letty Martinez, Cristal De Los Santos or Evana Vleck at 383-4974.

In the holiday spirit!

Lining up for the parade.

Vicki Roy Home Health 1st Place, Commercial Division Depot Express

T h e F u t u r e L o o k s B r i g h t fo r E d i n b u r g

by Ramiro Garza, Jr. It is the start of a new year and Edinburg is in an excellent position to continue growing at a record pace.

In 2005, we saw unprecedented growth in all economic indicators. Sales tax activity accounted for $11.5 million for the year 2005 which grew an astounding 18.63% when compared to 2004 that had sales tax activity of $9.7 million.

There are many projects that have been announced in 2005 that will account for a large part of the activity set to take place in 2006. One of those projects involves the development of Trenton Crossroads which includes construction of 100,000 square feet of retail space that will be anchored by a theater chain that offers a unique combination of a theater and restaurant. Another project is Junior’s Supermarket set to open north of Edinburg which will have a 30,000 square foot store.

Of course, 2006 will also be the year Wal-Mart will be under construction on the southwest part of the City including an additional 50,000 square feet of retail space adjacent to the store.

In addition, we have the continuing development of the health services industry which represent an investment in Edinburg of over $180 million with the opening of a new Children’s Hospital, Behavioral Health

Center, 88 bed acute hospital, women’s and pediatric hospital, cancer treatment center, ambulatory surgical center and assisted living center.

Also, the City will be completing the construction of a 50,000 square foot building at the Edinburg International Airport that will allow for an increase in business activity. And in just a few months, the $17 million Sector Headquarters of Customs and Border Patrol will open and coordinate the work of over 1,500 members of the Border Patrol.

In addition to this activity, the City recently completed a 20 year comprehensive plan that will help the City meet the next set of challenges and opportunities for growth. These projects that have been announced do not even include others on the horizon. All this activity will serve to broaden our tax base and provide continuing employment opportunities for our residents. All in all, the future looks bright for Edinburg.

Trenton Crossroads

Children’s Hospital Under Construction

January 2006

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Winter Texan

Hasta La Vista Pachanga On Thursday, February 23, 2006 from 4:00-7:00 p.m. at the Edinburg Visitors Center, The Edinburg Chamber of Commerce will be bidding a farewell to our Winter Texan Visitors, Pachanga style.

The annual Winter Texan goodbye has been changed to a date and time that is better associated with a celebration that is Fiesta Edinburg!

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

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

The Hasta la Vista Pachanga is an event complemented by a variety of activities including live music, entertainment food and fun! Back by popular demand, Country Roland, the Winter Texan’s favorite local musician will be performing at the activity center to help make this a memorable event.

The Hasta La Vista Pachanga will kick off Fiesta Edinburg (February 23-26). We want to ensure that everyone leaves and comes back happy! Cristal De Los Santos, Director of Tourism from the Edinburg Convention & Visitors Bureau feels that it is important to show appreciation to our Winter Texan Visitors. She says that events like this help in bringing our winter guests back to Edinburg, TX. “We enjoy having the Winter Texans visit us year after year, and are excited about bringing events like this for them to enjoy, and reflect back upon.”

For more information on Fiesta Edinburg, or upcoming Winter Texan events, please call 956-3834974.

W i n t e r Tex a n C a l e n d a r o f E ve n t s : W h at : Winter Texan “Hasta La Vista Pachanga” W h e n : Thursday, February 23, 2006 from 4:00-7:00 p.m.

W h e re: The Edinburg Activity Center

Photo highlights from previous Chamber events.

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W h at : Edinburg on Wheels W h e n : Saturday, March 11, 2006 W h e re: TBA

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2006 Calendar of Events J a nu a ry-----------------------------------------------Ribbon Cutting • 1/20/06 • 10:30 a.m.

Location: Six Hundred Plus GYMSPA 2200 Cornerstone Blvd.

Edinburg, TX

Feb ru a ry (continued)------------------------------Winter Texan Appreciation Hasta La Vista Pachanga 2/23/06 • 4:00-7:00 p.m.

Location: Edinburg Activity Center

Ribbon Cutting • 1/26/06 • 5:00-6:30 p.m.

Location: Eco Cleaners 2117 E. University Edinburg, TX

Heart of America Carnival 2/23/06 - 2/26/06 Location: Edinburg Municipal Park

M ay----------------------------------------------------Edinburg Nature Photography Festival 5/3/06 - 5/7/06 • Time: TBA Location: Edinburg, TX.

Fiesta Edinburg 2/24/06 - 2/26/06 Location: Edinburg Municipal Park

Edinburg Chamber of Commerce Board Meeting 5/29/06 • 12:00 p.m.

Location: Edinburg Chamber of Commerce

Fiesta Edinburg Parade 2/25/06 • 10:00 a.m.

Location: W. University Drive

J u n e - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Edinburg Chamber of Commerce Board Meeting 6/26/06 • 12:00 p.m.

Location: Edinburg Chamber of Commerce

Ribbon Cutting • 1/26/06 • 9:30 a.m.

Location: Chili’s Bar & Grill 2303 W. University Edinburg, TX. 78540 Edinburg Chamber of Commerce Board Meeting 1/30/06 • 12:00 p.m.

Location: Edinburg Chamber of Commerce Feb ru a ry----------------------------------------------Edinburg Breakfast • 2/1/06 • 6:30 a.m.

Location: Echo Hotel Leadership Edinburg Steering Committee 2/8/06 • 12:00 p.m.

Location: Edinburg Chamber of Commerce Ribbon Cutting • 2/20/06 • 9:30 am Location: Rio Grande Valley Bible Institute 60th Anniversary

Edinburg Chamber of Commerce Board Meeting 2/27/06 • 12:00 p.m.

Location: Edinburg Chamber of Commerce M a rch-------------------------------------------------Edinburg On Wheels • 3/4/06 • 9:00 a.m.

Location: South Texas Health System Edinburg Chamber of Commerce Board Meeting 3/27/06 • 12:00 p.m.

Location: Edinburg Chamber of Commerce

www.edinbu rg.com

Ap ril---------------------------------------------------Edinburg Chamber of Commerce Board Meeting 4/24/06 • 12:00 p.m.

Location: Edinburg Chamber of Commerce

J uly----------------------------------------------------Texas Cook’em • 7/1/06 & 7/2/06 • Time: TBA Location: Edinburg Municipal Park Edinburg Chamber of Commerce Board Meeting 7/31/06 • 12:00 p.m.

Location: Edinburg Chamber of Commerce M o r e to come in 2006…

Meetings, Seminars, Golf Tournament, Edinburg Today Breakfasts, Power Punch @ Lunch, and more Ribbon Cuttings.

Please call 956-383-4974 for more information.

Wouldn’t you like to be in this magazine?

To advertise or become a member, call (956) 383-4974 Ask for rates and special members only discounts.

January 2006

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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.

Jaime A. Rodriguez Development Co.

Texas State Bank

Edwards Abstract and Title Co.

Kolder Inc.

Tropical Texas MHMR

Estrada Hinojosa & Company Inc.

L&G Concrete Construction Inc.

University of Texas Pan American

Exquisita Tortillas, Inc.

Lone Star National Bank

Valdez Meats & Catering

First National Bank

Magic Valley Electric Co-op.

Wal-Mart

Gateway Printing & Office Supply

Memorial Funeral Home

Whataburger

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