www.edinburg.com
P.O. Box 85 602 W. University Edinburg, TX 78540 Phone (956) 383-4974 Fax (956) 383-6942
EXECUTIVE OFFICERS CHAIRMAN Mark Magee • First National Bank
CHAIR - ELECT Cris Torres • Inter National Bank
IMMEDIATE PAST CHAIR Jaime Rodriguez • JAR Development, LP
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 Cynthia Bocanegra • Chaps Bar & Grill Lee Castro • Memorial Funeral Home
June/July 2007
Vision Statement 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.
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.
Core 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!
DIRECTORS Gary L. Henrichson Darcy Kelly Maggie Kent Fred L. Kurth Sal Robles Johnny Rodriguez J. P. English Mike Govind Gene Espinoza
Law Office of Gary L. Henrichson Peter Piper Pizza General Dentistry Centers Melden & Hunt, Inc. American Medical Training Institute Austin Personnel Services Amigo Power Equipment Best Western, Edinburg Inn & Suites Edinburg City Council
STAFF Letty Martinez, President Evana Vleck, Director of Marketing & Special Events Imelda Rodriguez, Administrative/Tourism Assistant Frank Lara, Director of Membership
CONTENTS Letter from Chairman ..........................................................3 WorkFORCE Solutions .........................................................5 I Shop Edinburg................................................................6-7 2nd Annual Texas Cook’em .................................................8 Museum of South Texas History ..........................................9 Alamo Draft House..............................................................9 Ribbon Cuttings & Policy..............................................10-11 Mayor’s Prayer Breakfast...................................................12 Membership Roundup .......................................................13 Edinburg Welcomes Published Authors .............................14 Chamber Champion of the Month.....................................14 JCPenney Coming to Edinburg ..........................................15 Leadership Edinburg..........................................................16 Advertising Options...........................................................16 Feature Businesses of the Month ......................................17 Chamber Champions Celebrate Hollywood.......................18 Cris Torres Nominated Chair-Elect .....................................18 EEDC Economic Update.....................................................19 VIP Members .......................................................Back Cover
Letter from the Chairman Greetings!
higher tax revenues to be able to provide the infrastructure improvements to manage and sustain this growth. The recently-opened Dustin Sekula Memorial Library, the police station and the new city hall are examples of the City’s efforts in this regard.
Wow! Look at all of the construction going on in Edinburg! I had the opportunity to give a tour of the area to some friends of mine who were visiting from out of town, one of which had not been down here since we graduated high school in…. ….well, a long time ago. He was amazed at the amount of construction in Edinburg, McAllen and Mission. The funny thing was that we were joined by two ladies who live in McAllen who were equally or even more impressed. They apparently don’t get out much.
While these new businesses are gratefully appreciated, we also need to remember those businesses that have been here for many years, through the thick and thin of Edinburg’s economic history. One of those businesses is Edward’s Abstract & Title Company. Byron Lewis was gracious enough to give me a tour of his beautiful new building on Freddy Gonzalez, shortly before its completion. Byron told me that he was courted by folks from McAllen when they heard that he was planning on building a new facility. But, he didn’t give it one second of consideration. He told me that his home and his heart are in Edinburg. As a result, the City will benefit from the additional property value as well as the other business which are sure to be opened next to such an attractive structure.
It was abundantly clear why our “metro-plex” continues to be ranked as the third fasted growing Metropolitan Statistical Area in the nation. At every turn and down every thoroughfare, we came across major construction that had either been built within the last five years or which was in various stages of construction. And, it seemed like every vacant piece of property either had a “coming soon” or an “available” sign on it. In Edinburg alone, we have the Alamo Draft House project with its related businesses and restaurants, the Fiesta Chevrolet dealership on Expressway 281, new financial institutions looking to take root, and the Doctor’s Hospital at Renaissance, which is spreading like a culture in a Petri dish. UTPA has a huge new student wellness center under construction as well as other projects on the drawing board and First National Bank has begun development of the first phase of its Lomas y Lagos corporate headquarters at Monmack and Sprague. There are also several subdivisions under construction as well as many businesses like Lowes and Monster Car Wash that still have that newconstruction smell.
Byron is justifiably proud of his gorgeous facility and his personal art collection which adorn its walls in order to be shared with his staff and customers. But, he is equally as proud of what Edinburg means to him and what his adopted home has become. We should all share the same enthusiasm and pride that Byron exhibits. We need to stop thinking of Edinburg as the sleepy little ‘burg’ and recognize the importance and influence that Edinburg will have for the future of all of South Texas. Viva Edinburg!
All of these projects are the result of Edinburg’s continued success and growth. Each of them represents an investment in Edinburg’s future and they will depend mightily on all of us utilizing their goods and services. By so doing, the City will reap the benefit of
Mark R. Magee Chairman – Edinburg Chamber of Commerce 3
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We’re Open for Business! 3111 W. Freddy Gonzalez Drive Edinburg, Texas We’re ready to serve you! Edinburg Escrow Branch Office; Lewis, Monroe & Peña - Attorneys At Law; Edwards Title Plant and Edwards Support Teams www.edwards-titleco.com Edinburg
McAllen
Mission
Sharyland Plantation
Weslaco
3111 W. Freddy Gonzalez Edinburg, Texas 78539 (956) 383-4951 Fax (956) 383-5443
319 Nolana Ave. McAllen, Texas 78504 (956) 682-4951 Fax (956) 631-3504
2005 E. Griffin Parkway Mission, Texas 78572 (956) 583-1220 Fax (956) 583-1798
3607 Plantation Grove, Suite 103 Mission, Texas 78572 (956) 424-0273 Fax (956) 583-4409
2300 W. Pike Blvd., Suite 101 Weslaco, Texas 78596 (956) 973-9654 Fax (956) 968-7163
WorkFORCE Solutions, Inc. is the workforce development board (WDB) that serves the Rio Grande Valley counties of Hidalgo, Starr and Willacy. Our organization delivers publicly funded employment and training services through a network of partners located throughout the region. Our goal is to provide businesses, employers, job seekers, and employees with the resources needed to succeed in an ever-changing world.
disabilities. DPN is a joint initiative developed through Interagency Agreement between Department of Labor (DOL) and Social Security Administration (SSA) in 2002. This initiative is developing new/ongoing partnerships to achieve seamless, comprehensive, and integrated access to services, creating systemic change, and expanding the workforce development system’s capacity to serve customers with disabilities and businesses that employ these customers. Services available to employers and businesses as part of the DPN Initiative include:
The Office for Business Partnerships (OBP) of WorkFORCE Solutions believes that human capital is the businesses’ greatest capital. To be successful in the global market place, businesses can no longer depend solely on providing a good product. The challenge that most businesses face is to identify and retain the talent needed to stay competitive. OBP is dedicated to providing a world class employer driven workforce system that is flexible and responsive to meet this demand. Our strategy takes a consultative approach to providing innovative and customized workforce solutions to businesses with the affirmation that people make the company and that every customer is unique.
• • • • •
Information on Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Pre-Employment Inquiries and the ADA Financial Incentives for Hiring People with Disabilities Reasonable Accommodations under ADA Hiring and Retaining Individuals with Disabilities
For more information regarding DPN, contact Ms. Jayshree Bhat, Disability Program Navigator at 956683-3703.
The Office for Business Partnerships is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities; and the OBP is able to host a vast range of business activities. Whether it is a weekly sales meeting for a large group, manager’s meeting, or just a single office to conduct off site interviews, OBP has the space for you. Or maybe you need to provide some computer based training. Our computer lab comes equipped with the latest software and Internet connection. Wal-Mart, Black & Decker, Communities in Schools, Old Navy, Obra Homes, and Telemundo are few of the many employers that have utilized OBP facilities for their meeting/training needs. For further information regarding facilities and training room availability and associated fees contact Ms. Nancy Reed, Vice President for Business Partnerships or Mr. Jason Moreno, Director for Business Partnership at 956-6612913.
Auxiliary Aids and Services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities. Equal Opportunity Employer Program. Relay Texas: 1800-735-2989 (TDD) and 1-800-735-2988 (Voice) www.wfsolutions.com.
Edinburg Chamber of Commerce 2007 Calendar of Events Customer Service & Sales Seminar Texas Cook’em Edinburg Today Breakfast
Additionally, Workforce Solutions is one of 14 WDBs in Texas that received a grant to establish the Disability Program Navigator (DPN) to expand universal access to the One-Stop delivery system to job seekers with
June 27, 2007 July 6 & 7, 2007 August 8, 2007
Membership Roundup
September 20, 2007
Winter Texan Welcome
November 15, 2007
Edinburg on Wheels
November 17, 2007
Night of Lights Celebration
December 1, 2007
For more information call 383-4974. 5
The following Edinburg Businesses are part of the I Shop Edinburg campaign. If you or your business would like to be involved with the campaign, please call us, and we’ll take care of you. To pick up your FREE I Shop discount card, stop by the Edinburg Chamber of Commerce, Edinburg City Hall, the Edinburg Economic Development Corporation or call 956-383-4974 for more information on how YOU can save! Eva’s Flowers Baskets & Gifts 301 W. Schunior St. Edinburg, Tx 78541 956-381-4555 evasflowersbaskets@sbcglobal.net 10% Discount Best Western Edinburg Inn & Suites 2708 S. Bus. Hwy. 281 Edinburg, Tx 78539 956-318-0442 godevco@aol.com 10% off rack room rate Edinburg World Birding Center 714 Raul Longoria Rd. Edinburg, Tx 78539 956-381-9922 moliva@edinburgwbc.com 10% off all merchandise
Rex Motel 2207 S. Bus. 281 Edinburg, Tx 78539 956-383-5681 $3.00 off any rooms Amigo Power Equipment 304 W. Monte Cristo Edinburg, Tx 78541 956-383-6289 Jengl175@aol.com 10% off all Polaris Accessories & Echo Products La Reynera Bakery 922 W. Monte Cristo Edinburg, Tx 78541 956-380-2577 Regular 3 pieces for $1.00 Receive 4 pieces for $1.00 with I shop card
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United Rentals 1702 S. Expressway 281 Edinburg, Tx 78539 956-289-8400 cantur@ur.com 10% off any Rental Willie B’s BBQ 114 E. Loeb St . Edinburg, Tx 78539 956-318-1373 Emostar311@aol.com Spend $15 and get a Free Tea or Lemonade Motel 6 1806 S. Closner Blvd Edinburg, Tx 78539 956-383-8800 Free upgrade to king size suite
Divas Hair Studio 2350 E. Freddy Gonzalez Edinburg, Tx 78539 956-383-9700 10% off any service $1.00 off regular haircut Chaps Bar & Grill 2301 W. Sprauge Edinburg, Tx 78539 956-316-2350 Cynthia_bocanegra@excite.com 15% off regular price food Earthly Treasures 1116 S. Closner Edinburg, Tx 78539 956-386-1770 B.Gom@aol.com 10% off any item Turn the Page Scrapbooking & More 3525 W. Freddy Gonzalez Edinburg, Tx 78540 956-387-0700 Half price crop night & 10% discount on supplies Movie Corner 2346 Freddy Gonzalez Edinburg, Tx 78539 956-386-1222 3 New releases for $9.99 3 kids movies for $5.00 Edinburg Executive Inn 2006 S. Closner Edinburg, Tx 78539 956-380-6201 eeiexeinn@yahoo.com 10% off rack room rate
Coffee Zone 1108 S. McColl Edinburg, Tx 78539 956-381-5462 DMcoffeeco@aol.com 20% on all beverages Copy Express 24056- B W. University Dr. Edinburg, Tx 78541 956-318-5995 Copy-express@sbcglobal.net 15% off color copies, 15% off color poster 2 limit 10% off 500 full color business cards Oriental Café 1900 W. University Ste. 1 Edinburg, Tx 78539 956-381-1331 10% Discount anything on the Dinner Menu Only valid as business is operational Armando’s Pizza 1900 W. University Edinburg, Tx 78539 956-383-8053 Buy 16” pizza with three toppings & get 12” cheese pizza FREE Not valid with any other offer or delivery/ No credit cards Los Lagos Golf Club 1720 S. Raul Longoria Edinburg, Tx 78539 956-316-0444 10% off Pro Shop 10% off Round of Golf
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Putters Restaurant 1720 S. Raul Longoria Edinburg, Tx 78539 956-316-0444 10% off all food Ebony Hills Golf Course 300 W Palm Dr. Edinburg, Tx 78539 956-292-2144 10% off Round of Golf 10% off Pro Shop Alamo Drafthouse Cinema 2001 Trenton Road Edinburg, Tx 78539 512-797-3187 FREE popcorn or chips & salsa w/ purchase of any entrée (valid M-Th ONLY) Hesbrook Monument Company 616 East Cano Street Edinburg, Tx 78539 956-383-8597 10% discount on all monuments & FREE design work Graphic Xpress 308 North Closner Edinburg, Tx 78539 956-381-8088 FREE set up fee with any order & 10% discount on orders over $100
2nd Annual Texas Cook’em High Steaks in Edinburg For the second year in a row the city of Edinburg, the Edinburg Chamber of Commerce and the Edinburg Economic Development Corporation is giving the community a reason to celebrate the unique festivity that is Texas Cook’em: High Steaks in Edinburg sanctioned by the International Barbeque Cookers Association. Texas Cook’em is a notable July 4th cook off featuring steak, pork ribs, chicken & brisket, and will take place on Friday July 6th and Saturday July 7th at the Edinburg Municipal Park located on 714 Raul Longoria. Cook’em is a free family event, and all are encouraged to spend the day at the park on a picnic blanket, or folding chairs enjoying fresh award winning barbeque beneath the tropical climate of Edinburg.
Not only will cooks be competing for the best of the best, but they will also be selling their award winning tasty barbeque right from their cooking booths. Again, Cook’em strives to bring the Rio Grande Valley a unique twist to the quality of life right here in Edinburg, Texas and we are the first cook off in the Rio Grande Valley to offer the opportunity for guests to take a taste fresh from the cook’s barbeque pits. Known for creating a great cook’s atmosphere, Texas Cook’em has introduced a Very Important Party (VIP) event for Friday, July 6th at the Edinburg Municipal Park. The VIP will be an exciting opportunity for all registered cooks and selected sponsors of the event. Each cooking team is invited to host a cooking site party from 8 pm to midnight. The party can be a simple gathering of family and friends or it can be a full-fledged corporate party. It can be a private party of open to anybody. No matter what cooks or sponsors decide, everyone is automatically entered for a chance to win the 2007 Very Important Party banner and allotted bragging rights.
There will be new additions to Texas Cook’em including a watermelon seed spitting contest and other activities plus all the enjoyment you’d find at a traditional outdoor 4th of July family picnic, including live entertainment, and you can’t beat that. This year Texas Cook’em will feature live performances by John Conlee, who sang the hit song “Rose Colored Glasses” plus the valley’s own Texas Heat.
All interested applicants must fill out a registration form prior to the event. Registration fees are $75 per category or $200 for all four categories that include steak, chicken, pork ribs and brisket. Over $15,000 in prize money will be awarded. Texas Cook’em is also accepting vendors and judges; if you enjoy eating and are excited to be part of Edinburg’s newest cook off craze sign up to be a judge; your stomach will thank you later. Call us at 3834974 for more information.
Last year over 65 entries competed against one another in every category. Some cooks went home with cash prizes, and others went home just satisfied with the overall atmosphere, and noted Texas Cook’em as a classy event that catered to the cooks. Now, cooks did get first class treatment, but the community was also very pleased with the creative and careful planning that went into making Texas Cook’em an event filled with food, fun and entertainment for the entire family. If you think 65 entries are a lot to brag about, then you have another thing coming because this year Cook’em is shooting for one hundred entries and we already have a list of registrants who are excited about competing in this year’s high steaks!
July 6th & 7th July 6th, VIP, 8pm-midnight July 7th Texas Cook’em, 12 noon-10 pm FREE with $5 parking Information: 956-383-4974
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State Support Will Boost Edinburg Tourist Attractions There should be three excellent photos taken from Edinburg’s official sites in the Texas Tropical Trail Region. The photos are the historic Train Depot, home of the Edinburg Chamber; the Edinburg Scenic Wetlands & World Birding Center; and the Museum of South Texas History. If passenger trains still ran past the Edinburg Chamber of Commerce as part of the Depot Express historical building, it would take a LONG train to match today’s traffic in Edinburg. Vehicle and pedestrian traffic is growing spectacularly in Edinburg.
Randy Mallory won the bidding to write, photograph and design this project. He asked the Museum’s Programming Officer, Melissa Tijerina, to find some historical re-enactors to pose with the Museum’s exhibits. She found six, on short notice, including Hispanic, Native American and Anglo.
The Museum of South Texas history now owns a full city block on The Square, where attendance has skyrocketed in 2007. This April, the Museum set a one-month record for tours, attracting 3,212 on student tours.
Mallory was visiting and taking photos in 85 tourism sites on the 20-county Texas Tropical Trail “I’ve been in the Valley before but this is the first time I’ve stopped in Edinburg,” the photographer-writer said. “There’s really a lot of activity here.”
Even more impressive, MOSTH has averaged a record 184 visitors per day in the first four months of 2007. The average for all last year was 104 per day.
Edinburg will gain some excellent exposure when the Topical Trail completes its first official travel guide. The three sites’ proximity should help all of them attract many more visitors, with the State of Texas footing the printing, planning and photography bills.
More good news for the Museum - and Edinburg - came when a professional photographer and travel writer spent five hours taking photos of MOSTH to use in the first, 24-page Tourist Guide to the Texas Tropical Trail Region. Jim McKone, Public Information Officer The Museum of South Texas History
The Alamo Drafthouse Cinema Opens in Edinburg Summer ‘07 This summer, the Alamo Drafthouse will open its doors to Edinburg, Texas and the Rio Grande Valley. The Alamo Drafthouse is a unique combination of movie theatre and restaurant, the Alamo Drafthouse will show the best of first run and independent films on six state of the art screens, and offers an extensive menu of fresh handmade dishes, mixed drinks, wine and beer (the beer selection will be the largest on tap in the Rio Grande Valley!). Brandon J. Arceneaux and Chris Hoegemeyer, owners of the Alamo Drafthouse, say they are extremely excited about being a part of Edinburg’s impressive and growing community. “Alamo Drafthouse is a movie theatre, fullservice restaurant and special event complex that offers first run movies, specialty programming, and high quality food made from scratch daily and state of the art conference facility amenities.”
The Draft House is located on 2001 Trenton Road in Edinburg, Texas - aka: Trenton Crossroads. Call 210645-1373 for more info or log onto www.alamodrafthouse.com 9
Ribbon Cuttings
NTC Drug & Alcohol Testing
Logos Etc‌
409 East Mahl Street, Edinburg, Texas 289-8378
2301 N 10th Street, McAllen, Texas 631-4434
Fiesta Chevrolet
Dustin Michael Sekula Memorial Library
4002 S Expressway 281, Edinburg, Texas 956-383-2727
1906 South Closner, Edinburg, Texas 956-383-6246
Monster Car Wash Coffee Bar & Grill
ITA Gallery and Home Decor
2702 W University Drive, Edinburg, Texas 956-383-WASH
2409 Buddy Owens Blvd., McAllen, Texas 956-664-1330 10
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Mayor’s Prayer Breakfast On Thursday, May 03, 2007 The Edinburg Chamber of Commerce held a Mayor’s Prayer Breakfast at the Social Club in honor of National Day of Prayer. The intention of the National Day of Prayer is to have a day where members of all faiths can pray together. In 1952, a bill unanimously passed by both houses of congress proclaiming an annual National Day of Prayer. President Truman signed the bill into law. The bill required the President to select a day for national prayer each year; and in 1988, a bill was introduced to Congress which fixed the annual National Day of Prayer as the first Thursday in May; and on May 05, 1988, the bill was signed into law by President Reagan. “We are very lucky to have the freedoms to celebrate such an important proclamation,” stated Edinburg Mayor Joe Ochoa.
Thank You Fiesta Sponsors! TITANIUM City of Edinburg
Pictured Left to Right are Reverend Fabian Guerrero, Mayor Joe Ochoa, Letty Martinez President of the Edinburg Chamber of Commerce, Dr. Samuel Simon with First Christian Church, and Pastor Edgar Kruegar with First Presbyterian Church who all took part in honoring the Mayor’s Prayer Breakfast.
PLATINUM First National Bank Time Warner Cable
GOLD Edinburg Economic Development Corporation HEB Edwards Abstract and Title Co. Wells Fargo Bank Wal-Mart Capital One Martin Farm & Ranch Supply L&F Distributors The Monitor
SILVER The Edinburg Review Exquisita Tortillas Inter National Bank Linebarger Goggan Blair & Sampson Texas State Bank International Bank of Commerce Magic Valley Electric Coop
Congressman Ruben Hinojosa was Grand Marshall of the annual Fiesta Edinburg Parade held on Saturday, February 24th, 2007. The vehicle used in the parade was provided by Leon De Leon of Memorial Funeral Home.
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Adan Salazar Financial Advisor 2106 E. Griffin Pkwy Mission, TX 78572 956-580-2900
Membership Roundup ful event, and each Fiesta sponsor and volunteers who were present received a certificate of thanks. The Edinburg Chamber Champions Committee and the Edinburg Chamber of Commerce would like to thank Los Lagos Golf Course located on 1720 South Raul Longoria in Edinburg for their hospitality and also thank Roof Top Balloons, The Sign Depot, music by Raul Deleon of Deleon Productions, Edwards Abstract and Title Co, UTPA Athletic Department, Rio Valley Realty, Jeannie Sandoval of Mary Kay Cosmetics, Rene Fiesta committee members Torres, and Ed Urias for the deliacknowledged all who helped cious barbeque! make Fiesta Edinburg a successThe Edinburg Staff and Chamber Champions committee recently hosted a Membership Roundup at Los Lagos Golf Course in Edinburg . The Membership Roundup is one of the many exciting ways we show appreciation to new and existing chamber members, and to keep our lines of communication on a fun, energetic level of networking. Each Roundup, the chamber incorporates a different theme – this year’s theme we celebrated the 70’s. Thank you to all who helped organize this event.
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Edinburg Welcomes Published Authors from Hecho en Tejas On Saturday April 28, 2007 the Edinburg Chamber of Commerce and the Dustin Michael Sekula Memorial Library in Edinburg welcomed 3 published authors from the historic anthology titled Hecho en Tejas. Joining the library was Dagoberto Gilb (Woodcuts of Women), Dr. Jose Angel Gutierrez (Chicana’s in Charge) and Erasmo Guerra (Between Dances). All authors were invited to join Edinburg’s first Books and Brunch series. Each author talked about Hecho en Tejas, and read stories relating to our unique area: the Rio Grande Valley is a vessel for stories relating to history and culture. “It’s important to fall back on history, and tie these stories into our programming, providing the community with not only something informative, but something entertaining and giving them something that they can relate to while encouraging the public’s love of reading” said Letty Leija, Library Director.
Pictured Left to Right are Letty Leija; Library Director, Dagoberto Gilb; editor of Hecho en Tejas, Evana Vleck; Marketing Director with the Chamber of Commerce, Jose Angel Gutierrez; author of Chicana’s in Charge, Imelda Canales; owner of Corina’s Tea Room, and Erasmo Guerra; author of Between Dances.
Congratulations! Melissa Rodriguez from Austin Personnel Services was recently selected as Chamber Champion of The Month for the month of March. Melissa Rodriguez is very active with the Edinburg Chamber of Commerce; her volunteerism is a great asset; she brings energy, friendliness, and organization to the Chamber Champion’s team. The Chamber Champion’s is a program of the Edinburg Chamber of Commerce. They meet once a month to discuss chamber business and programs to enrich the community and improve the quality of life in Edinburg .
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Planned Shopping Center in Edinburg Lands JCPenney as a Major Anchor By DAVID A. DÍAZ Edinburg and its planned shopping center have landed JCPenney, one of the country’s largest department store retailers, which has selected the three-time All-America City to be part of a 150 store nationwide expansion that began last fall. The announcement by First Hartford Realty of Manchester, Connecticut, which is developing The Shoppes at Rio Grande Valley, will reportedly result in the construction of a 104,000square-foot JCPenney retail structure, the first of as many as two dozen stores that will eventually be part of the projected $80 million complex. The Shoppes at Rio Grande Valley, which is scheduled to be built in stages over the next three years, is located on about 130 acres of currently vacant fields in south-central Edinburg.
“There is growing demand for JCPenney stores in markets across the country. We are addressing this by launching the most aggressive store opening program in more than 25 years, which will allow us to offer our customers even more access to style and quality at smart prices,” said Ullman. Fueled by the success of its new off-mall format, continued improvement in operating results and strong free cash flow, JCPenney previously announced that it expects to open at least 50 stores per year from 2007 through 2009. Eighty percent to 90 percent of the new JCPenney stores, including 17 of the 20 opening Oct. 6, will adopt the off-mall format, although the company continues to pursue opportunities to acquire mall stores in attractive locations. The company currently has 25 stores open in the off-mall design.
The shopping center is bordered by U.S. Expressway 281 and Business 281 to its east and west, respectively, with Trenton Road serving as its southern border.
The off-mall format, covering approximately 100,000 square feet on a single level, features wider aisles, new lighting designs and concentrated customer service centers. The new store layout helps shoppers easily locate major brands such as The Original Arizona Jean Company, Chris Madden for JCPenney Home Collection, nicole by Nicole Miller, SouthPole, Worthington, Stafford, BisouBisou, Oshkosh, Nike and more.
Ramiro Garza, executive director of the Edinburg Economic Development Corporation, said details on the groundbreaking schedule for the new JCPenney store will be announced later this spring by company and shopping center officials. However, the news that JCPenney has chosen the Edinburg shopping center is expected to help land other high-quality stores, he said, “Eventually, the shopping center could result in 800,000square-feet of retail space, create up to 1,300 jobs, and have a $90 million annual economic impact on the city,” Garza added. But for now, the addition of a local JCPenney introduces the company’s newest style of store, known as the off-mall concept, to deep South Texas. According to a JCPenney announcement last October, Mryon E. (Mike) Ullman, III, JCPenney chairman and chief executive officer, explained the retail giant’s expansion plans, including the use of the off-mall stores, by the Plano, Texas-based national corporation.
“Our off-mall stores have exceeded our expectations, generating higher sales per square foot than our mall-based stores and more frequent visits by customers,” continued Ullman. “We have a unique advantage in that our off-mall department stores provide a neighborhood presence that offers convenience and accessibility for mid-week shopping, while complementing our mall stores which continue to be a weekend and holiday shopping destination.” J. C. Penney Corporation, Inc., the wholly owned operating subsidiary of J. C. Penney Company, Inc., is one of America’s largest department store, catalog, and e-commerce retailers, employing approximately 151,000 associates. As of July 29, 2006, J. C. Penney Corporation, Inc. operated 1,021 JCPenney department stores throughout the United States and Puerto Rico. JCPenney is the nation’s largest catalog merchant of general merchandise, and jcp.com is one of the largest apparel and home furnishings sites on the Internet.
The announcement continued:
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Leadership Edinburg Donates to Make A Wish and the Edinburg Library The Leadership Edinburg Class XVIII recently presented the Dustin Michael Sekula Memorial Library in Edinburg , located on 1906 South Closner and the Make A Wish Foundation with a check for $2,800 to each organization. The Leadership Edinburg Class XVIII is a dynamic group of community leaders who volunteer their time and services to educating themselves on strong leadership skills that include education, government, quality of life, and health. The Leadership Class is a program of the Edinburg Chamber of Commerce. As part of Leadership’s program of work, the class organizes several fundraisers throughout their 9 month course to assist in funding community organizations and non-profit services. The Leadership Edinburg Class XVIII will be having their graduation ceremony on Wednesday, May 23rd. To be involved in Leadership Edinburg please call Letty Martinez at 956-383-4974.
Leadership Edinburg Class XVIII presents check to the Dustin Michael Sekula Memorial Library in Edinburg
Leadership Edinburg Class XVIII presents check to the Make A Wish Foundation
DEPOT EXPRESS - ADVERTISING OPTIONS OPTION # 1: Frequency: Ad size: Rate: Total Investment:
5 Non-Consecutive Insertions 1/4 Page FULL Color $100 per ad $500
Option #1 allows your business to advertise in any of (5) FIVE issues of the Chamber’s Newsletter: Depot Express
OPTION # 2: Frequency: Ad size: Rate: Total Investment:
5 Non-Consecutive Insertions 1/2 Page FULL Color $200 per ad $1,000
Option #2 allows your business to advertise in any of (5) FIVE issues of the Chamber’s Newsletter: Depot Express
OPTION # 3: Frequency: Ad size: Rate: Total Investment:
5 Non-Consecutive Insertions Full Page FULL Color $300 per ad $1,500
Option #3 allows your business to advertise in any of (5) FIVE issues of the Chamber’s Newsletter: Depot Express 16
Feature Businesses of the Month The Edinburg Chamber of Commerce is pleased to identify Austin Personnel Services as the small Feature Business of The Month for March. Austin Personnel Services was chosen as the small business and have supported the chamber’s community endeavors throughout the years. Their offices are located on 108 N. Jackson Rd. Ste. 30 in Edinburg, Texas and on 513 E. Jackson, Ste. 202 in Harlingen, Texas. Austin Personnel Services is a staffing company focusing on clerical, light industrial, agriculture, administrative assistants, maquila placement, payroll, data entry and construction.
Javier Aranda (Texas State Bank), Letty Martinez (Edinburg Chamber of Commerce), Rick McKinney (Texas State Bank), Jennifer Rodriguez (Austin Personnel Services), Naomi Peralez (Texas Gas Service), Johnny Rodriguez (owner of Austin Personnel Services), Jeanie Sandoval (Edinburg Executive Center), Melissa Rodriguez (owner of Austin Personnel Services), Cindy Ramos (Austin Personnel Services), Frank Lara (Edinburg Chamber of Commerce), Elva Jackson Garza (Edwards Abstract and Title Co.), Mark Magee (First National Bank).
The Edinburg Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce First National Bank (FNB) as the large Feature Business of The Month for March. First National Bank is located on 1920 S. Closner Blvd. in Edinburg, Texas. “First National Bank is actively involved with chamber programs, special events, seminars, and meetings and has supported chamber events on many occasions. They were recently a Platinum Sponsor for the 39th Annual Fiesta Edinburg, and FNB employees also volunteered their time and energies to the 2-day event” stated Letty Martinez, President for the Edinburg Chamber of Commerce.
Staff members of FNB, the Edinburg Chamber of Commerce and Chamber Champions recognize First National Bank as Feature Business of the Month
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Chamber Champions
Cris Torres
Celebrate Hollywood in Edinburg
Nominated as Chair-Elect
The Chamber Champions Committee is gearing up for the annual Membership Campaign and Gala. June 18-22 marks the dates for the exciting week-long operation where the Edinburg Chamber of Commerce and the Chamber Champions pound the pavement to promote the chamber though gathering new membership applications from new or existing businesses not currently a part of the Edinburg Chamber. Last fiscal year, the membership campaign brought in over 40 new members within a one week span. This year, the committee plans to exceed that number, and celebrate with a membership Gala at the Alamo Draft House, included will be a Hollywood movie theme. Team Captains are Jeanie Sandoval (Edinburg Executive Business Center), Paulina Solis (Texas State Bank), Gisela Hughes (Realty Executives), Corina Canchola (First National Bank), and Elva Jackson-Garza (Edwards Abstract and Title Co.) head of the Edinburg Chamber Board of Directors Team.
Cris Torres (Assistant Vice President; Inter National Bank) has recently been nominated to serve as the 2006-2007 Chair-Elect for the Edinburg Chamber of Commerce which will move her to serve as Chair in October of 2007. Cris Torres has been involved with the chamber for the past 17 years and has a big hand in organizing Fiesta Edinburg. She is dedicated to the chamber’s mission and proves this time and time again as her hands-on involvement increases as the chamber grows. Not only is Cris a valuable volunteer, but she has been an asset by involving her family, friends and coworkers at chamber events. “It’s an honor to work with everyone on the board and staff; I am committed to the chamber and willingly accept the position as Chair Elect; I hope that during my leadership I am able to continue the progress the chamber has accomplished throughout the years” stated Cris Torres.
Back Row L-R Abel J. Leal, Tiffany Gomez, Naomi Perales, Antanacio Hinojosa, Dalia Arce, Dr. Walter Greene, Flo Prater, Ian Ochoa, Dina Araguz, Alicia Salinas, Aaron Ramirez, Holly Martin, Frank Lara, Marie Garcia, and Estella Guerrero. Front Row L-R Gisela Hughes Paulina Solis, Elva Jackson Garza, Jeannie Sandoval, and Ada Rodriguez.
The Edinburg Chamber of Commerce Nominating Committee L to R are: Cynthia Bocanegra (Champs Bar & Grill), Letty Martinez (Edinburg Chamber of Commerce), Noe Valdez (Valdez Meats & Catering), Cris Torres (Inter National Bank), Mark Magee (First National Bank), Leon De Leon (Memorial Funeral Home) and Elva Jackson Garza (Edwards Abstract and Title Co.).
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Economic Update by Ramiro Garza, Jr.
Every year that goes by, Edinburg reaches a new milestone in terms of growth and economic activity.
Edinburg. In fact, the total sales tax activity of $5.6 million realized in the first five months of 2007 represents more than the entire year of 1998.
Last year, Edinburg surpassed Harlingen in population to become the third largest City in the Rio Grande Valley according to the U.S. Census Bureau which now has Edinburg with a population of 62,735.
This phenomenal growth is attributed to the population growth we’ve had along with the new shopping options that residents now have. The new Walmart Supercenter and the Lowe’s Home Improvement center are a few of the major retailers that have opened just this year as well as many small businesses. In addition, there has also been a list of new restaurants opened that have also added to the sales tax activity taking place.
In 2005, Edinburg realized an unemployment rate of below 5% which topped all Valley cities, the State of Texas and the nation. In 2007, there seems to be a milestone reached every month.
And there’s no sign of sales tax activity slowing down. According to the latest Buxton retail study, there is a $2 billion retail demand potential within a 10 minute drive time around Edinburg.
For the reporting month of May 2007, there was a total of $1.4 million generated in local sales taxes which represented a 17.75% increase when compared to the prior year of May 2006. Even though this was reported in May, the activity represents the month of March which is tied to the reporting done by the state’s comptroller’s office.
With over five different commercial developments now under construction that will bring new retailers to the City, the amount of sales tax activity will only grow to reach additional milestones in the future.
The percentage increase in itself should garner attention. But the milestone actually reached is that the $1.4 million in sales tax activity represents the largest increase ever realized by the City of
If you would like a copy of the Buxton retail study, please contact us at 383-7124 or you may download a copy at our website at www.edinburgedc.com.
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VIP Members AEP Texas Central Company
First National Bank
Memorial Funeral Home
Azteca Milling L.P
Gateway Printing & Office Supply
Progressive Telecommunications
Best Western - Edinburg Inn & Suites
H.E.B.
Roberts Chevrolet
Border Capital Bank
H.E.B. #2
Royston, Rayzor, Vickery
Capital One
Inland Paperboard and Packaging Inc.
& Williams, LLP
Clark Chevrolet
Inter National Bank
Santiago Gonzalez, Jr., C.P.A.
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
Falcon International Bank
Magic Valley Electric Co-op.
Whataburger
BULK RATE U.S. POSTAGE
PAID P.O. Box 85/602 W. University Drive Edinburg, Texas 78540 956-383-4974 www.edinburg.com
Edinburg, TX 78539 Permit No. 58
Depot Express 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. Š2007