Livability McAllen, TX 2013

MCALLEN livability.com/mcallen

Texas

Outside the box Residents get creative with business ventures

McAllen in a Day This happening Valley city has plenty to do and see 2013 | sponsored by the mcallen Chamber of Commerce

For business or leisure, make your travel easier …

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CONTENTS

7 Welcome to McAllen

An introduction to the community

Things to Do 0 Must Try 1 McAllen in a Day

his happening Valley city T has plenty to do and see

4 Parks 1 Ahh, How Refreshing

ity adds four-acre lake C to Fireman’s Park

9 Local Flavor 1 Palate Pleasers 0 Arts & Culture 2 Rave Reviews

2013 edition volume 11

McAllen

2 Sports & Recreation 2 Soak Up Some Sun

TExas

24 See the City

Living 8 High Tech Schools 2 Padding the Curriculum

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Tech tools foster student success

0 Education 3 Set for Success 3 Health 3 Take a Deep Breath and Relax 35 Community Profile 36 Living: See the City

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Business

2 Entrepreneurship 4 Outside the Box

esidents get creative R with business ventures

7 Chamber Letter 4 What’s the Big Idea?

48 Economic Profile All or part of this magazine is printed with soy ink on recycled paper containing 10% post-consumer waste.

30 On The Cover The McAllen Public Library Photo by Michael Conti

Please recycle this magazine

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2013 edition volume 11

McAllen GET THE DIGITAL Texas Content Director | Lisa Battles Contributing Writers | Barbara Biehler, Laura Hill, Carson O’Shoney, Kathryn Royster, Braxton Shoop Content Coordinator | Jessica Walker Staff Writer | Kevin Litwin Proofreading Manager | Raven Petty Lead Designer | Stacey Allis Senior Graphic Designers | Laura Gallagher, Kris Sexton, Jake Shores, Vikki Williams Graphic Designers | Erica Lampley, Kara Leiby, Kacey Passmore Creative Technology Analyst | Becca Ary Lead Photographer | Michael Conti Senior Photographers | Jeff Adkins, Brian McCord Staff Photographers | Todd Bennett, Martin B. Cherry Color Imaging Technician | Alison Hunter Integrated Media Manager | Todd Potter Sales Support Project Manager | Sara Quint

MAGAZINE

MCALLEN

livability.com/mcallen

TEXAS

Ad Production Manager | Katie Middendorf Ad Traffic Assistants | Krystin Lemmon, Patricia Moisan Web Project Manager | David Day Web Development Lead | Yamel Hall Web Developer I | Nels Noseworthy Web Designer II | Richard Stevens Web Product Manager | John Hood Digital Project Manager | Jill Ridenour Chairman | Greg Thurman President/Publisher | Bob Schwartzman Executive Vice President | Ray Langen Senior V.P./Sales | Todd Potter Senior V.P./Client Development | Jeff Heefner Senior V.P./Operations | Casey Hester V.P./Sales | Jarek Swekosky V.P./Content Operations | Natasha Lorens Audience Development Director | Deanna Nelson Creative Services Director | Christina Carden Distribution Director | Gary Smith Photography Director | Jeffrey S. Otto Web Services Director | Allison Davis Controller | Chris Dudley Senior Accountant | Lisa Owens Accounts Payable Coordinator | Maria McFarland Accounts Receivable Coordinator | Diana Guzman

OUTSIDE THE BOX

Residents get creative with business ventures

McAllen in a Day

This happening Valley city has plenty to do and see 2013 | SPON SORED

BY THE MCALLEN CHAM BER OF COMM ERCE

System Administrator | Daniel Cantrell Executive Secretary | Kristy Duncan Human Resources Manager | Peggy Blake Receptionist | Linda Bishop

Livability McAllen, TX is published annually by Journal Communications Inc. and is distributed through the McAllen Chamber of Commerce and its member businesses.

For advertising information or to direct questions or comments about the magazine, contact Journal Communications Inc. at (615) 771-0080 or by email at info@jnlcom.com.

For more information, contact: McAllen Chamber of Commerce 1200 Ash Avenue • P.O. Box 790 McAllen, TX 78505-0790 Phone: (956) 682-2871 • Fax: (956) 687-2917 www.mcallenchamber.com Visit Livability McAllen, TX online at livability.com/mcallen ©Copyright 2012 Journal Communications Inc., 725 Cool Springs Blvd., Suite 400, Franklin, TN 37067, (615) 771-0080. All rights reserved. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in whole or in part without written consent.

The Association of Magazine Media Member Custom Content Council Member Member McAllen Chamber of Commerce

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CONTENTS

livability.com/mcallen

Visit the website for more great photos and stories about McAllen, Texas.

Photos & Video

MCALLEN livability.com/mcallen

TEXAS

OUTSIDE THE BOX

FaCTS

Residents get creative with business ventures

Get data fast on population, climate, workforce, cost of living and more.

McAllen in a Day This happening Valley city has plenty to do and see 2013 | SPONSORED BY THE MCALLEN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

digital magazine Read it online or on your tablet and quickly share articles with friends.

Things to Do

Living

Business

Find the must-do attractions, activities and dining in McAllen.

Learn about McAllen’s schools, health care, education and neighborhoods.

Get info on top employers, jobs and success stories in McAllen.

Livability.com Follow us @livability Like us at facebook.com/livability Follow us at pinterest.com/livability

At A Glance

McAllen, Texas A quick, comprehensive overview of what’s great about the community Cultural diversity, progressive business practices and a booming economy best characterize McAllen – one of the fastest growing metros in Texas and part of one of the fastest growing MSAs in the nation. Its location near the U.S.-Mexico border has made it a magnet for retail, international trade, tourism and manufacturing.

Abundant Living McAllen’s economic mix means tangible benefits for residents beyond a strong job market. They take their picks among diverse shopping and dining options that include national brands and unique, independent retailers.

The resulting tax base means the city can offer amenities such as a massive, state-of-the-art library; in-town bus service; awesome parks; and popular hiking and biking trails that are enjoyed year round thanks to a warm climate.

With all this and affordable homes, McAllen also consistently ranks among cities with the lowest cost of living in the United States.

Great for Business McAllen is good for business, big and small. More than 100 Fortune 500 companies have a presence within the McAllen MSA, and the city has also been recently recognized by CNNMoney on its list of Best Places to Launch a Small Business.

Key factors bringing expansions and entrepreneurs are an excellent quality of life; numerous advanced medical facilities; a comprehensive financial services community; demonstrated logistics advantages to reach existing and new markets; and a mostly young, bicultural and bilingual population.

Read on to discover why McAllen is one of America’s best places to live.

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Location McAllen is in the Rio Grande Valley of South Texas, situated just 70 miles west of the Gulf of Mexico. McAllen is the largest city in Hidalgo County.

Matamoros

McAllen

POPULATION

133,821 (McAllen) 774,769 (MSA)

Time zone Central

Distances to three major cities nearby San Antonio, 224 miles Austin, 311 miles Fort Worth/Dallas, 502 miles

annual rainfall

23”

National Average: 30”

For More Information

McAllen Chamber of Commerce 1200 Ash Avenue McAllen, TX 78501 Phone: (956) 682-2871 Fax: (956) 687-2917 www.mcallenchamber.com

Accolade

No. 3 Mid-Size U.S. City for Jobs - Forbes

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Things To Do McAllen’s must-do attractions, activities and dining

Grab Your Binoculars

McAllen’s many wildlife havens include Quinta Mazatlan above, an urban sanctuary for birds, plants and other wildlife; Valley Nature Center, which is the oldest nature center in the Rio Grande Valley; and the 2,000-acre Santa Ana National Wildlife Refuge, which has recorded 400 bird species and hundreds of butterfly species.

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Art Events

Shopping

Sports

Locally Grown

Mingle with artists

browse or buy

Play Ball

Stock Up

The Music After Hours Outdoor Concert Series is held monthly to showcase bands from the Rio Grande Valley.

Meanwhile, McAllen’s ArtWalk is a monthly self-guided tour that features art galleries, vendors and museums.

McAllen’s La Plaza Mall draws more than 18 million visitors each year as the main shopping spot for residents in the Rio Grande Valley. The 1,200,000-square-foot mall has more than 140 retailers, such as Macy’s and Dillard’s, as well as a variety of restaurants.

The McAllen Thunder and Edinburg Roadrunners are baseball teams that play at Edinburg Baseball Stadium. Both teams are members of the North American League, an independent professional league not affiliated with Major League Baseball.

You can find more than 20 varieties of citrus and other fresh fruits, vegetables, nuts and locally made products at Klement’s Grove, Bell’s Farm to Market, Farmers Market at Town Lake and Farmers Market at McAllen’s new library.

McAllen

Things To Do

Climb Aboard

The Federal Transit Administration awarded McAllen $1.9 million to create an electric bus pilot program. OLEV Technologies oversees the program, which is retrofitting three diesel buses with electric motors. Passenger transport begins in 2013.

Happy Hour

Eatery

Outdoors

Pro Sports

propose a Toast

pick the platter

Get in Shape

flash and vipers

Enjoy dinner, drinks and fun at the many businesses located within the 17th Street Entertainment District of downtown McAllen, a revitalized area now bustling with interesting restaurants, pubs, clubs and lounges.

The popular restaurant Costa Messa has a new location on North 10th Street, and its menu includes favorite items such as huge botana platters to share and choriqueso. The eatery is open seven days a week from 11 a.m. until 10 p.m.

Hiking and biking trail systems are located at various parks throughout McAllen. Some of the area’s most popular trails can be found at Las Palmas Park, La Vista Park, Los Encinos Park, Retama Village Park, Bill Schupp Park and Westside Park.

Cheer on the Rio Grande Valley Flash, a Professional Arena Soccer League team, and catch the basketball action of the Rio Grande Valley Vipers, 2010 NBA Development League Champions. Both teams play at State Farm Arena in Hidalgo.

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Things To Do

McAllen

in a Day this happening valley city offers plenty to do, see & eat

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McAllen

A bird’s-eye view of the city’s revitalized 17the Street Entertainment District.

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ot 24 hours to spare? We recommend a busy day, well spent, in McAllen, where you can fill every available hour with interesting sights, delicious cuisine and a variety of fun activities.

Midnight to Noon in McAllen Where to stay? McAllen has nearly 3,600 hotel rooms, from luxurious traditional hotels to new motels with all the contemporary bells and whistles. The Renaissance Casa de Palmas, a four-star hotel on Main Street, was built in 1918 and lavishly restored into a luxury property featuring Mission architecture that recalls McAllen’s past. Or try the Spring Hill Suites, just off the expressway, for a more modern take.

After a comfortable night, start the morning off with breakfast at Jimmy’s Egg, a new outpost of a longtime Oklahoma favorite. Here, enjoy nearly any kind of egg you can imagine for breakfast – or atop a burger at lunch.

Go further south of the cuisine border at Las Cazuelas Grill, another popular new eatery, for menu items such as Chilaquiles con Huevo or Molletes.

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McAllen Public Library

M-Th: 9AM - 9PM F-Sat: 9AM - 6PM Sun: 1PM - 9PM

Phone: (956) 688-3300 UHV students (with ID): Free www.mcallenlibrary.net

International Museum of Arts and Sciences

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“McAllen is a beautiful multicultural city with plenty to do and see.

From shopping in the most popular stores in the nation or unique, one-of-a-kind shops, to fine dining and plenty of family outdoor activities – you can do it year round here.”

Gerry Garcia, VP of special projects for the McAllen chamber

The Patio on Guerra

Diners enjoy the food and atmosphere at The Patio on Guerra on 17th Street in downtown McAllen.

The hike and bike trail on Second Street and another on Bicentennial offer the chance for a leisurely 2.3-mile stroll around town – you’ve got to work off that breakfast, after all. And then head over to the International Museum of Arts and Science, a Smithsonian affiliated museum where a wide variety of changing art and science exhibits always offer something interesting.

Another must-see is McAllen’s new public library, which at a whopping 123,000 square feet is the largest single-floor library in the U.S. This former Walmart building underwent a total transformation into an aesthetically pleasing community resource that’s steadily gaining attention worldwide for its colorful, open and functional design. Opened in December 2011, the facility has already won first place in the International Interior Design Association’s 2012 Library Interior Design Competition.

Lunch and Later “We’ve got over 600 restaurants here,” says Chamber President and CEO Steve Ahlenius. So, since it’s noon by now, try the flatbread or a

salad at house. wine. & bistro or go for a panini at Corner Bakery Cafe.

Or, for Latin flavor, head to KoKo’s for delicious Mexican fare.

In McAllen, a day without shopping would be sad indeed.

La Plaza Mall is the most visited mall in the country, and Palms Crossings at the McAllen Convention Center is home to several shops and restaurants such as Mimi’s Cafe and Romano’s Macaroni Grill.

“After I finished shopping, I’d spend the rest of the afternoon at Quinta Mazatlan (a historic home that also offers nature trails and legendary bird watching),” Ahlenius says. Another option is to test the waters by kayaking or catch-and-release fishing on Town Lake at Fireman’s Park.

McAllen After Hours You’re not tired, are you?

Good, because after freshening up back at your hotel, it’s off to a night on the town. Cajun cuisine at The Bayou Grill on North 10th St. is a great option, as are the authentic Mexican menus at Cabritos Nuevo Leon or La Jaiba Mexican Seafood Grill, both on West Nolana.

After dinner, stroll the 17th Street Entertainment District to catch the flavor of McAllen after hours, or catch a show at the historic Cine El Rey theater, where comedy acts, concerts, film festivals and other events take the stage.

Finally, La Recova Contemporary Argentinean Grill beckons for a nightcap in its quiet, upscale bar, “where you can actually carry on a conversation,” Ahlenius says.

Then, to bed. Where, after a good night’s rest, you will surely want to get up and spend yet another great day in McAllen.

by Laura Hill by staff photographer

Michael Conti

Snapshot

For music, dinner and dancing, head to downtown Mc Allen’s 17th Street Entertainme nt District.

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Things To Do Things To Do

Town Lake

A boy takes his dog for a walk as he skateboards the trail along the new 4-acre Town Lake at Fireman’s Park, a popular spot for canoeing, kayaking, fishing and more.

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McAllen

Ahh, How Refreshing new Lake opens AT Fireman’s Park

T

he City of McAllen made a big splash in May 2012 when it officially opened Town Lake at Fireman’s Park.

What was once a small tract of land with a few basic recreational amenities is now a 15-acre redevelopment that includes the four-acre Town Lake. Crews used a water holding pond at the city’s former water treatment facility to construct the new lake.

“We did all the required dredging to transform the little pond into a recreational lake that is 15 feet at its deepest point,” says Sally Gavlik, director of the McAllen Parks & Recreation Department. “In these days of more and more people opting to remain close to home for staycations, Town Lake at Fireman’s Park gives them a valid option for a different kind of local vacation.”

Let the Fun Begin Town Lake is situated right in the middle of McAllen, off Business Highway 83 between First and Second streets.

Swimming is prohibited due to park

irrigation regulations, but a beach has been constructed to launch canoes, kayaks and paddle boats. A fishing pier is also in place.

“We transferred fish to the lake from nearby Boeye Reservoir, which has provided us with good stocks of bass, perch and catfish,” Gavlik says.

“Town Lake currently only has a catchand-release program, meaning you can catch fish but must release them back into the water. At some point in the future when the fish population increases, we plan to schedule times when people can take the fish home.” l i va b i l i t y. c o m /m c a l l e n

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Fishing

A group casts lines into Town Lake, which enforces a catch-andrelease program.

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Take a Hike Walking and jogging are also good recreational options around the water’s perimeter.

“Town Lake actually ties into the well used Second Street Trail. People can come off the trail, walk or jog along the lake and then get back onto the trail,” Gavlik says. “The scenery includes wildflowers in a freshly seeded meadow, while other park amenities are horseshoe pits, two playgrounds and free picnic sites at the north end of Fireman’s Park at First Street.”

There is also a covered pavilion area with sand volleyball courts, a small concession building and three camping sites. The campsites can be used during the day by anyone, but only overnight by organized groups such as the Boy Scouts or Girl Scouts. Group reservations must be made through the McAllen Parks & Recreation Department.

“Another park attraction is the former water treatment building, which has been transformed into a rental facility,” Gavlik says. “It is now called The Old Pump House, complete with new windows, air conditioning, uplighting, tiling and carpeted floors. Groups of 75 to 100 people can rent the facility for meetings, small receptions or small social events.

The Old Pump House adds to the overall amenities of today’s Firemen’s Park.”

Town Lake

Fireman’s Park

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by Kevin Litwin, by staff photographer Michael Conti

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McAllen

Children enjoy the playground at Fireman’s Park.

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Things To Do: Local Flavor

Palate Pleasers

McAllen Restaurants serve up flavorful foods McAllen diners, rejoice! The city has a broad selection of distinctive restaurants and eateries appealing to just about every taste. By Barbara Biehler Asian

sensational sushi & SPICE McAllen has several great spots for Japanese food such as sushi, tempura and teppanyaki, including Kohnami, Kumori and Yoko’s Sushi Bar. Fans of Thai food should check out Thai Red Chili’s for dishes like pad thai, red curry chicken and sweet rice with mango.

Indian

Tandoori, anyone?

Taste of India hits the spot for diners looking for high quality, authentic Indian food made from old family recipes and paired with excellent service.

Frida’s Grill and Cantina, located on 17th Street, offers traditional Mexican favorites with modern flavors. Go to Frida’s to enjoy unique culinary dishes, signature drinks and live music on the weekends.

Tex-Mex and Mexican

Argentine

some like it spicy

South American cuisine

Step into Las Cazuelas Grill for classic Mexican cuisine, or visit Palenque Chicken for expertly prepared Mexican and Tex Mex dishes.

Renowned regionally for homemade tamales, Delia’s uses fresh ingredients including pork, chicken and beef.

The Republic of Rio Grande serves Mexican cuisine in an intimate setting. Order a traditional dish, like the chicken fajitas or enchiladas suizas, or enjoy a distinctive entree such as shrimp chipotle pesto pasta or a brick-oven pizza.

Relax in the elegant, yet casual atmosphere of La Pampa Argentinean Steak House while you dine on classic Argentinecut steaks, grilled chicken breasts marinated in Chimichurri or traditional de carne empanadas.

Meanwhile, La Recova also offers a wide selection of Argentine-style favorites on its menu. Favorite dishes at La Recova includes chorizo, tuna carnitas, duck confit and churrasco, a classic top sirloin steak.

“Delia’s has the best tamales in town.

Probably even in the RGV. The only place you can get the good old homemade flavor of real tamales.”

Evila L., Yelp.com Outdoor Dining

trendy & tasty If you’re in the mood for a USDA prime steak or succulent seafood, drop by The Patio on Guerra.

Dine on the outdoor patio and have a bottle of one of the restaurant’s award-winning wines.

Check out more restaurants in McAllen at livability.com/mcallen.

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Things To Do: arts & culture

Rave Reviews

McAllen’s Arts Scene Remains Robust with museums, music and events Arts patrons, music lovers and history buffs enjoy many cultural attractions throughout McAllen.

The latest buzz , McAllen Performing Arts Center, will spring up near the McAllen Convention Center, giving fans of live music, theater and dance a fine new facility to anticipate.

Live Entertainment

performers take the stage The 17th Street Entertainment District in downtown McAllen overflows with lounges, restaurants and clubs. For live music, visit The Old Ice House or Cine El Rey. The city’s diverse culture is what influences much of the music performed by the Valley Symphony Orchestra & Chorale.

The Symphony was established in 1952 with the Chorale joining later, in 1984. Similarly, the South Texas Lyric Opera brings the fine art of opera to the Rio Grande Valley with a yearly slate of productions and an annual opera gala, and Rio Grande Valley Broadway brings popular stage shows to town, such as Disney’s Beauty and the Beast and Monty Python’s Spamalot.

Historic Sites

take a step back in time

Cine El Rey

Opened in 1947, the historic Cine El Rey theater now functions as a music and performance venue, showcasing a variety of live events, and also shows Spanish and English independent films. The theater is located in downtown McAllen’s 17th Street Entertainment District.

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McAllen

The Museum of South Texas History and the McAllen Heritage Center are just two locations to learn about the rich history of this bicultural area.

Quinta Mazatlan, a 1930s hacienda that embodies the Spanish Colonial Revival architecture of arches, adobe and beams, and provides an intimate look into South Texas history. The 10,000-squarefoot mansion sits on a 15-acre plot hosting a mix of native and exotic plants and wildlife, making up McAllen’s wing of the popular World Birding Center.

Visual Arts and Festivals

accessible art, fun events The International Museum of Art & Science, founded in 1969, promotes an appreciation for the arts and sciences through its exhibitions, cultural events and many educational programs. IMAS is located at 1900 Nolana Ave. The McAllen Art Walk is a self-guided tour that gives art lovers the opportunity to explore the many art offerings in the city.

It’s held every first Friday from September through May, and is free and open to the public.

On the first Saturday night of December, folks enjoy the Candlelight Posada, which includes food booths, luminaries, a parade, live entertainment, caroling and a live nativity scene.

“Cine El Rey hosts events as diverse as wrestling, live bands, films and comedy shows. A huge stage is complimented by killer production value and a staff that really cares about all aspects of the experience. I’m looking forward to a return trip.”

Bill Dykes, Yelp Chamber of Commerce Support

Chamber BAcks the arts The McAllen Chamber of Commerce shows its love for the arts by managing the McAllen Arts Council, which publishes a quarterly magazine, produces an annual fine arts exhibition and offers grants to local artists. The Chamber also offers an outdoor concert series and coordinates the Public Art Committee’s acquisition program.

Things To Do: sports & recreation

Soak Up Some Sun McAllen residents have plenty of gOOD reasons to get outdoors Great golf courses, hiking and biking trails and a large, well-maintained park system make McAllen the perfect place to enjoy outdoor fun. By Carson O’Shoney Golf

tee it up With nearly 20 courses in the McAllen area, golf is a popular attraction in the Rio Grande Valley.

One of the most notable courses is the Palm View Golf Course, an 18-hole public course with a private feel. With rolling fairways and Bermuda rough mounds, the course is an often-used location for tournaments, having hosted LPGA tournaments and Palm View’s Amateur Golf Championship.

McAllen Country Club provides a challenge with tree-lined fairways and small greens, and also offers a swimming pool, tennis courts, a fitness center and other amenities.

Every golf course in the area is bustling, especially in the winter, when “Winter Texans” come to the Rio Grande Valley. The weather generally stays in the 70s in the coldest months, making it a perfect place for winter golfing.

Hiking, Biking and Racing

On the move in mcallen

Palm View Golf Course

Irish Cochran plays a round of golf at Palm View Golf Course, an 18-hole public course often used for high profile tournaments.

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McAllen

There are plenty of hiking and biking trails on the east and west sides of town such as the Retama Village Park Trail, Westside Park Trail and Las Palmas Park Trail.

Visiting cyclists are welcome to meet up with Team McAllen Cycling, a bike club that’s been in the city for more than 25 years.

Racing fans can enjoy the McAllen International Motorplex and Event Center, which hosts stock car races, car shows and more. The racetrack is a familyfriendly place, offering activities for children such as games, face painting and crafts.

Spray and Ground Park

Besides its popular water feature, McAllen’s new Spray and Ground Park has a sand volleyball court, skateboard area, a half basketball court and just over half a mile of walking trails. In addition, there are athletic practice fields, shaded areas, picnic shelters and restroom facilities.

City Parks

Outdoor family fun The McAllen Parks and Recreation Department currently oversees 25 city parks. Ranging from historic parks established in the early 1900s to more modern facilities, there are several options suitable for the whole family.

Archer Park, McAllen’s oldest park, opened in 1912. Serving as a historic landmark in the city, it also plays host to many of the city’s annual special events including the Candlelight Posada and Movies in the Park.

Spanning 38 acres, Springfest Park is the largest park in McAllen.

Springfest hosts a variety of special events and is home to McAllen’s Winter Polo League from January through March.

Check out more fun things to do in McAllen at livability.com/mcallen.

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things to do: see the city

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McAllen

The Irrigation Worker

The sun sets behind a sculpture, “The Irrigation Worker,� which was created by artist Douglas Clark and is located on Nolana and 25th.

View a collection of photos from McAllen at livability.com/mcallen/tx/photos-video.

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living here Schools, health care, education and neighborhoods in McAllen

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McAllen

Luxury Living Newcomers have many beautiful home options in McAllen, such as those offered in eight different communities by Cantu Construction, a locally based award-winning builder.

See more beautiful photos from McAllen at livability.com/mcallen/tx/photos-video.

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LIVING

McAllen Independent School District students use system-issued iPads in class.

Padding the

Curriculum Tech Tools Foster student success

M

cAllen Independent School District (ISD) is feeling the benefits of an ambitious technology plan that places an iPod or iPad in the hands of every teacher and student.

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McAllen

“I’ve learned more from my fellow teachers than I have in many years, just from sharing ideas for how to use the iPads in the classroom.”

Photo COURTESTY OF McAllen Independent School District

Carol Ann Allen, Language Arts Teacher at Michael E. Fossum Middle School

High-Tech Learning

Seventh-grade students use iPads to follow class lectures and take quizzes during a language arts class at Michael E. Fossum Middle School.

Educating for the 21st Century The initiative began with a meeting between Dr. James Ponce, McAllen’s superintendent of schools, and a “cadre” of about 35 teachers, administrators and parents.

The group’s primary goal was to build a 21st-century classroom environment, one that fosters creativity, collaboration and entrepreneurship. The group also wanted to find a way to harness the 24/7 educational potential of the Internet – and teach students the critical-thinking skills needed to process online content.

“It’s an environment where the teachers become the primary learners, and the students are driven by their example,” Ponce says. “So we asked what tools we would need for this transformation of the way we teach and the way the kids learn.”

After much research, the group chose iPods (for grades K-2) and iPads (for teachers and grades 3-12) because of their portability,

relatively low cost and ease of use.

To implement the plan’s first stage, McAllen ISD issued 5,800 of these devices to teachers and students; when the rollout is complete, it will cover more than 25,000 students.

Big Benefits for Teachers and Students Both teachers and students are seeing benefits from the program.

“The iPods help the kids be creative. My students are organizing information in new ways,” says Ruth Whiddon, who teaches first grade at Andrew Jackson Elementary School.

For Carol Ann Allen, International Baccalaureate coordinator and eighth-grade language arts teacher at Michael E. Fossum Middle School, the initiative is all about collaboration.

“I’ve learned more from my fellow teachers than I have in many years, just from sharing ideas for how to use the iPads in the classroom,” she says.

Sandra Guerra, who teaches seventh- and eighth-grade math

at Fossum, says the iPads have changed both her teaching style and the way her students learn.

Instead of mapping out the learning process step-by-step, she now gives students their goal and lets them choose how to get there.

“With this approach, they own their learning, and they’ve been more willing to learn,” Guerra says.

The iPads have also been a game-changer for Guerra’s family.

Her seventh-grade daughter is learning advanced science concepts because of independent iPad projects. And, because most of her children’s school materials are on their iPads, it’s easier than ever for Guerra to check on their progress from home.

That kind of scenario, says Superintendent Ponce, is at the heart of the initiative.

“The entire school system and our community want to lead in this effort to build a 21st-century learning environment,” he says.

“This is a direct investment in our children and their families.”

by Kathryn Royster l i va b i l i t y. c o m /m c a l l e n

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LIVING: Education

Set for Success college prep is a top priority in mcallen Education in McAllen is defined by excellent options.

From elementary school through college, McAllen includes numerous institutions designed to prepare students for success. By Braxton Shoop

Local Inspiration

former student flies high One of McAllen’s successful students is astronaut Michael Fossum, a graduate of McAllen High School. After receiving his commission from the U.S. Air Force

by Texas A&M University, Fossum graduated Air Force Test Pilot School at Edwards Air Force Base, and in 1993, he started at NASA. Throughout his NASA career, Fossum was on crew for three spaceflights. He commanded the space station during one of his flights, helping him rank seventh on the all-time list for cumulative Extravehicular Activity time.

Higher Education

south texas college McAllen’s South Texas College has more than 30,000 students and offers numerous associate and bachelor’s degree programs as well as professional certifications in more than 40 areas. The college also has online degree courses for students who work full time.

Public Schools

mcallen independent school district

Top-Notch Learning Environment

University of Texas-Pan American offers many undergraduate degrees, more than 50 master’s degrees and three doctoral degrees. UTPA has accreditations from organizations like the Commission for Collegiate Nursing, the Examining Board of Nurse Examiners for the State of Texas, and the Engineering Accreditation Commission of the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology.

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McAllen

Established in 1915, the McAllen Independent School District comprises three high schools, seven middle schools and 20 elementary schools.

Among these schools, the district offers an advanced placement college-level curriculum and a dual-enrollment program for students who would like to obtain high school and college credit simultaneously.

In addition, the district features an International Baccalaureate program that provides students with an advanced curriculum geared toward global standards.

School yourself on more educational offerings at livability.com/mcallen.

Michael E. Fossum Middle School

Named for astronaut Michael E. Fossum, the school is part of the McAllen Independent School District.

Charter School

IDEA Academy IDEA Academy is an innovative institution that offers a fully scaled curriculum for students in kindergarten and in the first, second and sixth grades. The school, which opened in McAllen in 2012, will eventually add more grades, each one including approximately 110 students. While the school is public, students must apply to fill the 460 available spots.

To prepare its students to be collegiate scholars, IDEA provides International Baccalaureate curriculum as well as the Road to College curriculum, which begins in the sixth grade.

“We’re very proud of the connection to our distinguished alumni like NASA astronaut Michael Fossum, and we want our students to recognize the kind of education we provide here. What he learned here helped catapult him into space, and we’re very proud of that.”

Norma Zamora-Guerra, McAllen Independent School District Community Information Director

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FAMILY PHYSICIANS CLINIC

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Workplace Injury?

Easter Seals Rio Grande Valley supports children of all abilities through child care services, early intervention and parenting support programs.

RioHealth Medical We are here to meet all your occupational medicine needs.

• Workplace injuries and workers’ compensation

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www.rio-health.com 32

McAllen

Early Childhood intErvEntion ChildCarE sErviCEs ParEnts as tEaChErs Easter seals rio Grande valley Programs for Children Birth to Five years: • Child-Care services – High-quality child care six weeks to five years • Parents as teachers (Pat) – Developmental parenting support for children birth to five years • Early Childhood intervention (ECi) – Concerns in development for children birth to three years

For more information about Easter seals programs and services, call (956) 631-9171 or visit www.easterseals-rgv.org.

LIVING: Health

Take a Deep Breath and Relax Residents Have Access to Top Hospitals McAllen residents receive quality care from the South Texas Health System, Rio Grande Regional Hospital and the Doctors Hospital at Renaissance. By Kevin Litwin Health System

South Texas Health System South Texas Health System is the umbrella organization for a number of fine medical facilities including McAllen Medical Center.

MMC has 441 beds and a staff of more than 400 physicians that represent 50 medical specialties.

Also part of South Texas Health System is McAllen Heart Hospital, which opened in 1996 as the first freestanding cardiology and cardiovascular hospital built in the United States. It includes 60 beds and a 24-hour emergency center.

Healthgrades has awarded McAllen Medical Center and McAllen Heart Hospital with a variety of honors in recent years, and both earned a Distinguished Hospital Award for Clinical Excellence in 2011.

Hospital

Rio Grande Regional Hospital Rio Grande Regional Hospital is an acute care medical facility with 320 beds and more than 500 physicians. The hospital is the only area Diabetes Management Center accredited by the American Diabetes Association, and is the area’s first facility to have a Pediatric Heart Program.

RGRH also includes a 24-hour emergency room, Women’s Services department, Level III trauma center, and cardiovascular care. The hospital is fully accredited

by The Joint Commission and the College of American Pathologists, and every year since 2007 has been named a Center of Excellence by the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery.

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Hospital

Doctors Hospital at Renaissance The 506-bed Doctors Hospital at Renaissance is an acute care facility. It provides cardiology, neurosurgery and endocrinology, as well as a Pediatric Medical Tower that offers pediatric oncology and pediatric ICU services.

Doctors Hospital has been ranked among the nation’s 100 Top Hospitals by Thomson Reuters, and recently invested $32 million to establish an Electronic Medical Record System.

DHR was the first in South Texas to acquire a PET/CT scanner for diagnosing cancer, and the first in the region to introduce da Vinci robotic surgical technology. The hospital also oversees Renaissance Behavioral Center, which provides treatment for people with mental health problems, substance abuse or eating disorders.

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McAllen

Community profile

cost of living

$44,074

ethnicity White

Hispanic

Black

Other

Median Household Income

$129,554 Median Home Price

$689

AGE

Median Rent for a Two-Bedroom Apartment

19 and Under 20-54 55 and Over

Transportation Median Travel Time to Work

Temperature Golf Courses July Average

GOLF TEC 2901 N 10TH ST 956-994-9631

mcallen Country Club 615 WICHITA AVE 956-686-0923

95.5°

16.45 minutes

January Average

48.2°

Closest Airport: McAllen International Airport

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Living: see the city

The National Butterfly Center

The National Butterfly Center dedicates 100 acres to the conservation and scientific study of wild butterflies in their natural habitats. The wildlife center is open daily from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m.

September through March and from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. April through August.

View a collection of photos from McAllen at livability.com/mcallen/tx/photos-video.

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McAllen

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BUSINESS Info on McAllen’s top employers, jobs and success stories

McAllen Convention Center

The McAllen Convention Center is located on 18.5 acres and includes a 60,000-square-foot exhibit hall, as well as more than 25,000 square feet of meeting space in 16 breakout rooms.

View a collection of photos from McAllen at livability.com/mcallen/tx/photos-video.

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McAllen

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Business: Overview

McAllen’s in the Money

Cultural diversity, location and innovation drive city’s top business sectors As the retail hub of South Texas, McAllen is thriving. The city draws a customer base of more than 10 million within a 200-mile radius, and is represented by 40 of America’s top 100 retailers.

By Tiffany Williams

La Plaza Mall

Pumping much of the life into this retail hub is La Plaza Mall, which annually attracts more than 18 million visitors. Its anchoring stores, such as Dillard’s and Macy’s, and sought-after retailers, including BCBG-Max Azria and Coach, average sales of more than $650 per square foot, and are among the most profitable stores in their chains.

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McAllen

Retail

Major Manufacturers

Shopping hot spots

Made for Manufacturing

This bicultural city, which is located just five miles from the U.S.-Mexico border, also has access to three international bridges that flood with visitors and eager shoppers daily, many of whom are spending at a rate twice the national average.

In addition to La Plaza Mall, shopping centers in the McAllen area include Trenton Crossing, Las Tiendas Plaza and La Plaza Mall’s 600‚000-square-foot sister shopping center, Palms Crossing, which hosts such big-name retailers as Barnes & Noble and Babies ’R’ Us, as well as specialty shops and restaurants. Its appeal stems from its open-air design with lots of palm trees, water fountains and seating areas.

Ranked third in Texas in per-capita sales, the McAllen area has some of the largest manufacturing and wholesale companies in the nation.

Valley Coca Cola Bottling Co., Value Frozen Foods and Emerson Network Power are just a few who have put down roots here. Tri-City Steel, which provides a full scope of steel construction by fabricating and erecting structural steel buildings, pre-engineered metal buildings, stairs, handrails and more. Texas Citrus Exchange in Mission makes Texas Rio Red grapefruit juice.

Meetings & Events

convention center lures visitors The McAllen Convention Center also helps draw businesses to the area. The 18.5-acre complex, featuring a 60,000-squarefoot column-free exhibit hall, more than 25,000 square feet of meeting space and up to 16 breakout rooms, offers bicultural themes and tropical accents that represent the cultural and natural diversity of McAllen.

Learn more about businesses in McAllen at livability.com/mcallen.

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business

Outside

the Box Residents get creative with business ventures

O

ne of McAllen’s most innovative startups sprang from the mind of someone who wasn’t even interested in business. Today, Dalinda Gonzalez-Alcantar is one of the area’s top entrepreneurs and is finding serious success.

McAllen entrepreneur Dalinda GonzalezAlcantar founded eJucomm LLC.

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McAllen

Banana E-Z Split

Gerald Guerra, inventor of the Banana E-Z Split single serving syrup packets, poses with his daughters, Victoria and Kaitlyn, enthusiastic taste testers for his product.

Dalinda Gonzalez-Alcantar, the founder of eJucomm LLC, simply wanted to make information in her school district more accessible to families. The company was a way she could make it happen.

She got the idea while working as a teacher at DeLeon Middle School in McAllen and was frustrated that families without computers and/or Internet access had difficulty communicating with teachers and administrators.

So she decided to develop a smartphone application that would solve the problem .

With no previous technical experience, she researched code online at night, and a year later was selling the app to various school districts.

“The app enables Android and iPhone users to access information for things like grades and attendance,” Gonzalez-Alcantar says.

The entrepreneur also faced unexpected challenges – for instance, how to tailor individual apps to the roughly seven school districts and 40 campuses that now use them. No longer teaching, she has partnered with a chief technology officer so she can focus on sales and marketing.

One of her biggest hurdles was finding legal fees to fund the startup, and a $10,000 McAllen Chamber of Commerce Innovation Grant in 2011 helped pay for a licensing agreement and intellectual property protection for eJucomm to move forward.

“I assisted in making the process more cost effective, and now we are producing laboratory-related and industrial products that will be sold around the world.”

Ellery Buchanan, FibeRio president/CEO

Banana E-Z Split Another McAllen resident, Gerald Guerra, faced a similar obstacle when developing a product called Banana E-Z Split.

A health insurance broker, Guerra was inspired at his own kitchen table to create single serving packets with all three syrups l i va b i l i t y. c o m /m c a l l e n

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44

McAllen

Business Spotlight Feldman’s Market Center Feldman’s Market Center features a broad selection of beer as well as wines, liquors, cigars and a gourmet deli.

In addition, weekly beer and wine tastings are offered.

(956) 687-9463

Perfect Paws Resort Perfect Paws Resort offers grooming services, daycare and boarding to vaccinated dogs and cats that are at least 12 weeks old. Boarding suites are climate controlled and under constant supervision. perfectpawsresort.com

McCreery Aviation Co. Inc.

FibeRio Technology Corporation Nanomaterials processing research equipment is used at FibeRio Technology Corporation.

(pineapple, chocolate, strawberry) needed for a banana split.

The concept led to a 2011 McAllen Business Plan Competition grant to fund the necessary patents.

“I envisioned a product that could hang easily in refrigerated sections at big box stores,” Guerra says. “I have lined up a distributor and a broker with my ultimate goal being to have Banana E-Z Split available to customers in large grocery chains. It is close to happening.”

FibeRio Technology Another startup in McAllen is already making waves globally. FibeRio Technology Corporation, another McAllen Chamber of Commerce Innovation Grant recipient, is thriving thanks to groundbreaking nanofiber-producing machinery. The nanofibers can be used to make products ranging from diapers to

ballistics, using a new way to spin microscopic nanofibers.

The technology serves an array of industries that feature filtration, textiles or biomedical applications.

“Dr. Karen Lozano at UT-Pan American discovered the process, and I was contacted because I am an entrepreneur familiar with launching technologybased companies including nanotechnology,” says FibeRio Technology president/CEO Ellery Buchanan. “I assisted in making the process more cost effective, and now we are producing laboratory-related and industrial products that will be sold around the world.

Plus we use local McAllen suppliers whenever possible including machine shops, parts suppliers, IT contractors and other business services.”

McCreery Aviation Co. Inc. is a place for pilots and their aircraft to receive top-notch treatment. A fuel center, flight planning room and hangar storage are available. mccreeryaviation.com

Kitikake LLC Kitikake LLC offers gentlyused vintage clothing for women from an array of top designers such as Lilly Pulitzer and Catherine Malandrino. Vintage home décor and dishes are also available. kitikake.com

Kreidler Funeral Home Founded, owned and operated by the Kreidler family, Kreidler Funeral Home has served McAllen for 100 years. They offer traditional burial and graveside funeral services, direct burials, cremations, memorial services and more. kreidlerfuneralhome.com

by Kevin Litwin, by staff photographer

Michael Conti l i va b i l i t y. c o m /m c a l l e n

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visit our

advertisers Border Capital Bank www.bordercapitalbank.com City of McAllen Public Info Office www.exploremcallen.net Courtyard by Marriott www.marriott.com/mtema Easter Seals Rio Grande Valley www.easterseals-rgv.org Edible Arrangements www.ediblearrangements.com Family Physicians Clinic www.familyphysiciansclinic.com Magic Valley Electric Cooperative www.magicvalley.coop McAllen Economic Development Corporation www.mcallenedc.org McAllen Independent School District www.mcallenisd.org McAllen International Airport www.mcallenairport.com McAllen Realty Mr. Electric www.mrelectric.com Nuevo Santander Gallery www.nuevosantander.com OH KAY’S! Preventative Care Institute www.rgvpci.com Quinta Mazatlan www.quintamazatlan.com Rio Health Medical www.rio-health.com South Texas College www.southtexascollege.edu South Texas Health System www.southtexashealthsystem.com The Patio on Guerra www.patioonguerra.com Valley International Airport www.flythevalley.com

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McAllen

business: Chamber report

What’s the Big Idea?

Chamber’s readiness tool kit assists entrepreneurs The McAllen Chamber of Commerce has helped prepare 25 McAllen entrepreneurs in the continuing quest to launch their ideas – all since July 2011.

The Chamber has a software package called Venture/Business Readiness Assessment, which is used by states such as Oklahoma and Kentucky to assist startup companies. The software helps an entrepreneur through the entire process of seeing whether they are truly ready to launch their startup.

“Venture/Business Readiness Assessment is a way that the Chamber assists entrepreneurs who are trying to get funding for their products or projects,” says Steve Ahlenius, who serves as President and CEO of the McAllen Chamber of Commerce. “The Chamber awards $50,000 a year in innovation grants in $10,000 increments, and entrepreneurs are always looking for funding.

But they must earn that money by passing the various stages of the software tool kit.”

Ten Hours to Complete

The McAllen Chamber of Commerce on Ash Avenue

Ahlenius says the assessment has several specific steps to make sure that a startup company has everything in place to ensure that it is successful.

“The entrepreneurs contact us and set up an appointment to see me; then they come to the Chamber office, we sign them up and give them passwords to access the software at their convenience,” he says. “[The program] takes about 10 hours to complete, but doesn’t have to be finished in one sitting.

However, the program must be eventually completed in order to qualify for our innovation grant.”

made quickly? Have you set a value on your idea, and do you know how to do that? If it’s a product that involves high-tech engineering, do you have an engineer on your company’s team?

“The entrepreneur needs to know if his venture is worth 20 shares of stock or 200 shares – things like that,” Ahlenius says.

“Many factors go into launching a product or business, and Venture Readiness points out a person’s strengths and weaknesses.”

Can It Be Made Quickly?

A Great Overview

The software asks questions such as: Have you protected your intellectual property? Is your product something that can be

Vicente Valle Martinez of McAllen is an entrepreneur who contacted the Chamber in 2012 about his idea for connecting

people on the Internet who have similar educational experiences and higher learning interests.

“I have no background in business but heard one day about an innovation grant competition that the Chamber was sponsoring,” Martinez says. “Steve told me about the software package, and it gave me a great overview of what I need to know before launching my idea.”

Ahlenius says the various concepts the software package covers include credentials, character, capabilities, commitment and circumstance.

“It is an excellent self-awareness test,” he says. “It’s ideal for entrepreneurs.”

by Kevin Litwin

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Ad Index

41 Border Capital Bank

C4 McAllen Realty

21 City of McAllen Public Info Office

48 Mr. Electric

46 Nuevo Santander Gallery

35 OH KAY’S!

34 Preventative Care Institute

23 Quinta Mazatlan

32 Rio Health Medical

31 South Texas College

4 Courtyard By Marriott

32 Easter Seals Rio Grande Valley

44 Edible Arrangements

32 Family Physicians Clinic

2 Magic Valley Electric Cooperative

C3 McAllen Economic Development Corporation

46 McAllen Independent School District

1 McAllen International Airport

C2 South Texas Health System 18 The Patio on guerra 44 Valley International Airport

economic profile Scorecard

$3.6B Annual Retail Sales

$28,682 Retail sales per capita

education level High School Graduate Associate Degree Bachelor’s Degree Master’s Degree

Taxes

2%

$357.5M Annual Hotel and Food Sales

15,161 Total Number of Firms

Total Sales Tax

This section is sponsored by

$150,000-199,999 $100,000 and under

Transportation

3,000+

McAllen Independent School District

2,0002,999

McAllen Medical Center, South Texas College, City of McAllen

State Sales Tax

8.25%

$200,000+

Top Employers

City Sales and Use Tax

6.25%

household income

1,999500

Rio Grande Regional Hospital, International Bank of Commerce

McAllen-Miller International Airport www.mcallenairport.com Metro McAllen www.mcallen.net/metro Amtrak www.amtrak.com

everything you need,

every step of the way Serving the r io grande valley Since 1989 Rachel Hardison-Oliva, Broker 3321 N. McColl Rd. McAllen, TX 78501 (956) 687-7172 • (956) 687-7178 Fax