Contempo March
2009
UPPER VALLEY CULTURE / BUSINESS / POLITICS / FASHION / TECHNOLOGY
In This Issue Border Security Do We Need the Military?
STYLISH FOOTWEAR for the Latina Employee Free Choice Act Impact on Valley Business
UTPA Folkloric DANCERS ON STAGE Contempo Pioneer
BUILDING Relationships in a STIFF MARKET
Gabrela Uresti
On Politics Hard Shift Left?
Sharpen Your Selling Skills with PCA
DEALING with IDENTITY THIEFT e mails & docs
Diversified Portofolios in Turbulent Times
BOOK REVIEW
UTPA Planetarium
the Valley’s No. 1 On-Line Magazine
Cover photo-Gabriela Uresti at Old Hidalgo Pumphouse page 1the ContempoMag.com
Quisqueya Bakery & Restaurant Authentic Dominican Cakes amd Cuisine
Let Us Bring Out the Dominican in You with World Class Pasterties.
Awarded “Best Dessert� 2009 International Food Festival, McAllen Chamber of Commerce Vianca Monroe
3503 N. Ware Rd. / McAllen / one block south of Nolana page 2 ContempoMag.com
956-627-3325
Some things are best discribed with a European Accent.
Candiles Europeos Exquisite Custom Lighting 630.3930 / fax 630.6275 217 S. Bicentennial McAllen Heart of the City the Valley’s No. 1 On-Line Magazine
page 3 ContempoMag.com
Sanctuary Spa LAZER HAIR REMOVAL EXPERTS Full Face Hair Removal $450 Full Legs Hair Removal $950 Upper Lip & Chin $250 Upper Lip, Bikini, Underarms $550 Body Lazer (5 areas) $1500 Facial Special (Tues/Wed only) Micro Special (Tues/Wed only) Massage & Facial Special
SPECIAL PRICED SPRING PACKAGES
$50 $60 $120
Facials / RF 300 for Body Contouring / Microdermabrasion Massage / Complete Skin Care / Spider Veins Removal Special Event Packages for Brides / Make-up applications Lazer Hair Removal / Day Spa Events *All lazer packages include 7 sessions & flexible payment options
1301 East Fern Rd. / Suite C-2 / McAllen, Texas 78501 / Ph. 956 . 637 . 2700
Contempo UPPER VALLEY CULTURE / BUSINESS / POLITICS / FASHION / TECHNOLOGY
Sales Position Available
Candiles Europeos
Contempo Magazine, the most widely circulated glossy in the Upper Valley, is growing and is expanding our sales force. We are looking for sales representatives with advertising sales experience. Join the magazine with great appeal and premium content. We have existing leads and professional sales training to help you boost your income quickly. Join the publication that stands out above the ad jungle. Call 956.467.7880 to inquire.
Exquisite Custom Lighting 630.3930 / fax 630.6275 217 S. Bicentennial McAllen Heart of the City
Contempo The Lifestyle Variety Magazine for the Upper Valley
ContempoMag.com The Valley’s #1 On-Line Magazine
In This Issue
Contempo is a publication of Contempo Magazine Inc. All opinions represented are of the authors & not necessarily the views of the publisher. The publisher makes no representations regarding advertising content. Contempo Magazine is a trademark of Contempo Magazine Inc. All rights reserved. All content published and constructed by Contempo Magazine is the property of Contempo Magazine Inc. Permission for reprint shall be granted only upon written request and authorized release from Contempo Magazine Inc.
President/Ralph Magaña Editor/Raul Cabrera Computer Technology Coorespondent/Michael Bilyeu Staff Writer Business & Latin American Affairs/Tony Magaña Medical Issues/Diane Carbo RN General Business Issues/Stacy Karacostas Fashion Correspondent/Vanessa Valente Culture Writer/Crystal Felici Personal Finance/Melissa Magaña Ad Sales/Ralph Magaña Distribution Manager/Rosa Lopez Assc. Editor/Webpage Editor-Tony Magaña 956-467-7880 e-mail: wmagana@rgv.rr.com web site: www.contempomag.com Suite B, PMB#170, 2403 N. 10th. St. McAllen, Tx 78501
Printed in Mexico
Stylish Footwear for the Latina
8
Employee Free Choice Act Impact on Valley Business
12
Building Relationships in a Stiff Market
16
Sharpen Your Selling Skills with PCA
18
Diversified Portofolios in Turbulent Times
20
UTPA’s Window to Outer Space
22
Border Security, Do We Need the Army?
26
The Drama of Romance & Revolution UTPA Folkoric Dancers
28
Contempo Pioneer-Gabriela Uresti
34
On Politics-Should there be a Hard Swing? 38 Identity Thieft thru Email & Attachments 41 Memories thru Art-Irma Garza Garcia
42
On the Menu-Foods of the D. R.
45
Contempo Book Review
46
the Valley’s No. 1 On-Line Magazine
page 5 ContempoMag.com
page 6 ContempoMag.com
Agujas. Let your waiter know if you don’t want a thick cut.
Open Late Friday & Saturday ANTOJITOS PARRILLADAS MARISCOS POSTRES STEAKS CALDOS COSTILLAS COCKTAILS (956) 994-8181 / McColl & Exp. 83
Friday-Saturday Sunday-Thursday am-2:00 ampage11:00 am-Midnight the Valley’s No. 1 On-Line 11:00 Magazine 7 ContempoMag.com
A TRADITION OF FLAVOR
Stylish Footwear for the Latina by Vanessa Valente You cannot judge another person until you
have walked a mile in their shoes…unless of course the shoes in question are hideous. It’s time for the ladies of the Rio Grande Valley to kick off your aging mules and wiggle your toes into something a little more you. Let your soles match your soul with some appropriately stylish, up–to-date kicks. Selecting shoes for an outfit depends entirely on the task at end. A heel perfect for a lunch date with a friend could be entirely out of place in the office so before you dress think who to impress. WORK Your work attire needs to evoke an aura of respect, intelligence and efficiency. Strappy stilettos, sneakers and sandals must stay in the closet. Instead look into the current trends with a timeless look. The round toe, the pointed toe and the peep toe are wonderful options for work. As for the heel, you need to be comfortable so you can do your job well, but still look professional and feel powerful. Ergo a heel is important but the height is not. Ignore the five-inch heel fad raging down the runway and steer towards the one to three inch uplift. Save the platform for the weekend. When choosing the color, pattern and details try to have a little more fun. Your clothing should most likely turn towards the conservative, freeing up your feet for personal expression. Compliment your pantsuit with a pop off color. Eva Longoria proves that yellow gold heels are fabulous when she left her new restaurant Beso last March sporting a pair. Try paring these with a cream suit for a chic but appropriate look. An unexpected color combination can also look dazzling in the workplace. Check out the nude Christian Louboutins that Longoria wore to The Critics Choice Awards this year and pair them with a black pencil skirt and a red blouse. If you are looking to indulge in a few up-tothe-minute styles for work, look into the reptile leather phenomenon to flatter your suit. CASUAL Running errands, lunches and shopping most definitely involve a relaxed mood, but there is no need to skimp page 8 ContempoMag.com
on looks. As someone once said, always dress as if you perk up your lounge pants. will run into your ex. Whether it be your ex-husband, ex-friend, ex-boss or ex-lover that you bump into at DRESSY Some live for it, some dread it, but going out for the the grocery, you know you want to look first-rate. evening is a time to splurge on fashion. Heels are absoA close toe option is best if you are looking for a lutely untamed right now. Those small details dancing little warmth and protection from the outside elements. on the casual shoes will explode on your party shoes, Skip the athletic shoes, unless you are actually going to but that doesn’t mean you are obligated to participate. exercise. An alternative would be a fun pair of modern When you are going to a nice dinner, hitting the jazz Keds or fabric flats. These are generally as comfort- club or working on your salsa moves your heels must able as a tennis shoe but are actually stylish. Another be gorgeous, but functional. timeless but modern option is the ballet flat as seen habitually on Jessica Alba and Vanessa Hudgens. Or- If you are one who loves height look into the platform thopedic ballet flats by Pikolinos are a comfortable but trend. Omit the disco shoes you picture when you fabulous option for women who prioritize foot health. hear the word platform and embrace the contemporary meaning. Designers are putting chic platforms on Today’s trend for casual sandals is where the fun en- stilettos in order to reach the trendy elevation demand sues. 2009 is the year your feet get to dress up. Exot- without killing your arch. ic details are essential. Think gladiators, studs, jewels, stones or even a bird. Anna Sui’s Egyptian-inspired Another style to treat yourself to is the feature heel. sandals displaying a feathered friend were stunning at The heel is no longer simply structural support, it is a this year’s preview. Any of these wild particulars on statement. There are heels available in silver twists, a your flats or sandals will give any jeans and tee outfit heel made of lizard and even heels resembling figurines. the wow factor. A pair of detailed sandals will even Finally something truly different has graced our fashion
present. More classic options are pairs in à la mode patterns or colors. A pump that starts as purple at the toe and flows into yellow in the back will look daring. Unusual shades like mustard, lavender, emerald green and rose will be beautiful while painted florals, animal skin, and color blocking will be stand out. Carlos Santana is a fantastic label too for such goodies. From work to play step out of your style comfort zone, but keep in mind that while selecting high fashion shoes keep the discomfort low. Foot problems are never en vogue and an awkward strut is worse. Fashionable kicks should express your personality and compliment your lifestyle. Editors Note: Vanessa Valiente is a noted costume designer for cinema,television, and stage. Her credits include the series, “FashionHouse”. She has been a personal stylist for many Hollywood celebrities. And Vanessa’s Valley exclusives appear each month in Contempo Magazine. Her fashion blog for men and women is www.v-style.typepad.com.Her website is http://www.vanessavaliente.com/home.html See her movie credits on the internet movie database at http://www.imdb.com/ name/nm2378827/
CELEBRATE YOUR EVENT WITH US STEAKS, SEAFOOD, & PASTA SUSHI BAR COMING SOON!
HAPPY HOUR SPECIALS & LIVE MUSIC
W W W . T A S T E R G V. C O M
THURSDAY, FRIDAY, & SATURDAY NIGHTS ON THE PATIO 6 -10PM
MON - FRI 11AM - 3PM LUNCH THURS & FRI 5 -10PM DINNER SATURDAY 5PM - 9:30PM DINNER SUNDAY BRUNCH BUFFET 10:30AM - 2PM
702 S TEXAS BLVD // WESLACO TX 78596 // (956) 968-5544
the Valley’s No. 1 On-Line Magazine
page 9 ContempoMag.com
Advertising copyright © 2008 A’LOR International LTD. CHARRIOL® is a registered trademark of the Philippe Charriol Group.
CMYK
Arena Sport Biretro
www.geraldgenta.com
Charriol 6x9 postcard.indd 1
2/22/08 12:03:05 PM
deutschjewelers.com md_Deutsch & Deutsch.qxp:2008
TMADWA1085_1113878_1.indd 1
17-11-2008
17:51
Ad No: #530 Gerald Genta Arena Sport Biretro – Deutsch & Deutsch Publication: Mailer Date: November 2007 Size/Color: 6" x 11" 4/C
Pagina 1
11/24/08 6:21:35 PM
cartolina 127x178
© 2007 Cartier
MCL-Laredo.indd 1
Publication: Issue: Trim: Advertiser: Ad: GIGA#
23-10-2007
12:58
Pagina 1
10/14/08 5:32:23 PM
Deutsch & Deutsch Jewelers
Deutsch & Deutsch McAllen mailer December 2008 6” x 11” Deutsch & Deutsch Jewelers Cartier Ballon Bleu SG PUWA1225 CT57910
page 10 ContempoMag.com
McAllen I 956-994-9370
LIVE MUSIC ON THE PATIO Featuring THURSDAY Cleo & Evey FRIDAY Ensamble La Mision (world music) SATURDAY Wyndsor (variety band) Lunch Daily Special $7 Mon-Fri 11am-3pm Dinner Thu, Fri, Sat 5-10pm SundayBuffet Brunch $8 10:30am-2pm
702 South Texas Blvd. 956.968.5544
Looking for MidValley Entertainment? Try the Patio at Taste
Weslaco Texas 702 South Texas Blvd. www.tastergv.com 956.968.5544
Weslaco Texas www.tastergv.com
La Plaza Del Sol office
An address with expression restaurant spa office suites 3400 N. McColl McAllen
executive suites amenities: elite security/digital cam passcard access/furnished suites 1 bill turnkey leasing star ting at $400/month between Fern & Nolana on Nor th McColl Rd/McAllen
ONE MONTH FREE RENT! CALL BARNEY MALONE AT 956.926.9103 OR 956.631.1100 BMALONE@LAPLAZADELSOL.NET the Valley’s No. 1 On-Line Magazine
FIRST MONTH RENT FREE! page 11 ContempoMag.com
THE EMPLOYEE FREE CHOICE ACT IS ANTI-STIMULUS FOR THE VALLEY AND TEXAS By Tony Magaña
A
merican labor leaders are looking to Obama and the Democratic majority in the Congress to finally pass (H.R. 800), the Employee Free Choice Act of 2007 which passed the House but was held up in the 2007 Senate by a cloture vote. Labor leaders proclaim that change is needed in worker organization law because the current law is too skewed to management. Overall in the United States, only about 12 percent of all American workers are unionized. They note that over the past 20 years in the private sector there has been a significant decrease from nearly a quarter of the private sector workforce being unionized to only about 9 percent currently. Real wages have decreased steadily while worker productivity has increased over that same period, they maintain. Unionized workers make an average of 28% more in wages and have a sixty percent greater chance of having health insurance than unorganized workers. Labor proponents complain that the federal government has for some time hampered organization efforts through a weak National Labor Relations Board, which has allowed thousands of illegal firings. Current law requires that any company with at least three employees and a gross income of $3 million dollars must have a majority vote by secret ballot to become a unionized work place. Under the new law, if a majority of employees sign a card favoring unionization, then a mandatory negotiating process would immediately proceed within ten days. The law would provide for mandatory federal arbitrators to oversee negotiations who have wide authority over company matters such as budget outlays, plant shutdowns, retirement funds, number of employees, elimination of subcontracting or outsourcing, and health care coverage. IMPACT ON HISPANIC LABOR, BUSINESS & VALLEY LEVERAGE page 12 ContempoMag.com
While the Northeast and Midwest United States–which have had traditionally high levels of union workers–are suffering the most severe economic crisis, the State of Texas (which has very low levels of unionization) has been much less affected by the crisis.
wages, cheap land, very business friendly state and local governments, trade with Mexico, a local cultural tradition of working hard ethos, and minimal mortgage crisis debt compared with other parts of the country have allowed the area to have continued economic growth. Another important factor has been the symbiotic relationship that seems to occur between native Hispanic business owners and immigrant workers who share While the Northeast and Midwest United States–which both cultural identity and values. have had traditionally high levels of union workers–are suffering the most severe economic crisis, the State LOW WAGE, LIVING EXPENSE DILEMMA & of Texas (which has very low levels of unionization) DELICATE DEPENDENCE ON FREE TRADE has been much less affected by the crisis. The highest All is not perfect in the “Valley” as it is called by locals. concentration of Hispanics in the United States can be Despite the tremendous growth in Hispanics who atfound in the region along the South Texas-Mexico bor- tend college and have availability to advanced education in the region, there is a major brain drain of young colder called the Rio Grande Valley (RGV). lege graduates out of the area. Very low living expenses The RGV, like other areas of the old South, has seen allow a working population to live better than they othsteady growth in jobs and their economy compared erwise would in other regions of the country, but still with the Northeast and Midwest. Competitive low they have overall comparatively low wages which are Historically, Hispanics–and especially Hispanic women–have had very low numbers in union organizations. Less than 10% of the Hispanic workforce is unionized in the United States. Many Hispanic political organizations and Hispanic legislators including Henry Cuellar and Ruben Hinojosa from South Texas voted in favor of H.R. 800.
Where Paradise is at Your Doorstep. Investment and financial services • Annuities • Insurance
Discover Central Mexico, Discover Tequis
Access to lending services through our affiliates • IRAS certificates of deposit (FDIC insured) • Access to trust services through our affiliates* • Estate planning
Nautha No. 6, Col. Centro C.P. Tequisquiapan, Qro. www.villaflorencia.com.mx 414-273 30 29
Laura Magana, AAMS Vice President – Investments laura.magana@wachoviasec.com Melissa Magana Financial Advisor melissa.magana@wachoviasec.com
Hotel Villa Florencia Tequisquiapan, Qro. Mex. www.villaflorencia.com.mx 414-273 30 29
Building D1 4900 North 10th Street North Towne Center McAllen, TX 78504 959-687-7211 • 800-356-9202
* Wachovia Securities does not render tax or legal advice. Securities and Insurance Products: NOT INSURED BY FDIC OR ANY FEDERAL GOVERNMENT AGENCY • MAY LOSE VALUE • NOT A DEPOSIT OF OR GUARANTEED BY A BANK OR ANY BANK AFFILIATE Wachovia Securities, LLC, Member NYSE / SIPC, is a registered broker dealer and a separate nonbank affiliate of Wachovia Corporation. ©2008 Wachovia Securities, LLC 89868 0508-88524 6/08
Ocean of Love Healing Center Tired but still pushing yourself forward? Given up hope on weight loss or fatigue issues? Tried all the standard solutions with no results? Are you feeling really sad and depressed but you put on your happy face anyway? Are you searching for a practical way to improve? “Ocean of Love is a refreshing approach that uses the healing power of nature and love to stimulate your body to heal itself, applying lifestyle changes and natural remedies. We can help you achieve your health goals by discovering and understanding hidden causes of health challenges.” Achieve Higher Energy Levels Increased Well-Being Weight Loss & Happier Mood Improved State of Mind Dr. Patricia R. Felici Doctor of Alternative Medicine Doctor of Clinical Nutrition Artist 6900 N 10th Suite 2 McAllen, Texas 78504 ph# 956-971-0040 pfelici@aol.com www.patriciafelici.com www.oceanoflovehealing.com the Valley’s No. 1 On-Line Magazine
page 13 ContempoMag.com
“unsustainable,” according to the Lower Rio Grande Valley Development Council. Most low-skilled, lowwage employees work for small businesses. The region is extremely dependent upon current free trade agreements with Mexico to maintain the local economy, which is in peril by the new administration. DEVESTATING IMPLICATIONS FOR THE VALLEY WITH PASSAGE OF EMPLOYEE FREE CHOICE ACT The RGV will see significant and perhaps devastating changes if the Employee Free Choice Act becomes law. Hundreds of outside union organizers are expected to come to workplaces like local restaurant chains, automobile dealerships, construction companies, hospitals, school districts, grocery stores, and other businesses. Hispanic owners of businesses will not be allowed to advise or discuss unionization at all with their employees. There is a risk that rivalry between competing unions would allow coercion of workers whose employee cards would allow public scrutiny of not only whether they support a union but also which union they might want. The conservative Heritage Foundation reported documented cases of workers who suffered threats to their families when the card check system publicly revealed their opinion against unionization. While it is unfair to say the unions’ demands for high wages and benefits is the only cause for the economic downturn in the “Rustbelt,” it was clearly a contributory factor. What will happen to the competitiveness of the Rio Grande Valley and other areas in the South if they have to immediately deal with wage increases of 28% or more? What will happen to the symbiotic relationship that has been instrumental in the advancement of Hispanics in the Southwest between Hispanic management and labor when it has a new outside labor mediator imposed?
Not only will existing businesses be affected but there will be placed, a severe inhibition for new entrepreneurs to start new businesses in the area.
The crucial issue of health care coverage has been a disaster when it has been handled by managementlabor negotiations as evidenced by the General Motors dilemma. No doubt health care costs too much and is too little available to workers, but the solution to this problem will not come from this platform but instead must be solved by national legislation restructuring the health care system. Enacting this labor law reform beParty was so incensed at the lack of fairness to workers fore health care reform is a recipe for disaster. that in 2001 they sent a letter to Mexico demanding that Taking away the low-cost labor advantage, and espe- secret ballot should be used in all union elections. How cially in the environment of a mitigated free trade agree- can it be possibly that American members of Congress ment, will result in higher unemployment for the low- believe that Mexican workers should have the right to wage, low-skilled Hispanics who make up the majority secret ballot in union elections but American members of the RGV workforce. Not only will existing businesses should not? be affected but there will be placed, a severe inhibition for new entrepreneurs to start new businesses in the area. The rare regional success in the current economic crisis will be turned into another “Rustbelt.”
Many in the Hispanic labor and business community are aware of the union corruption so virulent in our neighboring country to the south. The Democratic page 14 ContempoMag.com
ers need more protections in their security of employment and health coverage but these should come under general employment law standards. Corporate transparency must be increased so that patterns of unfair labor practices are able to be found and punished. The founders of the Constitution intended that individual states would be laboratories of innovation in commerce and this concept would be crushed by the sledge hamGENERAL EMPLOYMENT STANDARDS, EM- mer effect of the Employee Free Choice Act. PLOYEE SECURITY & STATE’S ABILITIES TO Tony Magaña grew up in McAllen Texas, attended Texas A&M INNOVATE The right to workers to organize is a cherished and es- University, served as an officer in Army Reserve, and holds a doctorsential tradition; however, at the same time, America ate from Harvard University. The co-founder of Contempo Magazine has participated in Valley business for over 20 years.He is a has seen fit that some aspects of the worker-employer member of the National Association of Hispanic Journalists. relationship should come under general legal supervision such as minimum wage standards. American work-
Indepth Shoes for Diabetic Patients Largest Selections in the Valley Most Products Medicare Approved Free Home Evaluation Visits No Waiting with Most Styles Avail. In-Stock W. Bus. 83
S. Bryan Rd
CITY PLAZA E. Expressway 83
N
409 N. Bryan Rd. Suite 106 CITY PLAZA Mission / Texas / 78572 jvargas3311@aol.com / 956.584.9442 / 877.584.9442 Monday-Friday 9am-6pm / Saturday 9am-2pm (all fittings by on staff certified pedortist)
District at McAllen
3300 North McColl
Commercial Lease Space 2500 - 5000 sq. ft. McAllen’s Premier Location on McColl, south of Nolana Unlimited Parking Colorful Night Lighting All Frontage Call Barney Malone at 956-926-9103 / 631-1100 for a facility tourpage 15 the Valley’s No. 1 On-Line Magazine
ContempoMag.com
Small Business Insight with Stacy Karacostas BUILD RELATIONSHIPS TO MAKE THE SALE IN A STIFF MARKET
+ Offering a free report + Public speaking live or via teleseminars or webinars + Giving away a trial size or introductory version + Adding helpful audio or video to your website
2) Stay in front of them. You want your target customers to recognize your name and/or brand, and begin thinking of you in positive terms. Familiarity breeds confidence because people start to feel they know you. And they see that you aren't just going to be here today, gone tomorrow. Plus, studies have shown that when given a choice between two identical items, people will choose the one who's brand name is most familiar every time.
3) Create a series of complemen-
Lots of entrepreneurs struggle
to know, like and trust you. The sales will autotary products or services at differwhen it comes to making sales. Though there are matically follow. many possible reasons for this, I've found one ent price points. mistake in particular that small business own- Here's another way to look at it. Think of your ers make time and again. This is something that business like an old-fashioned swimming hole. Someone who is not willing to sign up for your kills sales–especially sales of higher priced items– Now, most people are not going to just jump in $3000 seminar might happily risk buying a like nothing else. Luckily, it is also fairly easy to when they first get to a new swimming hole–es- $19.95 e-book, or taking a free teleseminar. avoid. pecially if they can't see the bottom. So offer some things that are free, then others that Instead, they might start by dipping a toe in to test are gradually more expensive. People may start So what is this big mistake? the water temperature, or asking how deep the out downloading your free information. But once Asking for the sale too soon! water is, and whether the bottom is sandy, rocky they see the value you deliver, they will come or slimy. Once they feel more confident that the back for more. All too often small business owners are so focused experience is going to be what they want, they on making a sale right now today, they're oblivimight wade in a ways before fully submerging. If you're doing all this, then the key to ongoing ous to what's going on in the prospect's mind. So sales success is making sure that everything you they come up empty handed time after time. And If all goes well, then they might think about produce–whether you give it away or sell it–is they fail to build a community of repeat customjumping in off surrounding cliffs, or hitting the high-quality, valuable and helpful. Because the ers who buy from them time and again. Here's rope swing because now they know the water is first impression you make will determine whethwhy: People don't like to be sold, they like to buy. plenty, deep and warm. Of course, some folks are er or not they come back again. And they like to buy from someone they know, willing to risk it and dive in right away–especially like and trust. On top of that, people jump at the if someone who's done it before says it is okay. Once potential customers see that you know your chance to buy things they really believe are going And that's fine. Nothing's stopping them. But stuff, and have solutions for their problems and to be of value to them. most people are going to want to ease in to one needs, they will begin to trust you and buy more degree or another. and more of your fabulous products and services. So if they don't know who you are, or the value you, your products or your services have to offer, So the key to getting more people to buy from So don't just try to sell. Focus on building a relachances are they won't risk spending their hardyou–especially high-dollar items–is to create a se- tionship in steps and letting people get to know earned dollars with you; especially if what you ries of smaller steps that let them wade in and test you, and the sales will automatically follow. are selling costs more than $100. After all, would the waters before taking a bigger, more risky leap. you pay $3000 for a two-day seminar from somePractical Marketing Expert How? It's simple really... Stacy Karacostas- author of one you've never heard of? What about $1200? "110 Practical Marketing Tips Or even $500? Probably not.
1) Always offer plenty of free information. There's lots of ways to do this, including:
Because, unless someone gives you a direct referral, how do you know you are going to get your money's worth? Or any value at all? For all you know, it could be a big scam or one long sales + Mailing out a regular newsletter pitch. And your potential customers often feel the + Putting free useful content on your website same way. So instead of pushing people to buy + Starting an e-zine and/or blog your products or services, give them ways to get page 16 ContempoMag.com
for Growing Your Small Business", the 2-page marketing plan workbook "Putting Your Business on the Road to Success", and "The Small Business Website Bible"-specializes in taking the stress, struggle and confusion out of growing your small business.
With More Branches Closer to You
And the Best Banking Hours in the Upper Valley. We Do More. Find a 7-Day Location near you 2200 S. 10th St. / 688-3760 Monday-Saturday 8 am-8pm Sunday 11 am-6 pm
La Plaza Mall-West
2200 S. 10th St. / 688-3660 Monday-Saturday 9 am-8 pm Sunday 11 am-6 pm
Wall-Mart McAllen
1200 E. Jackson / 688-3685 Monday-Saturday 9 am-8 pm Sunday 11 am-6 pm
La Plaza Mall-Nolana
4001 N. 23rd St. / 688-3620 Monday-Saturday 9 am-8 pm Sunday 11 am-6 pm
La Plaza Mall-Weslaco
1310 N. Texas / 937-9500 Monday-Saturday 9 am-8 pm Sunday 11 am-6 pm
Wall-Mart Edinburg
1724 W. University Dr. / 688-3690 Monday-Saturday 9 am-8 pm Sunday 11 am-6 pm
Wall-Mart Mission
“Another Way We Do More, so You can Do More...even on Sunday.”
2410 E. Exp. 83 / 688-3625 Monday-Saturday 9 am-8 pm Sunday 12 am-5 pm
HEB In-Store Mission
200 E. Griffin Pkwy / 632-3512 Monday-Saturday 9 am-8 pm Sunday 11 am-6 pm
Wal-Mart Alamo
FDIC
Member FDIC / International Bancshares Corporation
Wal-Mart In-Store Palmhurst
215 E. Mile 3 Rd. / 688-3675 Monday-Saturday 9 am-8pm Sunday 12 am-5 pm
Hidalgo Branch
1023 S. Bridge / 688-3665 Lobby Monday-Saturday 9 am-6 pm Saturday 9 am-5 pm Sunday 12 am-5 pm Drive Thru Monday-Friday 7:30 am-6 pm Sat. 8 am-5 pm Sunday 12 pm-5 pm
El Banquito
301 S. 10th St. / 688-3610 Lobby Monday-Saturday 8:30 am-6 pm Saturday 9 am-5 pm Sunday 12 pm-5 pm Drive Thru Monday-Friday 7:30 am-5 pm
Trenton Branch
7124 N. 23rd / 630-9310
HEB In-Store Weslaco
1004 N. Texas / 968-5551 Monday-Saturday 9 am-8 pm Sunday 12 am-5 pm
107 Branch Edinburg 2201 W. University Dr.
Lobby Monday-Friday 9 am-6 pm Saturday 9 am-6 pm Sunday 12 pm-5 pm Drive Thru Monday-Friday 7:30 am-5 pm Sat. 8 am-5 pm Sunday 12 pm-5 pm
HEB In-Store Pecan
3601 Pecan McAllen Monday-Saturday 9 am-8 pm Sunday 12 pm-5 pm
Wal-Mart McColl/McAllen 4101 N. McColl Rd. Monday-Saturday 9 am-8 pm Sunday 11 am-6 pm
IBC McAllen Area 7 Day Locations
La Plaza Mall-East
Lobby Monday-Friday 8:30 am-6 pm Saturday 9 am-5 pm Sunday 12 am-5 pm Drive Thru Monday-Friday 7:30 am-6 pm Sat. 8 am-5 pm Sunday 12 pm-5 pm
HEB In-Store Shary/Mission
San Juan Juniors
2900 W. Exp. 83 / McA. Conven. Ctr.
108 E. FM 495 / 630-9320 Monday-Saturday 9 am-8 pm Sunday 11 am-5 pm
I Road Branch Pharr
2409 E. Exp. 83 Monday-Saturday 9 am-8 pm Sunday 12 pm-6 pm
Palms Crossing/McAllen
Lobby Monday-Saturday 9 am-8 pm Sunday 11 am-5 pm Drive Thru Monday-Saturday 7:30 am-8 pm Sunday 11 am-5 pm
1007 North I Road / 688-3655
Wall-Mart Mission
Lobby Monday-Friday 8:30 am-6 pm Saturday 9 am-5 pm Sunday 12 pm-6 pm Drive Thru MOnday-Friday 7:30 am-6 pm Sat. 8 am-5 pm Suday 12 pm-5 pm
HEB In-Store Palmview
1421 W. Frontage Rd. / 688-3645 Monday-Saturday 9 am-8 pm Sunday112On-Line am-5 pm the Valley’s No. Magazine
2410 E. Exp. 83 / 688-3625 Monday-Saturday 9 am-8 pm Sunday 12 am-5 pm
2410 E. Exp. 83 Monday-Saturday 9 am-8 pm Sunday 12 pm-5 pm page 17 ContempoMag.com
Performance Selling
with Ralph Magaña
Pre-Call Analysis Sharpen Your Selling Skills for the Tough Times Ahead Honing in on the right sales approach is the first step towards closing the sale and should start long before the first handshake. Nothing lowers one’s high hopes more than the blank, unavailing stare from across the desk as you launch into a canned presentation. Or, on the brighter side, there is nothing more rewarding than knowing you will make the sale before ever meeting your prospect. The later is much more likely if a sincere and objective pre-approach/pre-call analysis process takes place before the call. Quite simply, it is hanging out in the car contemplating for a bit, but it should involve a number of tasks that any veteran will tell you, significantly increases the odds of success. Pre-call analysis (PCA) generally occurs just before the entrance and always begins with simple observations that provide initial indications about the prospect profile. The appearance of the place of business, how the logo is designed or how the staff first treat you, all can have a bearing on what you can expect once you reach the back office. I prefer to stretch out the process through the greeting because much can be learned up to that point and the grab for vital information always seems to reach a peak up to that point. The clues are usually everywhere for making and exploiting meaningful impressions. Some examples among many: -office decor -signage inside & out -staff dress & mannerisms -selection of magazines in lobby -displayed photos & art -office protocols These impressions can lead you to put the prospect into proper perspective and position them into one or more personality types. For example, if a prospective insurance lead has on her lobby table copies of Image Magazine and Reef Diving, it’s a good bet that she is into submersible cameras and better yet if you are too. What if you never saw this solitary flag and opted for page 18 ContempoMag.com
the typical copy of Time while waiting on the call? 5) Make Conversation. You can learn a lot on the Indeed, on cold calls these little messages can be valu- wait with chat or “small talk” as long as it has purable with little time to prepare. pose of discovery. Waiting to see a physician can be mind-boggling. Lets face it, they have acutely painful How to Get Started: patients in line and if he is late, the drill doesn’t call 1) All sales material can be organized to ensure a for interruptions. Not even letting you know he can’t smooth transition before the presentation and one see you until much later! Luckily, the staff is patiently should review any preliminary notes regarding the last awaiting his arrival from the hospital and has time to call. It’s not cool to forget a prospect request or to chat. Just make your “small talk” about when is really forget the contracts before going in. the best to see him and don’t waste any time, he might show up. You could learn a lot or hang out and just 2) PCA should incorporate a roughly planned visual- read Time. ization of the call. Most peak performers in sports use visualization extensively to prepare before an action 6) Never be overbearing or obstructive while doing a that they know will build their confidence and increase PCA. Don’t take more from an observation than what the odds for success. In golf, visualizing the shot and is truly there, a possible indication of profile. Other how you achieved it before the attempt is made is a indicators should shore up your thoughts. Also, it is given, and with basketball its the same with penalty essential to be courteous and empathetic. No one apshots. preciates the sticky stranger extending the visit when things get hectic. Peak performing sales people rely heavily on visualization prior to the call as well. It gives us a chance 7) Have fun with PCA and your proficiency will imto develop expectations based on real evidence, prove sooner because you will begin to consider it as improves our delivery and confidence, and helps us a creative tool rather than some mundane procedure. identify important flagable traits that can give our sales And don’t be a stiff around the staff, first impressions approach and call more direction. As the prospect are made of you too! profile develops your focus on confidence building, pre-visualization of an effective sales call will improve. Ralph Magaña started his professional selling career in 1979 3) PCA can apply to any sales situation. If you sell cars, next time start to size-up the prospect as he drives into the lot. His speed, parking preference, and the way he exits the car and his apparel are indicators that can start you down the right path.
marketing cookware door-to-door while attending college at PAU studying marketing and design. After school he worked in print ad sales for 5 years, starting a seasonal publication. Later, he spent over 10 years working for a fortune 100 company as a sales rep. and later as a national sales trainer. There he achieved top sales honors as “Rep. of the Year” and secured a top 5 spot in a field of 2000 for several years. He has trained successful, professional sales reps. all over the country and attended over 30 seminars and courses on the subject over a period of 25 years. After 15 years in the Construction Industry he now runs our magazine, Contempo as President.
4) Keep and refer to profile notes that you accumulate about the prospect. PCA is best served with a “last call” review and the only way to build one is to do a “post-call analysis” write-up about how it went, including final observations. Some people tend to write month we will weigh in on an effective approach, sales a novel. I think it’s best to just jot down one or two Next call and dealing with resistance. of the most impressive takeaways without being too presumptive (requiring more writing).
the Valley’s No. 1 On-Line Magazine
page 19 ContempoMag.com
With well over 1,000 daily unique visits, Contempomag.com has become a potent internet based advertising medium for the Valley. It is updated daily. New at ...mag.com: New feature stories everyday. Our own music page with downloadable Mp3’s Over 20 daily valley, state & national news feed updates of interest to the Valley. Local Musical Talent Music Videos. New Sections Pets & Animals Music & the Arts Travel Mexico page 20 ContempoMag.com
INVESTMENTS with Melissa Magaña Maintain a Diversified Portfolio in Turbulent Times Provided By: Melissa Magaña, Financial Advisor Wachovia Securities, LLC, Member NYSE/SIPC 4900 North 10th Street North Towne Center Building D1 McAllen, TX 78504 (956) 345-3530 While it is always important to maintain a diversified portfolio, it is especially vital to remain diversified during volatile market conditions. As an investor, you should be careful not to get caught up in any panic selling and should maintain your focus on long-term goals. This point is especially key if you have already built a well-diversified portfolio. If you are concerned about any particular securities, it may be better to discuss these with your financial advisor before cashing out. Although no one can be certain about how the market will react long term, history shows that cataclysmic events that prompted short-term market losses later led to a more stable investing climate across all industry sectors. But still keep in mind that past results are not indicative of what will happen in the future. The more your portfolio is diversified, the less chance you have of one security or investment having a detrimental effect on your entire investment strategy. Bonds, stocks and cash are the three major asset classes. Analyzing your investment objectives and tolerance for risk with your financial consultant will help determine the right mix of these asset classes for your situation. Within these asset classes, you can diversify further by owning stocks in different industries and countries; purchasing different types of bonds and different types of short-term cash instruments. Defensive stocks typically outperform in a slowing economy or recession. These are typically stocks of companies that provide necessities like food, utilities, pharmaceuticals, toiletries or other consumer products with a short shelf life. The theory is that consumers will continue to buy necessities like food and address their medical needs regardless of economic conditions. As a result, companies that sell these types of products should not be as negatively affected by a slowing economy as companies that produce more discretionary types of products. It also is important to remember that even in good times the value of stocks and bonds go up as well as down. When the market is experiencing more volatile movements, gains and losses can seem
enormous. It is important to keep your long-term strategy in mind when experiencing these changes and realize that they can balance themselves out over time. Unfortunately, many investors associate a weak or volatile period in the economy as being the same as a weak time in the stock market, a perception that is not always correct. Not all market declines lead to a recession. The truth is that the United States economy is cyclical, meaning that it moves through stages of growth and decline, varying in duration. A mistake made by many investors is that they buy and sell securities based on fluctuations in the economic data currently being reported rather than anticipating what the economy will look like in six to 12 months (based on a variety of factors including leading economic indicators) and making their investment decisions based on that outlook. Most successful investors take a long-term view — at least three to five years — rather than expecting stellar returns overnight or panicking when the value of their securities declines. A long-term diversified investment strategy based on your investment goals and risk tolerance can create a winning approach for you regardless of whether the economy is booming or experiencing a brief downturn. You should talk with your financial advisor about what the best combination of investments is to accomplish your long-term goals. Wachovia Securities is the trade name used by two separate, registered broker-dealers and non-bank affiliates of Wachovia Corporation providing certain retail securities brokerage services:Wachovia Securities, LLC Member, NYSE/SIPC, and Wachovia Securities Financial Network, LLC (WSFN), Member FINRA/SIPC.The accuracy and completeness of this article are not guaranteed. The opinions expressed are those of the author(s) and are not necessarily those of Wachovia Securities or its affiliates.The material is distributed solely for information purposes and is not a solicitation or an offer to buy any security or instrument or to participate in any trading strategy. Provided by courtesy of MELISSA MAGANA, a Financial Advisor with Wachovia Securities in McAllen, Texas. For more information, please call MELISSA MAGANA at (956)345-3530.Wachovia Securities, LLC, member FINRA and SIPC, is a separate non-bank affiliate of Wachovia Corporation. ©2008 Wachovia Securities, LLC. Investments in securities and insurance products: NOT FDIC-INSURED/ NOT BANK-GUARANTEED/MAY LOSEVALUE 71876
make your second home Villas Premier, Tequisquiapan, Querétaro.
Tequisquiapan, the center of Mexico’s hot natural springs, fine vineyards, historic ruins, rich geology and deep cultural heritage is only minutes from Querétaro International Airport.
A second home with a view. Enjoy nature’s hot springs in your own private pool with views of the mountains above and plaza below at Villas Premier a private community just minutes from downtown Tequisquiapan. A lifestyle that is hard to leave is yours. the Valley’s No. 1 On-Line Magazine
Call us at 011.521.555.376.8091 011.52.555.601.4991 page 21 ContempoMag.com
UTPA’s PLANETARIUM Our Window to Outer Space by Ralph Magaña
all photos taken from images projected on planetarium dome
A while back in the Spring of 1976,
I inrolled in an elective science class at then Pan American Univerisity, taught by Dr. Jeffery Ellis. In appearance he was exactly what you’d expect - a rather short fello who let his lone greys grow puffy over the ears. He introduced us to the world beyond with this wonderful observatory. Back then, It stood out even among the long corridors on the east campus, just west of the gym parking where there was less congession of city and campus lighting to obscure night astronomical viewing.
see it still here, appropriately (a bit out of sync with the newer Science Building that tightly surround her) is like a ride on the Orson Wells Time Machine where the surroundings change in seconds.
too because we got to use the observatory under much darker night skys. As the city grew and night viewing became more difficult the observatory became less productive and was removed. But that was not the fate of the Planetarium which has now recieved numerous grants from the HEB corporation to maintain and improve the facility that attracts thousands of visitors each year.
It was an amazing experience to see the night sky projected onto a perfect dome and then be able to manipulate and zoom in on planets, galaxies at any given time or day. This was the “Haley’s Comet” baby boomer generation aferall and we were in our 20’s perfectly posi- It has also become a cornerstone for tioned to appreciate it’s significance. bringing in more science majors. Dr. Now for the first time after 33 years to Going to class for night lab was special Edwin LeMaster, dean of the College page 22 ContempoMag.com
of Science and Engineering, said students come out of the planetarium excited about astronomy and wanting to learn more. “I think the significance of the effort that we put into maintaining and upgrading the planetarium will pay huge dividends in the number of students in the Rio Grande Valley who decide to study science and engineering. Just this year the number of majors in science and engineering increased to 3,400 majors out of 18,000 students and our engineering enrollment this fall grew by over 10 percent than last fall.” Overseen by the UTPA Department of
Physics and Geology, the 45-year-old planetarium, which has a 20-foot dome and seats 40, was recently equipped with surround sound and a new digital projection system allowing the armchair observer to travel through space and time in three dimensions. It was also made handicap accessible and underwent an updating to its reception area, where a number of educational, hands-on exhibits are on display. The three new full-dome videos, which will rotate weekly, include “Oasis in Space” – a startling and beautiful voyage through our universe, galaxy and
the Valley’s No. 1 On-Line Magazine
solar system in search of liquid water, a key ingredient for life on Earth; “Hubble Vision 2” – a fascinating tour of the cosmos from Earth’s orbit highlighting the best of the Hubble Space Telescope’s incredible images and its exciting discoveries; and “Sky Quest” – an exploration of the stars, planets and constellations, appealing to even the youngest, as told from the viewpoint of an astronomer, starting from her childhood fascination with favorite stars and finding constellations to modern day missions to Mars and the construction of her own mountaintop observatory. As more funds become available, page 23 ContempoMag.com
page 24 ContempoMag.com
additional videos will be added to the planetarium that same evening at 6, 7, The planetarium is located in the Sciplanetarium’s library. 8 or 9 p.m. ence Building Courtyard which can be located on the campus map at http:// On Tuesdays each week from 7-10 Reservations for planetarium presen- www.utpa.edu/mapmenu.cfm. p.m. campus astronomer Dr. Nicho- tations to student groups from prelas Pereyra, assisted by astronomy lab K-12th can also be made for Monday A weekly schedule of H-E-B Planetargraders/instructors conducts night sky through Friday (except holidays), 8 ium events and videos being presented observing session north of the Physi- a.m.-3 p.m. Reservations can be made is available at http://www.utpa.edu/ cal Science Building using two 10-inch by contacting Lisa Smith, planetarium dept/physci/planetarium.htm telescopes. Observers can also attend a receptionist, at 956/316-7088 or via epresentation of one of the videos in the mail at planetarium@utpa.edu. the Valley’s No. 1 On-Line Magazine
page 25 ContempoMag.com
Obama Gets It Right.
We Don’t Need Military Forces in McAllen by Tony Magaña
Recently President Obama
told the Dallas Morning News that no military troops will be sent to the U.S.-Mexican border. “We’ve got a very big border with Mexico,” the president said. “I’m not interested in militarizing the border.” “I don’t have a particular tipping point in mind. I think it’s unacceptable if you’ve got drug gangs crossing our borders and killing U.S. citizens.” The situation in Mexico remains tense as the Mexican Army continues to fight daily with elements of the Mexican drug cartels in Northern and Central Mexico. Most of the violence has occurred in two cities, Tijuana (across from San Diego) and Ciudad Juarez (across from El Paso). There was a recent outbreak of violence in Reynosa (across from McAllen) which resulted in about 20 deaths. Although the death count for this year totals over 6000 on the Mexican side despite rumors to the contrary it has not so far really spread to the United States. Mayor’s of two major border cities, McAllen and El Paso Texas, have made formal requests against placing federal troops on the border. The governor of Texas and Senator John Cornyn had previously indicated that such a move might be necessary. Cities like McAllen and El Paso have up until recently been avoiding the national recession because their strong ties to Mexico as a trading partner. Border trade in Texas contributes significantly to the state being the number page 26 ContempoMag.com
Mayor Cortez–“Believe me, public safety of our citizens is much more important than putting a good face on it. Has it touched our city? No.” At that point Mr. Lemmons did a tail tuck and apologized for seeming rude while reporting from the Atlanta based CNN where the violent crime rate is 5 times higher than McAllen at 1.55% vs. 0.3%.
one exporting state and generally having the he went on to say “I know that your city has best economy in the nation inspite of current been affected and ... you want to put your economic conditions. best face forward but what can you do to stop this....” but Mayor Cortez had the hard facts Local elected officials certainly agree that on his side that he politely got across in the Mexico is in a dilemma but say that those end. who call it a “failed state” are wrong. Many businesses and factories like “maquiladoras” Mayor Cortez–“Believe me public safety of are still functioning across the border. Bor- our citizens is much more important than der traffic is down about 5% from last year putting a good face on it. Has it touched our but there is considerable commerce across- city, No.” At that point Mr. Lemmons tucked ing the border benefitting both countries. his tail between his legs and appolized for The mayors also point out that the there seeming rude. He should rather have appolihave been too many media exaggerations and gized for being ill informed on the subject he falsehoods about Mexican cartel violence on was assigned to cover. Great job mayor, but the American side of the border. Mexican you might not become a regular on CNN as kidnappings that have occurred were usually a border expert. One wonders if other mayors involving relatives of associates of the cartels have your resolve for the truth vs. the desire over criminal debts. for media attention at the expense of media “sensationalism”. Had you been sucked in I’m Sending the military at this time to the bor- sure your quotes would have made national der would send three wrong messages. First headlines. it would be telling the world that we believe President Calderon’s fight with the drug car- The McAllen area has a 0.3% violent crime intels is lost. There is considerable evidence in- cidence which is almost 1/2 that of the whole cluding the capturing of many cartel kingpins state of Texas at 0.52%. Compare this low that argue against this opinion. Secondly it rate of crime to Atlanta (CNN headquarters) would signal that the Border Patrol and local which is three times as much at 1.55%. We law enforcement are doing an inadequate job have more job growth and new business than for which again there is no evidence. Finally, just about any other area of the country. Low it would be saying that the Texas border is living costs, robust economy, and a Hispanic a bad or unsafe place to do business or live family driven culture make the border even which is absolutely not true. today a great place to live. We are still seeing some of the most rapid population growth in Appearing recently on a CNN news broad- the country from people moving here from cast, McAllen mayor, Richard Cortez was all over the United States and especially the harassed repeatedly by novice reporter Don “Rust Belt” looking for a better life. I do not Lemmon about border violence rising to a always agree with the President but this time wwcrisis level north of the border. The re- he is right. porter was looking to trap the mayor into agreeing that the crisis exsisted. “I think it’s Tony Magaña grew up in McAllen Texas, attended Texas University, served as an officer in Army Reserve, pretty close to a crisis, would’nt you agree” he A&M and holds a doctorate from Harvard University. The asked after telling the mayor “I know you are co-founder of Contempo Magazine has participated in scared.” Trying harder yet to break the mayor Valley business for over 20 years.He is a member of the National Association of Hispanic Journalists.
Life isn’t simple.
But Life Insurance can be. It takes just a few minutes to apply for Farmer’s Simple Term Life Insurance.* There are no lengthy forms, medical exams or lab tests required. One signature does it all. You may save even more when you combine it with a Farmer’s Auto, homeowners or Renters policy. Call me or stop by my office for a free quote. You’ll be glad you did.
Barbara Hall 6316 N. 10th. Street Bldg. F, Suite 601 McAllen, Texas 78504
(956) 992-0713
bhall2farmersagent.com
*Policy form 2005-261-271 series. Life insurance by Farmer’s New World Life Insurance Company*. Mercer Island, WA 98040. Products and features are not available all states and may vary by state. the Valley’s No. 1 On-Line Magazine
page 27 ContempoMag.com
UTPA’s Folkloric Dancers Express the Drama of Romance and Revolution in Traditional Mexican Dance by Crystal Felici
I recently was asked to cover the UT–Pan American Ballet Folklorico department in Edinburg, and I realized that although many of us living in the Valley have had the pleasure of experiencing the colorful live performances of Folklorico, few of us actually know the history behind the tradition of this beautiful style of dance. page 28 ContempoMag.com
Folklorico, traditional Mexican folk dancing, is a national expression of Mexico. Each of the 31 Mexican states has its typical “zapateados” (combination of quick and vigorous dance steps) and each dance reflects the regional and ethnic diversity of Mexico. Some dances date back to the 17th century but were not firmly established until after the 1810 War of Independence when Ballet
Folklorico received its first surge of popularity. Then, after the 1910 Revolution, the Ballet Folklorico blossomed and embraced the indigenous art form of Folklorico dancing and re-identified it as national expression of Mexico. There are very few areas of the Mexican society in which indigenous practices have been
preserved and cultivated, but thanks to the Ballet Folklorico of UT–Pan American, we all can take a journey through the past and enjoy the dances that revive Mexico’s long and glorious history. As I entered the backstage of the auditorium, girls in black leotards and low tight hair buns all gathered around a large lit mirror applying the dramatic blue eye shadows with bright blush and red lipstick. As I watched the girls prep and warm up for their annual show Alegria, I realized all these girls were actually very good friends and all had one common thing: a passion for the Folklorico and the Mexican culture.
of 24 dancers , under the artistic direction of Francisco Muñoz, and live musical accompaniment provided by Mariachi Mexico Lindo. Their annual show Alegria takes its audience through an exciting glance of Mexico’s strong heritage, beauty, and grace. Themes of war, religion and love make the audience appreciate the multi-faceted Mexican culture that is being preserved through this beautiful art form.
awards and been recognized for outstanding technique, artistic director, Francisco Muñoz, says it is not his desire for recognition that keeps him motivated but instead his love of the art of Folklorico and his passion for all arts. Muñoz says, although his dancers are not professional dancers, they train like professionals and get to perform with live music which is often only done among professionals. The live Mariachi music sets them apart from other dance companies and Francisco tells us “it is every dancer’s dream to perform with live music and here my dancers get the opportunity to share an art form with the public while enjoying the traditional Mexican music.”
Ballet Folklorico is a defining element of Mexican popular culture at national and international levels. UTPA’s traveling dance company has travelled to Canada and different parts of Mexico gaining recognition and awards for their impeccable dance choreographies. But UTPA’s Ballet Folklorico features a company even though Ballet Folklorico has won several It is often easy to make changes along the the Valley’s No. 1 On-Line Magazine
page 29 ContempoMag.com
page 30 ContempoMag.com
the Valley’s No. 1 On-Line Magazine
page 31 ContempoMag.com
way, and want to modernize, but that would mean losing what they have worked very hard to preserve. Muñoz says it is important to keep the costumes and colors traditional. Costume designers Juan and Martha Cuestas have long been part of Francisco Muñoz’s team, and he says it is thanks to them that people who watch his folkloric company get to enjoy a true taste of what Mexico’s culture and style really looked like in the indigenous times.
the sensuality of the female, who is finally seduced by her partner in a swirling dance of passion. Typically, the dances express the love of a delicate and graceful woman, but one dance in particular shows the fierce strength a Mexican woman can possess.
their beautiful music and graceful dancing, this indigenous art form transmits so much energy and happiness to all who have the privilege of watching. Francisco Muñoz says he has a deep respect for the art of Folklorico dancing and hopes to forever preserve it while only refining and beautifying it through his dediFrom a critical period of Mexican history cated dancers. comes “Revolución,” a special dance dedi- Crystal Felici is a freelance based in Los Angeles, cated to the “soldaderas”, the women who writer California. She has traveled supported their men by taking up arms and the world and recognized a for different cultures and joining them in the fight during the 1910 love languages just as much as fashRevolution. By the time the show ended, I ion and style. While studying at the University of had a deep awareness that the virtues I saw Business Dallas, Crystal returned to on stage still exist today within our very own Europe living in Italy for two different years studying Italian, diverse Mexican culture. and working for a prominent
While watching the show, I saw what a huge role romance plays in the Mexican culture. The popular dance of “Jalisco,” the birthplace of mariachis, was a crowd favorite because of the beautiful bright dresses and catchy upbeat mariachi music, but throughout the dance is a After more than four centuries from the beginconstant theme of courtship and love. On ning of Ballet Folklorico, UTPA has managed stage we see the strength of the male and to keep this Mexican tradition alive. With page 32 ContempoMag.com
Italian designer. After extensive training and experience as a fashion forecaster and stylist in Florence, Crystal now enjoys writing her own fashion, travel and lifestyle articles.
FUSION – COMBINING ELEMENTS OF CULINARY DISTINCTION THAT DELIGHT THE PALATE, OUR SPECIALTY!
Mission 583-9688
Edinburg 688-5746
2306 E. Expwy 83
Weslaco 351-5394
McAllen 627-2005
2706 Cornerstone 2017 W. Expwy 83 1402 S. Jackson Rd
Art’s Medical Equipment The “All in One” Oxygen Specialists Sleek, quiet and compact the Eclipse 2 @ Art’s. 3,000 ml. oxygen! The only single system with both continuous flow & a generous pulse-dose option.
Friday-Saturday 11:00 am-2:00 am Sunday-Thursday 11:00 am-Midnight
956.994.8181 McColl + Exp. 83
the Valley’s No. 1 On-Line Magazine
page 33
956-702-4000 4 Valley Locations ContempoMag.com
Contempo Pioneer Gabriela Uresti
page 34 ContempoMag.com
in a pop band named Ficcion as a vocalist and pianist for the group.” Gabriela is a natural born salesperson. She is also a licensed cosmetologist and an image consultant. “In 2002 I launched my career as a Makeup Artist with Dior Cosmetics, where I was able to unleash my creativity. I was employed by Dior Cosmetics until Fall 2008. During my tenure with Dior Cosmetics I was recruited to work as a Public Relations Executive in the home health care sector. I am currently employed with Hosana Home Health Care.” “I have worked as a television reporter and interviewer as well. During my tenure as a Public Relations Executive, I came in contact with a person who has paved my way to make my dream of owning my own spa become a reality. I currently am the owner of the Sanctuary where I have been able to empower women by showing them how to care for their skin. There she conducts classes was born in Torreón, on make-up and etiquette.” and am sharing those same principles with my 12 Coahuila, Mexico and her modeling career began year old son, Jorge Antonio Uresti. when she was 12 years old. “I have done run- “At 33 I have lived the American dream...I have way modeling in Torreón, Monterrey, Reynosa been able to grow and expand in so many facets “As a working woman: I always have the will to of my live. As a daughter: As time has passed, do whatever it takes to dedicate the time and efand McAllen over the past 17 years.” I have headed the values and teachings that my fort to do a good job. I get a tremendous amount “My hobbies include singing and dancing of parents instilled in me. As a woman: I have tak- of satisfaction and pride knowing I have take time all types of music. My favorite music is classi- en those teachings of working hard to realize my to deliver quality in everything that I do.” cal. I enjoy Richard Claytermen, Raul DiBlasio, dreams and to develop and grow as a human beBeethoven and Chopin. I have a passion for ing and respectful citizen.” As a mother. Thanks One aspect of Gabriela’s character that really playing the piano having played since she was 8 to the values instilled in me as child, I am able to stands out is the devotion and respect she holds years old. “I am a self taught pianist. I played carry out the same instruction I was blessed with for her family’s cultural heritage. She speaks will-
Gabriela Uresti
the Valley’s No. 1 On-Line Magazine
page 35 ContempoMag.com
fully of her mothers guiding direction that she intends to pass on to her children, a trait we should all embrace. Congratulations to Gabriela for being an ideal young adult role model and for being our choice as the Contempo Pioneer of the Month. by Ralph Maga単a
page 36 ContempoMag.com
the Valley’s No. 1 On-Line Magazine
page 37 ContempoMag.com
ON POLITICAL IDEALS SHOULD THE PENDULUM MAKE A HARD LEFT? Tony Magaña Much of the liberal media is writing that all elected officials should yield their own held convictions to the ideals espoused by President Obama because the election was a mandate for change. The Nobel Prize winning economist, Paul Krugman, wrote in the New York Times that the last eight years resulted in the current catastrophe because of the Republican ideals of “wasteful government spending and the wonders of tax cuts.” Essentially, he is saying that a clash of ideas occurred from which the conclusion can be clearly drawn that conservatism failed and that progressive liberalism is to be the superior course needed to chart the way onto economic recovery. The past eight years of George W. Bush were not demonstrations of Republican ideals. Gluttonous engorgement of the federal budget was encouraged by both Democrats and Republicans. Personal and corporate tax rates in the United States continued to rank as among the highest in the developed world for most citizens. Mr. Krugman and others feel that the most important part of helping with a economic recovery is not through tax cuts but should be based upon aid to state and local governments. This no doubt assumes that a fair and equitable system will be developed to reasonably determine how to prioritize aid distribution, who gets it and who does not, and how it will be overseen. The problem is that the prototypical solution in reality may not work. Government is very much like an NFL football team. Ingenious plays involving inpage 38 ContempoMag.com
tricate, coordinated movements of players alone will not win games or lead to championships. Successful execution of organized human activities requires an understanding of what will work and what will not in real life settings, not in the laboratory. Initially, the concept of giving the nation’s banks billions of dollars to stabilize the credit structure for private individuals and commercial enterprise seemed great in the ideal sense of how we understand our economy to work. Subsequently, it has become a Pandora’s box to administer because of so many potential exploits that have been found.
for payment.
Being a conservative means we have more than ideals and that when we espouse a design about how government should work we take into account not only the ideal world scenario but also the real world of how it will be rendered successfully. George W. Bush failed as communicator and somewhat as an administrator which does not prove that conservative ideals relating to our economy were disproven. Conversely, President Obama’s great oratory and affability in promoting utopian egalitarianism does not corroborate that progressive liberal revision of economic principles will The idea of capitalism and free markets was lead to prosperity. based upon a real perspicacity that wealth and commerce under a central controlling Our nation’s historical economic supremaauthority were inefficient and unfair. His- cy in this and the last century was primarily tory has repeatedly shown that even when based upon a fundamental reliance of those there is benevolent intent the outcome re- principles which take into account human mains less than satisfactory. nature, not utopia. This is the reason no society has ever been ruled successfully by The House of Representatives has an in- intellectual zealots. herit weakness which is why we do not have a single legislative body as our sole govern- Tony Magaña grew up in McAllen Texas, ment. Each congressman is most respon- attended Texas A&M University, served sible to his own district and is minimally as an officer in Army Reserve, and holds accountable to the nation as a whole. Imag- a doctorate from Harvard University. The ine giving everyone in a family a credit card co-founder of Contempo Magazine has with no limits but all coming from a single participated in Valley business for over 20 account and telling each family member years. He is a member of the National Asthat they are not individually responsible sociation of Hispanic Journalists.
Western Flyers Air Service
Gelato Expresso Smoothies Desserts
euro gelato
R
a new age of temptation.... Fly direct to your destination in the U.S. or Mexico Enjoy the security of choosing your travel companions No layovers, no missed connections
4801 N. 10th. St. Suite A McAllen 682-6615 myspace.com/eurogelato
Over 25 years of flight experience Airconditioned, pressurized Beachcraft King Air aircraft
956.631.8018
Your Source For ReďŹ ll Inkjet & Laser Cartridges new cartridges / copier toners / printers fax supplies / expert printing advice 7017 North 10th Suite N1 McAllen, TX 78504
BGM
RECORDING STUDIOS
The Chubby Boys
Show Montecarlo
Juli
Digital & Vinyl Audio Recordings / All Formats including Video 5001 Walnut, Edinburg
phone 956.631.0844 fax 631.0847 www.cartridgeworldusa.com GO GREEN NOW! the Valley’s No. 1 On-Line Magazine
956.926.9103
page 39 ContempoMag.com
Get your sprinkler system installed today & give your lawn the treatment it deserves! Effective Sprinkler Design Reliable Installation & Maintenance A Professional Company You Can Trust
Call Now for Spring Special Price & Free Estimate
ADVANCED SPRINKLERS
4207 N. 22nd. St. / McAllen, Texas / 78504 Lic. # LI16869 Call David Gutierrez / 956-928-0054 Three-Zone Protection Plan delivers 3X the protection.
Zone 1: eliminate nesting sites Zone 2: seal up all foundation, soffit vent, plumbing & electrical access points. Zone 3: Trap & remove rodents without rodenticide baits.
Call Today 686-0085 for a Free Estimate with a permanent solution TPCL# 12117
CREATE AN AUTOMATIC MOSQUITO & PEST BARRIER PLUS FERTILIZE THROUGH YOUR SPRINKLER SYSTEM. All Natural Formula Works on a broad range of pests Safe around children & pets Saves time and money Call David @ 956-631-0805 Lic # 13803 page 40 ContempoMag.com
Computer Corner E-Mail Identity Theft, What’s in Your Drive?
Identity theft
. Just the sound of the words makes everyone nervous. The 2 most un-secure methods of communication today are the cell phone and e-mail. But what if your business depends on sending confidential information via e-mail, what can you do?
password protected e-mail Well to start with, if you are using Microsoft Word and Excel, you can password protect these documents before e-mailing them. If you are using Office 2000 through 2003, just click on “save as”, then in the upper right click on the word “tools”, then “security options”, then enter a password to open and or modify. I suggest you give the password protected file a different name than the original, so if you forget the password later, you can open the original file. Be sure to fax, phone, or send a separate e-mail with the password to the recipient, so they will be able to open the e-mail attachment. Excel is a little different, after clicking on “tools” click “general options” and enter password. Now Word 2007 had to be different, so click on the office Orb on the top left, select prepare, encrypt docu-
with Michael Bilyeu
Password Protected Your E-Mail Attached Document Protection Step by Step Firebox Computer Backup that Takes the Heat
ment and enter a password. After all this, click file, send to, mail recipient as attachment, (assuming you are using Outlook or Outlook Express) and then send the e-mail.
password protected Documents Now what about other types of documents? Like pdf files or tiff files? I use winzip 8.1 to send other types of files. To do this, create the file and save it to your harddrive. Then, simply navigate to the file location, right click on the file and select the winzip line, then zip and e-mail plus line. Again, I recommend giving this file a different name, and click on “password protect zip file” box, and click “ok”. Now, enter your password and click “ok”. Now your e-mail send to box opens up, if you are using Outlook or Outlook Express. Send your email and your done!
no certificates needed These methods are much easier than using the encrypted e-mail feature in Outlook because you do not have to worry about certificates for everyone you are sending to. As long as you save the document with a different name such as “file name
the Valley’s No. 1 On-Line Magazine
– pw” as an example, you never have to worry about forgetting the password. Do not forget the password if you use a different file name. A year from now if you want to open a file and do not know the password, then you are in trouble!
firebox backup I cannot stress the importance of protecting your backup devices. One of my clients had a fire almost destroy his entire office. The backup system I had installed worked perfectly with a Sentry fireproof box, which was in the heart of the fire. The box was severely damaged and the inner metal box had to be cut open to retrieve the secondary backup drive. I then restored all but a days work for his entire business. His computer and the primary backup drive were destroyed by the fire, so if he hadn’t used a fireproof box, or kept the secondary drive offsite, then… Ok, that is all for now, have fun and happy computing… Computer Doctor Michael Bilyeu Computer_doctor@myctsonline.com
page 41 ContempoMag.com
Recreating Memories in Art artist: Irma Garza Garcia
Artist IRMA GARZA GARCIA is a native of Nuevo León, Mex., and the daughter of migrants. Since childhood she found the arts fascinating and developed an inclination towards drawing and later acrylic and oil painting. Irma had been self-taught over the years but in 2008, she registered at a renowned school of art based out of Minneapolis, Minnesota–The Art Instruction School, where she continues to study under their direction. Her paintings, with vivid images braced with a strong sentimental meaning, reveal her intimate connection with her origins and page 42 ContempoMag.com
reflect clearly her experiences in artistic growth. “I like to express in my paintings feelings and memorable experiences, to explore different possibilities within the fascinating study of fine art. I feel a certain liberty and sense of adventure the Valley’s No. 1 On-Line Magazine
when I raise a paintbrush. I want to project a level of vitality and expression to my art, one that I hope, people can relate to. Right now I am working with landscapes and still life of familiar scenes.� page 43 ContempoMag.com
RENE CASTELLANOS attorney at law
aj o
Health
r
M
Where Health is a MAJOR Decision
Foods
1001 South 10th Tiffany Plaza McAllen, Texas 687-7759
4949 South jackson rd. edinburg, texas 78539 (956) 631-9550 (956) 631-9551
The Art of Memories
827
by Ir ma Garza
9973
Visit Our Major Expansion! Many New Items
page 44 ContempoMag.com
New & Original on the Menu
Foods of the Dominican Republic Foods of the Dominican Republic are a mix of Spanish influences and the cultural and cooking practices of the native Taino Indians. The first thing you will notice is that it definitely has a Latin American feel to the cuisine, but it is not heavily spiced as the food of other West Indian countries tends to be so there is no masking of meat flavors. The main flavors of Caribbean recipes are garlic, onions, coriander and oregano. Many of the meat dishes involve goat, which are abundant in the D. R. Goats graze on wild oregano which gives Dominican Republic food and meats a distinctive "pre-marinated" flavor. Dominican Republic food tends to be very well cooked or simmered for tenderness. There are the most common varieties of seafood like shrimp, marlin, mahi-mahi, rock lobster and Dorado. The locals tend to eat a lot of meat (goat and chicken) as it is less expensive than fish and seafood.
to serve them mixed with the criolla (rice), the Dominican term for rice & beans is “moro”. However, in la bandera the items are usually separated into quarters on the plate – symbolizing the Dominican flag.
Dominican Criolla Rice
The rice for La Bandera Dominican Recipe Whenever rice is cooked well there is a layer that sticks to the pot. In North American kitchens we tend to hide this part of the cooking process and throw it out. Not in the Dominican, this crispy layer of cooked rice is called “concon” and is a delicacy, served separately from the rice. A good Dominican cook can make a great tender rice and wonderful crispy concon.
Guisade-Stewed Meat
“Guisade”: the stewed meat Usually goat is used for this recipe, but you can substitute with stewing beef. 3 pounds of goat, cut into cubes 3 roughly chopped onions 6 cloves of garlic 4 tomatoes roughly chopped 2 sweet peppers julienned he brought Spanish cuisine with him. The 2 cups beef stock most famous Spanish dish, paella, is now a Coriander, salt & pepper to taste regular in just about every Dominican kitchen. The dish has been adapted to Dominican Marinade: Republic food and ingredients, the local rice 3 tablespoons oil (criolla) is used and the main coloring of pa- 3 tablespoons lime juice ella (saffron) is not available in the Domini- Finely chopped onion can Republic. While the Spanish have a very 3 teaspoons oregano strict definition of paella (rice dish cooked Salt & pepper over an open fire), the Dominicans now seem to see it as a rice dish that involves whatever To achieve the oregano feed goat taste mariingredients are available. nate the stewing meat overnight in the refrigerator. Rub the meat with the marinade, place As for the peripherals to Dominican Repub- in a Ziploc bag and refrigerate overnight. lic food, desserts tend to be sweeter by North American standards - sugar cane mixed with Saute meat in hot oil until seared on all sides. condensed milk. Common non-alcoholic Add onions, garlic, tomatoes and peppers and beverages involve mixing fresh fruit juices saute for five minutes. Add beef stock and alwith milk to make a kind of smoothie. low to simmer for a couple hours. Season and adjust liquid as needed.
“La Bandera” the National Dish Recipe
Red beans 2-3 cups of red kidney beans 1 red onion finely chopped 3 cloves of garlic half tspn. of coriander 2 tablespoons of tomato paste 2 cups of chicken stock The only true Taino dishes that are still com- salt & pepper to taste mon are Casabe - a flat bread made from the poisonous yuca plant. The plant is shredded, Start by caramelizing the onions over medium soaked and pressed to have the poisonous heat in a little oil. Add garlic and coriander components of the plant removed. Casava, and saute for a couple minutes before addanother Taino dish, is a type of fritter that is ing other ingredients. I like to stew my beans for 20-25 minutes; use a potato masher to stuffed with meat, chicken or fish. turn parts of them into a paste while they’re simmering. Keep them simmering until they Paella When Columbus came to the island in 1492, reach a nice creamy consistency. I also tend The most popular national dish is "la Bandera" the flag, which is a combination of rice, red beans, stewed meat (usually goat), salad and fried plantains. Other mainstays are Comida Criolla which is a stewed chicken dish served with rice and beans.
the Valley’s No. 1 On-Line Magazine
The unique flavors of the Dominican Republic truely represent a distinctive variety among foods of the “Caribe”. A fusion of spanish, latin american and tribal culinary origins it, Dominican foods are growing in popularity in the Americas. Of course it is better yet served and prepared by a “Dominicano” who spent a lifetime perfecting his skills. Robert at Quisqueya Bakery and Restaurant in McAllen, just south of Nolana on Ware Rd. has brought his award winning original recipes to the Upper Valley. He has preserved the original recipes so well that you feel a bit “Dominicanized” after eating a really satisfying and truely unique meal there. He’s open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Locals are discovering the facinating flavors of his award winning bakery products aswell. page 45 ContempoMag.com
David McCullough’s 1776 is a wrenching account of the most critical days following the Declaration of Independence for General Washington and the men of the Continental Army who surrounded him. Their hardships, fears and seemingly insurmountable obstacles are depicted in vivid detail like no movie could capture. He accurately recants the vital march that maneuvers the Americans into the only hope they have for victory against the most well trained army the world had ever seen, the King’s men, and their British commander, William Howe. Simon & Schuster-hardcopy 2005
JUDGE
The Valley’s roots are deep in tradition for Spring events. Lent, Easter, and our mild, warm valley climate bring the hope for better times ahead. It is also a good season for getting out, meeting people and for participating in community involvement. page 46 ContempoMag.com
STORIES OF SERVICE IN THE BORDER PATROL
Da r r y l R a m b o
449th District Court
T
A LIFE ON THE LINE
JESSE CONTRERAS
Life On A Line by Darryl Rambo chronicles his 21 his book covers the first tenfirst years of my10 21 yearof Border Patrolyears career. I try to keep it light and easy reading. There were many experience as duringa thisU. unusual things that occurred period ofS. my lifeBorder and I have only touched on a few. I believe that these stories will give you, the reader, a feeling of what is involved Born in being a Borderand Patrol Agent.raised Patrol Agent. I also think you will be amused, and highly entertained by some of occurrences’ that take place between these covers. in theMontana, Rambo served in the U.S.I wasArmy during theMontana Cuban born and raised on the vast north central prairie. I spent most of the first 30 years of my life there, to school and farming. Missile goingCrisis and as a flight Hingham High School consisted of 25 students. After graduatingHe high schoolflew I attended Montana State University instructor. single wing for a year, then Northern Montana College the following year. By this time, I just didn’t want to go to school any more, so I worked as; a carpenaircraft and patrolled the frontier ter, heavy equipment operator, telephone lineman, and cattle feeder during the winter months. along the S. 1964 border with January, 1962U. to January I spent in the Army during theMexCuban Missile Crisis. When I returned home I went back to the same old icoroutine. for the Border Patrol. He is a The winter of 1968 I went to flight school in Minden, Nevada where I obtainedtime a Commercialresident Pilot license, then on toof Greeley, ColoradoMcAllong the where I earned an Instrument rating, Flight instructors rating, Instrument Instructors and a Multi-engine rating. For a brief period I was a lenFlight where lives with his flightarea instructor at that school. It didn’the take long to realize that I could starve being a flight instructor, besides there was a sweet young lady back wife, Majors Rambo. His in MontanaLilly that I was destined to marry. Making a living was my main concern, so after purchasing a semi, I went into theportrays trucking business. That is the until that rollover on the gumbo book interesting road happened. This is where my story begins. and often entertaining aspects of trying to control the flood of undocumented workers. Cover photo: used with permission, Ralph Magaña
Advance copies can be obtained at www.booklocker.com/books/3559. html 5.50 x 8.50 .362
Hey Whipple, Squeeze This is a fascinating advertising guide that pulls the plug on drabby ads. Luke Sullivan, an award winning Texas ad man, has seen it all from highly despised but successful “Mr. Whipple” ads to the unforgettable and legendary Volkswagon ads run in the late 60’s. He covers print, radio, television and the new mediums in this 3rd. edition. His gritty advice is eye opening and a virtual necessity for today’s approach to effective advertising. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Darryl Rambo 5.50 x 8.50
first two months free!! call 467-7880
Expwy. 83 RG Regional Hospital
Ridge Rd. Ridgeview Place
S. Cynthia
Medical area office suites with lots of parking near the hospitals South McAllen 2010 S. Cynthia
3360 sf. medical office ready $1.10 per sf. low common maintenance
typical unit size: 1680-3360 sq.ft. dimensions: 30’ X 112’ 15’ X 112’ location: center of south hospital district, McAllen. 2010 S. Cynthia, McAllen type: Sale Price $235,200 ($70/sf.) Lease $2,856 ($0.85/sf.) shell $4,032 ($1.20) finished contact: (956) 467-7880
Javier Torres Cabinets
Jose Lopez Painting
New Custom Cabinets Cabinet Repair Replace Cabinet Doors Cabinet Remodeling Replace Interior Doors 30 years experience
interior & exterior over 25 years experience
For estimates call 956.457.5688
For estimates call 956.460.0493
23 years of experience 956-239-1065
RGV
rgvroofing@gmail.com the Valley’s No. 1 On-Line Magazine
page 47 ContempoMag.com
Elegant Entry Doors Make the Best First Impressions CARVED SOLID HARDWOOD DOORS CRAFTED & AVAILABLE HERE UNLIMITED SELECTION OF IRON & STAINED GLASS INSERTS MANY MODELS ARE WINDSTORM RESISTANT APPROVED
Not yet a lost art, the rare craft of wood door carving can improve the value and appearance of your home. Sturdy and artistic, solid wood, hand carved doors can be easily stained off-site and installed in a day or two. Skilled, local craftsmen use authentic hand tools to achieve a perfect finish and a perfect fit. See our showroom, now stocked with Amazonian mahogany and wild maple hardwoods. We also make iron adornment door dressings in authentic period designs and patterns. Solid wood, hand carved doors, perfectly matched to your architectural style, can give your luxury home its missing link. Many of our styles are windstorm certified. See our showroom and catalogs for great indoor, outdoor and patio door ideas on 9th, just west of Mayberry in Mission, Texas.
816 North Francisco Mission, Texas 78572 or call 956-424-9686 a division of Economy Doors page 48 ContempoMag.com