Rio Grande Valley TX Community Profile

www.valleychamber.com

Two high schools ranked in

the top 100 in the nation in Newsweek’s America’s

Best High Schools and in the top 3 in the Ten Miracle High

Schools list

TEA Exemplary

School District

OneInternational

Baccalaureate(IB) DiplomaProgrammeCandidate

School

Over 95 percent of STISD

graduates continuetheir education atmajor universities

or technical colleges

SOUTH TEXASIndependent Schoo l D i s t r i c t

Stretching across three counties in the Rio Grande

Valley – Cameron, Hidalgo and Willacy – South Texas

Independent School District is the only all-magnet school

district in the state, comprised of four

high schools and one junior high. All

students within the tri-county area

can enroll at any of the district’s five

campuses, located in

Edinburg, Mercedes and

San Benito. There is no

cost to attend, and

STISD provides free bus

transportation across

the Rio Grande Valley.

If you are looking for a

small, personal environment

with a strong scholastic program

focused on college preparation and

hands-on training in various

professional career fields, we

hope you will join us at STISD.

One U.S. News & World

Report Gold MedalSchool & three U.S.

News & World ReportSilver Medal

Schools

All four high schools

ranked in the top 100 in the nation in

the Washington Post’s High School

Challenge Index

All schoolsaccredited by

the TEA andSouthern Association

of Colleges andSchools

For more information, visit www.stisd.net or call (956) 565-2454.

South Texas Academy of Medical Technology (Med Tech)in San Benito (9th-12th grade)

South Texas Business, Education & Technology Academy (BETA) inEdinburg (9th-12th grade)

South Texas High School for Health Professions (Med High) in Mercedes (9th-12th grade)

South Texas Preparatory Academy (STPA) in Edinburg (7th-8th grade)

The Science Academy of South Texas (Sci Tech) in Mercedes (9th-12th grade)

http://www.stisd.net/

http://www.ideapublicschools.org/


Rio Grande Valley Partnership 2012-20134

Alamo

Brownsville

Donna

Edinburg

Harlingen

Hidalgo

Hidalgo County

La Feria

McAllen

Mercedes

Mission

Pharr

Raymondville

Rio Grande City

Roma

San Benito

San Juan

South Padre Island

Starr County

Weslaco

Index of Advertisers

Table of ContentsIFC691011141820212226283031333435373840424647

48495456606668707278828692939698102106108109113

Discover the Real South Texas

Snapshot of the Rio Grande Valley

A Brief History

Digging For Treasure

Calendar of Events

Things to Do, Places to Be

Museums of the Rio Grande Valley

Take in the Outdoors Year-Round In the Valley

Ecotourism

Nature Attractions

Golf Courses

Nightlife

Theatre

A Tasty Revolution Is Spreading Across the Valley

Local Dining with a twist

Education

Transportation is Driving Business

Industry

Wind Energy

Utilities

Health in the Valley

Directory of Area Chambers of Commerce

Directory of Area EDCs

5Rio Grande Valley Partnership 2012-2013

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This is a Village Profile® Publicationcreated and produced for the

Rio Grande Valley Partnership322 South Missouri • Weslaco, TX 78596

Phone: (956) 968-3141 • Fax: (956) 968-0210Website: www.valleychamber.com

Copyright© 2012 VillageProfile.com, inc.®

33 N. Geneva St., Elgin, IL 60120 • 800-600-0134www.villageprofile.com®

Every effort has been made to assure the accuracyof the information in this publication. The Partnershipand VillageProfile.com® assume no responsibilityfor misinformation. Please contact the Partnershipwith any additions or corrections. Reproduction in

whole or in part without permission of the Partnership and VillageProfile.com® is prohibited.

CEO/President Daniel M. Nugara

Executive Vice President Joseph C. Nugara, Sr.

Director of Business Operations Michael D. Nugara

Vice President Gordy Swinehart

Project Sales Manager Ana Raphael

Project Coordinator Jodie Stackowiak

Director of Production Joseph C. Nugara, Jr.

Production Manager Nick Olah

Graphic Production Stacey Cordero

Ad Production Coordinator Anna Burkart

Ad Design Manager Kerri Reaves

Photo Contributions

Brownsville CVB

City of Hidalgo

City of San Benito

City of San Juan

Edinburg EDC

Edinburg Scenic Wetlands & World Birding Center

Harlingen CVB

Gladys Porter Zoo

Greater Mission Chamber of Commerce

McAllen CVB

Mercedes EDC

Museum of South Texas History

Pharr Chamber of Commerce

Raymondville EDC

Rio Grande City EDC

Rio Grande Valley Premium Outlets®

Roma Bluffs World Birding Center

South Padre Island/The Atkins Group

Texas State Technical College

Weslaco Area Chamber of Commerce

This publication is produced on paper that contains recycled content and is printed with 100% green inks that do notcontain solvents and are free of volatile organic compounds (VOC). Our printer, Sutherland Companies of Montezuma,

IA has eliminated the use of film and film processing and utilizes aqueous plates, alcohol substitutes and waste recoveryprograms. Sutherland Companies also holds environmental permits issued by the Department of Natural Resources (DNR)

and works with Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) licensed handlers.

http://www.uhccommunityplan.com/


The Rio Grande Valley is a warm andwelcoming place where twocultures and two languages meetand remain linked by a sharedhistory. On every list of the fastest

growing regions in the nation, the Valleybenefits from hard-working entrepreneurs,close ties and easy access to Mexico, and aquality of life that is second-to-none. TheValley sits along the northern bank of the RioGrande River (the dividing waterwaybetween the U.S. and Mexico border) andstretches across 4,244 square miles and fourcounties – Cameron, Hidalgo, Starr and Willacy.

With its roots in agriculture, the Valley hassince grown into a Mecca for manufacturingand trade; with other fields, such as tourism,retail, healthcare and energy, also growingby leaps and bounds. Part of the reason forthis economic growth is a young and trainable

workforce and accessibility to highereducation – the area boasts two universities,numerous technical and community colleges,and three divisions of the UT RegionalAcademic Health Center (RAHC).

TRANSPORTATIONThe Valley’s location is strategic and offersexceptional accessibility via ground, air and water.

Highways & Bridgesd U.S. Highways 77, 83 and 281d State Routes 100, 107, 115, 186, 206, 336,

345, 495 and 499d Business 83 or “Old 83” runs parallel to

Expressway 83, serving as the “Main Streetof the Valley,” as it connects several areacommunities and downtown areas

d Mexico Federal Highway 2 travels alongthe U.S.-Mexico border

d Nine international bridges connect the RioGrande Valley in Texas with Mexico

Public Transportationd McAllen Express Transitd Rio Metrod Valley Metrod Valley Transit Company

Raild The Rio Valley Switching Company, the

“Valley Railroad,” interchanges withUnion Pacific Railroad in Harlingen,extending into Mission, Edinburg and theMcAllen FTZ. The rail line also extendsinto Santa Rosa.

Airportsd Brownsville-South Padre Island

International Airportd McAllen Miller International Airportd Valley International Airport – Harlingen

Portsd Port of Brownsvilled Port of Harlingend Port Isabel-San Benito

Navigation Districtd Willacy County Navigation District

Snapshot of the Rio Grande Valley

http://www.onestopstaffing.net/

http://www.magicvalley.coop/


POPULATIONCounties in the Rio Grande Valley............................................................2000 ..........................................2010Cameron ...................................................................................................335,227 .....................................406,220Hidalgo......................................................................................................569,463 .....................................774,769Starr.............................................................................................................53,597 .......................................60,968Willacy ........................................................................................................20,082 .......................................22,134

Major Cities in the Rio Grande Valley .....................................................2000 ..........................................2010Brownsville ..............................................................................................139,722 .....................................175,023Edinburg......................................................................................................48,465 .......................................77,100Harlingen ....................................................................................................57,564 .......................................64,849McAllen ....................................................................................................106,414 .....................................129,877Mission .......................................................................................................45,408 .......................................77,058Pharr............................................................................................................46,660 .......................................70,400San Benito..................................................................................................23,444 .......................................24,250South Padre Island .....................................................................................2,422 .........................................2,816Weslaco......................................................................................................26,935 .......................................35,670

Total Population of RGV (2010): ..........................................................1,264,111

CLIMATEThe Rio Grande Valley sits just above thesame latitude as the Florida Keys, with anappealing subtropical coastal region boastinghot, humid summers and mild, dry winters withtemperatures that rarely drop below 50degrees. The Valley’s winter months typicallyaverage in the 70s, while the averagesummertime high reaches into the mid to high90s. This unique climate is a great economicasset, providing a favorable haven for touristsand “Winter Texans,” as well as an ideal year-round agricultural growing season,particularly for the citrus industry.

Sources: U.S. Census Bureau, 2000 Census and 2010Census; Tech Prep RGV 2011 Labor Market Report


The Coahuiltecan Indians roamedthe Rio Grande Valley, then aquasi-desert rangeland, for manyyears before the arrival of explorersin the early 16th century. The

Spanish occupied the area for some timebeginning in the 1750s, until the first Americansettlement sprang up in Brownsville. Thetown, which was founded as a result of theinvasion of Zachary Taylor and the U.S. Armyin the Mexican War in 1846, grew aroundFort Brown (originally called Fort Texas).

Brownsville, home to what many considerthe last major battle of arms in the AmericanCivil War (the Battle of Palmito Ranch),remained the only American settlement of itssize and distinction in the area for more thana half-century. The introduction of irrigationand the railroad in the 1910s and ‘20s enticedmany Midwestern farmers to relocate theirfarms to southern Texas. This large-scale

migration, plus simultaneous Mexicanimmigration into the U.S., led to dramaticgrowth and development in the Valley. By1930, the Rio Grande Valley housed morethan 176,000 people.

During this time, agriculture remained amainstay in the local economy. In the 1940s,the Valley also developed into a resort centerowing to its appealing year-round climateand outstanding opportunities for outdoorrecreation.

While the region’s growth calmed during the1950s and 1960s, it picked up again beginningin the 1970s, with the population exceeding700,000 by 1990. Today, with a population of1,264,111, the Rio Grande Valley features aunique blend of old-world charm and moderndevelopment. While the Valley continues onits path of growth, serving as one of thefastest-growing regions in the nation, its richhistory and culture remain strong and isexperienced through various local museumsand historical landmarks.

A Brief History


Avocational ArcheologistManuel Hinojosa is on aQuest to Uncover the Past

Local architect Manuel Hinojosaenjoys unearthing the history ofdeep South Texas and northern Mexico through artifacts from theMexican-American and Civil wars.

Among his finds are musket balls, Mexican warbuttons and discarded campfire utensils usedby soldiers from both sides of the Rio Grande.

“I have always been intrigued by history andthe quest to find answers,” said Hinojosa."Collecting and then putting a value on theseitems has been a lifelong interest of mine.”

That interest turned into an avocation whenhe purchased a metal detector 20 years ago.He first used it at his Port Isabel residenceand was immediately rewarded with Unionand Confederate artifacts. Altogether,Hinojosa's inaugural search with the metaldetector uncovered 200 items.

"I am always excited when I search forhidden treasures and can't wait to findmore,” he said.

Hinojosa has traveled all over South Texasand Mexico, as far south as Guanajuato,using his metal detector to uncover artifactsand, in turn, uncover history. To Hinojosa,digging up the past is more than a hobby; it'san avocation.

“Avocational archeologists like to berecognized for our contributions to the newknowledge that has been unearthed and wedon’t want to be labeled as looters or tombraiders,” said Hinojosa. “It’s very importantthat people understand that we revealartifacts to preserve and document history.Many times we come in before a site isdestroyed by a group constructing a buildingon historical property.”

Hinojosa, a partner at ERO Architects inMcAllen, said he uses his love of history andrespect for the people and culture of theregion in his designs. Over the years,Hinojosa has contributed his finds to areamuseums. He recently donated a collectionof Mexican and Civil War memorabilia valued

at over a $100,000 to the Port IsabelHistorical Museum because of the area'srole in both wars.

Hinojosa found remnants of the Mexican-American War near Boca Chica Beach at theformer site of Camp Belknap. When war wasdeclared on Mexico in May 1846, Congressauthorized the raising of 50,000 volunteertroops to supplement the regular army.General Zachary Taylor was quicklyinundated with volunteer soldiers arriving atBrazos Santiago and was forced to placethem in temporary encampments. CampBelknap was established in the summer of1846 on a long narrow rise of land; the firsthigh ground encountered after leaving the Gulf.

“When I first came upon it, it was anovergrown, two-mile-long hill, so I had to usea machete to move my way through it,” saidHinojosa. “There I found musket balls,Mexican war buttons and discardedcampfire utensils used by the soldiers.”

Thought to be the largest encampment forvolunteer soldiers – an estimated 7,000-8,000men, including several regiments from eightstates – by December 1846, Camp Bellknapwas completely empty.

Hinojosa said he was most fascinated byartifacts from Mexican soldiers.

“One of my first big finds was a breast platebelonging to Mexican soldier who served inthe 6th Infantry Regiment,” he said. “I dug upthis piece of treasure at a U.S. campsitewhere he fought at Palo Alto nearBrownsville. That discovery led me to wantto find out more about the Mexican soldierswho fought against the U.S. Army and thesoldiers who fought earlier during the TexasIndependence era.”

With metal detector in tow, Hinojosa thentraveled to Mexico almost every weekend insearch of more treasure and came uponhundreds of artifacts including many buttons,weapons and coins. Hinojosa followed thetrail of what appeared to be one soldier whohad stopped to make camp on his way tobattle. These sites hadn’t been seen in morethan 150 years, he said.

“Things we found revealed the migration ofthe soldier from Mexico City to severalbattlefields,” said Hinojosa, who traveledwith fellow enthusiasts Rod Bates and SteveWalker. “When we took the road north fromthe Rio Grande, it led us to San Antonio andeast of Houston. This trail led to the Alamo,San Jacinto and to Goliad – all TexasIndependence battlegrounds. On these trails,we were able to uncover one layer at a timeof the different historical periods, based onthe changes in the soldiers' uniforms andother items.”

According to Hinojosa, the Port Isabel andBrownsville areas were major military hubsduring the Civil War. U.S. ships transportingsoldiers docked just off the coast and, inspite of a gentleman's agreement thatprecluded fighting between Union andConfederate forces on the Rio Grande,Palmito Ranch near Brownsville was the siteof the last action of the Civil War in May1865. The Battle of Palmito Ranch, May 12-14,came more than a month after the surrenderof Gen. Robert E. Lee.

Thanks to Hinojosa’s discoveries, historianshave more information than was previouslyavailable to them and further documentationof the valuable role of the Rio Grande Valleyin past military strategies.

Digging for Treasure


JanuaryMcAllen International Travel Show at theMcAllen Convention Center. Free admission.(956) 682-2871

Texas Citrus Fiesta in Mission features thecoronation of Queen Citrianna, the ProductCostume Show, carnival, barbeque, theParade of Oranges and more. (956) 585-9724

Longest Causeway Run & Wellness Walkfeatures a 10K Run and 3-Mile Fitness Walkfrom Port Isabel across the beautiful QueenIsabella Causeway to South Padre Island.(956) 943-2262

FebruaryCharro Days in Brownsville is a weeklongevent celebrating the spirit of two culturesbetween the border towns of Brownsvilleand Matamoros. The event is kicked off withthe famous “Grito” and features carnivalrides, great food, folkloric dancers, mariachimusic and more! (956) 542-4245

Fiesta Edinburg is a weeklong celebrationthat takes place at the Municipal Park. Majorattractions include carnival rides, regionalfood, arts & crafts, plus top-notchentertainment. (956) 383-4974

RGV Music Festival at the MercedesLivestock Show Grounds features dozens oflive bands. (956) 383-0130

Harlingen Rotary Shrimp Fest is highlightedby door prizes, live and silent auctions and aguaranteed good time. For people too busy tostay and enjoy the fellowship, dinners to goare available. (956) 423-1014

Los Fresno’s PRCA Rodeo is the “BiggestLittle Rodeo in Texas,“ featuring food, acarnival, arts & crafts and a stock show.(956) 233-4488

The Ocelot Conservation Festival showcasesthis endangered wild cat with programs and activities for adults and children. (956) 748-3607

Starr County Youth Fair in Rio Grande Cityhas competitive contests in livestock, arts &crafts, baking, farm shop and educationalposters. Other highlights include a Saturday

morning parade, carnival, rodeo, talent show,pageant, petting zoo, youth scrambles, foodand fun events for the entire family. (956) 488-0122

Fiesta de La Feria features live bands, an art exhibit, raffle, car show, food andmerchandise booths, a children’s area andmuch more. (956) 797-2261

MarchAir Fiesta at the Commemorative Air ForceMuseum in Brownsville. Bring folding chairsor blankets and binoculars and enjoy variousflying acts! (956) 541-8585

Taste of the Valley at the Pharr InternationalConvention Center gives people theopportunity to sample food from some of theleading restaurants in the Rio Grande Valley.(956) 787-1481

BorderFest is a four-day festival in Hidalgothat celebrates a different country everyyear. The festival features music,entertainment, a parade, arts & crafts, acarnival and great food. (956) 843-2734

RGV Livestock Show in Mercedes supports4-H and Future Farmers of America highschool students as they show their wares.The event features a rodeo, carnival, nightly

dances, games, contests and otherentertainment. (956) 565-2456

Mexican Artisan Expo at the PharrInternational Convention Center offers nativeartisans an opportunity to distribute theirmerchandise at an affordable price to thepublic and wholesale prices to distributors.(956) 787-1481

Dia del Tourista (Tourist Appreciation Day),held in Nuevo Progreso, Mexico, is a streetfestival with food, entertainment and greatshopping. (956) 968-2102

AprilOnion Festival in Weslaco kicks off with livemusic and the lively “Onion Eating Contest.”Strolling acts, magicians, games, storytellers,arts & crafts and so much more are alsoavailable. (956) 968-2102

Viva Verde Earth Day Festival at QuintaMazatlan in McAllen. Celebrate the wondersof the Planet Earth. Cost: Free! Live birds ofprey and reptile shows are presented. (956)681-3370

MayDragonfly Days in Weslaco at the ValleyNature Center and Estero Llano Grande StatePark. Explore the world of the dragonfly and

Calendar of Events


enjoy live music and arts & crafts. (956) 968-2102

JuneBlues on the Hill at McKelvey Park inHarlingen is a summer series featuringseveral Blues bands. Lawn chairs and beachtowels are welcome. (956) 427-8870

JulyMcAllen’s Fourth of July “Concert in the Sky”is an outrageously good fireworks displaythat’s the biggest in South Texas. (956) 681-3333

Edinburg Texas Cook’em, located at EdinburgMunicipal Park, features T-Bone steak,chicken, ribs and brisket. Join us forfireworks and live music, a family fun zone, abarbeque and more! (956) 383-4974

Port Mansfield Fishing Tournament (956) 944-2354

Texas International Fishing Tournament onSouth Padre Island is a fun angler adventurewith five fun-filled days of activities. (956) 943-8438

AugustLadies Kingfish Tournament on South PadreIsland draws participants from all over thecountry and is one of the largest all-womentournaments in Texas. (956) 761-4412

SeptemberCinesol Film Festival makes its way acrossthe Rio Grande Valley celebrating theachievement of filmmaking and bringingvoice and vision through film and videodirectly to border communities. (956) 793-8783

OctoberPalmFest International Folklife Celebration atthe McAllen Convention Center. The City’sculture, cuisine and heritage take stageduring this community-wide celebration. Livemusic, a fajita cook-off, games and ashowcase of local artists are featured. (956) 369-1771

Latin Jazz Festival in Brownsville bringstogether some of the biggest names in LatinJazz for three days of the best music anddancing in the Rio Grande Valley. (956) 831-9590

SPI BikeFest “Roar by the Shore” is an openrally with four days of the best food,merchandise and live entertainment. (956) 668-7484

Texas Butterfly Festival at Bentsen RGV StatePark World Birding Center in Mission.


Activities include a hawk watch and familyactivities such as kite flying, crafts, games, atram ride, butterfly walks and much more.(956) 584-9156

The Taste of Harlingen showcases localrestaurants and their culinary expertise tothe public. (956)-216-4901

Wild in Willacy Boot Fest in Raymondville is anature and heritage festival with field trips,ranch tours, cook-offs and other familyactivities. (956) 689-3171

NovemberHarlingen Birding Festival features a tradeshow, a variety of seminars and field trips.(956) 423-5440

Veterans Day Parade in Pharr boastsfireworks at the PSJA Stadium, along with a program of great entertainment andhonorable dignitaries addressing theaudience. (956) 787-1481

Veterans Day Parade at the Iwo JimaMonument in Harlingen starring cadets fromthe Marine Military Academy. (956) 421-9235

Lights for Life Ceremony at Valley BaptistMedical Center in Harlingen. Join us for atree lighting ceremony, caroling andrefreshments. (956) 389-1614

World’s Champion Shrimp Cook-Off in PortIsabel features live entertainment, craftsand over a ton of fresh Gulf shrimp preparedby professional and amateur chefs whocompete for top honors. (956) 943-2262

DecemberPort Isabel’s Christmas Lighted Boat Parade.Viewing areas are located on the shores ofthe Laguna Madre Bay. (956) 943-2262

Hidalgo Festival of Lights has nine locationsfeaturing an illuminated parade, concerts,live reindeer and trolley tours. (956) 843-2734

Dias Festivos Marketplace takes place at theMcAllen Convention Center. Kick off holidayshopping every year with the annual eventhosted by the Junior League of McAllen.(956) 682-0071

Edinburg Night of Lights Parade kicks offwith live family entertainment, music, foodbooths, games and more. Don’t miss thelighted parade, plus a visit from Santa Claus!(956) 383-4974

Zoo Nights and Lights at the Gladys PorterZoo in Brownsville – a holiday event for thewhole family with more than 800 luminariabags, 135 lighted figurines and church andschool choirs. (956) 546-1787

Celebrate New Year’s with McAllen’s ownball drop. Thousands flock every year to the17th Street entertainment district tocelebrate the New Year. (956) 681-3333

Things to Do, Places to Be


Basilica of Our Lady of San Juan Del ValleNational ShrineThe original incarnation of this now-famousBasilica was a small wooden shrine. Thesecond shrine, built in 1954, was destroyedby fire in 1970 when a suicidal pilot crashedinto the tower, radioing ahead for children toget out. The current 3,500-seat shrine drawsthousands of pilgrims each year from acrossLatin America. Open daily, San Juan.(956) 787-0033

Cine El ReyA multi-entertainment complex housed in anhistoric movie theater. Located in the centerof a designated entertainment district inMcAllen, Cine El Rey has become the placeto view locally produced films. 311 S. 17th St.(956) 971-9825

Coastal Studies LabA satellite of the University of Texas-PanAmerican, this lab studies and exhibitsmarine life such as crustaceans and marinevertebrates, as well as plant life. 100 MarineLab Dr., SPI. (956) 761-2644www.utpa.edu/csl

Commemorative Air Force – Rio GrandeValley WingThis facility, positioned adjacent to theBrownsville-South Padre Island InternationalAirport, houses 15 vintage airplanes in flyingcondition. Other exhibits include antiquemilitary vehicles, weapons and uniforms. Anair show is held in March. (956) 541-8585

Dolphin Research & Sea Life Nature CenterTouch tanks provide a hands-on experience,where you can hold living specimens likestarfish, hermit crabs, sea urchins and snails.Through videos, exhibits and boat tours, theSea Life Center tells the story of its researchand conservation efforts. You'll also get aninside look at the center's work with the

Laguna Madre Tribe of Bottlenose Dolphins.Located at the end of the causeway on SPI,the Center is open Monday-Saturday, 10a.m.-4 p.m., and Sunday at 11 a.m. (956) 299-1957 www.spinaturecenter.com


Gladys Porter ZooWith more than 1,500 animal specimens,Brownsville’s Gladys Porter Zoo specializesin collecting and breeding endangeredspecies. The 31-acre park has such zoofavorites as gorillas, giraffes, lions andrhinos, as well as many other exotic animals.Virtually all animals live in open exhibits andcan be viewed in their natural surroundings.Open Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m., andSaturday-Sunday, 9 a.m.-6 p.m. (956) 546-7187 www.gpz.org

Harlingen Municipal AuditoriumTheater productions, dance performances,fight competitions and conventions are just afew types of events that regularly visit thenewly remodeled venue at 1204 Fair ParkBlvd. in Harlingen. www.myharlingen.us

Iwo Jima MemorialFashioned from a photo of U.S. Marinesplanting the flag on Iwo Jima, this was theoriginal statue used to cast the better-knownmonument in Arlington, VA. It is located onthe campus of Harlingen’s Marine MilitaryAcademy. A Visitors’ Center includes amuseum focusing on the battle with a 30-minute film and a gift shop. (956) 412-2207

La Lomita MissionBuilt in 1865 by the Oblates of MaryImmaculate Fathers, the little adobe chapelstill stands next to the Rio Grande River,south of the City of Mission, which wasnamed for it. In 1975, La Lomita (little hill) wasentered in the National Register of HistoricPlaces due to the important role it played inthe development of the lower Rio GrandeValley. It is located off Farm Road 1016, nearthe Rio Grande, five miles south of Mission,in southwestern Hidalgo County.

Los Caminos del RioLos Caminos del Rio (the Roads of the River)features more than 45 sites along both sidesof the Rio Grande that have contributed tothe area’s heritage. A Los Caminos del Riobrochure, which includes site descriptionsand a detailed map, may be available at theclosest Chamber of Commerce or online atwww.thc.state.tx.us/heritagetourism/htcaminos.html. Explore Indian trails,Spanish colonial villages and vast ranchingempires.

Los Ebanos FerryThe sole remaining hand-drawn ferry in theU.S. connects the U.S. with Diaz Ordaz,Mexico. The ferry holds three cars andseveral people at a time. Visitors may park onthe U.S. side and ride across and back for a

small fee. Passport required!McAllen Convention CenterLocated on the corner of Ware Road andHighway 83, it hosts many music events andactivities, including the Valley SymphanyOrchestra. (956) 681-3800.www.mcallenconventioncenter.net

Narciso Martinez Cultural Arts CenterThis Latino cultural arts center is named forthe renowned Mexican accordion playerknown as the Father of Conjunto – a popularform of Tex-Mex music. The San Benitocenter promotes Latino heritage through art,music, theater, film, dance and literaryprograms. (956) 361-0110

Palo Alto BattlefieldSite of the first battle of the Mexican-American War, this field is a NationalHistoric Site operated by the National ParkService and open daily from 8 a.m.-5 p.m.,with exhibits, interpretive tales, a bookstoreand special events. (956) 541-2785

Palmito Ranch BattlefieldSite of the last battle of the U.S. Civil War,after most Confederate armies surrendered.Historic markers along Highway 4 east ofBrownsville.


Port Isabel LighthouseOne of the oldest lighthouses in the state, thePort Isabel Lighthouse was built in 1853 toguide ships through Brazos Santiago and thebarrier islands. Recently restored to its 1880sappearance, it is the only lighthouse on theTexas coast open to the public.(956) 943-7602

A replica of the Keeper’s Cottage houses thePort Isabel Chamber of Commerce, historicdisplays and tourist information. (956) 943-2262

Rio Grande City and Roma Historic DistrictsAt Rio Grande City, visit the beautifullyrestored La Borde House, the former FortRinggold, now home to the Rio Grande CityIndependent School District and a replica ofthe Grotto of Lourdes in France. Roma’sNational Historic Landmark District by theplaza features many restored historicbuildings. Walk across the 770-foot-long,pedestrian-only Roma-Ciudad MiguelAleman steel suspension bridge, built in thelate 1920s.

Schlitterbahn Beach Water ParkThis 26-acre park is the first Schlitterbahnventure outside of New Braunfels, TX, thenumber-one-rated water park in the U.S. Thecenterpiece of the park is a five-storysandcastle with animated charactersmounted on six turrets connected by ramps,stairs and net climbs. There are man-madewaves, five beaches, an activity pool, a waveriver and sand volleyball courts. Open April-September. 33261 State Park Rd. 100, SPI(956) 772-7873 schlitterbahn.com/spi

Sea Turtle, Inc.Established by Ila Loetscher, the legendary“Turtle Lady,” come see the sea turtles at theSea Turtle Refuge and Museum. OpenTuesday-Sunday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., at 6617Padre Blvd., SPI. (956) 761-4511www.seaturtleinc.org

State Farm Arena This $20 million, multipurpose complex with a6,800-seat arena is home to the Killer BeesIce Hockey team, Valley Vipers BasketballNBA-D and arena football. Plus, there are awide range of shows, events and concerts.(956) 843-6688 www.statefarmarena.com

Tejano Walk of FameThis Edinburg attraction honors Tejano musicstars. At its unveiling in 1999, the Tejano Walkof Fame inducted five musicians whosenames were engraved in a marble star andplaced in the walkway. Five musicians are

inducted every year during Hispanic HeritageMonth. (956) 383-4974

Texas Travel Information CenterTravel counselors offer free maps, calendarsand literature, as well as help chart routes atthis Center, operated by the TX Departmentof Highways and Public Transportation.There are free tourism audio/visual shows.Junction U.S. 77 and U.S. 83 in Harlingen.(956) 428-4477

Valley Race ParkValley Race Park in Harlingen offersseasonal greyhound racing, November-April,with year-round, full-card simulcast racingfrom racetracks throughout the U.S. The80,000-square-foot, air-conditioned facilityhas three dining areas to entertain family,friends and business associates. (956) 412-7223

http://www.statefarmarena.com/


The Rio Grande Valley is a place fullof culture and history, andnowhere is this more prevalentthan in the region’s collection ofmuseums. From one that celebrates

the excitement and dangers of the sea toanother that honors a city located at the bottomof a lake, the Valley’s one-of-a-kind pastcomes to life through these exclusive southTexas museums.

A Unique Maritime HistoryWith a location along the Gulf Coast, theValleyhas a dynamic maritime history that can beexplored at the Museums of Port Isabelcomplex. This complex hosts three facilities,including the Port Isabel Lighthouse, the PortIsabel Historical Museum and the uniqueTreasures of the Gulf Museum – the latter ofwhich focuses on three 1554 Spanishshipwrecks that occurred on the northernend of South Padre Island.

Visitors to the Treasures of the Gulf Museumlearn the stories behind these ill-fatedshipwrecks and the dangers of navigatingthe seas in the 16th century. Displays featureoriginal artifacts salvaged from the wrecks,including coins, silver planchas (disks) andweapons. The museum houses an interactiveChildren’s Discovery Lab, complete withinformation on marine archaeology and asmall-scale ship for kids to board and imaginesetting sail on the Gulf waters. Also includedon-site are the Ship Theater and NauticalGift Shop.

The Treasures of the Gulf Museum is open10 a.m.-4 p.m., Tuesday-Saturday.

Irrigation: Transforming Life in the RioGrande ValleyThe inception of steam-powered irrigation inthe early 1900s forever changed the landscapeof the Rio Grande Valley, reshaping aquasi-

desert rangeland into rich farmland ideal foryear-round harvesting. Irrigation transformedthe Valley into an agricultural powerhouse,and the Hidalgo Pumphouse Museum recognizes its impact on life in South Texas.

Housed in a 1909 pumphouse originallyowned and operated by the Louisiana-RioGrande Canal Company, the HidalgoPumphouse Museum features authenticmachinery, including pumps, steam enginesand boilers, and a collection of displaysexplaining the irrigation process and itsunquestionable influence in the Valley. Themuseum is part of the World Birding Center,providing opportunities for exploration in itssurrounding acreage.

Museums of the Rio Grande Valley


MUSEUM LISTINGd Brownsville Heritage Museum

1325 E. Washington St., Brownsville(956) 541-5560

d Brownsville Museum Of Fine Art660 E. Ringgold St., Brownsville(956) 542-0941

d Children's Museum of Brownsville501 E. Ringgold St., Brownsville(956) 548-9300

d Commemorative Air Force RGV955 S. Minnesota Ave., Brownsville(956) 541-8585

d Costumes of The Americans Museum501 Ringgold St., Ste 5, Brownsville(956) 547-6890

d Donna Hooks Fletcher Museum318 S. Main St.(956) 464-9989

d Harlingen Arts & Heritage Museum2425 Boxwood St., Harlingen(956) 216-4900

d Historic Brownsville Museum641 E. Madison St., Brownsville(956) 548-1313

d International Museum of Art & Science1900 W. Nolana Ave., McAllen(956) 682-1564

d Iwo Jima Museum Gift Shop320 Iwo Jima Blvd., Harlingen(956) 421-9234

d Mission Historical Museum900 Doherty Ave., Mission(956) 580-8646

d Museum of South Texas History200 N. Closner Blvd., Edinburg(956) 383-6911

d Old Hidalgo Pumphouse900 S. 2nd St., Hidalgo(956) 843-8686

d Port Isabel Historic Museum/Treasures of the Gulf317 E. Railroad Ave., Port Isabel(956) 943-7061

d Public Art2200 Boca Chica Blvd., Brownsville(956) 546-9388

d Raymondville Historical Museum427 S. 7th St., Raymondville(956) 689-6604

d Museum of San Benito/Texas Conjunto Music Hall210 E. Heywood St., San Benito(956) 399-9991

d Weslaco Bicultural Museum500 S. Texas Blvd., Weslaco(956) 968-9142


With its bountiful lakes, riversand resacas, beaches,nature refuges and stateparks, experiencing thegreat outdoors in the Rio

Grande Valley can be as easy as walking outyour backdoor. And thanks to the temperateclimate, Deep South Texas offers somethingfor everyone almost any time of the year –whether you’re an active outdoorsman orjust sitting in the stands cheering on your favorite professional sports team.

If you love the outdoors and fishing’s yourthing, South Padre Island is the Valley’sgateway to the Gulf of Mexico, and just a fewmiles offshore you can catch your fill of redsnapper. Or travel more than 50 miles into theopen Gulf and try your hand at snagging biggame fish like marlin, tarpon, sailfish,amberjack or tuna. Up the coast severalmiles sits Port Mansfield, one of the leastpopulated, but most popular, fishingdestinations in the country. It offers shorecasting, public pier and drift fishing, as wellas guide boats for the deep-sea angler. Andlying in between Padre Island and the Texascoast is one of the most unspoiled andenvironmentally unique bay systems in theU.S. – the Laguna Madre, where speckledtrout, flounder and redfish are plentiful. Forfreshwater fishing, set your boat onto FalconLake, nationally known for its bass fishing.

Hunters, too, flock to the South Texasborderland, which is a premier destinationfor white-winged dove hunting. There issome hunting on public lands. For instance,the Lower Rio Grande Valley Wildlife Refuge

has approximately 3,500 acres open to dovehunting and 12,500 acres for big gamehunting. The LRGVWR also conductsseasonal shotgun and archery hunts forwhite-tailed deer, wild turkey and javelina.Another option is to search out a privateranch. Several ranch owners offer huntingleases. To find one, do an Internet search,call your Chamber of Commerce or visit alocal gun store and ask the guy behind thecounter. If it’s waterfowl you’re after, thosewho know say head to the Laguna Madre.Guides are available for a moderate price.

Professional sports are on the rise in DeepSouth Texas. And, once again, the Valley hassomething to offer almost all year-round,whether it’s baseball, basketball, football orhockey. The Valley is home to threeprofessional baseball teams – the Rio GrandeValley WhiteWings, the Edinburg Roadrunnersand the newest franchise, the McAllenThunder. All are part of the AA IndependentNorth American League. The season runsfrom late May through early September.

If you’re a basketball fan you’ll want to rootfor the Rio Grande Valley Vipers. The Vipersare the Development League team for theHouston Rockets, so there's a good chanceyou'll catch a rising star. The Vipers tookhome the D-League championship trophy justtwo years after the team was founded in2007. You can catch the Vipers at State FarmArena in Hidalgo.

And don’t think the Rio Grande Valley is toofar south for hockey. State Farm Arena isalso home to the Killer Bees, part of theCentral Hockey League. A two-time CHL

franchise of the year, the Killer Bees areaffiliated with the San Antonio Rampage ofthe AHL and the Florida Panthers of the NHL.

But the action doesn’t stop there. When theVipers and Killer Bees stop playing, indoorfootball takes over State Farm Arena with theRio Grande Valley Magic. The Magic play an11-game season as part of the Lone StarFootball League.

Sports ListingFive semi-professional teams are proud tocall the Rio Grande Valley home. Arenafootball, baseball, basketball and hockey –we have it all! Fans can watch their favoriteteams indoors at the State Farm Arena oroutdoors at the Edinburg Stadium orHarlingen Stadium – it’s sports season in theValley every month of the year!

Arena Football/Rio Grande Valley MagicLoneStar Football League. All home gamesplayed at State Farm Arena in Hidalgo.(956) 630-5425. www.hometeamsonline.com

Baseball/Edinburg RoadrunnersNorth American League Baseball. All homegames played at the Edinburg BaseballStadium, May-August. (956) 380-4446.www.roadrunnerball.com

Baseball/McAllen ThunderNorth American League Baseball. All homegames played at Edinburg Baseball Stadium.May-Aug. (956) 380-6256www.mcallenthunder.com

Baseball/Rio Grande Valley WhitewingsNorth American League Baseball. All homegames played at the Harlingen Stadium,May-August. (956) 423-9464.www.whitewingsbaseball.com

Basketball/Rio Grande Valley Vipers2010 NBA Development League Champions.All home games played at the State Farm Arenain Hidalgo, November-April. (956) 748-6223.www.nba.com/dleague/riograndevalley

Hockey/Rio Grande Valley Killer Bees2008-09 Central Hockey League Franchise ofthe Year. All home games played at the StateFarm Arena in Hidalgo, October-March.(956) 843-7825. www.killerbeehockey.com

Take in the Outdoors Year-Round in the Valley


World-Class Birding, ButterflyFestivals and Nature HabitatsFuel a Thriving EcotourismIndustry

In the peace of early morning, avidbirdwatcher Tim Hicks finds enjoymentin the little things, like sighting the illusiveGolden-crowned Warbler. Birding is apassion for this retired postal worker –

one of thousands of nature enthusiasts whohave helped make Deep South Texas one oftwo top birding destinations in North America.

The World Birding Centers – a network ofnine public bird sanctuaries under the TexasDepartment of Wildlife – along with similarbirding attractions, like Frontera AudubonCenter and other public and private birdsanctuaries, have helped ecotourism thrivein the Rio Grande Valley. “The sighting ofrare and hard-to-find species help drivetourism,” said Sarah Williams, marketingdirector for the Frontera Audubon Center inWeslaco, a 15-acre tract purchased fromprivate land owners.

“This year has been a perfect storm forFrontera Audubon because we have had two rare bird species sightings this winter,”she said.

Williams said the Golden-crowned Warblerand the female Crimson-collared Grosbeakwere both spotted in November 2011. TheCrimson-collard Grosbeak is primarily foundin northeastern Mexico from central NuevoLeón and central Tamaulipas south tonorthern Veracruz; however, it occasionallystrays into the Rio Grande Valley. TheGolden-crowned Warbler breeds fromMexico south to Buenos Aires, Argentina.

The number ofvisitors to the Centerincreasesexponentially as rarebirds are sighted. ATwitter- and Web-based alert systemallows birders acrossthe country to benotified when a rarebird is sighted.Serious birders willhop on a plane inhopes of adding arare bird to their listof lifetime or annualbird sightings,William says. In 2005,for example, whenthe Elegant Trogan,Crimson CollaredGrosbeak and WhiteThroated Robin weresighted, FronteraAudubon sawattendance rise fromjust over 1,100 tonearly 6,000 visitors.

The Rio Grande Valleyis also home to morethan 300 butterfly and150 dragonfly species.

The Valley hosts numerous annual naturefestivals, including several birding festivals, adragonfly festival and a butterfly festival thatattract tourists and locals alike. Area bedand breakfasts, ranches, hotels, touroperators and restaurants derive much oftheir business from ecotourists. Bed andbreakfasts cater specifically to wildlifeenthusiasts, advertising birding, butterflywatching and fishing. Some bed andbreakfasts, such as the Brown Pelican Innand The Inn at Chachalaca Bend, cater tobirders and offer birding packages with boattours and photo safaris. The Inn atChachalaca Bend even includes birdingchecklists for their property. The BrownPelican Inn’s birding package includes timefor visits to state parks and wildernesspreserves in the surrounding area.

University studies show that the naturetourism has been steadily growing. As a

result, it's helping to ensure that naturalresources are preserved and well managed.As ranches, cities and other entities learnhow to make birding and other naturetourism recreation viable business, itencourages land and resources to bereserved for nature. Government grants andother social funding also help local naturetourism efforts preserve and secure habitat.Car rentals, room rentals, meal purchasesand other ecotourism-related expenditurestotal more than $300 million annually,according to a 2011 report from Texas A&MUniversity.

With dozens of public and privateorganizations supporting local ecotourism –and wildlife spanning ocelots, bobcats andgreen jays – the Rio Grande Valley hasearned its place as a world class naturetourism destination.

Ecotourism


Andy Bowie County ParkNorth of the city limits, Andy Bowie CountyPark has two beachfront pavilions, picnictables, showers and restrooms and a largeparking area. Horseback riders can trotthrough surf at very affordable hourly rates.Rent a wide variety of unusual toys – rafts,giant floating tricycles and more – to frolic inthe surf. Access your inner teenager withparasailing, wave runners, bungee jumping(for the strong of heart), race cars and a vastarray of street-legal fun vehicles.Beachcombing and sunset watching areequally popular activities. Open daily. (956) 761-3704, (800) 343-2368

Bentsen-Rio Grande Valley State ParkThis 762-acre park in Mission is the WBCheadquarters and has subtropical vegetationand resaca woodlands, an exhibit hall, coffeebar, gift shop, picnic areas, a two-storyobservation tower, bird blinds, nature trailsand a Nature Center. Over 300 species ofbirds and over 200 species of butterfliesdocumented. (956) 585-1107www.stateparks.com/bentsen_rio_grande_valley.html

Edinburg Scenic Wetland TrailsEdinburg Scenic Wetland Trails features 40acres of scenic wetland trails, as well asnature trails, observation decks, ponds, abutterfly garden and an educational center.(956) 381-9922, www.EdinburgWBC.org

Estero Llano Grande State ParkThis park offers something special, as it isthe largest wetlands environment in the WBCNetwork. This 230-acre refuge attracts aspectacular array of South Texas wildlifewith its varied landscape of shallow lakes,woodlands and thorn forest. (956) 565-3919

Harlingen Arroyo ColoradoThe Harlingen Thicket is a 40-acre tract withhiking trails, a remnant of Tamaulipas nativebrush with an impressive plant variety inurban Harlingen. Hugh Ramsey Nature Parkhas photo blinds, nature trails, walking trails,a picnic area, ponds and streams adjacent toan interpretive pavilion. The area is coveredin Honey Mesquite, Texas Ebony, Huisache,Brasil, Retama and Granjeno. Good migranttraps in spring. (956) 427-8873

Old Hidalgo PumphouseThe only remaining steam-powered irrigationpumps in the Rio Grande Valley, the OldHidalgo Pumphouse is one of the originalpumping stations for the Valley’s vastirrigation system, which converted desertland into one of the most productiveagricultural areas in the nation. Hummingbirdand butterfly gardens surround the museum.(956) 843-8686

Quinta MazatlanQuinta Mazatlan, the McAllen wing of theWBC, features a historic adobe home, art

gallery, store, exhibits and birding trails. (956) 681-3370 www.quintamazatlan.com

Resaca De La PalmaThis 1700-acre park includes a four-mileresaca, old-growth forest, riparianwoodlands, Ebony-Anacua thorn-scrub andgrasslands, nature trails and four scenicobservation decks. (956) 350-2020

Roma BluffsAlong the sandstone bluffs of the Rio GrandeRiver, you will find steps leading down thesteep bank (be careful, footing is uneven) toa picnic area. There is a new woodenoverlook above with scenic views of the riverand Mexico. The south end of the HistoricPlaza and west of the International Bridge isthe best wildlife viewing spot. (956) 849-4930

South Padre Island Birding and Nature CenterThe South Padre Island Birding and NatureCenter is home to an exhibit hall, 4,800 linearfeet of wheelchair accessible boardwalks onthe Laguna Madre, seven bird blinds, anauditorium, a conference room and a five-story observation tower with elevator. (956) 243-8179, www.spibirding.com

Nature Attractions


Adolph Thomae County ParkOn FM 2925, this park has boating, fishing,hiking, picnic facilities and RV and tent sites.(956) 748-2044www.co.cameron.tx.us/parks/thomae_park.htm

Anzalduas County ParkLocated in Mission, this park ranks amongthe most popular birding sites in the Valley.Bring a basket of goodies and enjoy the largepicnic area. (956) 585-5311

Arroyo ColoradoThis last-minute offshoot of the Rio Grandeoriginates southwest of Harlingen. Wildlife ofthe Laguna Madre venture well up into theriver’s mouth. Anglers and boaters find thatfishing the “other river’s” brackish waters(half saltwater, half fresh) can be veryrewarding. Nature lovers enjoy walking thetrails and observing wildlife at Hugh RamseyNature Park along the river in Harlingen.

Boca Chica Wetlands and BeachSit atop tall white dunes at Boca ChicaWetlands and Beach and watch migratorybirds such as falcons and pelicans thatfrequent the trees on the elevated islands.Brownsville’s Boca Chica Beach lies southacross the ship channel from South PadreIsland at the mouth of the Rio Grande.

Chimney ParkMarked by an historic chimney that oncepowered irrigation pumps on the Rio Grande,this privately owned and operated park inMission is primarily a boat ramp facility. It isclose to restaurants and bars on the riverwhere you can dock and dance.

Delta LakeThis man-made lake was formed as areservoir to supply northern mid-Valley farmswith irrigation. A park offers a pavilion andlarge picnic area. Swimming is not allowed.Open daily.

DivingTwo sites in the Valley offer excellent scubadiving. One is an artificial reef built by theTexas Department of Parks and Wildlifeseven miles off South Padre Island from PortIsabel. The other is the Port MansfieldLiberty Ship Reef, located 15 miles off PortMansfield. These artificial reefs havebecome encrusted with invertebrates suchas barnacles, corals and sponges that attractgrouper, snapper, amberjack, triggerfish,tarpon and shark, making them ideal sites forscuba diving.

DolphinsSouth Padre Island’s bottlenose dolphins arewild and free, enjoying the rich waters of theLaguna Madre Bay and the inshore waters ofthe Gulf of Mexico. It is against the law tofeed, swim with or touch wild dolphins, butthere are many dolphin-watch boats on theIsland.

Falcon Dam, Lake and State ParkLocated on the Rio Grande, this 115,600-acrereservoir offers great freshwater fishing andwaterskiing. Low rolling hills and the rusticbeauty of western Starr County surround it.By reservation, camp out a short walk fromthe water in screened-in cabins. You’ll alsofind bathhouses, RV hook-ups, boat rampsand picnic areas. Open to daytime visitors.


Bring your passport if you visit the Dam.(956) 848-5327www.tpwd.state.tx.us/spdest/findadest/parks/falcon

HuntingThe Valley is the only region in the U.S.where white-wing dove can be taken.Hunting leases are also available for white-tailed deer, wild turkey, javelin and wild pig.

Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife RefugeEast of Rio Hondo, bordering the LagunaMadre, this 90,000-acre federal preserve isthe Valley’s biggest wildlife refuge. Itsupports hundreds of bird species, as well asocelots, deer, javelin, squirrels, long-tailedweasels and alligator. Mountain lions arerare but have been spotted. After checking inat the Visitor’s Center, explore the LagunaMadre’s harsh but beautiful ecosystem by

driving or walking along the mapped roads.(956) 748-3607www.fws.gov/southwest/refuges/texas/STRC/laguna/Index_Laguna.html

Laguna MadreTake a daylong deep sea fishing excursion orwade-fish in the bay off the banks of themainland or the island nationally renownedfor red drum, speckled trout and flounder.Just north of the Queen Isabella MemorialCauseway in Port Isabel is a long, lighted pier.

La Sal del Rey Tract and La Sal Vieja TractIndians, conquistadors and Confederatesoldiers once traversed the banks of thesehistoric salt lakes. Both of these tracts areexcellent birding sites and are open fromsunrise to sunset daily. Stay on trails andenter only through marked entry points.

National Butterfly CenterThe North American Butterfly AssociationButterfly Park at Mission is near the WorldBirding Center and Bentsen Rio Grande StatePark. It has walking trails with interpretivesigns, gardens and more butterflies than youcan count. (956) 583-9009www.nationalbutterflycenter.org

Port MansfieldBordered by the King Ranch, this sportfishing hot spot was once a smallcommercial fishing village and servicing portfor oil companies. Wading and pier fishingboth produce spectacular results. Lodging,restaurants, marinas, RV parks and huntingand fishing guides, as well as a 3,200-footlighted runway for private aircraft areavailable. (956) 944-2354


Rio Grande Wildlife CorridorA number of agencies are working togetherto create the Rio Grande Wildlife Corridor bybuying adjacent tracts and designating themas wildlife sanctuaries. The resulting corridorrunning the length of the Valley will be muchthe same as before farmers cleared itsnatural habitat. (956) 784-7500www.friendsofsouthtexasrefuges.org

Santa Ana National Wildlife RefugeBoasting almost 400 species of birds, this2,088-acre refuge attracts birders from allover the world. Walk on multiple trails ofdifferent lengths totaling 12 miles underneathhanging Spanish moss. A new, 100-foot-longcanopy walk gives visitors an elevated viewof nature. Stop at three manmade lakes andbird watching blinds. Tram tours areavailable on seasonal schedules. Open dailyfrom dawn to dusk. The Visitors’ Center isopen year-round, 8 a.m.-4 p.m., except majorholidays. (956) 784-7500

South Padre IslandIsla Blanca Park has two beachfrontpavilions, a 1,000-foot sea walk, a marina,restaurants, gift shops, volleyball nets andshowers. Stroll or fish off huge granitejetties. RV camping is available. (956) 761-5493, www.sopadre.com

Valley Nature Center – WeslacoA 3/4-mile, self-guided nature trail takesvisitors through a six-acre native forest withcactus beds, small ponds and butterflygardens. Birds of every feather call the parkhome, as do butterflies, dragonflies, lizards,tortoises and other small wildlife. Thenonprofit nature center features a natureexhibit hall, meeting facilities, a referencelibrary, nature books and a gift shop. Natureprograms are offered for children as well asadults, and hands-on opportunities to learnabout and enjoy the unique ecosystems andwildlife of the Valley are available forenthusiasts of all ages. (956) 969-2475www.valleynaturecenter.org

World Birding Center SitesA grand vision takes flight at the new WorldBirding Center. Texas Parks & Wildlife andU.S. Fish & Wildlife Services join nine Valleycommunities dotted along 120 miles of riverroad from South Padre Island west to Roma.Novices as well as advanced birders andnaturalists are invited to enjoy viewingstations, observation towers, interpretivecenters and programs. (956) 585-1107www.worldbirdingcenter.org


Golf Courses

If you love to hit the links, you've come to the right place. A poll done by the National Golf Foundation shows the RioGrande Valley has more playable daysof golf per year than anywhere else in

the U.S. You’ll definitely work up a sweat during late spring through summer, but themoderate temperatures from late fall throughearly spring will keep you playing round afterround. There are more than 20 qualitycourses to choose from – and at reasonablerates. The volume and variety of golfcourses, many designed by some of the topcourse architects in the country, provide awide range of styles, themes and levels ofdifficulty – truly something for everyone! Following is an alphabetical list of Valleycourses, including number of holes, par and yardage.

d Adobe Wells Park4901 Daffodil, #465, McAllen, TX 78501(956) 686-8801Private/18/54/2237

d Alamo Country Club438 Country Club Dr., Alamo, TX 78516(956) 787-0907Private/9/3/2332

d Brownsville Golf Center1800 W. San Marcelo, Brownsville, TX 78526(956) 541-2582Public/18/70/6144

d Club at Cimarron1200 S. Sharry Rd., Mission, TX 78572(956) 581-7408Private/18/72/6821

d Cottonwood Creek Country Club1001 Ed Carey Dr., Harlingen, TX 78552(956) 428-0766Public/9/3/2535

d Ebony Hills Golf Course300 W. Palm Dr., Edinburg, TX 78539(956) 292-2144Public/9/35/2885

d Fort Brown Memorial Golf Course300 River Levee Rd., Brownsville, TX 78520(956) 542-9861Public/18/72/6112

d Harlingen Country Club5500 El Camino Real, Harlingen, TX 78552(956) 412-4113Private/18/72/6541

d Llano Grande Golf Course370 Golf Course Rd., Mercedes, TX 78570(956) 565-3351Public/18/72/6718

d Long Island Village Golf Course950 S. Garcia St., Port Isabel, TX 78578(956) 943-7520Public/18/3/1449

d Los Lagos Golf Club1720 S. Raul Longoria Rd.Edinburg, TX 78539(956) 316-0444Public/18/72/7188

d Martin Valley Ranches Golf Course7607 Hole in One Dr., Mission, TX 78572(956) 585-6330Public/27/72/6695

d McAllen Country Club615 Wichita, McAllen, TX 78502(956) 686-0923Private/18/71/6454

d Meadow Creek in the Valley1300 Circle Dr., Mission, TX 78572(956) 581-6267Public/18/70/6100

d Monte Cristo Golf & Country Club2919 N. Kenyon Rd., Edinburg, TX 78541(956) 381-0964www.freegolfforlife.comSemi-private/18/71/6392

d Palm View Golf Course2701 S. Ware Rd., McAllen, TX 78503(956) 688-3444Public/18/72/6771

d The Palms at Mid-Valley Golf Course2.5 miles north on FM 491Mercedes, TX 78570(956) 565-3211Public/18/72/6570


d Rancho Viejo Resort & Country Club1 Rancho Viejo Dr., Rancho Viejo, TX 78575(956) 350-4000Private/36/70/6847

d Raymondville Municipal Golf Course1 mile south on Hwy 77Raymondville, TX 78580(956) 689-9904Public/9/36/2990

d River Bend Resort4551 U.S. Military Hwy 281Brownsville, TX 78520(956) 548-0192Semi-private/18/70/6735

d Shary Municipal Golf Course2201 Mayberry, Mission, TX 78572(956) 580-8770Public/27/70,71,73/6025

d Short Shot Golf Course304 N. Cesar Chavez, Alamo, TX 78516(956) 702-1818Public/18/54/1290

d South Padre Island Golf Club1 Golf Course Rd. (FM 510)Laguna Vista, TX 78578(956) 943-5678Public/18/72/6800

d Tierra del Sol Golf Club700 E. Hall Acres Rd., Pharr, TX 78577(956) 702-2320Public/18/72/6767

d Tierra Santa Golf Club1901 Club de Amistad, Weslaco, TX 78596(956) 973-1811Public/18/72/7139

d Tony Butler Municipal Golf Course2640 S.” M” St., Harlingen, TX 78550(956) 430-6685Public/27/71/6320

d Treasure Hills Country Club3009 N. Augusta National Dr.Harlingen, TX 78550(956) 425-1700Semi-private/18/72/6920

d Valley International Country Club95 Country Club Rd., Brownsville, TX 78521(956) 546-5331Semi-private/18/70/6538

d Village Executive Golf Course2 miles south of Business 83 on FM 1015,Weslaco, TX 78596(956) 968-6516Public/9/31/1563


NightlifeArt, Culture and SpecialEvents Abound in South Texas

Michelangelo, arguably one ofthe greatest artists of all time,once said, "…a beautifulthing never gives so muchpain as does failing to hear

and see it."

From fine-art exhibitions to installationsfeaturing local artists, there are opportunitiesto explore art in communities throughoutDeep South Texas. But one community leadsthe way in encouraging art appreciation in aunique setting. The McAllen Art Walk – heldfrom 6-10 p.m. the first Friday of the monthfrom September to May – is just one of manyoutdoor, evening activities available toresidents and visitors alike.

“Part of its charm is that it’s held in old-worldMcAllen and everything is close,” said BeckyGuerra, owner of Nuevo Santander Galleryand one of the founders of Art Walk. “We dothese to increase the exposure of what isavailable in the art world here in McAllen.What is most gratifying is when teachersbring their students.”

Notable for throngs of art lovers and dozensof participating galleries, the popularity of

the McAllen's Art Walk competes with thefinest events of its kind. Thousands gather indowntown McAllen to see what's new atlocal galleries, mingle with artists, shop forart, crafts or jewelry and enjoy outdoorconcerts and street performers. Art Walk is afree, safe, family friendly event that is heldalong Main Street, from Archer Park toPecan Street.

Art is not the only opportunity to enjoy anevening under the stars in Deep South Texas.The mild climate allows for outdoor eventsyear-round. From Blues on the Hill inHarlingen to Border Fest in Hidalgo, there issomething for everyone.

Benjamin Franklin said wine is constantproof that God loves us and loves to see ushappy. Today, wine lovers find anoutstanding selection to savor along withgourmet food at The Santa Fe Wine Classic.Held annually in October at the historic andbeautiful Quinta Mazatlan in McAllen, theSanta Fe Wine Classic is a top-notch outdoorwine event that features hundreds of winesfrom around the world. Benefiting ascholarship fund for college-bound highschool students, the Santa Fe Wine Classicalso features food from the region's mostrespected restaurants in a noteworthyevening of fine food and drink. Further information is available atwww.santafewineclassic.com or (956) 630-2331.

Harlingen's Blues on the Hill features topblues performers from around the country.It's held once a month in May, August andOctober at Harlingen's McKelvey Park (1325S. 77 Sunshine Strip). This free music festival,usually held on a Saturday evening, takesplace at the base of a grassy hill, so bringlawn chairs and blankets. Bring a picnic orpurchase food and beverages on site. Pastperformers include Preston Shannon a.k.a.“The King of Beale Street,” Baby Atlas anddozens of other solid blues acts. Visitwww.bluesonthehillharlingen.com forschedules and updates, and also tune intopublic radio 88.1 (upper Valley) and 88.9(lower Valley).

The Valley is home to world-class festivals.Charro Days is the region's oldest event.Spanning two weeks of parades, concerts,dances and more each February, CharroDays is a bi-national festival that celebratescultural ties between Brownsville andMatamoros. Make sure to check out theGrito contest, pitting men and women in achallenge to determine whose vocal chordsare most worthy of the prize. Also look for thejalapeno-eating contest, a culinary challenge,and stick around for the evening outdoordances celebrating regional and popular livemusic. Visit www.charrodaysfiesta.com fordetails or call (956) 542-4245.

McAllen's Palm Fest is a newcomer to theoutdoor festival scene, but it's partnered


with another festival with deep historic roots:the original Fajita Cookoff. Together, thesetwo attractions have built the most attendedfestival the region has to offer, attractingsome 40,000 people for the two-day eventheld in October. In addition to the cookingcontest, this festival is filled with music,children's attractions and much more. Visitwww.palmfest.com or call (956) 682-5566 fordetails.

The Texas Cook 'Em is Edinburg's monstercook-off that brings competitors from aroundthe country to vie for thousands of dollars inprize money in rib, brisket, chicken and otherbarbecue categories. Held on the 4th of Julyweekend, the Texas Cook 'Em is a truecelebration, also bringing well-known popand Tejano musicians to perform and endingthe evening with a fireworks display. Moreinformation is available online atwww.edinburg.com/cookem.html.

Speaking of fireworks, South Padre Islandhosts a fireworks display on the bay-sideevery Friday night at 9:15 p.m. from MemorialDay to Labor Day. So, find a seat at yourfavorite outdoor party deck, a spot on yourboat or park along roadsides and parking lotsin the family vehicle and take in this freeevent that lights up the Island's night sky.

Celebrate New Year's Eve outdoors indowntown McAllen without fear of freezing!The city's New Year’s Eve extravaganza onthe popular 17th Street entertainment districtfeatures an outdoor concert, confetti,midnight cannons, a laser light show and agiant ball dropping down as revelers countdown the New Year. Learn more atwww.exploremcallen.com.

Perhaps the most culturally relevant festivalthe RGV has to offer is San Benito's NarcisoMartinez Conjunto Festival, celebrating a

musical style that historians say was born inSan Benito itself. A bajo sexto, acousticguitar and accordion is all a conjuntorequires, though most bands also featurepercussion instruments. Born bygroundbreakers like Narciso Martinez andValerio Longoria, conjunto lives on in thesounds of classic acts like Mingo Saldivar,Eva Ybarra and more. It's a special eventheld in October with a modest entry fee.Details are available online atwww.cityofsanbenito.com.

Add Hidalgo's Border Fest and smaller,quaint evening street festivals like Edinburg'sJardin Del Arte and Alfresco Weslaco,Summer Arts Phestival in downtown Pharr orthe Texas Citrus Fiesta in Mission and you'releft with a full schedule of outdoor events inthe Rio Grande Valley. Contact the RGVPartnership or any Chamber of Commerce fordetails on events held in each city.


Theatres Offer National Productions and Locally Produced Plays

Fans of live theatre will enjoyrevivals, comedy, drama and original plays offered throughout the region.

The Arts Center in Brownsville is a modernfacility offering a diverse season of classicalmusic, jazz, world music, dance, familyprogramming and theatrical offerings.Touring companies have brought outstandingperformances of “All Shook Up,” and“Fiddler on the Roof” is one of the upcoming

offerings. For details seewww.facebook.com/UTBTSCArtsCenter orcall (956) 882-8587.

Enjoy a performance by the talented actorsat the Harlingen Performing Arts Theatre.Since the 1970s, the theatre company hashosted productions of favorites like “Arsenicand Old Lace,” “Annie Get Your Gun,” “TheKing and I,” “My Fair Lady,” “West SideStory,” “Grease” and “The Odd Couple.”Learn more at (956) 412-7529 orwww.hpatonline.net.

The Pharr Literacy Center offers a smalltheatre with outstanding performances bylocal actors. Past performances haveincluded “Tales of the Hidalgo Pumphouse”

and “Pat and Lyndon.” Further details areavailable at www.pharrliteracycenter.org or(956) 783-7746.

The University of Texas-Pan American AlbertL. Jeffers Theater in Edinburg producesclassic plays like the Greek tragedy “TheBirds” to modern sketches. For moreinformation, call (956) 665-3581 or visitwww.UTPA.edu.

South Texas College offers entertainingproductions at its Cooper Center forCommunication Arts located at 3201 W.Pecan Blvd. in McAllen. Steven Dietz’s“Dracula,” Neil Simon’s “Rumors” and otherclassic productions are typical fare. Call(956) 872-2639 for info.

Theatre


A Tasty Revolution is Spreading Across the Valley

Afood revolution is on the rise inthe Rio Grande Valley as moreand more cities host farmers'markets featuring locally grownproduce, ranch meats, farm

eggs, honey and other items. The food available at these outdoor markets is asvaried as its growers.

Barefoot, tending immaculate rows ofsquash, cucumber, tomatoes and fieldgreens, Susanne French seems a fraction of her age. The food she grows with herhusband, Bud, at Acacia Farms nearBayview surpasses governmentspecifications for organic products. Besidestheir sun-up to sun-down weed pulling,planting, watering and harvesting, the coupletend a compost pile that's treated with asmuch care as their crops. The couple mixesorganic molasses and other organicadditives into a towering heap of decayedplants and organic matter to maximize thenutrients that will soon fertilize their gardens.

Though most local growers that sell atfarmers' markets don't use chemicals orpesticides, Acacia Farms takes the extrastep to create homegrown, organicallyproduced compost, a technique that wascentral to the farms that created the organicmovement decades ago.

In the last few years, the U.S.D.A. hasrelaxed requirements for farms to receiveorganic certification, so chemicals andpesticides can be used by farms and stillreceive "organic" certification. But some, likeAcacia Farms, are carrying the torch ofcommitment and dedication to people andthe environment that was the originalcatalyst for the organic farming movement bynot lowering their standards. In addition tocontinuing to grow true organic crops,Acacia Farms also donates some of theircrops to organizations that feed the hungry.

French, who has a degree in organicchemistry, spent 15 years running a plantnursery prior to starting the farm. Acacia

Farms is one of the larger farms featured atValley farmers' markets. Others simply shareharvests from their own gardens. Still, othervendors offer homemade crafts, jewelry,clothing, soap, bath salts and more.

Ruth Wagner does both. A retired teacherand community activist, Ruth sells fruit, herbs and vegetables grown in her WestBrownsville garden, along with aprons, oven mitts and other kitchen apparel.

The first farmers' markets four years agowere launched by university programs toencourage access to fresh fruits and veggiesin unhealthy areas, while promoting small-scale, pesticide-free farming. Thousands ofvouchers that could be redeemed forfarmers' market food in zones with high ratesof diabetes and heart disease weredistributed. The fresh-food-for-vouchersprogram was meant to encourage healthyeating, but with such high-quality food to befound, others soon discovered the markets –from home cooks to chefs looking for thebest-tasting products. Amid the rise offarmers' markets, the Texas Food Revolutionwas born, a team of volunteer chefs andhome cooks who promote the benefits oflocal produce through public demonstrationsand cooking lessons.

Introducing simple recipes using localingredients is central to the Texas FoodRevolution's approach. Without them,shoppers might be intimidated by food withwhich they are unfamiliar. Some of therecipes used in demonstrations includewinter melon, luffa squash (also known asChinese okra or silk squash), cactus andother unique market offerings as mainingredients.

Some of the featured recipe demonstrationshave included grapefruit pies, omelets,carrot-top pesto and South Texas Calzones(featuring ranch sausage, local cheese and awheat tortilla produced in Weslaco).

"Our recipes happen instinctively because itmakes sense to use local, fresher ingredientsrather than those that have to be transportedhere," said Joe Boswell, a Captain with theTexas Food Revolution and outreach directorfor the Rio Bravo Wildlife Institute. "This isabout simple food; real food."


Members of the Texas Food Revolution arecalled “Captain” to illustrate that each is incharge of his or her own voyage in the realmof promoting local food.

Although not a chef, Boswell introduced anall-vegetable sushi roll at the BrownsvilleFarmers’ Market two years ago. Since then,the Texas Food Revolution has sampled outmore than 300 vegetable sushi rolls atfarmers' markets, public events, home dinnerparties and more.

"The recipe varies but can include anyvegetable that you can find at a farmers'market and eat raw, as well as the localcheese, honey, jams, nuts and other marketingredients," said Boswell. “Roll them up in aseaweed wrapper and dip them in soy sauceand you've got a super delicious treat thatalso supports the small farm economy.”

By purchasing local food from localpesticide-free growers, shoppers can helpreduce carbon emissions into theenvironment, reduce chemical runoff fromfarms and support a local farm and rancheconomy, noted Captain J.R. Garza, a localfood critic who has written for variousindependent newspapers and blogs.

"The Texas Food Revolution is like arenegade economic developmentcorporation that’s dedicated to the aspect of

local food production, “ said Garza. “Mainly,though, we are concerned with reducingpesticides in our food and reducing thedistance that food travels from the farm toyour fork.”

That the small farm industry has benefitedfrom the Texas Food Revolution is clear. TheFarmers’ Market at Weslaco, for example,started with two core farms that producedthe majority of the market's food. Now thereare more than five farms featured, withseveral other small farms selling during theirharvest time.

Bertha Alaniz is one of the farmers whoseprofitability has improved by selling her foodat farmers’ markets. She credits herparticipation with a reduction in chemicalsand pesticide used at her Rio Hondo farm.

She and her husband, Pedro, tend tohundreds of acres, growing cabbage, onionsand other large-scale crops year-round forcommercial distribution. In the past, theyused traditional chemical farmingtechniques. But since the couple beganselling food at farmers’ markets more thanthree years ago, they’ve reduced pesticideuse in their industrial production and havereserved several acres for pesticide-freefarming, where they grow food specifically tosell at farmers’ markets.

“We understand that farmers’ marketshoppers want to avoid pesticides andchemicals in their food,” said Alaniz, inSpanish. “So we’re changing how we growfood so that shoppers will have confidence inour product.”


Local Dining with a Twist

From the exotic to locally growingredients, here is a sampling ofsome local culinary experiencesand restaurants.

Mariscos De La Rosa is a quaint dinerspecializing in Gulf seafood. Located onSouth Padre Island, Mariscos De La Rosa iscertainly a throwback in terms of localrestaurants, offering authentic versions ofVera Cruz seafood. You won’t find Frenchfries on a plate of seafood here, but you willfind fresh, affordable and authentic offeringslike the Salpicon, a crab dish cooked intomato and chili. The seafood soup loadsoctopus, fish, shrimp and other seafood in aspicy red broth. Just a few hundred yardsfrom the Gulf Coast, Mariscos De La Rosa isa must for anyonelooking for a workingman’s sanctuary forfresh local food. Call(956) 550-0024.

In walking distancefrom the HidalgoCounty Courthouse,Al Fresco’s DeliExpress offers fresh,inventive dishes. Apopular lunch spot,Al Fresco’s menu issimple, but withenough variety foranyone’s taste. Themenu features itemsthat incorporatelocal ingredients,from a chicken saladsandwich with a sideof dirty rice to grilledfish tacos drizzledwith homemadecilantro ranchdressing. Call (956) 414-6211.

The owners of“house. wine. &bistro,” in McAllensay their ingredientsof choice are alwaysfresh, local andorganic. Some of thelocal offerings on themenu include ranch

beef, cheese, honey, salads and vegetables.They also offer 130 wines that may bepurchased by the glass, bottle or case. TheBee Sting flatbread features a spicymarinara, Genoa salami, fresh mozzarellamade in-house and bell pepper finished witha drizzle of locally harvested honey.Proprietors Larry and Jessica Delgadoearned their culinary chops while working inthe food service industry in Austin. Call (956) 994-8331 or visitwww.housewinemcallen.com.

For exotic fare like blackened Buffalo roast,alligator tail sausage and Axis deer chili, visitRio Grande City’s Wild Game Dinner, ascholarship fundraiser that's been held inFebruary for 14 years. Set in a rustic barn

that's flanked by vaqueros cooking up disheswith a history as big as Texas itself, thistribute to the region’s hunting and ranchculture offers a straightforward introductionto enjoying local food. Call localbusinessman Billy Canales at (956) 487-2596for details on next year’s event.

The Ronald McDonald House Wild GameDinner is a yearly benefit in Harlingen that isalso held in February. Call (956) 412-7200 formore information.

These provide just a taste for what the areahas to offer, but no matter what city you findyourself around mealtime, there is plenty ofgood, locally owned eateries to cater towhatever you feel like having that day.


Education Pipeline ProducesQuality Results

Cooperation between privateenterprise, educators at all levelsand government agencies equalspositive outcomes.

“Adoption and implementation of the AchieveTexas program to increase career awarenessamong middle school students, develop theirindividualized educational plans as theyenter high school and strengthen curriculumthat allows students to attain career goalsare assets for the region and the state,” saidPat Hobbs, executive director of WorkforceSolutions Cameron (WSC).

“Achieve Texas should produce a better-prepared student body for enrollment inpost-secondary programs, place a morehighly trained workforce in the economicpipeline, decrease dropout rates and improvethe quality of life for a larger segment of theValley population,” he explained.

Cameron, Hidalgo, Starr and Willacy countiesfeature two institutions in the University ofTexas System with the University of Texas-Pan American (UTPA) in Edinburg and theUniversity of Texas at Brownsville (UTB).Each provides research capabilities and anarray of bachelors, masters and doctoraldegrees. Texas State Technical College(TSTC) in Harlingen delivers more than 30programs related to technical careers and anAcademic Transfer Core Curriculum.

Community colleges with Texas SouthmostCollege in Brownsville (TSC) and South TexasCollege based in McAllen (STC) send manystudents into the workforce or send themonward to four-year universities. In additionto its two-year degree programs, STC alsooffers a Bachelor of Applied Technologydegree in four fields. Both UTPA and STC areranked among the five least expensivecolleges in the U.S.

“The two-year colleges offer rapid responseprograms funded by state grants forcustomized short-term and long-termbusiness and industry needs,” said Hobbs.

“This capability, coupled with a large,youthful workforce, is a definite attraction tosite selection for companies assessing theability of the region to supply its workforceneeds for new and expanding industries or toupgrade the skills of existing employees,”continued Hobbs. “All these educationinstitutions partner with Workforce SolutionsHidalgo, Starr and Willacy counties andWorkforce Solutions Cameron to assistbusinesses recruit, assess, train, hire andsupport their workforce.”

Jack Damron, executive director of theRegion One Education Service Center basedin Edinburg, which cooperates with 37 schooldistricts and nine charter schools in a seven-county area with more than 407,000 studentsin pre-kindergarten through high school, saidthat communities are achieving higher testscores thanks to tying more science,technology, engineering and mathematics(STEM) elements into to courses.

“Career advancement efforts by Region One,schools, colleges and universities promotehigher education, and those efforts lead toeducation becoming a more prominent factorin economic growth,” said Damron.

For example, high school graduation rates forRegion One increased 2 percent in each ofthe past four years.

Hobbs noted that business and industryleaders from across the Rio Grande Valleyinvest their time, expertise and resources todevelop highly educated and skilledemployees as demonstrated by the largenumber of professionals that serve onrelated community boards and advisorycouncils. Lower Rio Workforce Solutions andWSC provide federal training dollars in in-demand occupations, intensive trainingservices, workplace readiness and supportservices like child care and transportationexpenses to qualified job seekers.

Hobbs cited testimony provided by TWCChairman Tom Pauken to the U.S. House ofRepresentatives Economic and SmallBusiness Development Committee onJanuary 26, 2012. According to a TWC pressrelease, Pauken recommended reform of theeducation system to place a greateremphasis on technical and vocationaltraining in secondary schools.

Hobbs pointed to U.S. Department of Laborstatistics that show at least 60 percent ofpositions in the job market will requireemployees with technical skills instead ofuniversity graduates. As a result, businessesand industries expect colleges anduniversities to restructure training programsand offer more intense and less expensivediploma options.

The North American AdvancedManufacturing Research and EducationInitiative (NAAMREI) has put the regionahead of the curve. “This organization bringstogether diverse education partners tocreate a world-class talent workforce,” saidRaudel Garza, executive director of Rio SouthTexas Economic Development Council.

More information on NAAMREI is availableon its website: www.naamrei.org.

Education


Business is booming in the area asa result of soaring traffic in fruitsand vegetables from Mexico, anincreasingly sophisticated producepowerhouse that exports more

fruits and vegetables to the U.S. than anyother country.

“There are a lot of companies coming everyweek to the area,” said Joaquin Spamer,president of Colimar International Logistics, aMission company that is expanding itscooling space to accommodate theincreased amount of produce coming acrossthe border. “I think this is just the beginning.”

Mexico exported $6.4 billion worth of fresh orfrozen fruits and vegetables into the U.S. lastyear, according to the Department ofAgriculture. That was about 46 percent of allthe fruits and vegetables exported to the U.S.and more than three times the amount

shipped from the nation's second-leadingfruit and vegetable source, Canada. TheUSDA figures the total value of fresh fruit andvegetable exports from Mexico grew slightlyin the first five months of 2012 compared tothe same period in 2010.

“Those people put a lot of food on our tablein this country,” said Pharr Mayor LeoPalacios, Jr., who hopes to see the Pharrbridge keep expanding. “I never thought itwas going to grow this big.”

More Texas producers, too, are growing theircrops in Mexico to be able to feed avoracious year-round market for fruits andvegetables in the U.S.

“Mexico can produce when the U.S.cannot,” said Curtis DeBerry, president ofProgreso Produce, a Boerne company thatexpanded production into Tampico, Mexico,

almost 30 years ago and now grows 60 to 70percent of its fruits and vegetables in severalMexican states.

“Consumers want the freshest produce theycan get year-round. It's supposed to be thereevery day of the year,” said DeBerry.

While Arizona's ports have been the leadingentryways for Mexican produce in the past,Texas' string of border crossings has claimedthe top spot, according to the Texas ProduceAssociation and the USDA. USDA datathrough June 2011 showed thatapproximately 3.8 billion pounds of producemoved through Texas ports from Mexico,about 170 million pounds more than Arizona,which previously held the top spot.

High diesel costs are forcing shippers to bemore efficient, and a soon-to-be completedMexican highway across the treacherous

Transportation is Driving Business


Sierra Madre Mountains between Mazatlánand Durango will make it easier for Mexicanproduce to move east out of lush growingregions on Mexico's west coast. Bothfactors could drive more traffic throughTexas, officials said.

“If you ship produce from Mexico and wantto go to Chicago or the East Coast, you cansave $1,000 to $2,000 in diesel costs bycoming through Texas,” said John McClung,Texas Produce Association president. “It'sbecome easier and cheaper to come toTexas.”

The new highway, which is scheduled forcompletion next year, could bring twice asmuch produce to Texas ports, said Colimar'sSpamer.

“It's a matter of logistics and money saved,”he said. “It's going to change things quite abit.”

The Port of Brownsville also facilitatesinternational movement of goods betweenMexico and the United States, saysspokesman Manuel Ortiz.

“You can move a ton of cargo further, safer,environmentally more friendly, cheaper, onone gallon of diesel than any other form oftransportation," said Ortiz.

More than 95 percent of the fuel used in thelower Rio Grande Valley comes through here,as does the steel used in the production ofhome appliances, like refrigerators andwashers and dryers, he added.

The port recently announced that Gulf CoastLNG Export had signed a lease for whatcould be the nation's largest export terminalfor liquefied natural gas. The agreementcame on the heels of a $150 million contractfor Keppel AmFELS, a key tenant at the port,to refurbish a Diamond Offshore Drilling Inc.deep-sea drilling rig.

Guillermo Nunez, executive director of anassociation representing importers ofMexican agricultural products into Texas,said hundreds of jobs should be added astransportation companies, cold storageproviders and customs brokers expand tohandle the new traffic.

Based in Edinburg, Mike's Loading Service is

the largest locally owned trucking broker.Company officials say business has been onthe rise for more than a year.

"Since we do a lot of general freight thatneeds to move — the staples for thesupermarket and other basic goods — weweren’t affected by the recession as muchas some other companies,” said GeneralManager David Rowland.

Total freight sales were up 88 percent inJanuary and February in a year-over-yearcomparison, continuing a trend that has seena gradual, tiered increase in sales. Thepositive trends reflect the stronger footingseen nationally for trucking companies asthe tonnage shipped has now risen for 13consecutive months. That strength bodeswell for the entire economy becausetransportation is an indicator of how otherkey industries are fairing since trucks carrygoods to a wide range of markets, suppliersand manufacturers. Company officials saidmost of the growth is in retail, with localproduce distributors reporting a significantjump in their shipments as the Valley gains agreater share of Mexican produce that usedto route through Arizona.


Cascade Engineering MakesHuge Investment in Openingof New Plant in Brownsville

Acutting-edge company with acommitment to sustainability hasbrought hundreds of jobs toBrownsville. CK Technologies, abranch of Cascade Engineering,

makes plastic-injected molded parts for largetrucks and busses.

Cascade Engineering has a reputation forinnovation and forward-thinking businessapproaches that are good for people, goodfor the environment and good for Americanbusiness. They reject approaches tobusiness that demand immediate profit, butinstead embrace long-term investments thatcorrespond with their values and that haveprofit potential.

“It all stems from a philosophy of doingbusiness with a social and ecologicalresponsibility,” said Fred Keller, founder andCEO of the West Michigan plasticsmanufacturer. "I don't like the concept ofgiving back. Why did you take it in the firstplace...start with something that's good, andthen make it good business."

Cascade Engineering has become famous fornumerous groundbreaking innovations,including using recycled plastics inmanufacturing, promoting business plansthat are tied to bio-diversity and developing awater filtration system used in Third Worldcountries.

"A lot of the problems around the world areassociated with not having safe water. Morethan three million people die every yearbecause of a lack of access to fresh water,"explained Christina Keller, daughter of FredKeller and spokesperson for the BioSandwater filter.

Recognizing the world's need for freshwater, Cascade Engineering developed theBioSand water filter, as well as a businessmodel that benefits the communities the filteris designed to serve. It is that approach thathas made Cascade Engineering and itsdozens of subsidiaries an attractive model

for a new style of business, earning awardslike Chrysler's Technology Role ModelAward, the White House's Ron Brown Awardfor Corporate Leadership and many more.

The Brownsville plant – located at the formersite of Titan Tire Corporation, which closed in2011 – is a major addition to Cascade'spresence in the automotive and truckmolding field, in a facility that both renewsthe local economy and provides enoughspace for future growth.

Starting in 1973 as a plastic injection molderwith a handful of employees, CascadeEngineering has blossomed into a diversifiedmanufacturer that employs more than 1,000workers in more than a dozen branches ofmanufacturing of trash containers, furnitureparts, auto parts, wind turbines, solar panelsand the BioSand water filter.

CK Technologies specializes in creatingsingle-unit plastic moldings that replacecomplex automotive parts. The Brownsvilleplant is currently producing bumpers forlarge trucks. The company's move toBrownsville fits into the BrownsvilleEconomic Development Council's over-arching plan to attract companies in the autoindustry.

"You don't necessarily need a carmanufacturer in your city to be a major

player in the economy of automotivemanufacturing," said Gilbert Salinas, vicepresident of the Brownsville EconomicDevelopment Council. "For years we've beenpositioning businesses that have a role in theautomotive industry, and that need astrategic location.”

With more than 100 direct jobs created bythe plant, and hundreds more supportedindirectly from CK's presence, the company'smove to Brownsville heralds only bigger andbetter things for the city's role in theautomotive industry.

Proximity to Mexico's automotive industry, aport of entry, international railway andmotivated workforce proved the decidingfactors that helped this sought aftercompany with a conscience secure its futureon the border by the sea.

Industry


Wind Energy

Towering turbines and blades toharvest the wind for electricity topower South Texas along acorridor east of U.S. Highway 77through Willacy County will be

within easy view of motorists by the end of 2012.

Construction of wind energy farms areconcentrated approximately five miles eastof Raymondville toward San Perlita and fivemiles east of Sebastian at the intersection ofFarm-to-Market (FM) Road 1081 and FM 507is underway. The sites feature portablebuildings, trucks, earth moving equipmentand some cables. Access roads across fieldsare being built for crews to reach the turbinesites and underground power lines will carrythe electricity from the towers to existingutility lines.

Duke Energy began construction of 171 windturbines in early 2012 to produce 400 megawattsof electricity. Equipment and materials arrivedat a site near the intersection of Farm-to-Market Road 507 and FM 1081, approximatelyfive or six miles east of Sebastian, late in2011. The farm should include 84 Mitsubishi2.4 megawatt turbines and 87 Siemens 2.7-

megawatt turbines when complete.E.ON Climate & Renewables of Austin brokeground about five miles east of Raymondvillealong Texas Highway 186 between

Raymondville and San Perlita in November2011 for 112 Vestas V100 1.8 megawatt windturbines scheduled for installation by the endof 2012. The turbine towers will be 263 feet

high with 328-footdiameter blades. Thetotal height from towerbase to blade tip will be alittle more than 426 feet.

Texas State TechnicalCollege (TSTC) Harlingenopened its Wind EnergyTechnology (WET)Program in 2010 to trainentry-level techniciansfor the industry’sworkforce along withTSTC West Texas, and agrant from the Governor’sOffice allowed TSTCHarlingen and Del MarCollege of Corpus Christito welcome students toWET courses at theRenewable EnergyEducation Center inIngleside during August 2011.

The positives for windenergy include additional

In Harlingen, dozens of flat-bed rail cars are loaded with Vestas wind energy turbine park awaitingassembly in South Texas.


jobs for the transportationindustry, construction andassembly phases,business management andmaintenance of theturbine units.

“Duke Energy expects 300employees to work on theLos Vientos WindpowerProject,” said Milton R.Howard, the company’svice president for winddevelopment based inHouston.

Ninety people worked atthe site by mid-February2012 and eventually 15positions will be long-termjobs. The wind farm willinject more than $200million into the localeconomy during itslifespan.

Russell Smith, executive director of theTexas Renewable Energy IndustriesAssociation (TREIA), said that wind poweracross Texas probably will expand, but therewill be limits. “Land prices and government-funded incentives, such as tax credits forenergy companies, will affect how frequentlytravelers see the wind towers betweenCorpus Christi and Laredo,” he said.“Without those two things, the wind energyindustry could slow to a crawl in SouthTexas.”

Gulf wind could benefit consumers byhelping avoid brown-outs or black-outsbecause the wind speeds often rise in theafternoons at about the same time electricdemand peaks, Howard and Smith agreed.

“It takes time to research the best possiblewind farm sites because strong, steadybreezes from the Gulf of Mexico do not comefar inland at some points, and there’sextensive research and precautions toprotect migratory birds,” explained Smith.

Radar detection of flocks and low-hangingclouds that block birds’ vision couldautomatically shut down a wind farm systemto temporarily curtail electric production.

Howard said that Duke Energy wants topursue more wind power projects in SouthTexas, but the initial development phasesrequire long-term agreements between thepower purchaser, municipalities, electriccooperatives and large businesses.

“We believe the growth of windpower will be gradual as thedemand for electricity increasesand the economy strengthens,”he said. “With each additionalrenewable energy investment, Ithink the area increases itsprospects for attracting newbusinesses to the area.”

Smith said that leases for off-shore wind energy and in-depthanalysis are under way. Hepredicted ports at Corpus Christiand Brownsville will receive alarge influx of off-shore materialswithin the next two to four years.Most land-based wind energyequipment for Southwest andMidwest states already arrivesthrough Corpus Christi.


UtilitiesElectricityIn order to promote competition and reasonable costs,the State of Texas has allowed residents to decide whothey want as their electricity provider since 2002. Thederegulation and increased competition has drivendown costs of electricity in the area. Residents of theRio Grande Valley can now choose between over 30different retail electricity providers by visitingwww.powertochoose.org.

Water and Waste Water Providers In the Rio Grande Valley, all major cities have their ownwater treatment and waste water treatment plants.Rates vary by entity based on residential orcommercial use and the amount of gallons consumed.The availability of various providers in the regionserves to keep costs low and promote excellence inservice. For more information, please call the individualcity you are interested in.

Information provided by Rio South Texas EconomicCouncil.

http://www.aeptexas.com/

http://www.vtx1.net/


From Wellness and SpecialtyClinics to Top Hospitals andTrauma Care

Whether you are looking for aprimary care physician orneed acute care, the RioGrande Valley is home totop-quality healthcare

options. Local healthcare initiatives, plus theefforts of higher education, have increasedthe availability of quality healthcare to theRio Grande Valley. The area offers more thana dozen full-service hospitals, imagingcenters, two mental health hospitals, achildren's hospital, wellness centers, cancertreatment centers, rehabilitation treatmentand a Veteran's Administration clinic. Areahospitals have been recognized in variouscategories, including Thomson Reuters’ listof the Top Hospitals in the Nation, HealthGrades’ Excellence Awards for OutstandingPerformance and the American HeartAssociation's Triple Crown Award fortreatment of heart disease and stroke.

The University of Texas established thearea's first teaching and research facility inthe Rio Grande Valley in the late 1990s. The

Regional Academic Health Center (RAHC)has three divisions – the Medical EducationDivision in Harlingen and McAllen, theMedical Research Division in Edinburg andthe Public Health Division in Brownsville. TheUniversity of Texas Health Science Center atSan Antonio (UTHSCSA) oversees andoperates the Medical Education and MedicalResearch divisions. The Public HealthDivision is a branch of the University of TexasHealth Science Center at Houston's Schoolof Public Health. The Harlingen facilityopened in 2007 and houses the educationalprograms and support for third-year andfourth-year UTHSCSA medical students, aswell as the UTHSCSA residency in InternalMedicine, under the sponsorship of ValleyBaptist Medical Center.

Under the Texas Department of State HealthServices, Rio Grande State Center/SouthTexas Health Care System (RGSC) is the onlypublic provider south of San Antonio offeringhealthcare, inpatient mental health servicesand long-term mental retardation services.The psychiatric hospital is a 55-bed, inpatientfacility that is certified by the Centers forMedicaid and Medicare Services.Accredited by the Joint Commission, RGSCoffers treatment to people who requireemergency/crisis hospitalization for theirmental illness. It also operates a long-term

program in a 75-bed residential facility foradults diagnosed with mental retardation. Inaddition to the two hospitals, the RGSCoperates an outpatient healthcare clinicspecializing in primary care, women’s health,diabetes and endocrinology, diagnostic andsocial services.

Health in the Valley

http://www.drcarreondds.com/


Doctors Hospital at Renaissance (DHR)opened its doors in 1997 as an outpatientsurgical center and has since grown into acomplete acute care facility. Considered oneof the largest physician-owned facilities inthe U.S., the hospital has 506 beds andprovides a full range of medical and surgicalservices. Although the hospital is located in acommunity that Forbes magazine recentlylisted as one of the poorest areas in the U.S.,DHR is consistently ranked as one of the topmedical centers in the country by variousstandards, measures and organizations. Ithas been ranked in the top 20 of ThomsonReuters’ list of the Top Hospitals in theNation for three consecutive years. DHR hasfive freestanding Imaging Centers locatedthroughout the Rio Grande Valley, along witha Wound Care Center at Renaissance, theRehab Center at Renaissance, the Women’sHospital at Renaissance, the Cancer Centerat Renaissance, the Renaissance BehavioralCenter and the Cancer Center atRenaissance at San Benito. A new PediatricMedical Tower has been built providingpediatric oncology and pediatric ICUservices.

Valley Baptist Medical Center in Harlingen isthe primary referral hospital forcomprehensive and sub-specialty care inSouth Texas. Ranked one of the top 100hospitals in the nation – and the only one

south of Houston – for saving lives andreducing complications in heart patients,according to Thomson Healthcare. This 450-bed general hospital and Level III TraumaCenter Provides state-of-the-art medical,surgical, obstetric and pediatric care.

The South Texas Health System includesEdinburg Regional Medical Center, McAllenMedical Center, the Rehabilitation Pavilion,McAllen Medical Center Cancer Institute,McAllen Medical Behavioral Health Center,Rehabilitation Institute of McAllen andMcAllen Heart Hospital. Edinburg Children’sHospital is also a member of the South Texas

Health System. The 107-bed, freestandingpediatric hospital opened adjacent toEdinburg Regional Medical Center in March2006. Edinburg Children’s Hospital features afour-story pediatric tower, a dedicatedpediatric emergency department and state-of-the-art technology. In addition to theSouth Texas Health System's children'shospital, Driscoll Children's Hospital, whichis based in Corpus Christi, operates specialtycenters in Brownsville and McAllen, as wellas a quick-care clinic in McAllen.


Hospitals in the Rio GrandeValley

d Brownsville Doctors Hospital4750 N. Expy, Brownsville, TX(956) 554-2000

d Cornerstone Regional Hospital2302 Cornerstone Blvd., Edinburg, TX(956) 618-4444

d Doctor's Hospital at Renaissance5501 S. McColl Rd., Edinburg, TX(956) 661-7100

d Driscoll Children's Hospital2101 Pease St., Ste 600, Harlingen, TX(956) 412-3355

d Driscoll Children's Hospital5500 N. Expy, Brownsville, TX(956) 698-8605

d Edinburg Children's Hospital1102 W. Trenton Rd., Edinburg, TX(956) 388-6800

d Edinburg Regional Medical Center1102 W. Trenton Rd., Edinburg, TX(956) 388-6000

d Harlingen Medical Center5501 S. Expy 77, Harlingen, TX(956) 365-1000

d Knapp Medical Center1401 E. 8th St., Weslaco, TX(956) 968-8567

d Lifecare Hospital5101 N. Jackson Rd., McAllen, TX(956) 926-7000

d McAllen Heart Hospital1900 S. D St., McAllen, TX(956) 994-2000

d Mission Regional Medical Center900 S Bryan Rd., Mission, TX(956) 323-9000

d Rio Grande Regional Hospital101 E. Ridge Rd., McAllen, TX(956) 632-6000

d Solara Hospital 333 Lorenaly Dr., Brownsville, TX(956) 546-0808

d Solara Hospital508 Victoria Ln., Harlingen, TX(956) 425-9600

d Solara Hospital2655 Cornerstone Blvd., Edinburg, TX(956) 683-1010

d South Texas Rehab Hospital425 E. Alton Gloor Blvd., Brownsville, TX(956) 554-6000

d South Texas Veterans Health Care System2106 Treasure Hills Blvd., Harlingen, TX(956) 366-4500

d Valley Baptist Medical Center1040 W. Jefferson St., Brownsville, TX(956) 698-5400

d Valley Baptist Medical Center2121 Pease St., Harlingen, TX(956) 389-1100

d Valley Regional Medical Center100 E, Alton Gloor Blvd., Ste 100A,Brownsville, TX(956) 350-7000


Directory of Area Chambers of Commerced Alamo Chamber of Commerce

130 S. 8th St.Alamo, TX 78516Phone: 787-2117Fax: 787-1172

d Brownsville Chamber of Commerce1600 University Blvd.Brownsville, TX 78520Phone: 542-4341Fax: 504-3348www.brownsvillechamber.com

d Edinburg Chamber of Commerce602 W. University Dr.Edinburg, TX 78539Phone: 383-4974Fax: 383-6942www.edinburg.com

d Harlingen Area Chamber of Commerce311 E. Tyler St.Harlingen, TX 78550Phone: 423-5440Fax: 425-3870www.harlingen.com

d Hidalgo Chamber of Commerce611 E. ComaHidalgo, TX 78557Phone: 843-2734Fax: 843-2722

d Los Fresnos Area Chamber of Commerce203 N. Arroyo Blvd.Los Fresnos, TX 78566Phone: 233-4488Fax: 233-9740www.losfresnoschamber.com

d McAllen Chamber of Commerce1200 Ash Ave.McAllen, TX 78501Phone: 682-2871Fax: 687-2917www.mcallen.org

d Mercedes Chamber of Commerce320 S. OhioMercedes, TX 78570Phone: 565-2221Fax: 565-2221www.mercedeschamber.com

d Greater Mission Chamber of Commerce202 W. Tom LandryMission, TX 78572Phone: 585-2727Fax: 585-3044www.missionchamber.com

d Pharr Chamber of Commerce308 W. Park Ave.Pharr, TX 78577Phone: 787-1481Fax: 787-7972www.pharrchamber.com

d Port Isabel Chamber of Commerce421 Queen Isabella Blvd.Port Isabel, TX 78578Phone: 943-2262Fax: 943-4001www.portisabel.org

d Port Mansfield Chamber of Commerce101 E. Port Dr.Port Mansfield, TX 78598Phone: 944-2354Fax: 944-2515www.port-mansfield.com

d Raymondville Chamber of Commerce700 FM 3168Raymondville, TX 78580Phone: 689-1864Fax: 689-1863www.raymondvillechamber.com

d San Benito Chamber of Commerce401 N. Sam HoustonSan Benito, TX 78586Phone: 399-5321Fax: 399-5421

d South Padre Island Chamber ofCommerce600 Padre Blvd.South Padre Island, TX 78597Phone: 761-4412Fax: 761-2739www.spichamber.com

d Weslaco Area Chamber of Commerce275 S. KansasWeslaco, TX 78596Phone: 968-2102Fax: 968-6451www.weslaco.com

d Rio Grande Valley Partnership322 S. Missouri Ave.Weslaco, TX 78596Phone: 968-3141Fax: 968-0210www.valleychamber.com

d RGV Hispanic Chamber of Commerce3313 N. McColl Rd.McAllen, TX 78501Phone: 928-0060Fax: 928-0073www.rgvhcc.com


2907 North Central AvenueBrownsville, TX 78526

956-831-2500

www.aguaworkspipe.com

2907 North Central AvenueBrownsville, TX 78526

956-831-2500

www.aguaworkspipe.com

Directory of Area EDCsd Alamo EDC

715 E. Business 83Alamo, TX 78516(956) 787-6622 www.alamoedc.org

d Brownsville EDC301 Mexico St., Ste F-1Brownsville, TX 78520(956) 541-1183www.bedc.com

d Donna EDC307 S. 12th St.Donna, TX 78537(956) 464-6917

d Edinburg EDC602 W. University Dr.Edinburg, TX 78539(956) 383-7124 x105 www.edinburgedc.com

d Harlingen EDC2424 Boxwood St., Ste 125Harlingen, TX 78550(956) 216-5085www.harlingenedc.com

d Hidalgo EDC704 E. Tejano Dr.Hidalgo, TX 78557(956) 843-2286

d La Feria EDC115 E. CommercialLa Feria, TX 78559956-797-2261

d McAllen EDC6401 S. 33rd St.McAllen, TX 78503(956) 682-2875www.medc.org

d Mercedes EDC 417 S. OhioMercedes, TX 78570(956) 565-2230www.investinmercedes.com

d Mission EDC901 Business Park Dr., Ste 200Mission, TX 78572 (956) 585-0040www.missionedc.com

d Pharr EDC118 S. Cage Blvd.Pharr, TX 78577(956) 702-5335www.pharredc.com

d Port Isabel EDC305 E. Maxan St.Port Isabel, TX 78578www.portisabel-texas.com/edc

d Rio Grande City EDC406 E. Main St.Rio Grande City, TX 78582(956) 487-3476 www.rgcedc.org

d Rio South Texas Economic CouncilP.O. Box 4360Edinburg, TX 78540(888) 778-3201www.riosouthtexas.com

d San Benito EDC401 N. Sam HoustonSan Benito, TX 78586(956) 361-3804 x307

d San Juan EDC430 N. StandardSan Juan, TX 78589(956) 783-9957www.sanjuanedc.com

d South Padre Island EDC6801 Padre Blvd.South Padre Island, TX 78597956-243-8416www.southpadreislandedc.com

d Weslaco EDC275 S. KansasWeslaco, TX 78596956-969-0838www.weslacoedc.com

http://www.wfsolutions.org/


Where to stay?

(956) 782-9912www.alamoinnsuites.comHistoric Suites * Bed & Breakfast option

Best Prices On All Birding Binoculars

(956) 782-9912www.alamoinnsuites.comHistoric Suites * Bed & Breakfast option

Best Prices On All Birding Binoculars

Nicknamed the “Land ofTwo Summers,” the cityof Alamo is nestled inthe center of the RioGrande Valley, within

one of the fastest-growingmetropolitan areas in the U.S. Thecommunity, named for formerlandowner Alamo Land & SugarCompany, offers a wonderful qualityof life characterized by a serene,natural environment in closeproximity to some of the region’s topattractions.

Alamo is a part of the forward-thinking growth of the surroundingMcAllen-Mission-Edinburg MSA,welcoming new subdivisions,restaurants, retailers andbusinesses to its mix. Theresidential population here hasincreased from 14,760 in 2000 to18,353 in 2010. Add in more than

20,000 annual Winter Texans andyou have one thriving community.

The area is also a haven forthousands of visitors each year.Known as the “Refuge to theValley,” Alamo serves as thegateway to the adjacent Santa AnaNational Wildlife Refuge, a 2,088-acre gem in the NWR system thatattracts thousands of birdwatchersand nature enthusiasts annually.

While Alamo is a community on thegrow, it still maintains its beautifuloutdoor spaces and tight-knit feetthat continues to draw people fromall over the world looking toexperience a one-of-a-kind lifestylein the heart of the Valley.

Alamo

http://www.alamoinnsuites.com/


A Brief History

Ascant 27 years after ChristopherColumbus made his first voyageto the New World, the firstEuropean arrived in theBrownsville-Matamoros area.

Francisco de Pineda came to these parts in1519 and stayed a brief time. Alonzo de Leonvisited here in 1689 and, in 1746, Jose deEscandon brought several families topopulate settlements already in existencealong what is now called the Rio Grande.

Those early settlers began a trend in buildingand development that has never stoppedand, in fact, continues unabated in 2011-2012.

The Texas Revolution of 1836 and the disputeover the boundary between the fledglingRepublic of Texas and the Republic ofMexico simmered even as Texas joined theU.S. in 1845 and was finally settled by the

War With Mexico. The war began May 8,1846, with the battle of Palo Alto, followed bythe battle of Resaca de la Palma.

It was during this time that Brownsville hadits beginning. U.S. Army Major Jacob Brownwas killed by cannon fire in Fort Texas on theRio Grande and, in his honor, the fort wasrenamed Fort Brown. The settlement thatsprung up around the fort was calledBrownsville; a founding date of 1848 isgenerally accepted for the city.

Incorporated in 1853, Brownsville wasalready the county seat of Cameron County.Its location on the river helped establishBrownsville as a trade center for southernTexas.

Then came secession in 1861. With Texaspart of the Confederate States of America,and as a result of the ensuing naval

Brownsville


blockade, Brownsville’s importancewas further magnified. The “back doorof the Confederacy” and its proximityto the Mexican port of Bagdad madeBrownsville that much more importantto the rebels and their fight against theU.S. Of particular local interest is thefact that the last battle of the Civil Wartook place just east of Brownsville onMay 13, 1865, with rebel Col. Rip Fordbesting the Union forces in that lastfight. Brownville thus claims the firstbattle of the War with Mexico and thelast battle of the Civil War.

After the war, many merchants turnedtheir attention to the developing cattleindustry, which was supported by theChisolm Trail and several big ranchessupplying cattle for drives to railheadsin Kansas.

Steamboats were still a majortransportation provider after the CivilWar, with traffic going as far upriver asCamargo and Roma. In the late 1860s, agroup of Brownsville investors, led bySimon Celaya, built the first SouthTexas railroad from Brownsville toPoint Isabel.

Firsts for Brownsville continued in 1929 with the first PanAmerican flight to Mexico City, piloted by none other than CharlesLindbergh. And In 1936, the port of Brownsville was opened,providing a deep-sea outlet to and from any port in the world.

Today Brownsville is the largest city in the Rio Grande Valley witha population nearing 200,000. It covers more than 192 squaremiles and has more than 400 miles of paved streets. With anassessed valuation of more than $5 billion, the city has nearlyquadrupled its wealth in the past 18 years.

Brownsville stands as one of the most historic cities in the entireState of Texas and is a leader among state cities in historicpreservation and historic tourism.

http://www.valleybaptist.net/

The Port of Brownsville, locatedon the border with Mexico,opened over 75 years ago and is a

major center for intermodaltransportation, industrial development,and is in the business of facilitating thetransportation of cargo worldwide.Ranked as one of the nation’s top in-transit ports, and among the top 3 U.S.ports in the importation and exportationof steel (Journal of Commerce BreakbulkMagazine, April 2010) we are second tonone in terms of facilities, capacity, andcapabilities. With a strong presence inthe Rio Grande Valley and ability tohandle a diverse mix of cargo, its impactcan be felt both regionally and globally.

The Port plays a significant role in themovement of goods throughout theworld and is the expert in the transportof goods between the U.S. and Mexicowhile reducing costs for our customers.The Port of Brownsville is the Granteeand Operator of Foreign Trade Zone No.62 which is one of the largest FTZ’s inthe U.S. (Merchandise in an FTZ isconsidered to be outside the U.S.Customs Territory, merchandise is

subject to duty only when it leaves theFTZ for consumption in the U.S.market). Another cost cutting feature forour customers is the OverweightCorridor which helps manufacturingplants keep costs low. They are able toload trucks at Mexican weight standardsthat are 1.5 times higher than the U.S.standards. This cuts down on thenumber of trips and therefore overallexpenses.

In an ever changing global marketplace,the Port of Brownsville has the flexibilityand capacity to adapt to change andremain competitive. We are a trulymulti-modal Port with the ability tomove cargo via water, rail, truck, and air.We are committed to partnering withour region to enhance our sharedsynergies and enhance the transportationof cargo. Whether its green technology,containers, breakbulk cargo, liquid cargo,or refrigerated cargo, we have thesolution. Visit us at www.portofbrownsville.com

http://www.portofbrownsville.com/


http://www.gpz.org/

http://brownsville.org/

For more information about the Donna-Rio Bravo International Bridge, please contact us:

P: 956-461-4878 • F 956-461-4883www.CityofDonna.org

A CONNECTION to theCenterof the

VALLEY


Edinburg

Edinburg Texas, is a successful,vibrant, family oriented city whereopportunities are boundless. With apopulation of 77,100 residents,Edinburg is the county seat for

Hidalgo County and home to the University ofTexas Pan American and the largest schooldistrict in the Rio Grande Valley.

We’re growing and today we find ourselvesas the hub for international and globalcompanies. Our location is key whenattracting new businesses. Highway 281 isthe main entry point for people traveling inand out of the Valley, making it aconvenience companies are takingadvantage of.

Our airport is another key element thatattracts businesses. We were recentlydesignated a user fee airport by Customs andBorder Protection. This means thatinternational travelers can now fly directly toEdinburg without having to stop in another

city to clear customs. By the end of the year,we will have a 5,000-square-foot facility atour airport that will house a full-timeCustoms Officer to clear internationalpassengers. Already we have Jet AirExpress, which makes several flights daily toand from Mexico. The user fee airportdesignation will bring others.

Edinburg is also known for its commercialactivity and industrial and manufacturingindustries.

Our growth is changing the face of the Citybut not the foundation that it was built on.Edinburg is all about history, culture andfamily, and we’ve built around that heart.

http://www.dhr-rgv.com/

http://www.utpa.edu/


Edinburg Economic Development Corporation (EEDC)The Edinburg Economic Development Corporation (EEDC) plays a key role in assisting

companies to expand, while helping to attract new business and industry to Edinburg.

The EEDC provides the following services:• Site selection assistance• Real estate database of properties

and buildings• Business seminars• Job training assistance• Data Information Center• Coordination of state and local assistance• Access to business start-up resources

In addition, the EEDC can arrange custom tours, schedule meetings with community leaders,

arrange introductions to necessary business contacts, and serve as an advocate with state

and local governmental entities.

602 W. University DriveEdinburg, TX 78539

Ph: 956-383-7124Fax: 956-380-2738

http://www.edinburg.com/


www.edbgcitylimits.com

http://www.edinburg.com/


With the nickname Six-shooter Junction, Harlingenbegan life in 1904 as acrossroads. Since then thecity has blended border

heritage and Texas pride to mature into adestination for travelers (with the region’slargest airport) and the home of over 80,000individuals who cherish the Valley’s sub-tropical beauty and friendliness.

Drawing on the talents and ingenuity of itsresidents, Harlingen city has grown into adynamic and charming city. It is knownabove all for the shopping experiences foundnowhere else, for its medical facilities andmedical education programs, and for aquality of life that draws young adults back

home to raise their families.

Go Shopping – Harlingen offers the region’smost authentic and congenial downtown, aslice of Americana brimming with simplepleasures and unexpected treasures.Jackson Street is filled with boutiques andantique shops owned by engagingpersonalities like June and Tony Ramirez ofAntiques Emporium, Mike Bodenhamer atJava Café and Mary Resendez at SimplyElegant.

The abundance of year-round outdooractivities in the Rio Grande Valley promptedBassPro Shops to open its Harlingen store in2011. Along with BassPro’s huge selection ofbird feeders and boats, fishing rods and

camping gear, visitors encounter aquariums,museum exhibits, wildlife art, educationalpresentations and entertainment all underone roof.

Healthcare – Harlingen is the headquartersof the VA’s South Texas Coastal Bend HealthCare System and the home of the new VAAmbulatory Surgery Center and thecomprehensive Outpatient Clinic. ValleyBaptist Medical Center-Harlingen, theregion’s largest hospital, has evolved since1925 into a 600-bed facility, which ranksamong the nation’s best-practice hospitalsfor stroke, heart failure and coronary diseasetreatment. It is a Certified Stroke Center andLevel III Trauma Center with both pediatricand neonatal intensive care units. VBMC

Harlingen

Continued on page 64

Photo provided by the Harlingen CVB

http://www.flythevalley.com/


operates a Family Practice Residencyprogram that trains new doctors in criticalmedical skills. The nearby Harlingen MedicalCenter, an acute care hospital, has beenrecognized for its cardiovascular care andclinical excellence.

Third- and fourth-year medical students andnewly graduated MDs in the InternalMedicine Residency Program receive hands-on clinical training in Harlingen at theUniversity of Texas’ Regional AcademicHealth Center (RAHC), a campus of UT HealthScience Center-San Antonio. Outstandinglocal physicians serve as faculty for themedical education division of the RAHC,which will be transitioning to a stand-aloneUT medical school in Harlingen over the next10 years.

Coming Home – Soccer complexes and youthball fields, a 27-hole city golf course, hikeand bike trails along the Arroyo Colorado andthe Ramsey Park-World Birding Center arevisible aspects of Harlingen’s enviablequality of life. But what keeps families andbusinesses in Harlingen are the intangiblessuch as trees and skies filled year-roundwith wild parrots and hummingbirds. Thewelcome extended to new and old friends, aswell as an abundance of communityactivities, convince young adults and retireesto make Harlingen their home.

Continued from page 60

Photo provided by the Harlingen CVB

Photo provided by the Harlingen CVB Photo provided by the Harlingen CVB


William R. McKenna, M.D., P.A.Diplomate, American Board of Allergy and Immunology

Clinical Associate Professor, UT Health and Science Center at San Antonio

1713Treasure Hills Blvd., Suite 1-BHarlingen, Texas 78550

Harlingen McAllen956-425-9240 956-687-2111

Brownsville956-541-1561

http://www.valleybaptist.net/

www.hidalgotexas.com

www.hidalgotexas.com

www.co.hidalgo.tx.us

The City of La Feria was incorporated in 1915.

In 1983 La Feria voters approved a city

manager form of government and in 1989 La

Feria became a home rule municipality. The city’s

resources are committed to enhancing the quality

of life of its nearly 8,500 residents. The community

takes pride in maintaining a good quality school district.

After completing a $27 million water and wastewater system improvements project, the

City is starting work on some of the 17 different capital improvement projects totaling

$59 million, of which $54 million is in the form of grants. These projects will improve

the local economy and will offer job opportunities, as well as pave the way for economic

development in areas along Expressway 83 and Business Highway 83. The projects

are anticipated to be completed within the next three years.

Due to its strategic location, the quaint city of La Feria has attracted many private

investors who are interested in land acquisition for commercial development. The City

has taken an aggressive position in developing strategies to attract private investment

and has undertaken the development of a Tax Increment Reinvestment Zone, developed

new market tax credits and established a revolving loan program to offer low interest

loans to new and established businesses. A comprehensive strategic plan was recently

completed and will serve as a blueprint for development for the next 20 years.

Winter Texans are a welcome addition to the city from October to April and to celebrate

their presence, the City of La Feria holds an annual “Fiesta de La Feria” with live music,

arts and crafts, car show, and food booths galore. Some of the other events held during

the year are the Annual Easter Egg Hunt, “Lighting of the Tree” in November and the

Christmas Parade and Winter Festival held the second Saturday in December. Five years

ago, the City began another tradition with the first July 4th Parade to honor all service

men and women. This year a Bar-B-Q Cook Off was added as part of our Independence

Day Celebration. These events continue to grow every year, and we look forward to

continuing these traditions for the betterment and enjoyment of the community. Visit

La Feria, you’ll want to stay. City offices are located at 115 E. Commercial Avenue,

La Feria, Texas 78559; phone: (956) 797-2261; fax: (956) 797-1898;

website: cityoflaferia.com.

-

City of La Feria

http://www.cityoflaferia.com/

http://www.cityoflaferia.com/


McAllen

McAllen has transformed froman agricultural-basedcommunity into one of themost vibrant cities in all ofTexas, full of culture,

entertainment, shopping and opportunitiesfor business expansion and relocation.

Recognized as one of the largestmetropolitan areas in Texas and the U.S.,nearly 130,000 people reside in McAllen,taking pleasure in the city’s quality publicservices, schools, hospitals and award-winning parks. Both residents and visitorsenjoy the city’s rich arts and cultural outlets,shopping and dining establishments andthriving nightlife in its downtown 17th StreetEntertainment District. McAllen also hoststhe Quinta Mazatlan, an urban sanctuary andWorld Birding Center destination.

McAllen is a leading site for businesses, aswell, hosting the 175,000-square-foot, high-tech McAllen Convention Center and amplespace for development. It has been namedthe No. 1 mid-sized city for jobs by Forbes,one of the top markets for job growth byBusinessWeek and was listed among the top25 cities for small business growth by CNNMoney

So whether you’re here to relocate yourfamily, your business or just to explore allthat this South Texas city has to offer,McAllen is truly the place to be.

http://www.statefarm.com/agent/US/TX/McAllen/James-Newman-JD6VD1YS000

www.exploremcallen.com

http://www.mcallenisd.org/

Asmall wooden car speeds down a high school hallway as a cluster of teenagerswatch, intent on gauging the velocity and strength of impact as it slams against a farwall. They run to pick it up and peer at the iPod Touch strapped atop the car to

measure acceleration, angle, and speed. They then use the data to create a graph on anexcel spreadsheet. It’s the beauty of physics and technology, intertwined.

Another cluster of teens watch their iPad screens intently as a doctor in a university researchlab far away gingerly lays a rat’s heart cells onto mesh inside a petri dish. Students marvelas the mesh concoction—a piece of a heart muscle artificially grown—begins to throb.

Students in an English IV classroom listen carefully via Facebook to a live webcast paneldiscussion originating out of Washington, D.C. They are fully engaged, having studied,debated, and formulated their own points of view. A question posed by a student in aMcAllen ISD classroom prompts applause at the nation’s Capital, as well as kudos and aresponse from a White House official. It was face-time interactive online dialogue that gaveMcAllen students access to the White House.

McAllen ISD students are engrossed in a world of incredibly thought-provoking, discussion-igniting learning experiences available at the click of a button. It’s inquiry in the classroom,integrating technology, igniting higher level thinking, and prompting students to delvedeeper into issues at all levels and in all subjects.

All these experiences illustrate the root concept behind McAllen ISD’s TLC3—transforminglearning in the classroom, campus, and community. McAllen ISD may be the largest districtin the nation working to place the latest in mobile technology into the hands of all of itsstudents – from high school seniors down to kindergarten. When a child’s imagination isuntethered by the mechanisms of the past, learning can truly be limitless.

A cutting-edge instructional leader

“TLC3 is a game changer that will revolutionize the way weprepare our students for the 21st century. It’s a move that putsMcAllen ISD front and center as a leader of instructionaltechnology, coupled with student-centered, inquiry-based learning.”

James Ponce, Ed.D.McAllen ISD Superintendent


http://www.valleyorchestra.org/

2011-2012 Rankings

McAllen MSA was rankedas the best housingmarket in the nation.

McAllen MSA was namedthe fastest growing metroarea in the nation.

29% of McAllen’s generalpopulation with a Bachelor’sdegree or higher outperformedstate and national averages of26% & 28% respectively.

McAllen was ranked the #1 mid-market city for the topemerging restaurant markets in the U.S.

McAllen MSA ranked #4 for BestMid-Sized Cities for Jobs.

www.mcallenedc.org


Known as the “Queen of the Valley,”the city of Mercedes ideally sits inthe center of the Rio GrandeValley, within the southeasternportion of Hidalgo County. This

family friendly community provides a lowcost of living, a pro-business attitude and ahighly appealing year-round sub-tropicclimate perfect for outdoor activities.

Mercedes sits within 90 minutes of sixwildlife refuges, including the noteworthySanta Ana National Wildlife Refuge, andclose to destinations suitable for both sportfishing and game hunting. Its location alsooffers a convenient link to the popularMexican port of call city of Progreso, whichis lined with shops, an authentic localmarket, restaurants and world-classbeaches.

The city itself is recognized as the premierretail center of the Valley, featuring theregion’s largest factory outlet mall, the RioGrande Premium Outlets, and a thrivingcentral business district with more than 65diverse businesses. Mercedes also hoststwo exceptional golf courses, a publicplanetarium and one of the state’s top 10largest livestock shows.

The Rio Grande Valley Livestock Show drawswell over 160,000 guests each year during its10-day run in March. The show has been astaple in the community since its inauguralyear in 1939, attracting guests from all overTexas and beyond. Main features includelivestock exhibitions, rodeo competitions,carnival rides, car shows, youth educationprogramming and plenty of food, drinks andlive music.

The advantages to life in this South Texascity are unrivaled, with a quality of life that isperfect for families, employers, visitors andWinter Texans.

Mercedes

Welcome to the center of one of the most

vibrant areas of growth in the United States.

Mercedes, Texas is at the retail heart of the

Rio Grande Valley—a position that speaks

of our commitment to both forward thinking

development and our tradition of welcoming

visitors as part of the family. It’s all part of our

bicultural thinking and way of life.

We have much to learn from the past. And

much to look forward to in the future. If you

spend anytime in Mercedes, Texas, you will

know from our small-town values and big

city planning that we have our sights set on

bringing the best of the world to Mercedes,

as we offer our best to the Rio Grande Valley

and beyond. This is why we say, “It

Starts Here.”

With our low cost of living, family friendly

environment, and tropical weather, you might

just find yourself wishing you could stay a

bit longer in our big, little town. It wouldn’t

be the first time someone came to see the

sights, and decided they wouldn’t mind

becoming part of the community.

Wherever your travels take you, always know

you have a place to stay in Mercedes.

Henry Hinojosa

Mayor, City of Mercedes

MissionMercedes ISD will provide a 21st Century

education for all students in a safe, caring and

supportive environment to develop productive

citizens for an ever-changing world.

VisionAchieve Excellence Today for a SuccessfulTomorrow

Mercedes ISD is a K-12 public school system

serving the students of the Rio Grande Valley.

More than 5,500 students attend one of the

district’s ten schools, which include an early

childhood center, five elementary schools, one

junior high school and three secondary campuses.

The district continues to invest in an assortment of

programs with a vision to “Achieve Excellence

Today for a Successful Tomorrow.” Among the

many unique programs offered through Mercedes

ISD include:

The 21st Century Community LearningCenters (CLC) Program: The focus of this

program, re-authorized under Title IV, Part B, of

the No Child Left Behind Act, is to provide

expanded academic enrichment opportunities for

children attending low-performing schools.

Mercedes ISD Afterschool Centers onEducation: The After School Program is an early

prevention program for high school, jr. high and

elementary students. Students attending the After

School Program receive tutoring, participate in

intramural sports, crafts, fine arts and field trips.

The students also receive supportive guidance,

drug education and positive reinforcement to help

build self-esteem.

Career & Technology Programs: Career

and technology programs are dedicated to

preparing young people to manage the dual roles

of family member and wage earner. Career and

technology programs enable students to gain

entry-level employment in a high-skill, high-wage

job and/or to continue their education.

GEAR UP: The primary goal of GEAR UP

(Gaining Early Awareness & Readiness for

Undergraduate Programs) Bridges to the Future is

to increase the number of students graduating

from high school and entering and succeeding in

post-secondary institutions.

In addition to these unique programs, Mercedes

ISD furnishes students with opportunities to

participate in athletics, band, gifted & talented

courses, English Language Learners instruction

and special education through the Mercedes

Special Education Cooperative.

For more information on Mercedes ISD, contactthe District Office: 206 West 6th Street.

MERCEDES INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT

http://www.misdtx.net/


Mission

Mission, Texas, known as the“Home of the Grapefruit,” sitsin the western portion of theMcAllen metro area and justminutes north of bustling

Reynosa, Tamaulipas, Mexico. Thanks to itsoutdoor attractions, culture and warmweather, Mission is one of the most popularWinter Texan communities, with itspopulation doubling during the influx of part-time residents every winter.

Widely known for its ecotourism and birdingattractions, Mission is home to the WorldBirding Center at the Bentsen-Rio GrandeValley State Park, the NABA InternationalButterfly Park and four golf courses. The cityalso features historical charm through themaintenance of various landmarks and a richculture as experienced through two localtheatres and such events as the TexasButterfly Festival and the Texas Citrus Fiesta.Additionally, more than 50 eateries areavailable, offering diners plenty of optionswhen it comes to dining out.

Mission is truly a great place to visit, live anddo business. It offers highly rated healthcarethrough the Mission RegionalMedical Center, outstandingschools, a diverse faithcommunity and, with theconstruction of the newAnzaldua International Bridge,enhanced opportunities forinternational relations.

The city is fast-growing andserves as an internationalgateway between the U.S. andMexico at Reynosa. Its mix ofold and new comes together tocreate an exclusiveenvironment that continues todraw in new residents andbusinesses.

For more information onMission, visit the City websiteat www.missiontexas.us or theMission EDC website atwww.missionedc.com.

Mission, Texas is the perfect place to

stage a South Texas getaway.

Ideally situated in the heart of the

Rio Grande Valley, Mission is the home to

world class hotels, restaurants, shopping

centers, RV parks, and camping grounds.

Mission offers a variety of recreational

facilities to our visitors including; public parks,

well maintained tennis courts, swimming

pools, and outstanding public and private golf

courses. Boasting 4

premiere golf

courses with over

22,000 yards of

pristine playing

fairways, Mission

is a golf lover’s

paradise.

For those who enjoy

the tranquility of

nature, Mission offers some of the most

spectacular locations for birding and butterfly

watching on Earth! The World Birding Center/

Bentsen-Rio Grande Valley State Park, and

NABA International Butterfly Park have

created a haven for the special species and

invite birders and naturalists to their sites by

offering viewing stations, watching towers,

interpretive centers and various programs.

Mission, Texas is located at the southern tip of

Texas in the Rio Grande Valley just minutes

away from South Padre Island.

http://www.missionchamber.com/

Mission also has a strong cultural heritage,

on display at the Mission Historical

Museum, has made significant contribution

to the world of sports as the hometown of

legendary Coach Tom Landry, among

others, and continues to foster its history at

the historic La Lomita Chapel & the historic

Border Theatre.

We hope you enjoy your stay in

Mission and the South Texas

Tropics of the Rio Grande Valley.

Mission is rich with visitors

opportunities, offering a variety of

outdoor and indoor fun. We invite

you to be part of this rich cultural

and natural treasure that The

Greater Mission Area offers.

OUR MISSION:Your SuccessWe create VALUE and make No ExcusesW W W. M I S S I O N C H A M B E R . C O M202 W. Tom Landry, Mission, Texas 78572Phone 956.585.2727 • Fax 956.585.3044

http://www.missionchamber.com/


Pharr

Welcome to Pharr, Texas, acity rich with bi-culturaldiversity, beauty andhistory. Positioned withinone of the country’s

fastest-growing regions, the City of Pharrpresents numerous advantages for residentsand businesses, as well as plenty of things tosee and do for tourists. The City has earned aspot as one of six America’s CrownCommunities for excellence in localgovernment, and has garnered recognitionas an All-America City and a Texas MainStreet Community. In addition, Pharr is theValley’s first Preserve America City, a federalinitiative that supports community efforts topreserve its cultural and natural heritage.

Pharr, the “First Texas Triple Crown City”, is aculturally diverse city with a key location justminutes from the U.S. – Mexico border andSouth Padre Island. A regional hub fortransportation, the city hosts the PharrInternational Bridge, which supplies acompetitive advantage for Pharr businessesand enhances international tradeopportunities. This exceptional businessenvironment continues to draw in newcompanies looking to relocate or expand inthe Rio Grande Valley. In 2010 Pharr opened

the “First” and only Pappadeaux SeafoodKitchen South of San Antonio, followed bythe grand opening in 2012 of the “First” andonly Costco Wholesale in the South TexasRegion, two one-of-a-kind Rio Grande Valley“Firsts” that are a regional draw for the fast-growing All-America City.

Accompanying the exceptional economicfeatures of Pharr are plenty of outlets forshopping, dining, recreation and culturethroughout the Valley. And if you’re looking tofeel right at home while “Pharr away” fromyour home, we have the best hotels at thebest prices, only a short distance fromairports and major highways. The City is thehome to Tierra Del Sol, a championship andcelebrity preferred golf course, and the PharrEvents Center, where “Pharr Rocks”, hostingthe most concerts and main events in SouthTexas.

Historical Trolley Tours are a unique way tolearn about the city, Pharr Live is a great wayto enjoy the traditional music of our region,and a host of annual events provides awonderful forum for the community to cometogether. Among the most popular events inPharr is the Hub Phestival, celebrating ourvibrant heritage with the “Biggest Outdoor

Street Concert” in the Rio Grande Valley,featuring internationally acclaimed artists,food, rides and the only MargaritaShowdown in South Texas, where you cansample some of the best tasting margaritasin the region. Our Salute to Veterans Parade& Firework Spectacular is the only one of itskind, offering the only fireworks show inSouth Texas in honor of our Veterans.Another “First in Pharr” event, that continuesto grow, is the Mexico Artisan Fair, featuringover 130 artisans from across Mexico, aswell as traditional Mexican food, music anddance.

While Pharr continues to experience much inthe way of growth and development, it hasheld tight to its deep-rooted traditions,offering a friendly, tight-knit community idealfor families, Winter Texans and employers.Pharr is dynamic and prosperous, truly anexciting City to be in, offering a littlesomething for everyone, in a very big way.As Pharr grows and continuous to diversify,we invite you to be “First in Pharr” and joinus. Visit the following websites to learn moreabout all that’s going on in Pharr,www.pharr-tx.gov, www.pharrchamber.com,www.pharrevents.com, or stop by and visitus on your way into the Rio Grande Valley.

The Pharr Chamber of Commerce listensand understands that business-to-businessnetworking is crucial to business growth

and survival. Your business is our priority!We are in the All-America City of Pharr, acity once on the rise that’s now breaking newground and breaking records. With the onlyPappadeaux Seafood Kitchen in the region,the second largest HEB Plus in South Texas,the only Costco south of San Antonio in theentire Rio Grande Valley and having been the“first home” in the Rio Grande Valley to HomeDepot, Lowes and many other big box retailersand restaurants, we’re moving forward, creatingrealistic economic opportunities.

The Pharr Chamber is the original social networkand we pride ourselves in offering opportunities thathelp grow your business. FastConnect is a monthlyFreestyle Network Lunch designed to exceed yourbusiness objectives, to get you closer to achievingyour monthly quotas and end-goals. Don’t base yourchoice solely on Internet leads and outdated contactlists. Chamber members have the opportunity tomeet, connect and exchange ideas one-on-one toultimately foster business relationships, all whilenetworking in a roundtable session within a relaxed,fun environment. We pride ourselves in offeringunique networking opportunities that really work bytaking you back to the basics of “selling yourbusiness.” Business With Pleasure is a monthlyAfter-Hours Social Networking Mixer designed tohelp you unwind while connecting with success atthe end of your hard day’s work, all within acomfortable atmosphere. Breakfast BeforeBusiness is a quarterly new Chamber memberorientation designed to introduce new Chambermembers to Chamber staff, the board of directors,city staff and community associates, and a greatway to start your day by learning something new inthe field of business marketing. And, if you’re

working on polishing your public speaking skills tocontribute to the success of your business, join ourvery own Toastmasters Club, HUB CityToastmasters. All this and so much more isavailable for you at the Pharr Chamber. In today’suncertain economy, we’re keeping you connected,active and involved… now when you need it most.

We can’t stress enough how our efforts continue tohelp businesses succeed, and 2012 marks theonset of the Pharr Chamber’s evolution into aninnovative era, partnering with the Pharr EconomicDevelopment Corporation to consolidate efforts, yetexpand resources and services. The implementationof an all-new business retention and expansionprogram will allow us to get even closer to our localbusiness community, opening our lines ofcommunication beyond Facebook, Twitter and otherlike social networking sites. This allows us to reallyfocus in on business, by sector, by specialty and,more importantly, by specification on the issues thatreally matter to your business.

The Pharr Chamber of Commerce:Back to Basics and Into the New...

In the City of Firsts

RPharr Chamber of Commerce www.pharrchamber.com

1 c HUB City Toastmasters ClubThe HUB City Toastmasters Club meets each Wednesday at Noonat the Pharr Chamber of Commerce. Members practice publicspeaking, evaluation, impromptu speaking and leadership skills.

2 c Winter Texan Travel ExpoThis event is geared for all our “Winter visitors” and offers directaccess to valuable services provided in the City of Pharr and thesurrounding area all under one roof. It gives the “PharrPartners” an opportunity to visit and get information directlyfrom local businesses and vendors and become familiarized withthose services in order to make their stay an enjoyable one.

3 c Trolley ToursTake a ride on the Historical Trolley Tour where you willexperience the rich history of the All-America City of Pharr anddiscover why it is known as the HUB City of the Rio GrandeValley. Not only will you learn about Pharr’s history, but also itsaccomplishments and sites pertaining to key points of interest.

4 c Pharr Riser ProgramThe Pharr Riser Program’s mission is to build interpersonal skills,promote community awareness and partnerships, supportstudents scholastic achievements and help foster a better qualityof life for the future of Pharr through the experiences of thePharr Risers.

5 c Pharr Partners FarewellLuncheon

This appreciation luncheon event provides an opportunity for the Pharr Chamber to thank our “Pharr Partners” (Winter TexanCouncil) for all their stewardship and volunteer effortsthroughout their stay.

6 c Leadership ClassThe Leadership Class develops effective leadership skills andlearns more regarding the history and current community issuesof Pharr, while enhancing their capacity to work for greatercommunication and understanding for improving the quality oflife and desire to be involved in future leadership opportunitiesin Pharr.

7, 8 and 9 c Ribbon Cuttings and Ground Breakings

The Chamber offers ribbon cuttings and ground breakings tonew businesses in Pharr and the surrounding area at no cost tothe business. Existing members celebrating anniversaries or whorelocate, renovate or expand are also invited to hold a ribboncutting ceremony.

308 W. Newcombe (Park) Ave.Pharr, Texas 78577Call 956.787.1481

Visit www.pharrchamber.com

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http://www.pharrchamber.com/

http://www.psjaisd.us/


The Raymondville Chamber of Commerce has been inexistence for over 60 years and is committed to the task of promoting Raymondville and Willacy County as a visitorcenter and promoting and expanding businesses in the area. Promotion isconducted through brochures, pamphlets, a website and through the officepersonnel located at the Rural Technical Center in Raymondville. TheRural Technical Center has served as a hub for the Raymondville andWillacy County area, housing Workforce Solutions, the EconomicDevelopment Center of Raymondville, a satellite campus of the Universityof Texas Brownsville and incubator business offices.It is through these partnershipsthat an array of services areprovided to the community.

Hannah Garza

Ubaldo Mungia

Greg Storm

Greg Storm

Greg Storm

RaymondvilleChamber of Commerce

P.O. Box 746700 FM 3168

Raymondville, Texas 78580

956-689-1864fax 956-689-1863

[email protected]

Economic Development and Expansion inRaymondville

d The Little Caesars pizza franchise is building a 1,500-square-foot building along Hidalgo Avenue

d VTCI/VTXC is installing fiber optic in Willacy County; the firstphase over 20 percent complete and expanding

d VTCI is constructing a state-of-the-art, 15,000-square-footfacility on east Hidalgo Avenue

d Barbee Neuhause (John Deere) is relocating to an expandedand remodeled, 5,000-square-foot building along the frontage ofHighway 77

d The Texas Department of Human Services is expanding andrelocating into a new 10,000-square-foot building

d The Su Clinica renovation and expansion on FM 3168 is almostcomplete

d La Jarra Estates will be developed on 500 acres along eastHighway 186. It will include two- to three-acre homes, amemory care unit with 18 beds and an upscale RV park withwalking trails and butterfly gardens

d Laguna Point Recreation Park in Port Mansfield will beconstructing a new fishing pier and birding trails

d Two wind farms are locating to Raymondville and WillacyCounty. E-On Climate and Renewables is located off Highway186 and Texas Energy (Duke Energy) is being constructed in theSanta Monica-Lyford area

d Plans are being developed for a Willacy County Sports Complexand roping arena

d The Federal Bureau of Prisons recently signed a five-yearcontract with MTC

d The Willacy County Appraisal District will be constructing anew facility on property adjacent to the Rural Technical Center

d Kids Skills is relocating to FM 3168 with the construction of anew building

d The City of Raymondville is upgrading several of its residentialstreets

d Texas State Technical College and University of Texas-Brownsville are now servicing Willacy County students

d Raymondville High School received a Texas Title One PrioritySchool Grant focusing on the pathways of high school studentsthrough electives leading to graduating with college creditsand training

d Valley Federal Credit Union locates to Raymondvilled Willacy County is steadily working hard on street and drainage

improvements

We are excited to boast about these highlights and present andupcoming progress and development in Raymondville and WillacyCounty.

Raymondville

http://www.raymondvillechamber.com/


Rio Grande City, one of the oldestsettlements in South Texas, is aunique community of nearly 14,000residents located in the extremesouth-central portion of Starr

County. It serves as the seat of governmentfor the county as well as an international portof entry, linking with Camargo, Tamaulipas,via the Rio Grande City-CamargoInternational Bridge. This connectionprovides residents and visitors easy accessto the shopping, dining and entertainment ofMexico.

In town, Rio Grande City, a Texas Main StreetCity, offers its own collection of shops andrestaurants, and is committed to thepreservation of its rich historicalarchitecture. The city is part of the LosCaminos del Rio or “roads of the river”heritage corridor. Its downtown housesvarious notable landmarks, including the LaBorde House, a two-story brick hotel builtbetween 1877 and 1898. The hotel was savedfrom its dilapidated state in 1978, when SanAntonio businessman Larry Sheerinpurchased the structure. Today, after much

Rio Grande City


restoration work, the La Borde House is openas a full-service, luxury hotel.

Fort Ringgold (formerly Camp Ringgold) sitson the eastern edge of Rio Grande City andwas in operation from the mid-1800s until itsdeactivation in 1944. In addition to the mainfort, the complex houses the historic RobertE. Lee House, circa 1856. Fort Ringgold wasdesignated a Texas Historic Landmark by theTexas Historical Commission in 1965 and isnow owned by the Rio Grande CityConsolidated Independent School District.

Additional historic sites in town include theMifflin Kenedy Warehouse (1854), theArcadio F. Salinas House (1800), the FirstUnited Methodist Church (1888), the Headly-Edgerton Building (1894), the Silverio De LaPena Building (1886) and the Grotto ofLourdes (1928)—a replica of the Grotto ofLourdes in France.

Come and explore the historical charm of thisSouth Texas community. For moreinformation, visit www.cityofrgc.com.

http://www.riomotors.com/


Welcome to Rio Grande City, Texas! This is the land where the hills meet a river;

a time when the past meets the present; and the feel of the frontier of the Wild,

Wild, West meeting the world. These three themes – the Great Outdoors, History

and the Wild West - make Rio Grande City a destination for travelers with a

penchant for the new and undiscovered and who seek a taste of adventure.

Walk the streets where gunslingers had their show-downs, spot migrating

birds along the Rio Grande, or visit Texas’ version of France’s Grotto of Our

Lady of Lourdes. Oh, and that old admonition, "Whatever you do, stay out

of Starr County," – that's simply a ruse spread by folks who want to

keep a good thing to themselves!

www.cityofrgc.com

The historic district of Roma was designated in1990 as a historic national monument. To roamits streets is to encounter the past of a glorious,prosperous city, and one that’s in line to becomeone of the major cities with economic growthfor its location.

Visit the museum, world center for birds, opentheater, and shops decorated with antiques.This is where the traditions and customs of yesteryear are conserved. Where the pastmeets the present. Don’t stop coming to Roma, the eternal city, located on a cliff thatlooks out to the Rio Grande, and marks theend of the Sierra de Picachos o de Cerralvo.Bed of conquistadores of this new region, enjoy one of the most panoramic views of the region.

The City of Roma: It’s a city to walk, and ride a bicycle. It has a bird observatory and a river walk. A place where you can enjoy the clean air with a smell of history.

��

http://www.cityofroma.net/


San Benito

San Benito is a quaint city of 24,250positioned between Harlingen andBrownsville in deep South Texas.Its location near the Free TradeInternational Bridge at Los Indios

makes San Benito a perfect choice forcommerce and business development, whileits vibrant culture is revered by bothresidents and visitors.

The community’s cultural community isanchored by the Narciso Martinez CulturalArts Center and the Museums of SanBenito—a unique history complex nestledwithin the San Benito Community Building.Included are the San Benito HistoryMuseum, the Freddy Fender Museum and theTexas Conjunto Music Hall of Fame andMuseum. San Benito is the birthplace ofTexas-Mexican conjunto music, which is notonly celebrated at this fantastic museum butalso at the annual Conjunto Music Festival, aone-of-a-kind, three-day event held at thecultural arts center in October.

In addition, San Benito is an impressivedestination for nature enthusiasts and ishome to the unique Challenger LearningCenter of the Rio Grande Valley. This widelyacclaimed center promotes cooperativelearning, problem-solving and decision-making in the areas of mathematics, science,information and technology. The core of theChallenger Learning Center is a two-roomsimulator, which includes a space stationand mission control room designed afterNASA’s Johnson Space Center, and a hands-on space lab.

Other notable characteristics of the SanBenito community include a low cost ofliving, affordable and quality housing,convenient shopping outlets and primecommercial and industrial sites. With all ofthis and more, there is no doubt the dynamiccity of San Benito is poised for growth. Learnmore about the city by visiting the City of SanBenito website, www.cityofsanbenito.com.

99 Rio Grande Valley Partnership 2012-2013


Welcome to the City of San Juan,the Spirit of the Rio GrandeValley! San Juan is locatedwithin Rio South Texas,which is the largest U.S./

Mexico border region in the country with 2.3million people. Rio South Texas is the third-largest metroplex in Texas and 23rd in thenation, making San Juan an ideal place to locateyour business. San Juan boasts a consumerbase of 436,000 within a 10-mile radius.

As home to the Basilica of Our Lady of SanJuan del Valle National Shrine, whichattracts over 25,000 visitors per week, SanJuan offers an excellent tourism base thatincludes local, national and international

travelers. The Basilica is surrounded by a ¾-mile walking trail that displays the 14Stations of the Cross with 30 life-size statues.

San Juan is home to Liberty Park that boaststhe tallest flagpole in all of South Texas. Plus,North San Juan Park stands as one of 2008Texas' Best "Backyard" Wildlife Habitats bythe National Wildlife Federation and TexasParks & Wildlife Department. San Juan issurrounded by abundant wildlife that can beseen in its seven acres of wetlands andnature trails.

San Juan presents a canvas of culture thatprovides an extensive consumer base and aworkforce that offers professionalism,

proficiency and skill. Because of its proximityto several international bridges within theMcAllen-Edinburg-Mission MSA, San Juan'sprime location offers opportunities that areideal for industrial development andexpansion.

San Juan offers visitors a unique look atValley life as well as a rich shoppingexperience with local vendors. Its centrallocation allows the city to present a canvasof culture that provides a colorful andexciting time for all visitors. The small-townfeel to our streets, alongside the quickaccess to other metropolitan areas, makesSan Juan special.

San Juan


http://sanjuanedc.com/

http://sanjuanedc.com/


Offers a Year-Round BeachGetaway

With white sandy beachesand blue water, SouthPadre Island may seemmore like a Caribbeangetaway than part of the

Texas Gulf Coast. The island’s location on thetropical tip of Texas provides a year-roundbeach destination that draws visitors from allover the U.S.

Miles of sugary, clean beaches are the mainattraction. The Island’s other offerings,including abundant wildlife, activities, familyattractions and modern resort amenities,make it a top destination for more than onemillion overnighting visitors each year.

The Island is rich in wildlife viewingopportunities. More than 300 species ofmigratory birds stop here each year duringspring and fall migrations, making SouthPadre one of the best birding locations in theWestern Hemisphere. The Island’s wetlandsprovide a refuge for shorebirds andwaterfowl.

The South Padre Island Birding & NatureCenter offers exhibits on birding and othernatural features of the Island, along with afive-story viewing tower, viewing blinds andboardwalk nature trails. For other birdingopportunities, visitors can choose a guidedtour or visit one of the Island’s dedicatedbirding areas.

Giant sea turtles also call South Padre Islandhome, including the Kemp’s Ridley, theworld’s most endangered sea turtle. Visitorscan see these appealing creatures up-closeat Sea Turtle, Inc., a facility dedicated to

rescuing andprotecting marineturtles.

Dolphin families liveyear-round in thewaters off of theIsland. The Island’sdolphin viewing tourproviders boast asighting successrate of nearly 100percent due to thehigh number ofdolphins in theIsland’s waters.

The Island lets visitors be as active as theywant to be. On the western shore, theLaguna Madre Bay’s shallow, calm watersmake it one of the safest places in the U.S. tolearn to kiteboard or windsurf. Parasailing,snorkeling and unique deep-sea divingopportunities also keep active travelers busy.With more than 600 different fish speciesinhabiting the Island’s waters, sport fishing isa favorite activity, from surfcasting to deep-sea fishing.

South Padre Island plays many roles: familyvacation destination, romantic islandgetaway, tropical winter haven and springbreak escape. The Island provides guestswith everything they need to tailor their owncustom beach vacation experience.

South Padre Island

http://www.spibirding.com/


sopadre.com


Starr County

Starr Countystands asone of fourcountiescomprising

the Rio Grande Valley,joining Willacy, Hidalgoand Cameron counties.The county, whichstretches over 1,229miles in the farnorthwest corner of theValley, is home toapproximately 61,000residents. Rio GrandeCity, the county seat, isthe largest city withinthe county, followed byRoma, La Grulla andEscobares.

Named for JamesHarper Starr—Secretary of Treasuryof the Republic ofTexas—Starr Countyfeatures two historicdistricts in Rio GrandeCity and Roma as wellas the Roma BluffsWorld Birding Centerand the beautifulFalcon State Park, anunmatched outdoordestination. The areaalso hosts severalmuch-anticipatedcommunity events,including the StarrCounty Fair and theFourth of July Parade &Festival.

For additionalinformation, visit theStarr County website atwww.co.starr.tx.us.


Weslaco, the logistic centerof the Rio Grande Valley, isjust 15 minutes to the eastof McAllen and 15 minutesto the west of Harlingen on

U.S. Expressway 83. Different from othercities in the Rio Grande Valley, Weslaco combinesthe growth and commerce of a thrivingmetropolis with the charm and relaxed feel ofa small community. Weslaco is quicklybecoming the economic center of the RioGrande Valley and local, regional, nationaland international investors are taking notice.

Downtown Weslaco retains the charm andbeauty that gives a true heart and soul to thecity, which attracts locals and visitors forshopping and dining. Along Expressway 83,you will find major retail chains creating theperfect blend of small-town and big-cityshopping. Every month, enjoy live jazz music,art displays and delicious food at AlfrescoWeslaco, right on Texas Blvd. Stop by thefarmers’ market every Thursday for locallygrown produce and all kinds of delicious food.

Weslaco is the center of the Valley’s naturetourism, with three prominent nature parks.

The World Birding Center at Estero LlanoGrande State Park, located at 3301 S.International Blvd., is a 230-acre refuge thatattracts a spectacular array of birds,butterflies, dragonflies and South Texaswildlife. Frontera Audubon, in the middle oftown, is 15 acres of restored native habitatonce part of the historic Skaggs estate. TheValley Nature Center, also in the heart ofWeslaco, is six acres of nature featuring lushvegetation, a cactus garden, bog ponds anda butterfly garden. All three nature parks are

home to a myriad of migrating birds in thefall, winter and spring seasons.

History and culture are two more ofWeslaco’s rich resources. The downtownWeslaco Museum features an exhibit on thecity’s history, local heroes and travelingexhibits throughout the year. The TowerTheater and Mayor Eugene A. BraughtMemorial Theater host a variety of playsyear-round. The historic Villa de Cortez,which opened in the late 1920s, is one ofWeslaco’s oldest buildings and featuresbeautiful Spanish architecture.

Texas Onion Fest celebrates the sweet Texasonion, which was developed in Weslaco atthe Texas A&M University Extension Service.Held every year at the end of March, TexasOnion Fest features live entertainment,dancing horses, recipe contests, cookingdemonstrations, delicious food, including thepopular blooming onion, and so much more!

Welcome to Weslaco!

For more information on these and otherevents, visit www.weslaco.com.

Weslaco


Holiday Inn Express & Suites421 South International Boulevard • Weslaco, TX 78596

Hotel Front Desk: 956-973-2222 • Fax: 956-968-9222For Reservations:

1-800-HOLIDAY

www.hiexpress.com/weslacotx

http://www.hiexpress.com/weslacotx

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From the white sand beaches of South Padre Island to the gently rolling hills of FalconState Park, the Rio Grande Valley is a great place to live, work and play. The areastretches from the Rio Grande River along the U.S. - Mexico border to the northernranch country in the northern sections of Cameron, Hidalgo, Starr and Willacycounties, making it the largest border region in the U.S.

The Valley’s close ties to Mexico is reflected in the architecture, language and culture with amixture of old-world charm and innovation. The subtropical climate with moderate winters isconducive to active lifestyles. Smart retirees select South Texas as their choice to winter and,once they experience all that the area has to offer, many decide to call the Valley home year-round. The area is ripe with wholesome family activities, great schools and safeneighborhoods.

A young and trainable workforce makes this an ideal location for new start-ups and businesseslooking to relocate or expand. The area is already known for its manufacturing andwarehousing so it makes sense to consider establishing or relocating research anddevelopment departments here.

The Rio Grande Valley has everything you would expect to find in a large city, with multipleaward-winning hospitals, major chain stores and restaurants, outstanding entertainmentvenues, world-class birding, hunting and fishing, professional sports and more. The 2012-2013edition of the Guide to the Rio Grande Valley features information on things to do, places to see,businesses that are thriving here and listings of area resources and attractions. This alsomarks my first year as President of the Rio Grande Valley Partnership, which publishes theGuide.

Once you look through our publication, I'm certain you will understand why this region isconsistently included in national rankings regarding job growth, safety, low cost of living andtourism. I welcome your comments and suggestions.

Sincerely,

Julian AlvarezPresident, Rio Grande Valley Partnership

5001 Bodenhamer Ave.P.O. Box 530819Harlingen, Texas 78553

Bus (956) 423-7317Fax (956) 423-1706

www.gulf-aviation.net

Learn to Fly or Charter a Flight with

Discover the Real South Texas

http://techpreprgv.com/

http://www.gulf-aviation.net/


Index of AdvertisersAEP Texas ............................................................................................................................................ 40

Aguaworks Pipe & Supply, LLC...................................................................................................... 47

Alamo Inn............................................................................................................................................. 48

Brownsville Convention & Visitors Bureau, Inc......................................................................... 53

Card Investment Group, Inc. ........................................................................................................... 65

City of Donna ................................................................................................................................. 54-55

City of Hidalgo............................................................................................................................... 66, 67

City of La Feria .............................................................................................................................. 70, 71

City of McAllen ................................................................................................................................... 73

City of Roma......................................................................................................................................... 97

The County of Hidalgo, Texas.................................................................................................... 68-69

Doctors Hospital at Renaissance .................................................................................................. 56

Edinburg Convention & Visitors Bureau ...................................................................................... 59

Edinburg Economic Development Corporation ................................................................... 58, 59

Gladys Porter Zoo ............................................................................................................................. 52

Greater Mission Chamber of Commerce................................................................................84-85

Gulf Aviation.......................................................................................................... Inside Front Cover

Harlingen Consolidated Independent School District.............................................................. 62

Harlingen Convention & Visitors Bureau / Valley International Airport............................... 61

Harlingen Public Schools................................................................................................................. 63

Holiday Inn Express & Suites........................................................................................................ 110

IDEA Public Schools............................................................................................................................ 2

Magic Valley Electric Cooperative .................................................................................................. 7

McAllen Economic Development Corporation .......................................................................... 77

McAllen Independent School District.................................................................................... 74, 75

McKenna Allergy & Asthma Clinic - William R. McKenna, M.D., P.A........................................ 65

Mercedes Independent School District ................................................................................ 80, 81

Mission CISD....................................................................................................................................... 83

One Stop Staffing ................................................................................................................................. 6

Pharr Chamber of Commerce................................................................................................... 88, 89

Pharr-Reynosa International Bridge............................................................................................. 87

Pharr-San Juan-Alamo Independent School District ........................................................ 90-91

Port of Brownsville ............................................................................................................................ 51

Raymondville Chamber of Commerce.......................................................................................... 92

Ricardo Carreon & Associates....................................................................................................... 43

Rio Grande City Main Street............................................................................................................ 95

Rio Grande City Trolley Tours .......................................................................................................... 95

Rio Motor Company.......................................................................................................................... 94

San Benito Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Center ................................................... 100-101

San Juan Economic Development Corporation .............................................................. 104-105

South Padre Island Birding and Nature Center....................................................................... 106

South Padre Island Convention and Visitor's Bureau............................................................ 107

South Texas Independent School District ..................................................................................... 1

State Farm - James Newman, Agent ........................................................................................... 72

State Farm Arena............................................................................................................................... 17

Tech Prep of the Rio Grande Valley, Inc. ....................................................... Inside Front Cover

United Healthcare................................................................................................................................ 5

The University of Texas Pan American ........................................................................................ 57

Valley Baptist Health System.................................................................................................... 50, 65

Valley Symphony Orchestra & Chorale........................................................................................ 76

VillageProfile.com, inc.....................................................................................................................112

VTX 1...................................................................................................................................................... 41

Weslaco Chamber of Commerce & Visitor's Center.............................................................. 111

Workforce Solutions ......................................................................................................................... 47

World Birding Center ........................................................................................................................ 96


Documents

Rio Grande Valley TX Community Profile