McAllenTexas
TOP sPOTFOR JOBs
LeT’s PLay!Great parks provide
family fun
Imagine That
City has vibrant arts scene
sPOnsORed By The mcaLLen ChamBeR OF COmmeRCe
2012 | ImagesmCaLLen.COm
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On The COveR The Three Graces: Faith, Hope & Charity, by Mick Reber Photo by Brian McCord
dePartments
8 almanac
20 Biz Briefs
22 Chamber Report
23 economic Profile
26 Local Flavor
27 arts & Culture
28 health & Wellness
30 sports & Recreation
31 education
32 Community Profile
33 Through the Lens
contents
Features
10 LeT’s PLay!City parks provide fun for the entire family
14 ImagIne ThaTMcAllen has a vibrant arts scene
18 TOP sPOT FOR JOBsProximity to Mexico helps bolster the business climate
24 hOmes WITh ReeL InsPIRaTIOnLong-standing local neighborhood among film director’s credits
10
14
TexasMcAllen2012 | ImagesmCaLLen.COm
imaGesmCallen.Com 3
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McAllenTexas
TOP sPOTFOR JOBs
LeT’s PLay!Great parks provide
family fun
Imagine That
City has vibrant arts scene
sPOnsORed By The mcaLLen ChamBeR OF COmmeRCe
2012 | ImagesmCaLLen.COm
Facts Get the most up-to-date info on cost of living, top employers, schools, population demographics and more
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What’s online imagesmcallen.com
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The arts scene is thriving in McAllen largely due to partnerships between the McAllen Chamber
of Commerce and city government, which nurture local talent in visual and performing arts. McAllen’s diversity and location play a part in local arts, according to Cultural Arts Coordinator Jamie Tabak of the McAllen Chamber of Commerce.
“McAllen has attracted many diverse kinds of art and artists. We have art ranging from embroidery to graphics to music to style. It’s a little bit of everything,” Tabak says.
Helping Artists GrowThe McA2 Creative Incubator
provides low-cost studio space and technical assistance for artists. It’s a “sister of the Chamber” and encompasses all types of art in its 12 available studios. Artists in residence at the Incubator include a guitar teacher, oil and watercolor artists, a voice coach, and an actor. There’s even a radio station, as well as exhibition and performance space.
Live, Local MusicMusic After Hours, held
monthly, features live and local artists from various genres of
music. Performances typically take place at historic Archer Park on first Fridays, but are at Bill Schupp Park during summer months.You’re likely to hear anything at Music After Hours, from country to jazz to pop. Artists from all over the Rio Grande Valley have performed for the family-friendly free series, which is sponsored by the Chamber and City of McAllen.
Art in PublicPublic art is making a visual
impact on McAllen, too. The public art program, which began three years ago, commissions the works
MCALLEN HAS VIBRANT ARTS SCENE
STORY BY PAUL LADD
THATImagine
Rosalina Balderas paints a portrait in Paul Pritchett’s oil painting class at the McA2 Creative Incubator.
14 McALLEN IMAGESMCALLEN.COM 15
MCALLEN HAS VIBRANT ARTS SCENE
Imagine
14 McALLEN IMAGESMCALLEN.COM 15
COnTenT dIReCTOR LisA BAttLes
PROOFReadIng manageR RAven Petty
COnTenT COORdInaTOR JessiCA WALkeR
sTaFF WRITeR kevin LitWin
COPy edITOR JiLL WyAtt
COnTRIBuTIng WRITeRs MeLonee HuRt, PAuL LAdd,
BRAndon LoWe, kARen sCHWARtzMAn,
CARson o’ sHoney, BRAxton sHooP, tiffAny WiLLiAMs
senIOR gRaPhIC desIgneRs LAuRA GALLAGHeR,
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gRaPhIC desIgneRs RACHAeL GeRRinGeR, tAyLoR nunLey
senIOR PhOTOgRaPheRs Jeff Adkins, BRiAn McCoRd
sTaFF PhOTOgRaPheRs todd Bennett, Antony BosHieR
COLOR ImagIng TeChnICIan ALison HunteR
InTegRaTed medIa manageR BRyAnt GRAntHAM
ad PROduCTIOn manageR kAtie MiddendoRf
ad TRaFFIC assIsTanTs kRystin LeMMon, PAtRiCiA MoisAn
ChaIRman GReG tHuRMAn
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exeCuTIve vICe PResIdenT RAy LAnGen
senIOR v.P./saLes todd PotteR
senIOR v.P./OPeRaTIOns CAsey HesteR
senIOR v.P./CLIenT deveLOPmenT Jeff HeefneR
senIOR v.P./BusIness deveLOPmenT sCott teMPLeton
senIOR v.P./agRIBusIness PuBLIshIng kiM HoLMBeRG
v.P./BusIness deveLOPmenT CHARLes fitzGiBBon
v.P./exTeRnaL COmmunICaTIOns teRee CARutHeRs
v.P./vIsuaL COnTenT MARk foResteR
v.P./COnTenT OPeRaTIOns nAtAsHA LoRens
v.P./TRaveL PuBLIshIng susAn CHAPPeLL
v.P./saLes HeRB HARPeR, JARek sWekosky
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aCCOunTs ReCeIvaBLe COORdInaTOR diAnA GuzMAn
OFFICe manageR/aCCOunTs ReCeIvaBLe
COORdInaTOR sHeLLy MiLLeR
saLes suPPORT COORdInaTOR ALex MARks
I.T. dIReCTOR yAnCey Bond
sysTem admInIsTRaTOR dAnieL CAntReLL
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PhOTOgRaPhy dIReCTOR JeffRey s. otto
medIa TeChnOLOgy dIReCTOR CHRistinA CARden
medIa TeChnOLOgy anaLysTs BeCCA ARy,
CHAndRA BRAdsHAW
audIenCe deveLOPmenT dIReCTOR deAnnA neLson
maRkeTIng CReaTIve dIReCTOR keitH HARRis
dIsTRIBuTIOn dIReCTOR GARy sMitH
exeCuTIve seCReTaRy kRisty dunCAn
human ResOuRCes manageR PeGGy BLAke
ReCePTIOnIsT LindA BisHoP
McAllen is published annually by Journal Communications inc. and is distributed
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for advertising information or to direct questions or comments about the magazine, contact
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FOR mORe InFORmaTIOn, COnTaCT:McAllen Chamber of Commerce
1200 Ash Avenue, McAllen, tx 78501Phone: (956) 682-2871 • fax: (956) 687-2917
www.mcallenchamber.com
vIsIT McAllen OnLIne aT ImagesmCaLLen.COm
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TexasMcAllen
McAllen
imaGesmCallen.Com 7
Welcome to McAllenan introduCtion to the area’s people, plaCes and events
Birds of a featherMixing the scenery of a 1930s spanish
Revival country estate with the sounds
of the World Birding Center, Quinta
Mazatlan makes for a peaceful escape
in the heart of McAllen. the adobe
hacienda is surrounded by tropical
landscaping and native woodland,
making it ideal as a conference and
events center as well as a bird-watcher’s
paradise. More than 15 acres of birding
habitat attract many of the favorite
valley species from around the country,
including Black-bellied Whistling ducks,
Green Jays, Plain Chachalacas and olive
sparrows. the grounds also feature bird-
feeding stations and a hummingbird lane.
Almanac
time to CelebrateMcAllen celebrated a major milestone last february. the
month marked the city’s 100th anniversary, and to commemorate,
the McAllen Chamber of Commerce and McAllen Centennial Publications
jointly published McAllen’s First 100 Years – Leading the Way. Hailed
as the definitive book on McAllen history, it discusses how the community
was shaped, important people and remarkable events, legacies left and
future growth. the book, written by accomplished local writer eileen
Mattei, is available for sale at the McAllen Chamber of Commerce.
Art smartsMcAllen is home to the
international Museum of Art
& science, an educational
community museum that
preserves the past, records the
present and provides perspective
for the future. Affiliated with the
smithsonian, it houses the nation’s
largest collection of Mexican folk
art, with more than 3,000 pieces.
the museum, which opened
in 1969, also houses several
traveling arts exhibitions, its
own impressive collections
and new hands-on exhibitions.
8 mcallen imaGesmCallen.Com 9
POPuLaTIOn (2010 esTImaTe)McAllen: 129,877
Hidalgo County: 774,769
LOCaTIOnMcAllen is in the Rio
Grande valley of south
texas, 70 miles west of
the Gulf of Mexico.
BegInnIngsthe city of McAllen was
unofficially founded in 1904
and incorporated in 1911.
FOR mORe InFORmaTIOnMcAllen Chamber of
Commerce
1200 Ash Ave.
McAllen, tx 78501
Phone: (956) 682-2871
fax: (956) 687-2917 www.mcallenchamber.com
mcallen at a glance
Rio GrandeG
Rio Grande
83
281
281
83
7777
28128222777777
ReynosaoR osao
MatamorosRio Bravo
Brownsvilleowwn vvv
WeslacoHarlingenrlining
Edinburg
Mission
Pharr
McAllen
H I DA L G O
MEXICO
UNITED STATES
What’s online Take a virtual tour of McAllen, courtesy of our award-winning photographers, at imagesmcallen.com.
McAllen
Advanced educationMcAllen enjoys a reputation for excellent education,
thanks in part to the McAllen independent school
district’s international Baccalaureate Program. the
international Baccalaureate organization works with
schools, governments and international organizations
to develop challenging programs of international
education. the program is divided into three separate
segments depending on grade and is available to
students of all ages. Lamar Academy began offering
classes in McAllen in 2001.
Read All About itthe McAllen Public Library has just opened a
brand-new set of doors. the original building on
Main street opened in 1950 with 40,000 square
feet and three floors. the new library, located at
nolana and 23rd, will cover just one floor and
123,000 square feet,
making it the largest
single-floor public
library in the nation.
the new site will
allow significant
increases to
the library’s
collection,
and also
includes
computer labs and
meeting rooms. other
new features will
include a teen area,
cafe, quiet reading
room, expanded
children’s section,
electronic classrooms
and an art gallery.
Fast Factsn the los ebanos Ferry is the last hand-operated ferry on the u.s.-mexico border.
n people come from all over the world to compete in the valley land Fund south texas shootout photo contest, held since 1994.
n there are more than 600 restaurants within the city limits of mcallen.
n more than 100 of the Fortune 500’s global manufacturers have operations in mcallen or across the border in reynosa.
8 mcallen imaGesmCallen.Com 9
imaGesmCallen.Com 11 10 mcallen
From lush golf courses to picturesque lakes, the Rio Grande Valley abounds with open-air recreation opportunities. But thanks to a network of beautiful parks, McAllen residents need not leave the city to discover a world of outdoor fun.
Fireman’s ParkThe McAllen Parks & Recreation Department currently oversees
25 city parks in McAllen, the new centerpiece of which is Fireman’s Park, which will be open to the public in early 2012. The 15-acre project broke ground in October 2010 and represents the city of McAllen’s firm commitment to public spaces.
Perhaps the most unique element of the park will be its camping option, says McAllen Parks and Recreation Director Sally Gavlik.
“Unlike traditional urban parks, Fireman’s Park contains elements normally found only at a state or regional park,” she says. “That makes the park an excellent stepping stone for people who aren’t accustomed to the camping experience, including Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts.”
Fireman’s Park will also boast a 5-acre lake that will be ideal for canoeing and kayaking. The lake will feature a beach area complete
stoRy By BRandOn LOWe
PLAY!LET’S
BR
iAn
McC
oR
d
CITy PaRks PROvIde Fun FOR The enTIRe FamILy
a young man shows his skills on a bike at mcallen’s spray and Ground park.
imaGesmCallen.Com 11 imaGesmCallen.Com 11
PHotos By BRiAn McCoRd
imaGesmCallen.Com 13 12 mcallen
with a concession stand. Meanwhile, on the opposite side of the lake, a fishing pier will provide park visitors with a chance to fish without having to leave the city.
In addition to several playground areas, the park will have a circuit of stand-alone exercise equipment specifically designed for outdoor use, as well as several other amenities, including an on-site mini conference center for up to 75 people.
hike and BikeOne of the many things that makes the public
park system in McAllen so progressive is its network of quality hike-and-bike trails. The trails were expanded in 2010 to help connect the entire city. Similar trail networks in larger cities like Austin inspired the expansion.
“We have been lucky enough to have a city government that realizes city parks are integral to bringing a community together,” Gavlik says.
Indeed, the vitality of McAllen is physically manifested through the city’s elaborate system of trails and parks, something long-time McAllen resident Luis Fuentes can attest to.
“The parks here are nice and peaceful,” says
79-year-old Fuentes, who has been using McAllen parks for nearly 30 years. “I do all of my walking and exercising there. And I usually see many people I know while I’m there.”
Family Fun Found hereMcAllen’s Spray and Ground Park has been a hit
with kids and parents alike since it opened in 2010 and has become an especially popular site for birthday parties. In fact, the park has been such a draw for families across the region that McAllen will be adding a second splash park in 2012 near the Palm View Community Center.
Local dog owners have been enjoying the city’s new dog park located at Tamarack Ave. and 5th Street. Also new to the park system is Curtis Park, already a favorite for family reunions.
Sports enthusiasts will enjoy Los Encinos Community Park. One of McAllen’s newest additions, the park is home to baseball, football, soccer and softball fields, in addition to basketball, volleyball and tennis courts.
For a complete list of McAllen’s city parks, visit the City of McAllen website at www.mcallen.net.
Bikers take advantage of the city’s 2010 trails expansion. Left, Top: softball practice at mcallen’s new spray and Ground park. Left, Bottom: Kids play at the city’s new spray and Ground park.
Je
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Re
y s
. o
tt
o
imaGesmCallen.Com 13
mcaLLen has vIBRanT aRTs sCene
Imagine
14 mcallen imaGesmCallen.Com 15
The arts scene is thriving in McAllen largely due to partnerships between the McAllen Chamber
of Commerce and city government, which nurture local talent in visual and performing arts. McAllen’s diversity and location play a part in local arts, according to Cultural Arts Coordinator Jamie Tabak of the McAllen Chamber of Commerce.
“McAllen has attracted many diverse kinds of art and artists. We have art ranging from embroidery to graphics to music to style. It’s a little bit of everything,” Tabak says.
helping artists growThe McA2 Creative Incubator
provides low-cost studio space and technical assistance for artists. It’s a “sister of the Chamber” and encompasses all types of art in its 12 available studios. Artists in residence at the Incubator include a guitar teacher, oil and watercolor artists, a voice coach, and an actor. There’s even a radio station, as well as exhibition and performance space.
Live, Local musicMusic After Hours, held
monthly, features live and local artists from various genres of
music. Performances typically take place at historic Archer Park on first Fridays, but are at Bill Schupp Park during summer months. You’re likely to hear anything at Music After Hours, from country to jazz to pop. Artists from all over the Rio Grande Valley have performed for the family-friendly free series, which is sponsored by the Chamber and City of McAllen.
art in PublicPublic art is making a visual
impact on McAllen, too. The public art program, which began three years ago, commissions the works
mcaLLen has vIBRanT aRTs sCene
stoRy By PauL Ladd
thatImagine
rosalina Balderas paints a portrait in paul pritchett’s oil painting class at the mca2 Creative incubator.
14 mcallen imaGesmCallen.Com 15
of area artists for display at various locations around town.
“Artists dream of having their work displayed in a community – their own community,” says Keith Arney, who chairs the city’s Public Art Committee.
One of the more talked-about pieces is a sculpture called The Three Graces on Main Street in the Arts District. Artist Mick Reber’s work represents the graces of faith, hope and charity.
Other new works include the Irrigation Worker sculpture by Douglas Clark; Jackrabbit, a joint work by Nancy Moyer and Clark; and Joe Taylor’s two-dimensional history of McAllen in graphite.
Arney reports funding for the public art has come from public funds and several private sources.
“We’re really excited about how
much support we’ve received. It’s making this beautiful community more beautiful,” Arney says.
Theatre and FilmMcAllen’s theatre scene is
also growing. Plays and musicals are often performed on the University of Texas-Pan American and South Texas College campuses. In addition, the historic Cine El Rey theater on South 17th Street hosts live performances, including concerts, comedy shows and plays, along with classic movies. McAllen is also attracting interest from movie and television producers.
Visitors and locals alike are pleasantly surprised at McAllen’s strong arts scene, says Tabak, who adds that it’s no longer necessary to travel to other larger cities to enjoy the visual or performing arts.
An
to
ny
Bo
sH
ieR
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Left: Cine el rey lights up 17th street with its neon glow. above: the art village on main PHoto By BRiAn McCoRd
16 mcallen imaGesmCallen.Com 17
While other areas continue to feel the effects of a struggling economy, McAllen’s local businesses are seeing successes in a local economy that’s
earning national accolades.For example, McAllen landed atop the Forbes
magazine list of Best Cities for Jobs again in 2011. The McAllen metropolitan statistical area (MSA), which includes all of Hidalgo County, ranked No. 4 in the list of mid-sized cities, up from No. 6 the previous year, showing a 1.5 percent increase in non-farm employment.
In compiling its annual list, Forbes ranks all 398 MSAs in the U.S. based on employment data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Rankings are based on recent growth trends, mid-term growth, long-term growth and momentum.
Business Comes north of the BorderLocal businessman David Martinez attributes
much of McAllen’s success to its neighbors to the south in Mexico. He says on any given day, certain shopping-area parking lots will contain as much as 80 percent Mexican license plates.
“This is a great place for small business, and it’s because of the uniqueness of the market. We aren’t as affected by what’s going on in the country as much, as long as there’s money in Mexico,” Martinez says.
Among Martinez’s eight businesses, five of which
are in the McAllen area, are bookstores, Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream, and Russo’s New York Pizzeria, which opened in January of 2009. Of the 32 U.S. Russo’s franchises, his McAllen location ranks No. 2 in sales.
Martinez says he feels the effects of the nation’s economy woes much more in other states where he does business, such as Florida.
“We have a warehouse in Florida where we wholesale to bookstores,” he says. “They are hardly buying anything. Texas is different. The bookstores we sell to in Texas are fairly strong.”
Big and small Businesses Feel the effectsThat strong business climate is being felt on a larger
scale as well. FibeRio Technology Corp., a company that commercializes Forcespinning (tm) technology, won an R&D magazine 100 Award for the development and launch of a high-end piece of production machinery.
The annual R&D Awards recognize the 100 most technologically significant products introduced into the marketplace.
As for Martinez, he is continuing to grow his business portfolio – in the McAllen area.
“I already have some things in the works,” he says. “I get calls pretty often from people looking for franchisees. I think with my track record and what I can show that businesses do here, I can continue to bring new things down here.”
PROxImITy TO mexICO heLPs BOLsTeR The mcaLLen BusIness CLImaTe
for JOBSstoRy By meLOnee huRT | PHotoGRAPHy By BRIan mCCORd
TOP Spot
materials engineer Bharath raghavan inspects nanofibers at Fiberio technology Corp. in mcallen.
Business
18 mcallen
scorecardBusIness aT
a gLanCe
$3.6 billionannual retail sales
$28,682Retail sales
per capita
$357.5 millionannual hotel
and food sales
15,161Total number
of firms
Source: U.S. Census QuickFacts
Business
Biz BriefsBusinesses – Both larGe and small – that help deFine
mcallen’s eConomiC Climate
FRIda’s gRILL & CanTInaBiz: RestaurantBuzz: Frida’s Grill & Cantina opened in McAllen’s entertainment district in September 2010. Open for dinner Tuesday through Saturday from 5 until 11 p.m., Frida’s has a relaxed, upscale atmosphere, traditional Mexican cuisine as well as Mediterranean food and USDA prime steak. Guests also enjoy live, Latin-inspired music on Friday and Saturday nights. www.fridasgrillandcantina.com
BusinessBusiness
20 mcallen imaGesmCallen.Com 21
DANIEL J. GUERRA M.D., P.A.
Diplomate A.A.F.P. Fellow A.A.F.P.
LEONEL G. MORENO, M.D.
Diplomate A.A.F.P. Fellow A.A.F.P.
FAMILY PRACTICE WITH COMPETENCE AND INTEGRITY
FAMILY PHYSICIANS CLINIC Since 1967
Mon.-Fri. 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Sat. 8 a.m.-Noon
682-4515606 S. Broadway • McAllen, TX
HOMERO RIVAS, M.D.Diplomate A.A.F.P.
Fellow A.A.F.P.
VALLEY NIGHT CLINIC Since 1981
Open Every Night of the Year 6 p.m.-Midnight
682-4515606 S. Broadway • McAllen, TX
www.familyphysiciansclinic.com
PICkLes & ICe CReamBiz: Maternity clothing storeBuzz: Pickles & Ice Cream offers maternity apparel and merchandise such as diaper bags, nursing and skincare items, and gifts for mothers and babies. Located in the Trenton View Shopping Center, the store is part of the largest and oldest maternity clothing franchise in the United States. Pickles & Ice Cream is open from 10 a.m. until 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday.www.picklesandicecream.com
The shOPPes aT RIO gRande vaLLeyBiz: Retail developmentBuzz: Expected to open for business in 2012, The Shoppes at Rio Grande Valley will include stores such as Anna’s Linens, GNC and Petco. The shops will be anchored by JCPenney, Academy Sports + Outdoors and Burlington Coat Factory and will be part of a pedestrian-friendly outdoor mall.(860) 646-6555
maRIPOza BOuTIqueBiz: Jewelry and gift shopBuzz: Maripoza Boutique provides unusual jewelry, accessories, home decor and assorted gifts from various locations around the world. Customers can visit the shop at its primary location on North 10th Street and can also check out the boutique’s booth at the Saturday morning farmers market at Alhambra. Maripoza Boutique is open from 10 a.m. until 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday.(956) 686-4438
deBORah Case danCe aCademyBiz: Dance studioBuzz: Deborah Case Dance Academy offers a variety of classes, such as ballet, tap, jazz and hip-hop, for dancers of all ages. Owned by Deborah Case, the academy is home of the Rio Grande Valley Ballet, which has been performing in the area for nearly four decades.www.dcda.com
20 mcallen imaGesmCallen.Com 21
Business
chamber reportFive prototypes evolve From networKinG Group
supporting McAllen’s innovative spirit, the
McAllen Chamber of Commerce has created an inventors & entrepreneurship network designed to encourage members to share ideas and work together as a group to move those ideas forward.
McAllen Chamber of Commerce vice President of Business development and Governmental Affairs eduardo Millet says that although the networking aspect of this group is very important, the group is devoted to seeing action and success for its participants.
direction & Fundingthe group, which typically
boasts 50 attendees at its monthly
meetings, has been together
since 2010. Within its first year
it spawned at least five product
prototypes that came to the
group as simple ideas.
dalinda Gonzalez-Alcantar
is a teacher in the McAllen school
district who learned to build mobile
applications that could foster
student, parent and community
involvement. she brought her
idea to the group and it has
now evolved into her business,
eJucomm LLC.
“if it wasn’t for the i&e group,
i am sure i would still be at the
very premature stages of my
project,” Gonzalez-Alcantar says.
Gonzalez-Alcantar is also the
recipient of a $10,000 innovation
grant from the Chamber that
funded necessary legal start-up
expenses and the requisite
building blocks for the business.
got Ideas?fernando Ramirez and Jorge
Garcia brought an idea for an
automated baby-bottle washing
system to the group and are
working on preparing their
prototype to be market-ready.
“We hope to have a finished
design in the next few weeks,”
Ramirez says. “if it wasn’t for the
i&e network we would not have
gotten as far as we are now.”
Millet says that almost
everyone has some business idea
but isn’t sure how to get to the
next step.
“this group shows you that
it’s possible. By networking and
knowing others, you start actually
making connections, learning that
you need to act, and making
progress with your idea.”
– Melonee Hurt
6039-TR12260M_TGB_Livability.indd 1 3/22/10 11:40:09 AM 22 mcallen imaGesmCallen.Com 23
eCOnOmIC OveRvIeWMcAllen consistently ranks among Forbes’ best mid-sized
cities for jobs. it enjoys a strong, diverse economy, with
the most significant strength seen in its retail sector.
eCOnOmIC PROFILe
Taxes
2%City sales and use tax
6.25%state sales tax
8.25%total sales tax
WORkFORCe
39,362total workforce
80%percentage white Collar
20%percentage Blue Collar
eduCaTIOn
21%associate degree
29%Bachelor’s degree
InCOme
$19,047per Capita income
$41,864median annual household income
eCOnOmIC ResOuRCes
mcallen Chamber of Commerce1200 Ash Ave. McAllen, texas 78501 (956) 682-2871 www.mcallenchamber.com
mcallen Convention & visitors’ Bureau(956) 682-2871 www.mcallencvb.com
mcallen economic development Corporation
6401 s. 33rd st. McAllen, texas 78503 (956) 682-2875 www.medc.org
mcallen heart of the City 220 s. 17th st. McAllen, texas 78501 (956) 686-4357 www.mcallenheartofthecity.com
TRansPORTaTIOn
mcallen-miller international airport2500 s. Bicentennial Blvd. McAllen, texas 78503 (956) 682-9101 www.mcallenairport.com
mcallen express transit1500 W. Business Highway 83 McAllen, texas 78501 (956) 688-3500
mcallen/hidalgo international Bridge1023 international Blvd. Hidalgo, texas 78557 (956) 843-2471 www.mcallen.net/bridge
Greyhound/valley transit Company(956) 686-5479 www.valleytransitcompany.com www.greyhound.com
amtrakwww.amtrak.com
maJOR emPLOyeRs
edinburg Consolidated i.s.d. 3,600
McAllen independent school district 3,595
edinburg Regional Medical Center 3,000
university of texas Pan American 2,850
McAllen Medical Center 2,800
Hidalgo County 2,211
Mission Consolidated i.s.d. 2,140
City of McAllen 1,801
Columbia Rio Grande Regional Hospital 975
south texas College 811
22 mcallen imaGesmCallen.Com 23
The Water Walk subdivision was designed by acclaimed film director and mcallen native Catherine hardwicke.
imaGesmCallen.Com 25 24 mcallen
it’s always a good day in the neighborhood when you live in one of McAllen’s most uncommon subdivisions. Known as Water Walk, the 10-acre housing development was created by Hollywood
director Catherine Hardwicke, famous for films such as 2011’s Red Riding Hood, 2008’s Twilight and 2005’s Lords of Dogtown. She designed the neighborhood during her time as an architecture student at The University of Texas at Austin in 1979, and turned it in as an assignment for a class project.
Her work didn’t only impress her professor. Her father, John B. Hardwicke Jr., thought enough of the design that he and fellow developer Tommy J. Daniel made the first phase of Catherine’s development come to life.
“Water Walk was a cotton field,” says Mike Blum, who was McAllen’s city planner when the housing project began and now lives in the development. “Now, it’s a uniquely master-planned environment that’s unlike any place in the region.”
Beautiful homes, amenitiesComposed of more than 120 Mediterranean-style
townhomes, Water Walk includes a one-acre lake with fountains and a waterfall, tennis courts, sitting areas, swimming pools and other amenities. While each home is unique, they all are finished with white stucco and have red tile roofs.
“Words cannot do it justice,” says resident Elvie Davis, who serves as secretary of the Water Walk Board of Directors. Davis also created the Water Walk website, which she continues to manage and maintain.
“It was an instant legend, the desirable place to live, the new cool neighborhood,” Davis says. “I recall driving by and looking at this phenomenal place, and fantasizing about living here.”
Convenient, safe LocationDavis says she enjoys the neighborhood’s “zen-like
ambiance,” an aspect that appeals to many residents, but Water Walk is also located near north McAllen’s thriving shopping, business and entertainment districts. Residents enjoy a feeling of safety and security inside the development.
“Everybody kind of watches out for one another,” Blum says. “It’s not gated, but it is a secure environment.”
Famously desirableOnce only an idea on paper, Catherine Hardwicke’s
college masterpiece is now one of McAllen’s most popular neighborhoods that continues to draw the attention of area residents and visitors alike.
“It’s like a work of art that’s also a residential haven for those of us living here,” Davis says. “It’s a creative design brought to life by a young artist and her family, born and raised here.”
LOng-sTandIng neIghBORhOOd amOng mOvIe dIReCTOR’s CRedITs
hOmeswith Reel Inspiration
stoRy By JessICa WaLkeR | PHotoGRAPHy By BRIan mCCORd
imaGesmCallen.Com 25
Local flavor
With over 600 eateries within the city limits,
the diversity of the local flavor in McAllen is a real perk for visitors. from upscale dining delicacies to exotic indian, Mediterranean, thai and korean cuisine, McAllen offers a variety to please every palate.
tex-mexkoko’s Mexican Restaurant,
created by Albert and Jorge suarez, is a local legend in the McAllen area. koko’s original downtown location was a “hole in the wall” that could only accommodate ten tables. despite its diminutive size, by 2004 koko’s had become so successful that the suarez brothers were able to move it to its current uptown location. With this new site, koko’s is now able to provide catering services and a more upscale atmosphere.
Fine dining and international cuisine
Capellini’s italian Restaurant is an authentic, upscale presentation
of an italian eatery. in addition to an ample wine selection, Capellini’s features such signature dishes as salmone affumicato, fettuccine capellini and fusilli al pesto genovese.
kohnami Restaurant and sake Bar is a refreshing change of pace from common dining establishments. kohnami offers high-quality seafood in both traditional and custom-created preparations, as well as a bountiful selection of sakes and wines and a full-service cocktail bar.
Bayou Grill brings a taste of Louisiana spice to McAllen. Bayou Grill serves items like po’boy sandwiches, oysters, crab cakes, gumbo, crawfish salad and fried pickles. However, Bayou Grill’s true value lies in its specialty items like its bayou chicken and voodoo shrimp, its blackened mahi-mahi florentine and crawfish etouffee.
classic steakhousesanta fe steakhouse
and Cantina represents the finest tradition of American
tastefully defy conventionsdininG ranGes From GloBal Cuisine to ClassiC steaKhouses
Capellini con Gamberi allo Zafferano served at Capellini ristorante Galleria in mcallenB
RiA
n M
cC
oR
d
steakhouses. While santa fe features live entertainment and a stylish, upscale atmosphere, its true passion lies in its finely cut meats and seafood. to complement these culinary favorites, santa fe offers a massive wine list and a diverse menu that features such unique items as quail, chicken zia and filet oscar.
Fresh and organic oFFerings
for more than 30 years, klement’s Grove has been growing and selling its own unique brand of citrus, which now includes more than 20 varieties of fruit such as grapefruit, oranges, tangerines, tangelos, kumquats and more.
Bell’s farm to Market brings freshly grown items like navel oranges, texas pecans, avocados, texas supersweet onions, unusual jams, jellies and other condiments to market. open winter and spring, Bell’s is also known for its freshly squeezed fruit juices available by the gallon.
the farmer’s Market at Alhambra is McAllen’s source for the freshest local, sustainable organic meats and produce. the farmer’s market provides the unique experience of being able to speak with and befriend the very people who produce the meats and produce that are sold.
– Braxton Shoop
26 mcallen
e xplore McAllen’s artsy side with a quick
look at all it has to offer – theater, festivals,
concerts, museums and more. neighboring the
u.s.-Mexico border, this progressive city offers
some of the best cultural activities in the state.
entertainment in mcallenMcAllen’s downtown 17th street entertainment
district is filled with lounges, restaurants, nightclubs
and more. Located at its center is the historic Cine el
Rey theater, which opened in 1947 and operated
for 40 years before functioning as it does today as a
live music and performance venue which also screens
spanish and english language independent features.
McAllen’s diverse culture influences much of the
music performed by the valley symphony orchestra
& Chorale, which was established in 1952 – with the
Chorale joining later in 1984. similarly, the south
texas Lyric opera offers a yearly slate of productions
and an annual opera gala, and Rio Grande valley
Broadway brings the most popular shows to town.
Visual arts and FestiValsthe international Museum of Art & science
promotes a deeper appreciation for the arts and
sciences through its exhibitions, cultural events and
educational programs. McAllen Art Walk, a self-guided
tour, provides a route to explore the many art galleries
and venues in one of the most historic parts of the
city. it’s held every first friday september through
May and is free to the public. in october, the
Chamber presents the Green Living festival to
encourage environmentally friendly lifestyles. then,
two months later, folks enjoy Candlelight Posada,
offering food booths, luminaries, a parade, live
entertainment, caroling and a live nativity scene
the first friday and saturday nights in december.
chamber arts eVentsthe McAllen Chamber of Commerce shows
its love for the arts by managing the McAllen
Arts Council, which publishes a quarterly magazine,
produces an annual fine arts exhibition and offers
grants to local artists. the Chamber also offers
the free outdoor music concert series, manages
the Creative incubator for emerging artists and
coordinates the Public Art Committee programs.
historic sitesthe Museum of south texas History and
McAllen Heritage Center are just two locations to
learn about the rich history of this bicultural city.
Quinta Mazatlan, a 1930s hacienda, embodies
the spanish Colonial Revival architecture of arches,
adobe and beams, and provides an intimate look
into south texas history. set in formal tropical
landscaping‚ this 10,000-square-foot mansion sits
on a 15-acre plot hosting a mix of native and exotic
plants and wildlife, making up McAllen’s wing of the
popular World Birding Center. – Tiffany Williams
celebrating culture all yearmcallen is Full oF arts, Festivals and historiC attraCtions
Arts & Culture
valley symphony orchestra & Chorale
imaGesmCallen.Com 27
mcAllen is home to major health-care facilities
that offer a wide range of services. in addition
to traditional hospitals, McAllen has its own heart
hospital and surgical centers, all of which aim to
provide excellent care to area patients.
south texas health system Facilities in the area
opening its doors in 1919, McAllen Medical Center
serves as the valley’s longest-operating health-care
facility. it provides 441 beds and a staff of more
than 400 physicians representing more than 50
medical specialties.
McAllen Medical Center has a Level iii trauma
Center for specialized treatments, and also provides
a variety of services ranging from a birthing center
to diabetes management to endocrinology.
McAllen Heart Hospital was the first freestanding
cardiology and cardiovascular hospital built in the
united states, having opened in 1996. its sole
purpose is to care for patients who have heart-
related issues and illnesses. the 60-bed hospital
provides inpatient and outpatient services, a
24-hour emergency Center, and services such
as diagnosis and treatment, heart catheterization,
surgery and education. in 2009, the society of
Chest Pain Centers Accreditation Review Committee
granted the hospital Cycle ii Chest Pain Center
Accreditation with Percutaneous Coronary
interventions (PCi), making it one of only two
hospitals in the Rio Grande valley to be awarded
the designation.
HealthGrades has awarded both McAllen
Medical Center and McAllen Heart Hospital with
several awards, including the distinguished Hospital
Award for Clinical excellence in 2011. HealthGrades
also has ranked McAllen Heart Hospital no. 1 in texas
for overall Cardiac Care and Cardiac surgery from
2007 through 2011.
rio grande regional hosPitalRio Grande Regional Hospital has a keen focus
on children and is the first and only hospital in
the area with a Pediatric Heart Program. With 56
beds, a pediatric iCu and a Pediatric step-down
unit, the Children’s Medical Center at the hospital
healthy livingmCallen hospitals, mediCal Centers FoCus on CarinG For the Community
Health & WellnessHealth & Wellness
PHotos By BRiAn McCoRd
28 mcallen imaGesmCallen.Com 29
Improving Your
Health, Improving Your
Lifestyle.
(956) 618-4414Orange Medical Center • 1421-A N. 2nd St. • McAllen, TX 78501
No Referrals Needed • Night Clinic Open From 5-10 p.m.No Appointment Necessary
Accepting Most Medicaid Star Programs, Private Insurance & Workers’ Compensation
Miguel A. Hernandez, M.D. • Salvador J. Mendez, M.D. Certified by the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery
and Salvador Mendez, PA-C
also undertakes procedures such as
cochlear implants and electrophysiology.
the hospital itself opened in 1982 and is well
known for patient safety and clinical excellence.
its 320-bed, full-service acute care medical facility
has more than 500 physicians representing over
35 specialties, and serves as the only area
American diabetes Association accredited
diabetes Management Center.
doctors hosPital at renaissance
Another medical center serving McAllen is the
506-bed doctors Hospital at Renaissance. since
opening its doors in 1997 as an outpatient surgical
center, the hospital has grown into a complete
acute care facility. today, it provides a full range
of medical and surgical services, including
cardiology, neurosurgery, endocrinology, as well
as providing a Pediatric Medical tower that offers
pediatric oncology and pediatric iCu services.
– Tiffany Williams
28 mcallen imaGesmCallen.Com 29
weather generally stays in the 70s in the coldest
months, making it a perfect place for winter golfing.
hiking and bikingMcAllen residents enjoy plenty of hiking and
biking trails on the east and west sides of town,
and visiting cyclists are welcomed to meet up
with team McAllen Cycling, a bike club that’s
been in the city for more than 25 years.
Parksthe McAllen Parks & Recreation department
currently oversees 25 city parks. Ranging from
historic parks established in the early 1900s to
more modern facilities, there is a wide array of
outdoor facilities for the whole family.
McAllen’s oldest, Archer Park, opened in 1912.
serving as a historic landmark in the city, it also plays
host to many of the city’s annual special events,
including the Candlelight Posada and shakespeare
in the Park. McAllen’s largest city park is springfest
Park, which hosts many special city events and is
home to McAllen’s Winter Polo League from January
through March. – Carson O’Shoney
sports & Recreation
O ffering a wide selection of city parks, golf
courses and sports teams, McAllen residents
and visitors have many choices of things to do in
their spare time.
sPectator sPortssports fans in the Rio Grande valley have
plenty to cheer for, with minor league or semi-
pro basketball, football, baseball, hockey and
soccer teams.
Hockey fans have cheered on the semi-
professional Central Hockey League Rio Grande
valley killer Bees since 2003. those looking to skate
themselves can stay cool at the Rio Grande valley
ice Center, which offers ice skating, hockey,
broomball and more.
Basketball fans have the Rio Grande valley vipers
to root for. founded in 2007, the vipers are currently
associated with the Houston Rockets in the nBA’s
development League. Both the vipers and the killer
Bees play their home games in state farm Arena.
the Rio Grande valley Bravos have been the
valley’s pro soccer team since 2008. Playing in
the usL Premier development League, the Bravos
have already drawn a large following in the region.
the area is also home to two baseball teams:
the McAllen thunder, a member of the independent
professional north American League, and the
united League’s edinburg Roadrunners.
stock-car racing fans can also get their fix
in McAllen at the Rio Grande speedway.
great PriVate & Public golFWith nearly 20 courses in the McAllen area,
golf is a popular attraction in the Rio Grande valley.
one of the most notable courses in the area is
the Palm view Golf Course, a public course with
a private feel. With rolling fairways and Bermuda
rough mounds, the course is an often used location
for professional and amateur tournaments, having
hosted LPGA tournaments and Amateur Golf
Championships.
McAllen Country Club gives players at all skill
levels a challenge, and also offers a swimming pool
and tennis courts for its members. other courses
surround the city, including the Club at Cimarron.
every golf course in the area is constantly bustling
week in and week out, especially in the winter, when
“Winter texans” come to the Rio Grande valley. the
ready, set, Playsports teams, GolF Courses & parKs maKe BeinG aCtive easy
rio Grande valley Killer Bees PH
ot
o C
ou
Rt
es
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30 mcallen 30 mcallen
education in McAllen is defined by excellent
options. from elementary school through
college, McAllen boasts numerous institutions
designed to prepare students for success.
Public schoolsMcAllen independent school district is composed
of three high schools, seven middle schools and
20 elementary schools. Among these schools, the
district offers an advanced placement college-level
curriculum and a dual-enrollment program for
students who can obtain high school and college
credit simultaneously. the district also features an
international Baccalaureate program that provides
students with an advanced curriculum geared
toward global standards.
idea academyideA Academy is an innovative institution that
offers a fully scaled curriculum from kindergarten
through high school. to prepare its students to be
collegiate scholars, ideA provides international
Baccalaureate curriculum as well as the Road to
College curriculum, which begins in the sixth grade.
south texas collegesouth texas College, with over 30,000 students,
offers numerous associate and bachelor’s degree
programs and professional certifications in more
than 40 areas. for students who work full time,
south texas College also offers online degree
courses in numerous subjects.
uniVersity oF texas-Pan americanuniversity of texas-Pan American offers
numerous undergraduate degrees, more than 50 master’s degrees, and three doctoral degrees. utPA has several accreditations from organizations like the Commission for Collegiate nursing, the examining Board of nurse examiners for the state of texas and the engineering Accreditation Commission of the Accreditation Board for engineering and technology.
– Braxton Shoop
set for successmcallen provides outstandinG options For ColleGe preparation
education
Je
ff
Ad
kin
s
south texas College
imaGesmCallen.Com 31
TIme zOne
Central
CLImaTe OveRvIeW
McAllen has a semi-tropical
climate, with an average
annual temperature of
74 degrees. its mild winters
and warm summers make
it a perfect destination for
both tourists and retirees.
49 Fwinter low temperature
96 Fsummer high temperature
23”annual rain Fall (vs. national average annual rain Fall of 37”)
sIze In squaRe mILes
46.7COsT OF LIvIng
$44,612median household income
$103,321median home price
$600median rent for a two-Bedroom apartment
hOusehOLd
InFORmaTIOn
129,877total City population
29median resident age
54%married
35.27%age 19 and under
47.37%age 20-54
17.36%age 55 and over
TRansPORTaTIOn
17 minutesmedian travel time to work
COmmunITy OveRvIeWMcAllen is an area with a burgeoning arts culture. the city
is known statewide for the quality and quantity of its artists.
visit ouradvertisersFamily Physicians Clinicwww.familyphysiciansclinic.com
Magic Valley Electric Cooperativewww.magicvalley.coop
McAllen Bone & Joint Clinic PAMcAllen Country Clubwww.mcallencountryclub.com
McAllen Independent School Districtwww.mcallenisd.org
McAllen International Airportwww.mcallenairport.com
South Texas Health Systemwww.southtexashealthsystem.com
Springhill Suites by Marriottwww.marriott.com/MFEMA
Valley International Airportwww.flythevalley.com
COmmunITy PROFILe
32 mcallen
imaGesmCallen.Com 33
through the Lens
i have shot photos for McAllen
many times over the past eight
years. the first year i visited, i
saw this neon cowboy and really
wanted to shoot it right at dusk.
After the fates conspired against
me in getting the shot two visits
in a row, you better believe the
next time that i went i got the
shot. And here it is!
From our Photo blog: mcallen
Posted By Antony BosHieR
more online See more favorite photos and read the stories behind the shots at throughthelensjci.com.
now that you’ve experienced McAllen through our photos, see it through the eyes of our photographers. visit throughthelensjci.com to view our exclusive photographers’ blog documenting what all went in to capturing those perfect moments.
get the story behind the Photo
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