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Edinburg’s pro-business policies, safe environment promoted by Edinburg Economic Development Corporation to recruit top Mexican investors

Edinburg's pro-business policies, safe environment promoted by Edinburg Economic Development Corporation to recruit top Mexican investors - Titans of the Texas Legislature

The Texas Secretary of State on Thursday, September 6, certified that R.D. "Bobby" Guerra, D-Sharyland, is declared elected as the new state representative for House District 41 and will serve the unexpired term of former Rep. Verónica Gonzáles, D-McAllen, which ends in mid-January 2013. Guerra, the Democratic Party nominee who also is seeking a full two-year term in the November 6 general election, was the only candidate to file for the special election to fill the unexpired term for District 41, which includes southwest Edinburg, north, central, southeast and portions of west McAllen, Palmhurst, Sharyland, Alton, and a portion of northwest Pharr. Guerra, an attorney, is facing Miriam Martínez, R-Edinburg, a small business owner and international journalist, in the November 6 general election for the new two-year term that begins in mid-January 2013. All state representatives serve two-year terms. "Being declared state representative for District 41 to serve the unexpired term in the Texas House is a tremendous honor for me. I am truly grateful for the overwhelming community support I have received for the privilege of wanting me to represent our Valley families," said Guerra. See story later in this posting.

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Edinburg's pro-business policies, safe environment promoted by Edinburg Economic Development Corporation to recruit top Mexican investors - Titans of the Texas Legislature

The appointment of Democrat Bobby Guerra to finish the final months of former Rep. Verónica Gonzáles’ term in the Texas House of Representative has little value for South Texans, says Miriam Martínez, the Republican nominee for House District 41. The Texas Secretary of State on Thursday, September 6, certified that R.D. "Bobby" Guerra, D-Sharyland, is declared elected as the new state representative for House District 41 and will finish out the final months of Gonzáles’ term, which ends in mid-January 2013. Guerra was the only person to file paperwork with the Texas Secretary of State to complete the remaining portion of Gonzáles’ term, which became vacant on June 30, when Gonzáles, a Democrat, retired from the Texas House of Representatives in order to take a $170,000-a-year job with the University of Texas-Pan American. "I remain on the general election ballot, and that is what is most important," said Martínez, R-Edinburg. House District 41 includes southwest Edinburg, north, central, southeast and portions of west McAllen, Palmhurst, Sharyland, Alton, and a portion of northwest Pharr. See story later in this posting.

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Edinburg's pro-business policies, safe environment promoted by Edinburg Economic Development Corporation to recruit top Mexican investors - Titans of the Texas Legislature

The Boys & Girls Clubs of Edinburg RGV on Tuesday, September 4, received a city proclamation recognizing Saturday, September 15, as Boys & Girls Clubs Day for Kids. BGC Day for Kids is an annual event highlighting the value of meaningful time between caring adults and children. This year, in celebration of Boys & Girls Clubs Day for Kids, The Boys & Girls Clubs of Edinburg RGV  is partnering with H-E-B and the Edinburg Rotary Club to host a family cooking demonstration on Friday, September 21, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at The Legacy Center@Boys & Girls Clubs of Edinburg RGV, located at 702 Cullen Street (near the intersection of Rogers Road and U.S. Expressway 281). Featured during the city ceremony on September 4 are, front row, from left: Carrie Gutiérrez, Devin López, Alex Castillo, Carina Espinoza, and Abigail González. Second row, from left: Dazzrae López, Jaime Vega, Amaya Hernández, Ashley Garza, Miguel Espinoza, and Araceli Valencia, Program Supervisor, Boys & Girls Clubs Edinburg RGV. Third row, from left: Armando Chapa, Rotarian; Beverly Land, Rotarian; and Sabrina Walker-Hernández, Chief Operating Officer, Boys & Girls Clubs of Edinburg RGV. Back row, from left: Mayor Pro Tem Agustín "Gus" García; Eddie Villanueva, Members, Board of Directors, Boys & Girls Clubs of Edinburg RGV; Councilmember Elías Longoria, Jr.; Mayor Richard García; Councilmember Homer Jasso, Jr.; Councilmember J.R. Betancourt; and Michael Le Coste, Member, Board of Directors, Boys & Girls Clubs of Edinburg RGV.

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Edinburg's pro-business policies, safe environment promoted by Edinburg Economic Development Corporation to recruit top Mexican investors - Titans of the Texas Legislature

U.S. Expressway 281, which is the main transportation corridor linking the Valley and Mexico to major cities in Texas and beyond – plus the proactive approach by Edinburg’s city leadership in helping existing and prospective businesses – were among the key messages delivered on Wednesday, September 5, during the first annual International Business and Franchise Investment Expo. The event, hosted by the Edinburg Economic Development Corporation, drew more than 160 local, state and Mexican business, community and government leaders to the gathering, held at the Edinburg Conference Center at Renaissance. Among the speakers and organizers of the expo were, from left: Adrian A. Arriaga, CCIM, CIPS, broker/owner of AAA Real Estate and Investments; Guillermo Canedo, who leads the City of Edinburg’s office in Monterrey, Mexico; Nelda T. Ramírez, Executive Director, Edinburg Economic Development Corporation; Letty Reyes, Project Manager, Edinburg Economic Development Corporation; Juan R. López, A.I.C.P., Director of Planning and Zoning, City of Edinburg; César Cepeda, FranNet; and Pablo Cerda, Building Official, City of Edinburg. See lead story later in this posting.

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Edinburg's pro-business policies, safe environment promoted by Edinburg Economic Development Corporation to recruit top Mexican investors - Titans of the Texas Legislature

Sabrina Walker-Hernández, featured center, Chief Professional Officer for The Boys & Girls Clubs of Edinburg RGV, was recently honored as the 2012 Inspiration Award Winner for many achievements on behalf of the local chapter. The Inspiration Award, announced on Monday, September 3, is given to an outstanding professional whose leadership serves as an inspiration and catalyst resulting in transformational change with the Boys & Girls Clubs movement. Featured, from left: Teresa Walch of Dallas, the Regional Vice President at Boys & Girls Clubs of America; Sabrina Walker-Hernández, CFO, The Boys and Girls Clubs of Edinburg RGV; and Lorraine Orr of Atlanta, Senior Vice President of Field Services for Boys and Girls Clubs of America. See story later in this posting.

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Edinburg's pro-business policies, safe environment promoted by Edinburg Economic Development Corporation to recruit top Mexican investors - Titans of the Texas Legislature

On Thursday, October 4, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., South Texas Health System and the Edinburg Chamber of Commerce Public Affairs Committee will present a Public Affairs Luncheon featuring Jennifer Garza, Chief Executive Officer for Edinburg Regional Medical Center/Edinburg Children’s Hospital. The cost to attend the luncheon is $12 per person or $125 for a table of 8, and includes a hot lunch, beverage and dessert.  The luncheon will take place at The Echo Hotel and Conference Center, located on 1903 South Closner in Edinburg. Featured promoting the upcoming luncheon are, seated from left: Catherine Domian, Chief Nursing Officer, Edinburg Regional Medical Center; Elva Jackson Garza, Vice President/Marketing Manager, Edwards Abstract & Title Company; Jennifer Garza, Chief Executive Officer, Edinburg Regional Medical Center; Lisa Killion, Marketing Executive, South Texas Health System; and Letty González, President, Edinburg Chamber President. Standing, from left: Imelda Rodríguez, Director of Tourism, Edinburg Convention and Visitors Bureau; Jacob De León, Funeral Director, Memorial Funeral Home; Martín Rivas, Membership Director, Edinburg Chamber of Commerce; Michael LaCoste, Associate Administrator, Edinburg Regional Medical Center; and Jason Chang, Chief Operating Officer, Edinburg Regional Medical Center. For more information on this event or to make a reservation please call the Edinburg Chamber of Commerce at 956/383-4974.

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Edinburg's pro-business policies, safe environment promoted by Edinburg Economic Development Corporation to recruit top Mexican investors - Titans of the Texas Legislature

On Wednesday, September 26, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. the Edinburg Chamber of Commerce and the Dustin Michael Sekula Memorial Library will feature art from beginners to practicing professionals at the Historic Train Depot, located at 602 W. University Drive. More than a dozen artists will display their art work made possible through instructional classes supported by Friends of the Edinburg Library. There is no admission charge and the artwork will be available for sale. For more information on this event or to RSVP by September 25, individuals may call the Edinburg Chamber of Commerce at 956/383-4974. Promoting the event are students from the 2012 Summer Art classes, from left: Letty Leija; Imelda Canales; Ramón Vela; Nelly Villarreal; and Zack Sáenz.

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Edinburg's pro-business policies, safe environment promoted by Edinburg Economic Development Corporation to recruit top Mexican investors - Titans of the Texas Legislature

The McAllen Chamber of Commerce and FECANACO Tamaulipas on Thursday, September 27, will host the Bi-National Reunion of Chambers of Commerce Meeting at the McAllen Chamber of Commerce, located at 1200 Ash Avenue. The meeting will feature local and regional leaders of chambers of commerce from the Rio Grande Valley and Tamaulipas. During the gathering, important issues that are common to chambers of commerce on both sides of the border will be addressed. Featured, from left: Luis Cantú, Vice President of International Business, McAllen Chamber of Commerce, and Alma Ortega-Johnson, Member, Board of Directors, McAllen Chamber of Commerce. See story later in this posting.

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Edinburg's pro-business policies, safe environment promoted by Edinburg Economic Development Corporation to recruit top Mexican investors - Titans of the Texas Legislature

The Rio Grande Valley Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and New York Life will celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with a fiesta – which is free and open to the public – on Tuesday, September 25, from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Nuevo Santander Gallery, 717 North Main Street in McAllen. Each year, Americans observe National Hispanic Heritage Month from September 15 to October 15, by celebrating the histories, cultures and contributions of American citizens whose ancestors came from Spain, México, the Caribbean and Central and South America. The observation started in 1968 as Hispanic Heritage Week under President Lyndon Johnson and was expanded by President Ronald Reagan in 1988 to cover a 30-day period starting on September 15 and ending on October 15. It was enacted into law on August 17, 1988, on the approval of Public Law 100-402. The day of September 15 is significant because it is the anniversary of independence for Latin American countries Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua. In addition, México and Chile celebrate their independence days on September 16 and September18, respectively. Also, Columbus Day or Día de la Raza, which is October 12, falls within this 30 day period. Featured helping prepare for the local fiesta are, front row, from left: Nancy Pascual, Michelle Guajardo, Rhonda Zavala, Connie Hernández, and Cynthia Sakulenzki, President and CEO for the RGV Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. Back row, from left, are: Gus Pascual, Arlene Villarreal, Gilbert Pérez, Noemi Hernández, Bertha Z. García, and James Burmane. More information on the event and the RGV Hispanic Chamber of Commerce is available by calling 956/928-0060.

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Ryan Evans, McAllen High School basketball star, commits with Schreiner University in Kerrville

Ryan Evans, McAllen High School basketball star, commits with Schreiner University in Kerrville - Titans of the Texas Legislature

Ryan Evans, a 6’6" star forward for McAllen High School’s powerhouse Class 5-A basketball team – which earlier this year finished ranked 14th best in Texas – has proven when it comes to hitting the boards on the hardwood and hitting the books in the classroom, his results are always the same: he delivers like a champion. During a ceremony in the McHi gymnasium on Tuesday, June 1, Evans, committed to play NCAA Division III basketball for Schreiner University in Kerrville, a renowned liberal arts institution whose sterling reputation includes being named one of the best colleges in the nation by U.S. News and World Report. Evans, who helped McAllen earn championships at the district, bi-district, area, regional quarterfinals, and regional semi-final levels three consecutive years, also earned a place on the Texas Association of Basketball Coaches Academic All-State Team. He pulled great numbers in his chosen sport, averaging 13.4 points and 7.1 rebounds per game, while shooting for the stars in the classroom, making the National Honor Society and maintaining a 3.91 grade point average. "I want to congratulate Ryan and his family for his accomplishments," said Bulldogs Basketball Head Coach Roy Swift. "He has been a great player to have in our program for four years. He has a great attitude to go along with his height and his size. He came to school every day, and every day for us for practice, willing to work hard. There’s a tremendous upside for Ryan, and I am just proud of him." Featured, from left: Evans’ grandmother, Marylin Vandever; his brother, Drew; his mother, Dana; Ryan Evans; his father, Robert; and his coach at McHi, Roy Swift. See lead story in this posting. 

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Ryan Evans, McAllen High School basketball star, commits with Schreiner University in Kerrville - Titans of the Texas Legislature

With knowledge that June 1 was the official start date of the 2010 Hurricane Season, Hidalgo County leaders, including Hidalgo County Judge René  A. Ramírez, whose broadcast image is featured here on Tuesday, May 18, during the Hurricane Preparedness Conference hosted by the City of McAllen, continues to promote preparedness and inform area communities of several upcoming activities and training. Ramírez said he will continue to promote the Valley’s unified approach to disaster response, should Hidalgo County or the Rio Grande Valley at large be impacted by a storm this season. “Our approach to getting ready for a disaster is to be proactive. Each year, we build upon lessons learned. From Hurricane Dolly (in July 2008), we learned about the effect that lack of electricity could have on our residents and our facilities, the magnitude that flooding, even from a Category 1 storm, can have on lives and property — especially in our rural low-lying areas — and we definitely learned tips about setting up shelters and points of distribution for food and ice,” Ramírez said. “We have taken steps to improve our infrastructure, and we will continue to reach out to the public so they can be as prepared as possible. We prepare for the unexpected.” See story later in this posting.   

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Ryan Evans, McAllen High School basketball star, commits with Schreiner University in Kerrville - Titans of the Texas Legislature

For the second consecutive year, Edinburg FOOTCARE Doctor, owned by Dr. David H. Fridie, II, DPM (Doctor of Podiatric Medicine) and his wife, Dr. Beverly Ashley-Fridie, has been selected for the 2010 Best of Edinburg Award in the podiatrist category by the U.S. Commerce Association (USCA). The USCA "Best of Local Business" Award Program recognizes outstanding local businesses throughout the country. Each year, the USCA identifies companies that they believe have achieved exceptional marketing success in their local community and business category. These are local companies that enhance the positive image of small business through service to their customers and community. Nationwide, only one in 70 (1.4%) 2010 Award recipients qualified as two-time Award Winners. Edinburg FOOTCARE Doctor is located at 2808 Fountain Plaza Blvd in Edinburg. See story later in this posting. 

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Ryan Evans, McAllen High School basketball star, commits with Schreiner University in Kerrville - Titans of the Texas Legislature

Victor Castillo, featured left, representing the McAllen Chamber of Commerce, and Sgt. Kenneth Kuykendall with the Texas Army National Guard, on Tuesday, June 8, announced that the Texas Army National Guard will hold the 2011 Yellow Ribbon Conference next January at the McAllen Convention Center. The two-day event will draw more than 1,000 persons and result in about 500 room lodgings for hotels who are members of the McAllen Chamber of Commerce. The legislatively-mandated Yellow Ribbon program provides information, services, referrals and proactive outreach programs to service members of the National Guard and Reserves and their families through all phases of the deployment cycle. The intent of the program is to prepare and sustain Texas military personnel and their families prior and during deployment, and then help reintegrate those veterans with their families, communities and employers upon re-deployment or release from active duty. See story later in this posting. 

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Ryan Evans, McAllen High School basketball star, commits with Schreiner University in Kerrville - Titans of the Texas Legislature

As members of the Boys & Girls Clubs nationally are embarking on their next phase of life following their high school graduation, a number are not considering college. When asked why, the most frequent response is the lack of money. The Boys & Girls Clubs of Edinburg RGV, in partnership with Boys & Girls Clubs of America and ConocoPhillips, has for the last 14 years addressed this obstacle for a number of their club members through the ConocoPhillips Scholarship Program. The local organization has announced there are three local recipients of this year’s ConocoPhillips Scholarship, featured, from left: George Bailey, Noé González and Christopher Vela of Edinburg High School. Each will be receiving a maximum of $3,000 per semester for a potential of up to $96,000. The ConocoPhillips scholarship is a partnership between the Boys & Girls Club of America and the ConocoPhillips Petroleum Company. In order to eligible for this scholarship the member must have been a senior with a “B” average and be a member of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Edinburg RGV for at least two years. See story later in this posting. 

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Ryan Evans, McAllen High School basketball star, commits with Schreiner University in Kerrville - Titans of the Texas Legislature

The 5th Annual Texas Cook’em: High Steaks in Edinburg, set for Saturday, July 3 at the Edinburg Municipal Park, will feature activities that include more than just mouth-watering, award-winning barbeque competition.  The Edinburg World Birding Center will have a large presence in the hands-on Family Fun Zone along with the Dustin Michael Sekula Memorial Library, with plenty of games and exciting things to do for children of all ages – all free of charge. In conjunction with Texas Cook’em, the World Birding Center will be provide free tours of the facility, which is located on the same grounds. Those tours will be held at 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. Later in the evening, live music will be provided by Elida Reyna, Zereno, Texas Heat and LA MAFIA.  A major fireworks display will kick off at 9:15 p.m. Texas Cook’em: High Steaks in Edinburg is part of a national competition, sanctioned by the International Barbeque Cookers Associations, that draws teams from throughout the country who compete for cash prizes for preparing the best barbeque in the following categories: T-bone steak; Chicken; Pork Spare Ribs; and Brisket. New to the cooking categories this year will be “Apple Pie”.  Anyone who wants to compete in the cooking extravaganza may call the Edinburg Chamber of Commerce at 956/383-4974, or log on to http://www.Edinburg.com, for a complete set of rules and regulations.  

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Ryan Evans, McAllen High School basketball star, commits with Schreiner University in Kerrville - Titans of the Texas Legislature

Sen. Juan "Chuy" Hinojosa, D-McAllen, praises Rep. Verónica Gonzáles (fifth from right) on Thursday, June 3, during a fashion style political campaign fundraiser, which drew more than a dozen fellow legislators and hundreds of her supporters. The event, which was hosted in Mission by her campaign, raised at least $65,000. "Everybody thinks this is a Republican district, but it isn’t. It is a Democratic district," the state senator proclaimed. "The Republicans keep running and running and get nowhere, because Veronica cannot be beaten. Verónica is one of the most influential legislators here in South Texas, and that’s why I’m voting for her." Gonzáles, an attorney whose House District 41 includes much of McAllen, southwest Edinburg and east Mission, is facing a challenge in November from McAllen businesswoman Rebecca Cervera, who is also from McAllen. Featured, from left: Rep. Lon Burnam, D-Ft. Worth; Rep. Tara Ríos Ybarra, D-South Padre Island; Rep. Joseph E. Moody, D-El Paso; Sen. Juan "Chuy" Hinojosa, D-McAllen; Rep. Marc Veasey, D-Ft. Worth; Rep. Verónica Gonzáles, D-McAllen; Rep. Ryan Guillen, D-Rio Grande City; Rep. Hubert Vo, D-Houston; Rep. Garnett Coleman, D-Houston; and Rep. Barbara Mallory Caraway, D-Dallas. See story later in this posting.   

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