Brownsville, TX 2014 Community Profile and Resource Guide by Tivoli Design + Media Group

SECTION TITLE

1 SECTION TITLE www.brownsvillechamber.com

TABLE OF CONTENTS

CommunityLink.com

1 800-455-5600

production vp of production operations Amanda White managing editor Jay Nehrkorn copywriting Mark Allen Dana Hinders Wayne Waters David Webb copy editor Laura Wilcoxen

photography Rigo Davila Eye on Photography Juan Carlos Garza lead design Josh Mueller website creation & support Josh Chandler director of media purchasing Diana Vaughn

business development director of business development George Prudhomme

business development manager Bonnie Ebers

vp of sales operations & client care Debbie Moss

customer service director Kathy Risley

TABLE OF CONTENTS WELCOME / ABOUT THE CHAMBER Advocacy, Collaborative Leadership & Business-Building Initiatives..................................... 6 Brownsville Regional Map................................................................................................... 7 The Brownsville Chamber of Commerce: Your Business Advocate........................................ 8

GOVERNMENT Brownsville Film Commission: Supporting Blockbusters on Budgets.................................... 9 To Protect & To Serve........................................................................................................10 Know Who to Call..............................................................................................................11

advertising ad research Mary Kopshever Mildred Walker

ad traffic Carol Smith ad design Mary Caldwell

administrative support administrative support Kathy Hagene Carol Smith

mailroom technician Melinda Bowlin

account support Terri Ahner

information technology publishing systems specialist Christopher Miller

executive leadership chairman and founder Craig Williams

ABOUT This book is published by CommunityLink and distributed through the Brownsville Chamber of Commerce. For advertising information or questions or comments about this book, contact CommunityLink at 800-455-5600 or by e-mail at info@CommunityLink.com. FOR INFORMATION Brownsville Chamber of Commerce, 1800 University Boulevard, Brownsville TX 78520, Telephone 956-542-4341, Fax 956-504-3348, info@brownsvillechamber.com, www.brownsvillechamber.com © 2014 Craig Williams Creative, Inc., 4742 Holts Prairie Road, Post Office Box 306, Pinckneyville, IL 62274-0306, 618-357-8653. All rights reserved. No portion of this book may be reproduced without the expressed written consent of the publisher.

BROWNSVILLE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

BUSINESS & INDUSTRY Brownsville Economy Is Poised for Lift-off.........................................................................12 International Trade & Transport..........................................................................................16 Steps for Operating a Business in Brownsville...................................................................18 Como operar un negocio en Brownsville...........................................................................20

HEALTH CARE Valley Baptist Medical Center............................................................................................22 Valley Regional Medical Center.........................................................................................26 Brownsville Community Health Center...............................................................................27 Driscoll Children’s Hospital...............................................................................................28 South Texas Rehabilitation Hospital...................................................................................29 Solara Hospital, Brownsville Campus................................................................................29

EDUCATION Brownsville Independent School District............................................................................30 The University of Texas at Brownsville................................................................................32 Texas Southmost College..................................................................................................34 Kaplan College.................................................................................................................35

(956) 542-2553

(956) 618-2300

(868) 812-1214

(899) 924-0142

REAL ESTATE

4 TABLE OF CONTENTS

Come Home to Brownsville...............................................................................................36

WORSHIP & COMMUNITY SERVICE Faith & Friendship in Action..............................................................................................37

DISCOVER HISTORIC BROWNSVILLE Strong History; Bright Future.............................................................................................38 Preserving Our Heritage....................................................................................................39

ARTS & CULTURE For Contemplation & Celebration......................................................................................41

WHERE THE WILD THINGS ARE Brownsville Is for the Birders.............................................................................................43 Gladys Porter Zoo.............................................................................................................44

OUTDOOR RECREATION Explore This Texas Treasure................................................................................................45

NEAR NEIGHBORS Matamoros & South Padre Island.....................................................................................48

INDEX OF ADVERTISERS & PREFERRED BUSINESS LISTINGS Thank You for Your Support...............................................................................................50

BROWNSVILLE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

WELCOME / ABOUT THE CHAMBER

ADVOCACY, COLLABORATIVE LEADERSHIP & BUSINESS-BUILDING INITIATIVES

ienvenidos a Brownsville! Brownsville is a semitropical paradise of stately palm trees, everblooming bougainvilleas, exotic birds, coastal breezes and sunshine two out of three days a year. Add to this the rich history of two countries separated by the Rio Grande River, but joined by hundreds of years of tradition, family and trade, and you have a wonderful venue to visit, live or do business. Brownsville’s population is quickly approaching 200,000 and is growing. Our sister city of Matamoros has a population in excess of 750,000, and as the seat of Cameron County, Brownsville is one of the fastest-growing areas in the United States. Community resources include city transportation, municipally owned electricity and water, religious facilities, excellent health care facilities, proximity to beaches, resort properties, retirement communities, a premier zoo, a community theatre, a fine arts museum, a children’s museum, a variety of historic sites, a sports park, and two institutions of higher education. For the business-minded, trade activity in Brownsville has been great, as the maquiladora industry has continued to experience growth. Brownsville’s international bridge crossings and the Port of Brownsville have both experienced increases. Retail activity in Brownsville has remained strong as national retailers continue to open their doors in Brownsville.

Antonio “Tony” Martinez Estela Chavez-Vasquez Dr. Rose M.Z. Gowen Ricardo Longoria, Jr. Jessica Tetreau-Kalifa Deborah Portillo John Villarreal

BROWNSVILLE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

The Brownsville Chamber of Commerce is one of the many organizations working to improve the economic vitality and the quality of life for the community. The Chamber does so by leveraging the support, talent and resources of its diverse membership. Founded in 1937, the Brownsville Chamber of Commerce is the community’s leading membership-driven advocate and champion for business. The Chamber provides advocacy, collaborative leadership and business-building initiatives that focus on critical priorities in the community. On behalf of the Brownsville Chamber of Commerce and its more than 650 members, we invite you to be a part of our growth and success. Lastly, I hope that you will support the many merchants and businesses that you will find in this publication.

Maria Hall Joiner President/CEO Brownsville Chamber of Commerce

BROWNSVILLE

REGIONAL

MAP

www.brownsvillechamber.com

WELCOME / ABOUT THE CHAMBER

THE BROWNSVILLE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE: YOUR BUSINESS ADVOCATE

s early as 1914, area businessmen assembled at various office buildings in downtown Brownsville before the association built its first office in 1927, a beautiful Spanish-style structure on E. Levee Street adjacent to the Missouri Pacific railroad passenger depot. In July 1937, a voluntary association of 39 business people officially registered the nonprofit organization known as the Brownsville Chamber of Commerce. According to the first Articles of Incorporation, “the beginning purpose of organizing a Chamber of Commerce was the power to provide and maintain suitable rooms for the conduct of its business, to acquire, preserve, and disseminate valuable business information, and to promote the interest of trade and increase the facilities of commercial transactions.” In 1966, a new structure was built on E. Elizabeth Street next to the Gateway International Bridge that to this day continues to be the home of the Chamber. A nonprofit, 501(c)6 organization primarily funded by member dues, the Brownsville Chamber of Commerce (BCOC) is the community’s leading advocate and champion for business, with a primary objective to create a climate of growth and success in our community. Since its inception, the Brownsville Chamber of Commerce has been the community’s united front and a catalyst for the improvement of the civic, economic and social welfare of Brownsville and its citizens. The Chamber helped to establish Charro Days Inc., Sombrero Fest, the Mr. Amigo Association, Leadership Brownsville, Brownsville Crime Stoppers and Healthy Communities of Brownsville and supported the creation of Texas Southmost College, the Port of Brownsville, the Brownsville/South Padre Island International Airport and the Brownsville Economic Development Council. The Chamber is the ultimate business resource and the largest, most influential business organization in Cameron County. Of its more than 650 members, 80 percent are small businesses with 25 or fewer employees. The Chamber provides leadership, volunteer programs and business-building initiatives that focus on critical priorities in the community. By leveraging the support, talent and resources of its diverse businesses and members, the Brownsville Chamber of Commerce is one of the leading organizations helping to improve economic vitality and the quality of life for the community. Membership is open to all businesses that maintain a voluntary annual dues investment. Members must also support the Chamber bylaws as well as the Member Code of Ethics.

BROWNSVILLE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

BROWNSVILLE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE PAST PRESIDENTS & CHAIRMEN 1914–1915: A. Wayne Wood

1976–1977: W.M. Stevenson

1929–1930: M.H. West

1977–1978: Tom Champion, Jr.

1930–1933: H.L. Yates

1978–1979: Sam Pate

1936–1937: A. Wayne Wood

1979–1980: Arnulfo L. Oliveira

1937–1938: Chas. A. Burton

1980–1981: Joe Hahn

1938–1939: John H. Hunter

1981–1982: Bud Richards

1939–1940: Frank L. Davis

1982–1983: Larry Jokl

1940–1941: Ken Faxon

1983–1984: Ray Lopez

1942–1943: G.W. Dennett

1984–1985: Bill Hughes

1943–1944: Robin M. Pate

1985–1986: Meme Trevino

1944–1945: Herbert L. Stokley

1986–1987: Julius Collins

1945–1946: Sam Pearl

1987–1988: Vincent L. Crixell, III

1946–1947: R.N. Curry

1988–1989: T. Mark Blakemore

1947–1948: W. Travis Jennings

1989–1990: E.A. (Gene) Gibbs

1948–1949: Ygnacio Garza

1990–1991: John Wood

1949–1950: H.R. McKay

1991–1992: C harles E. Hamilton

1950–1951: John E. Mitchell

1992–1993: Terry Ray

1951–1952: Joe Lindaberry

1993–1994: Harris Lasseigne

1952–1953: Robin M. Pate

1994–1995: Susana Reynosa

1953–1954: Floyd Davis

1995–1996: John Reed

1954–1955: Manuel A. Sanchez

1996–1997: Jim Tipton

1955–1956: F.W. Hughes

1997–1998: Frank Parker, Jr.

1956–1957: L. WM. Long

1998–1999: David Merrill

1957–1958: Jack Wiech

1999–2000: David Hughston

1958–1960: Minor Wilson

2000–2001: Arturo Farias

1960–1961: Paul V. Springman

2001–2002: Raymond Cisneros

1961–1962: Bat Corrigan, III

2002–2003: Morris Edelstein

1962–1963: Eugene S. Hurt

2003–2004: Traci Wickett

1963–1964: J.W. Hiester

2004–2005: R eba Cardenas McNair

1964–1966: Glen Herman

2005–2006: Frank E. Perez

1966–1967: A.J. Carnesi

2006–2007: Kevin Alford

1967–1968: E.B Roberts, Jr.

2007–2008: Maribel Baca

1968–1970: Irving Shepard

2008–2009: J uan Armando Recio

1970–1971: Robert E. Velten

2009–2010: Barry Goodrich

1971–1972: John Gillis, Jr.

2010–2011: Robert Berry

1972–1973: Al Cisneros

2011–2012: D. Marty Bogart

1973–1974: Bob Fowler

2012-2013: Alex Martinez

1974–1975: Bill John

2013-2014: Placido Garcia Jr.

1975–1976: J.B. Coulter

9 GOVERNMENT

BROWNSVILLE FILM COMMISSION: SUPPORTING BLOCKBUSTERS ON BUDGETS

n the southern tip of Texas, separated by the Rio Grande River from Mexico, there is a city that is gaining quite the reputation for itself among the film community as an ideal locale, with a perfect blend of atmosphere, support and affordability. That city is Brownsville, Texas, and that reputation hasn’t come easily. It has taken hard work, long hours and a steadfast dedication to Southern hospitality that would be hard to find anywhere else. The Brownsville Border Film Commission was founded in 2001 and has been directed by Peter Goodman ever since. With its unique TexMex style, Brownsville has increasingly drawn the attention of filmmakers looking to set an authentic Southwestern scene. The commission was created to assist those filmmakers in every way possible. Peter Goodman and his associates go out of their way to make sure that nothing is left undone. From helping to scout locations, to liaising with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and the Mexican Consulate, to facilitating permits, to traffic control, to everything in between, Goodman has had a passion for his work ever since he was placed at the helm of the commission. That enthusiasm and dedication is a big reason why Brownsville has gained such praise among directors, writers and film crews.

“I have nothing but applause for Brownsville,” said award-winning screenwriter Bill Wittliff, who along with director Emilio Aragon chose Brownsville as the location for A Night In Old Mexico, a film starring Robert Duvall and Jeremy Irvine. Wittliff added that their experience working in Brownsville compares to none other. “The way the community just seemed to step up was impressive. And Peter was so good about taking us around and showing us everything.”

Brownsville has attracted the notice of the television industry as well, including NBC’s hit series Friday Night Lights, centered on the Texas high school football culture, which also filmed a few episodes in the area. Indeed, the Brownsville Film Commission wasn’t created for the highdollar film market; instead, it was geared toward helping those filmmakers who have to watch every penny they spend. It is for this reason that Brownsville draws many students from well-

“I have nothing but applause for Brownsville. The way the community just seemed to step up was impressive.” Brownsville, Wittliff continued, was the ideal locale for shooting the movie, because the creators were looking for a place that had all the features of Mexico without actually being in Mexico. “It was visually the same,” said Wittliff. “Everyone felt safe, and the security people were just wonderful.”

known film schools who are searching for the perfect place to finish pieces for their master’s degrees. Goodman stands ready to guide them on the way. “Large budget or low budget, big or small, we help them all.”

www.brownsvillechamber.com

GOVERNMENT

TO PROTECT & TO SERVE Police The Brownsville Police Department employs an average of 245 officers, as well as about 87 civilian staff. The department’s professional work and community education programs are all focused on making Brownsville an even safer city in which to live, work and play. The Brownsville Police Department answered nearly 145,000 calls for service in 2012. Under the department’s watch, the city’s crime index remained steady from 2011 to 2012, with a significant decrease in assault and theft. This is in keeping with Brownsville’s 10-year trend, which shows an overall decrease in the crime rate of more than 15 percent. With the continued success of community outreach programs like Crime Stoppers, National Night Out, Citizen’s Police Academy and others, residents and officers continue to build a better and safer city for all to share.

Fire The Brownsville Fire Department, a full-scale professional fire/EMS firstresponse department, is outfitted for every emergency. With nine fire stations located throughout the city and a substation at Brownsville South Padre Island Airport, the department has a comprehensive fleet of safety equipment, including pump trucks, ladder trucks, aircraft rescue/firefighting trucks, brush fire trucks, rescue boats, medical intensive care units, several administration and prevention vehicles, and a heavy rescue truck. The department also sponsors specialized teams for emergency situations, including its hazardous-materials (HAZMAT) response team; a swift-water rescue team; certified, trained personnel in aircraft firefighting and rescue; certified and trained personnel for marine firefighting; and a dive and swift-water rescue team. The largest percentage of call responses for the department are for medical emergencies, which account for nearly 80 percent of responses annually. BROWNSVILLE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Brownsville’s 10-year trend shows an overall decrease in the crime rate of more than 15 percent.

11 GOVERNMENT

KNOW WHO TO CALL Important Brownsville Phone Numbers In case of emergency, dial 911. Area code is 956. Brownsville Chamber of Commerce.......................................................542-4341 Brownsville Community Improvement Corp............................................548-6006 Brownsville Convention & Visitors Bureau..............................................546-3721 Brownsville Department of Animal Control.............................................544-7351 Brownsville Economic Development Council..........................................541-1183 Brownsville Public Utilities Board...........................................................983-6100 Brownsville South Padre Island International Airport..............................542-4373 Brownsville Urban System (Public Transportation)..................................541-4881 Building Inspections..............................................................................550-8345 City Attorney..........................................................................................548-6011 City Auditor...........................................................................................548-6003 City Help Desk..........................................................................546-HELP (4357) City Manager.........................................................................................548-6007 City Secretary........................................................................................548-6001 Code Enforcement.................................................................................542-7511 Department of Motor Vehicles (Car License Plates)...............................544-0804 Emergency Management.......................................................................504-7405 Emergency Medical Services.................................................................541-9491 Engineering...........................................................................................541-1012 Events Center........................................................................................554-0700 Fire (non-emergency)............................................................................546-6351 Health...................................................................................................542-3437 Heritage Council....................................................................................548-6176 Human Resources.................................................................................548-6037 Library..................................................................................................548-1055 Municipal Court.....................................................................................548-7181 Parks and Recreation............................................................................542-2064 Planning and Community Development.................................................548-6150 Police (non-emergency).........................................................................548-7000 Public Health........................................................................................542-7511 Purchasing and Contracts.....................................................................548-6081 Ringgold Civic Pavilion...........................................................................547-6850 Social Security Office....................................................................866-964-6486 Traffic....................................................................................................546-1768 TX Department of Public Safety.............................................................983-1290 U.S. Postal Service................................................................................546-2411 Vehicle Registration...............................................................................544-0804 Veterans Affairs.....................................................................................544-0811 Workforce Solutions â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Cameron.............................................................548-6700

www.brownsvillechamber.com

Brownsville is the top contender for a new SpaceX launch site, to be located five miles south of Port Isabel and South Padre Island. The site would create 600 jobs and add more than $50 million to the local economy.

BUSINESS & INDUSTRY

acres of land at FM 511 and Old Alice Road. This project would help attract larger manufacturing facilities to the Brownsville area by increasing the community’s capacity for electrical power and closing the area’s infrastructure gap. Tenaska would provide roughly 150 direct, indirect and induced jobs with an average annual salary of $75,000 plus benefits. The Tenaska Brownsville Generating Station would also become become Cameron County’s largest taxpayer, surpassing the 2012 taxable value of the county’s top five taxpayers.

SpaceX Launch Site

BROWNSVILLE ECONOMY IS POISED FOR LIFT-OFF

rownsville, one of the fastest-growing cities in the United States, is uniquely positioned as a hub for international trade in the NAFTA marketplace. The city also enjoys a cost of living that is ranked consistently below the national average and a high quality of life enhanced by close proximity to South Padre Island, the premier Texas beach resort. Four bridges link Brownsville to Matamoros, and leadership cooperation between both communities offers impressive opportunities for sustainable economic growth.

Recent Brownsville Developments

Brownsville is in the running as a possible location for a SpaceX launch site. The proposed location is at the eastern end of State Highway 4, about three miles north of the Mexican border and five miles south of Port Isabel and South Padre Island. SpaceX founder Elon Musk is also considering sites in Georgia, Florida and Puerto Rico but has publicly stated that the Brownsville site is the top contender. If the community is chosen, the launch site will create 600 jobs and infuse upward of $50 million to the region. In May 2013, to show support for the venture, Gov. Rick Perry signed House Bill 2623 into law to allow the temporary closure of Boca Chica Beach for rocket launches.

Building a Skilled Workforce Brownsville’s leaders recognize that cultivating a skilled workforce is essential to the area’s economic prosperity. BEDC encourages innovative collaborations between businesses and local postsecondary institutions. “Educators need business because these are the people that provide career opportunities for their students,” said Michelle A. Lopez, BEDC’s director of public affairs and international development. “Businesses need educators because they depend on them to produce an educated, skilled workforce.” One recent example of a successful partnership was the 2012 collaboration between Carling Technologies and Texas Southmost College. Using a $115,203 Skills Development Fund grant, they provided 79 workers with 3,842 hours of technical training covering subjects such as hydraulics, pneumatics, leadership skills, lean enterprise and OSHA general industry. The training allowed Carling Technologies to experience cost savings of

Since 1992, the Brownsville Economic Development Council (BEDC) has been working to help companies establish or expand operations in the Brownsville area. The new opening of Maximus, the proposed Tenaska Brownsville Generating Station, and the possible launch site for SpaceX are three recent developments in which BEDC has played a role.

Maximus Call Center Maximus, a Virginia-based company that operates call centers assisting clients of government health and human services programs, opened its 16th Texas call center in Brownsville in August 2013. The company took over the former T-Mobile building, vacated in June 2012, as part of a consolidation of T-Mobile call centers. The new Maximus call center will bring at least 600 new jobs to the area with average wages between $11 and $12 per hour. When the company is fully operational, it’s estimated that $7.1 million in sales tax revenue will come from direct and indirect worker spending.

Tenaska Power Plant The Nebraska-based energy company Tenaska Inc. and the Brownsville Public Utilities Board want to build an 800-megawatt power plant on 270 BROWNSVILLE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Tenaska Inc. hopes to build an 800-megawatt power plant in Brownsville, similar to their Gateway Generating Station in Rusk County, Texas (shown here). The project would increase the community’s capacity for electrical power and provide roughly 150 direct, indirect and induced jobs.

Convergys: A Brownsville Success Story When Brownsville leaders were working to recruit the new Maximus Call Center, they had a unique ace up their sleeves: the longtime presence of Convergys, demonstrating the community had the skilled workforce and infrastructure to support a high-volume call center. Focused on helping companies find new ways to enhance the value of their customer relationships and deliver consistent customer experiences, Convergys has been a leader in customer management for more than 30 years. Convergys serves a variety of companies, including over half of the top 50 Fortune 500 companies. The company opened its Brownsville center in 1999 and has enjoyed stellar success and expansion, growing by more than 200 employees in 2012 to its current total of more than 600. ‘’Convergys is proud to have been an active member of the Brownsville community for the past 14 years,’’ said Norma Silva, senior operations manager. ‘’During that time we have grown along with the city, and want to recognize every one of our talented employees for the difference they make for Convergys and the city of Brownsville every day.’’

SUPPORTING SMALL BUSINESSES

arger companies may attract the most media attention, but the Chamber and the Brownsville Economic Development Council recognize that small businesses also play a key role in helping the community thrive. Through the Business Retention and Expansion Program, BEDC provides support for small businesses during the early stages of their Brownsville/Matamoros venture. The program also encourages small businesses to collaborate with local industry groups, like the Matamoros Maquiladora Association, in identifying ways to promote competitiveness on a global level. In addition to providing support ranging from referrals, to networking opportunities, to small-business boot camps, the Brownsville Chamber is proud to nominate local small businesses for recognition by the U.S. Small Business Administration and to celebrate those recognized for excellence. Recent honorees include:

Nelly Burguete Independent Sales Director, Mary Kay Cosmetics Home-Based Business Champion of the Year, 2012

Monica Santoyo Owner, Boost Mobile at Extravagant Inc. Young Entrepreneur of the Year, 2012

John L. Villarreal Owner, La Milpa Tortilleria Restaurant Jeffrey Butland Family-Owned Business of the Year, 2012

Eva Woodfin Employing more than 600, the Convergys call center has been part of the Brownsville community since 1999.

Loan Coordinator, Community Loan Center Corporation Financial Services Champion of the Year, 2012

Eileen Mattei Managing Editor, Valley Business Report Small Business Journalist of the Year, 2013

Franceli Villaseñor President, DC Distributors Home-Based Business Champion of the Year, 2013

Wendy Hanson Community Impact Director, United Way of Southern Cameron Co. Veteran Small Business Champion of the Year, 2013

Nancy Reed Owner, Express Employment Professionals Women in Business Champion of the Year, 2013

Sandra Lopez-Langley Business Development Officer, First Community Bank Financial Services Champion of the Year, 2013

www.brownsvillechamber.com

13 BUSINESS & INDUSTRY

more than $150,000 and to rank significantly below the national average for workplace accidents. When small businesses need to ensure that their workers have a specific skill set, the Skills for Small Business program helps them work with the Texas Workforce Commission to fund training classes offered at local community or technical colleges or the Texas Engineering Extension Service. To help young people build the skills they need to successfully enter the labor market, Brownsville’s All In communitywide initiative is working to double the number of young adults with postsecondary job training by 2025. BEDC is also working closely with Partners for Postsecondary Success and RGV LEAD (Linking Economic & Academic Development, formerly known as Tech Prep) to evaluate ways to provide affordable training to young people looking to enter in-demand career fields.

INTERNATIONAL TRADE & TRANSPORT

BUSINESS & INDUSTRY

ituated where the Rio Grande and the Gulf of Mexico meet, a strategic location and status as the only Texas border city with a deepwater port gives Brownsville a competitive edge, especially in the logistics and transportation cluster. Brownsville and its sister city just across the border, Matamoros, Tamaulipas, comprise one of the most dynamic regions in North America: a region uniquely positioned as a hub for international trade in the NAFTA marketplace.

Beachâ&#x20AC;? (Travel Channel). A $2 shuttle is available, and no reservations are required. Private aviation is prospering at the airport as well with the construction of new or remodeled hangars at each of BROâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s three FBOs, or Fixed Base Operators. The airportâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s two Air Industrial Parks offer businesses an opportunity to grow with two miles of a deepwater seaport, the Port of Brownsville, and one of four international bridges. The airportâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s location at the crossroads of the hemisphere is a huge draw for air cargo because of peak efficiency. Operating costs are also the lowest of the five area airports.

Air In 2011, AeroMexico joined American Airlines, Continental and United at the Brownsville South Padre Island International Airport, marking the first time Brownsville has had more than two airlines since 1969. The airportâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s recent growth has been fueled by a strong local economy and a long-held commitment to offering the finest first-class air service in the Rio Grande Valley. Travelers love the new non-stop destinations, with connections to hundreds of cities all over the world. Travel is made easier by a professional staff specializing in customer service. The airport offers 24/7 customs and immigration service to travelers, as it has since 1929. Eight new secure parking lots are all within walking distance of the main terminal. Social media and the airportâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new website make travel a breeze. You can buy your ticket, rent a car, or book a hotel room all from your smart phone or the â&#x20AC;&#x153;old fashionedâ&#x20AC;? way, by using your laptop and visiting www.flybrownsville.com. No airport is closer to South Padre Island â&#x20AC;&#x201D; itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s just 20 miles away, less than half the distance of the next closest airport to Americaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s â&#x20AC;&#x153;Best Family

The Port of Brownsville Opened in 1936, the Port of Brownsville is located at the southernmost tip of Texas at the westernmost terminus of a 17-mile channel that flows into the Gulf of Mexico at the Brazos Santiago Pass. Brownsville is two miles to the southwest, adjacent to the Rio Grande River, providing a convenient gateway to Mexico. The Port of Brownsville is a deep-water seaport located directly on the U.S.â&#x20AC;&#x201C;Mexican border. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s in the business of facilitating the movement of cargo worldwide, offering vessel, barge, rail, truck and pipeline transportation. The Port also offers excellent development opportunities with some 40,000 acres of land. Infrastructure includes 12 cargo docks, five liquid cargo docks, 650,000 square feet of covered storage, and 2.85 million square feet of laydown and/or open storage. Petroleum products, gasoline, diesel, LPG, steel, bulk materials, ores, scrap and aluminum are some of the many commodities routinely handled at The Port. The Port facilitates the movement of goods between Mexico and the United States, linking the land transportation system of Mexico with the world via oceangoing vessels, while the Brownsville Ship

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BROWNSVILLE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

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An expressway runs through Brownsville, and more than 80 U.S. freight companies provide shipping, trucking and motor freight services for commercial and residential shippers from and to any point within the United States. Brownsville and Matamoros are inextricably linked: Four international bridges, with truck crossings to Mexico, offer convenient and efficient travel and transport between the two countries.

Rail Union Pacific lines run through Brownsville, providing direct access to Mexico. From the Mexico crossing at the Brownsville and Matamoros International Bridge, Ferrocarriles

17 Nacionales (the Mexican National Railway) transports railcars throughout the country. Rail service between Brownsville and Matamoros runs through multiple industrial parks, and the train crews operate on a 24-hour, six-days-per-week time frame. The Brownsville & Rio Grande International Railroad (the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Railroadâ&#x20AC;?) is a short-line railroad providing exclusive common carrier rail transportation to all facilities within the Brownsville Navigation District of Cameron County, Texas. All traffic is interchanged with the Union Pacific Railroad Company (UP) at its Olmito yard.

www.brownsvillechamber.com

BUSINESS & INDUSTRY

Channel links Mexico to the Gulf Intercoastal Waterway and the Inland Waterway System of the United States. A subsidiary of The Port of Brownsville, the Brownsville & Rio Grande International Railroad (BRG) provides Port customers with efficient and reliable railroad service, 24/6. BRG interconnects with Union Pacific Railroad (UP) and Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railroad (BNSF) for northbound cargo and with Kansas City Southern de Mexico (KCSM) for southbound cargo. The Port of Brownsville is Grantee to Foreign Trade Zone (FTZ) # 62. While at the FTZ, foreign or domestic merchandise can be stored, assembled, tested, or otherwise manipulated or destroyed without duties being paid. The economic importance of The Port of Brownsville is clearly shown in an economic impact report prepared by Martin Associates/ John C. Martin Associates LLC. According to the report, vessel and cargo activity at the marine cargo facilities and ship repair/oil rig maintenance operations generated 21,590 jobs in Texas in 2011. Of these 21,590 jobs, 11,230 directly impact the local and regional economy. The economic impact of direct business revenue generated by the marine cargo activities and the impact locally is an estimated $925 million. Overall, marine cargo activity at the marine terminals at The Port of Brownsville and the ship and rig repair operations generated a total of $2 billion in total economic activity in the state of Texas. In addition to overall jobs and economic activity, income and local expenditures are estimated at $771.3 million. Local and state taxes generated by the economic activity at The Port of Brownsville totaled $134.1 million.

Land

BUSINESS & INDUSTRY

STEPS FOR OPERATING A BUSINESS IN BROWNSVILLE 1. B usiness Legal Structure and Name The initial step in starting your business is to correctly record the name of your business and to decide the legal arrangement of your business. The legal arrangement is the most critical, since it will have significant impact on your taxes and liability, both financially and legally. Contact the Chamber for a list of attorneys.

To apply for an Employee Identification Number, complete form SS-4 from:

Internal Revenue Service 2701 S. 77 Sunshine Strip Harlingen, TX 78550 956-365-5185 www.irs.gov/businesses/small/index.html

Business Name Upon determining the legal organization and a name for the business, if the name of the business will be other than the owner’s name, a business name must be filed with the County Clerk’s office and/or the Secretary of State, depending on its legal structure.

Local Registration All business entities doing business in Cameron County as a Sole Proprietorship or Partnership will need to file an Assumed Name Certificate with the respective county courthouse. For further information, call or visit the Cameron County clerk at 956-544-0815 or www.co.cameron.tx.us/countyclerk/index.htm.

State Registration All business entities doing business in the State of Texas as Limited Partnerships, Registered Limited Liability Part nerships, Limited Liability Companies, Corporations, Professional Corporations, Non Profit Corporations, and Professional Associations must submit documentation with the Secretary of State. For further information, visit the Secretary of State’s website at www.sos. state.tx.us. Finally, with corporations, all businesses will need to file Articles of Incorporation with the Secretary of State. The fee for filing is $300.

2. N avigating Through the Tax Maze The specific taxes that are applicable to organizations vary based on the legal structure selected, the location of the business, the number of employees hired, and other varying factors. The following is a summary of the different types of taxes that most businesses are required to pay; it should not be construed as a comprehensive list. A tax accountant should be contacted to verify the taxes that are applicable to your organization.

Federal Taxes When forming your business, one of the first steps is to apply for a Federal Taxpayer Identification Number. If you are in a trade or business, your taxpayer ID number is generally your Employer Identification Number (EIN), which must be shown on all of your business tax returns as well as on any tax-related documents and statements. When filing income tax returns as an individual proprietor, a partner in a partnership, or a member of an LLC, you must place your Social Security number and EIN on your personal income tax return (Form 1040); Form 1040 for sole proprietorships, partners, and LLCs; and Form 1120 for corporations. If you have changed the legal form of the organization (i.e., incorporated your individual proprietor business, formed a partnership, or vice versa) you must get a new Employer Identification Number. The same is true if there is a change in ownership of the business (such as the purchase or inheritance of an existing business); you cannot use the EIN of the former owner, even if he or she is your spouse. A new number is required if you terminate an old partnership and begin a new one.

BROWNSVILLE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Once this form is processed, you will receive your ID number, a federal deposit tax slip, and relevant information about the taxes you will need to pay. As an employer, you are responsible for withholding and paying certain taxes connected with the salaries, wages, tips, and other compensation paid to your employees. The most common taxes are the Federal Income Tax, the Federal Insurance Contribution Tax Act (FICA), and the Federal Unemployment Tax Act (FUTA). It is important to note that you, as the employer, are liable for regular payments to the government (federal, state, and local) of the various taxes that are withheld from your employees’ compensation. You are subject to severe penalties for non-payment. A business tax kit is available at the IRS office; this kit includes forms and brochures that will help you comply with federal tax laws and regulations. The kit also contains a Tax Guide for Small Business, which explains step-by-step the taxes for which you may be liable, sample filled-in forms, and other helpful information. Contact the IRS office to request the Business Tax Kit and other publications at 800-829-3676.

State Taxes The agency in charge of administration and collection of state and local sales taxes from businesses operating in Texas, as well as any franchise taxes owed by Texas corporations, is the Comptroller of Public Accounts. For further information, contact:

Comptroller of Public Accounts 955 W. Price Road, Suite B Brownsville, TX 78520-8703 956-542-8426

Some employers must contribute to the state unemployment insurance fund. The agency in charge of collecting all unemployment taxes for workers employed in Texas is the Texas Workforce Commission. For further information about these taxes, obtaining a state employer’s identification number, and tax credits, contact:

Texas Workforce Commission - Tax Department 101 E. 15th Street Austin, TX 78776 www.twc.state.tx.us/customers/bemp/bempsub3.html • New Employer Accounts/Status of Accounts: 800-832-9394 • Quarterly Reports and Rates: 512-936-6379 • Unemployment Insurance Customer Service: 512-463-2542 • Labor Market Information: 512-936-3278 • Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC): 800-695-6879

Corporations and Limited Liability Companies organized or doing business in Texas are subject to the Texas franchise tax. For additional information, call 800-252-1381 or visit the Texas State Comptroller’s Web page at www.window.state.tx.us/taxinfo/franchise/index.html. When a business owner sells taxable items (tangible personal property or taxable services), he or she must collect state sales or use tax plus the appropriate local

Local Taxes Owners of real property and tangible personal property located in Texas on the date of assessment, and that is used in generating income, are subject to tax. The tax rate is set by the local (county) taxing unit. Real property includes land and improvements on the land. Tangible personal property includes boats, trailers, inventory, and depreciable tangible personal property, with certain exemptions for inventory. For further information, contact the local county appraisal district where the business is located. NOTE: A variety of miscellaneous state and federal taxes, such as the gasoline tax, must be filed in specific situations. The aforementioned tax rates and other tax matters covered are subject to change. It is recommended that you see the IRS office, the Texas Comptroller of Public Account office, or your accountant for updated information. Contact the Chamber for a list of member accountants.

3. B usiness Licenses and Permits by Business Type The Texas Secretary of State’s website has links to sites with information about licenses, permits, certifications, and registrations for business. Visit www.sos.state. tx.us/corp/related.shtml.

The TCHR will assist local governments in establishing human rights commissions and will provide technical assistance and training to employers to facilitate compliance with laws prohibiting employment discrimination. The TCHR has jurisdiction for investigating employment complaints in Texas. The EEOC promotes voluntary programs that allow employers and organizations to implement equal employment opportunity programs within their businesses. For inquiries regarding federal equal employment requirements, contact:

U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission San Antonio Field Office Legacy Oaks, Building A 5410 Fredericksburg Road, Suite 200 San Antonio, TX 78229 800-669-4000

Americans with Disabilities Act Requirements The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) provides protection for people with disabilities in the areas of employment, public services and transportation, public accommodation, and telecommunications. For more federal information on how the Americans with Disabilities Act will affect a business and for technical assistance with provisions applying to employment, contact:

U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission 131 M Street, NE Fourth Floor, Suite 4 NW 02F Washington, D.C. 20507 800-669-4000 or 800-669-6820 (TDD) www.eeoc.gov

Safety Requirements

4. B usiness Employer Requirements

Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)

Employers have to comply with labor, safety, and tax obligations at federal and state levels.

San Antonio District Office Washington Square Boulevard, Suite 203 800 Dolorosa Street San Antonio, TX 78207 210-472-5040

Texas Workforce Commission 101 East 15th Street Austin, TX 78778 800-832-9243 www.texasworkforce.org

The Texas Workers’ Compensation Commission publishes a new law guide, a quarterly newsletter and an information brochure for employers to help them become more familiar with the basic requirements for workers’ compensation in Texas. To obtain these publications, contact:

Wage and Labor Requirements The Texas Workforce Commission is charged with investigating and notifying appropriate county and/or district attorneys regarding all labor law violations. The Labor Law Department is charged with the enforcement of state and federal labor laws as well as the prosecution of offenders of these laws. State statutes include the Pay Day and Child Labor laws. For additional information, contact:

Texas Workers’ Compensation

U.S. Department of Labor Regional Wage and Hour Offices

7551 Metro Center Drive Austin, TX 78744 512-804-4000

Corpus Christi: 361-888-3152 San Antonio: 210-308-4515 McAllen: 956-682-4631

Equal Employment Requirements

Drug-Free Workplace

Federal and state laws prohibit employment discrimination. The United States Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) and the Texas Commission on Human Rights (TCHR) are charged with enforcing fair employment laws, which prohibit discrimination on the basis of race, color, sex, religion, disability, age, or national origin. Current statutes cover all employment transactions. All employers with 15 or more employees engaged in an industry affecting commerce, employment agencies, and labor unions are prohibited from denying equal employment opportunities. Regardless of the number of individuals employed, a county, municipality, and any state agency or instrumentality, including public institutes of education, are also prohibited from denying equal employment opportunities.

Advice is available to Texas employers with 15 or more employees who maintain workers’ compensation coverage. Employers must comply with certain drug-free workplace requirements and are also subject to federal regulations. These federal regulations include the Drug-Free Workplace Act of 1988 and U.S. Department of Transportation regulations requiring drug and alcohol testing. For information, contact:

Texas Drug-Free Workplace Initiative 2525 Wallingwood, Building 5 Austin, TX 78746 512-328-1144

www.brownsvillechamber.com

19 BUSINESS & INDUSTRY

sales or use taxes. Sales taxes can reach a maximum of 8.25 percent. The state levies 6.25 percent of the sale’s price on qualifying items. The state also collects sales taxes for the cities and other municipal taxing authorities, which can reach an additional 2.0 percent combined, then rebates money to the local authorities. Depending on the anticipated sales volume for the business, the owner will file sales tax reports quarterly, monthly, or yearly. The State’s Comptroller’s Office will send preprinted report forms to the taxpayer before the due date. For more information, visit www.window.state.tx.us.

BUSINESS & INDUSTRY

COMO OPERAR UN NEGOCIO EN BROWNSVILLE 1. E STRUCTURA JURÍDICA Y NOMBRE DEL NEGOCIO El paso inicial es registrar correctamente el nombre de su empresa y decidir la disposición legal de su negocio. El instrumento jurídico es esencial, ya que tendrá un impacto significativo en sus impuestos y las responsabilidades, tanto financieras como jurídicas. Póngase en contacto con la Cámara para una lista de abogados.

Nombre del negocio Después de determinar la organización jurídica y el nombre del negocio, si el nombre de la empresa será diferente al nombre del propietario, un nombre comercial debe presentarse ante la oficina del secretario del condado y / o el secretario de Estado, dependiendo de su estructura jurídica.

Registro local Todas las entidades comerciales que deseen operar en el Condado de Cameron como una empresa individual o asociación deberán presentar un Certificado de Nombre Asumido ante la corte del condado correspondiente. Para más información, llame al secretario del Condado de Cameron al 956-544-0815 o visite www.co.cameron.tx.us/countyclerk/index.htm.

Registro del estado Todas las entidades comerciales que hacen negocios en el Estado de Texas como sociedades limitadas, Asociaciones Registradas de Responsabilidad Limitada, Compañías de Responsabilidades Limitadas, Sociedades Anónimas, Sociedades Profesionales, corporaciones sin fines de lucro y asociaciones profesionales deben presentar la documentación a la Secretaria de Estado. Para más información, visite el sitio web de la Secretaria de Estado en www.sos.state.tx.us. Por último, con las corporaciones, toda empresa tendrá que presentar los artículos de incorporación al Secretario de Estado. La cuota administrativa es de $300.

2. IMPUESTOS Los impuestos específicos que son aplicables a las organizaciones varían en función de la estructura jurídica elegida, la ubicación de la empresa, el número de empleados contratados, entre otros factores. El siguiente es un resumen de los diferentes tipos de impuestos que la mayoría de las empresas tienen que pagar, tome en cuenta que no es una lista completa. Un contador debe ser contactado para verificar los impuestos que son aplicables a su organización.

Impuestos Federales Al formar su empresa, uno de los primeros pasos es solicitar un Número de Identificación Federal de Contribuyentes. Si usted forma parte de un comercio o negocio, su número de identificación fiscal es generalmente su número de identificación patronal (EIN por sus siglas en inglés), que tendrá que ser presentado en todas las declaraciones de impuestos de su negocio, así como en todos los documentos relacionados con los impuestos y estados de cuenta. Al presentar declaraciones de impuestos como propietario individual, socio de una asociación o integrante de una LLC, usted debe colocar su número de Seguro Social y EIN en su declaración personal de impuesto (Formulario 1040), el Formulario 1040 es para las empresas individuales, los asociados y sociedades de responsabilidad limitada y la forma 1120 para las corporaciones. Si ha cambiado la forma jurídica de la organización (es decir, de propiedad individual a formar una sociedad, o viceversa), debe obtener un nuevo EIN. Lo mismo ocurre si hay un cambio en la titularidad de la empresa (tales como la compra o herencia de un negocio ya existente), no se puede usar el EIN del dueño anterior, incluso si él o ella es su cónyuge. Un nuevo número es necesario si se cierra una sociedad y comienza una nueva.

BROWNSVILLE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Para solicitar su EIN llene el formulario SS-4:

Internal Revenue Service (por sus siglas en inglés) 2701 S. 77 Sunshine Strip Harlingen, TX 78550 956-365-5185 www.irs.gov/businesses/small/index.html

Una vez que esta solicitud sea procesada, usted recibirá su EIN, un comprobante de depósito de impuestos federales e información relevante acerca de los impuestos que tendrá que pagar. Como propietario usted es responsable de la retención y el pago de determinados impuestos relacionados con los sueldos, salarios, propinas y otras compensaciones pagadas a sus empleados. Los impuestos más comunes son los impuestos federales, impuesto federal del ingreso, la Ley Federal de Contribuciones de Seguros e Impuestos (FICA) y la Ley del Impuesto Federal por Desempleo (FUTA). Es importante tener en cuenta que usted, como propietario, es responsable de los pagos periódicos al gobierno (federal, estatal y local) de los diferentes impuestos que son retenidos de la compensación de sus empleados. Usted estará sujeto a sanciones severas por falta de pago. Un kit empresarial se encuentra disponible en la oficina del IRS, este kit incluye formularios y folletos que le ayudarán a cumplir con las leyes fiscales y regulaciones federales. El kit también contiene una guía de impuestos para pequeños negocios, donde se explica paso a paso los impuestos a los que puede ser responsable, formularios complementarios y otra información. Póngase en contacto con la oficina del IRS para solicitar su kit u otras publicaciones al 1 800-829-3676.

Impuestos Estatales La agencia a cargo de la administración y recaudación de impuestos estatales y locales de las empresas que operan en Texas, así como los impuestos de franquicia es la Contraloría de Cuentas Públicas. Para más información, comuníquese con:

Comptroller of Public Accounts 955 W. Price Road, Suite B Brownsville, TX 78520-8703 956-542-8426

Algunos propietarios deben contribuir al fondo estatal de seguro de desempleo. El organismo encargado de recoger todos los impuestos de desempleo para trabajadores en Texas es la Comisión Laboral de Texas. Para más información sobre estos impuestos, la obtención de un número EIN y los créditos fiscales, contacte:

Texas Workforce Commission – Tax Department 101 E. 15th Street Austin, TX 78776 www.twc.state.tx.us/customers/bemp/bempsub3.html • Cuentas de propietarios nuevos/Estados de cuentas: 800-832-9394 • Reportes trimestrales y tarifas: 512-936-6379 • Atención al Cliente para Seguro de Desempleo: 512-463-2542 • Información sobre el Mercado Laboral: 512-936-3278 • Oportunidad de Crédito Fiscal (WOTC por sus siglas en inglés): 800-695-6879

Sociedades Anónimas y Sociedades de Responsabilidad Limitada que operan en Texas están sujetas al impuesto de franquicia aunque no estén registradas en el estado. Para obtener información adicional, llame al 800-252-1381 o visite la página de la Contraloría en www.window.state.tx.us/taxinfo/franchise/index.html. Cuando el propietario de una empresa vende tributables (propiedad personal tangible o servicios), él o ella debe recaudar los impuestos estatales o el impuesto aplicable. Impuestos sobre las ventas pueden llegar a un máximo del

Los impuestos locales En Texas los propietarios de bienes raíces y propiedad personal tangible quienes generan ingresos están sujetos al pago de impuestos. La tasa del impuesto es fijada por la unidad de impuesto local del condado. Los bienes incluyen la propiedad y las mejoras dentro de la propiedad. La propiedad personal tangible incluye embarcaciones, remolques, inventario, depreciación en bienes tangibles, con algunas excepciones del inventario. Para más información, contacte al departamento de evaluación del condado local donde se encuentra el negocio. NOTA: Una variedad de impuestos estatales y federales tales como el impuesto a la gasolina, se debe presentar en situaciones específicas. Las tarifas de impuestos antes mencionados y otros asuntos al que se refiere están sujetos a cambios. Se recomienda que consulte a la oficina del IRS, la Oficina de Cuentas Públicas de la Contraloría de Texas o su contador para obtener información actualizada. Póngase en contacto con la Cámara para obtener una lista de contadores.

3. L ICENCIAS Y PERMISOS DE NEGOCIOS DE ACUERDO AL TIPO DE NEGOCIO El Departamento de Desarrollo Económico cuenta con una lista de información sobre licencias, permisos, certificaciones y registros para negocios a nivel local, estatal y federal. Visite www.sos.state.tx.us/corp/related.shtml.

4. R EQUISITOS PARA PROPIETARIOS Los propietarios tienen que cumplir con el trabajo, la seguridad y las obligaciones fiscales a nivel estatal y federal.

Texas Workforce Commission 101 East 15th Street Austin, TX 78778 800-832-9243 www.texasworkforce.org/twcinfo/splinks.html

La Comisión de Compensación de los Trabajadores publica la guía de leyes aplicables, un boletín trimestral y un folleto informativo para ayudar a los empresarios a familiarizarse con los requisitos básicos para la compensación de trabajadores en Texas. Para obtener estas publicaciones, comuníquese a:

Texas Workers’ Compensation 7551 Metro Center Dr. Austin, TX 78744 512-804-4000

Requisitos para la igualdad de empleo Las leyes federales y estatales prohíben la discriminación en el empleo. La Comision de Igualdad de Oportunidades de Empleo (EEOC por sus siglas en inglés) y la Comisión de Derechos Humanos en Texas (TCHR por sus siglas en inglés) se encargan de hacer cumplir las leyes laborales que prohíben la discriminación por motivos de raza, color, sexo, religión, discapacidad, edad o nacionalidad. Los propietarios con 15 o más empleados ligados a un comercio que afectan la industria, las agencias de empleo y los sindicatos tienen prohibido negar la igualdad de oportunidades de empleo. Independientemente del número de empleados, las dependencias del estado, condado o municipio, incluido los institutos públicos de educación, tienen prohibido negar la igualdad de oportunidades de empleo.

El TCHR ayudará a los gobiernos locales a establecer comisiones de derechos humanos y prestará asistencia técnica y capacitación a los propietarios a facilitar el cumplimiento de leyes que prohíben la discriminación en el empleo. El TCHR tiene jurisdicción para investigar las denuncias de empleo en Texas. La EEOC promueve programas de voluntariado que permiten a los propietarios y las organizaciones a poner en práctica programas de igualdad de oportunidades en el empleo dentro de sus empresas. Para consultar los requisitos federales de igualdad de empleo, contacte a:

U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission San Antonio Field Office Legacy Oaks, Building A 5410 Fredericksburg Road, Suite 200 San Antonio, TX 78229 1 800-669-4000

Requisitos para el decreto de los americanos discapacitados La ley de discapacidad (ADA por sus siglas en inglés) ofrece protección a las personas con discapacidad en los ámbitos laborales, transporte, servicios públicos, alojamiento y telecomunicaciones. Para más información sobre la forma en que el ADA influirá a su negocio y asistencia técnica en las disposiciones aplicables al empleo, contacte a:

U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission 131 M Street, NE Fourth Floor, Suite 4NW02F Washington, DC 20507 800-669-4000 o 800-669-6820 (TDD) www.eeoc.gov/spanish/

Requisitos de seguridad Occupational Safety and Health Administration San Antonio District Office Washington Square Boulevard Suite 203 800 Dolorosa Street San Antonio, TX 78207 210-472-5040

Requisitos de salarios y trabajo La Comisión Laboral de Texas se encarga de investigar y notificar al condado y / o fiscales de distrito con respecto a todas las violaciones de la legislación laboral. El Departamento de Derecho Laboral se encarga de la aplicación de las leyes laborales estatales y federales, así como el cumplimiento de estas. Las leyes estatales incluyen el Programa del Día de Pago y las leyes sobre Trabajo Infantil. Para obtener información adicional, comuníquese con:

U.S. Department of Labor Regional Wage and Hour Offices Corpus Christi: 361-888-3152 McAllen: 956-682-4631 San Antonio: 210-308-4515

Trabajo Libre de Drogas Orientación está disponible a propietarios con 15 o más empleados que implementen este programa. Los propietarios deben cumplir con ciertos requisitos y están sujetos a regulaciones federales. Estas regulaciones federales incluye La Ley de Trabajo Libre de Drogas de 1988 y regulaciones del Departamento de Transporte de los EE.UU. que requieren pruebas de drogas y alcohol. Para más información:

Texas Drug-Free Workplace Initiative 2525 Wallingwood, Building 5 Austin, TX 78746 512-328-1144

www.brownsvillechamber.com

21 BUSINESS & INDUSTRY

8.25 por ciento. El Estado recauda 6.25 por ciento del precio de la venta de elementos calificados. El Estado también recauda los impuestos de ventas para las ciudades y otras autoridades fiscales municipales, que pueden alcanzar un adicional de 2.0 por ciento combinado y después reembolsar el dinero a las autoridades locales. Dependiendo del volumen de ventas previsto para el negocio, el propietario presentará un impuesto de ventas trimestrales, mensuales o anuales. La Contraloría del Estado enviará formularios preimpresos a los contribuyentes antes de la fecha de vencimiento. Para obtener más información, visite www.window.state.tx.us/comptrol/espanol.html.

HEALTH CARE

VALLEY BAPTIST MEDICAL CENTER

Providing State-of-the-Art, Compassionate Care for Valley Residents & Visitors For 90 Years

BROWNSVILLE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

1040 W. Jefferson Street, Brownsville 956-698-5400 :: www.ValleyBaptist.net

A Dr. Nieves

Located at 1040 W. Jefferson Street at Central Boulevard, Valley Baptist Medical Center-Brownsville is Brownsville’s largest hospital, offering a wide array of advanced health care services for Brownsville-area residents and visitors.

alley Baptist-Medical Center-Brownsville, with its dedicated doctors and compassionate staff, has been Brownsville’s leader in health care and medical advances for 90 years, including with heart and stroke procedures, joint replacement surgeries, women’s and children’s services, minimally invasive surgeries, and other procedures. As the largest hospital in Brownsville, Valley Baptist-Brownsville boasts an award-winning Emergency Department and Level 3 Trauma Center. Valley Baptist-Brownsville is also certified as a “Primary Stroke Center” by the Joint Commission accrediting organization. Also, Valley Baptist-Brownsville was the first hospital in the Texas to receive a “Stroke Honor Roll” award for fast response in treating patients with life-threatening strokes or “brain attacks.” Valley Baptist-Brownsville has also opened new surgery suites that are benefitting patients needing a wide variety of minimally invasive surgeries, including laparoscopic and robotic surgery. The precise robot-assisted surgery means smaller incisions, less pain, and faster recoveries for many patients, including those needing gynecological or other types of surgeries. Valley Baptist-Brownsville offers a complete array of women’s and children’s services, including family-centered post-partum units; a Newborn Intensive Care Unit, to treat the Valley’s tiniest patients; Women’s Surgery Suites; Day Surgery; outpatient services; and childbirth classes. Addressing an important health concern in South Texas, Valley BaptistBrownsville offers a diabetes education program, as well as a Foot Care Institute and a Wound Care Center with specialized care for diabetes and other patients. With approximately 800 employees and 300 doctors on its medical staff, caring health care professionals form Valley Baptist-Brownsville’s greatest asset in fulfilling its mission of helping people achieve health for life, through compassionate service inspired by faith. For more information, visit www.ValleyBaptist.net or call 956-698-5400.

Dr. Flores

t Brownsville OB/GYN Associates, we have embraced minimally invasive surgery as a means to improve our patients’ lives while also decreasing the impact of our interventions, allowing us to get you back to your life sooner. Valley Baptist Medical Center, in partnership with Dr. Jose R. Nieves of Brownsville OB/GYN Associates, has developed the Robotic Surgery Committee, chaired by Dr. Nieves, to direct the implementation of the latest and best robotic surgery procedures. Dr. Nieves and Dr. Flores of Brownsville OB/GYN Associates perform minimally invasive gynecologic procedures with the assistance of state-of-the-art da Vinci® Surgery technology.

Besides robotic assisted surgery, Dr. Nieves and Dr. Flores offer hysteroscopic procedures, which are performed through small scopes inserted into the uterine cavity, and vaginal surgery. Of course, not all surgery can be performed with minimally invasive techniques, and not all patients are candidates for it. Only with a thorough medical evaluation can a person know whether she is a candidate. Our highly skilled physicians will discuss your treatment options and answer your questions, helping you decide on the best treatment to meet your individual needs. If you are interested in learning more, you are welcome to contact our office for a consultation appointment, where you can discuss options with our trained physicians, face to face. Looking for more information? See our ad on the following pages, or find us on the Internet at www.bogagyn.com, where you can find useful links to various educational materials, including YouTube videos of minimally invasive procedures, along with access to additional information specific to women’s health care needs. If your condition requires a surgical approach, we are proud to be the only practice in Brownsville that is 100 percent committed to minimally invasive gynecological surgery. Come and experience the future of surgery with us.

www.brownsvillechamber.com

HEALTH CARE

ROBOTIC-ASSISTED SURGERY AT BROWNSVILLE OB/GYN ASSOCIATES

“

LEADERS IN INNOVATIVE SURGERY Dr. Nieves performed Brownsville’s ﬁrst robotic assisted operation.

BROWNSVILLE OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY ASSOCIATES, P.L.L.C. 800 W. JEFFERSON • SUITE 210 BROWNSVILLE, TX 78520 (956) 550-8733

WWW.BOGAGYN.COM

n Aspiring Goal began in 1993, when Dr. Jose R. Nieves went to Beth Israel Medical Center for clinical rotation in laparoscopy. It became clear what he wanted to focus on as an obstetrician/gynecologist. Up until then, residents at the University of Puerto Rico trained with outdated, inadequate equipment that made minimally invasive surgery a nuisance. “We didn’t have cameras or monitors. . .” says Nieves, “Operations were done with one person looking directly through the scope. While everyone else stood still and held things they couldn’t see.” An Exchange of Expertise was provided through the University District Hospital residency program. It was arranged for the University of Puerto Rico residents to go to New York to learn laparoscopy. Meanwhile, Beth Israel residents were invited to Puerto Rico to learn vaginal surgery. Soon after this, Dr. Nieves’ residency program purchased basic laparoscopy equipment. The faculty and residents soon shared his enthusiasm. “Seeing what was possible with good equipment and modern technology, opened my eyes,” said Nieves, “I became fascinated with minimally invasive surgery. I wanted to master it.” It Became A Family Affair when Dr. Nieves’ wife was scheduled to begin her Beth Israel laparoscopy rotation upon returning from their honeymoon in 1996. Dr. Magdalena Flores had also trained at the University of Puerto Rico as an OB/GYN which set the stage to share her husband’s aspiring goals. Through the years, Dr. Nieves and Dr. Flores have kept their enthusiasm for laparoscopic surgery. This is evident in their practice, Brownsville OB/GYN Associates, where they embrace and offer minimally invasive approaches. These procedures greatly benefit their patients when compared to open surgery. The majority of patients experience shorter hospital stays, less pain, less scarring, less blood loss and quicker recovery. Opportunity Knocked through Valley Baptist-Brownsville who approached ® Dr. Nieves. They offered him training in robotic assisted surgery using the da Vinci Surgical System. He did not hesitate and eagerly jumped at the chance. “This is the type of technology I could only dream about when I got started,” said Nieves, “I saw a chance to expand my horizons; being able to offer more complicated ® surgery while keeping the benefits of a laparoscopic approach.” The da Vinci robotic system is a sophisticated surgical platform designed to facilitate complex procedures using a minimally invasive approach. ® Innovative & State-of-the-Art. The da Vinci provides surgeons with enhanced capabilities. This includes high-definition 3D vision and magnified views. The surgeon controls the da Vinci®System which translates his or her hand movements into smaller, more precise movements of tiny instruments inside the body. ® Although, it is often called a “robot”, the da Vinci System cannot act on its own. ® The surgery is performed 100% by the physician. The da Vinci technology allows surgeons to perform complex operations through just a few tiny incisions. As a result, patients may get back to their lives faster without experiencing the usual recovery following major surgery. Leading the Way. The alliance of Vanguard Health Systems with Valley Baptist brought with it the opportunity to bring robotic surgery to Brownsville. Dr. Nieves preformed Brownsville’s first ever robotic assisted operation in July, 2012. Since then, Dr. Nieves has been serving as Chairman of the Robotic Surgery Committee at Valley Baptist-Brownsville. Dr. Flores also offers robotic assisted operations to her patients. “It’s very gratifying to see our patients recover so fast and with so little pain compared to open surgery.” says Dr. Flores. “The detailed 3D view increases the safety of the procedures and the laparoscopic approach allows our patients get back to their lives faster.” Dr. Nieves and Dr. Flores have been fully committed to practicing minimally invasive gynecology. “Becoming proficient at minimally invasive surgery requires commitment.” said Dr. Flores, “We are proud to say that we were able to complete all our gynecological surgery through a minimally invasive approach in 2012.”

José R. Nieves-Sosa, M.D., FACOG • Magdalena Flores, M.D., FACOG

HEALTH CARE

VALLEY REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER 100 A.E. Alton Gloor, Brownsville 956-350-7000 :: www.ValleyRegionalMedicalCenter.com

or more than 38 years, Valley Regional Medical Center (VRMC) has served as Brownsville’s premier medical center. VRMC is conveniently located at the corner of Expressway 77 and Alton Gloor Boulevard. With 214 licensed beds, VRMC provides some of the most advanced technologies available. Families throughout the Texas Valley count on our hospital for their emergency, inpatient and outpatient needs. With more than 200 physicians representing 25 specialties, Valley Regional Medical Center is a leader in a broad range of high-quality programs, including advanced diagnostic imaging, emergency medicine, general surgery, gynecology, interventional cardiac care, neonatal intensive care, neurology, obstetrics, orthopedics, pediatrics, physical therapy, wound healing and more. VRMC offers patients cutting-edge imaging with our 64-slice CT technology, 1.5 Tesla MRI, digital mammography and other advanced imaging options. Our Emergency Department, a designated Level III Trauma Center, treats a wide range of emergent needs, including broken bones, heart attacks, traumas and everything in between, 24 hours a day. “Great care begins with our experienced physicians and staff providing the kind of patient-centered care our communities deserve,” said Susan Andrews, CEO of VRMC. Innovation and an unwavering commitment to patient care are the cornerstones of our hospital. Our mission is to be our community’s best choice for health care by providing the high-quality, compassionate care you expect and deserve. Other hospitals may treat you like a patient, but we treat you like a person; like a member of our own family.

BROWNSVILLE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

27 HEALTH CARE

BROWNSVILLE COMMUNITY HEALTH CENTER 956-548-7400 :: www.mybchc.org

he Brownsville Community Health Center (BCHC) is a nonprofit 501(c)3 organization serving as a community and migrant health center. The principal mission of the center is to provide quality comprehensive primary health care services with dignity to the residents of Brownsville and the surrounding areas of southern Cameron County. BCHC has served as the medical home for thousands of families since the 1940s. BCHC is governed by a community-based board of directors. BCHC provides primary health care at five clinics. In 2012, BCHC provided care to 20,326 patients. Of these, 12,399 (61 percent) had family incomes below the poverty line. Seventy-one percent of the patients had no third-party coverage. Currently, five percent of the user population receives Medicaid. BCHC also serves as a migrant health center, serving many of the migrant and seasonal farmworker families who travel north during harvesting season. These families make up three percent of the BCHC users. A sliding fee scale makes it possible for many uninsured families to receive the care they need. Clients are charged based on their ability to pay, with most patients eligible to pay only the minimal co-payment per visit. In 2012, the Community Health Center provided a total of 92,091 encounters with a staff of 193 FTEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s (full-time equivalents), including 12 FTE physicians and six FTE midlevel practitioners. The Dental Clinic is staffed by 2 FTE dentists and 1.7 FTE hygienists. Onsite ancillary services offered include a laboratory that is COLA- and OSHA-certified, radiology, a Class A pharmacy, social services, case management, podiatry, patient education, and eligibility assistance. AmeriCorps volunteers and Promotoras from the community help with outreach, case management and patient education activities. In addition to the main clinic, which was built in 2011 and serves the entire catchment area, two school-based sites and two satellite clinics bring health care services closer to the people who most need them. The Campus Care Centers are a collaborative effort of BCHC and the Brownsville Independent School District, serving school children for the past 20 years. BCHC at 22nd Street serves the health needs of the southern part of Brownsville, and New Horizon Medical serves families in the central and northern parts of the city. BCHC actively pursues linkages with health organizations to improve the health status of the community. BCHC has participated in the National Diabetes Collaborative, which emphasizes patient self-management along with a comprehensive set of direct care services. Through its many partnerships with local and state medical, dental and allied health programs, the center serves as a clinical rotation site for medical students, dental students, physician assistants and other health professionals.

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HEALTH CARE

DRISCOLL CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL 3533 S. Alameda St., Corpus Christi 361-694-5000 :: 800-324-5683 www.driscollchildrens.org

ince opening its doors in 1953, Driscoll Children’s Hospital (DCH) has offered hope and healing to children throughout South Texas. The hospital is located in Corpus Christi, and five specialty clinics and three non-emergent clinics serve the needs of children in 31 South Texas counties. Driscoll’s patient care

units offer high-quality care for newborns, infants and children with life-threatening

Driscoll Children’s Specialty Center 5500 N. Expressway 77/83, Brownsville 956-698-8605

illnesses and injuries. DCH is a 189-bed pediatric tertiary care center with pediatric specialists in 32 medical and 13 surgical specialties. The hospital also maintains a state-of-the-art ground-air transport team. In fiscal year 2012, Driscoll had more than 72,000 clinic visits and performed more than 6,700 surgeries. In 1987, Driscoll became the first hospital in South Texas to provide emergency services exclusively for children, and in fiscal year 2012 the hospital had more than 34,500 emergency room visits. In summer 2013, work began on a $12 million emergency room redesign project that will significantly enhance overall patient care at Driscoll. The two-story, 55,000-square-foot Driscoll Children’s Specialty Center – Brownsville includes 12 physician exam rooms and two procedure rooms for pediatric subspecialty services. These include surgery, gastroenterology, hematology and oncology, nephrology, orthopedics, neurology, neurosurgery, plastic and reconstructive surgery, and urology. The Brownsville clinic enables children in the Rio Grande Valley to be treated by Driscoll physicians locally, minimizing the need for travel to the Corpus Christi campus.

BROWNSVILLE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

425 E. Alton Gloor Boulevard, Brownsville :: 956-554-6000 :: www.strh.ernesthealth.com

outh Texas Rehabilitation Hospital (STRH), owned and operated by Ernest Health, is a state-of-the-art, 40-bed acute-care rehabilitation hospital specializing in care for patients with functional deficits such as stroke, trauma, spinal cord injury and other disabling impairments.The highly trained and supportive staff strives to help patients recover quickly and return home safely with a renewed sense of self-sufficiency. The hospital has repeatedly been ranked in the top 10 percent of rehabilitation facilities (IRFs). The award, issued by Uniform Data System for Medical Rehabilitation (UDSMR), recognizes high-performing facilities for their delivery of quality patient care that is effective, efficient, timely and patient-centered.

Inpatient services include acute rehabilitation, nursing care and medical management for patients suffering from stroke, brain injuries, major multiple trauma, neurological disorders, orthopedic dysfunction, advanced osteoarthritis, amputation, knee and hip joint replacement, and spinal cord injuries. Outpatient services include physical, occupational and speech therapy. Other specialty options are aquatic therapy, lymphedema treatment, neurological rehabilitation and an arthritis program. STRH was the first to offer Bioness® technology in the Valley area. This innovative functional stimulation (FES) system helps patients regain mobility in their hands and feet.

SOLARA HOSPITAL, BROWNSVILLE CAMPUS 333 Lorenaly Drive, Brownsville :: 956-546-0808 :: www.solarahc.com

olara Hospital is a 41-bed facility (including a six-bed ICU) designed to treat patients with acute complicated care needs that require an average hospital stay of 25 days or more. The hospital, opened in 2007 by Solara Healthcare, Valley Baptist Health System and local physicians, serves Brownsville and surrounding communities. Solara’s acute-care hospitals provide care for patients who have chronic or catastrophic care needs and for those who depend upon ventilators or other life support. The company offers various clinical programs that include pulmonary/ventilator, complex medical, transitional rehabilitation and wound management. In August 2010, Solara Healthcare announced a merger with Cornerstone Healthcare Group. Both Cornerstone and Solara are privately owned Dallasbased providers of long-term acute care hospital services.

“The combination of Cornerstone and Solara strengthens both organizations and allows us to enhance the high-quality hospital services we provide,” said Mike Brohm, president and CEO of Cornerstone. Both hospital groups have implemented practices to improve quality of care and patient satisfaction, expand services, and build stronger relationships with physicians. Brohm noted that operational and cost synergies achieved by combining support services enable Cornerstone and Solara to invest in future growth. Cornerstone operates eight hospitals in Texas, Louisiana, Arizona and West Virginia and manages three hospitals in Cleveland, Ohio. Solara operates seven hospitals in Texas and Oklahoma.

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HEALTH CARE

SOUTH TEXAS REHABILITATION HOSPITAL

EDUCATION

BROWNSVILLE INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT District Offices :: 1900 Price Road, Brownsville :: 956-548-8000 :: www.bisd.us

A Closer Look The Brownsville Independent School District (BISD), encompassing 95 square miles, is the largest employer in the Rio Grande Valley. Approximately 7,300 employees have accepted the challenge of serving a population of almost 50,000 students. BISD recognizes and addresses the unique cultural lifestyle of South Texas with a broad selection of activities and programs for all students. These programs range from the Brownsville Early College High School to support programs for students with special needs. Limited English-speaking students are served through the Bilingual or English as a Second Language program. Brownsville ISD high schools have aligned eight magnet programs to 21st-century career forecasts and student interests. These magnet programs all feature a “school within a school” concept that allows students the opportunity to specialize while experiencing a fully rounded high school experience. There is pride in the progress BISD has made in recent years with regard to state-mandated testing. Better scores have translated into more seniors fulfilling degree requirements and completing their basic education with a high school diploma. Academically, both the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools and the Texas Education Agency have accredited Brownsville public schools. Brownsville ISD is committed not only to working with students, but also with the community. The district supports Campus Care Centers to serve the unmet medical needs of school-age children and adolescents. Because no student deserves to go through the school day hungry, BISD features Universal Feeding, Provision Two. This plan provides breakfast and lunch, free of charge, to all students, regardless of income or ability to pay. BROWNSVILLE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

The Brownsville Independent School District uses these elements, and many more, to achieve its mission. Quality education cannot be a vague statement. It must be the challenge that encourages students and educators to be the best that they can be each and every day.

District Highlights • Brownsville ISD is among a select group of districts that have won the prestigious Broad Prize for Urban Education, a $1 million award that annually honors one U.S. school district for making the greatest progress in student achievement. • Brownsville ISD is a nationally recognized chess powerhouse profiled on HBO’s Real Sports with Bryant Gumbel as well as in The New York Times and numerous other state and national publications.

BISD recognizes and addresses the unique cultural lifestyle of South Texas with a broad selection of activities and programs for all students.

ADDITIONAL EDUCATIONAL RESOURCES Brownsville Literacy Center 956-542-8080 :: www.brownsvilleliteracycenter.org Continuing Education Center - UTB 956-882-4174 :: http://wtce.utb.edu

Private Schools Episcopal Day School 956-542-5231 :: www.episcopaldayschool.net

Matthews Institute of Languages 956-412-8483

Guadalupe Regional Middle School 956-504-5568 http://guadalupe.schoolfusion.net

South Texas Vocational Technical Institute 888-509-3584 :: www.stvt.edu

Incarnate Word Academy 956-546-4486 :: http://iw-academy.org

Southern Careers Institute 877-222-7509 :: www.scitexas.edu

Kenmont Montessori School 956-542-0500 :: www.kenmontschool.com

Valley Speech Language & Learning Center 956-504-2200

St. Luke’s Catholic School 956-542-7892 www.stlukescs.org

Villa Maria Language Institute 956-546-7196 :: www.villamarialg.com

St. Mary’s Catholic School 956-546-1805 :: www.stmarys-cs.org

Charter Schools Harmony Science Academy-Brownsville 956-574-9555 :: www.hsabrownsville.org

• All 37 BISD elementary schools feature a quality, full-day pre-kindergarten program. • BISD’s award-winning secondary fine arts program is a state-recognized leader in band, choir, dance, estudiantina, theatre and visual arts. • BISD has again been recognized, for a second consecutive year, as a state finalist for the H-E-B Excellence in Education Early Childhood Award.

Idea Public Schools 956-373-5814 :: www.ideapublicschools.org Premier High School of Brownsville 956-550-0084 http://brownsville.premierhighschools.com

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EDUCATION

• A total of 21 BISD elementary campuses were declared Pre-K Centers of Excellence by the Texas Education Agency in 2012. • All BISD middle schools feature the Science Technology Engineering Math (STEM) Infinity Magnet Program. • Beginning in the 2013–2014 school year, early college academic opportunities expanded to nine BISD secondary campuses.

EDUCATION

THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT BROWNSVILLE H I G H E R E D U C AT I O N C H A N G I N G L I V E S I N T H E R I O G R A N D E V A L L E Y 1 W. University Boulevard, Brownsville :: 956-882-8200 :: www.utb.edu

member of The University of Texas System since 1991, The University of Texas at Brownsville is poised to expand in an unprecedented way to serve future generations in the South Texas/Northeastern Mexico region. In May 2013, the Texas Legislature created a new university in South Texas that will be comprised of UTB; its sister school in Edinburg, The University of Texas Pan American; and a new medical school. The new university will become the second-largest Hispanic Serving Institution in the nation. UTB has seven colleges and schools offering 34 bachelor’s degrees, 21 master’s degrees and a doctoral degree in education with five specialization options. In early 2012, the School of Business was awarded accreditation by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business International. Aside from the Bachelor of Business Administration degree with six focus areas, the Master of Business Administration and the M.B.A. Online, the School of Business offers a dual M.B.A./Master of Public Health in partnership with The University of Texas College of Public Health in Houston. Several departments enjoy outstanding credentials, including the Physics and Astronomy Department, with its Center for Gravitational Wave Astronomy, one of the university’s nine centers of excellence. Opened in fall 2011, the Biomedical Studies and Health Professions Building, a $33.8 million facility, houses the new Department of Biomedicine and selected programs in the College of Biomedical Sciences and Health Professions. BROWNSVILLE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

The Center for Biomedical Studies promotes and conducts research and education on health issues affecting the community, including diabetes, Alzheimer’s disease, neurodegeneration, cancer and nutrition. Since fall 2009, the university has received more than $15 million in new research grant awards. UTB is also home to The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston School of Public Health, Brownsville Campus, housed in the Regional Academic Health Center. The Computer and Information Science Department, with the prestigious ABET accreditation, is the first in Texas to implement the Bachelor of Applied Technology in Computer Information Systems Technology and the first in the state to implement a B.S. in Computational Science. The

33 EDUCATION

department currently hosts one of the largest supercomputing facilities in Texas and one of the largest computer graphics visualization facilities in the country. The universityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s International Innovation and Entrepreneurship Center, designed to help promising new ventures get a solid start, has launched more than 40 companies, providing hundreds of new jobs to the community. Being located on the U.S.â&#x20AC;&#x201C;Mexico border promotes relevant degree programs, among them international business and bilingual/dual-language education studies. The masterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s degree in Spanish translation and interpreting is the only such degree program in Texas and the only completely online program of its kind in the United States. The marine biology and environmental sciences departments benefit greatly from close proximity to the Gulf Coast and the Laguna Madre wetlands, extraordinary hands-on laboratories just a 30-minute drive from campus. The university continues moving forward with a focus on embracing teaching excellence, active inquiry, lifelong learning, rigorous scholarship and research in service to the common good.

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EDUCATION

TEXAS SOUTHMOST COLLEGE 80 Fort Brown Street, Brownsville :: 956-295-3600 :: www.tsc.edu

exas Southmost College (TSC) was initially created in 1926 as The Junior College of the Lower Rio Grande Valley. In 1931, the college name was changed to the Brownsville Junior College and then to Texas Southmost College in 1949. Originally created as an extension of the local independent school district in Brownsville, its first classes were held in the fall of 1926 in the local high school building. On September 1, 1991, Texas Southmost College and The University of Texas-Pan American at Brownsville combined their educational functions with The University of Texas at Brownsville. This resulted in the creation of The University of Texas at Brownsville/Texas Southmost College Partnership. On February 17, 2011, the Texas Southmost College Board of Trustees approved a motion to become an autonomous institution. While Texas Southmost College will continue to work collaboratively with The University of Texas at Brownsville to provide excellent higher education opportunities, it is in the process of re-establishing itself as an independent, fully comprehensive public community college. The vision of Texas Southmost College (TSC) is to be a premier community college dedicated to student success. To that end, TSC is strongly committed to providing an affordable and accessible postsecondary education in a community college setting; to offering a quality education with an emphasis on teaching through outreach programs that include workforce training, continuing education and community service, while promoting cultural values; and an open enrollment philosophy that eliminates conventional barriers to student access of higher education. Texas Southmost College’s mission is guided by a commitment to provide: • University transfer, career and technical programs leading to an associate degree or certificate, along with courses specializing in college preparatory and developmental education, workforce training, adult literacy, and continuing education to support the evolving needs of citizens, industry BROWNSVILLE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

and economic development initiatives within Cameron and Willacy counties. • High-quality instruction and learning opportunities in the classroom, online and through other delivery methods; a supportive and innovative faculty and staff; appropriate technology, equipment and learning resources; and advising and assessment services to promote transfer to a four-year baccalaureate institution, entry or advancement in the workforce, or lifelong learning. • A learning-centered, service-oriented environment that celebrates diversity and inclusion; facilitates growth and development; fosters social responsibility, critical thinking, communication and innovation; and empowers and engages students, faculty and staff to achieve personal and professional goals. • Institutional effectiveness that embraces individual accountability, datadriven decision making, change and an unending pursuit of excellence. TSC offers both certificate and associate degree plans, housed under the divisions of Humanities; Health Care, Career and Technical Education; and Science, Technology, Engineering and Math. Texas Southmost College also provides a unique support network for student success through the division of College Preparatory Studies. The educational structure of Texas Southmost College prepares students to both contribute and compete in an ever-changing environment of local, state, national and global economies. TSC places excellence in educational learning and teaching at the core of its values. To foster excellence, TSC is committed to developing in students an array of life skills, which include critical thinking, the ability to communicate effectively, the promotion of empirical and quantitative skills, and the importance of personal responsibility, as well as social responsibilities. TSC is further committed to preparing students to be lifelong learners for the enhancement of our communities.

35 EDUCATION

KAPLAN COLLEGE 1900 North Expressway, Suite O, Brownsville :: 956-547-8200 :: www.kaplancollege.com/brownsville-tx/

aplan College Brownsville provides career-focused education and helps prepare students to enter the workforce in some of the fastestgrowing industries or advance in their current profession. Through new technologies, a personalized approach to education, flexible schedules, experienced faculty with real-world experience and handson training, the campus opens doors to opportunities and offers various career-focused degree and diploma programs in allied health, information technology and trade fields. The staff and faculty are committed to student success and provide guidance on every aspect of a student’s education, including financial aid, academics, study skills, career services, time management and more. One of the many ways Kaplan College Brownsville supports its students is with the Kaplan Commitment, which allows them to enroll worry-free for three weeks. This gives them the opportunity to attend classes and decide whether they can juggle the rigors of a Kaplan education with their work and family life. If they decide they can’t, they leave with no tuition paid or loans incurred.

Kaplan College Brownsville’s student commitment is also reflected in its Kaplan Certified Professional program, which helps students illustrate they are ready to work and have made an additional effort to acquire the wellrounded skills potential employers seek. The Kaplan Certified Professional program assists in developing professional attitudes, values and skills and allows students to gain the career-readiness edge employers look for in today’s competitive marketplace. Further, Kaplan College Brownsville works closely with local employers to identify area workforce needs. It designs its educational programs to provide in-demand skills so students can have the best opportunity to gain employment upon graduation. The campus also works with employers to create customized curriculum around specific training that the employer seeks to fill open positions. For more information on Kaplan College Brownsville, visit http://www.kaplancollege.com/brownsville-tx/ or call 956-547-8200.

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REAL ESTATE

COME HOME TO BROWNSVILLE Good value for money is a mainstay in Brownsville. Not only are the city’s home prices very reasonable, its composite cost of living is around 89 percent of the U.S. average.

BROWNSVILLE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

ith a population of just over 180,000 and growing, Brownsville is the largest city in the lower Rio Grande Valley. Located about 25 miles inland from the Gulf of Mexico, the city has a pleasant, semi-tropical climate. Brownsville is the seat of Cameron County, and South Padre Island, a popular recreational spot, is minutes away, as is sister city Matamoros, just across the Rio Grande River in Mexico. “It’s a great place to live and a great time to buy,” says George Olivo, president of the Brownsville/South Padre Island Board of REALTORS®. “We have very affordable housing for the square footage you get in our market. We have a great range of residential real estate, from condos and starter homes to spacious single-family homes and luxury homes with all sorts of special amenities.” Good value for money is a mainstay in Brownsville. Not only are the city’s home prices very reasonable, its composite cost of living is around 89 percent of the U.S. average. According to The Real Estate Center at Texas A&M, the median price of a home in Brownsville is $99,500, including single-family homes, townhomes and condominiums. The first quarter of 2013 saw 1,773 new home starts in the Rio Grande Valley, a testament to its continued and growing popularity. In addition to affordability, Brownsville offers a compelling range of architectural styles to choose from. There is plenty of Mexican- and Spanish-influenced architecture of course, but also colonial-style homes in Brownsville’s historic neighborhoods as well as modern designs in certain residential sections. Some of Brownsville’s most desirable home sites are those located near the reservoir waterways known as “resacas.” Brownsville — both its climate and its people — are warm and welcoming, and it’s an ideal city to call home, whether as a young professional, a family starting out, or a retiree looking for an active lifestyle in a great climate. Contact the Chamber of Commerce for a list of member real estate agents to get you started on your search.

he many churches in Brownsville testify to the deep religious grounding of the city’s residents and the vibrant spirit of volunteerism here. The city’s diverse population creates a broad religious profile that includes more than 100 churches and several Christian-affiliated schools. The city is home to several Christian denominations, as well as Jewish, Islamic and other faith families. Giving back to the community is a way of life in the Brownsville area. United Way of Southern Cameron County is the primary public-service umbrella organization for the region. The agency raises funds and encourages volunteerism on behalf of a range of charitable operations, including local chapters of the American Red Cross and Boys and Girls Club, as well as homegrown charities such as Brownsville Society for Crippled Children, Brownsville Adult Literacy Center, and other publically and privately operated educational, health care and assistance programs in the community. The Brownsville business community is an integral element of United Way operations. Volunteers from area businesses act as Employee Campaign Coordinators for United Way fundraising efforts, and the charitable organization’s corporate partners also participate through the Loaned Executive program. “In our community, families and friends stand ready to help each other,” says Traci Wickett, president and CEO of United Way of Southern Cameron County. “That spirit of solidarity is also exhibited in our willingness to volunteer to advance the common good. In Brownsville, we all pull together when something needs to get done.”

“In our community, families and friends stand ready to help each other. In Brownsville, we all pull together when something needs to get done.”

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WORSHIP & COMMUNITY SERVICE

FAITH & FRIENDSHIP IN ACTION

38 DISCOVER HISTORIC BROWNSVILLE

STRONG HISTORY; BRIGHT FUTURE

rownsville’s South Texas location has played an important role in both the history and the progress of the community. Known as the “Crossroads of the Hemisphere,” Brownsville is the only city on the border that offers four methods of international transportation: water, rail, highway and air. This area near the Rio Grande saw action in 1846 during the first battles of the Mexican War. Led by Gen. Zachary Taylor, those American victories established that land north of the Rio Grande was part of the United States. In 1848, a U.S. Army post known as Fort Brown was established. The fort was named after Maj. Jacob Brown, who had died in nearby fighting during the Mexican War. A new community was established adjacent to the fort and was named Brownsville in his honor. During the Civil War, Brownsville and Fort Brown saw even more military action. The Confederacy exported cotton to markets in Europe, and the Union blockaded all Southern ports. Cotton was moved overland to the Rio Grande, then across into Mexico, where it was loaded onto waiting ships. Both Union and Confederate troops occupied Fort Brown at times; Confederate troops helped with the cotton trade, while Union troops tried to stop it. Brownsville’s population and economy grew because of the cotton trade, but local military action caused turmoil in the area. Largely because of its geographic isolation, Brownsville developed slowly after the Civil War, with a population of around 5,000. Most transportation was by ocean shipping, but stagecoach service was also available. Steamboat service on the Rio Grande moved people and cargo to and from the coast and up the river for 100 miles or so, depending on water levels. Locals engaged in ranching, farming and trading with communities in Mexico, but there was considerable border unrest, along with cattle rustling by bandits. The year 1904 brought railroad service to the area, providing the first convenient transportation to and from the rest of the country. Attracted by the warm climate and year-round growing season, prospective residents came by train from other states to inspect this newly opened country, known as the Lower Rio Grande Valley. Agriculture became a major industry, and the area’s farmers produced citrus and vegetables. By 1930 the city had grown to more than 20,021 residents, with much of this growth occurring during the prosperous 1920s. During this period, Brownsville took steps to establish itself as a modern city. The many improvements included paved streets, a junior college, a municipal

BROWNSVILLE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

airport, a second bridge across the Rio Grande to Mexico, a multi-story hotel, a radio station, and numerous churches and schools. Like the entire nation, Brownsville suffered during the Depression, but the community had resources to pull through. A significant event in Brownsville history was the development of The Port of Brownsville, which opened in 1936. By 1950, Brownsville’s population topped 36,000. At The Port of Brownsville, a large fleet of shrimp boats operated, and chemical plants were built. The 1950s saw increased trade with Mexico, and an increase in Mexican citizens crossing the border to shop in Brownsville. The latter half of the 20th century was a time of continued growth and progress. Brownsville’s population grew to 98,962 by 1980 and to 107,027 in 1990. By 2010 it reached 175,023. This progress was due to more trade with Mexico, more tourism, more industrial development and the increasing number of retirees choosing the area. The establishment of maquiladora plants in nearby Matamoros, Mexico, also contributed to economic growth. Today, Brownsville is home to more scientists, researchers and engineers, thanks to local and state incentives and the university. By attracting highly educated professionals and a skilled workforce, the city is poised to expand with newer, advanced technologies; innovative new ideas; and more hightech jobs. In more than 160 years of Brownsville history, the city has endured numerous challenges: hurricanes, freezes, droughts and Mexican peso devaluations. But progress has gained momentum in the 21st century. Competing with over 40 Texas communities, the Imagine Brownsville Comprehensive Plan received the 2009 Comprehensive Planning Award from the American Planning Association’s Texas chapter. The strategic plan, carefully developed with input from citizens, planning experts and numerous city organizations, defines a vision for the community for the next 10 years and establishes an implementation strategy for achieving long-term goals. Now known as United Brownsville, the plan, which is being used by city leaders as a blueprint for future growth, includes the integration of land use, drainage, transportation, utilities, parks, downtown revitalization and economic development. Special thanks to Mr. Carl S. Chilton for his assistance with this article.

39 DISCOVER HISTORIC BROWNSVILLE

PRESERVING OUR HERITAGE Brownsville Historical Association 1325 E. Washington, Brownsville 956-541-5560 :: www.brownsvillehistory.org

The Brownsville Historical Association (BHA) serves the community by acting as “guardian of the past” (guardia del pasado), displaying the city’s heritage in museums and historic structures, and providing educational and cultural programs and events. BHA is a First Lady’s Texas Treasures Award winner, an honor bestowed by The Texas Historical Commission. Its major components include: • The Brownsville Heritage Complex is the heart of Brownsville’s historic sensibility. Operated by Brownsville Historical Association, the Complex contains the Brownsville Heritage Museum, Stillman House Museum, The Aiken Education Center, The Heritage Resource Center, and The Children’s Cultural and Learning Center. • Brownsville Heritage Museum honors the area’s history in photographs, artifacts and interactive displays. It has achieved the Texas Historical Commission’s Award of Merit and hosts numerous events throughout the year. • The Stillman House Museum is in the original home of the founder of Brownsville, Charles Stillman. Built in 1850, it is one of the oldest surviving structures in the city. It’s a Texas Historic Landmark and has earned

a spot on the National Register of Historic Places. • The Alonso Building dates to 1877, illustrating in its architecture Brownsville’s historic Creole influences. It serves as a location for exhibits and public events and as the BHA administrative office. • The Southmost Heritage Center, located at the Urban Center in Tony Gonzalez Park and jointly operated by BHA and Brownsville Parks and Recreation Department, offers workshops and exhibitions. • The Brownsville 21 Project provides selfguided walking tours of some of the city’s most important historical sites, with information kiosks and photo murals along the way.

other WWII-era artifacts, many supplied by families in the area. The museum is closed from May to October, but group tours are available by appointment any time of year.

Historic Brownsville Museum 641 E. Madison Street, Brownsville 956-548-1313 :: www.brownsvillemuseum.org

Housed in a 1928 Southern Pacific railroad depot, the Historic Brownsville Museum offers a variety of intriguing permanent and rotating

Commemorative Air Force Museum – Rio Grande Valley Wing Brownsville/South Padre Island International Airport 955 S. Minnesota Avenue, Brownsville 956-541-8585 :: www.RGVWingCAF.com

The Rio Grande Valley Wing of the Commemorative Air Force is dedicated to honoring the men and women who served in World War II, providing historic artifacts and information to educate the public about the world-shaping conflict. The group operates a museum at the Brownsville/South Padre Island International Airport that features nine fully functional WWII flight trainers, five liaison aircraft and two transport aircraft on display in hangars, as well as www.brownsvillechamber.com

DISCOVER HISTORIC BROWNSVILLE

exhibits that interpret events from Brownsville’s history. One feature exhibit is a Baldwin woodburning, narrow-gauge railroad locomotive, the last of its kind in the world. The museum’s collections also include historical treasures such as artifacts from the Mexican-American War, farming and ranching tools, and a hand-carved mahogany bedroom set (circa 1850). The Historic Brownsville Museum building is a fine example of Spanish Colonial Revival architecture and has received Texas Historical Marker and National Register of Historic Places designations.

home to numerous historical documents as well as historical costumes, furniture, fine art, and the extensive Backal Collection of oil and canvas paintings. Market Square showcases the work of Frederic Remington and Charles Russell in its permanent “Into the Wild West” exhibit. The Market Square Research Center is open to scholars and amateur researchers by appointment.

houses the Children’s Museum of Brownsville and the Costumes of the Americas Museum. This distinctive area’s history-related sites also include the Brownsville Historic City Cemetery and the Historic Brownsville Museum.

Mitte Cultural District

Market Square Research Center

A number of Brownsville’s premier cultural attractions, including two with significant historical resonance, are located between 6th and 7th streets near Dean Porter Park. The area has been designated the Mitte Cultural District in honor of benefactors Roy F. and Joann Cole Mitte. The Mitte Cultural Education Center

The Old City Cemetery Center, in the heart of Brownsville’s Mitte Cultural District, presents permanent exhibitions focused on Brownsville’s historic Old City Cemetery, along with rotating exhibitions focused on local folk art. Established in 1853, the cemetery is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is recognized as an outstanding historical landmark by the Texas Historical Commission. The facility also houses the Escandon Genealogy Collection. The Old City Cemetery Center is managed by the Brownsville Historical Association and is free to the public.

1150 Market Square Downtown, Brownsville 956-546-4242 www.brownsvillehistory.org/Research_Center.html

Market Square houses one of the largest South Texas photograph collections in the Rio Grande Valley. This BHA archive facility is also

Between 6th and 7th Streets near Dean Porter Park, Brownsville www.mitteculturaldistrict.org

Old City Cemetery Center 600 E. Jackson, Brownsville 956-541-1167 :: www.brownsvillehistory.com

Palo Alto Battlefield National Historical Park Intersection of FM 1847/Paredes Line Road and FM 511/FM 550 956-541-2785 :: www.nps.gov/paal/index.htm

The first battle of the Mexican-American War was fought on this broad prairie, now preserved as the 3,400-acre Palo Alto Battlefield National Historical Park. The park contains the Palo Alto Battlefield Unit, a National Historic Landmark and the very spot where the artillery duel that opened the war took place on May 8, 1846. The historical park also has a half-mile walking trail to a battlefield overlook with interpretive wayside exhibits that tell the tale of the military struggle. Living history demonstrations, ranger walks and other special programs are held throughout much of the year.

Resaca de la Palma Battlefield 1024 Paredes Line, Brownsville 956-541-2785 www.nps.gov/paal/historyculture/resacadelapalma.htm

Just six miles from the Palo Alto Battlefield National Historical Park is the site of the second battle of the Mexican-American War — The Resaca de la Palma Battlefield. On May 9, 1846, Gen. Zachary Taylor took on Mexican forces under Gen. Mariano Arista in the Battle of Resaca de la Palma. The 34-acre site, technically a part of Palo Alto Battlefield National Historical Park, was recently acquired by the National Park Service. NPS is beginning the developmental planning stages for the minimally developed National Historic Landmark, which currently has a short trail with informational wayside stations. BROWNSVILLE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

41 ARTS & CULTURE

FOR CONTEMPLATION & CELEBRATION Performing Arts Brownsville Society for the Performing Arts 956-831-9590 :: www.artsinbrownsville.org

Brownsville Society for the Performing Arts (BSPA) has produced hundreds of music, dance and cultural events since 1994, including a Halloween Hansel & Gretal opera and the traditional Handel’s Messiah Christmas performance, boasting a live orchestra and 100-plus of the area’s most talented vocalists. The Society launched the popular Brownsville Latin Jazz Festival, now in its 17th year, and cofounded with UTB/TSC the Brownsville Guitar Ensemble Festival, approaching its 13th year. In addition, BSPA provides scholarships to gifted UTB/TSC music students and is one of the largest donors to the UTB/TSC Patron of the Arts season. The organization is actively involved in revitalizing Historic Downtown Brownsville through efforts such as the Capitol Theatre Restoration Project.

TSC Arts Center 80 Fort Brown, Brownsville 956-295-3385

The TSC Arts Center at Texas Southmost College is the premier venue for performing arts in the Rio Grande Valley. The world-class center boasts an 800-seat auditorium, sophisticated acoustics and a stage that can host up to 150 musicians. Rooted on the campus watercourse — across from the historic Fort Brown complex — the center has become a locus for the arts in

the Brownsville community, with its dramatic exterior and interior and a grand lobby that does double duty as a visual arts gallery.

Camille Playhouse 1 Dean Porter Park, Brownsville 956-542-8900 :: www.camilleplayhouse.org

Camille Playhouse offers perpetual productions, including plays, musicals and special events. Erected via the bountiful generosity of the community, the playhouse has become exceptionally vibrant. The 2013–2014 season featured Gypsy, God of Carnage, Shrek the Musical, The Producers, Steel Magnolias, The Little Mermaid and A Streetcar Named Desire. Workshops for children ages 7–12 teach the magic of acting, makeup, set construction and costume design. It’s “Bringing Broadway to Brownsville,” indeed.

Museums Brownsville Museum of Fine Art 660 E. Ringgold Street, Brownsville 956-542-0941 :: http://brownsvillemfa.org

Opposite Gladys Porter Zoo in the city’s Mitte Cultural District, Brownsville Museum of Fine Art welcomes guests to its 17,000-square-foot, permanent exhibition gallery, touting names such as Daumier, Chagall, Whistler and Samuelson. The museum also hosts paintings and sculptures from traveling exhibitions and regional artists. Myriad educational offerings, workshops and lectures for all ages are offered in nonstop rotation. Open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday and

Tuesday; 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Wednesday; and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Thursday through Saturday.

Children’s Museum of Brownsville 501 Ringgold St., #5 Dean Porter Park, Brownsville 956-548-9300 :: www.cmofbrownsville.com

A favored family destination from its 2005 inception, this kid-friendly museum offers a fun environment for children to relish diverse adventures, including interactive displays, story hours, field trips and summer camps. Daily and weekend workshops feature themed activities and crafts, with visits from compelling guests such as park rangers, chefs and artists. Themed exhibits include All World’s Café, Under The Sea, Construction Zone, Dance With Me/Future Artists of America Gallery, Dr. Bones Health Clinic, Texas Farmhouse, The Plaza and KRGV Channel 5 First Warn Weather Station. Brite’s Gift Shop extends affordable toys to delight and stimulate children of all ages.

Costumes of the Americas Museum 501 Ringgold Street, #5 Dean Porter Park, Brownsville 956-547-6890 :: www.costumesoftheamericasmuseum.net

As part of the Mitte Cultural Education Center at Dean Porter Park, the Costumes of the Americas Museum houses one of the world’s largest collections of indigenous, authentic garments and accessories. Bessie Kirkland Johnson brought her collection of authentic Mexican costumes and handicrafts to Brownsville in 1932, and over the years the exhibits have grown to include more than 400 costumes from the entire Western www.brownsvillechamber.com

ARTS & CULTURE

Hemisphere, from Alaska, Canada and Mexico to the southernmost regions of South America, plus several Caribbean countries. Highlighting captivating facts and tidbits of trivia for each country represented, the museum gives visitors an opportunity to discover many traditions and glimpse styles of dress from throughout history.

to aviation-themed apparel and accessories are for sale, and an arts and crafts show with food kiosks all join to offer a great experience for the entire family. Funds raised at the annual show help defray costs of operating the Wing Museum and maintaining the collection of aircraft.

Festivals & Events

956-882-7527 :: www.utb.edu/guitarfestival

Charro Days 455 E. Elizabeth Street, Brownsville 956-542-4245 :: www.charrodaysfiesta.com

Charro Days, one of the biggest celebrations in the Rio Grande Valley, will celebrate its milestone 77th anniversary in 2014. The weeklong late-February festival honors the friendship joining Brownsville with its south-of-the-border neighbor, Matamoros, Mexico. Locals don native Mexican apparel, and festival participants delight in a variety of events on both sides of the border, including a street carnival, tortilla-eating competitions, parades, fireworks, boat races, bullfighting, a rodeo and a grand ball. The coronation of Mr. Amigo honors a famous Mexican entertainer, politician or other local celebrity who participates as a friendship ambassador in festival events.

Sombrero Festival 956-550-9682 :: www.sombrerofestival.com

One of the Rio Grande Valley’s most popular family events, this three-day festival, held in Washington Park, takes place the last weekend in February during Charro Days. It features music and entertainment, cook-off events, dozens of food stands, and great challenge events in the tortilla Frisbee toss, waiters race, jalapeñoeating contest and grito contest. Since the event bowed in 1986, organizers have reinvested nearly $2 million in the community through direct expense, donations to nonprofit organizations and direct donations for tourism, beautification and recreation venues in Brownsville. Staffed entirely by volunteers, the festival attracts more than 40,000 attendees each year.

Air Fiesta Brownsville/SPI International Airport 700 Amelia Earhart Drive 956-542-4373 :: www.rgvwingcaf.com/airfiesta

Vintage World War II planes hurtling through dazzling stunts performed by aerobatic teams are the highlight of this mid-March air show organized by the Commemorative Air Force, Rio Grande Valley Wing. Spectators get a chance to see incredible aerial battle re-enactments and view modern warplanes such as the F-15 and F-18. Collectibles from plane models and posters BROWNSVILLE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Guitar Ensemble Festival The Guitar Festival Ensemble is a yearly event produced by the Brownsville Society for the Performing Arts and UTB/TSC for more than 10 years. Arriving the last week of March, it attracts guitar groups from more than 40 cities. UTB/TSC is the leading university in the United States for guitar-teacher training for classical players and has also earned national recognition for its training program for performers. The festival includes concerts by respected national and international classical artists, master classes, and clinics. During the three-day festival, the public is admitted for free to daily acoustic guitar competitions held at the Arts Center.

Brownsville Latin Jazz Festival 956-831-9590

The four-day Brownsville Latin Jazz Festival takes place annually in mid-October, drawing Latin jazz and dance aficionados from across the world. Showcasing eminent jazz artists and highlighting local musicians, the internationally acclaimed event originated in 1997 by hosting Tito Puente. Sponsored by The Brownsville Society for the Performing Arts, the festival promotes multicultural diversity and features a variety of musical genres. Prior performers have included Latin jazz greats Poncho Sanchez, Eddie Palmieri, Larry Harlow and the Spanish Harlem Orchestra, among others. Latin Dance Night, a highlight of the event, features dance exhibitions led by champion dancers.

Rio Grande Valley Birding Festival 800-531-7346 :: www.rgvbf.org

The Rio Grande Valley Birding Festival, held mid-November in nearby Harlingen, has been held yearly for 20 years. The four-day festival features an extensive program of educational seminars, workshops, guided field trips, vendors, youth programs and social events to help nature lovers make the most of bird-watching opportunities in the Valley. Expert-led tours of local birding centers give participants superb views of some of the world’s most resplendent birds. Other activities include boat trips (weather permitting) around South Padre Island for a close look at marine fowl and canoe excursions on the Arroyo Colorado.

Other Annual Events • Fireworks Over The Bay is a fireworks extravaganza at South Padre Island, ignited from a barge in the center of the bay every Friday night from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Pyrotechnic launch is 9:15 p.m. • July 4th Celebration features a parade in historic downtown Brownsville and a celebration at Brownsville Sports Park. • Cinesol Film Festival is a celebration of Latin films held at several venues throughout the Rio Grande Valley in September. • Festival Internacional de Otoño is held in Matamoros in October. Featuring an array of world-class performers, concerts take place at the city’s main square, the Reforma Theatre and Mundo Nuevo Convention Center. • Day of the Dead (Dia de los Muertos) Festival, sponsored by the Brownsville Historical Association, is held at the Old City Cemetery Center in late autumn. • Fiesta of Lights Parade is held in Brownsville’s downtown district in conjunction with the annual Christmas Tree Lighting at Washington Park, kicking off the holiday season in early December.

Bentsen-Rio Grande Valley State Park 2800 S. Bentsen Palm Drive (FM 2062), Mission 956-584-9156 :: http://theworldbirdingcenter.com

Serving as headquarters for the World Birding Center, this popular park, 50 miles from Brownsville, is known as one of the top birding sites in the country. Home to many birds found only in South Texas, the 760-acre site, combined with 1,700 acres of adjoining U.S. Fish and Wildlife refuge tracts, offers one of the richest birding areas north of the Mexican border.

South Padre Island Birding and Nature Center 6801 Padre Boulevard, South Padre Island 956-243-8179 :: www.spibirding.com

Boasting a five-story tower with magnificent views of the Laguna Madre Bay, beaches and dunes of South Padre Island, the Nature Center offers seven bird blinds, more than 4,800 linear feet of boardwalk, a gift shop and an auditorium screening nature films.

Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge Highway 106 and Buena Vista Road, Rio Hondo 956-748-3607 :: www.friendsofsouthtexasrefuges.org

This wildlife refuge 20 miles northeast of Brownsville is famous for exotic birds, butterflies and wildlife such as alligators, armadillos, endangered ocelot, Texas tortoise and javelina. Visitors may view the park from trails for hiking, autos and bicycling and on guided tram tours.

Sabal Palm Sanctuary Sabal Palm Road, Brownsville 956-541-8034 :: sabalpalmsanctuary.org

Sabal Palm Sanctuary is 527 acres of native plants — including one of the last vestiges of original Sabal Palm forest — and animals not found elsewhere in the United States. Nestled in a bend of the Rio Grande along the nation’s border, the park is an abode for hummingbirds, hooded orioles, green kingfishers and countless others along its three miles of breathtaking footpaths.

have the option of hiking 12 miles of foot trails or enjoying a seven-mile wildlife drive on a guided tour. Contact visitor center for dates and times.

Resaca de la Palma State Park 1000 New Carmen Boulevard, Brownsville 956-350-2920 :: theworldbirdingcenter.com/Resaca.html

Resaca de la Palma, on the Rio Grande River Delta at the southern tip of Texas, offers a 3.5mile paved loop that wends through the park, four observation decks overlooking four miles of resaca, bicycle rentals and a shaded picnic pavilion. Bird devotees will enjoy many rare migrants as well as local species, including the plain chachalaca, altamira oriole, green jay and groove-billed ani, which utilize the park’s diverse habitats. Visitors can explore upward of 10 miles of nature trails or relax on the tram as it travels through one of the most well-preserved ecosystems in Texas. The park also features a visitors center with state-of-the-art meeting facilities, gift shop and bird blinds.

Los Ebanos Preserve 27715 Highway 100, San Benito 956-399-9097 :: www.losebanospreserve.com

This privately owned nature park proffers tropical landscaping and many varieties of palm trees. Trails winding through the property take visitors past butterfly gardens and a lake flourishing with several types of waterfowl. Guests may explore self-guided pathways by appointment or observe birds and butterflies from lakeside benches.

Santa Ana National Wildlife Refuge 3325 Green Jay, Alamo 956-784-7521 :: www.friendsofsouthtexasrefuges.org

Extending more than 2,000 acres, this refuge on the banks of the lower Rio Grande hosts 260 butterfly species and more than 400 types of birds, mixed with armadillos, bobcats, coyotes, long-tailed weasels and indigo snakes. Visitors www.brownsvillechamber.com

WHERE THE WILD THINGS ARE

n Brownsville, bird-watching peaks in fall and spring, when hundreds of bird species migrate to the Rio Grande Valley; but winter months can also yield ample viewing opportunities. Popular bird-watching sites include Tamaulipas Crow Park, the Sabal Palm Audubon Sanctuary, the Boca Chica dunes and wetlands, and the city’s resacas, spanning 1,700 acres. Preserves dotting the region offer habitat for birds and a plethora of flora and fauna. The World Birding Center, operated by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, is a network of nine sites along 120 miles of river road from South Padre Island West to Roma, with habitats from dry chaparral brush and verdant riverside thickets to freshwater marshes and coastal wetlands.

BROWNSVILLE IS FOR THE BIRDERS

WHERE THE WILD THINGS ARE

GLADYS PORTER ZOO E

nsconced in central Brownsville, Gladys Porter Zoo was donated to the city 40 years ago by the Earl C. Sams Foundation. More than 375,000 people visit annually, marvelling at the 1,600 animals and 26 acres of lush tropical plants. The zoo is divided into Africa, Asia, Tropical America and Indo-Australia zones. One of the newest attractions, Giraffe Landing Feeding Experience, allows visitors to perch on a special platform to safely view and feed the giraffe herd. The recently renovated South American Free-Flight Aviary allows close encounters with 18 species from the Southern Hemisphere, including green aracaris, macaws, trumpeters, roseate spoonbills, scarlet ibis and more. Other exhibits include a Herpetarium and Aquatic Wing, Bear Grottos, California Sea Lions, and Realm of the Dragon, an exhibit of the unique and endangered Komodo dragon. The South Texas Botanical Exhibit and Park offers an enchanted South Texas playground nestled in an area landscaped with native plants. Summer Safari greets children with a daycamp environment to enjoy great group activities, including crafts, puppet shows and tours. Other family events include Boo at the Zoo in October and Zoo Nights and Lights in December. Guest amenities include The Asian Grille, countless concession stands, a nursery and a gift shop. The special train tour Safari Express rides the rails on Sundays. The zoo participates in numerous conservation projects to preserve threatened species such as Kempâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ridley sea turtles, western lowland gorillas and Philippine crocodiles. Gladys Porter also actively supports the American Zoo and Aquarium Associationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Species Survival Plan to help ensure the continued existence of several wildlife species.

BROWNSVILLE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

rownsville is blessed by marvelous weather year-round, presenting a wide diversity of recreational opportunities. Fishing, swimming, boating and other water sports keep aquatic-minded souls happily occupied during the warm, sunlit days. A variety of courses offer picturesque golf, both challenging and forgiving. Brownsville also offers an awesome assortment of parks for connoisseurs of nature and sports. The vast variety of recreational activities makes Brownsville a wonderful place to visit, vacation and live.

• Peaceful bay fishing can be found at the bays of Port Isabel and South Padre Island. • Deep-sea fishing is an option as well; boats may be chartered in the Gulf. • Brownsville’s outlying areas offer many fishing locations, including Falcon Lake, Arroyo Colorado and Laguna Madre.

Brownsville City Parks & Recreation Facilities 1338 E. 8th Street, Brownsville 956-542-2064 :: http://parks.cob.us

Fishing Brownsville’s remarkable location means line-casters can enjoy both freshwater and saltwater fishing. The many options include sport fishing, charter boats, pier fishing, and surf and offshore fishing. • Brownsville Ship Channel allows fishing in two areas and is known for speckled trout, snook and redfish. • Resacas, former channels of the Rio Grande, are unique to the area and provide a broad array of fishing opportunities. Those fishing in area resacas have caught bass, trout and catfish, year-round. • Surf fishing may be found within a 20-mile drive at beaches brimming with fish, including whiting and flounder.

Brownsville’s beauty is showcased and enhanced by its many parks. The Parks and Recreation Department manages 30 parks encompassing over 1,000 acres of parkland, with a tempting variety of features that includes 23 miles of hike/bike trails, three gymnasiums and pools, 50 buildings and structures, over 55 athletics fields, and for those with four-legged friends, the Catherine Stillman Dog Park. On any given day, city residents and visitors can watch or participate in soccer, baseball, football, softball, mountain biking, golf, volleyball, kickball, swimming and disc golf. The following facilities are just a few among the many highlights. Check out the department’s website for more information on all facilities offered.

DEAN PORTER PARK 501 Ringgold Street, Brownsville

gem of the city’s park system and one of its largest facilities, Dean Porter Park, located along a scenic Resaca, is an ideal gathering space.

The park offers two enclosed, climate-controlled pavilions that seat 500. An outdoor pavilion holding 800 people provides excellent barbecue facilities, while individual grilling and picnic areas are perfect for smaller family gatherings. Dean Porter Park offers plenty to keep you energized. A variety of playground equipment includes facilities for kids with physical challenges. Sam’s Memorial Pool and water playground are perfect on bright Texas summer days, while a walking and fitness trail blends motivation and natural attraction. For those interested in a more relaxed outing, the park is also home to Brownsville Children’s Museum, Costumes of the Americas, Camille Lightner Playhouse and the Butterfly Garden.

www.brownsvillechamber.com

OUTDOOR RECREATION

EXPLORE THIS TEXAS TREASURE

OUTDOOR RECREATION

CycloBia BROWNSVILLE

ver wish you could clear the streets of traffic to enjoy a more leisurely stroll, a relaxing bike ride, fast and free rollerblading, or an old-fashioned game of stickball or street hockey? Well now you can in Brownsville, during the city’s annual CycloBia events. Originating in Bogatá, Columbia, Ciclovía temporarily closed eight miles of city streets so residents could freely enjoy the space for exercise and games. The event became so popular that the city now closes some 70 miles of roadways. Brownsville has imported the idea, closing a rectangular area from Palm Boulevard to East 12th Street and from East Adams to East Charles. While there is an official biking route, it’s not a race or competitive event; there’s no fixed start, and riders are welcome to enter and exit at any point, in their own time and at their own pace. In addition to bicycling, organizers invite participants to “bring a soccer ball, a football, a basketball, a Frisbee” or “anything that will get you moving.” Pets on leashes are also welcome. At several Reclovías, or gathering points, there are group activities, games, concessions, restrooms, music, a bike raffle and other giveaways, and more. For more information on this unique event dedicated to fitness, fun and community, visit www.cyclobiabrownsville.com.

Brownsville Sports Park 1000 Sports Park Boulevard, off 77/83 at the Merryman Road Exit

Capacious Brownsville Sports Park has been an exhilarating supplement to the region, blessed with all the amenities millions of economic votes can supply. The park, only a dream in 2002, had its groundbreaking in 2006. It now welcomes the masses while continuing to be improved. Accommodating more than 200,000 visitors, 2,500 games and dozens of tournaments and events each year, the park boasts: • Ten full-size, lighted, multi-sport fields • One full-size, lighted, multi-sports turf field • Five full-size, lighted, softball/baseball fields • A BMX bike track • A large skate park with concrete bowl • A paved walking/jogging trail • Three outdoor basketball courts • Two lakes, one covering five acres • Two party pavilions • A playground area • Five sand volleyball courts The park attracts larger sporting events with newly constructed, shaded stands that seat 4,000, which lured a high-school soccer tournament that had been held in San Antonio every year since 1983. Regular programs are offered for youth and adults in basketball, flag football, football, soccer, softball and volleyball.

Brownsville Tennis Center 3 Event Center Boulevard 956-547-8326 :: brownsvilletenniscenter.com

Brownsville Tennis Center features 15 fully lighted, all-weather courts (including two stadium courts); a full-service pro shop; dressing rooms; a lobby; meeting room; vending area; and veranda.

Southern Pacific Linear Park 600 E. Harrison Street

Brownsville’s fascinating history makes Southern Pacific Linear Park a must-experience. With smooth trails for hiking and biking, the park takes visitors from the former Southern Pacific rail line from Harrison Street to the entrance of Palo Alto Battlefield (a baker’s dozen miles one way). The route offers exquisite scenery, picnicking and a caboose from the Rio Grande Railroad.

Boca Chica Beach For those preferring beaches that lack noisome commercialization, Boca Chica Beach is perfect. Pristinely endowed with an unspoiled stretch of creation, Boca Chica Beach lures visitors to discover birding, dolphin viewing, surf casting, snorkeling, kiteboarding, shelling and beach diving — and that’s just scraping the surface. This unspoiled beach is state-owned; though technically a park, there is no park infrastructure to limit seekers of a more natural state. An easy drive from Brownsville on Route 4 east brings sojourners to this beautiful shore.

Golf In a land bathed in sun hundreds of days each year, golf is rarely slowed by mere weather. With a great number of courses for your consideration, the natural terrain provides a special challenge; resacas and lakes test the mettle of even accomplished golfers. There are lighted driving ranges to

BROWNSVILLE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Brownsville Golf Center 1800 W. San Marcelo Boulevard, Brownsville 956-541-2582 :: parks.cob.us/brownsville-golf-center

A public, 18-hole municipal course, Brownsville Golf Center’s course features a par of 70 and 6,049 yards of golf from the blue tees. Wide-open fairways are welcome on the challenging holes, with water continuously in

play. The course has a driving range and putting/chipping practice areas, as well as a pro shop and snack bar.

Rancho Viejo Resort & Country Club 1 Rancho Viejo Drive, Rancho Viejo 956-350-4000 :: rvrcc.com

Because one 18-hole championship course is not enough, Rancho Viejo has one on each shoulder — El Angel and El Diablo — two distinct, par-70 rounds of golf amidst a lush, tropical landscape. A host of luxuries await before and after a round … and plenty enough fun to ensure merry faces when you return.

River Bend Resort, Inc. 4541 U.S. Military Highway 281, Brownsville 956-548-0194 :: riverbendresort.us

This resplendent design along the banks of the Rio Grande has been named among Golf Digest’s “Best Places to Play.” With a slightly unusual (but welcome!) five sets of tees, the 18-hole, par-72 River Bend is open to the public. The fully stocked pro shop is open daily.

Valley International Country Club 95 Country Club Drive, Brownsville 956-546-5331 :: valleyinternationalcountryclub.com

With an award-winning, championship 18-hole course amongst the resacas and a handy par-3 nine, this semiprivate club, naturally, offers the finest pro shop and bar/grill.

www.brownsvillechamber.com

47 OUTDOOR RECREATION

help golfers refine their swing, and pro shops offer tools for the discerning duffer. The Brownsville Chamber of Commerce has exceptional courses among its membership.

NEAR NEIGHBORS

MATAMOROS & SOUTH PADRE ISLAND

inking arms with Brownsville’s charms are two splendid neighbors: Matamoros, Mexico, and South Padre Island. Matamoros is an important economic engine but also a great day-trip destination with history, shopping, dining and a warm south-of-the-border welcome. South Padre Island is a perennial spring-break destination and has been named “America’s Best Family Beach” by the Travel Channel. This resort playground offers a beguiling assortment of activities and fabulous dining along with a variety of natural beauty and wildlife.

Matamoros Beautiful Matamoros beckons from across the Big River. This friendly neighbor offers modern services, top-flight hotels, distinguished restaurants, and many historic and cultural attractions. Guests and residents alike flock to the Main Plaza on weekends to enjoy cultural events and sample the wares of street vendors.

Casamata Museum, the last of 10 forts that once protected the city, was saved as a museum with sabers, bullets, cannons, uniforms, photographs, a newspaper archive and other artifacts from 1810 through 1920.

Shopping Mexican arts and crafts, jewelry, and leather goods are the specialty of shops and markets at Avenida Obregon, just across the Gateway International Bridge. Juarez Market, on 9th Street between Abasolo and Matamoros streets, is the largest shopping center in the city, with more than 100 shops.

Dining Classic Mexican fare, regional seafood dishes and hearty steaks beckon visitors who are sure to be satisfied in Matamoros. The dining experience gains added dimension with costumed servers and mariachi music.

Historic Attractions

Festivals

In the heart of town, Plaza Hidalgo offers nonpareil architecture. Visitors can discover a marvelous 1825 cathedral and refurbished historic buildings such as the Casino Matamorense. City Hall, recently restored to its 1800s architecture, is open for tours. The Main Plaza and City Hall may be found at 6th Street between Gonzalez and Abasolo streets.

Annual festivals include the Semana Santa at Easter, Mexican Independence Day in September, the Festival Internacional de Otono in October, and the Day of the Dead in November. In December, the city is adorned in Christmas lights.

BROWNSVILLE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

For More Information www.visitmatamoros.com

49 Family Fun

Boasting one of America’s top 10 beaches, the sandy shores of South Padre Island provide a model playground for water sports, horseback riding, golf, spa days and shopping. A mere 25 minutes from Brownsville, the 34-mile stretch of white sand is touched in the east by the Gulf of Mexico and to the west by Laguna Madre Bay. Miles of unspoiled island terrain and modern resort conveniences draw countless visitors each year. Beach homes, luxury hotels, condominiums and motels await lucky guests.

There is no shortage of family activities on South Padre Island, from erecting sandcastles to flying kites, sailing on a pirate ship, and renting waverunners. Adventurous sorts may revel in Gravity Adventure Park, featuring Rocket, the world’s tallest reverse bungee. Special events include Friday night fireworks, a farmers market on Sundays, annual art shows, fishing tournaments and holiday-themed festivals.

Nature & Wildlife

For More Information

A premier location makes South Padre Island one of the choicest spots in the United States to observe wildlife. The Laguna Madre Nature Trail offers 1,500 feet of boardwalk where visitors may observe birds and animals in their natural habitat. The Dolphin and Nature Research Center provides an educational look at sea creatures and encourages interactive participation. Many tours give visitors prime spots for snorkeling and dolphin watching.

www.sopadre.com

Shopping, Dining, & Nightlife Scads of restaurants and nightclubs offer live music, dancing and fabulous food. Seafood, Caribbean and Mexican dishes thrill the palate, while steaks, burgers and sandwiches are casual options. Shoppers find an immense variety of swimwear and surf gear, souvenirs, trendy fashions and accessories, home décor, and books at the many gift shops and boutiques around the island.

Our Motto is... “Complete Service” Means More Services

U.S. Custom Broker ••• Mexican Custom Broker ••• Transportation Fleet Mgmt. National Transport Brokers ••• Rail Car Service ••• Air Shipments Transportation Needs Analysis ••• Maritime Shipments Barge & Ship Handling

www.brownsvillechamber.com

NEAR NEIGHBORS

South Padre Island

INDEX OF ADVERTISERS & PREFERRED BUSINESS LISTINGS

THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT ACCOUNTANTS

ATTORNEYS

Jaguar Land Rover San Juan

Burton, McCumber & Cortez, LLP — See ad on Page 3 1950 Paredes Line Road Brownsville, TX 78521 (956) 542-2553....................fax (956) 542-8940 www.bmctexas.com

A full-service international accounting and management consulting firm serving clients in the U.S. and Mexico since 1991. Visit us at our website, www.bmctexas.com.

CHURCHES

Davidson, Troilo, Ream, & Garza 7550 W. IH-10 Suite 800 San Antonio, TX 78229 (210) 349-6484 www.davidsontrollo.com

Davidson & Trollo maintains offices in San Antonio and Austin that provide a wide variety of legal services for a broad spectrum of major clients throughout Texas.

601 E. Expressway 83 San Juan, TX 78589 (956) 702-8888....................fax (956) 475-3818 www.landroversanjuantx.com www.jaguarsanjuantx.com

Our love of new and used Jaguars and Land Rover models is what drives us to deliver exceptional customer service at our showroom and service center in San Juan. BANKS / SAVINGS & LOANS / CREDIT UNIONS

DeLaRosa & Company — See ad on Page 2 3401 Old Highway 77 - Suite B Brownsville, TX 78520 (956) 541-5272....................fax (956) 504-3348 www.delarosacpa.com

De La Rosa & Company, CPAs, specializes in accounting, payroll and income tax service for the small business owner. We offer various levels of service and can create a personalized plan that meets your needs.

Kantack Alcantara Law Office, P.C. — See ad on Page 2 4113 Padre Boulevard South Padre Island, TX 78597 (956) 761-8000....................fax (956) 761-8001 www.kantacklawoffice.com

For all your real estate, business organizations and transactions, and estate planning and probate needs. Board Certified in Commercial and Residential Real Estate Law.

1600 Ruben Torres Boulevard P.O. Box 1831 Brownsville, TX 78526 (956) 547-1017....................fax (956) 504-3348 www.ibc.com

Mechanical Contractors, HVAC Piping, DesignBuild for Industrial, Commercial and Residential AIR CONDITIONING SALES, SERVICE & INSTALLATION

At Treviño & Bodden, Eddie Treviño, Jr., and Conrad Bodden have over 40 years’ experience providing clients with sound legal advice and aggressive representation. Our clientele includes businesses, municipalities, insurance companies, physicians, injured individuals along with their family members, and individuals facing divorce.

Texas Wipers & Rags 739 E. Fronton Brownsville, TX 78520 (956) 554-7200 texaswipers@sbcglobal.net

Texas Wipers & Rags are a processor of 17 different reclaimed cleaning cloths. CLINICS / MEDICAL CENTERS / SURGERY CENTERS

Treviño & Bodden, Attorneys 295 U.S. Highway 281 Brownsville, TX 78520 (956) 546-8937....................fax (956) 542-3165 tempcontrolinc@sbcglobal.net

Christ Church of the Valley welcomes all looking for a diverse and active congregation. If you ever feel like you are running just a bit behind, know with Christ Church of the Valley, “You matter to us, and you matter to God.”

International Bank of Commerce — See ad on Page 4

Personal, business and international banking services in person and online.

805 Media Luna, Suite 300 Brownsville, TX 78520 (956) 554-0683....................fax (956) 554-0693 www.trevinobodden.com

2900 Dr. Hugh Emerson Brownsville, TX 78526 (956) 455-3302....................fax (956) 504-3348 www.jesuslovesbrownsville.com

CLEANING CLOTHS - RECYCLED

AIR CONDITIONING & HEATING

Temp Control, Inc. — See ad on Page 17

Christ Church of the Valley — See ad on Page 37

Rio Bank - Brownsville — See ad on Page 13 3401 Old Highway 77 P.O. Box 4169 Brownsville, TX 78520 (956) 542-9858....................fax (856) 542-9854 www.riobk.com

• Full Service Banking • 24-Hour ATM

North Brownsville Surgery Center Ms. Margaret Beavers, Clinic Director 5700 N. Expressway, Suite 201 Brownsville, TX 78526-4358 (956) 698-4970

For Your Surgery Needs: Ask your physician for North Brownsville Surgery Center at North Brownsville Medical Plaza.

AUTOMOBILE DEALERS - NEW & USED

COMMUNITY ORGANIZATIONS Texas Regional Bank

Superior A/C & Refrigeration 2947 Andorra Street Brownsville, TX 78520 (956) 466-6928

• Installation • Sales • Service/Repair • State Licensed #TACLB40164E AIRPORTS / AIRLINE / AIRCRAFT

Charlie Clark Nissan Brownsville 2547 N. Expressway 77/83 Brownsville, TX 78521 (956) 214-2500 penpointad@aol.com

Charlie Clark Nissan in Brownsville is rated in the top 10 Nissan dealerships in the U.S.A. with the best deals, affordable prices and excellent service. Located at NORTH EXPRESSWAY 83 ACROSS FROM SUNRISE MALL. ORALE!!!

3450 Pablo Kisel Boulevard Brownsville, TX 78520-4056 (956) 554-1055....................fax (956) 554-0902 www.texasregionalbank.com

We are a bank focused on building relationships with our customers to support their success. We have banking centers in Brownsville, Harlingen, McAllen and Fallfurrias. BOWLING LANES / SUPPLIES

Brownsville South Padre Island International Airport 700 Amelia Earhart Drive Brownsville, TX 78521 (956) 548-6000....................fax (956) 542-4374 mdjones@cob.us www.flybrownsville.com

American Airlines, United Airlines to more than 900 destinations worldwide, 24/7 Customs, three FBOs, six rental car agencies, awardwinning restaurant, free WiFi, mobile app and website, $5 parking.

BROWNSVILLE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Galaxy Bowling Center, L.P. 3451 Pablo Kisel Boulevard Brownsville, TX 78526 (956) 350-5252....................fax (956) 350-0927 corinagal@yahoo.com www.galaxybowlingcenter.com

Bowling, Restaurant, Event Center with Catering & Pro Shop

Crime Stoppers — See ad on Page 11 1600 University Boulevard Brownsville, TX 78520 (956) 546-TIPS.....................fax (956) 504-3348 www.brownsvillecrimestoppersweb.com

We encourage members of the community to get involved and Do the Right Thing! Report any suspicious behavior. We give cash for your tips.

DISTRIBUTORS

United Way of South Cameron County — See ad on Page 1 634 East Levee Street Brownsville, TX 78520 (956) 548-6880....................fax (956) 548-6906 www.unitedwayrgv.org

United Way of Southern Cameron County is the backbone organization for All In. We create real change by focusing on education, income and health. COMPUTER NETWORKING

Pittsburgh Electrical Insulation 600 Magnatek Drive Brownsville, TX 78520 (956) 554-3690....................fax (956) 548-0936 www.peipittsburgh.com

For 65 years, Pittsburgh Electrical Insulation (PEI) has produced and distributed quality electrical insulating materials for both the OEM and repair markets. Operating from an extensive inventory and a global network of suppliers, we are uniquely positioned to offer cost-effective solutions for the most demanding applications. ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

True Solutions 275 Lewis Street Brownsville, TX 78520 (956) 554-7773....................fax (956) 554-7773 www.truesolutions.biz

As a total solutions provider we offer your business technical support, maintenance plans and managed IT server support, and more. And, as a Microsoft Small Business Specialist, we have the expertise to help your business save time and money! CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT / SALES / RENTAL / REPAIR

Brownsville Economic Development Council — See ad on Page 3 301 Mexico Street, Suite F-1 Brownsville, TX 78520 (956) 541-1183....................fax (956) 546-3938 www.bedc.com

The Brownsville Economic Development Council (BEDC) is a publicly funded organization created to help companies establish or expand operations in the Brownsville area. The BEDC staff offers companies the financial, job training and site location assistance required to be successful in the Brownsville Borderplex Region. EDUCATION

Briggs Equipment 454 N. Expressway Brownsville, TX 78521-1405 (956) 504-5900

Leader and pioneer in the rental industry with a world-class rental fleet of over 5,000 pieces of equipment at locations throughout Louisiana, Texas, Mississippi, Alabama and Georgia. With Briggs Equipment Rental, count on getting your job done right. CUSTOMS BROKERS

Brownsville Independent School District — See ad on Page 31 1900 Price Road Brownsville, TX 78521 (956) 548-8000....................fax (956) 548-8010 www.bisd.us

Brownsville ISD, a top-rated district in the Rio Grande Valley, serves a population of almost 50,000 students in 58 schools with a broad selection of programs and activities, ranging from the Brownsville Early College High School to support programs for students with special needs. Communities In Schools of Cameron Co.

Parker & Company Worldwide — See ad on Page 17 1600 University Boulevard Brownsville, TX 78520 (956) 542-4341....................fax (956) 504-3308 info@brownsvillechamber.com www.brownsvillechamber.com

• Customs Brokers • Freight Forwarders Warehouse • Leasing Distribution Warehouse • FTZ Import Export-ISO 9001-CTPAT • Customs Consulting • Reconciliations

700 E. Levee Street, Suite 204 Brownsville, TX 78520 (956) 554-7954....................fax (956) 554-9144 gflores@ciscameroncounty.org www.ciscameroncounty.org

Communities In Schools of Cameron County is a nonprofit, drop-out prevention organization partnering with businesses and other community resources surrounding students with needed support, empowering them to stay in school and achieve in life.

244 Resaca Boulevard Brownsville, TX 78520 (956) 546-4486....................fax (956) 504-3960 www.iw-academy.org

Incarnate Word Academy, established in 1853, is a private Catholic coeducational institution for grades 3K – 8th conducted by the Sisters of the Incarnate Word and Blessed Sacrament.

34 North Coria Street Brownsville, TX 78520 (956) 542-5231....................fax (956) 504-9486 www.episcopaldayschool.net

At the Episcopal Day School we strive to provide the highest education in a Christian environment. For 65 years our goal has been to provide an enriched and challenging educational experience.

5460 N. Paredes Line Road, Suite 204 Brownsville, TX 78526 (956) 544-8373....................fax (956) 544-1366 www.select-staff.com

Select Staff is a leading, regional and privately held staffing firm specializing in clerical, finance, accounting and industrial personnel. We deliver our clients effective solutions for developing a flexible workforce in a cost-effective manner. ENGINEERS – CIVIL, ENVIRONMENTAL, MECHANICAL & CONSULTING

Kenmont - The Montessori School — See ad on Page 33 2734 North Coria Street Brownsville, TX 78520 (956) 542-0500....................fax (956) 542-0591 www.KenmontSchool.com

Kenmont Montessori School is a independent, nondenominational school serving students 18 months–8th grade. Our mission is to provide a high-quality education while conforming to the Montessori philosophy.

Gonzalez Engineering & Surveying, Inc. 153 East Price Brownsville, TX 78521 (956) 546-5515 www.gonzalezengineering.com

Consulting Civil Engineering: Land Development (Residential or Commercial), Public Works (Paving, Drainage, Water and WasteWater). Surveying: Boundary, Topographic, Improvements,Construction Staking. Valley-Wide Service.

The University of Texas at Brownsville — See ad on Page 33 One West University Boulevard Brownsville, TX 78521 (956) 882-3819 www.utb.edu

UT Brownsville is a member of the University of Texas System. UTB offers a unique intersection of culture and languages and maintains teaching excellence, active research and service for the common good.

Raba Kistner Consultants, Inc. 143 North Street, Suite A Brownsville, TX 78521-2350 (956) 504-9777....................fax (956) 504-9763 nparker@rkci.com

• Geotechnical, Construction Materials, Environmental Services, Pavement Consulting, Construction Observation • Close proximity lab • Local staff • Fast turnaround on results • Enhanced local capabilities • Trusted. Reliable. Certified. In the Valley since 1986.

UTB Center for Civic Engagement

ENTERTAINMENT

1301 E. Madison Street Brownsville, TX 78520 (956) 882-4300....................fax (956) 882-4309 civicengagement@utb.edu www.utb.edu/cce

The Center for Civic Engagement seeks to create an engaged campus that connects, faculty, students and community partners in ways that help revitalize the community. EMPLOYMENT AGENCIES

IBEX Business Solutions

Episcopal Day School — See ad on Page 31

Select Staff

805 Media Luna, Suite 100 Brownsville, TX 78520 (956) 574-7010....................fax (956) 574-7011 www.ibexbusinesssolutions.com

theBAR 1900 N. Expressway 83, Suite G-2 Brownsville, TX 78521 (956) 538-2277 dtoschlog@rgv.rr.com theBAR Brownsville (facebook)

We are a local bar 21 and over with a fun environment open 7 days a week (Mon.–Fri. 4 p.m.–2 a.m.; Sat. & Sun. 6 p.m.–2 a.m.) So whether it’s just to relax with a beer after work or a night out on the town bar hopping with friends, stop on by theBAR for Drinks, Friends, and Fun … Cheers!!

Provides Human Resources, Payroll, Health Benefits Administration, Worker’s Compensation and Executive Recruiting services. Through its diverse network of business partnerships, employers are able to access ancillary services such as health insurance.

www.brownsvillechamber.com

INDEX OF ADVERTISERS & PREFERRED BUSINESS LISTINGS

Incarnate Word Academy — See ad on Page 31

INDEX OF ADVERTISERS & PREFERRED BUSINESS LISTINGS

EXTERMINATOR SERVICES – PEST CONTROL

FURNITURE

Brownsville Orthopedic and Rehab Services — See ad on Inside Back Cover

Newtek “The Small Business Authority”

Safeguard Pest Control 8010 Westway Dr., Suite 3 Harlingen, TX 78552-6478 (800) 738-8237 www.safeguardpc.com

At Safeguard Pest Control we take pride in our service. Since 1979, we’ve been serving Cameron, Hidalgo, Willacy and Starr counties by providing homes and businesses with the most cost-effective solutions to pest control needs.

Ms. Elaine Sloane, Senior Vice President 301 Mexico Boulevard, Suite H4-A Innovation Center Brownsville, TX 78520 (800) 381-8022

Do you want to increase sales, reduce cost and minimize risk? The Small Business Authority, powered by Newtek, offers solutions in electronic payment processing, Web services, business financing, insurance, payroll, e-commerce and data storage. FITNESS CENTER / FITNESS SUPPLIES

Brownsville Orthopedics and Rehabilitation

Designer’s Showroom 350 N. Expressway Brownsville, TX 78520 (956) 542-6602....................fax (956) 542-6605 sales@designers-showroom.com

Designer’s Showroom is a family-operated business offering distinctive furniture and accessories. Designer’s provides competitive pricing, exceptional personal service and free interior design consultations for your home or business.

535 Paredes Line Road Brownsville, TX 78521 (956) 982-6982....................fax (956) 982-0436 www.brownsvilleortho.com

We strive to provide our patients with the best possible medical service. We individualize patient care by carefully evaluating their situation and setting up treatment tailored to their specific needs. Although a highly trained and qualified surgeon is available, we also offer non-surgical treatment as an alternative.

GOVERNMENT FESTIVALS Medwin Family Medicine & Rehab — See ad on Page 56

Combat Fitness LLC

Sombrero Festival, LTD P.O. Box 5240 Brownsville, TX 78523-5240 (956) 550-9682 www.sombrerofestival.com

Held the last weekend in February each year during Charro Days, it provides one of the single largest marketing opportunities year-round in the city while benefiting nonprofit organizations who volunteer for the event and local community causes.

620 Paredes Line Road, Suite B Brownsville, TX 78521 (956) 545-1407 combatfitness@ymail.com www.combatfit.net

Group fitness programs with a personal touch. Licensed facility for iLoveKickboxing.com and Cage Fitness. Clean family atmosphere where we make exercise so much fun you won’t call it working out. Free self defense classes available with any of our programs.

City of Brownsville — See ad on Page 6 1001 E. Elizabeth Street, 3rd Floor P.O. Box 911 Brownsville, TX 78520 (956) 548-6020....................fax (956) 546-2770 www.cob.us

FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS Gold’s Gym

Valley Federal Credit Union — See ad on Inside Front Cover 183 E. Price Road Brownsville, TX 78521 (956) 546-3108....................fax (956) 544-5404 www.vfcu.net

Gold’s Gym helps individuals realize their full potential. Amenities include Free Group Exercise Classes, Certified Personal Trainers and our Kid’s Club. Come check us out today!

If you live, work or attend school in Cameron County or Willacy County you are eligible become a member here at Valley Federal Credit Union, “People helping People” since 1935. FINANCIAL SERVICES

HG Thomas Wealth Management — See ad on Page 5 2390 Central Boulevard, Suite Y Brownsville, TX 78520 (956) 542-6044....................fax (956) 542-2992 www.hgthomas.com

At HG Thomas Wealth Management, we focus on a holistic approach to your individual financial plan. This process includes educating our clients as well as implementing their customized financial life plan.

3025 Boca Chica Boulevard Brownsville, TX 78521 (956) 517-2292 bocachica@goldsgym.com www.GoldsGymEXPRESS.com

FOREIGN WORKER CONSULTANTS JKJ Workforce Agency, Inc.

32775 FM 106 Rio Hondo, TX 78583 (956) 748-0550....................fax (956) 748-0553 carnival.workforce@gmail.com

Valley Baptist Medical CenterBrownsville – See ad on Page 22 1040 W. Jefferson Brownsville, TX 78520 (956) 698-5400 www.valleybaptist.net

Providing health care services to South Texas since 1925. Including: • Healthy Women’s Services • da Vinci® Robotic Surgery • Award-Winning Stroke Treatment

191 East Price Road Brownsville, TX 78521 (956) 548-7400 alixflores.bchc@tachc.org www.mybchc.org

Gold’s Gym Express

Full-Service Foreign Labor Facilitator specializing in all types of Guest Worker Programs.

BROWNSVILLE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Brownsville Community Health Center — See ads on Page 27 and Outside Back Cover

At Brownsville Community Health Center (BCHC) our goal is to provide comprehensive primary health care services with excellence and dignity to our community.

Gold’s Gym Express is where you push yourself to build a better body. A better mind. And a better you. Our fully equipped facility has everything you need to Work in a Workout!

A friendly practice for over eight years, providing cost-effective and quality patient care in a timely manner.

Providing our customers efficient and quality municipal services with courtesy and concern. And Brownsville’s semi-tropical climate is recognized as one of the most delightful in the nation. HEALTH CARE

800 Sunrise Boulevard Brownsville, TX 78526 (956) 544-6533 mlopez@goldsgym.com www.GoldsGym.com

315 Jose Marti Boulevard Brownsville, TX 78526 (956) 546-7530....................fax (956) 546-7531 medical7530@gmail.com

Valley Regional Medical Center — See ad on Page 26 100A East Alton Gloor Boulevard Brownsville, TX 78526 (956) 350-7000....................fax (956) 350-7999 www.valleyregionalmedicalcenter.com

Valley Regional Medical Center is conveniently located just off Expressway 77/83. Our Emergency Department treats a wide range of emergent needs 24 hours a day. Visit us at: www.valleyregionalmedicalcenter.com Brownsville Obstetrics & Gynecology Associates, P.L.L.C. — See ad on Page 24

HOTELS / MOTELS

800 W. Jefferson Street, Suite 210 Brownsville, TX 78520 (956) 550-8733....................fax (956) 550-9299 www.bogagyn.com

At Brownsville OB/GYN Associates, we offer the highest level of care through highly skilled health care professionals and state-of-the-art technologies. In addition to offering a full range of obstetrics and gynecology services, our Board Certified Physicians are specially trained in minimally invasive gynecologic procedures, such as da Vinci® Surgery.

Holiday Inn - Brownsville TX — See ad on Page 14 3777 North Expressway Brownsville, TX 78520 (956) 547-1500....................fax (956) 547-1550 www.holidayinnbrownsville.com

As the only full-service hotel in Brownsville, this hotel delivers convenience and comfort; featuring Galleria Restaurant, open for lunch, breakfast and dinner. Enjoy daily happy hour specials at Club Ruchi.

LABELING – INDUSTRIAL

MUSEUMS

Pesa Labeling Systems

3759 North Expressway Brownsville, TX 78520 (956) 574-6900....................fax (956) 574-6910 www.brownsville.homewoodsuites.com

Stay at this all-suite hotel conveniently located near Texas Expressway 77/83, opposite Sunrise Mall, and only 15 minutes from the Brownsville International Airport. Enjoy daily complimentary breakfast and dinner Monday–Thursday.

901 E. Levee Street Brownsville, TX 78520-5164 (956) 541-4955....................fax (956) 541-4990 crocha@cdcb.org

Pesa Labeling Systems is a leading international provider of custom-printed labels, tags and diecut components.

CDCB is a multi-faceted affordable housing organization devoted to utilizing collaborative partnerships to create sustainable communities across the Rio Grande Valley through quality education, model financing, efficient home design and superior construction.

LOGISTICS

Brownsville Museum of Fine Art 660 E. Ringgold Street Brownsville, TX 78520 (956) 542-0941 info@brownsvillemfa.org www.brownsvillemfa.org

BMFA strives to contribute to the art education and cultural enrichment of the community, exhibit works of art, offer educational programs for children and adults, and develop the appreciation and advancement of art.

INSURANCE Border Customs Service — See ad on Page 7 La Quinta Inn & Suites South Padre Beach 7000 Padre Boulevard South Padre Island, TX 78597 (956) 772-7000 www.laquintasouthpadreisland.com

Located directly on the beach next to Clayton’s nationally known beach bar, our hotel is located in the heart of action at South Padre Beach. Stay at our hotel for more amenities at a great value, including modern features from free Wi-Fi to free premium cable television.

Hughston Insurance Agency Brock Hughston 46 Core Circle P.O. Box 8190 Brownsville, TX 78526 (956) 542-4387....................fax (956) 542-8335 www.hughstoninsuranceagency.com

We are a fourth-generation family company and have been serving the state of Texas since 1927. Our office is located in Brownsville, Texas, on Cove Circle. We offer any and all types of insurance.

1280 Cheers Boulevard Brownsville, TX 78521 (956) 548-0311....................fax (956) 838-0107 info@bordercustyoms.com www.bordercustoms.com

Border Customs Service provides complete logistic services on import and export shipments by servicing our clients with true and accurate solutions related to Customs, Transportation and Warehousing.

Rancho Viejo Resort & Country Club 1 Rancho Viejo Drive Rancho Viejo, TX 78575 (956) 350-4000....................fax (956) 350-5696 www.rvrcc.com

1,400 acres of lush tropical landscaping. On-site restaurant, championship golf, 12 meeting facilities, pool, massage therapy, 24-hour fitness center and overnight accommodations in our beautiful Villas. Dine, Stay & Play.

1300 Mexico Boulevard Brownsville, TX 78520 (956) 548-2415....................fax (956) 548-2426 oscard@bmbridgeco.com

Brownsville & Matamoros Bridge was the first permanent bridge across the Rio Grande. Since 1910, we have been constantly improving and upgrading our facilities and service, offering savings and convenience for all who cross to and from Mexico.

Brownsville/South Padre International Airport 955 S. Minnesota Avenue Brownsville, TX 78521 (956) 541-8585 www.RGVWingCAF.com

• Vintage Aircraft • Gift Shop • Memorabilia • Crew Lounge NURSING FACILITIES / NURSING CARE

INTERNATIONAL BRIDGE

Brownsville & Matamoros Bridge Co.

CAF Flying Museum — See ad on Page 39

OSPECA Logistics Management Transport — See ad on Page 49 4740 Jamie J Zapata Avenue Brownsville, TX 78521 (956) 831-4525....................fax (956) 831-2664 www.OSPECA3pl.com

With over 48 years of experience, we have our own Mexican and American Customs Brokerage and Transportation, including warehouses in Brownsville and Laredo. Specially trained staff for your specific needs. MANUFACTURING

INTERNATIONAL TRADING COMPANY

Alta Vista Rehabilitation and Healthcare 510 Paredes Line Road Brownsville, TX 78521-2494 (956) 546-5358....................fax (956) 541-2623 jamado@ensigngroup.net http://altavistarehab.net

Whether you’re recuperating from knee or hip replacement surgery or from a stroke, our highly skilled therapists will assist you in getting your mobility back. Our Goal: Get you healthy and get you home! PARK DISTRICT

Coastal Automation & Supply — See ad on Page 6 Staybridge Suites 2900 Pablo Kisel Boulevard Brownsville, TX 78526 (956) 504-9500

From spacious suites with full kitchens to complimentary guest facilities like the 24-hour fitness center, business center and self-serve laundry, guests make an extended stay an extended pleasure. HOUSING DEVELOPMENT SERVICES

Ferti-Organic, Inc. 3006 JCS Industrial Drive Brownsville, TX 78526-5139 (956) 574-8280....................fax (956) 546-9229 www.ferti-organic.com

Ferti-Organic has dedicated itself entirely to organic agriculture. We have developed a complete line of natural raw materials and insect repellents for farmers, blenders, formulators and agriculture companies. CDFA and OMRI listed Products.

292 Kings Highway - Suite 10 Brownsville, TX 78521 (956) 554-3390....................fax (956) 554-3489 www.coastalautomation.com

Serving the industrial manufacturing community with Quality Products and Superior Service. Coastal Automation is a leader in industrial automation solutions.

JEWELERS Milwhite, Inc.

Brownsville Parks and Recreation — See ad on Page 47 1338 East 8th Street Brownsville, TX 78520 (956) 542-2064....................fax (956) 982-1049 http://parks.cob.us

The City of Brownsville Parks and Recreation Department (PARD) manages 30 parks encompassing over 1,000 acres of parkland, featuring 23 miles of hike/bike trails, three gymnasiums and pools, 50 buildings, over 55 athletic fields, and the Catherine Stillman Dog Park. PARD us committed to providing quality recreational services, facilities and programs for all Brownsville residents and visitors.

5487 South Padre Island Highway Brownsville, TX 78521 (956) 547-1990....................fax (956) 547-1998

Brownsville Afford. Homeownership Corp. Mr. Steven Solis, Executive Director 896 Ridgewood, Suite C Brownsville, TX 78520-8636 (956) 621-2813....................fax (956) 621-2815

To make Brownsville a better place to live by supporting community efforts to preserve and expand affordable housing, home ownership and economic opportunities and by providing equal access to safe, decent, affordable housing.

Gold Corner, Inc. — See ad on Page 2 1200 East Washington Street Brownsville, TX 78520 (956) 541-8458....................fax (956) 541-2448 goldcornerinc@yahoo.com

Milwhite produces Barytes, used in the oil and gas drilling industry. Milwhite also produces Milbond-TX®, which is used worldwide in animal feed as an aflatoxin binder. We pride ourselves on being responsive to our customers’ quality and service needs. We are both API and ISO certified.

- Over 31 years in business. - We buy gold, coins, silver, diamonds & watches - One-on-one customer experience - Fast, easy & best payout for your investment - Need cash for taxes, or vacation money? - Ask how to earn with our rewards program.

www.brownsvillechamber.com

INDEX OF ADVERTISERS & PREFERRED BUSINESS LISTINGS

Homewood Suites by Hilton — See ad on Page 15

Community Development Corporation of Brownsville

4401 Paredes Line Road Brownsville, TX 78526 (956) 544-3323....................fax (956) 544-3362 info@pesalabeling.com www.pesalabeling.com

INDEX OF ADVERTISERS & PREFERRED BUSINESS LISTINGS

PAWN & JEWELRY

PORT

Port of Brownsville — See ad on Inside Back Cover Amigo Pawn & Jewelry — See ad on Page 6 Mr. Robert Galindo, President 6181 Paredes Line Road Brownsville, TX 78526 (956) 554-0293

Serving Brownsville for over 20 years with 4 additional locations to better serve you: • 831-5522 Highway 48 • 544-5675 Old Port Isabel Road • 544-9151 Paredes Line Road • 554-9198 Ruben Torres Boulevard Hours of operation 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Come by and see us.

RECEPTION FACILITIES

Brownsville Events Center

1000 Foust Road Brownsville, TX 78521 (956) 831-4592....................fax (956) 831-5006 www.portofbrownsville.com

1 Events Center Boulevard Brownsville, TX 78526-1171 (956) 554-0700....................fax (956) 554-3886 jcguerrero@cob.us

The Port of Brownsville, a deepwater port located on the U.S./Mexico border, provides a full range of services to ensure efficient and timely cargo delivery. We can handle any cargo!

First-class facility for events and mini trade shows, the main ballroom can accommodate up to 1,200; theater and dividable function space w/flexibility to accommodate needs of various sized groups.

PRINTING, MARKETING & PUBLISHING

RECORDS DESTRUCTION

3230 International Boulevard Brownsville, TX 78520 (956) 546-9650

Brownsville Coffee Shop #2 is a • Full-Service Restaurant • Specializing in Homemade Mexican Food • Serving the Community Since 1975 • Open 24 Hours Panda Express

4435 N. Expressway Brownsville, TX 78520-8491 (956) 350-3998 pandaexpress.com

Brownsville Scrap Paper, Inc.

Rio Valley Dermatology

Allegra — See ad on Page 7 1273 E. Alton Gloor, Suite A Brownsville, TX 78526 (956) 548-1301....................fax (956) 548-0225 www.allegraRGV.com

Mr. Ruben Guerrero, President 144 Tudela Street Brownsville, TX 78526 (956) 838-1999

Dr. Michael Hohnadel Board Certified Dermatologist

Allegra, one of the world’s largest marketing, print and graphic communications franchises, provides in-house and franchise-sourced printing technologies, e-marketing, mobile and website development, direct mail, promotional products, and marketing strategies.

Services: • FREE Document destruction/confidential paper shredding (call for details) • Recycling materials: paper, cardboard, plastic & many grades of metals (specializing in maquiladoras & businesses) • Certified public scale • bspaperinc@aol.com

PHYSICIANS – OPTOMETRIST, MEDICAL EYE SPECIALIST

Brownsville Coffee Shop #2, Inc. — See ad on Page 11

Asian-inspired cuisine in a fast, casual environment.

PHYSICIANS – DERMATOLOGISTS 864 Central Boulevard, Suite 3000 Brownsville, TX 78520-7593 (956) 546-7546....................fax (956) 546-7544 www.riovalleydermatology.com

RESTAURANTS

REAL ESTATE RECYCLING SERVICES

The Garden Grille & Bar-Hilton Garden Inn 7010 Padre Boulevard South Padre Island, TX 78597 (956) 761-8700 www.restaurantsouthpadre.com

• The Premier South Padre Island Restaurant. • Daily specials for breakfast, lunch and dinner. • Daily Happy Hour. • Superior catering & events services.

Barrera EYE Center PLLC 2485 Hudson Boulevard Brownsville, TX 78526-7430 (956) 554-3030 www.barreraeyecenter.com

Barrera EYE Center provides Primary Eye Care services for your entire family. Our friendly and experienced team is committed to taking the very best care of our patients. At Barrera EYE Center we love being able to help people see better, look better, and feel better. PHYSICIANS – SURGEONS – SPECIALISTS

Dutch Fisher Real Estate — See ad on Page 37 1642 East Price Road, Suite 102 Brownsville, TX 78521 (956) 546-3474....................fax (956) 546-3444 dutchpescador@aol.com www.dutchfisherrealestate.com

If you are considering Selling or Investing in Real Estate, Please Contact Dutch Fisher (Cell) 956.494.3731. Piensas Vender o Comprar en Bienes Raices, Favor de Llamar Ludy Fisher (Cell) 956.545.8046/ Gracias!

EMR 18501 R.L. Ostos Road Brownsville, TX 78521 (956) 831-2299 www.emrgroup

EMR, a modern metal recycler, a full-service scrap facility. We purchase scrap and recycle ships at competitive rates. Please contact us about pricing your copper, brass, aluminum and steel.

Vermillion — See ad on Page 11 1600 University Boulevard Brownsville, TX 78520 (956) 542-4341....................fax (956) 504-3308 info@brownsvillechamber.com www.brownsvillechamber.com

The Vermillion for over 75 years has operated under the rather simple philosophy of offering good food and good services at a good price. Not fancy, just good.

REAL ESTATE - DEVELOPERS RETAIL

Cardenas Development Company, Inc. Southern Texas Physicians Network Dr. Jaime Villarreal, MD, Physician 100 Alton Gloor Boulevard Building B, Suite 260 Brownsville, TX 78526-3356 (956) 350-3901

Serving patients of all ages for all general, colorectal surgery and cardiovascular surgery needs. Dr. Villareal performs many services, including, but not limited to: coronary artery bypass, carotid endarterectomy, thoracoscopy and bronchoscopy.

Mrs. Reba Cardenas McNair, President 1603 E. Price Road Brownsville, TX 78521 (956) 542-8919

Land development company with projects in the Brownsville, San Beito and Harlingen areas. This family-owned company has been in business since 1970. Lago Vista is the latest subdivision with lovely lake-fronting lots. REAL ESTATE DEVELOPMENT – INDUSTRIAL Allex International Properties

David Allex 920 West Van Buren Harlingen, TX 78550 (956) 425-6199....................fax (956) 425-7121 dallex@aipavanza.com

Mervis-Texas, LP — See ad on Page 5 6955 North FM 511 Brownsville, TX 78521 (956) 838-0011....................fax (956) 838-0013 www.mervis.com

Mervis Industries is wholly dedicated to creating progressive solutions to the essential manufacturing and recycling needs of the communities we serve. A diversified, familyowned company, we combine an experienced, customer-focused workforce with state-of-the-art facilities. REHABILITATION / PHYSICAL THERAPY / OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY

Total Rehabilitation Services, Inc. 864 Central Boulevard, Suite 3200 Brownsville, TX 78520 (956) 542-2845....................fax (956) 548-9019

Total Rehab of Brownsville provides Physical, Speech and Aquatic Therapy. They specialize in providing rehabilitation therapy to get adults, teens and children back to health and out of pain! Total Rehab accepts a wide range of insurances and also has a clinic in Harlingen.

BROWNSVILLE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Walmart - Brownsville TX — See ad on Page 4 2721 Boca Chica Boulevard Brownsville, TX 78521 (956) 544-0394....................fax (956) 504-3348 www.wal-mart.com

Walmart has three (3) convenient stores, the above address and two additional Walmarts found at: • 7480 Padre Island Blvd., Brownsville, TX 78521 • 3500 W. Alton Gloor Blvd., Brownsville, TX 78526

RETAIL - DUTY FREE

Dalco Protection Systems

1401 E. Washington Street (Corner of Washington & 14th) Brownsville, TX 78520-5723 (956) 550-9300 www.bajadutyfree.com

Mr. Albino Carrasco, Owner/Operator 355 Old Port Isabel Road Brownsville, TX 78521-3546 (956) 541-6056 ajc@dpsalarms.com

Business hours: Mon.–Sat. 9 a.m.–8 p.m.; Sun. 10 a.m.–5 p.m. SHOP TAX-FREE & save up to 50%! At Baja you can find a wide selection of brand-name spirits, beer, fragrances, tobacco & more!

Protecting your home and family can be easy with the help of DPS Alarms. For years, DPS Alarms has provided home security systems so you and your family can take comfort in knowing that you are protected, whether you are at home or away.

SCHOOLS, COLLEGES & EDUCATION

SHRIMP FISHING

ZOOS

Shrimp Outlet — See ad on Page 4

Gladys Porter Zoo — See ad on Page 44

2230 Fishermans Place Road Brownsville, TX 78521 (956) 455-9269....................fax (956) 831-3851 www.shrimpoutletbrownsville.com

500 Ringgold Street Brownsville, TX 78520 (958) 546-7187 www.gpz.org

Shrimp Outlet is a family owned and operated business. Using modern advances in engine, fishing gear and chemical-free methods of preserving shrimp, the Burnell family brings the best of the Gulf to your table!

The Gladys Porter Zoo, located on 31 acres in central Brownsville, is a visitor-oriented zoological and botanical park, dedicated to the preservation of nature through education, conservation and research.

TITLE COMPANIES

SECURITY SYSTEMS

Rio Grande Valley Abstract Co., Inc.

Harmony Science Academy - Brownsville 1124 Central Boulevard Brownsville, TX 78520 (956) 574-9555 www.hsabrownsville.org

Harmony Public Schools are high-performing K–12 public charter schools in Texas that focus on math, science and computer technologies to provide opportunities for underserved communities.

Xtreme Security — See ad on Page 11 3040 FM 802 Suite E Brownsville, TX 78526 (956) 504-0811 galiguer@xtremesecurity.us

• Alarm System • CCTV System • Audio System • Intercom System SHIP & OFFSHORE OIL RIG CONSTRUCTION & REPAIR

905 W. Price Road Brownsville, TX 78520 (956) 542-4367....................fax (956) 542-7041 aliciah@rgvabstract.com www.rgvabstract.com

We are a full-service title insurance company providing title insurance, escrow and closing services for Cameron County, Texas. Our offices are located in Brownsville, Harlingen and South Padre Island. Our goal is to provide “Great Service with a Smile.” We want to be your title company of choice in Cameron County. TRANSPORTATION Pronto Carriers, Inc.

4745 Mar Street Brownsville, TX 78520 (956) 831-0117....................fax (956) 831-0070

Kaplan College — See ad on Page 35 1900 North Expressway Brownsville, TX 78521 (956) 547-8200....................fax (956) 547-8208 www.go.kcthevalley.com

Kaplan College is an institution of higher education dedicated to providing quality programs that integrate curriculum with professional skill development, empowering students to achieve their lifelong personal and professional goals.

Keppel AmFELS LLC 20,000 State Highway 48 Brownsville, TX 78523 (956) 831-8220 www.keppelamfels.com

The best-equipped shipyard in the Gulf of Mexico, backed by comprehensive facilities and a skilled workforce. We deliver premium rigs safely, on time and within budget, placing Brownsville on the global map for world-class offshore solutions. SHIPBREAKING / DISMANTLING SERVICES

South Texas Vocational Technical Inst. 2144 Central Boulevard Brownsville, TX 78520-8710 (956) 554-3515....................fax (956) 554-3542 tcarrejo@svt.edu http://www.stvt.edu

Celebrating 40 years of providing career-focused training to the Rio Grande Valley! At STVT you are a member of our extended family. Faculty and staff work with you to achieve your educational and career training objectives and secure the necessary skills you need to be successful in today’s competitive workplace environment. Get Started. Call Now.

ESCO Marine, Inc.

Trucking - Motor Freight TRUCK EQUIPMENT & PARTS

Nuga Diesel, Inc. 3300 E. 14th Street Brownsville, TX 78521 (956) 548-0984

Our business has been established for over 30 years, serving the Valley with our quality service and parts. We supply the needs of the transportation industry Valley-wide, keeping the best inventory and pricing available to our valued customers. YOUTH ORGANIZATIONS & CENTERS

16200 Jose Garza Road Brownsville, TX 78521 (956) 831-8300

Headquartered in Brownsville, Texas, ESCO is a leading, vertically integrated scrap metal recycler serving the growing Rio Grande Valley region of southern Texas and northern Mexico. SHORTLINE RAILROAD

Hooked For Life, Kids Gone Fish’n 1150 Paredes Line Road Brownsville, TX 78521-2628 (956) 501-5682 www.hookedforlife.us

A nonprofit organization whose purpose is to introduce children to the sport and joy of fishing; to provide a quality fishing experience for children who otherwise may not have the opportunity to fish. Brownsville & Rio Grande International RailRoad 12650 State Highway 48 Brownsville, TX 78521-9275 (956) 831-7731....................fax (956) 831-2142 www.brgrr.com

Providing efficient, reliable railroad service at the Port of Brownsville.

www.brownsvillechamber.com

55 INDEX OF ADVERTISERS & PREFERRED BUSINESS LISTINGS

Baja Duty Free

SECURITY - PRODUCTS / SYSTEMS / BURGLAR & FIRE ALARMS