Not Your Mother's Art Exhibition

The McAllen Arts Council is sponsoring its second annual Fine Arts Show this week through 10 pm Friday night at the McAllen Chamber of Commerce, 1200 Ash Avenue, 1/2 block east of Archer Park. Some of the McAllen area's best artists are exhibiting and selling their art. There are oils and watercolors enough to please any traditional art aficionado, but there's also a lot of funky art- sculptures, jewelry, mixed media and just "different" expressions. Plus, you get to vote for your favorite artist. Stop in Thursday any time from 8 to 5 or Friday from 6 to 10. Music After Hours will be going on Friday night, too, so it's a multi-arts experience in McAllen. Come check it out.

CAINTRA Annual Assembly

Last Thurday I atended the Annual Assembly of the Monterrey Chamber of Industry (CAINTRA) where also 2,000 entrepreneurs attended. The keynote speaker was Guillermo Ortiz Martinez, former Governor of the Bank of Mexico

The weather here in McAllen is just about as good as it can possibly get. Lows are about 60 and highs are about 80 every day! I played golf yesterday and the grass is emerald green, the birds are chirping and life is good! Don't ever "sample" new golf clubs (if you are a serious golfer) unless you are prepared to buy a whole new set. For the second time in five years, when the salesman came by with all the latest and greatest, I planned to buy one specific club. For the second time in five years, I loved 'em all and puchased a whole new set. They have a machine now that tells you EVERYTHING about your swing and the trajectory and flight of the ball. So..I was buying with confidence and so far, having used them in a real game twice, I'm really glad I got 'em. Golfing is ABUNDANT in McAllen with several really good golf courses available in town or right next door-so "let's meet in McAllen!"

If you want more information or just to chat, call me at 9456-682-2871 or email me at jdeuser@mcallencvb.com.

MAC Fine Art Show

The McAllen Arts Council's 2nd Annual Fine Art Show is currently open and on display at the McAllen Chamber of Commerce, located at 1200 Ash Ave in McAllen. The show features the fine works of local arts and runs through Friday, April 2 in conjunction with Artwalk. Admission is FREE and everyone is encouraged to come and enjoy the incredible works of art displayed.

Interested in the Arts in McAllen...

For those interested in looking or buying Art work in McAllen, you will find the following link quite useful, here are several venues here in McAllen that carry and display art or that cater to the arts. McAllen Art www.mcallenart.com also has useful information on art and entertainment programs in the McAllen area.

http://www.mcallenart.com/Venues

McAllen Chamber: "Let's make sure McAllen is counted and accurately represented"

The McAllen Chamber of Commerce takes this opportunity to remind the public about the importance of filling out and returning the 2010 Census form by April 1.

“Let’s make sure McAllen is counted and accurately represented.” Steve Ahlenius, President & CEO of the McAllen Chamber of Commerce said, as he explained that everyone needs to participate in this once-a-decade count of our population. “It directly affects how more than $500 billion per year in federal funding is distributed.”

April 1st 2010 is National Census Day. Residents should use this day as a point of reference for sending their completed forms back in the mail. From April - July 2010 Census takers will visit households that did not return a form by mail.

“Participating in Census 2010 means a brighter tomorrow for everyone,” Nancy Millar, Vice-President and Director of the McAllen Visitors Bureau said. “In fact, the information the census collects helps to determine how federal funding each year is spent on infrastructure and services like: Hospitals, job training centers, schools, senior centers, emergency services, bridges, tunnels and other-public works projects.”

For more information about Census 2010, you may visit http://2010.census.gov

Tres Ranchos Photography - April 15-17, 2010

Spring....
One of the most delightful seasons in the Rio Grande Valley.

The weather is mild and the landscape responds with colors & wildlife. Enjoy lectures & day trips, but no tests!

We have brought together the best talent creating an outstanding workshop at Quinta Mazatlan, McAllen Wing of the World Birding Center. www.quintamazatlan.com

Tres Ranchos Photography - April 15-17, 2010
Instructors: Larry Ditto, Ruth Hoyt, Paul Denman
Three day series features a half-day workshop and half-day out in the field. Visit a new South Texas ranch each day.

Price: $599 (Includes breakfast and lunch)
Recommendations: Minimum 400mm Telephoto lens, flash & tripod. Participant should be familiar with using own photo equipment.

Register online at:
www.mcallenchamber.com
Phone: (956) 682-2871
Fax: (956) 631-8571
Email: mmunoz@mcallencvb.com

McAllen Hot Spots

Alhambra is one of McAllen's top restaurants! It opened a couple months ago and has a great ambiance with even better food. This Mediterranean gem features dishes like lobster paella, mussels with delicious french fries, and filet mignon. In addition, it serves one of the best sangrias I ever tried! Alhambra is located on McAllen's 17th St Entertainment District. Check them out at : www.alhambraon17th.com.

Beading

I've just discovered beading and am having so much fun with it! There are lots of bead stores in McAllen- I've found 6 already. A friend came over to the house and showed another friend and me the basics last weekend, and I've been obsessed ever since! The McAllen Chamber's Creative Incubator has a workshop series on different cultural arts and crafts, and there's been jewelry making before. I'll be watching for it again!

LA BOHEME COMING TO McALLEN

The South Texas Lyric Opera's fifth season continues on March 27, 2010 , with a performance of Giacomo Puccini's highly praised opera, " La Boheme." Be transported to the Latin Quarter in Paris and witness the heartwarming love story of a young couple's will to survive and overcame illness. The opera highlights the characters' zest for life despite the struggle of everyday hardships.

Como and enjoy this great performance.

Expo Outdoors

The past weekend, we had a booth free of charge for the Outdoors Expo, International exhibition for hunting, fishing and adventure, where we delivered the McAllen Chamber`s members information and also many visitors stopped in our booth because they`re interested in traveling to McAllen.

Scrapbooking Workshop

There will be a FREE Scrapbooking Workshop this coming Tuesday, March 30 at the McAllen Creative Incubator. The Facilitator will be Isela Garza who is one of the premier Scrapbookers in McAllen. All you have to bring is 3 or 4 photos to scrapbook and a desire to have a good time and learn something new. All the tools that you need will be provided. To sign up, call Greg Schuller at (956) 687-2787. Well see you there.

Por motivo de Semana Santa!!!

Se amplia la franquicia de 300 dlls por pasajero en las aduanas mexicanas, la fecha en que inicio fue el 18 de marzo y concluira el 11 de abril,, así que, para los amigos que desean viajar esta semana santa a McAllen, es una excelente noticia.....

Los invitamos a que nos visiten, descansen, compren y disfruten de nuestra maravillosa ciudad de Las Palmas en donde encontraran gran variedad de hoteles, restaurantes, muchas cosas que ver y hacer, vida nocturna etc... y claro,, nuestros excelentes centros comerciales ideales para hacer "shopping".

Nos vemos en McAllen!!!

Que tengan un excelente y productivo martes...

International Food Festival & Music After Hours on March 26 & 27, 2010

The McAllen Chamber of Commerce, 2010 International Food Festival is almost here. If you need tickets, you can get them at the McAllen Chamber of Commerce or buy them at the entrance on the day of the event, March 25, 2010 (Thursday) 6 P.M. to 9 P.M. Tickets are $15 per person and children under 10 years of age get in for free.

This (Friday), March 26, 2010, live entertainment "Music After Hours" outside the McAllen Convention Center, from 6 P.M.-10 P.M. Located on Ware Rd & Expressway 83 in McAllen. I attended one of this events a few weeks back and I'm pretty sure you will enjoy the sounds of the local artists, they are quite good. Escape your routine and have a relaxing day outside the Convention Center complex and enjoy some free music.

McAllen weekends are awesome!

McAllen weekends are the best- hit 17th Street and surrounds for the newest and best in food, live music, and fun. No matter what you like- a big dance floor or an intimate place to just kick back, McAllen has it. This weekend will be the perfect time to try out a new spot. What a great way to end Spring Break!

McALLEN'S INTENATIONAL FOOD FESTIVAL

It's that time of the year again! The McAllen Chamber of Commerce and area chefs are currently planning the 9th Annual International Food Festival. The event scheduled for Thursday, March 25, 2010 will be held t the New McAllen Convention Center from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Come and taste the fine cuisine from several McAllen and Rio Grande Valley restaurants. With spring parties, weddings and graduations around the corner, this will be a great opportunity to sample food from several restaurants and bakeries that may provide catering services. For more information on this event call (956) 282 2871.

will see you at the Food Festival.

Teo

Increasing the amount of $50 to $300 dlls for crossing

On March 18 begins increasing the amount of $ 50 to $ 300 dlls per passenger for the crossing of goods., so the "regiomontanos" (people from Monterrey) are beginning to prepare for travel to McAllen and shop: bathing suits, sandals, shorts , towels, luggage, etc.. prior and during the Easter holidays

I'm really excited about the next McAllen International Travel Show-even though it won't happen until next January. The reason I'm excited is because we already have strong interest expressed by an RV Dealership and a Dargel Boat dealership. These two types of exhibitors are new to the Travel Show but they really do complement the destinations and attractions that have been popular for years. I'm also hoping to attract a motorcycle dealership as well. These three new attractions will help fill up the huge exhibit hall at the McAllen Convention Center. We will be bringing back the "South of the Border Grill" and, as another new feature, we plan to have places, quite and semi-private where you can book a trip, a tour, a fishing trip, or whatever you want. I'm sure I'll be posting more about all this as the year goes along. In the meantime, let's meet in McAllen!

Hike & Bike Trails in McAllen...

Ever wonder where in McAllen you can go on a bike ride or jog? I'm not talking about going aroud the block or sharing the road with cars. I'm talking about a place(s) where you and your bike can co-exist in peace and harmony without the worry of upcoming traffic. If you are into bike riding, jogging, or hiking, here are some places you may be interested in finding, that's if you haven't found them yet on your own:

(Visit the website for more information.)

http://www.mcallen.net/parks/cityparks/trails.aspx

Parks & Recreation1000 S. Ware Rd. McAllen, TX 78501 (Map)Phone: (956) 681-3333

Hike & Bike Trails

La Vista Park Trail & Fitness System
100 La Vista
Las Palmas Park Trail
2500 QuinceTwo times around trail = 1 Mile
Los Encinos Park Trail & Fitness System
2900 Sarah
McAllen Hike & Bike Trails
Second Street/Col. Rowe/ Bicentennial (two separate trails)Distance of trail from Business 83 to Nolana - 2.33 Miles
Retama Village Park Trail
2500 LaurelTwo times around trail = 1 Mile
Schupp Park Trail & Fitness System
1300 ZinniaOne time around trail = 0.72 Miles
Westside Park Trail
1000 S. Ware RoadOne time around - 2/3 Mile

Simon Fashion Now

Yes! Sping is in the air!! and La Plaza Mall is having another of its great Sping Fashion Shows. On April 3, 2010 will have their annual Simon Fashion Now.........The concept is a vibrant mix of accessible, luxurious and affortable style that affords shoppers the ability to purchase straight from the runway. Each event offers advice and insight into the latest cosmetic trends, must-have accessories, and of course, fashionable flair available at select Simon properties.

We will see you there.

Vida Verde Earth Day Festival

Celebrate the wonders of Planet Earth during the third annual VIDA VERDE Earth Day Festival at Quinta Mazatlan!
People of all ages will enjoy FREE festival activities all day long!
Date: Saturday, April 17, 2010Time: 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.Fee: FREE!


Attractions:
Live Birds of Prey Show
Experience a close encounter with live eagles, hawks, falcons and owls with Jonathan Wood & The Raptor Project
Live Reptile Show
Take a look into the wild world of giant snakes, alligators, and huge turtles with Danny Conner and his amazing Reptile Adventures.
Rock’n roll with Eco-Elvis
The king of green is in the building! Enjoy your favorite Elvis hits with a twist like Compost Hotel, Viva las Vegans & Earth Day Rock
Plus a Marketplace of Activities
Eco-Arts & Craft
Discovery Green Expo
Earth Art Show & Sale
Music & Entertainment
Food Court
AND MUCH MORE!


Bring the entire family for some good “green” fun living la vida verde! Sponsorship, Partnership and Volunteer Opportunities Available!
Contact Leslie Howland for more information at (956) 681-3370 or lahowland@mcallen.net

Holiday

Este lunes 15 de marzo sera dia de descanso en Mexico, ya que el 21 se celebra el natalicio de Benito Juarez y por las nuevas disposiciones por parte del gobierno se ha cambiado la fecha, esperemos que en este puente la gente aproveche para descansar y disfrutar de la familia....

Que tengan un excelente y productivo jueves!!!

Allende`s Anniversary

This Friday, March 12, the town of Allende Nuevo Leon celebrated the 160th anniversary of its foundation and sent me an invitation to attend the parade which will take place from 3:00 pm. This city has its fair from March 4 to 14 with cultural events, musical groups, Mexican snacks (antojitos mexicanos) and rides.
Allende is a very small city, is located 1 hour from Monterrey, on the road to Ciudad Victoria, where its main activity is the transportation of cargo, the citrus industry and trade.

The Perfect Weekend in McAllen

It looks like it's going to be a perfect McAllen weekend. With a free outdoor concert early Friday night at Archer Park, and with all the activity in the Entertainment District- great dining and loads more live entertainment later in the evening, it's the perfect opportunity to try out a new place. It seems that every time I turn around there's a new lounge or restaurant opening downtown.

McAllen Dog Etiquette Class

Do you want to bring your dog to the dog park but do not know how they will react around other dogs?

This Class is just right for you!!

The new McAllen Dog Park on Tamarack Ave & 5th Street are offering a FREE Dog Etiquette Class!!Learn tips on dog behavior and socializing so that you and your pet will have a fun and safe time at the park. Bring your little friend on March 13th from 10 am to 11 am to the McAllen Dog Park to take advantage of this FREE class! The class is being organizedby: Cyndee Kendrick from Dog Obedience, Inc.

What is the McAllen Creative Arts Incubator

I know that there are still a lot of people out there who do not know what the Incubator is. Let me give you a quick rundown on what the Incubator is and what we strive to achieve with the Incubator. The McAllen Creative Art Incubator is a venue that offers artists low cost studio space with 24/7 access. Our goal is to support the continued growth of artists in all genres of art in an effort to further the arts in our community, thus giving all who live in and around McAllen a better quality of life.

We've been talking about fishing around here lately. Turns out that Falcon Lake is one of the hottest bass fishing lakes in the country and it's only about an hour and a half from here. The Arroyo and bay between South Padre Island and Port Mansfield has long been one of the best places in the country to catch trout, redfish, and flounder for years. It's also only about an hour and a half from here. As a matter of fact, I'm fishing there next week! March is one of the best months, but actually, the fishing is almost always good there. Several hotels have expressed an interest in hosting people who like to hunt and fish. We are prepared to connect guests with outfitters and hunting guides to increase the odds of a successful trip. So give us a call and "let's meet in McAllen!" For mor information call me at 956-682-2871 or drop me an email at jdeuser@mcallencvb.com.

Dog Park in McAllen...

For those dog lovers out there that need a place to take your dog on a daily jog or stroll, check out the new McAllen Dog Park located on Tamarack Ave and 5th Street it's open from 6am - 11pm every day. Check out the official website for more information about hours and rules for the park. http://mcallendogpark.ning.com/

Field Study of Birds Workshops...It's Getting Closer

"Looking for a nature learning adventure this spring? We got what you need, right here."

For those that enjoy the sounds of nature and nature related ventures you should check out the Mcallen in Spring Field Study of Birds. There are a variety of workshops on selected topics starting March 21, 2010. Contact the McAllen Convention Visitors Bureau for more information and on how to sing-in. You can check out the fees involved for each workshop here below or you can visit our site to print registration form.

March 21-27 (Raptor Behavior) $799

April 1-3 (Neotropical Migratory Birds) $599

April 8-11 (Hummers on a Wing) $599

April 15-17 (Tres Ranchos Photography) $599

http://www.mcallen.org/Visitors

956-682-2871

Artwalk tonight!

Don't miss it! Of you've always wondered what it's all about but have never made it out, tonight's the night. The weather is going to be prfect, and the art, music and friends will be at their peaks. See you there!

Studio Available at the Creative Arts Incubator

The McAllen Chamber of Commerce has a studio available for rent at the Creative Incubator. The Creative Incubator is a venue that offers low cost studios for aspiring artists. The Incubator is meant to foster the creativity of the tenants and provide emerging artists and organizations with managerial, legal and technical support. The goal of the Creative Incubator is to support the continued professional growth of artists in order to enhance the cultural and economic vitality of our community. If you are interested in applying for a studio at the Incubator, please contact Greg Schuller at 956-687-2787.

The McAllen CVB has embarked on a project to revise our web page. The web page we currently have is over two years old. Two years ago, people were raving about it because it was vivid, imformative, and easy to navigate. But, as an example of how fast technology and our expectations evolve, the web page is now a little cluttered, a little "busy" and not as vibrant in impact as it was. We started to "tweak it" and then decided it needed more than tweaking. MPC, our award winning web developer, has already designed a new home page that we like a lot and will, within a few weeks, fill the page up with photos, information, calenders, and perhaps most important, easy to navigate links to hotels, attractions, meeting planner information as well as other critical content. Soooo, give us a look in April and tell us what you think! Your feed back is valued and you can reach me at jdeuser@mcallencvb.com or 956-682-2871

Chipinque Ecological Park

This Monday I made the delivery of binoculars to C.P. Reynol Martinez Rivera, Chipinque Ecological Park Administrative and Human Resources Manager on the name of the American Birding Association through the McAllen Chamber of Commerce.

They will provide or leased binoculars to their visitors in the module which is on the plateau (la Meseta) of Chipinque, to begin to teach people of Monterrey to become a birwatcher

Wedding & Quinceanera Fair

The McAllen Convention Center will be hosting a Wedding & Quinceanera Fair on Sunday, March 7th, 2010 from 12pm to 6pm. The fair is a great opportunity for those in the planning stage to gather information on venues and other event necessities. It can also be a great tool for some last minute ideas for your event!