Adelante Newsletter - May 2008 Issue

HOT OFF THE PRESS! HHCC 2008 BUSINESS REFERENCES ARE HERE

The Harlingen Hispanic Chamber of Commerce proudly announces the completion of its 2008 Business Reference. The reference guide is available to all members and includes a complete listing of HHCC members alphabetically and categorically. The business reference also highlights Harlingen's workforce, economy, transportation, schools, and healthcare. Featured on the front cover and Hispanic Chamber members: Brenda Amaya, Dr. Nolan E. Perez, and Vanessa Sandoval. Extra copies of the business reference may be picked up at the chamber office.

TSTC CORPORATE COLLEGE TO OFFER TWO COURSES IN BANKING

Banking industry representatives and Corporate College officials designed and will soon implement two new courses.

"The classes are going to be real assets for these people by improving their understanding of the industry functions and their roles in the financial system. We will cover terms and the basics of economics," said Joaquin Lopez, vice president of operations for First Community Bank in San Benito.

He will teach the Banking Principles course, which will meet at Texas State Technical College Harlingen from 6 pm to 9 pm Tuesdays and Thursdays from June 3 through July 10. Topics will include credits, deposits, and payments; characteristics of bank products, services and markets; the role of regulatory agencies in bank operations, and the technology of banking operations.

The Bank Teller course will be held from 6 pm to 9 pm Tuesdays and Thursdays from July 22 through August 26. Elements of the class include bank security, practical knowledge of teller equipment and customer transactions. Students will learn to identify the differences between negotiable instruments and proper endorsements; demonstrate the ability to handle cash, identify counterfeit bills and balance teller drawers, and define and articulate banking terms.

Banking Principles (BNKG 1002) is desinged for potential employees seeking entry-level positions of for new employees working at financial institutions. The Bank Teller course (BNKG 1004) develops fundamental skills to operate a teller window. Both coursed involve 32 hours of class time and a $130 fee per student.

TSTC Continuing Education Director Angie Gonzalez said that the advisory committee worked for two months to set up the curriculum. She said that each class should accommodate about 15 students.

"We want to look more at professional development to increase and strengthen the business partnerships between the private sector and TSTC Corporate College," she said.

For example, Continuing Education recently added two new coursed - Developing Effective Teams and Marketing for Business - that enhance the skills for a wide range of business supervisors, board members and professionals. TSTC Corporate College and its business partners also are studying more new coursed to improve professionals' qualifications like accounting, credit reports and loan analysis procedures.

For online class registration go to www.tstccorporatecollege.com/register or phone Corporate College at 800-852-8784, extension 4606, or 956-364-4606.

Article provided by TSTC Communications writer, Dave Ralph

RIBBON CUTTINGS AND MIXERS

Jumpin and Party - A ribbon cutting and grand opening celebration was held for Jumpin and Party on April 10, 2008. Jumpin and Party is the Valley's only inflatable party house. They have everything from giant inflatable slides to a climbing rockwall. Jumping and Party has a private party room and a variety of party packages to choose from. Schools and organizations can also rent out the facility for lock-ins or field trips. For those that do not have an event can still take the kids to have a jumpin good time at Open Jump and Climb. Kids can jump, slide and climb for $5 on Tuesdays and Thursdays. It's great for those really hot summer days. Guests enjoyed food and refreshments as kids took turns on the rockwall. If you would like more informaton on the services Jumpin and Party provides, call 956-412-JUMP or stop by and check out the facility at 960 S. 77 Sunshine Strip, located in the Creekside Plaza next to Curves.

FASTSIGNS Celebrates 10 Years - FASTSIGNS celebrated their 10th Anniversary with an After 5 Mixer on April 24, 2008. Harlingen Hispanic Chamber and Harlingen Area Chamber, guests and friends gathered for the celebration and enjoyed great food, drinks and networking. FASTSIGN owners Rod and Rose Snell were very excited to share this wonderful achievements with their guests. FASTSIGNS is located at 1611 S. 77 Sunshine Strip in Harlingen. They also have a second location in McAllen. If you would like more information about FASTSIGNS, visit their friendly staff or call 956-428-0007.

MEMBER NEWS -

BENNY'S AIRE, SERVING THE VALLEY 15 YEARS

This year we are please to announce that Benny's Aire, Inc. is celebrating their 15th Anniversary providing A/C sales and service to customers Valley-wide. We want to thank the Valley for their continued support and loyalty for keeping Benny's Aire, Inc. in business for 15 years and counting.

IT'S THAT TIME!! Bring out the lawn chairs, blankets and the entire family for a night of BLUES and family fun.

Saturday, May 17, 2008 - 6 pm

Saturday, June 14, 2008 - 6 pm

Saturday, August 23, 2008 - 6 pm

NEW AND RENEWED HISPANIC CHAMBER MEMBERS - JANUARY 2008-APRIL 2008

POSTAGE RATES TO INCREASE

On May 12 the USPS will adjust prices for mailing services - First Class Mail, Standard Mail, Periodicals, Package Services, and Special Services. The average increase by class of mail is at or below the rate of inflation as measured by the Consumer Price Index.

A First-Class mail stamp will be at $0.42. Customers can continue to use the Forever Stamps that they purchased prior to May 12 at $0.41, even after the price change. We will have 5 billion Forever Stamps in stock to meet the increase demand before the price change. Forever Stamps are widely available through Post Office, Contract Postal Units, consignment locations, Automated Postage Centers, vending, and atThe Postal Store.We also will have a $0.62 stamp available shortly after May 12 for 1-ounce non-machinable First-Class Mail letters such as square greeting cards. Information provided by USPS.com

Want to advertise your employment opportunities? Hispanic Chamber members can post job opportunities by simply submitting the information by e-mail to hhcoc@harlingenchamber.com or by fax to 956-364-1879. Take advantage of this feature service available exclusively to HHCC members. Visit www.harlingenchamber.com for current member job postings.