McAllen Icons Honored in Día de los Muertos Celebration

Mike Allen, Joe Vera, Kirk Clark

The McAllen Chamber of Commerce and McAllen Economic Development Corporation (EDC) will host a special Altar de Muertos celebration honoring three influential leaders who helped shape McAllen’s growth and identity: Mike Allen, founder and former President & CEO of McAllen EDC; Kirk Clark, visionary leader of Clark Chevrolet; and Joe Vera, longtime Assistant City Manager of McAllen.

The McAllen Remembers “Ofrenda Comunitaria” will take place Tuesday, October 28, 2025, from 5:30 to 8:00 p.m. at the McAllen Chamber of Commerce, 1200 Ash Ave. The event is free and open to the public. It offers a meaningful way to celebrate the traditions of Día de los Muertos while honoring the vision and impact of these three community icons.

“Mike Allen, Kirk Clark, and Joe Vera represent the very best of McAllen’s spirit—visionary leadership, dedication to progress, and love for community,” said Elizabeth Suarez, President and CEO of the McAllen Chamber of Commerce and McAllen EDC. “Through this Altar de Muertos, we honor their lives, their contributions, and the indelible mark they left on our city’s history.”

Mike Allen – Founder, McAllen Economic Development Corporation
This year’s altar pays tribute to Mr. Allen’s extraordinary leadership and his lifelong dedication to fostering the economic growth of McAllen. Recognized as a visionary, Allen was instrumental in transforming the city’s economy from one rooted primarily in agriculture to a vibrant manufacturing hub, leveraging bi-national opportunities with Reynosa, Tamaulipas, Mexico.

During his tenure, Mr. Allen oversaw the McAllen Foreign Trade Zone (FTZ), one of the largest inland ports in the United States, overseeing over $1 billion in goods annually. His work positioned McAllen as a gateway for global trade and industry, opening doors for international investors.

Beyond his professional achievements, Allen served in numerous organizations, including the American Economic Development Council, Mexican Chamber of Commerce, American Chamber of Commerce, Reynosa Maquila Association, McAllen Citizens League, Texas Border Coalition, the Governor’s Task Force on Management and Labor Relations, and as a South Texas College Trustee.

Kirk Clark – President, Clark Chevrolet
Kirk Clark, a respected business leader and philanthropist, built upon the legacy of his family’s enterprise, Clark Chevrolet, one of the oldest and most recognized dealerships in South Texas. Under his leadership, Clark Chevrolet grew not only as a business but as a strong community partner, known for supporting local causes, educational initiatives, and civic engagement.

Clark’s entrepreneurial vision and steadfast commitment to customer service made Clark Chevrolet a household name in the Rio Grande Valley. Beyond business, his contributions to civic life reflected his deep belief in giving back, helping to shape McAllen’s growth as a city of opportunity, culture, and innovation.

Joe Vera – City Manager, City of McAllen
For decades, Joe Vera devoted his career to public service and to enhancing the quality of life for McAllen residents. As City Manager, he was instrumental in guiding McAllen’s growth through strategic urban planning, infrastructure development, and a commitment to making McAllen one of the most livable cities in South Texas.

Vera championed projects that improved city services, expanded parks and recreation opportunities, and strengthened McAllen’s role as a cultural and economic hub in the region. Known for his professionalism, humility, and deep care for the community, Vera’s legacy is seen every day in the thriving city he helped build.

The McAllen Chamber of Commerce and McAllen EDC invite our community and business partners to join in this celebration of remembrance and gratitude.