Raymondville Port Mansfield

RAYMONDVILLE PORT MANSFIELD & Surrounding Willacy Areas

HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS

COMING SOON TO RAYMONDVILLE

A new Holiday Inn Express & Suites is will be coming to Raymondville at 125 South Expressway 77.

The hotel will offer 75 rooms including two Presidential suites, an indoor pool and a hot Continental breakfast.

It will also offer a meeting room and a room for conferences or events.

The location of the hotel is conveniently located at the entrance of the City on the east side of the expressway. Guests are within close distance of eateries, shopping and 20 miles from the best fishing in Texas, our own Port Mansfield.

Construction is scheduled to be complete by the end of 2014.

The contact number will be 956-699-3111.

Raymondville Tourism Guide

• page 2

CALENDAR Of Events

JANUARY The Willacy County Showboard hosts the Willacy County Livestock Show for all Willacy County students at the showgrounds the last of January. The showgrounds are located off Business 77 south of Raymondville MARCH A Winter Texan Golf Tournament is held the second week of March at the Raymondville Golf Course in appreciation of their continuous stay throughout the years in Raymondville and Willacy County APRIL American Cancer Society hosts its annual Relay for Life event at one of the County schools. Raymondville hosted in 2014.

The Willacy County Heritage Gala is held at the L.E. Franks Tourist Center as the signature fundraiser for the Raymondville Chamber of Commerce Willacy Pioneer Days is a festival that embraces the heritage and agriculture of Willacy County and is held at the Willacy County Showgrounds. Ranch rodeo, roping, dutch oven cook offs and many family friendly activities are held.

TThhee RRaayymmoonnddvvilillele rcee mbbeerr ooff CCoo,mm,ananmmddththeeerc CChhaam eCiCityty y” ntnty”

ou yCou acyC illac Will ngW “s “sererviving Toththee youuTo illeewwelelcocommeeyo dvill ondv aymmon of ofRRay lley.y.

Valle deVa ande Gran aytotoththeeRRioioGr eway “G “Gatatew op-ewininggop natuturereviview hes,s,na nche ranc lturere,,ra icultu gricu AAgr artt ofththeear anddststatateeof ngan fishihing ties,s,fis rtuninitie po portu richlhlyydidiveversrsee ourrric terizizeeou acter arac char ogyych hnololog tec techn ob-cannob youuca herereyo aceewwhe plac ity. .AApl unity cocommmmun opssininththee ttonncrcrop owininggcocotto plow ctorrpl tracto seservrveeaatra ancece,,aawwininddtuturbrbininee lds,s,wwhihileleatataadidiststan fie field on Commeeon gy. . Co enerergy eannwwinindden ucesesclclea oduc pr prod timeetoto sommeetim keso eat,t,tatake haveveaabibitetetotoea ov overer,,ha ayaawwhihilele!! ns,,ststay eans alllmmea byal anddby opan sh shop

ing and wildlife viewing. Tours to otherwise inaccessible ranches and Port Mansfield are a part of this event.

The Raymondville Chamber of Commerce hosts its annual Downtown Christmas Parade Lyford hosts a downtown Christmas Parade

Willacy County Art Gala is held at the Willacy * Market Days is scheduled for the First WeekCounty Art Gallery and is hosted by its mem- end of the Month at the Raymondville Plaza bers offering different themes every other MAY and showcasing local artists talent.

Willacy County Young Farmers *Chamber Networking Breakfasts are held Fishing Tournament every first Wednesday of the Month at the RuNOVEMBER ral Technical Center with different businesses Port Mansfield hosts an Alzheimer’s Walk Viva Raymondville Awards Reception hosting the meal.

JULY Annual July 4th Celebration held at the Ed- DECEMBER die Stark Park including a patriotic parade, The Raymondville Police Department hosts a cook offs and a round-robin softball tourna- “Christmas Fair” and raises funds for the loNature photos by cal “Cops for Tots” providing Christmas gifts ment Robert Brashear Port Mansfield Annual Fishing Tournament to local children 700 FM 3168 / P.O. BOX 746 and Greg Storms Raymondville, TX 78580

The Raymondville Chamber of Commerce OCTOBER Wild in Willacy Boot Fest Nature Festival is hosts its annual Tree Lighting the first Thursheld annually on the last weekend of Octo- day of December ber. This festival highlights nature and birdRaymondville Tourism Guide

• page 3

(956) 689-1864

chamber@granderiver.net www.raymondvillechamber.com

Editing and graphics by: Elma Chavez, Patricia Headrick, Melba Cantu

A LOOK INSIDE WILLACY COUNTY Historical Museum Hidden behind the seemingly plain walls of the old school on South Seventh Street are treasures that delight those interested in local history and local color. The Willacy County Historical and Community Center is home to varied treasures that range from King and Kenedy Ranch memorabilia to thousands of historical photographs. A history buff that enjoys reading about the area’s history could spend days in this hometown museum.

Among the museum’s artistic treasures are a fascinating collection of local artist Elmer Kochert’s painted murals on six exterior halls within the museum.

The museum has gone through partial renovations and includes an exhibit dating to 1554 which tells the story of a shipwreck near Port Mansfield.

The Costume Room, as it has been dubbed, was refurbished by local ranch owner, the late Stella Zarate, and her daughter, Monica Burdette. From World War I and II uniforms to Mary Bertha Garcia Mallett’s ornate ball gown worn in the 1956 Fiesta de San Jacinto in San Antonio, the room contains many interesting items. Dressed mannequins don exquisite hand beaded gowns and trains worn during Corpus Christi’s Buccaneer Days celebrations and Laredo’s Washington’s Birthday celebrations, among other events.

A stroll through the room allows the visitor to imagine the pomp of the coronations represented by local girls and the military representation from young men of Raymondville.

The area’s farming and ranching history is the focus of the separate Farm and Ranch Museum, which includes several fascinating collections. The saying “You have to see it to believe it” applies, as only a few highlights have been included here. For only a small entry fee, visitors are welcome on Saturdays and Wednesdays from 1pm to 4 pm to spend time in this historical treasure house. The address to the museum is 427 South Seventh. Contact number 956-689-3850.

Raymondville Tourism Guide • page 4

WILLACY COUNTY

Art League in Raymondville In 1947, a group of eight women gathered for the purpose of organizing the active artists in Willacy County; they decided upon the name “Willacy County Artist Guild” for their group. The elected officers and dues were set at $1 annually. Mrs. George Campbell was elected the Guild’s first president. Objectives and purposes were to be threefold: studying art and cultivating an appreciation for art, encouraging the development of art among county artists and the community, and sponsoring two or more art exhibits annually. The group’s motto, “Life is too short to be little” was chosen; the Lantana was chosen as the Guild’s flower.

Green and yellow were selected as the Guild’s colors.

Today, the Willacy County Art League meets in the Creative Arts Center, adjacent to the Historical Center. The Art League has about 30 members from throughout the Valley. They hold monthly meetings, workshops and demonstrations. For more information, call at 956-966-6292.

Raymondville Tourism Guide

• page 5

accommodations Willacy County

Holiday Inn Express & Suites

The Holiday Inn Express will be complete by late December 2014. The hotel will include 75 rooms with two Presidential suites. It will also showcase a conference and event center. A hot continental breakfast is sure to please its guests. The hotel will be located at 125 South Expressway 77, with the contact number of 956-699-3111

America’s Best Value Inn & Suites

450 S. Expressway 77, Raymondville This hotel offers 40 rooms to guests with 24 hour front desk service. Rooms offer high speed internet (WiFi), cable TV, microwave, work desk, coffee maker, and blow dryer. Available to guests are continental breakfast, laundry services, ice machine, and swimming pool. A party/meeting room is available to accommodate small groups up to 45 people. Big truck parking. Shuttle service to guests with advance notice. Visit www.bestvalueinn.com. Or call 956-6895900 / 1-888-315 2378 to reserve your room.

Texas Inn Raymondville

Antler’s Inn

1800 Expressway 77 South, Raymondville This motel offers 30 rooms to its guests with a 24 hour front desk service. Room amenities include microwave, refrigerator, and cable TV. Ice machine, vending machines, and coffee are available in lobby area.

Truck parking available. Call 956-689-5531 to reserve your room. Most major credit cards are accepted.

La Quinta Inn & Suites

118 N Expressway 77, Raymondville.

This hotel offers 36 rooms to its guests with a 24 hour front desk service. it prides itself in comfort, quality and value. The hotel offers ample truck parking, RV and boat parking and BBQ/cooking areas.

The large pool offers a pool side relaxing area. Room amenities include, hi-speed internet, expanded cable, coffee pot, iron and iron board. Group discounts. Meeting room to accommodate 20-25 people. Continental breakfast. Pets allowed. Call Texas Inn for reservations 956-689-4141. Most major credit cards are accepted. Texas Inn also offers Herts Rent a Car Service.

128 N. Expressway 77, Raymondville This hotel offers 60 rooms to its guests with a 24 hour front desk service. La Quinta Inn and Suites is a highly recognized hotel chain and is the first hotel that visitors see upon entering Raymondville. This new hotel features a high tech meeting room and a breakfast area for approximately 30 guests. In addition, a conference room that provides seating for approximately sixty guests is available for special functions.

The hotel also offers a beautiful outdoor pool/Jacuzzi, fitness room, and a board room.

Visit: www.http://6304.lq.com or call 956-689-4000 to reserve your room. Fax 956-689-4178. Most major credit cards are accepted

Raymondville Tourism Guide

• page 6

schools Willacy County

Lasara Independent School District

Raymondville Independent School District

The largest school district in Willacy County, Raymondville ISD serves approximately 2,125 students. Two elementary campuses, one middle school, and one high school are included in the district.

Raymondville ISD offers a full-day kindergarten, middle and high school athletics (31-3A), band, and UIL programs. Raymondville High School offers Advanced Placement and Pre-AP courses and dual enrollment courses with the University of Texas Brownsville and Texas State Technical College. Raymondville Independent School District, 419 FM 3168., Raymondville, Texas 78580 (956) 689-2471. www.raymondville.org

Ignite Public Schools and Community Service Center, Inc.

It is an accelerated school accredited by the State of Texas. It serves 130 students from Pk-3rd grade and 9 th-12th grades. All state mandated courses are offered along with a multitude of other services for the community such as a High School Equivalency Program (HSEP) GED, Social Service Information, and Referrals to local agencies. Students at Ignite Public School are attracted to the small learning environment.

Please come and visit our center at 1205 South 7th Street, Raymondville Texas 78580, (956- 689-3300 or our website at www.Ignitepublicschools.org

is comprised of an elementary campus from Pre-K through 8th Grade and a 12th grade campus. Lasara ISD is located 10 miles west of Raymondville and serves approximately 475 students. Lasara ISD offers band to 6th thru 12th graders. It also offers a variety of extra-curricular activities to students in all grade levels. Lasara ISD excels in academics as well as music and athletics. It’s recognized as a T-STEAM Academy. Lasara ISD, P.O. Box 57, Lasara, Texas 78561 956642-3271. www.lasaraisd.net

San Perlita Independent School District

The Disctrict has a campus located in northeast Willacy County, where approximately 290 Pre-K through 12th grade students from San Perlita, Port Mansfield, and surrounding farm/ranch communities attend school. Athletics and many other extra-curricular activites are offered to all students attending the school district. Concurrent enrollment classes with TSTC area offered to juniors and seniors. San Perlita ISD P.O. Box 37, San Perlita, Texas 78590 (956) 248-5250. www.spisd.org

Lyford Consolidated Independent School District

Campuses are located at Lyford, Texas, five miles south of Raymondville.

Lyford CISD has a student population of approximately 1,605 with a teaching and administration staff of 254. Its three campuses, serving pre-kindergarten through 12th grades. A wide variety of educational and extracurricular activities contribute to Lyford CISD’s goal to keep children first and to assure our “Commitment to Excellence.” Lyford CISD, 8204 Simon Gomez Blvd., Lyford, TX (956) 347-3900. www.lyfordisd.org Raymondville Tourism Guide

• page 7

City of Raymondville Economic Development Corporation rayecodev@prontonet.net

www.raymondvilletx.us

700 Fm 3168 • Raymondville, Texas 78580 • Phone (956)-689-1862 Catalina Ozuna Executive Director President Vice President Secertary/Treasurer-

Orlando A. Correa Eziquiel D. Cavazos Virginia Torres

Members: Eleazar Garcia, Jr. Neil Patel

George Solis Michael Wetegrove

The City of Raymondville Economic Development Corporation offers professional personal assistance

~Statistical and Demographic Research ~ Site Selection ~ Financing Options ~ Workforce Recruiting/Training

Raymondville Rural Technical Skills Training Distance Learning Small Business Incubator Center

City of Raymondville Economic Development Corporation Willacy County Industrial Foundation Chamber of Commerce Workforce Solutions University of Texas at Brownsville Texas Southmost College TSTC Valley Federal Credit Union

Consider Raymondville for your next business venture.

Raymondville Tourism Guide

• page 8

Raymondville Strategic Location

Population Growth

Raymondville and Willacy County 1960 Raymondville

Willacy Co.

1970

1980

1990

2000

2010

7,987

9,493 8,8800

9,733

11.284

17,705 20,082

22,134

20,084 15,570 17,495

Source: U.S. Census Bureau, City of Raymondville

Raymondville is a quaint community approximately 50 miles north of Brownsville and South Padre Island. Its proximity to Mexico is extremely beneficial for product transportation and commercial trade with accessibility from six international bridges including Brownsville, Harlingen, Progresso, and McAllen. With the future corridor I-69 running adjacent to Raymondville, transportation ease will surely benefit daily operations of any organization as far north as Canada and south into Mexico.

25000

Distance to Major Texas Cities

20000

Abilene 466 Amarillo 715 Austin 275 Beaumont 387 Corpus Christi 109 Dallas 467 El Paso 751 Ft. Worth 462 Houston 302 Lubbock 605

15000 10000 Raymondville

5000

Willacy

0 1970

1980

1990

2000

2010

Ad Valoreum / Property Taxes Rate Per $100 Assessed Value

City of Raymondville Willacy County Willacy Co. Hospital District Willacy Co. Navigation District Willacy Co. Road & Bridge Willacy Co. Emergency Service District Raymondville ISD South Texas ISD Total Rate Per $100 Value 2.90045

0.7556 0.569900 0.03843 0.07963 0.105380 0.035310 1.267000 0.049200

185

398

140 # to increase in the next few months. Total after will be close

148

349 194

5.00% 6.00%

2.00% 6.25% Raymondville Tourism Guide

120

74

Raymondville ISD Bureau of Prisons City of Raymondville Wal-Mart Willacy Co. Regional Detention Center Corrections Corporation of America Willacy County Valley Telephone Co-op H.E.B

Retail Sales Tax City of Raymondville State of Texas Total Tax Rate 0.0825000

420 559 381 222 584 476 180 377 558

90

Hotel / Motel Taxes City of Raymondville State of Texas Total Hotel /Motel Tax 0.11000

Lufkin Odessa San Angelo San Antonio Texarkana Tyler Victoria Waco Wichita Falls

• page 9

Family Physicians

• Complete Physical Exams • Echocardiography • Ultrasound

• X-Ray

• Lab

Dr. Albert L. Smith, M.D., P.A. Monica Saenz, P. A. -C Christie Ambriz, P. A. -C Taking care of the health needs of Raymondville & Willacy County residents for over 30 years.

 �� � ��

Circle R Electric & Air Conditioning

Ask about

KWIK COMFORT

CERTIFIED DEALER 405 S. 6th St. Raymondville, TX 78580

Financing

Ariel Rebeles

Cell: (956) 245-5138 Office: (956) 689-2634

Commercial & Residential Services TECL 26648

www.circler@vtxt.net Raymondville Tourism Guide

• page 10

TALC B0002884

RAYMONDVILLE AND WILLACY COUNTY HIGHLIGHTS UNIQUE S OPPOR HOPPING TUNITIE S

“CHAMBER RECOGNITION AT STATE CAPITOL” JULY 4TH FLAG RAISING

willacy relay

SOCIAL EVENTS

for life

RIBBON GS

CUTTING S

TEE MEETIN

CITY COMMIT

rodeo

CHAMBER ROYAL AMBASSADORS

groung breaking ceremony at port mansfield

Raymondville Tourism Guide

• page 11

Salt Lakes of the Rio Grande Valley Before there was a United States or Texas, before there was a Mexico or Tamaulipas, there were the Coahuiltecans of the Rio Grande plains and the Huastec tribes from the Sierra Madre Orientals east to Vera Cruz. While they were of different cultures and languages, they all had one necessity in common, salt. For hundreds of miles they walked to mine and gather salt at the lakes now known as La Sal Del Rey, La Sal Vieja, and La Sal Blanca.

These three magnificent salt lakes are located in the northeastern corner of Hidalgo County near Linn, Texas and the northwestern stretches of Willacy County. After Spaniards discovered the lakes, salineros continued to mine the salt and then it was shipped by wagon and cart as far south as Mexico City and by ship to even more distant sites.

The lakes are located in large wind-swept depressions on top of pre-historic salt domes with no present drainage.

Even though artesian springs feed the lakes it is unsustainable during dry months so the lakes levels have always swollen and contracted with rainfall and major storms.

Salt was still harvested at Sal Del Rey (Salt of the King) and Sal Vieja (Old Salt) by Rio Grande Valley pioneers as late as the mid-1930s. The lakes have also been used for other v entures such as the harvesting of brine shrimp, therapeutic wading pools, and decorating items with salt crystals. In more recent times, the hyper saline water has been used to aid in oil and natural gas drilling.

D

DONAHO Insurance Agency, Inc. DONALD P. DONAHO SHURLENE R. DONAHO

★

204 S. 7th St. Raymondville, Texas 78580 956.689.5573 • 956.689.6212 fax

www.duddlestensfuneralhome.com

United Pentecostal Church of Raymondville

Sal Del Rey and surrounding tracts were purchased by the United States Fish & Wildlife Service (USF&W) in 1990 from the Eloise Campbell family. The other two lakes were added to the refuge system a few years later. Both areas are available for tours depending on the availability of volunteers.

For tour information contact the Santa Ana National Wildlife Refuge at (956) 784-7500.

“Where Strangers become Friends and Friends become Family!”

1255 E. Hidalgo Ave., E. 186 Raymondville, Texas 78580 956-689-2576 Pastor Mark D. Uzupan

Reaching out to others through: Free Bible Studies and Marriage Counseling Ladies Ministries and Daughter’s Of Zion Prayer Group Men’s Prayer and Fellowship Sunday School, Puppets and Drama’s Bible Clearly taught and Lived Out Bilingual Sign Language available Hospital and Jail Ministries

Service Schedules: Sunday School 9:45 am, Sunday Worship 11 am, Wednesday Service 7:30 pm, Monday Night Prayer 7pm Thursday and Friday Morning Prayer 6 am Visit our Website: www.raymondvilleupc.net Email: info@raymondvilleupc.net Raymondville Tourism Guide

• page 12

RAYMONDVILLE Willacy County

Raymondville,Texas…..Raymondville has a population of 11,284 and is known as the “Gateway to the Valley”. Located in the city is a Police Department, a Volunteer Fire Department, the Willacy County Emergency Medical Service facility, Raymondville City Hall, the Raymondville Economic Development Inc., and the Raymondville Chamber of Commerce “serving Willacy County”. The City is governed by a city mayor and four city commissioners. There are three city parks located in Raymondville: the Eddie Stark Park, the Downtown Pocket Park and the Pony League Park.

Lyford, Texas…Lyford has a population of 2,611. City hall is located at 196 W. Main, Lyford, Texas 78569 with the phone number 956-347-3512 and a fax of 956-347-5434. The Municipal court and the Lyford Multi Service Center are housed in the same location. Lyford has a police department and a volunteer fire department and is governed by a city mayor and 5 city commissioners whom meet twice a month. The City has a sports complex along with a city park which is used for festivals and community events.

San Perlita, Texas…..San Perlita has a population of 573. It has a city hall located at 14168 7th Street, San Perlita, Texas, 78590.

The contact number is 956-248-5725 and has a volunteer fire

department and a Community Center that hosts community activities from school programs such as the ACE program. San Perlita is governed by a City Mayor and two city commissioners whom meet once a month.

Lasara Texas-Lasara has a population of 1039 in the community and has a Volunteer Fire Department with a very active Community Center. The community Center is sponsored by the Lasara ISD and holds health, housing and job referrals for its community. It is open from Monday thru Friday from 8:00 am to 4:30 pm. Its phone number is 956-6425100.

Port Mansfield, Texas-Port Mansfield has a population of 226 and is know as “one of the 10 best fishing areas in the country”. It is governed by the Willacy county Navigation Distric (956-689-3332 or 1-800-6635707). The Port Mansfield Chamber of Commerce has a website:www. portmansfieldchamber.org and has a contact number of 956-944-2354.

Sebastian, Texas-Sebastian has a population of 1917 and has its own Volunteer Fire Department.

Other small rural communities in Willacy County include Willamar and Santa Monica.

EDUCATION CHANGES LIVES

BUTLER’S Appliance Sales & Service

Get quality education that The University of Texas System offers in Brownsville, and plan for a great future.

38 Year’s Experience Servicing washers, dryers, air conditioners, water heaters, electric stoves, etc.

13850 Butler Rd. Raymondville, TX (956) 746-1386 ab10348@gmail.com

Ana Butler

•

Groundbreaking research

•

Job search help

•

Online learning

Visit utb4u.com today!

WE’LL CHANGE YOUR LIFE.

We also sell New appliances

UTRGV coming fall 2015.

Raymondville Tourism Guide

• page 13

Laura’s Floral Designs Business Hours Monday-Friday 8:00am-6:00pm Saturday 10:00am-5:00pm Sundays By Appointment

334 W. Hidalgo Raymondville, Texas 78580 (956) 689-3700 (956) 398-7791 laurauniquefloraldesign@yahoo.com www.uniquefloraldesign.com

F&R PACKING P.O. BOX 354 • RAYMONDVILLE, TX 78550

Specializing in Fruits & Vegetables Deborah Sosa Cell: 956-746-9669 dsosafr@yahoo.com

David Lopez Cell: 956-746-6599 dllpoezfr@yahoo.com

D. L. INVESTMENTS, LLC Lending A Helping Hand

MS. SOUTH TEXAS SENIOR PAGEANT

MS. SOUTH TEXAS SENIOR PAGEANT

956.689.2765 OFFICE

956.746.6599 CELL

Contact: Elia Lopez,Owner/Director Cell: 956.367.1636 • Email: alopez1381@gmail www.mssouthtexassr.com

Why Rent When You Can Own?

DLINVESTMENTSLLC @ YAHOO.COM

Raymondville Tourism Guide

• page 14

annual july 4th festival The Centennial Celebration for Raymondville was started in 2004 when the Raymondville Chamber of Commerce and the City of Raymondville partnered to produce a three day event. A history book entitled “Rails to Rio” by Glenn Harding and Cindy Lee was written to commemorate the occasion. Statewide recognition was received as “Best Promotion Promotional Event” and an annual tradition was started.

Annually, on the weekend closest to the Fourth of July, a citywide festival is hosted at the Eddie Stark park.

A popular round robin softball tournament that has continued to grow , cook offs, contests and a fireworks grand finale are all part of the popular summer event

Meet Your Community Team First Community is proud to be in Raymondville.

Michael Scott President/CEO

Gordon Magdalena Senior Vice President Lending

Billy Best Sr. Vice President Lending Banking Center Manager

Mary Delgado Retail Banking Officer Asst. Banking Center Mgr.

Linda Duarte Retail Banker

Esmer Jalomo Retail Banking Officer

Duby Montalvo Teller

Nicole Rodriguez Teller

First class service on a first name basis is alive and well right here in Willacy County at our Banking Center at 729 E. Hidalgo Avenue, next to the Raymondville Post Office.

See our team for checking, savings, consumer and commercial loans and ag loans as well. Come in and relax with a cup of coffee.....we’ll be looking for you.

San Benito 956.399.3331 Los Fresnos 956.233.4100 FREE ATM USAGE AT ALL STRIPES LOCATIONS

Raymondville 956.699.4000

• page 15

Brownsville 956.547.5100

South Padre Island 956.761.8589

24-Hour Telebank 956.361.3661

www. FCBWeb.net Raymondville Tourism Guide

Harlingen 956.428.4100

Edinburg 956.664.8000 Member FDIC

WINDFARMS Willacy County

Farmis a product of E.ON Climate and Renewables (EC&R) , and is responsible for the group’s large scale renewable energy activities around the world. www.eon.com/ renewables

A new sight for Willacy County are the newly completed majestic sized wind turbines that may be seen by travelers driving east Willacy County farm to market roads, or at a distance off Expressway 77 traveling north or south. The turbines are a very curious site and surely perk the interest of anyone seeing them for the first time.

Duke Energy Renewables completed Los Vientos I and II Windpower projests in the eastern part of the Willacy County area adding 402 megawatts of power. The project was completed in December 2012 and was able to bring approximately 600 temporary jobs during the construction phases. This project is the largest ever windpower construction project that Duke Energy Renewables has constructed to date.

From the early part of 2011 thru the latter part of 2012, Willacy County had two different windfarm companies complete two separate projects, bringing a temporary economic impact to the area for the duration of the construction phase.

Magic Valley Wind Farm, located approximately 5 miles east of Raymondville, and the first wind energy project in Willacy County ,is powered by 112 Vestas 1.8 MW turbines providing more than 200 MW of power. This construction, completed

by Blattner Energy created 200 temporary jobs and 20 permanent jobs. Magic Valley Wind

The creation of these two windfarms has provided an economic shot in the arm to some farmers, ranchers and the community in general. www.duke-energy.com/renewable

La Quinta Inn & Suites Raymondville

La Quinta Inn & Suites Raymondville

The La Quinta Inn & Suites Raymondville was recently named a 2012 TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence award winner!

The La Quinta Inn & Suites Raymondville, located off Hwy 186 and Hwy 77 in Texas, is only one half mile from Downtown Pocket Park and minutes from the Department of Homeland Immigration Center and Correction Facilities. We’re close to shopping and nice selection of ...eating options.

Our courteous staff provides a warm and inviting atmosphere and loads of amenities to make your stay most enjoyable. Catch up on

some email in the business center; 1500 square feet of meeting space will surely seal the deal, the heated outdoor pool and spa are most refreshing. Enjoy full access to state of the art fitness center, and guest laundry facility.

Each Texas sized comfy room, at the La Quinta Inn & Suites in Raymondville TX, has standard amenities like free high-speed Internet access; microwave oven, refrigerator, huge 40-inch LCD HD TVs

htpp://6304.lq.com

with HBO, and much more. Our upgraded king rooms with pillowtop mattresses, down pillows, Heavenly Duvets w/250 thread striped sheets, and larger plush towels. Some rooms have a relaxing leather recliner and some have sofa sleepers. Come down on business or bring the whole family to Raymondville; we have plenty of room!

You will love the Free Bright Side Breakfast® we serve each morning with sausages and eggs Mon-Fri.

128 North Expressway 77 • Raymondville, TX 78580 • Phone: 1-956-689-4000 Raymondville Tourism Guide

• page 16

La Jarra Ranch

Where Distinctive Tranquility Meets the South Texas Coastal Bend

Nature Photographer’s Paradise Capture Wildlife Interacting with Nature

We are creating an oasis of peace and solitude where ….

• You may choose to become part of our Senior Housing Facilities or Residences.

• You may bring your RV and stay a day, a month or a lifetime.

• You may hike or bike around the facilities taking in all that the natural outdoors has to offer.

• You may sit by the pond or in one of the bird & butterfly photo blinds to capture images in a camera or just unforgettable memories.

• You may stay in the original Ranch Headquarters and imagine yourself back at the turn of the century. The original house is being completely restored to entertain groups of bird and nature photographers.

This was the original homestead of E.B. Raymond – Rancher, Banker and Founder of Raymondville, Texas.

The brand originated on a hot dusty day when Raymond and his men were working cattle. Raymond looked up and said, “ I would give anything for a big pitcher of cool water from Barton Springs in Austin” and vowed if he ever owned his own herd of cattle, they would be branded with a water pitcher.

He registered this brand in 1882, and it has been in use ever since.

The original home of E.B. Raymond will be developed into the Nature and Heritage Center. A natural wildlife wetland pond exists on the site and is home to many different species of migratory birds and native Texas Wildlife.

The site will become a public nature conservatory where bird enthusiasts and residents can enjoy great Texas Wildlife.

La Jarra is designing a natural oasis for your enjoyment.

We hope you have enjoyed your glimpse at these exciting developments at La Jarra Ranch.

Come join us and stay awhile.

To find out more about upcoming events, please contact us.

Opening in Fall 2014 La Jarra Ranch mallen@lajarra.com www.lajarra.com 956-245-0021 956-232-1448

Raymondville Tourism Guide

• page 17

A Look at Willacy County

In 1911 a parcel of land from the Nueces River southward would be carved from Hidalgo and Cameron Counties. The vast new county would be named for state senator John G. Willacy.

A decade later it would be trimmed to its present boundaries.

Even so, the smaller Willacy County still had its riches. That wealth was not necessarily the bounty that sank off South Padre Island during fierce storms of 1554 leaving Spanish galleons at the bottom of the Gulf of Mexico. The treasures since the beginning are the land, its people, and the environment that have been cultured the past century.

From ranchlands to coastal lands, Willacy County offers s omething for nature lovers of all ages. Birds, grasses, trees, butterflies, dragonflies and a diversity of nature’s gifts await those who come to Raymondville and Willacy County.

Creating awareness, appreciating, maintaining, and preserving our county’s natural treasures has become an extremely important effort of the City, Chamber and County and other local organizations and individuals.

Since Willacy County is in the migratory corridor to hundreds of species of migrating birds each year, it has become the mission of several county entities to call attention to these treasures and to let nature lovers everywhere know about our secret.

Picture taken David Pike, 52 yrs.

Numerous times over the last few years, Willacy County has gone out on specific birding and butterfly tours to “get up close and personal” with such species as the Ferruginous Pygmy owl, the Pixie butterfly and the Buff-Bellied hummingbird. These opportunities that allow access to private ranches in and

Picture taken Matthew Schalk, 14 yrs.

Picture taken Matthew Schalk, 14 yrs.

Raymondville Tourism Guide

• page 18

adjacent to Willacy County are made available to guests during the annual Wild in Willacy Boot Fest “nature and heritage” festival. Exotic animals such as zebras, ostrich, wildebeests, nilgai and addax are among some of the out of the ordinary animals that Wild in Willacy guests get to enjoy. Ranch owners such as Dr. Phillip and Mrs. Karen Hunke (El Tecolote Ranch) and Danny Butler (La Chata Ranch) have been supporters of the festival since it was created in 1999 by the Willacy County Nature Partners. The popular Salt Lakes tours have also continued to part of the festival since it began.

In addition to the nature tours, Wild in Willacy highlights heritage through cook offs including pan de campo, beans and different types of meats. The teams are comprised of volunteers that come together to compete for the best “taste of Willacy”. Musical entertainment, a children’s program targeting environmental education and hands on demonstrations, a traded show and an abundance of food and game booths all take part in the production of a popular event for Willacy County.

The “boot fest” part of the festival comes from the legacy of Abraham Rios, a local boot maker who crafted many a pair of boots for celebrities including President Reagan, President Truman, Prince Phillip and several movie stars in their earlier years. This boot making tradition is still available through the works of at least three local families, including Abraham Rios’s nephew, Armando Rios Duarte of “Armando’s Boots”. This heritage portion of the festival comes from the presence of this craftsmanship in Willacy County and being a community surrounded by ranches that still work cattle and cowboys that help continue this dying tradition.

Whether guests enjoy nature, nature photography, listening to music, shopping or just coming out to support a community event, Wild in Willacy has something for everyone.

Picture taken Matthew Schalk, 14 yrs.

Picture taken Laura T. Gonzalez 27 yrs.

Raymondville & Surrounding Area Business Accommodations America’s Best Value Inn & Suites 450 South Expressway 77 Raymondville, Texas 78580 (956) 689-5900 1-888-315-BEST (2378) www.bestvalueinn.com Antler’s Inn 1800 South Expressway 77 Raymondville, Texas 78580 (956) 689-5531 Texas Inn 118 N. Expressway 77 Raymondville, Texas 78580 (956) 689-4141 www.txinn.com La Quinta Inn & Suites 128 N. Expressway 77 Raymondville, Texas 78580 (956) 689-4000 (956) 689-4178 (fax) 1-800-LQSLEEP http://6304.lq.com Hilltop Gardens 100 Lee Lane Lyford, TX 78569 (956) 262-2176 www.hilltopgarden.com Holiday Inn Express 125 S Expressway 77 Raymondville, Tx 78580 (956)699-3111 Air Conditioning & Electrical Repairs Circle R Electric & Air Conditioning 405 S. 6th Street Raymondville, Texas 78580 (956) 245-5138

Reyna Network P O Box 1052 Mission, TX 78572 (956)583-7431

(956)746-9294 www.texas-diesel.com

Appliance Sales & Repair

Lara’s Bakery 150 N 5th St Raymondville, Tx 78580 (956) 689-5571

Bakery

Butler’s Appliance Sales & Service 13859 Butler Road Raymondville, Texas 78580 (956) 746-1386 Janos Superstores 350 W. Hidalgo Raymondville, Texas 78580 (956) 689-3309 www.janosrgv.com Ken’s Furniture 123 E. Hidalgo Raymondville, Texas 78580 (956) 689-3620 Museum & Art Galleries Willacy County Art League 501 S. 7th Street Raymondville, TX 78580 (956) 347-3864 www.willacycoartleague.com Raymondville Historical Museum 427 S 7th Street Raymondville, Texas 78580 (956) 689-3732 (956) 689-3850 Automotive Dealers All Star Motors LCC 380 FM 3168 Raymondville, Texas 78580 (956) 689-2277 FAX (956) 689-2270 www.allstarmotorsraymondville.net

Villareal Electric & Air Conditioning 229 E. Hidalgo Raymondville, Texas 78580 (956) 689-2607

Rodriquez Ford Mercury NW Corner Highway 77 & Spur 56 Raymondville, Texas 78580 (956) 689-2452 www.rodriguezfordmerc.com

Consulting Firms

Attorneys

Blanchard & Associates International, LLC P.O. Box 5555 Brownsville, Texas 78523 (956) 371-3311

Law Office of William R Wepfer 518 E Harrison Ave. Harlingen, TX 78550 (956) 423-1021

Buffo & Berkman, C.P.A. 324 E. Hidalgo Raymondville, Texas 78580 (956) 689-2479 Business Services Company 7512 Business 77 Lyford, TX 78569 (956) 607-9925

Triple “C” Delight 229 N 7th St. Raymondville, Tx 78580 (956)689-3672 Bank and Loan Companies Ag Credit of South Texas 137 S. 8th Street Raymondville, TX 78580 (956) 689-5502 www.agcreditofsouthtexas.com Atlas Credit 957 E. Hidalgo Suites C Raymondville, Texas 78580 (956) 689-5915 First Community Bank 729 E Hidalgo Raymondville, Tx 78580 (956)689-3999 Sun Loan Co & Tax Service 100 US Hwy 77 Suite K Raymondville, Texas 78580 (956)232-2057 Valley Federal Credit Union 700 FM 3168 Suite 10 Raymondville, Tx 78580 (956)689-1860 ext.232 www.vfcu.net Rio Grande Valley Credit Union 2910 E Grimes Harlingen, TX 78550 (956)423-5792 www.hatcu.coop Wells Fargo 400 W. Hidalgo Raymondville, Texas 78580 956-689-5511 www.wellsfargo.com Barber Shops and Beauty Salons

Law Office of Annette C Hinojosa, PC 155 N 3rd St Raymondville, TX 78580 (956)690-0239

Fantastic Cuts 269 N 7th St Raymondville, Tx 78580 (956)689-2140

Auto Parts and Service Stations

Sue and Dau’s Hairport 834 West Hidalgo Raymondville, Texas 78580 (956) 689-3035

Danny’s Automotive & Diesel Repair 953 S 7th Raymondville, TX 78580

Raymondville Tourism Guide

• page 20

Medical Services (Clinics ,Physicians & Physical Therapy) Dr. Pete Mungia 780 S 7th St. Raymondville, TX 78580 (956)689-2153 Family Optical 240 East Hidalgo Raymondville, Texas 78580 (956) 689-5977 Family Physicians 165 S. 6th Raymondville, Texas 78580 (956) 689-5506 Harlingen Family Dentistry 1214 Dixieland Rd. Suite #4 Harlingen, Texas 78552 (956) 428-5322 Raymondville Family Medical Clinic 637 E. Hidalgo Raymondville, TX 78580 (956) 689-2296 Raymondville Pediatrics 640 S Expressway 77 Suite 2 Raymondville, TX 78580 (956) 689-4120 Spence Clinic 336 South 8th Raymondville, Texas 78580 (956) 689-2456 Su Clinica Familiar 131 Farm Road 3168 Raymondville, Texas 78580 (956) 689-2196 Impact Physical Therapy N. Hwy 77, Ste. N Raymondville, Texas 78580 (956) 689-9195 Rio Grande Valley Mobile X-Rays 1421 Sioux Rd Alamo, Tx 78516 (888)783-9779 www.rgvxrays.com Sunshine Family Dentistry 957 E Hidalgo Ste. B-2 Raymondville, TX 78580 (956)699-3999 Willacy County EMS, Inc 693 S 7th St Raymondville, TX 78580 (956)689-5456 Engineers Flores Engineers 305 W Hidalgo

Raymondville & Surrounding Area Business Raymondville, Tx 78580 (956)699-3003 Guzman & Munoz Engineering Surveying, Inc 2020 E Expressway 83 Mercedes, Texas 78570 (956)565-4637 Naismith Engineering INC P O Box 3099 Corpus Christi, TX 78463 (361)814-9900 Contractors, Lumber Retail & Flooring Alamo Lumber Company 1595 S 7th Raymondville, Texas 78580 (956) 689-2167 www.doitbest.com M.N.T. Farm & Ranch Fencing & Corrals Rt. 2 Box 820 Raymondville, Texas 78580 (956) 689-4013 / (956) 778-1465

Willacy County Sheriffs Dept.

1371 Industrial Dr. Raymondville, Texas 78580 (956)689-5576 Child Day Care Center Playville Day Care Center 610 W Hidalgo Raymondville, Texas 78580 Ph. (956) 689-1185 Kids Club 640 S Expressway77 Suite 3 Raymondville, Texas 78580 (956)690-4011 Dining & Catering Andrea’s Café 207 N 7th St. Raymondville, TX 78580 (956)398-7245 Casa Blanca Rt.2 Box 12 Raymondville, Texas 78580 (956) 689-3230

J W Turner Construction 14215 Mary Jane Ln. Tomball, Texas 77377 (800)483-9333

C & M Market 152 S 10th St Raymondville, Texas 78580 (956)689-1329

Peacock General Contractors, Inc P O Box 530098 Harlingen, TX 78553 (956)423-6733

Dairy Queen 534 East Hidalgo Raymondville, Texas 78580 (956) 689-5121

Computer Technicians Computer Consulting Services 442 W Hidalgo B Raymondville, Texas 78580 (956) 642-6179 Rio Internet Marketing ,LLC 1327 E Washington Ave. Suite 240 Harlingen, Texas 78550 (956) 202-5673 Correctional Facilities Correction Corporation of America 1695 Buffalo Drive Raymondville, Texas 78580 (956) 689-4900 Willacy County Correction Center 1800 Industrial Drive Raymondville, Texas 78580 (956) 689-9218 Willacy County Regional Detention Center 1601 Buffalo Drive Raymondville, Texas 78580 (956) 689-5099

Raymondville, Texas 78580 (956)689-3700 Watson’s City Drug 192 South 7th St Raymondville, Texas 78580 (956)689-2161 Dixie Fits (956) 778-3055 dixiefits@hotmail.com Nieto’s Bling & More (956)746-6217 Brittany’s Boutique Gold & Silver Connection 329 W Hidalgo Raymondville, TX 78580 (956)689-3131 E & E Kettle Corn 12772 Emma Ross Rd Raymondville, Tx 78580 (956) 746-9151 (956)746-7223 Wal-Mart Super Center 14091 FM 490 Raymondville, Texas 78580 (956) 689-6571 www.walmart.com

Entertainment Ms. South Texas Senior Pageant 14464 FM 1018 Lyford, TX 78569 (956)357-1636 www.msouthtexassr.com Event Centers American Legion 211 West Hidalgo Raymondville, Texas 78580 (956) 966-0556 L.E. Franks Tourist Center South 7th Street Raymondville, Texas 78580 (956) 689-1864 Raymondville Historical Center 427 S. 7th Street Raymondville, TX 78580 (956) 689-3850 Veteran’s Foreign War Post Hall 1 Mile S. Hwy 77 Raymondville, TX 78580 (956) 689-2562

Silpada Designs P O Box 3081 South Padre Island, TX 78597 (956)227-5377

La Quinta- Conference Room 128 N Expressway 77 Raymondville, Texas 78580 (956) 689-4000 1-800-LQSLEEP http://6304.lq.com

Printing/ Embroidery

Farms and Ranches

Deleons 928 N 7th St Raymondville, Texas 78580 (956)689-3503

Envy Designs 544 S. 7th Street Raymondville, TX 78580 (956) 689-3434

H. Yturria Cattle Co. Box 1208 Raymondville, Texas 78580 (956) 542-4212

Little Ceasar’s 704 E Hidalgo Raymondville, Texas 78580 (956)690-4134

Chuey’s Custom Sports 160 E Stenger San Benito, TX 78586 (956)399-5685

McDonald’s 1105 Highway 186 Raymondville, TX 78580 (956) 689-5546

Expressway Printing 20/20 E Expressway 83 Suite 4 Mercedes, TX 7857 (956)825-9829 www.xprpcm.com

Grace Heritage Ranch 27539 Old Alice Rd Lyford, Tx 78569 (956)230-6902 www.GraceHeritageRanch.com

Pizza Hut 501 E. Hidalgo Raymondville, TX 78580 (956) 689-5564 Papa Scott’s 640 S Expressway 77 Suite 3 Raymondville, Texas 78580 (956)699-3333 Boutiques & Specialty Shopping Laura’s Floral Designs 334 W Hidalgo

C & V Farms 22990 Palomar San Perlita, TX 78590 (956)248-5513

RGV Cartoon Maps (a.k.a. a Diamond Printing) 718 E Crockett Harlingen, TX 78550 (956)536-8465

El Canelo Ranch P O Box 487 Raymondville, TX 78580 (956)689-5042 monica@elcaneloranch.com

Employment Agencies

The Mary B Ranch 10 Miles N Expressway 77 Raymondville, Texas 78580 (956) 689-6223

Workforce Solutions 700 FM 3168 Raymondville, Texas 78580 (956) 689-3412

Raymondville Tourism Guide

• page 21

Magnolia Farms 18528 Rains County Rd

Raymondville & Surrounding Area Business Raymondville, Tx 78580 (956)330-8318 Studebaker Farms 10687 FM 1425 Raymondville, Texas 78580 (956)330-4971 Farm and Ranch Supply and Equipment Gulf Compress- Delta Division 14256 Rains County Rd Raymondville, Texas 78580 (956) 689-2728 Neuhaus Implement Co. 945 FM 3168 Raymondville, Texas 78580 (956) 689-2481 Willacy Co-Op 14319 Rains County Rd. Raymondville, Texas 78580 (956) 689-2813

P O Box 1066 Raymondville, Tx 78580 (956)571-7491

192 South 7th Raymondville, Texas 78580 (956) 689-2161

Fishing Guide

Funeral Homes

Mayfield Charters 957 E Hidalgo Ave Raymondville, TX 78580 (956)642-7111

Duddlesten Funeral Home 604 W. Hidalgo Raymondville, Texas 78580 (956) 689-2151

Fitness

Good Shepherd Funeral Home 1157 W Hidalgo Ave Raymondville, Texas 78580 (956)689-0600 Goodshepherd1157@aol.com

Impact Physical Therapy N. Hwy 77, Ste. N Raymondville, Texas 78580 (956) 689-9195

RGV Module Haulers

Watson’s City Drug

A

◦

Government Offices and Organizations Better Business Bureau P.O. Box 69 Weslaco, Texas 78596 (956) 968-3678

Jano’s Superstores 350 W. Hidalgo Raymondville, Texas 78580 (956) 689-3039 www.janosrgv.com

Flower and Gift Shops Laura’s Floral Designs 334 W Hidalgo Raymondville, Texas 78580 (956)689-3700

Raymondville Sports Foundation P.O. Box 1027 Raymondville, Texas 78580 (956)746-1169 www.rtxsf.com

Furniture -Retail

Villacana Fitness Martial Arts USA Korean Tae Kwon Do Raymondville, Texas 78580 (956) 746-6716

Willamar Gin 24282 FM 490 Raymondville, Texas 78580 (956) 248-5731

Raymondville Municipal Golf Course 13839 Emma Ross Road Raymondville, Texas 78580 (956) 690-4068

City Of Lyford 13550 Main Ave Lyford, TX 78569 (956)347-3512 City of Raymondville 142 S. 7th Street Raymondville, TX 78580 (956) 689-2443

Ken’s Furniture 123 E. Hidalgo Raymondville, Texas 78580 (956) 689-3620

United States Post Office 705 E. Hidalgo Raymondville, Texas 78580

Sports/Golfing

◦

◦

re you thinking of starting a business but don’t know where to begin? Are you looking to expand your existing business? There’s free assistance in Willacy County to help you!

FREE & Confidential One-to-One Business Counseling Near You. Business training is also available!

Visit www.utpa.edu/sbdc for more information.

CALL (956)665-7535 CA for an appointment with a business advisor today!

UTPA SBDC | 1407 E FREDDY GONZALEZ DR, SUITE 1.200 | EDINBURG, TX 78539 | phone 956.665.7535 | fax 956.665.7561

Raymondville Tourism Guide

• page 22

Raymondville & Surrounding Area Business (956) 689-2636

(956)689-2183

Rio Grande Valley Partnership 322 S Missouri Weslaco TX 78599 (956) 968-3141

Willacy County Tax Office 192 N 3rd St. Room 202 Raymondville, TX 78580 (956)689-3621

Veterans Foreign War Post 1/4 Mile S Highway 77 Raymondville, Texas 78580 (956) 689-2562

American Legion Post #390 211 W Hidalgo Ave Raymondville, TX 78580 (956) 746-9824

Veterans Service & Civil Defense Office 190 N. 3rd Raymondville, Texas 78580 (956)689-2014

American Legion Auxiliary Unit 390 211 W Hidalgo Raymondville, TX 78580 (956) 746-6892

Willacy County Judge 576 Main Street Raymondville, TX 78580 (956) 689-3393 Willacy County Navigation District 400 W. Hidalgo # 200 Raymondville, Texas 78580 (956) 689-3332 Willacy County Clerk 546 W. Hidalgo Raymondville, Texas 78580 (956) 689-2710 Willacy County District Attorney 546 W Hidalgo Ave 2nd Floor Raymondville, TX 78580 (956)689-2164 Willacy County Municipal Judge 142 S 7th St Raymondville, TX 78580 (956)689-6449

USDA-NRCS 255 FM 3168 Suite 2 Raymondville, TX 78580 (956)689- 2542 www.tx.nrcs.usda.gov Willacy County Extension Office 170 N 3rd St. Raymondville, TX 78580 (956)689-2412 www.willacy.agrilife.org Willacy Soil & Water Conservation District 255 FM RD 3168, Suite 2 Raymondville, TX 78580 (956)689-2542 Ext. 3 Texas State Soil & Water Conservation Board 1824-A West Jefferson Harlingen, TX 78550 (956)421-5841 Sales/Rentals

City of Raymondville Mayor 142 S 7th St Raymondville, TX 78580 (956) 689-2443

Rental World 1014 W Tyler Ave Harlingen, TX 78550 (956)364-1014

Texas Dept. Of Public Safety 13868 Business 77 Raymondville, TX 78580

Social Services

Benchmark Family Services 1544 W Dave Ave. McAllen, TX 78501 (956)683-9035 www.benchmarkfamilyservice.org Cameron & Willacy Community Projects, Inc. 1144 Professional Dr. Brownsville, TX 78520 (956)544-6411 CASA Of Cameron & Willacy Counties, Inc. 647 E Saint Charles St. Brownsville, TX 78520 (956)546-6545 Harding Foundation Box 130 Raymondville, Texas 78580 (956) 689-2706 HPWCC 693 S 7th St Raymondville, Tx 78580 (956)490-0980 MHP Salud (956)532-2285 www.mhpsalud.org

A & A De Leon Grocery & Tortilla Factory 928 N. 7th St. Raymondville, Texas 78580 (956) 689-2391

American Cancer Society

H e a d q u a r t e r s

www.mktplace.com

Texas Dept. Of Assistive & Rehab 3305 Expressway 83 Harlingen, TX 78550 (956)389-8950

Grocery Stores

H omebuyers Market Place Realty

5413 S. McColl Rd. Edinburg, TX 78539 (956)682-8329 www.cancer.org

Mark Brown Broker 956.642.7111

Mark A. Brown Agency Inc. 956.689.3600 office 956.689.3633 fax

Dolores Ñieto Tommy Rains, Jr. Realtor Realtor 956.571-2252 956.330.2169

956.689.3600 office 956.689.3633 fax 957 E. Hidlago Ave., Ste D Raymondville, TX 78580

mprealty@prontonet.net

957 E. Hidalgo Ave., Ste. A Raymondville, TX 78580 www.statefarm.com

Like a good neighborhood, State Farm is there.®

Raymondville Tourism Guide

• page 23

H.E.B. 405 W. Hidalgo Raymondville, Texas 78580 (956) 689-6556 www.heb.com Wal-Mart Super Center 14091 FM 490 Raymondville, Texas 78580 (956) 689-6571 www.walmart.com Rudy’s Meat Market 588 N 10th St Raymondville, TX 78580 (956)689-2186 Home Health Agencies & Suppliers Eldercare Home Health & Hospice 1835 S Sam Houston Blvd SN Benito, TX 78586 (956)399-9400 Nurses That Care-AMS 5411 N McColl McAllen, TX 78505 (956)682-0800 Safehaven Hospice 2390 Central Blvd Suite G Brownsville, TX 78520 (956)504-2780 Salazar’s Health Idea, PA 615 N Main Street La Feria, TX 78559 (210)369-4667 Gentiva Hospice 2501 Paredes Line Rd Ste B-9 Brownsville, TX 78526 (956) 504-5298 www.gentiva.com Primos DME 901 E Redbud Ste.8A McAllen, Tx 78504 (956)994-1837

Raymondville & Surrounding Area Business Smart Start (956)280-3418 Housing Cisneros Estates P.O. Box 40 Raymondville, Texas 78580 (956) 689-5119 G & R Investment 11390 Fern County Rd Raymondville, TX 78580 (956)357-2061 Willacy County Community & Development Corp.

576 Main St Raymondville, TX 78580 (956)689-3393 Community Dev. Corp. of Brownsville 901 E Levee St. Brownsville, TX 78520 (956)541-4955 Willacy County Housing Authority 4024 WCHA Raymondville, TX 78580 (956)689-2733 Insurance Agency Donaho Insurance

204 S. 7th Raymondville, Texas 78580 (956) 689-5573 Fambrough Realty & Insurance 219 W. Hidalgo Ave. Raymondville, Texas 78580 (956) 689-3312 Secure Insurance 255 FM 3168 Suite 3 Raymondville, Texas 78580 (956) 689-0105 Mark Brown-State Farm Insurance 957 E. Hidalgo Suite A Raymondville, Texas 78580 (956) 689-6463 Law Enforcement and Services Raymondville Fire Department 547 W. Hidalgo Raymondville, TX 78580 (956) 689-2332 Raymondville Police Department 523 W. Hidalgo Raymondville, TX 78580 (956) 689-2441 Willacy County EMS 693 S. 7th Street Raymondville, Texas 78580 (956) 689-5456

Willacy County Sheriff’s Department 1371 Industrial Drive Raymondville, TX 78580 (956) 689-5576 Laundromat/Cleaners Roger’s Laundromat 910 E Hidalgo Ave Raymondville, TX 78580 (956)689-3606 Manufacturers,Suppliers & Distributors Armando’s Boot Co. 169 North 7th St. Raymondville, Texas 78580 (956) 689-3521 Cisneros Packing Company 169 S. 5th Street Raymondville, Texas 78580 (956) 689-2448 L & F Distributors 3502 Spur 54 Harlingen, Texas 78552 (956) 423-2256 F & R Packing P O Box 354 Raymondville, Tx 78580 (956)689-2765

Newspapers Raymondville Chronicle News 192 N. 4th St. Raymondville, Texas 78580 (956) 689-2421 Valley Morning Star 1310 S Commerce Street Harlingen, Texas 78550 (956) 430-6200 www.valleystar.com Valley Business Report 105 A East Jackson Harlingen, Texas 78550 (956) 310-8953 www.valleybusinessreport.com Assisted Living/Nursing Homes La Estancia Apartments 3711 South US 77 Sebastian, TX 78594 (956)347-2233 Retama Manor Nursing Home 1700 S. Expwy 77 Raymondville, Texas 78580 (956) 689-2126 La Jarra Estates 700 FM 3168 Suites#7 Raymondville, TX 78580 (956)689-1860 ext.229

Features & Amenities · Service & Quality assured · Complimentary Breakfast · Pool · Pets Allowed · Fitness Center · Meeting Room · High Speed Internet Breakfast Made Easy · Free Breakfast · Complimentary full breakfast · choice of breads · cereal · fruit · other hot items

Located behind WhatABurger 118 N Expressway 77, Raymondville, TX, 78580 US

Phone: (956) 689-4141 Fax: (956) 689-0469

Hertz Rent a Car

118 N Expressway 77 Ste A, Raymondville, TX 78580

(956) 689-4141

Hertz Rent a Car, located at Texas Inn in Raymondville , has quality rental cars at great rates for hourly, daily, weekly or monthly rental.

Raymondville Tourism Guide • page 24

Raymondville & Surrounding Area Business Pharmacies

(956)778-3255

Raymondville Family Pharmacy 180 North 7th Street Raymondville, Texas 78580 (956) 689-6337 www.raymondvillepharmacy.com

Dynamic Realty Investments, LLC P O Box 6309 Brownsville,TX 78521 (956)838-0627 Fambrough Realty & Insurance 219 W. Hidalgo Ave. Raymondville, Texas 78580 (956) 689-3312

Watson’s City Drug 192 South 7th Raymondville, Texas 78580 (956) 689-2161

Harding Properties 385 W Hidalgo Ave Raymondville, Tx 78580 (956(689-2675

Wal-Mart Super Center 14091 FM 490 Raymondville, Texas 78580 (956) 689-6571 www.walmart.com Photography/Studios Gene Smith Studio Box 562 Raymondville, Texas 78580 (956) 689-2621 www.genesmithstudio@granderiver.net Liliana Hinojosa Photography 772 S 6th St Raymondville, TX 78580 (956)642-7081 www.lilianahinojosa.com

Koppel Family Properties, Ltd 1305 N Stuart Place Rd. Harlingen, Tx 78550 (956)412-2019 Market Place Realty 957 E. Hidalgo Suite D Raymondville, Texas 78580 (956) 689-2819 www.mktprealty.com

Tommy Rains 957 E Hidalgo Raymondville, TX 78580 (956)330-2169

Reber Memorial Library 194 N. 4th Raymondville, Texas 78580 (956) 689-2930 www.reber.memorial@co.willacy.tx.us

RV Parksl

Zion Termite & Pest Control 628 W Riggs Raymondville, TX 78580 (956)789-1790

Bayview RV Park 527 Bayshore Dr. Port Mansfield, TX 78598 (956) 944-2313 www.bayviewrv.com

Realtors CHRE 48 Los Amigos Harlingen,TX 78552

G E PL A C

O RA

Owners: Mark & Bonnie Brown Manager: Diana V. Reyes stplace@prontonet.net

SELF STORAGE - Access 7 Days a Week -

Various Sizes in

Climate Controlled & Regular Storage

the boutique at

Annie’s RV Park 14293 Emma Ross Rd Raymondville, TX 78580 (956)428-1182

Pest Control

ST

www.watsoncitydrug.com

Vic’s Rental & Property Management 324 White St Port Mansfield, Tx 78598 (956)244-6868 www.vicrents.com

Public Library

t l ren sel We L’s & plies p U A su U-H king pac

• FULL SERVICE PHARMACY • MEDICAL EQUIPMENT • UPS SERVICE • HOUSEWARES • GIFTS • TOYS

E Coming So To Lyfordon !

• Fenced • Lighted • Surveillence Cameras • Electric Access

Watson’s

Come visit our boutique, located conveniently inside of Watson’s City Drug.

We have Grazie’s sandals, Genuine Consuela totes, trendy clothing for all sizes, a wide variety of jewelry, handbags, and scarves to accessorize any outfit. Gift cards available.

Shop local.

Hours Monday-Friday 8:30-7:30, Saturday 8:30-2:00, Sunday 8:30-12:00 the boutique at Watson’s, 192 S. 7th Street, Raymondville, Texas, 78580

(956)689-2161

957 E. Hidalgo Ave., Ste. D • Raymondville, TX • 956-689-3600 Raymondville Tourism Guide

• page 25

County Line R.V.Park P.O Box 58 Sebastian, Texas 78594 (956) 347-3762

L.C. Smith Elementary 700 North 1st St Raymondville Texas 78580 (956) 689-8172

Gateway R.V. Park Box 309 Raymondville, Texas 78580 (956) 689-6658 www.gatewayrvtexas.com

Myra Green Middle School 419 FM 3168 Raymondville, Texas 78580 (956) 689-8171

Golf View RV Park 13838 Emma Ross Rd Raymondville, TX 78580 (956)690-4008 R & R R.V. Park 818 Mansfield Dr. Port Mansfield, Texas 78598 (956) 944-2253 www.randrrvpark.net The Park at Port Mansfield 1300 Mansfield Dr. Port Mansfield, Texas 78598 (956)746-1530 www.parkatportmansfield.com Schools IRRA Inc. Raymondville Center 1205 Soth 7th Street Raymondville, Texas 78580 (956) 689-3300 www.ignitepublicschools.org Lasara ISD P O Box 57 Lasara, TX 78561 (956)642-3271 www.lasaraisd.net Lyford ISD 8204 Simon Gomez Lyford, Tx 78569 (956) 347-3900 www.lyfordcisd.net Lyford Elementary 13094 High School Circle Lyford. Tx 78569 956-347-3911

Raymondville High School 601 East FM 3168 Raymondville, Texas 78580 (956)689-2471 San Perlita ISD P.O. Box 37 San Perlita, TX 78590 (956) 248-5250 www.spisd.org

Magic Valley Electric Cooperative Drawer 267 Mercedes, Texas 78570 1-866-225-5683 Texas Gas Service P.O Box 531827 Harlingen, Texas 78580 (956) 444-3900

Elodia Sosa (956)232-1740 Felicita Gutierrez (956)689-3861 John F Gonzales (956)689-3393 Johnny I Pineda S. Padre Island, Tx. 78597 Mary Casillas (956)689-3237 Mayor Orlando Correa (956)689-2443 Zeke Cavazos (956)746-1281

Carlos Cabrera (956) 403-8592

Storage Place Self-Storage 957 E. Hidalgo Suite D Raymondville, Texas 78580 (956) 689-3600 www.raymondvillestorageplace.com

(956)689-9620

Loan & Tax Service Sun Loan Co. & Tax Service 100 US HWY77 Suite K Raymondville, TX 78580 (956) 232-2057

Home-Owned and Operated Since 1948

Telephone Companies JERRY BRACKHANN

VTX1 881 E Hidalgo Ave Raymondville, TX 78580 (800) 446-2031 www.vtx1.net

Owner

Sierra Title Company 565 W. Hidalgo Raymondville, Texas 78580 956-689-6301

Website:mktrealty.com

dolores (dee) Ñieto Sales Associate

Towing Service

Lyford High School 8201 High School Circle Lyford. Tx 78569 956-347-3909

Utilities

123 E. Hidalgo P.O. Box 851 Raymondville, TX 78580

Market Place Realty

Title Companies

Rudy’s Towing Service 759 W Hidalgo Raymondville, TX 78580 (956)689-2504

Pittman Elementary 258 E. Harris St. Raymondville Texas 78580 (956) 689-8173

EON Climates & Renewables North America Inc. 812 San Antonio St. Suite 201 Austin, TX 78701 (512)482-4036

Personal

Storage

Lyford Middle School 12820 4th/Glenn Lofton Lyford. Tx 78569 956-347-3910

Raymondville ISD One Bearkart Blvd Raymondville, TX 78580 (956) 689-2471

www.raymondville.tx.us

957 E. Hildalgo Ave, Ste D Raymondville, TX 78550 Office: (956) 689-3600 Cell: (956) 571-2252

Fax: (956) 689-3633 Email: Dee-_mrealty@vtxb.com

Allied Waste 9402 W. Expressway 83 Harlingen, Texas 78552 (956) 423-7316 www.republicservices.com AEP-American Electric & Power (877)373-4858 City of Raymondville 142 S. 7th Street Raymondville, TX 78580 (956) 689-2443

h. yturria land & cattle

company

P.O. BOX 1208 • 1155 E. VAN BUREN ST • BROWNSVILLE, TEXAS 78522 • (956) 542-4212

Raymondville Tourism Guide

• page 26

Grace Heritage Ranch

Same great credit union, with a new name!

Homestead Tours

• Great Loan Rates • Local Decisions • Community Involvement

Rio Grande Valley Credit Union - Home

Mary & Brian Schalk Owners

Rio Grande Valley Credit Union - Home Saturday

Public Tours

www.GraceHeritageRanch.com

Private Group Tours (by appointment)

www.facebook.com/VisitGHR

956-42

RGVCUNew ATM located at the gas station What's Products & Services

956-423-5792Membership

at Wal-Mart in Raymondville

FIND A

Zip C

RGVCU ONLINE & BILL PAY Formerly known as HATCU Logon ID

What's New

Products & Services

(956) 423-5792

Membership

Calculators

Educatio

Enjoy the peaceful surroundings, animal interaction, www.rgvcu.coop Forgot Security Code and hands-on opportunities of our 100 acre homestead Sign up for If RGVCU Online & Bill Pay you live, work, worship or attend school in Lyford or in beautiful Willacy County in the Rio Grande Valley!

RGVCU ONLINE & BILL PRaymondville, AY you are now eligible for membership with RGVCU. So, git yer boots ‘n jeans on and c’mon over to GHR MasterCard Application Logon ID

Just 30 minutes N.E. of Harlingen

27539 Old Alice Rd. Santa Monica, TX 78569 (Old Alice Rd is also 1650 and 1651) 1-855-447-8687 (recorded info and prices)

Scan for web access

Loan Application

Forgot Security Code Sign up for RGVCU Online & Bill Pay

Mortgage

Repos MasterCard Application 2910 E. Grimes - Harlingen 4321 W. Expressway 83- Harlingen 345 N. Wilson Rd. San Benito Check This Credit UnionReorder is federally insured by the National Credit Union Administration Loan Application Forms & Applications Mortgage We focus on People: Our Residents, their Lives, their Health, their Families!

Investment We focus on People: Our Residents, their Lives, their Health, their Families!

SAVINGS Repos Savings IM Covered Club Check Reorder Forms & Applications

PROGRAMS & SERVICES W e pr ov id e Sk ille d N ur s ing Serv ic es t hat lud e: P ROGRAMS & Sinc ERVICES

 S t ro k e R e h a b i l i t a t i o n

We  Pprovide a i n M a n aSkilled g e me n t Nursing Services  I n f u si o nthat T h einclude: ra p y

       

Checking

CERTIFICA

0.05% - 0.

0.05% - 0.

0.05% - 0.

Investment IM Covered

W o u n d Rehabilitation C a re Stroke R e s p i t e C a re

Pain Management Enteral Therapy Infusion Therapy Rehab Se r v i ce :

 P h y s Care i ca l T h e ra p y Wound

 O c c u p a t i o n T h e ra p y

Respite Care

 Physical Therapy  Occupation Therapy

Harlingen,

Harlingen, Texas

Enteral Therapy Rehab Service:

4321 W. Expr

2910 E. Grimes

 S p e e ch T h e r a p y

Fax: (956) 423-3105

Fax: (956) 4

(956) 423-5792

1700 South Expressway 77 ● Raymondville, TX 78580 Phone: (956) 689-2126 ● Fax: (956) 689-5131

WE

https://www.rgvcu.coop/[3/13/2014 1:38:13 PM]

2910 E. Grimes

 Speech Therapy

4321 W. Expressway 83

Harlingen, Texas

Harlingen, Texas

Fax: (956) 423-3105

Fax: (956) 412-4220

(956) 423-5792

1700 South Expressway 77 ● Raymondville, TX 78580 https://www.rgvcu.coop/[3/13/2014 1:38:13 PM] Phone: (956) 689-2126 ● Fax: (956) 689-5131 Raymondville Tourism Guide

• page 27

WEB@HATCU.COOP

F

CITY OF RAYMONDVILLE

ORLANDO CORREA MAYOR

142 South 7th Street Raymondville, TX 78580

Willacy County Housing Authority 4024 WCHA 1½ S. Expressway 77, Raymondville, TX 78580 956-689-2733 • Fax: 956-689-3799

• Affordable Housing • 1 BR, 2 BR, 3 BR Up to 4 BR

(956) 689-2443 Off

“In Your Greatest Time Of Need” Goodshepherd1157@aol.com

• Section 8 • Assisted Living Also Available

“CARING, COMPASSIONATE, AND HONEST!”

• Full Funeral Services • Creamations • Pre-Arranged Services • Monuments.

FAMILY OWNED & OPERATED Owners: Hilario “Lalo” Fonseca & Michael Wetegrove.

Financed by United States Department of (USDA) Rural Development

956.689.0600

1157 W. Hidalgo Ave. Raymondville, TX 78580 Fax: (956) 689-0800

1695 S. Buffalo Dr. Raymondville, Texas (956) 689-4900 Fax (956) 689-4001

Raymondville Tourism Guide

• page 28

RESTAURANTS IN

Raymondville & Willacy County

ANDREA’S CAFÉ 207 NORTH SEVENTH RAYMONDVILLE, TEXAS 78580 956-398-7245 ANTOJITOS MEXICANOS 357 WEST HIDALGO RAYMONDVILLE, TEXAS 78580 956-689-4410 (MEXICAN CUISINE) BOOT COMPANY 205 EAST HIDALGO RAYMONDVILLE, TEXAS 78580 956-689-3850 (AMERICAN FOOD)

LION’S CAFÉ 11947 JOHNSON STREET LASARA, TEXAS 78561 956-642-3219

STARS DRIVE IN 465 EAST HIDALGO RAYMONDVILLE, TEXAS 78580 956-689-5497

LITTLE CAESAR’S PIZZA 704 EAST HIDALGO RAYMONDVILLE, TEXAS 78580 956-690-4134

SUBWAY 123 NORTH EXPRESSWAY 77 RAYMONDVILLE, TEXAS 78580 956-689-4949

MCDONALD’S 1105 TEXAS HIGHWAY 186 RAYMONDVILLE, TEXAS 78580 956-689-5546

TAQUERIA “EL ANGEL” 246 SOUTH SEVENTH RAYMONDVILLE, TEXAS 956-689-2910 (CARRY OUT MEXICAN FOOD)

CASA BLANCA 1695 SOUTH SEVENTH STREET 956-689-3230 (AMERICAN FOOD)

MI PUEBLITO 383 EAST HIDALGO AVENUE RAYMONDVILLE, TEXAS 78580 956-688-3435

C & M MARKET 152 SOUTH TENTH RAYMONDVILLE, TEXAS 78580 956-689-1329

PIZZA HUT 501 EAST HIDALGO RAYMONDVILLE, TEXAS 78580 956-689-5564

CHAYA’S MEXICAN RESTAURANT 956 EAST HIDALGO RAYMONDVILLE, TEXAS 78580 956-689-3040 (MEXICAN FOOD)

PAPPA SCOTT’S 640 SOUTH EXPRESSWAY 77 STE.3 RAYMONDVILLE, TEXAS 78580 (DELI AND YOGURT) 956-699-3333

DAIRY QUEEN 534 EAST HIDALGO RAYMONDVILLE, TEXAS 78580 956-689-5121

PESCADERIA Y RESTAURANT 246 SOUTH SEVENTH RAYMONDVILLE, TEXAS 78580 956-689-2910 (SEAFOOD)

LARA’S BAKERY 150 NORTH 5TH STREET RAYMONDVILLE, TEXAS 78580 956-689-5571

TRIPLE C DELIGHTS BAKERY 229 NORTH SEVENTH STREET RAYMONDVILLE, TEXAS 78580 956-689-3672 TUCKER’S BBQ 9260 NORTH BUSINESS 77 RAYMONDVILLE, TEXAS 78580 956-347-5600 WHATABURGER 1007 E HIDALGO RAYMONDVILLE, TEXAS 956-689-5578

LAS MANANITAS 310 WEST HIDALGO RAYMONDVILLE, TEXAS 78580 956-689-5058 (MEXICAN RESTAURANT) Raymondville Tourism Guide

• page 29

PORT MANSFIELD SKIPPERS GALLEY 606 LAGUNA PORT MANSFIELD, TEXAS 956-944-3306 SWEET GREGORY “Ps” SMOKEHOUSE 1171 SOUTH PORT DRIVE PORT MANSFIELD, TEXAS 956-944-2440 PELECAN’S COVE BAR & GRILL 1001 EAST PORT DRIVE PORT MANSFIELD, TEXAS 956-944-2848 WINDJAMMERS RESTAURANT & LOUNGE 1088 EAST PORT DRIVE PORT MANSFIELD, TEXAS 956-944-2555

Web Address: Macahcado.net E-mail: CisnerosPacking@yahoo.com

CISNEROS

PACKING COMPANY, Inc. 169 South 5th, Raymondville, Texas 78580 Phone: (956) 689-2448 Fax: (956) 689-2449

THE MOST POPULAR DISH OF NORTHERN MEXICO CUISINE

PROCESSED AND DISTRIBUTED BY THE RENOWNED CUCHI-CUCHI PRODUUCTS US inspected and Passed by Department of Agriculture. EST.1244

Secure Insurance

Agency

Butch Harding, LUTCF • Ice Cream Cones • Waffle Cones • Sundaes • Smoothies • Milk Shakes • Floats

• Fruit Cups • Fruit Platters • Sandwiches • Nachos • Aguas Frescas • Fresh Juices

Ph. (956) 689-0105 Fx. (956) 689-1366 Toll Free 888-325-5133

• Frito Pies • Shrimp Cocktails • Sandwich Platters • Hot Cheetos w/ Cheese

PO Box 102 - 255 FM 3168, Ste. C Raymondville, TX 78580

Home Auto Liability Life

152 SOUTH 10TH STREET • RAYMONDVILLE, TX • (956) 689-1329 Raymondville Tourism Guide

• page 30

Tournament: July 24th-27th Registration begins July 24th @ the Chamber of Commerce Pavilion.

2013 SPONSORS:

V.T.C.I. Vaughn Construction Co. W. C. N. D. Y-Knot Bayhouse Rentals Southern Marine Shallow Sport Boats Harbor End Condominiums

Kinney Bonded Warehouse Budweiser Bassler Energy Services Genco Energy Service Break-A-Way Cruises Angler’s Edge Boggus Ford

2014

Bay and offshore divisions for men, women, & juniors. Piggy perch division for the kids. Live Band Friday & Saturday Night.

We invite you to come participate in the 40th Annual Port Mansfield Fishing Tournament!

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

February – Annual “Chili Cook-Off” held at Pelican’s Cove Bar & Grill, call 956-944-2848 or email joj1353@ yahoo.com for info.

Port Mansfield Volunteer Fire Dept. Rummage Sale & Dinner, date to be announced, call 944-2575 or email harbor@granderiver.net for info., supports P.M.V.F.D. March – Annual Beach clean-up “Port Mansfield Trash Terminators”, Call PMCOC at 956-944-2354 or email pmft@granderiver.net for more info.

March – “Easter Egg Hunt” at the PM Baptist Church, call 944-2354 or email pmft@granderiver.net for more info.

April – Public Fishing Tournaments, call 956-944-2354 or email pmft@granderiver.net for more info. On dates to be announced.

April - Annual Fish & Shrimp Cook-Off please go to www. Portmansfieldchamber.org or pmft@granderiver. net May – Public Fishing Tournament, Willacy County Young Farmers, go to WCYF.org for more info.

4th of July Annual Fireworks Display, supports the P.M.V.F.D. at dusk every year at the Fred Stone County Pier in PM. Call 956-944-2354 or email pmft@granderiver.net for more info.

July – The Annuel Port Mansfield Fishing Tournament , call 956-944-2354 or email pmft@granderiver.net or www.portmansfieldchamber.org for more info.

October – Halloween “Spook-House” & party for the “kids”, held at the chamber pavilion, call 956-944-2354 or email pmft@granderiver.net for more info.

October – Annual “Costume Contest” held at Pelican’s Cove Bar & Grill call 956-944-2848 or email joj1353@ yahoo.com for more info.

December– Annual Christmas party for the “kids” with Santa held at the chamber pavilion, please call 956944-2354 or email pmft@granderiver.net for more info.

Winter Texan Activities: December-April Covered Dish/Bingo held at the chamber pavilion, call 956-944-2354 or email pmft@ granderiver.net for more info.

December-April Ladies exercise class held at the PM Baptist Church 8:00a.m. Mon, Wed & Fri call 956-9442805 for more info.

For more info, call 956.944.2354 or visit www.portmansfieldchamber.orgRegistration Raymondville Tourism Guide

• page 31

texas undiscovered coast Port Mansfiel

Port Mansfield is a port and fishing community on the Laguna Madre opposite Port Mansfield Channel in northeastern Willacy County. It was formerly an isolated and obscure fish camp known as Red Fish Landing. The port was opened in 1950 to establish a harbor between Corpus Christi and Brownsville. It was named for United States Representative Joseph J. Mansfield, who introduced the Mansfield Bill authorizing the extension of the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway from Corpus Christi to the Rio Grande. In 1957, when the first pass was cut through Padre Island, the little settlement had a few residences, some port buildings, a motel and store, and a few fishing cabins. The final Port Mansfield Channel was completed across Padre Island in 1962. The ensuing tidal exchange between the Gulf of Mexico and the Laguna Madre has produced an abundant population of fish to make it a sportsman’s paradise.

pigs, turkeys, and quail are some of the frequent visitors to Port Mansfield.

Port Mansfield and the Lower Rio Grande Valley boasts some 487 different species of birds. This diverse variety makes ours one of the premiere birding spots in the United States. Many of these birds can be seen up close and very personal in and around the Port. Additional opportunities to view these beautiful birds in their natural setting is available via water transportation.

Salt Lake

The Lower Rio Grande Valley has several major refuges and sanctuaries such as the Laguna Atascosa Wildlife Refuge, Santa Ana Wildlife Refuge, Port Mansfield has been voted by “Sport Fishing Magazine” as one of the Sabal Palms Sanctuary, Bentsen State Park and the newly opened El Sal top 10 sport fishing locations.

Del Rey and La Sal Vieja.

As of the 2010 census, Port Mansfield was home to 500 full & party Quiet, Un-crowded, and Affordable -time residents. The population often swells considerably higher than that as visitors flock to the coast to enjoy the excellent fishing, warm Port Mansfield is perhaps the last frontier along the Texas coast where winters, with peace and solitude still preserved in a busy world. the beauty of the semi-tropical shores are still accessible without the crowds and higher prices of the highly developed areas to the south Some of the attractions found at Port Mansfield today include: and to the north. Port Mansfield is only about nine miles by boat from the Gulf of Mexico and Padre Island. The Mansfield Jetties separate this popular barrier island and boats can beach at either side. On days when Boating and Fishing the waves at the jetties are relatively smooth, it is possible to travel down the Gulf side of the beach to areas less populated by visitors. Surf fishing, Port Mansfield offers excellent fishing in a number of venues. The shell hunting, camping, beachcombing and even treasure hunting await Laguna Madre bay awaits just out of the Port Mansfield harbor. The Laguna Madre is home to abundant redfish, speckled and sand trout, those who make the trip to the island. By car, the beach is only accessible flounder, and other species. Its shallow waters make it easy to fish by at Port Isabel and Corpus Christi. small boat, wading or casting a line from the shore. A public fishing pier is also available at the county park.

By boat, the Gulf of Mexico is only nine miles away; and once through the Port Mansfield channel, you’ll be able to go after the big ones. Red snapper, tarpon, sailfish, marlin, kingfish, mackerel, ling, pompano, and other catches await. Port Mansfield has been described by sports editors as one of the “10 best fishing areas in the country”. Numerous fishing guides and charters are based in Port Mansfield.

Launching ramps, marine supplies, docking facilities, and both wet and dry storage are available. The shallow protected waters of the bay are also ideal for windsurfing, kayaking, and other water sports enthusiasts.

Port Mansfield, located in the Lower Rio Grande Valley of Texas, has the most pristine Marine and Wildlife environment on the Texas coast.

Being bordered by thick, virtually untouched, lightly populated brushland, Port Mansfield and the close surrounding area offers an unmatched variety of wildlife for your viewing and enjoyment. Deer, javelina, wild

Fishing the Gulf & Laguna Madre

Owners Pat & Marilyn Petty

• Full Hookups • Tent Area • Apt. Rental • Showers • Laundromat • Recreation Hall • Planned Activities (Winter)

818 Mansfield Dr., Unit 189 • Port Mansfield, Texas 78598 956-944-253 Fax 956-944-2704 E-Mail: randr@granderiver.net www.randrrpark.net

Raymondville Tourism Guide

• page 32

FISHING CHARTERS HUNTING CHARTERS

956-944-2182 www.mysunsethousemotel.com

• BEST LODGING • BEST FISHING • BEST HUNTING

The Willacy

County Navigation District

plays an important role in the everyday needs of the Port Mansfield area. The PMPUD manages the utilities for the Port Mansfield area. The WCND overseas the Harbor office, land leases and boat stall leases. An airport is available for small aircraft for guests wanting to fly in to visit or fish in the bay. The WCND helps promote birding in the area where many species of shore birds can be seen.

Raymondville Tourism Guide

• page 33

Ronald Mills • Port Mansfield PUD

Gary & Sybil Simmons

Specializing in resort rentals for fishermen and thier families

SYBIL SIMMONS WWW.HARBORBAIT.COM E-MAIL: HARBOR@GRANDERIVER.NET

123 West Harbor Port Mansfield, TX 78598 Bus: (956) 944-2575

Table Shrimp • Fish • Ice • Beer • Groceries • Snacks • Tackle • Boat Slips • Port Mansfield’s Mall www.harborbait.com

123 W. Harbor • Port Mansfield, Tx Tel: (956) 944-2367 • Fax: (956) 944-2627 E-mail: harbor@granderiver.net

“If we don’t have it, we’ll get it!”

The Valleys Hidden Gem!

Liquor, wine & party supplies

• Homemade Pizzas & Dough • Wings • Subs • Homemade Breads • Breakfast Lunch & Dinner • Seafood

956-944-3007

119 W. Harbor, Suite A Port Mansfield, Tx. Karri Simmons, Owner

skippersgalley@yahoo.com

606 Laguna • Port Mansfield,Tx. Raymondville Tourism Guide

956.944.2178

• page 34

�  ­

€‚ƒ „ …  †

 � � �

• Asthma • School Physicals • X-Rays • Allergy Testing • Laboratory A

Roberto M. Rey, M.D.

�  ­

Board Certified Pediatrician

Sandy Hernandez, P.A.-C Board Certified P.A.

Daniel Gomez, P.A.-C Robert Villarreal, P.A.-C

Board Certified P.A. Board Certified P.A.

Monday - Friday 8:43 am - 12:30 pm • 2:00 - 6:30 pm

€‚ƒ „ …  †

 Â? Â?Â? Â? ­ € Â?   ‚ Â?Â

 � �� � ƒ „ … † ‡ ˆ

Saturday 8:43 am - 12:30 pm

 � � �

No Appointment Necessary • New Patients Welcome!

• Asthma • School Physicals • X-Rays • Allergy Testing • Laboratory Anemia • Medicaid and Private Insurance Accepted Raymondville Tourism Guide

• Ice Cream Cones

• Fruit Cups

• page 35

• Frito Pies

Connect Now! We’ve Got 1.800.446.2031

You Covered!

Restrictions may apply. Eligibility is based on service address.

Connect Now! 1.800.446.2031

Restrictions may apply. Eligibility is based on service address.

Broadband Broadband starting starting at at

$30

$30