I absolutely love the cover story in this week’s newspaper. It took me right back to my own days of having pen pals--friends I met at summer camp, on family vacations, or during little adventures throughout the years. For a long time, those letters were our lifeline. We’d trade stories, teenage dramas, and dreams for the future, all tucked into envelopes with stamps we hoped wouldn’t fall off in transit.
Somewhere along the way, many of those connections faded, as childhood friendships often do. Every now and then, I catch myself wondering where they are today. What paths did they follow? What joys have they celebrated? What challenges have shaped who they’ve become? I’ll admit, I’ve spent more time than I care to confess typing a few of their names into a search bar, hoping for even a clue.
Thanks to the digital age (and the great detective known as social media), I’ve managed to find a couple of those long-lost friends. But let’s be honest; catching up through Messenger just doesn’t hold the same magic as waiting for a handwritten letter. There was something special about that anticipation…knowing a reply might take weeks…or even months.
Maybe that’s why I’m still such a fan of putting pen to paper. Who knows? This story might inspire me to find a new pen pal!
Thank You
WINTER TEXAN
70 Years of Pen Palship
In the 4th grade, Maureen Keppy was assigned pen pals from around the world--England, Germany, Japan.
Seventy years later, the correspondence with her Japanese counterpart continues, and their friendship has flourished.
The concept of pen pals dates back to the 1930s, sparking the creation of the Student Letter Exchange in 1936, a society dedicated to connecting individuals through letter writing.
By the 1950s, teachers were assigning pen pals to students as a tool to practice penmanship and expand cultural horizons. That is how Keppy met Chihoko Nakamura.
Keppy still recalls the 15-letter street Nakamura lived on when they first became pen pals: “N-i-s-h-i-h-a-n-a-b-a-t-a-k-e!”
The two write to each other once a month, which--after 70 years--amounts to 1,680 letters total, 840 per pen pal. Hundreds of letters document their lives.
Story and Photos by Eryn Reddell Wingert
That doesn’t even include all of the gifts the two have sent over the decades.
On Keppy’s 50th wedding anniversary, Nakamura sent 50 origami swans.
“Now, every letter either has a very fancy bookmark or brand new first-edition stamps,” says Keppy.
In their letters--written in English--the women share details of their lives, from simple things like a bike ride to milestones--including when they each gave birth to a child on the same day.
“My favorite thing [to read] is what she does on a daily basis,” says Keppy. The seasons, what book she is reading, life in Japan. At the end of most of her letters-written in beautiful penmanship-Nakamura writes, “Please overlook my many grammatical mistakes.”
Nakamura’s penmanship is
beautiful, and as Keppy points out--with good reason, “Think about how many years she’s been doing this.”
Their friendship spans 70 years, but they have only met in person twice.
Maureen Keppy is available to share her 70-year pen-pal experience. Contact the office of Siesta Village at 956-969-3740 to connect.
Publisher
Kristi Collier kristi@welcomehomergv.com
Content Creator/Photographer
Eryn Reddell Wingert eryn@welcomehomergv.com
Accounting
Angela Blanchard angela@welcomehomergv.com
Administration
Amie Gray agray@welcomehomergv.com
Colette Brookins calendar@welcomehomergv.com
Event Manager
Anne Marie Martin events@welcomehomergv.com
The first time was in 2003 in the airport in Seattle. “We gave each other a big hug. There were lots of tears,” Keppy recalls. It was a brief exchange; they hugged, cried, and said good-bye.
The second meeting was in 2010 in Japan. Both visits-one for 20 minutes, the other for a days-long vacation-were planned without a single phone call, text, or email-only through written letters.
219 W Nolana McAllen, TX 78504
956.687.5115 www.welcomehomergv.com
Editor Chris Ardis news@welcomehomergv.com
Graphic Design
AIM Media Texas, LLC
Activity Coordinator
Fran Adams fran@welcomehomergv.com
Business Development
Chris Leadbetter chris@welcomehomergv.com
Travel Division
Kristy Meyer travel@welcomehomergv.com
Sarah Denzer sarah@welcomehomergv.com
Stella Riester stella@welcomehomergv.com
Half a world apart, Keppy knows the sweetest details about her friend. “She loves flowers. She wears kimonos on formal days. And she always wears a hat outside. She loves for me to send her books and magazines, candy, and chocolate,” says Keppy. “She loves chocolate!”
In Japan, Nakamura even gave a presentation on Keppy as part of an English language exam. A 70-year friendship developed and sustained through pen and paper. •
Calendar Submissions!
For more information on submitting your events and activities, please e-mail: calendar@welcomehomergv.com
The deadline for submision is Fridays at 5:00 p.m.
Weekly E-Blasts
Kristi’s e-Blasts are sent weekly October-March to our subscribers. Find out what’s happening across the Valley. These e-Blasts include helpful links and fliers for Featured Events.
Find on Youtube Channel “Welcome Home Rio Grande Valley”
Help Food Bank of the RGV Keep EveryFamilyFed This Season
Special to Welcome Home Winter Texan
This holiday season, there are so many meaningful ways you can support families across the Rio Grande Valley. Your involvement makes a real difference, and there are several easy ways to take action.
Create Your Own Fundraiser
You can start a personal fundraiser by visiting our Every Family Fed donation page at foodbankrgv.com and selecting “Create a Fundraiser.” Set a goal that inspires you, then share your page with friends, family, and park/ resort neighbors and on social media. Every dollar you raise helps put food on the table for families who need it.
Host a Food Drive
Food drives are a powerful way to bring people together for good. You can collect much-needed staples for families throughout the Valley. With kids home during Christmas break, kid-friendly foods like cereal, oatmeal, and peanut butter are in especially high demand.
Volunteer Your Time
Volunteers are the heart of the Food Bank of the Rio Grande Valley. Sorting food, preparing boxes, assisting at distributions, and supporting special events all help ensure families receive the assistance they depend on. Your time makes an immediate impact.
Spread the Word
Share our mission with your circle. Invite others to learn about hunger in our region and encourage them to join you in supporting Every Family Fed. A simple conversation or social media post has the power to inspire action.
Together, we can make sure our neighbors have the food they need to get through the season. Thank you for helping us keep Every Family Fed across the Rio Grande Valley. •
by Eryn Reddell Wingert
and
Sarah Denzer, Tour Manager
Hello Travel Friends
Join Us for Our Sip-Shop-Sail Girls’ Trip
Dear Travel Friends,
Sometimes, I look in the mirror, and the person looking back at me looks a little older and a little different than she does in my head. The life I have now is wonderful and full of joy, but sometimes I miss those spontaneous adventure days of the past.
In early 2024, I took a very last-minute, unplanned, adventurous trip with one of my best friends. Where did we go? Sydney, Australia! I usually plan this type of huge trip out for months to get every detail correct, but this time it was five days’ notice, and we were off! We flew halfway across the world to see Taylor Swift in concert, and let me tell you, it was worth every penny! But the most fun was getting four days to hang with my bestie and just do girl stuff. We ate our share of girl dinners at cute places, shopped in darling little boutiques, and stayed up way too late chatting and solving all the world’s problems. Those memories are going to stick with me forever. I realized that, sometimes, you just need a girls’ trip! Don’t worry. I’m not suggesting you cram into a 17-hour flight in an economy seat and go all the way to Australia. In fact, you can just hop on a bus here in the Valley.
We have the perfect girls’ trip planned out for you already. This trip is round-trip in our fantastic charter bus--from the Valley up to Galveston We’ll get there with plenty of time to have a fun shopping afternoon on the Strand and enjoy some fine dining together, as
well. This dinner will be top notch and make you feel fancy. After a great night’s sleep in a spacious room on Galveston Island and a bus tour of the city, we’ll get you to the cruise port. From here, we’re boarding Royal Caribbean’s Mariner of the Seas for a fun, four-night cruise to Cozumel. Along the way, we have all kinds of fun girlie surprises planned for you, too. This trip is April 8-13, 2026, and there are only a few spots left. This is sure to be one for the books and one you don’t want to miss! This is just a one-bus trip, so space is limited. For more info and pricing for this Sip-Shop-Sail Girls’ Trip, check out our website at welcomehomergv.com or give us a call at 956-687-5115. Ask for Travel Kristy or for me! Grab your girlfriends and your passport and get some groceries for your husband. Take it from me; this girls’ trip will bring out the version of you that you see in your head…and she can’t wait to have fun!
•
Sarah
Girls Cruise Girls Cruise
April 8 - April 13, 2026 April 8 - April 13, 2026
Round trip transportation from the Rio Grande Valley
transportation from the Rio Grande Valley
Sweet treats on the bus
Sweet treats on the bus
1nt pre-night Galveston with Breakfast
pre-night Galveston with Breakfast
Shopping on the Strand
Shopping on the Strand
A fine dining dinner experience in Galveston
A fine dining dinner experience in Galveston
Galveston Historical Tour
Galveston Historical Tour
4 night cruise on Royal Caribbean’s Mariner of the Seas
4 night cruise on Royal Caribbean’s Mariner of the Seas
Stop at Cozumel, Mexico
Stop Cozumel, Mexico
Port charges, taxes and gratuities
Port charges, taxes and gratuities
$1299.00- Interior *per person
$1299.00- Interior *per person
$1 9.00 - e n ie in o *per person
$1549.00 - Ocean View Window *per person
$1 29.00- on *per person
$1729.00- Balcony *per person
Perspectives One Small but Costly Error
by Marty Ziegler
November 28, 1979, a sightseeing tour by plane took off from New Zealand. The flight path was designed to take the plane 5,360 miles over the coastline of Ross Island and last 11 hours. The sights included McMurdo Sound, the arctic ice shelf, and the scenic northern coastline of Ross Island. The McDonnellDouglas DC-10 flight crew included three experienced pilots, two flight engineers who were also pilots, and other cabin attendants. The 237 passengers included prominent business leaders, scientists, and political leaders. The pilots practiced the flight plan for two weeks in a flight simulator. Air New Zealand Flight #901 was in the air for nearly four hours when it crashed into the slopes of Mt. Erebus, a volcano on Ross Island.
The plane was 20 miles off course. There were no survivors, and some of the bodies were never recovered or identified. How could this happen with such an experienced and capable crew?
One small error. The pilots did not see that the flight path was changed one degree off course. Each pilot and engineer had many chances to double check the flight path but never caught the one-degree error. The path was set in the plane controls, and the plane flew as
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directed. During the flight, there were opportunities to check and correct the flight path. The visibility was limited because of clouds and whiteout conditions. When it was time to turn and descend below the clouds and begin to see the coastline and arctic shelf, the plane was heading right into the volcano. Within minutes, warning alarms sounded…but it was too late. The plane was committed to the course, and the pilot could not pull up or avoid the volcano. One small error, one degree off course, led to other mistakes--other errors--and a disaster that still haunts lives.
One small error, according to the Bible, is called sin. Sin is missing the mark. Sin can be thought of as a “small” thing, but it can lead to many others. Jesus warns that small leaven (sins) of the Pharisees spread throughout and produce hypocrisy and unbelief. Any sin can grow and produce pride, hurtful gossip, and false statements to produce selfish gain. Any sin can eventually devastate a life, a family, or a community. As Christians, we celebrate Jesus and what He did for us--take the punishment for our errors and our sins that spread to others. In fact, we thank Him daily for saving us before, during, and even after the crash. He did it for me. He did it for you. We just need to let Him take over and fly the plane.
and
InFaith (infaith.org) and
with Christian Resort Ministries (crmintl.org) as chaplains at Southern Comfort and Country Sunshine RV in Weslaco. You may contact them at mziegler@infaith.org or eziegler@ infaith.org.
by MHC Thousand Trails Limited Partnership, Two North Riverside Plaza, Suite 800, Chicago, IL 60606. This advertising is being used for the purpose of soliciting sales of resort campground memberships. This document has been filed with the Department of Licensing, State of Washington as required by Washington Law. Value, quality or conditions stated and performance on promises are the responsibility of the operator, not the Department. The filing does not mean the Department has approved the merits or qualifications of any registration, advertising, or any gift or item of value as part of any promotional plan. Subject to availability. Reservations required.
The McAllen Wind Ensemble warmly invites the Rio Grande Valley community to embrace the magic of the holidays at Christmas Across America, a joyful and spirited musical celebration Friday, December 19, at 7:30 p.m. at the McAllen Performing Arts Center.
This year’s Christmas concert takes audiences on a musical journey across the United States, featuring beloved seasonal favorites, rich orchestral arrangements, and heartwarming holiday classics from coast to coast. The evening will also showcase a special guest performance by the Deborah Case Dance Academy, whose elegant and expressive choreography will bring an added layer of beauty and storytelling to this festive event.
“Holiday concerts have a unique way of uniting our community,” said Roger Olivarez, music director of the McAllen Wind Ensemble. “With Christmas Across America, and with the artistry of the Deborah Case Dance Academy joining us, we’re creating an immersive and joyful experience for families to cherish together.”
Admission to Christmas Across America is free, but guests are encouraged to reserve tickets in advance at mcallenwindensemble.org for a smooth entry. Patrons who prefer printed tickets may pick them up at the Box Office.
McAllen Wind Ensemble supporters are invited to enhance your concert experience by joining the Patron Program, which offers exclusive perks, such as reserved seating, expedited entry, and more. A $50 donation ($100 per couple) directly supports new music, local arts outreach, and future performances across the Rio Grande Valley. Become a patron at mcallenwindensemble.org/become-a-patron. •
Things I Have Learned A somewhat random and reckless look at life from a fairly old guy by
Bill Ward
We’re Younger Than We Used to Be
Today’s Wisdom: Aging is not an option, not for anyone. It is how gracefully we handle the process and how lucky we are, as the process handles us
~Cindy McDonal
My wife and I recently looked through our old wedding photos from 50 years ago. We were shocked to find a photo of her grandparents at the reception. They looked very old, maybe mid-80s. The photo was unusual in that it didn’t depict her grandfather in bib overalls-his usual attire. Then my wife pointed out that they were actually our age at that time, early 70s. Wow!
I remember them back then. They looked, acted, and were perceived as old people. They did little in the community, and when they did venture out, he couldn’t see well, so he drove and she navigated.
On my side of the family, I remember both my grandfathers as being very old when I was a kid. The word “elderly” described them well. I have now outlived them both.
Today, it seems different. Most of the people we hang out with
are in their 70s. None of them seems elderly, in the active lifestyle sense of the word. We are mostly all active, vibrant, engaged people. I am actually still playing rock ‘n’ roll. That is an image so far removed from my perception of the grandparents as to be just crazy.
What changed? Most likely…everything. They all lived a harder life than us Baby Boomers. We have had better nutrition, better medical care, and better living conditions. Maybe we also benefitted from a vision of what late life can be. We haven’t retired to just sit and wait. We have a vision of something more.
In the health-care world, we called that “compression of morbidity.” It is the idea that we live well a long way into old age before we decline rapidly and check out. In a sense, many of us are younger than our predecessors used to be; at least we are acting like it.
I understand some don’t share this good fortune. It’s not fair. But for you who do, keep the party going.
I’m just sayin’. •
Bill Ward is a retired healthcare administrator from Minnesota and a regular columnist, author, and untalented rock ‘n’ roll musician. He winters at Casa Del Sol in Donna. You can contact Bill by email at bwward@charter.net.
Santa Claus is Coming to The Tower on Nolana
Last year, a new holiday tradition began in McAllen when a 50-foot Christmas tree (on a five-footfive platform with a two-foot star on top) lit up the skies at The Tower on Nolana--on the corner of 10th Street and Nolana.
This year’s official Tree Lighting took place November 28. While the public can stop by any evening to see the magnificent tree and take pictures on the platform, The Tower on Nolana will host one more community event Saturday, December 20, from 6 – 9 p.m. That evening, Madhaus Coffee will serve up coffee and hot chocolate. Get a pack of Sweet & Tasty sugar cookies, too…while they last. Santa is flying in for the evening, so have your cameras ready for Selfies With Santa. •
Annual Audubon Society Christmas Bird Count Dates Set Novice or pro, join the count!
Special to Welcome Home Winter Texan
Valley residents, Winter Texans, visitors, birders, and those interested in birding are invited to join a team in the count areas for the annual Audubon Society Christmas Bird Count (CBC). The CBC is a one-day event, per area, within established count circles. This year’s count will be held from December 14, 2025, through January 5, 2026. Local counts are listed below, with contact information for those interested in joining a team.
• December 14 - Brownsville, karl.berg@utrgv.edu
• December 16 - Coastal Tip, naturalist@spibirding. com
• December 20 - Santa Ana National Wildlife Refuge, swmurray@outlook.com
• December 21 - Falcon Dam and State Park, idratherbebirding@gmail.com
• December 26 - Weslaco, john.yochum@tpwd. texas.gov
• December 29 - Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge, txlacbc@flanwr.org
• January 3, 2026 - Harlingen, hgtxcbc@gmail.com
• January 3, 2026 - Anzalduas-Bentsen, roy.
rodriguez@tpwd.texas.gov
Brownsville Circle includes Resaca de la Palma State Park, Palo Alto Battlefield National Historical Park, Rancho Viejo, and southeast to the Rio Grande.
Coastal Tip Circle includes Laguna Vista, Laguna Heights, Port Isabel, South Padre Island and south to the Rio Grande River.
Santa Ana National Wildlife Refuge Circle encompasses McAllen, Hidalgo, Sharyland, Pharr, San Juan and Alamo.
Weslaco Circle includes Donna, Mercedes, La Feria and south to Progresso.
Novice birdwatchers are encouraged to join a team. Extra eyes help spot birds for the experienced birders to identify, and novice birders get valuable experience in bird identification and habits.
In addition, individuals can count birds in their own yard, if it is within one of the designated areas. Contact one of the above teams to find out if your yard is within a designated area. A list of birds and information will be sent, upon request. If you have a
yard full of birds in a count area, invite a team; they may be able to visit on count day.
Check this link to see the area of a count: gis. audubon.org/christmasbirdcount.
In its 126th year, the bird count tradition dates to when officers in the newly established Audubon Society proposed to take a census of birds rather than hunt them for sport. Globally, the Audubon Society Christmas Bird Count includes destinations and countries from as far north as the Artic Bay; east from St. Jon’s and Ferryland in Newfoundland; west to Southern Guam; and from the northern most area of Alaska, south through Canada, the U.S., Mexico, South America, and down to Drake Passage in the South Atlantic Ocean.
The annual count is a citizen-science survey, where volunteer birdwatchers provide the census data. The event is conducted by the National Audubon Society, an environmental organization devoted to the conservation of birds.
For more information, visit audubon.org/ conservation/join-christmas-bird-count. •
RGV Urology Opens in Weslaco
Patients in the Mid-Valley now have greater access to specialized urologic care with the opening of RGV Urology--Weslaco, located in the Knapp Medical Plaza Building at 1330 E. 6th St., Suite 305. The clinic is led by board-certified urologist Dr. Desmond Adamu, who also serves on the medical staff at Knapp Medical Center.
RGV Urology--Weslaco provides comprehensive evaluation and treatment for a wide range of adult urologic conditions, including kidney stones, urination issues, prostate problems, urologic cancers, and erectile dysfunction. The clinic offers both traditional and minimally invasive surgical options, ensuring personalized and effective care for each patient.
Dr. Adamu completed his urology and urologic surgery training at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine and the University of Miami/ Jackson Health System, where he also completed a general surgery internship and received a Resident Teaching Award. He earned his Doctor of Medicine degree from Meharry Medical College in Nashville, Tennessee, as a Carl J. Herzog Foundation Presidential Scholar and his bachelor’s degree in chemistry from Texas Southern University in Houston.
Support at the clinic is provided by board-certified, bilingual nurse practitioners Valeria Cedillo FNP-BC and Rebecca Olivarez FNP-BC, who bring strong clinical expertise, a patient-centered approach, and a focus on patient education and preventive medicine. Together, they provide comprehensive, coordinated care to help patients achieve the best possible outcomes.
RGV Urology--Weslaco is now accepting new patients. For more information or to schedule an appointment, please call 956-238-2853. •
Dr. Esmund Adamu Valeria Cedillo, FNP-BC
Rebecca Olivarez, FNP-BC
Lambs Loom Beautiful Tapestry in a Creative Community
Special to Welcome Home Winter Texan
Hello, Friends! During this season of giving and receiving, we at The Lamb’s Loom are so blessed in so many ways.
There is our Donation Chest that overflows regularly with all the handmade items that are donated. They come in through the front door, the back door, and the mailman. Wonderfully creative and soft, these items carry “love in every stitch.” The local mission groups we serve minister to so many people who do not have heat in their homes--or who have no home at all. So even though our “winter” is definitely mild in comparison to up north, it can be a difficult time for those without adequate shelter. Over the years, as the requests for items has grown, so has your generosity, and we could not be more grateful!
And then there is our classroom, where others grow in their yarn crafts, stitch by stitch. Of course, there is all of the Sit-n-Knit time with friends every day. Old and new friends join us, and it is always a joyfilled, yarn-filled time to share a few stitches with y’all. Show ‘ n’ tell with ongoing projects and lots of help picking colors and patterns are just a few of the fun things going on.
All of these things come together to form a beautiful tapestry in a creative community. Strangers who become friends over a cup of tea and a little yarn. That is the picture of “stitch it forward” lived out. We are so very blessed that God knit us all together in such a beautiful way of serving and loving others, one stitch at a time.
We do hope you will join us this season and #stitchitforward with us. We are open Wednesday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., and we are located at 1102 W. Tamarack Ave. in McAllen. Additional parking is available in the rear via Upas Avenue. Updates and other information are available on our website at thelambsloom.com
May your knots be few, your purls be many, and your stitches continue to be blessed to share God’s love throughout the world! •
~ Prayers ‘n Purls, Friends!
Remember, Honor, Teach
Special to Welcome Home Winter Texan
REMEMBER the Fallen… HONOR those who Serve…
Saturday, December 13, at 9 a.m., Wreaths Across America will be at the Rio Grande Valley State Veterans Cemetery, 2520 Inspiration Rd. in Mission, to remember and honor our veterans through the laying of remembrance wreaths on the graves of our country’s fallen heroes and through the act of saying the name of each veteran aloud. Wreath placement will occur immediately following this ceremony. Coordinators for this event are George Rice, Lucio Gaitan, and Mary Hernandez.
There are also Wreaths Across America events in communities across the country that day. Please help Wreaths Across America lay wreaths at as many graves as possible by sponsoring a wreath. You can also sign up to volunteer at this event.
The cost for sponsoring a wreath is $17. Sponsoring a veteran’s wreath
is a personal gift of gratitude and remembrance for someone who served this country. Your sponsorship supports the yearlong mission to remember the fallen, honor those who serve, and teach the next generation the value of freedom.
With each veteran’s wreath placed by a volunteer, we ask that they “say their name” to ensure that the legacy of duty, service, and sacrifice is never forgotten.
As of November 29, the Rio Grande Valley State Veterans Cemetery was at 44.8% of its goal, with 1,973 wreaths sponsored. They are aiming for 2,427 more wreaths to be sponsored.
You can register to sponsor a wreath or to volunteer by going to this page:
For the Rio Grande Valley State Veterans Cemetery in Mission: wreathsacrossamerica.org/pages/174411
You can also go to wreathsacrossamerica.org to find other locations where the event is being held.
Thank you in advance for supporting Rio Grande Texas State Veterans Cemetery and Wreaths Across America! •
Welcome Back to YOUR Island, Winter Texans
Special to Welcome Home Winter Texan
From the heart of South Padre Island, we want to welcome all of our Winter Texans back to your Island escape! Whether it’s your first time exploring the Island or you’re a seasoned regular, memories are waiting to be made. We are so honored you’ve chosen to make the Island your home away from home during this season, and we want to give back to you.
Various Island businesses have teamed up to offer an exciting collection of exclusive coupons for locals and visitors alike. Free coupon booklets will be available for pickup at the South Padre Island Visitor Center or the South Padre Island Chamber of Commerce office.
Whether you’re craving a cozy, laid-back hideaway or a chic, beachfront oasis, South Padre Island’s dining scene is serving up irresistible promotions you won’t want to miss:
Barry’s Bistro Bar & Grill - Enjoy a free appetizer with the purchase of any entrée.
Bar Louie - Grab a friend and savor a free entrée with the purchase of another, available Monday through Friday.
Coco Beach Hotel – Snack oceanside with 50% off their delicious deluxe nachos.
Henrietta’s – Get 10% off your entire food order (a perfect excuse for comfort-food favorites).
Isla Balli – Enjoy bold flavors with 10% off your entire food order.Laguna Bob –Enjoy waterfront views along with 20% off your full food order.
Longboard Bar & Grill – Relax with Island vibes and 10% off your full food order.
Louie’s Backyard – Satisfy your sweet tooth with a free dessert when you purchase two entrées.
SPI Wine Bar – Pair your pour with savings of $5 off any food item.
The Meatball Café – Treat yourself to hearty Italian cuisine with 10% off your entire meal.The Upper Deck Hotel & Bar – Take 15% off one food item at this popular Island hangout.
Discover more of South Padre Island’s natural beauty and adventure, now with special savings. From wildlife encounters to scenic cruises, these Island experiences are offering deals and memories you won’t want to miss out on:
Osprey Cruises – Reel in adventure with $5 off Deep Sea and Bay Fishing trips, or enjoy a lively journey aboard the Pirate Ship Cruise.
Paradise Fun Rentals – Cruise the Island in style with 40% off golf cart rentals at any of their convenient locations, including Mirage I Beachwear, Mirage II Beachwear, Paradise Beachwear, and Turtle Island Beachwear.
Sea Turtle Inc. – Learn the inspiring stories of rescued sea turtles for just $10 admission for visitors 65+.
South Padre Island Birding, Nature Center & Alligator Sanctuary – Explore lush wetlands and meet rescued gators with a special $10 admission for guests 65+.
The Original Dolphin Watch – Set sail for unforgettable marine encounters with $3 off Dolphin Watches and Eco-Tours.
For more information to plan your trip, check out visitsouthpadreisland.com •
Welcome Home RGV’s Activity Director Boot Camp Kicks Off 2025-2026 Season
Special to Welcome Home Winter Texan
Welcome Home RGV’s annual Activity Director Boot Camp is officially in the books, and what a fantastic start to the season it was!
Boot Camp is designed to introduce RV park and resort activity directors to unique attractions across the Rio Grande Valley, helping them discover new experiences they can confidently book for their residents throughout the season.
The first leg of this year’s Boot Camp included a guided tour of the South Texas Ecotourism Center in Laguna Vista and downtown Port Isabel for a little shopping, lunch, and stunning views of the iconic Port Isabel Lighthouse.
The group crossed the Queen Isabella Causeway to visit the South Padre Island Birding, Nature Center & Alligator Sanctuary, taking in the beauty of the Island’s natural landscape. Boot Campers capped off the day with a delicious buffet dinner at Louie’s Backyard, a spectacular sunset over the Laguna Madre, and live music by J. Michael Lafferty.
The host hotel, Margaritaville Beach Resort South Padre Island, provided a perfect home base for the night. The next day included a two-hour workshop, followed by time to relax on the patio at the hotel’s LandShark Bar & Grill--with a live performance by Curt James.
Wrapping up this two-day adventure was a complimentary Breakaway Cruises
Dolphin Watch Tour.
Day three of the Activity Director Boot Camp uncovered two of the region’s standout gems: the art of agave at Ancestral Craft Spirits in Roma and the rich heritage of Rio Grande City through its historic trolley tour aboard Bessie III-touring downtown, Fort Ringold, and the Kelsey Bass Museum and enjoying an incredible lunch at Caro’s. It was a day filled with flavor, history, culture, and connection, an unforgettable addition to our Boot Camp itinerary.
Welcome Home RGV is already looking forward to Boot Camp 2026 and another great season of connecting the dots across the Rio Grande Valley! •
Country Club, Alamo
$250,000
Alamo Country Club, Alamo
McAllen Mobile Park, McAllen
$21,900
Spacious furnished home with split bedrooms, new roof, updated flooring, golf cart, gas stove, shutters, solar screens, and wet bar. A perfect retreat with abundant activities and community amenities.
Curt Riester, Realtor (956) 455-4195
$249,900
This 2012 unit is spacious, very well maintained and move in ready. The kitchen has beautiful maple colored wood cabinets, a food pantry, all major appliances and a gas stove top. A bonus 7x9 laundry room with a large storage closet, washer and dryer included! The exterior shed is also included! Bonnie Dominguez, MHSLSP00045160, (956) 434-6112
Green Gate Grove, Palmview
$59,000
Retama Village, Mission
Mobile Park, McAllen
$119,000
$279,000
$239,900
Beautifully updated home featuring tile floors, granite counters, split bedrooms, a spacious primary suite with dual closets, versatile guest rooms, and a large bonus room leading to an expansive outdoor patio.
Curt Riester, Realtor (956) 455-4195
Location, location. location! This RV Casita has one of the most coveted locations in the community. Lots of extras -- pergola, storage sheds, whole house 18 kw Generac generator and gutters making it better than new! All appliances convey. FHU for your RV, but you do not have to have an RV to enjoy this fabulous home. Carol Kerr Welch, TREC540183, MHSLSP00048089, (956) 900-8487
Hidden Valley Ranch, Mission
McAllen Mobile Park, McAllen
$97,000
Charming casita with full kitchen, bright living space, updated fixtures, step-in shower, washer/dryer, shaded awning, RV hookups, shed, and a lush yard with fruit trees. Move-in ready and well maintained.
Heather Escobedo, Realtor (956) 2713683
FANTASTIC 2 bed/2 bath 2014 Oak Creek 1300 sqft Home located in McAllen Mobile park. This home is FULL of upgrades including: new roof, new carport, porcelain tile flooring, Safe-Step Walk-in jetted tub/ shower combo, double panes storm windows, 8” insulated walls, new A/C, new washer/dryer, and a 5-stage reverse osmosis water system. A Must See!!! Curt Riester, TREC771832, MHSLSP00047858, (956) 455-4195
Wagon City North, Mission
$115,000
Fully furnished home with split layout, new roof and A/C, updated flooring, remodeled baths, walk-in shower, upgraded primary closet, craft/office room with mini-split, and new shutters and blinds throughout.
Curt Riester, Realtor (956) 455-4195
Have I got the PERFECT place for YOU!! This 1 bedroom/1 bathroom built in 2000 is fully furnished and 100% turn key ready and even includes plate ware, glassware, and silverware! The outdoor patio is the perfect spot to enjoy warm South Texas breezes with neighbors and friends. Curt Riester, TREC771832, MHSLSP00047858, (956) 455-4195
Hidden Valley Ranch, Mission
$339,000
Charming 1 bed/1 bath home with casita, updated flooring, step-in shower, refreshed fixtures, and blinds. Exterior boasts newer HVAC, plumbing, metal roof, solar screens, carport, and large deck.
Heather Escobedo, Realtor (956) 2713683
Llano Grande Resort, Mercedes
Beautiful 2 bed/2 bath home with open layout, tile floors, hickory cabinets, granite counters, spacious primary suite, screened porch, covered patio, solar panels, whole-house generator, and oversized garage.
$129,900
RV Porthome recently remodeled inside & out with large, fenced yard. Large 2 story storage area/ workshop with an additional 12x18 storage building for plenty of storage. Gail Gallagher, TREC797370, (816) 916-5583
Orangewood Estates, San Juan
Hidden Valley Ranch, Mission
$75,000 $179,900
Updated 2 bed/2 bath home with craft/office space, remodeled kitchen with custom cabinetry, updated baths, textured walls, new shingles, sprinkler system, entertaining deck, front porch, rear garage, and storage shed.
$115,000
Are you tired of seeing the same old thing? This 2019 2 bedroom, 2 bath mobile home will check everything off your list and more! Heather Escobedo, TREC686290, MHSLSP00048506, (956) 271-3683
Heather Escobedo, Realtor (956) 2713683
Well-built modular home with split layout, custom cabinetry, solid-surface counters, updated appliances, low-E Anderson windows, modern shades, and a guest casita with full bath and laundry.
Restful Valley Ranch, Mission
$59,900
Well-kept 2 bed/2 bath Oak Creek with bright front living, open kitchen, eat-in dining, indoor laundry, spacious primary suite with walk-in closet, new shingles, long carport, garage, and a plush landscaped yard.
Heather Escobedo, Realtor (956) 2713683
Heather Escobedo, Realtor (956) 2713683
Come check out this cozy mobile home located in Restful Valley Ranch. This 14x42, 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom home sits in the center of the 3 lots. Heather Escobedo, TREC686290, MHSLSP00048506, (956) 271-3683
This updated 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom furnished mobile is located in an active 55+ guarded gate community. Walk into this beautiful home and fall in love!
Features updated from 2021/2022 include a renovated kitchen (Painted cabinets and walls, new granite countertops, sink, faucet, disposal, dishwasher, and fridge) a fresh coat of paint in the living room, flooring, 2 mini splits, water heater, water softener, and even exterior features like the screened in porch, extended concrete, and northside fencing with gate. Heather Escobedo, TREC686290, MHSLSP00048506, (956) 271-3683
Retama Village, Mission
Hidden Valley Ranch, Mission
$259,000
$16,500 $145,000 $76,000
Beautiful 2 bed/2 bath home with custom kitchen, granite counters, island seating, bright living room, screened porch, fenced yard, spacious primary suite, walk-in shower, and garage with mini-split and storage.
Heather Escobedo, Realtor (956) 2713683
GOTTA SEE this large 1665 sqft 2 bed/2 bath home in Alamo Country Club. This home is located on the golf course witha wonderful view of the 4th hole. Primary has room for king bed and both bedrooms have new tile flooring. An updated kitchen with breakfast nook with bay windows and a screen in porch round out the upgrades. Curt Riester, TREC771832, MHSLSP00047858, (956) 455-4195
Village, Mission
Carol Kerr Welch, Broker (956) 9008487
$269,000
Llano Grande Resort, Mercedes
Searching for a gated 55+ community to settle down in? Then stop and check out this 2 bedroom 1.5 bath mobile home. Step inside and experience the bright and airy front living space and the lovely eat-in kitchen that provides the perfect combination of functionality and comfort. Heather Escobedo, TREC686290, MHSLSP00048506, (956) 271-3683
Modern cottage with open layout, quartz kitchen, custom cabinetry, luxury appliances, spacious bedrooms, stylish baths, study, walk-in closet, elegant exterior finishes, and a furnished, move-in-ready interior.
Heather Escobedo, Realtor (956) 2713683
Wagon City South, Mission
Wagon City South, Mission $225,000
Location, Location, Location! Own an RV and looking for a great place to park? Come check out this property, located in the 55+ community of Llano Grande Resort, where you own your lot! RV pad hook-ups included 30 amp and 50 amp services and a storage shed with 220vac connection. Heather Escobedo, TREC686290, MHSLSP00048506, (956) 271-3683
$89,900
$58,500 $115,000
Fully furnished home with open living and updated kitchen, split bedrooms, walk-in closet, step-in shower, screened porch, sunroom, bonus room, workshop, storage, 12×35 garage, fenced yard, and low-maintenance landscaping.
Heather Escobedo, Realtor (956) 2713683
Located in a active 55+ community of Wagon City South, this well-preserved 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom home sits on a corner lot and is fully furnished and is move-in ready. The open-concept living and dining space is perfect for entertaining guests or relaxing alone. Heather Escobedo, TREC686290, MHSLSP00048506, (956) 271-3683
Alamo Country Club, Alamo
Alamo
Retama
Retama Village, Mission
Retama Village, Mission
McAllen
Alamo Country Club, Alamo
DANCES ENTERTAINMENT &
SHOWS
Calendar of Events
Wednesday • Dec. 10, 2025
All You Can Eat Breakfast 8:00 AM Enchanted Valley Ranch Mission (956) 519-8597
Craft Show 8:00 AM Fiesta Village Mission (612) 618-9408
Craft Show 9:00 AM Split Rail RV Park Mission (715) 417-0320
Music Jam 12:30 PM Sunshine RV Resort Harlingen (956) 428-4137
Social Hour w/DJ Rick Fox 3:00 PM Siesta Retirement Village Weslaco (956) 969-3740
Happy Hour w/Route 66 3:00 PM Victoria Palms RV Resort Donna (956) 249-2266
Looking for something to do here in the Rio Grande Valley? Our calendar of events has been the go-to source for our retirees to check out the lighter side of the Valley. For more information on submitting your events and activities, please email calendar@welcomehomergv.com. The deadline for submission is Fridays at 5:00pm.
Happy Hour w/Mark Horton 3:30 PM Paradise
South RV Resort Mercedes (956) 565-2044 PTH
Karaoke w/Andrew 5:00 PM Llano Grande Resort Mercedes (956) 565-2638
MS & PLUS w/Rounds 6:30 PM Alamo Palms RV Resort Alamo (217) 737-5677 $6
Dance w/Steven May & The Southern Knights 7:00 PM Tip O Texas RV Resort Pharr (956) 7876461 $8
Thursday • Dec. 11, 2025
Wisconsinite Breakfast 8:00 AM Mi Casita Cafe
Weslaco (956) 405-3086
RGV Woodcarvers Meeting 8:00 AM Las Palmas
Community Center McAllen (816) 590-6521
Craft Show 8:00 AM Tropic Winds RV Resort Harlingen (956) 423-4020
Pancakes & Waffles 9:00 AM The Grove San Juan Prices Varies BYOTS
Country Jam 10:00 AM El Valle Del Sol Mission (717) 552-6917
Y-Cook Lunch 11:30 AM Bentsen Grove Resort Palmview (956) 585-7011
Dreamer River Tour 1:00 PM Riverside Club Mission (956) 581-1033 13+
Happy Hour w/Bruce Boudreau 3:00 PM Pine to Palm Resort Park Weslaco (956) 376-1248 PTH
Come and catch an incredible show featuring all your favorite tunes from the band ABBA, as Sharyland Pioneer High School performs the hit musical Mamma Mia! Shows will be performed December 12 and 13 at 6:30 p.m., and 2:30 p.m. matinees will be presented December 13 and 14. General Admission is $10 for adults and $5 for senior citizens and students. Tickets will be available at the door. If you have any questions, please contact the director, Charlie Brenner, via email at cbrenner@ sharylandisd.org or by phone at 956-271-1600. Singing along is encouraged! •
787-9959
Dance w/Sweetwater 7:00 PM Fiesta Village Mission (612) 618-9408 $10
Christmas Variety Show w/Curt James & Julia Lane Cooper 7:00 PM Park Place Estates RV Resort Harlingen (956) 428-4414
Y-Cook Dinner 4:30 PM Bentsen Grove Resort Palmview (956) 585-7011
CONVENTION CENTER JANUARY 20 & 21, 2026 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
MCALLEN CONVENTION CENTER JANUARY 20 & 21, 2026 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
CONVENTION CENTER BLVD (CORNER OF WARE & EXPRESSWAY 83)
CONVENTION CENTER BLVD (CORNER OF WARE & EXPRESSWAY 83)
22, 2026
Holiday Holiday SHOPPING TOUR SHOPPING TOUR
Explore McAllen's premier boutiques and locations for the season's MUST-HAVE holiday gifts! Make your way through the tour to find surprises, giveaways, and MORE!
