www.welcomehomergv.com
•••
Welcome Home WINTER TEXAN • • • December 16, 2020
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We’re just connecting the dots.
VOLUME 6 • ISSUE 10 • December 16, 2020 • • • your official connection to the rio grande valley • • •
hello FROM KRISTI
F
or a long time, I didn’t send out Christmas cards. I’m not exactly sure why; it’s just that I didn’t do it. Maybe I was too busy. Maybe the thought of gathering all the addresses was overwhelming. Or maybe it was for a completely different reason. Every year, I loved getting the mail to see everyone else’s carefully crafted cards, and we would hang them in our living room. I’m not sure how many years ago I realized that if I don’t get with the program, I may get dropped off everyone’s list! You know, my grandmother used to keep track of all that. She had a recipe box where she kept notecards on everyone she sent gifts and cards to and noted whether there was a thank you or a reciprocation. I thought to myself, if any of my friends have the same system, I’m going to be in trouble! Now I’ve found I truly enjoy the process. From receiving cards to sending them, it makes me happier than I ever thought. As I address the cards, I think of the people in my life and how fortunate I am to have them in it. And when I receive cards, I like to think that at some point during the process, they thought of us, too. I wish you the happiest of holidays, and whether you send cards or not-cheers! • We’re just connecting the dots,
Kristi
THANK YOU TO OUR
2020-2021
SEASON SPONSORS
The Bryan House was built in 1909 for U.S. politician William Jennings Bryan.
The Bryan House:
Home of the Original Winter Texan ? STORY AND PHOTOS BY ERYN REDDELL WINGERT
The house includes memorabilia from Bryan’s time in the political arena. Inviting pathways weave surrounding grounds.
through
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romoting the appeal of the Rio Grande Valley as a winter retreat may have begun with Nebraska congressman William Jennings Bryan. Ariel King, owner of The Bryan House, believes he is the first documented Winter Texan. “I can’t find another Winter Texan that came before him!” Built in 1909. The Bryan House in Mission was the winter home of the three-time presidential candidate.
the
THE BRYAN HOUSE CONTINUED ON PAGE 4 >>
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December 16, 2020 • • • Welcome
Home WINTER TEXAN • • • www.welcomehomergv.com
WINTER
TEXAN • • • OF THE • • • WEEK
Welcome Home
We Winter Texans!
®
WINTER TEXAN
your official connection to the rio grande valley
Publisher
Kristi Collier kristi@welcomehomergv.com
Administration
Amie Gray agray@welcomehomergv.com Colette Brookins colie@welcomehomergv.com
Calendar Submissions! For more information on submitting your events and activities, please email:
Event Manager
Kathy Tyler by Rocio Villalobos
Park Chef Continues Meal Service for Remaining Residents, Adds Delivery
W
hen Kathy Tyler began wintering at going to have a home-cooked meal,” Palmview’s Bentsen Grove Resort, she Tyler said. “So I feel good.” never expected she would eventually One benefit of the circumstances is that the Resort has moved to a become its cook. “I started in the kitchen the first year reservation system. I was here, and I worked part time in “It is kind of to my advantage this the office. Then the lady who was a way because I know how many people cook got sick, so that’s how I got the to cook for,” Tyler said. “Before I would say, ‘Everyone really likes meatloaf, kitchen,” she said. so I had better make While not enough for 250 professionally trained, “It’s a different world people.’ You’re just Tyler simply enjoys guessing.” cooking and used we’re living in Still, she looks to run a bar back in forward to the day her home state of right now, when everyone can Missouri. return and enjoy Bentsen Grove has so we’re just trying to fellowship among more than 800 sites, and at the height of adapt and be helpful. hundreds of their neighbors in the a typical year, Tyler Dining Hall and would serve about We just have the kitchen will be 250 people each bustling with helpers; night. to depend on the kitchen currently This year is our little family.” allows only a limited different, with fewer number of volunteers. people at the park due • Kathy Tyler • “We have our peeling to the pandemic. Tyler crew that comes usually visits home Sunday mornings, so during the summers but stayed behind this season because if we’re going to have mashed potatoes, they peel the potatoes or carrots,” Tyler her husband was ill. With that trip canceled, she could not said. “We try to get as much stuff done stay away from the kitchen and wanted ahead as we can.” to continue providing meals for the On top of the current scaledfull-time residents and the few Winter down twice-a-week meals, Tyler is Texans who were able to venture down also cooking for the holidays. For to the Valley. Not only does she cook, Thanksgiving, she prepared eight but she also has the meals delivered turkeys and is planning for a feast just straight to the residents’ doors to keep as large for Christmas. “It’s a different world we’re living in them safe. “Most are very appreciative and right now, so we’re just trying to adapt send cards to thank me and say they and be helpful,” she said. “We just are really glad I’m doing it because at have to depend on our little family.” • least one day a week, they know they’re
If you have someone you’d like to nominate for Winter Texan of the Week, please visit our website, welcomehomergv.com/wintertexanoftheweek, and complete the application. We’ll be in touch with you if your nominee is selected.
Anne Marie Martin events@welcomehomergv.com
calendar@welcomehomergv.com
The deadline for submission is Mondays at 5:00pm. •
Business Development
Stacy Madden sales@welcomehomergv.com Curt James Riester curt@welcomehomergv.com
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.” Sign up today at:
Travel Division
Kristy Meyer travel@welcomehomergv.com Stella Riester stella@welcomehomergv.com
info@welcomehomergv.com
Accounting
Follow Us
Anna Talbert accounting@welcomehomergv.com
on Social Media!
Editor
Chris Ardis news@welcomehomergv.com
Graphic Design
Welcome Home RGV has several ways to join the action on social media. Our WHRGV Facebook page is dedicated to community events and information that will appeal to people of all ages. Our Winter Texan page is more specific to our Winter Texan target market. Finally, our latest addition is our Winter Texans RGV group. Member parks and business partners can send event fliers to us at:
Jenny R Carpenter artwork@welcomehomergv.com
Social Media / Photographer Eryn Reddell-Wingert eryn@welcomehomergv.com
Promotional Division
Elizabeth Seal elizabeth@welcomehomergv.com Sarah Scott sarah@welcomehomergv.com Sabina Adames sabina@welcomehomergv.com
news@welcomehomergv.com
Perks for Partners! •
www.facebook.com @whrgv @wintertexan www.facebook.com/groups/wintertexansrgv
Activity Coordinator
Fran Adams fran@welcomehomergv.com
www.youtube.com Find on YouTube Channel “Welcome Home Rio Grande Valley”
1st Responder Coordinator Rita Huether rita@welcomehomergv.com
www.instagram.com @welcomehomergv @wintertexans
Logistics
www.twitter.com @welcomehomergv
Tom Stocker tgstocker@gmail.com
Welcome Home
®
rio grande valley
219 W. Nolana • McAllen, TX 78504
956-687-5115
Check out our website! www.welcomehomergv.com •••
© Copyright 2020 Welcome Home, Rio Grande Valley, LLC. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any electronic means without written permission from Welcome Home, Rio Grande Valley, LLC.
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•••
Welcome Home WINTER TEXAN • • • December 16, 2020
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his holiday season, the Food Bank RGV has launched a new initiative allowing you to give directly and “Adopt a Family,” sponsoring their meals for an entire month or for a full year. During the unpredictable and unprecedented health and financial crisis of COVID-19, we have seen the need for emergency food assistance surge SEVEN-fold, year over year, and the number of people accessing support from our food bank and our 275 charity partners rise to the highest levels EVER. The good news? Because of the generosity and kindness of our supporters, partners, and friends, we have been able to continue clearing our lines and closing the gap. We realize innovative solutions are the key to continuing to provide food for these most in need in this increasingly uncertain time. When you contribute to the “Adopt a Family” initiative, a registered family in the RGV is able to visit the Food Bank to pick up food to sustain them for either 30 days or 12 months. Donors are encouraged to send a note or card to be included with food that families and individuals will be receiving. (NOTE:
In order to maintain confidentiality, no direct family contact or personal information will be allowed or shared.) Adopting a family is extremely easy and cost effective because 98 cents of every dollar goes directly to feeding people. Food Bank RGV is able to leverage every dollar for a return of five meals. For a donation of just $10 a month, you can help provide a 30-day supply of food for a foodinsecure individual within a family in the RGV. A donation of $40 will help feed a family of four for an entire month. And for the greater impact of all, $480 will provide a foodinsecure family with nourishment and sustenance for one full year. The Food Bank RGV thanks you for considering a donation toward this first-of-its-kind, life-changing program. Your generous gift will provide life-sustaining support to families and those in the RGV battling food insecurity during the holidays and throughout this critical time, due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Because of you, someone is able to eat today and tomorrow. •
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December 16, 2020 • • • Welcome
>> THE BRYAN HOUSE CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1
As King shares, Mission developer John Conway reached out to Bryan and offered him a land deal if Bryan would help promote the area. King says Conway was being strategic since Bryan was known as an exceptional orator, always drawing crowds to hear him speak. “Wherever he would go, people would follow,” King says, “so it was a marketing ploy in a sense, a campaign, to let people know the Rio Grande Valley was favorable to Midwesterners as a reprieve from harsh winters.” Bryan initially purchased 160 acres, later expanding to 240 acres. He primarily farmed citrus, but he tried to grow other things, as well. According to her research, King says, Bryan attempted to grow almond trees and alfalfa, among other things. King has done extensive research on William Jennings Bryan’s history--with a particular focus on his time spent in the Valley and Mexico--since she and her husband, Frank, purchased the farmhouse in 2014. She has garnered extensive knowledge, not only about the house and acre of land, but also about the history of Mission and the original development of the region during the turn of the last century. King puts the information to use by offering tours, by appointment, of the house, which includes a sunporch, two bedrooms, living areas, a small basement, and the grounds. “There are so many features that tell the story of the Rio Grande Valley at the time, whether it’s the rock that was used, the limestone…” says King. “…In this house, there’s one fireplace that was made for coal and the other for wood. People don’t realize that coal was used back then. Lignite coal came from Laredo, right up the road.” The Kings opened the home to the public in 2016, not only to share its history, but also as an event venue, bed and breakfast, photography location, and open market and festival site. King not only put great thought into renovating the house but also into shaping the surrounding grounds as an extension of the house. As a Texas Master Naturalist, her approach was to consider how to embrace the wildness so that it makes sense, as well as to use the spaces to further educate. “I want people to come in and just relax. But I also want them to think, ‘Oh, this is what we can do in our own spaces, if we chose.” The exterior spaces include an open area, canopied by greenery perfect for tea parties and luncheons; a reception area paved with repurposed brick and lined with plants, and various nooks and
Home WINTER TEXAN • • • www.welcomehomergv.com
Tours of The Bryan House are by appointment only. Call 956-330-7497 to schedule a tour or plan an event. Visit thebryanhouse.com for more information.
Images throughout the living areas depict moments in the house’s history.
Inviting pathways weave through the surrounding grounds.
Pull a swing up to the large outdoor table.
This stairway leads to the home’s small basement.
This open area is often used for tea parties and luncheons.
Sunlight filters through the curtains in the sunporch, which marks the entry into the home.
walkways dedicated to preserving and inviting nature. Thought was even put into the parking areas. King chose gravel instead of asphalt. “Not only does asphalt make it hot, but I think of the impact of rainfall, erosion, and flooding. Gravel still allows the water to permeate the earth and get into
The house is home to various antiques.
our water table. And it creates more of a natural feel.” This picket-fence-lined historic site/nature retreat sits on a fairly busy street corner. A Texas Centennial Marker stands at the intersection marking Bryan’s experience there from 1910 to 1916. Two families, the Buckleys and Councils, owned
the house and farmed the land until 1989. The Wilson family is credited with carefully restoring and treasuring the home for years after purchasing. As one of the current stewards, King says, “I hope this house is around for another hundred years!” •
Learn more about the fascinating history of The William Jennings Bryan House.
Visit the
Welcome Home Rio Grande Valley YouTube channel.
www.welcomehomergv.com
•••
Welcome Home WINTER TEXAN • • • December 16, 2020
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December 16, 2020 • • • Welcome
Home WINTER TEXAN • • • www.welcomehomergv.com
McAllen Heritage Center Conducting Video History Project Special to Welcome Home RGV
T
he McAllen Heritage Center is pleased to announce an important and ongoing project, in an effort to represent as many facets of our city history as possible, for the museum archives. MHC hopes to incorporate subjects covering, but not limited to:
• Long-term businesses and restaurants • Banking • Neighborhoods • Schools • Physicians and other medical personnel • Church life • Downtown • Military • City government and impactful leaders • Pioneer families • Development and housing, retail • 17th, 23rd, and 10th Street history • Other topics Interviewee may bring artifacts, photos, or maps to add to the video, as that will enhance the final production. The production will become a part of the museum
archives and will be owned by the museum. We are inviting anyone interested in sharing a piece of McAllen history to contact the museum for more information. In addition, the Oral History Project application, which can be found on our website (mcallenheritagecenter.com), must be completed and submitted for review prior to scheduling your
video interview. Interviews will be conducted at the museum in a safe environment and following all established COVID-19 standards. Please call Elva M. Cerda, museum director, at 956-6812861 or via email at ecerda@ mcallenheritagecenter.com if you have any questions pertaining to the project. •
www.welcomehomergv.com
Drive-Thru Holiday Wonderland in Edinburg City leaders host inaugural Holiday in the Park
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Welcome Home WINTER TEXAN • • • December 16, 2020
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FOUNDATION PROBLEMS? HOUSE SETTLING? L
K
AS SEEN ON TV
L
K
Special to Welcome Home RGV
T
he Edinburg Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with the City of Edinburg and Edinburg EDC, presents the inaugural Holiday in the Park. This holiday season, Edinburg Municipal Park has been transformed into a drive-thru wonderland. Thousands of twinkling lights are on display from 6:00 10:00 p.m. until January 2, 2021. The festive event is FREE to the public and will be open for a total of 22 nights to enjoy approximately one mile of themed entertainment. The Holiday in the Park event will be held in place of the annual Night of Lights Parade “Seeing our community leaders come together to bring this event to our community is amazing,” said Ronnie Larralde, executive
director of the Edinburg Chamber of Commerce. “We see the importance of bringing family activities to our community during these stressful times.” Sponsors of Holiday in the Park play a key role in bringing a festive drive-thru-light-show experience for the entire family to enjoy. This year’s sponsors include Bert Ogden Auto Group, DHR Health, Melden & Hunt Inc., Texas National Bank, and The University of Texas- Rio Grande Valley. For more information on this event and sponsorship opportunities, email chamber@edinburg.com or visit Edinburg.com. •
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December 16, 2020 • • • Welcome
Home WINTER TEXAN • • • www.welcomehomergv.com
www.welcomehomergv.com
•••
Welcome Home WINTER TEXAN • • • December 16, 2020
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McAllen Convention Center Announces Traffic Plan for South Pole Illuminated Drive and Theatre Experience Special to Welcome Home RGV
D
ue to the overwhelming success of the South Pole Illuminated Drive and Theatre Experience, presented by Junior’s Supermarket, McAllen streets have been experiencing traffic interruptions, and guests waiting to enjoy this amazing holiday experience have experienced longerthan-expected delays. To mitigate this issue, event organizers worked diligently with the City of McAllen Police, Engineering, and Traffic Operations departments to develop a traffic-control plan to ensure that everyone can enjoy the event without further traffic delays. The new route will relieve congestion to the impacted businesses at Palms Crossing and surrounding areas. • General Admission (GA) ticketholders can enter southbound 29th Street and Business 83. • VIP ticketholders can enter northbound on Ware Road and Kennedy Avenue.
The new route will stack up to 800 cars without disrupting business operations in Palms Crossing and surrounding areas. In addition to the new route, the McAllen Convention Center will be selling time slots for arrivals to stagger the number of vehicles arriving at one time. Upon following driving directions, guests will reach a vehicle-pass-andticket-verification point, followed by queuing for the appropriate time slot. There are no alternate routes to the Illuminated Drive. Please respect McAllen Convention Center District neighbors and do not attempt a different route or use GPS directions. Street closures will be in effect. There is no event access from Convention Center Boulevard or along the Frontage Road. All vehicles are staged single-file, firstcome, first-served in the arrivalqueue area, then to the South Pole Illuminated Drive entry, and along the trail experience.
Upon completion of the Drive, vehicles may choose to exit north or turn right (or eastbound) to catch a holiday movie at the South Pole Auto Cinema. The South Pole Illuminated Drive is a drive-thru-ONLY experience. Enjoy from the warmth, comfort, and socially distant safety of one’s own vehicle. The event organizers kindly ask guests to be mindful of the wait time. Make sure to arrive no more than 30 minutes before OR after scheduled time. Estimated time on the South Pole Illuminated Drive is between 20-25 minutes. Expect a wait for processing and staging in the vehicle queue upon arrival and prior to the actual Drive entry. Do not exit vehicle during the South Pole Experience. Please wear a mask while interacting with staff during vehicle queueing. “We apologize for any inconvenience experienced and will continue working to improve the patron experience,” said Yajaira Flores Delgado, director, McAllen Convention Center facilities. “The McAllen Convention Center District has been a focal point for the holiday season over the last decade, and because of the many events, performance and concerts, has contributed a positive economic impact to the surrounding hotels, restaurants, and retailers in the area.” The entire Rio Grande Valley is invited to come out and enjoy the South Pole Illuminated Drive and Theatre Experience, presented by Junior’s Supermarket, with friends and family. Follow on Facebook at South Pole of Texas for updates and more information. •
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December 16, 2020 • • • Welcome
Home WINTER TEXAN • • • www.welcomehomergv.com
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Texas Master Naturalist Classes December 18 Training classes go virtual
Thank you for making us 2019 Readers’ Choice “Best Ophthalmologist”
The deadline to register for the upcoming Texas Master Naturalist classes is December 18. Special to Welcome Home RGV
T
he Rio Grande Valley’s two chapters are joining efforts to provide virtual training for classes that begin January 7. Attendees will need a computer, iPad or Android tablet. Using a smartphone is not recommended. Residents over the age of 18 and Winter Texans are welcome to join either of the chapters, regardless of residential location. The Rio Grande Valley chapter generally covers Cameron and Willacy counties; the South Texas Border chapter supports Hidalgo and Starr counties. The chapters share Cameron and Hidalgo counties. Students attend virtual, Thursdayevening classes from 6 to 9 p.m. January 7 through March 25. Field trips are another aspect of training; some will be online, while others will be in person, depending on county and departmental publichealth guidelines in effect at the scheduled times. Outdoor field trips will require appropriate masks and social distancing. Classes are taught by local university professors and other field experts, including experts from the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, and U.S. Department of Agriculture. Even with the social-distancing mandates, trainees will be able to join volunteer teams (with other chapter members) and work among the hundreds of local partners in activities at federal, state, and local wildlife parks, coastal naturalist programs, cities, schools, and other public entities, as restrictions lessen
and more opportunities are again available. Texas Master Naturalist is a unique, volunteer educational program sponsored by Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service, Texas Sea Grant Program, and the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. Both chapters share sponsors--Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Agent Tony Reisinger in San Benito and Javier De Leon, park superintendent at Estero Llano Grande State Park in Weslaco. “Texas Master Naturalist is a citizen volunteer program whose members have diverse interests and who become involved in myriad activities to learn about, work with, and help educate others about the special habitat and ecology of the Rio Grande Valley,” said Reisinger. Volunteering options for chapter members and trainees may include studying wildlife, joining cuttingedge university studies, developing public native gardens, learning about native plants and habitat, citizen science projects, bird migration and shore birds, Gulf and beach inhabitants and trends, docent positions, and nature field guides. The cost is $150 and includes textbook, fees, t-shirt, and a oneyear membership. Full, chapterspecific scholarships are available. Scholarship requests are also due by December 18. TEXAS MASTER NATURALIST CLASSES CONTINUED ON PAGE 23 >>
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THROUGH
ERYN’S LENS Exclusive to Welcome Home RGV Photos: Eryn Reddell-Wingert
Poinsettias in McAllen
P
2020
oinsettias are no wallflower this time of year! The Christmas flower has an interesting connection to the Texas border, according to the article “Poinsettias: Texas’ Mark on the Festive Flower” at cornyn.senate.gov. In 1825, the first U.S. minister to Mexico, Joel Roberts Poinsett, traveled to Mexico to renegotiate Texas’ purchase. His attempt was not successful; however, the amateur botanist sent clipped stems back to the U.S. from a plant he came upon during his trip. By the time Texas gained independence from Mexico in 1836, the poinsettia plant was widely known throughout the U.S., and according to the 2017 article, Texas is a “top producer of poinsettias.” •
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December 16, 2020 • • • Welcome
Home WINTER TEXAN • • • www.welcomehomergv.com
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Welcome Home WINTER TEXAN • • • December 16, 2020 13
A Pandemic Didn’t Stop the McAllen Holiday Parade Special to Welcome Home RGV
T
he McAllen Holiday Parade, presented by H-E-B and powered by Bert Ogden & Fiesta Dealerships, was broadcast live Saturday, December 5, at 6:00 p.m. The City of McAllen partnered with major event and parade production companies to produce The Largest Illuminated Holiday and Helium Balloon Parade in Texas in a new format for 2020—virtually! The Parade included: • Dozens of illuminated and professionally decorated floats • Giant Macy’s-style helium balloons • Celebrities and guest performances • Christmas in the Park • And many more attractions In addition, our local frontline heroes were honored on floats and with large cut-outs. We Welcome Home RGV join the City of McAllen in honoring and thanking the men and women who have worked selflessly and tirelessly to care for our community throughout the pandemic. We hope you will enjoy this Parade collage, courtesy of the City of McAllen! •
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December 16, 2020 • • • Welcome
Home WINTER TEXAN • • • www.welcomehomergv.com
I’ll be
Virtual Open House www.RVOpenHouse.info RV Lots, Casitas, RV Porthomes and Houses For Sale or Rent. Call to schedule an in-person showing!
Carol Kerr Welch, Realtor
956-900-8487
Carol@MovingWithCarol.com
Warm for
Christmas
Dave’s Old-Fashioned Sugar Cream Pie • • • • • •
1 1/2 cups sugar 4 rouned tablespoons flour A pinch of salt 2 cups milk 2-3 tablespoons melted butter Sprinkles of nutmeg
Mix sugar, flour and salt together. Pour into unbaked pie shell. Then pour 1 cup of milk and mix with fingers. Add another cup of milk or enough to fill pie and again mix. Last, add butter on top and sprinkle with a little nutmeg. 350 degrees for 35 minutes or until it bubbles up good. Don’t overbake.
THE CHARLIE DANIELS BAND
Charlie Daniels
WONDERFUL SUGAR COOKIES • • • • • • •
2 1 1 1 1 1 1
½ cups all-purpose flour ½ cups powdered sugar cup butter egg ½ tsp. vanilla tsp. baking soda tsp cream of tartar
Mix all ingredients together. Refrigerate for three hours. Divide in half and roll out one half at a time. Roll then – ¼ to 1/8 inch. Use seasonal cookie cutters. Sprinkle with granulated sugar, either white or colored sugar, if desired. Bake at 375 degrees for 7-8 minutes. This is a recipe that we’ve made at Christmas time with our son, every year for 30 years. A real family tradition! Of course you can make them at any holiday and use the appropriate cookie cutters for the occasion.
www.welcomehomergv.com
RECIPES TO ENJOY!
Mrs. Billy Graham PARADISE PUMPKIN PIE
Oven 350 degrees • • • • •
8 oz pkg cream cheese 1/4 cup sugar 1/2 tsp vanilla 1 egg 1 - 8” unbaked pie crusts
Filling: • 1 1/4 cup pumpkin • 1/2 cup sugar • 1 tsp cinnamon • 1/4 tsp ginger
• • • •
1/4 tsp nutmeg 1 cup evaporated milk 2 eggs, slightly beaten Dash salt
Combine softened cheese, sugar, vanilla. Mix well. Add eggs, mix well. Spread on crusts. Combine remaining ingredients. Mix well. Carefull pour over cream cheese mixture. Bake about 1 hour, or until done (knife comes out clean). Cool. If desired, brush with maple syrup and garnish with nuts or serve with whipped cream.
Paw Paw’s Pecan Pie • 3 eggs • 2 tsp flour • 1 cup sugar • 4 tsp white Karo syrup • 1 tsp vanilla extract • 1 cup pecans, chopped • Unbaked pie shell Preheat over to 250 degrees. Beat eggs slightly. Add flour, sugar, syrup, vanilla and nuts. Pour mixture into unbaked pie shell and bake for 1 hour or until pie is firm to touch.
Courtesy of Laura Dixon
Couric Family Recipe CHOCOLATE COCONUT KISSES
• 1 can Eagle brand condensed milk • 1 can Bakers moist coconut • 4 squares Bakes semi-sweet chocolate, melted Mix all together. Drop on greased tin. Bake at 350 degrees for 15 minutes.
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December 16, 2020 • • • Welcome
Home WINTER TEXAN • • • www.welcomehomergv.com
www.welcomehomergv.com
McAllen Public Works Opens Recycling Center, Citizen Drop-Off Facility Special to Welcome Home RGV
Welcome Home WINTER TEXAN • • • December 16, 2020 17
• • • sp tted RGV in the
The City of McAllen Public Works
Department has opened a newly construction Recycling Center and Citizen Drop-Off Facility, with services for both the public, at large, and those specifically available to McAllen residents. Hours of operation for the Facility are Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and Saturday from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. The public, at large, is welcome to stop by the Recycling Center facility to drop off recyclables, such as cardboard, paper, tin, aluminum, glass, and plastics coded #1 and #2. Additional services available to the public are free paper shredding and electronic-waste disposal. Additionally, the Recycling Center is open to the public for the purchase of crushed glass and for all mulch and compost products. Those services that are only available to McAllen residents
•••
include disposal of bulky waste, tires, metal, brush, and used motor oil and pick-up of brown, compostable lawn-and-leaf bags. In order to take advantage of those services, citizens must bring a recent utility bill and an ID. • Recycling and Citizen Drop-Off fun facts: • Over 3.6 million pounds of debris collected last fiscal year • Over 1.5 million pounds of recyclables collected last fiscal year • 67,000 bags of compost and mulch sold last year • Compost products are made 100 percent by Public Works employees • Facility built entirely by Public Works employees • Built with 75 percent reused materials
Exclusive to Welcome Home RGV Photo by Eryn Reddell Wingert
Tom Landry Mural Mission
Did you know the legendary Dallas Cowboys coach, Tom Landry, hails from Mission, Texas? This mural depicts moments from Landry’s life, including when he played for the Mission Eagles in the 1940s. The centerpiece of the mural is Coach Landry in his signature sideline attire of jacket, tie, and hat. The artwork is located at the intersection of North Conway Avenue--and Tom Landry Drive, of course. •
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December 16, 2020 • • • Welcome
Home WINTER TEXAN • • • www.welcomehomergv.com
www.welcomehomergv.com
•••
Welcome Home WINTER TEXAN • • • December 16, 2020 19
JOIN THE FUN!
with Chaplain Martin Ziegler
• There is Still Time •
What are we going to do with the
time we have left? Think about it! Are we going to waste our time, or should we warn others? 2 Timothy 4:2 tells us to “Preach the word! Be ready in season and out of season. Reprove, rebuke, exhort, with great patience and instructions.” Our Lord has told us to share the gospel news. With the time we have left, we are commanded to share our faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. When? Today, not tomorrow, because today could be our last. Growing up in the church--and later as a pastor--I heard many people say, “I can’t speak like you. I can’t talk; I don’t have the right words to share with a non-believer.” But in my experiences, when we start to speak, the Holy Spirit fills in the blanks. I would like to share a true story about my pastor, who had a friend who called him to come to his home…where he was dying. My pastor said his dying friend wanted to tell him something that he was ashamed of. His friend had a friend he worked with for 25 years, who had died a couple of years before. My pastor’s friend said he had wanted to share Jesus with the employee, but he could not get the words out, and he felt ashamed. For 25 years, he thought about sharing his faith with this man. They became close friends; he wanted to share Jesus, but he never did. Before this friend died, he said a man came to his hospital room and tried to tell him about Jesus. His friend said, “I do not believe any
WE ARE OPEN!
DECEMBER DAILY SCHEDULE (ADDITIONAL DAYS ADDED IN JANUARY)
Thursday .................. 11am - 8pm Friday ...................... 11am - 8pm Saturday................... 11am - 8pm Sunday..................... 11am - 8pm SOCIAL DISTANCE SEATING
Plenty of outside seating on our covered deck and patio. Relax outside by the Rio Grande River. Social distance seating. Face Mask required.
*Event Center Available for Park Gatherings*
LIVE MUSIC
Sundays • 1:30PM - 5:30PM Steven May & Leon Mann Limited Seating. Face Mask Required. • Only 15 couples on the dance floor at a time. • You are only allowed to dance with who you came with or someone sitting at your table. • No mingling allowed
of that religious stuff; get out of my room!” The next day, a pastor came to visit him and tried to tell him about Jesus, but again he told him to get out. The dying man told the visiting pastor, “I have a trusted friend who was a deacon at First Baptist Church, and we’ve worked together for 25 years. If any of this religious stuff was true, my friend would have told me.” Moral of this story is: To be a true friend of Jesus Christ, you must tell people why you profess Him as your Lord. Do not let your friends go into eternity without telling them about the saving grace of Jesus! 2 Timothy 2:15 Be diligent to present yourself approved to God as a workman who does not need to be ashamed, accurately handling the word of truth. How are we handling the Word of Truth? Let us give God the glory due Him! •
Curt James
Thurs., December 17th 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM Pass the Hat
BYOB * Snack Bar Available
*Social Distancing and Masks Required*
New Year dance
Texas Storm Band
TRY OUR TEXAS SIZE PORK TENDERLOIN
Thurs., December 31st 9:00 PM to midnight
CALL TODAY 956-581-4477
BYOB * Snack Bar Available * No outside food
Riverside Dreamer RIVER TOURS
Chaplain Al Dickey spreads God’s Word at River Ranch RV Resort in Rio Hondo. Chaplain Al and his wife, Shairon, are serving for their third season at River Ranch and would love to have you come and join them on Sunday at 10:00 a.m. for worship service. Chaplain Al has a unique way of sharing God’s Word.
HAPPY HOUR
*** RESERVATIONS SUGGESTED *** 1 HOUR RIVER TOUR
Thursday ...............1:00pm Friday ...................1:00pm Saturday................1:00pm
SENIORS $12
FACE MASK REQUIRED
• Covered Cushion Seating • Enclosed Windows & Heating
$ CASH ONLY $
PRICE INCLUDES TAX
No Outside Beverages / Food Allowed Passenger Minimum for Departures: 15 for 1 Hour
PRIVATE TOURS AVAILABLE
956-581-1033 • www.ontheriver.net 214 E. Chimney Rd. • Mission Riverside in-MissionTx
$14.00 per ticket
WAKE UP AND CELEBRATE!!
Your choice Pajamas & Slippers to Top Hats & Heels Cant wait to see what YOU decide??? *Social Distancing • Masks Required Temperatures taken at door* Subject to change depending on Covid guidelines
4770 N. Mayberry Road Mission, TX 78573
956-580-4545
Terry Miller • Activity Director
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December 16, 2020 • • • Welcome
Home WINTER TEXAN • • • www.welcomehomergv.com
www.welcomehomergv.com
•••
Welcome Home WINTER TEXAN • • • December 16, 2020 21
Family Friendly Fishing Guide on South Padre Island Special to Welcome Home RGV
S
outh Padre Island fishing offers experiences for every skill level. Never held a fishing pole before? No problem! You, too, can experience the thrill of reeling in “The Big One.” And don’t worry if you don’t catch anything; you can always tell the story about “the one that got away!” South Padre Island offers many options for families to experience the fun of fishing during their stay, and you don’t even need to bring any equipment. Plenty of fishing captains provide 3-4-hour bay-fishing charters perfect for families looking to get in some quality bonding time. There are similar charters available in Port Isabel, as well, just across the Queen Isabella Memorial Causeway. For the more experienced (or more adventurous), full-day excursions are available for deep-sea fishing. A number of island fishing charter companies offer private, offshore trips or shared trips. If someone in the crew tends to get a little “seasick,” there are some alternatives available. Cast off from
the Jetties at Isla Blanca Park, the Pirate’s Landing Pier in Port Isabel, or right from the beach. Equipment and bait is available at several locations throughout the Island, and most offer fishing licenses, as well. Did you know you can also cook your catch? Several restaurants on the Island will prepare your fresh catch a variety of ways. Whether you want it fried, grilled, or blackened, it doesn’t get any better than your own fresh catch! If you’re ready to put your fishing skills to the test and compete--or even if you’d rather be a spectator-South Padre Island hosts several fishing tournaments throughout the summer and fall. Check out our event calendar for upcoming tournaments. We have plenty of resources to ensure you have the best fishing experience, including our “handydandy” fishing almanac to let you know what you can expect to catch each month. Find more about fishing on South Padre Island at sopadre. com. •
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December 16, 2020 • • • Welcome
Home WINTER TEXAN • • • www.welcomehomergv.com
saving you more!
COUPON
S
RE TOURS PER
3 $ 00 3
CONNECTIO $ N00
Our weekly coupon section will help you SAVE while you are
here. Visit our website www.welcomehomergv.com for more printable coupons. •
DOLPHIN WATCH & ECO TOURS SUNSET CRUISES PORT OF BROWNSVILLE NATURE TOURS DEEP SEA FISHING - RED SNAPPER BAY FISHING
ANY ACTIVITY (Not valid with any other offers.) Expires 3/31/2021
956.761.2764 956.761.4752 www.islatours.com Find us on Facebook
Welcome Home Winter Texans!
MARKHAM’S WHEEL ALIGNING Wheel Aligning & Spring Shop
Proudly serving the Rio Grande Valley for over 70 years
Cars • Trucks • RVs • Trailers • Motor Homes
For All of your Automotive Needs!
513 W Business 83 • McAllen, TX • (956) 686-7661
www.markhamsautomotive.com
Your Safety is our business. God Bless America.
• Suspension Specialist • Complete Spring Shop - U Bolts • Brakes • Oil Changes • Radiator - Engine - Transmission • Flushes • Tuneups • Balancing • Alignments on Cars, Trucks, RVs, Trailers, Motor Homes
www.welcomehomergv.com
CAPTURES
December 2020
Photos by Ron Kowalczyk
Ron Kowalczyk reports from Green Gate Grove Resort in Palmview, “It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas!” This week, Ron shares a peek at the holiday decorations going up in his neck of the Valley. •
Welcome Home WINTER TEXAN • • • December 16, 2020 23
Wreaths Across America Day Virtual Event December 19 in Harlingen
• • • Exclusive to Welcome Home RGV
Green Gate Grove Palmview, Texas
•••
Special to Welcome Home RGV
T
he Wreaths Across America mission to Remember – Honor Teach is the foundation behind all of our efforts. Our committees, the Veterans Memorial Project Committee, and the Harlingen Veterans Advisory Board met several times with the City Of Harlingen. The Opening Ceremony December 19 will not be open to the public, but the City IT Department will provide a live feed. Our Honor Guard will place the ceremonial wreaths . The challenge was providing our tribute in a way that is consistent with safety and in compliance with local COVID-19 recommendations and mandates. Modifications (smaller and virtual with TV and print coverage) have been made. For those who ordered a wreath, there will be a designated “Will Call” area for wreath pick-up orders from 9:00am to noon. Volunteers will safely assist you. The decision to amend this year’s traditional wreathlaying was not made lightly, and we have gone to great lengths to address public safety while maintaining the best interest of families whose loved ones are interred in Harlingen-area cemeteries. These continued efforts prove our resolve and tell the story of our commitment to our fallen veterans and their families, while demonstrating our appreciation for everything they have done to preserve the freedom we all enjoy today. Donations this year have been
sparse. Please visit our website, harlingenveterans.com, for more information, or call Lenore at 956245-1276. Every $15 wreath sponsorship is a meaningful gift from a grateful American who knows what it means to serve and sacrifice for the freedoms we all enjoy. Whether the wreath is placed this December, or next, know that your gift will be honored. We are forever grateful to the good people of this great nation--and especially Harlingen-for participating in our mission to Remember - Honor - Teach. To stay informed about changes to Wreath Day events in our Harlingen community or to sponsor a wreath for a local hero, please visit harlingenveterans.com; our ID code is TXHTSA. We are looking forward to next year. A big piece missing was all of our special voulnteers, especially the youth groups. •
>> TEXAS MASTER NATURALIST CLASSES CONTINUED FROM PAGE 10
To apply for the class and to find scholarship information and payment options, visit these links: Rio Grande Valley Chapter, www. rgvctmn.org at the New Class link South Texas Border Chapter, www. stbctmn.org at the New Class link Across the state, since its inception in 1997, more than 13,000 people
have been trained in the Texas Master Naturalist program, 6.2 million hours of service have been valued at more than $150 million, 2,230 miles of trails have been developed and maintained, and 229,000 acres of native habitat in the state have been enhanced. • Rick W Bassett, M.D.
To all our patients and people who need care for their knee and hip pain. We are still here to service you! Using special precautions and ultra clean rooms, we have seen more than five hundred patients at our clinic in the past four months. With laminar air operating rooms and minimally invasive surgery, ninety percent of our patients have gone home in 12 hours, walking after a knee replacement or hip replacement. Same day surgery (outpatient). Those patients who need to stay in the hospital have a private room. Not one person has had an infection. Thank you, Rick W. Bassett, M.D.
(956) 421-2663
1601 Treasure Hills Blvd. | Harlingen, Texas 78550
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December 16, 2020 • • • Welcome
DELICIOUS RECIPES
Home WINTER TEXAN • • • www.welcomehomergv.com
ZESTY BITES
RECIPE CONNECTION
INSTANT MEALS
Looking for that amazing treat that will satisfy your craving! Each week we will offer you a variety of recipes that you can try from those who truly enjoy food and want to share! •
Entertaining at a Distance
•••
The Border Cook
•••
Shrimp Pasta Mexican Style
• • • with Sandy Olson • • •
APPETIZING DELIGHTS
Submitted by Randy Hoelscher, The Border Cook
Cheesy
things are very popular in the Midwest, probably because Wisconsin is a big dairy state. You can purchase a lot of flavored cheese spreads, but why not make your own so you can control what goes into it, the depth of flavor, and the amount of salt; plus, it’s less expensive. This spread is served with sturdy crackers for guests to make their own canapes.•
Boursin Cheese Spread • 1 cup real butter (no margarine, please) • 2 cloves of garlic, pressed • 2 packages (8 oz. each) good cream cheese, softened • ½ teaspoon dried oregano • ¼ teaspoon of EACH: dried basil, dried thyme, dried marjoram, dried dill weed, black pepper Beat the cream cheese with an electric mixer until fluffy. Stir in the remaining ingredients and place in a serving bowl. Cover with plastic and chill overnight to blend the flavors. Bring to room temperature before serving with crackers, such as the round buttery ones, woven wheats, or other unflavored sturdy types. NOTE: Increase the garlic, if you like that flavor. • Lifelong foodie, restaurant reviewer, cooking teacher, and summer Iowan, Sandy Olson spends the Winter-Texan season at Palm Shadows RV Park in Donna. This season, Sandy will be sharing recipes for appetizers you can serve your guests while entertaining and social distancing. You can contact Sandy at
This is quick, easy, and oh so good! The recipe is a simplified version of
a complex recipe for seafood with rice. That recipe calls for shrimp, octopus (My wife said no!), clams in their shells (not available when I was shopping), and firm fish fillets. I wrote this recipe to serve two. You can easily double it or more. • • • • • • • • •
2 large tomatoes – peeled and sliced 1 poblano pepper – roasted, peeled, and cut into strips 2 T. olive or corn oil 2 T. butter 1 small shallot – minced ¼ t. crushed pepper flakes (optional) 2 cloves garlic – minced ½ package (8 oz.) pasta of your choice 1 lb. shrimp – peeled and deveined
Toss cereals, pretzels, peanuts, and candy together. Using a double boiler, melt white chocolate. Toss with cereal mixture. Spread on waxed paper until cool. •
Peel the tomatoes; place them in boiling water until the skins split to peel easily. Slice the peeled tomatoes and set aside. Peel the poblano pepper. Toast it briefly over an open flame or toast it in a comal or heavy frying pan. When the pepper’s skin begins to brown, place the pepper in a plastic bag to cool; this helps loosen the skin. Peel and split the pepper, removing the seeds and webbing. Cut the pepper into thin strips and set aside. This is a good time to start the pasta. While the pasta cooks, place 2 Tbsp oil in a sauté pan and cook the shallot and pepper flakes, if used, over medium heat until the shallot starts to soften. Add the garlic and cook, but do not brown or burn it. It cooks quickly. Add the tomatoes and peppers and cook, covered, over medium heat for five minutes, stirring occasionally. Season with salt and pepper to taste. While the sauce cooks, melt the butter in a separate pan and lightly sauté the shrimp. Add the shrimp to the sauce and simmer for 3 - 4 minutes until the shrimp are done. Drain the cooked pasta and divide onto plates. Spoon the shrimp and sauce over the pasta and serve. Enjoy! Buen apetito! •
The Junior League of McAllen, Inc. envisions significantly improving the quality of life of the children and youth of our community by preserving the innocence of childhood, encouraging responsibility, and promoting a safe environment. Cookbooks can be purchased through the Junior League website at www.juniorleaguemcallen.org, as well as at Barn White and Quips & Quotes in McAllen.
Randy Hoelscher is a transplanted Texan living in the Rio Grande Valley. He enjoys being “The Border Cook,” spreading the word about Mexican and Tex-Mex cuisine on his website, TheBorderCook.com, as well as on Facebook: The Border Cook.
midwestfoodie@gmail.com.
Some Like It Hot Texas Treat •••
•••
Submitted by The Junior League of McAllen, Inc.
Makes 1 gallon
• 6 cups Rice Chex cereal • 2 cups salted peanuts • 3 cups Cheerios cereal • 1 (12 oz.) bag M&M’s • 2 cups pretzels • 1½ pounds white chocolate or almond bark
www.welcomehomergv.com
•••
Welcome Home WINTER TEXAN • • • December 16, 2020 25
bon appetit! with
Executive Chef Bettina
Tolin
Toffee Chocolate Chip Cookie Squares
I’m not sure if anyone is participating in the Holiday or Christmas Cookie Recipe
“Exchanges” anymore, but it certainly would be a safe thing to do “remotely” – and always fun to get and share new baking ideas. I have always found these little gems to be wildly popular in any group. Even the crunchy corner pieces get gobbled up! So I share this chocolatey toffee gooey secret delight with all of you. What makes these so different (and delectable) is the toffee component. Of course the chocolate and nuts don’t hurt either. Be sure to let them cool completely before attempting to cut them. Enjoy!! • • Non-stick cooking spray • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour • 2/3 cup firmly packed light brown sugar • 3/4 cup (1 ½ sticks) salted butter (very cold) • 1 large egg, slightly beaten • 2 cups (12 oz. pkg.) semi-sweet chocolate chips, divided
Heat oven to 350°F.
• 1 cup coarsely chopped walnuts or pecans • 1 can (14 oz.) sweetened condensed milk • 1 package (8 oz.) toffee baking bits, divided
• • •
Coat a 13 x 9-inch baking pan with no-stick cooking spray. In a large bowl, mix together flour and brown sugar. Cut in cold butter with a pastry blender or 2 knives until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add egg, mixing well. Stir in 1 1/2 cups chocolate chips and nuts. Reserve 1 1/2 cups mixture. Press remaining crumb mixture onto bottom of prepared pan. Bake for 10 minutes. Remove from oven and pour sweetened condensed milk evenly over partially baked crust. Reserve 1/4 cup toffee bits. Sprinkle remaining toffee bits over layer in pan. Sprinkle reserved crumb mixture and remaining 1/2 cup chocolate chips over top. Bake for another 25 to 30 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from oven and sprinkle with reserved ¼ cup remaining toffee bits. Cool completely and cut into squares. Enjoy!
• • • • • • •
Bettina Tolin is a graduate of Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts in Austin Texas. She has cooked in the kitchens of the Ritz-Carlton Amelia Island, Florida. She is currently the Executive Chef and owner of Marcello’s Ocean Grille & Spirits overlooking the historic lighthouse in Port Isabel, Texas. Marcello’s Ocean Grille & Spirits was recently written up in Texas Monthly magazine as the new trending restaurant for dinner and brunch in the South Padre Island area.
This Week’s Recipe is Brought to You By: Marcello’s Ocean Grille & Spirits
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December 16, 2020 • • • Welcome
Home WINTER TEXAN • • • www.welcomehomergv.com Se Habla Español
News from Pickpocket Gene Special to Welcome Home RGV
RFID Chips – Radio Frequency Identification Chips
A
n RFID chip can be described as a tiny, two-way radio, and its size can be compared to the size of a grain of rice. The chip itself can contain various types of information. In the case of a credit card, it can reveal the cardholder’s name, creditcard number, and expiration date. A duplicate credit card can be set up and used to purchase whatever the thief wants. RFID chips are becoming more prevalent in hotel keys, credit cards, drivers’ licenses, passports, documents, and everyday products. An RFID scanner or reader can read the chips. In the driver’s license and passport, a lot of information--like your date of birth, driver’s license number, passport number, and sometimes social security number-can be gained by a thief. One of the reasons thieves like chips is the easy availability of card=reading machines and mobile apps. The thieves can purchase a reader or app for an inexpensive amount. If the chip isn’t protected, the thief can gain valuable information or make a duplicate credit card and use it for fraudulent purchases. You can tap your credit card or get it near the reader, and it will connect and charge your card. These cards don’t require a password or PIN; bring it near the reader, and it will make the purchase or let you in the hotel room.
When traveling, many hotels use RFID cards so you can enter your room. Just place the card near the door reader, and the door unlocks. Often, the hotel will provide a sleeve for your room key. Some have RFID protection, and some don’t, but most of the time, the one the hotel offers usually has the room number and hotel name somewhere on the sleeve. If thieves get your room key with the information, they know exactly which room the key will open. Carry and use a different RFID protective sleeve without the roomnumber information. According to Tripwire, a new breed of digital pickpocketers. armed with RFID card readers. can pick up details of credit and debit cards in a matter of seconds. Similarly, attacks on POS (point of sales) systems can cause large-scale security breaches. For instance, in December 2013, hackers gained access to the RFIDenabled POS system of Target stores by installing card readers to track the card details of more than 40 million customers. You can purchase protective sleeves for credit and debit cards, drivers’ licenses, and passports. Some wallets, purses, and other RFID protective devices are available to prevent the bad guys from gaining unwanted access. Next week – RFID and Key Fobs Be aware! Be safe! And don’t become a victim! •
Pickpocket Gene is a certified identity-theft risk-management specialist. Through articles and live presentations, he helps people reduce their risk of becoming a victim.
With over 79 years of experience and 95% patient satisfaction rating,
you know Beltone is the name you can trust.
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•••
Welcome Home WINTER TEXAN • • • December 16, 2020 27
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December 16, 2020 • • • Welcome
Home WINTER TEXAN • • • www.welcomehomergv.com