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Welcome Home WINTER TEXAN • • • January 27, 2021
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We’re just connecting the dots.
VOLUME 6 • ISSUE 15 • January 27, 2021 • • • your official connection to the rio grande valley • • •
hello FROM KRISTI
I
know the cover story on this week’s newspaper doesn’t speak well to some of us who are in the middle of trying to lose the holiday (and pandemic) weight, but it’s a great story about small-business success right here in South Texas. We have so many Valley success stories, and we are proud of who we are and where we come from. The Valley is a wonderful place to live, and although I might be a bit biased because I’ve lived here all my life, I just love it! If I had to say what my favorite thing about South Texas is, I’d have to say it’s just easy. Now, again, some of that might be because I never left, but I always know who to call for this, that, and the other thing. And while McAllen has grown by leaps and bounds since I was a kid (more years ago than I care to admit), it still has that small-town feel to it. Fortunately, we now have all the shopping that goes along with it! We’re always ready to celebrate success, so if you have any suggestions on people or places you’d like to know more about, let us know! • We’re just connecting the dots,
Kristi
THANK YOU TO OUR
2020-2021
SEASON SPONSORS
Story and photos by Gretchen Losi
J
ust a mile from the border lies a scrumptious workshop where chocolate beans from six countries arrive to create some of the smoothest, creamiest, most unique chocolate flavors in the world. It’s Mozna chocolate…and you’re invited. Mozna is an intimate chocolate factory in Hidalgo that began with a simple dream of a local chocoholic. “My husband just came home from work one day and said, ‘Let’s start making chocolate.’ So, we did,” said co-owner Rosario Matulewicz. The Spanish professor and her husband, Anthony, an immigration attorney, had no background in chocolate-other than loving it. No family recipes were stored away; not so much as a cooking class under their belt. But that wasn’t going to stop
MOZNA’S CHOCOLATE DREAMS CONTINUED ON PAGE 4 >>
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January 27, 2021 • • • Welcome
Home WINTER TEXAN • • • www.welcomehomergv.com
WINTER
TEXAN • • • OF THE • • • WEEK Ginny McPherren
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
calendar@welcomehomergv.com
Anne Marie Martin events@welcomehomergv.com
The deadline for submission is Mondays at 5:00pm. •
Business Development
by Rocio Villalobos
96-year-old Palmview Golfer Inspiring Others by Leading Active Lifestyle G
inny McPherren does not believe has held various jobs, including as in excuses. She recently celebrated a police officer, a teacher, and, most her 96th birthday and is active as recently, a nurse. ever at Palmview’s Mission West RV “It’s just whatever became available Resort. and interested me,” she said. “As The North Carolina native has been a nurse, I can see the importance visiting the RGV for 10 years, driving of staying busy, keeping your mind herself down to South busy, keeping your body “I have had one Texas and staying active busy, and laying off the of the most beautiful, in all the park has to stuff that doesn’t add to offer--especially golfing. your welfare.” most productive and “I’m up by 8:00 every Apart from golf, she satisfying lives morning and get my day anyone could have had. is involved in her church, started with coffee and singing and playing It’s just been one breakfast,” McPherren instruments; at the age beautiful experience, said. “I have to be out by of 11, she taught herself nd my Heavenly Father 10 because that’s when how to play the banjo. In is responsible for it all.” her time at the park, she golf starts.”
She has taught golf has gotten to know most • Ginny McPherren • lessons throughout of her neighbors. her life and continues helping her “If they go to the jam session, if neighbors who want to improve. they go to church, if they play cards “I have a knack where I can see or golf, I know them,” she said. “I what they’re doing wrong,” she said. really don’t know the ones that stay “This one guy was playing, and I kept home, sit on their butts and do watching him, and he was a pretty nothing.” good golfer. After awhile, I went While she encourages others to over and said, ‘Let’s move your hand take charge of their health by getting like this,’ and from then on, he was active, McPherren said she does not really playing. I love seeing them get like to push people. Instead, she better.” chooses to lead by example. McPherren hits the golf course twice “I have had one of the most a day, as she believes in keeping beautiful, most productive and active and always improving. satisfying lives anyone could have “I’m competitive in everything I had,” she said. “It’s just been do,” she said. “I can’t help it; I play one beautiful experience, and my to win.” Heavenly Father is responsible for it Throughout her life, McPherren all.” •
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.
Weekly e-Blasts
Stacy Madden sales@welcomehomergv.com Curt James Riester curt@welcomehomergv.com
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
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Accounting
on Social Media!
Anna Talbert accounting@welcomehomergv.com
Editor
Chris Ardis news@welcomehomergv.com
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:
Graphic Design
Jenny R Carpenter artwork@welcomehomergv.com
Social Media / Photographer Eryn Reddell-Wingert eryn@welcomehomergv.com
news@welcomehomergv.com
Perks for Partners! •
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www.facebook.com @whrgv @wintertexan
Elizabeth Seal elizabeth@welcomehomergv.com Sarah Scott sarah@welcomehomergv.com Sabina Adames sabina@welcomehomergv.com
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www.youtube.com Find on YouTube Channel “Welcome Home Rio Grande Valley”
Activity Coordinator
Fran Adams fran@welcomehomergv.com
www.instagram.com @welcomehomergv @wintertexans
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Rita Huether rita@welcomehomergv.com
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rio grande valley
219 W. Nolana • McAllen, TX 78504
956-687-5115
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Welcome Home WINTER TEXAN • • • January 27, 2021
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hen long-time Winter Texan Donna Cooper had to sell her place in Sun Valley Village in Harlingen, she gave the Ladies Club her wonderful collections. She had collected over 150 new Beanie Babies and 50 McDonald’s toys still in plastic. Ladies Club president
Lovey Netrval and Jackie Beauregard contacted the local police and fire departments. They give these toys out to children during traumatic times. We also added some donuts for all of the stations. We hope our efforts will bring comfort to many children. •
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Lovey Netrval and Jackie Beauregard from Sun Valley Village in Harlingen with the local police who came during a meeting to pick up our donation.
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January 27, 2021 • • • Welcome
Home WINTER TEXAN • • • www.welcomehomergv.com
>> MOZNA’S CHOCOLATE DREAMS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1
them from giving this tasty dream a sweet chance. That was in 2015. Today, Mozna brings in hundreds of pounds of cacao beans from Tanzania, India, Vietnam, Mexico, Venezuela, and Columbia to create their smooth, silky chocolate that is now sold worldwide. And their small-batch and artisanal handling of the sweet goodness keeps their popularity growing. Using old-world techniques, each bar is single sourced, making the flavor unique to each country of origin and allowing the palate to recognize the chocolate beans from Vietnam deliver more of a raisin flavor compared to the naturally sweeter Mexico chocolate…and so on. There is so much going on in this little factory you’re just going to have to check it out for yourselves--and they hope you do! Like a page out of Willy Wonka, this chocolate factory has opened its charmed doors to welcome the public in to experience the scrumptious magic they create daily. Upon arrival, you are greeted by the decadent fragrance of chocolate wafting through the air. Instantly, you have a sense of how Charlie must have felt when he stepped foot into the legendary chocolate factory, and one can’t help but smile. Don’t bother fighting it. No matter your age, you will become a kid in a candy store. And it just keeps getting better. Their small staff (not Oompa Loompas) is all smiles. They warmly welcome you in to show off how they spend their candy-coated days creating chocolate goodness in all shapes and sizes. The tour includes a bit of everything, including a few lessons in chocolate history, a tour of the factory, an inside peek at what’s being created, a sampling of all things dark chocolate, and, on special tours, a ‘Make-Your-Own’ time for those wanting to create their personal concoctions and labels. Incredibly, Mozna chocolate contains only two ingredients--cacao and cane sugar--creating an essence unlike anything most of us have tasted. This practice also allows the health benefits to remain topshelf. Still, they don’t stop there. The Mozna team has created a line of popular health bars using locally grown ingredients like sapodilla to bring valuable nutrients and fun flavors to their fast-growing favorites. The impressive flavor is also credited to Mozna’s mammothsized, German-made, 1956-vintage chocolate-grinding machine. They fire the giant--with its impressive granite wheels and base--up a few times a month to grind the beans
Mozna Tours are offered year-round by calling 956-429-3809. The factory is located at 115 E Brazil, Hidalgo and their website is moznachocolate.com.
But what is a ‘Mozna’? The company name honors a beloved family pet they had named ‘Mozna,’ which they believed was polish for ‘strong one.’ So when it came time to name their business, it was an easy fit. Not long afterward, they discovered Mozna translates into ‘you can,’ “which works even better,” said co-owner Rosario Matulewicz. down into liquid, further evidence of how they proudly produce old-world, artisanal chocolate. Aside from Mozna’s regular inventory of tasty chocolate bars from beans around the world, they also create giant, candy-filled hearts, high heels, lips, holiday, seasonal treats, and special orders that come in regular thanks to their no-hassle shipping. It’s an easy drive that makes for a uniquely delicious afternoon, but if
you are unable to tour, their goodies can be found in several shops and farmers markets around the Rio Grande Valley. They are proudly registered with ‘Go Texas’ and wouldn’t mind being conveniently located in the local H-E-B one day. Until then, they are currently setting their sights on opening a chocolatecoffee-fusion shop, where folks can come and sample their treats in a relaxed setting. •
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Welcome Home WINTER TEXAN • • • January 27, 2021
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January 27, 2021 • • • Welcome
Home WINTER TEXAN • • • www.welcomehomergv.com
2021 Butterflies and Beautification By Stephen Polonski, co-owner, Split Rail RV Resort
W
ith 2020 finally behind us (Thank goodness!) and the hopes of a happier and more normal year ahead, Split Rail RV Resort took the opportunity before the fall season kicked off to focus on Resort beautification. An emphasis was placed on all of the wonderful butterflies that migrate through our beautiful slice of South Texas, the Rio Grande Valley. In late spring of 2020, three residents proposed to our management the idea of starting a resident fundraiser to purchase one of Mission’s Upper Valley Art League’s butterfly sculptures that are displayed within the Mission area and local businesses. These three amazing ladies wanted to make sure there would be a prominent place for the butterfly and, if needed, asked if the office staff could assist with the process. Without hesitation, we offered to match, dollar-for-dollar, what they raised. Within just one week, we had the funds to purchase the sculpture and butterfly-attracting plants and flowers. We were so blessed that the folks at Split Rail rallied behind this beautification effort so quickly. As word traveled through the
Resort--more quickly than email or social media does--one resident asked if he could personally purchase another butterfly in memory of his wife. Being such a beautiful and caring memorial to his wife, we quickly identified another area that would display the butterfly for all residents to enjoy on their morning walks and bicycle rides. Within a couple of weeks, we met with the president of the Art League, Maxilou Link, her incredible team to order the two sculptures. As a bonus, we toured the Exhibit Hall, with its unique and colorful artwork. (It’s definitely worth a visit for folks who enjoy vibrant art and creativity while supporting the local art league! The butterflies were to be delivered by the end of summer. Before this, Resort prepared for the butterflies’ respective prominent places around the main Rec Hall and the swimming-pool area, as well as an ample gardening area for the plants and flowers that would surround the sculptures to bring them to life, with fluttering activity from happy and colorful butterflies. As a point of reference, the Rio Grande Valley is home to approximately 300 documented
species of butterflies. We experience a convergence of butterflies from Central America and Mexico in their northern range, as well as migrating butterflies from North America funneling south through the RGV for their fall and winter migration. We sourced plants native to the RGV area from our friends at the Valley Nature Center in Weslaco and the world-renowned National
Butterfly Center in Mission, just a few minutes from Split Rail. These butterfly-attracting plants include Gregg’s blue mistflower, colorful and vibrant lantana, nectar-rich Crucita, Mexican orchid trees, and, most importantly, milkweed for the beloved Monarch butterfly. These plants have drawn to Split 2021 BUTTERFLIES AND BEAUTIFICATION CONTINUED ON PAGE 11 >>
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Welcome Home WINTER TEXAN • • • January 27, 2021
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t was a wet, cool January day, but that didn’t stop Welcome Home RGV from attending the second round of the Entertainers Showcase last week. Each year, entertainers perform in front of a crowd of activity directors, with hopes of bookings for the following season. Each entertainer has nine minutes to show off his or her talents. This year, with COVID-19, the showcase was held outdoors at Mission Bell Resort, and social distancing and CDC protocols were followed. Thursday’s lineup included Midnight Mustang Band, In Six Days, Punch & Bobbi, Rusty
Rierson, Lindley Creek, Curt James, Monroe Sun, Super Comedy Show, Nu-Blu, Jim Hanson, Ralph Kuster, and John Len. The Rio Grande Valley is blessed with a wide variety of things to do, as well as with excellent entertainment. We’re thankful for all of the entertainers who come to South Texas each season to keep us entertained. While this year has been a challenge, we are all looking forward to a time when we can all gather--indoors and up close--and enjoy an evening of South-Texasstyle entertainment! •
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January 27, 2021 • • • Welcome
Home WINTER TEXAN • • • www.welcomehomergv.com
www.welcomehomergv.com
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Welcome Home WINTER TEXAN • • • January 27, 2021
THROUGH
9
ERYN’S LENS Exclusive to Welcome Home RGV Photos: Eryn Reddell-Wingert
Afternoon Drive • Pharr-Edinburg January 2020
O
ne of the many great things about the Rio Grande Valley is that no matter what city you live in, within minutes, you can be on a country road. The sites to be found include fields sprouting with new vegetation, a forest of bushy palm trees, springs of sunflowers, and a variety of birds. You can also find respite from the world by taking a quiet drive on a sunny afternoon. •
•••
Things I Have Learned While Watching by Bill Ward
T O D AY ’ S W I S D O M “Sometimes life is too hard o be alone, and sometimes life is too good to be alone.” Elizabeth Gilbert
A
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
few years back, before retirement, I had a lot of support around me. These people didn’t know they were my support, but they were. You could say they were my “tribe.” There were about a hundred people where I worked, and I worked quite closely with a lot of them. We got along well and supported each other. I also was in two families, complete with four intact generations. I was embraced by both of those families. I was also in a variety of bands throughout my life. My fellow musicians were all friends, and we encouraged and supported each other. My wife and I were members of a church, and we were both plugged in deeply. We had, and still have, many friends there, and we feel loved and
supported. I could give more examples, but you get the picture. I am blessed beyond measure by the various tribes I have been a part of. They gave me purpose, comradery, and a place where I belonged. They made me feel useful. They also supported me when times were tough. It’s all good. I suspect you can say the same thing. We need our tribes, and, without them, we lose our anchor in life. But one of the things I have learned is that tribes don’t last forever. I retired seven years ago. That work family disappeared overnight. It was a difficult adjustment. Many of you know that from firsthand experience. I have also lost many of my own family members. Not a lot of us still have our parents left, and now we are losing siblings and spouses, too. We aren’t so active in our community groups anymore, and recently the church even became a difficult group to hold together. I just wrote a story for a history book
A somewhat random and reckless look at life from a fairly old guy
I am Wanted…I Hope about a man who had lost his support people. His solitary life didn’t end well. It underscored, for me, how badly we need other people in our lives. We are meant to exist in relationships. In aloneness, our ability to live well is severely handicapped. When we are alone, it can be hard to reach out to others. We don’t want to appear needy or broken. Sometimes it is just easier to not make the effort. Maybe that leaves it up to those still blessed by functioning social groups to find “alone” people and adopt them. I live in a senior community part of each year. We have lots of gatherings. I have been in a crowd of a hundred people there and felt completely alone. I have also learned that one of the greatest little pleasures is walking into a room and having someone pull a chair back and signal me to join them. Yea! I belong. I’m wanted. I have a tribe. I’m just sayin’. •
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January 27, 2021 • • • Welcome
Home WINTER TEXAN • • • www.welcomehomergv.com
with Chaplain Criss Hastings
Eye Physician & Surgeon Board Certified Ophthalmologist
• Holy Empowerment •
Services Provided by Buena Vista Optical team
The
gospel works by leading people to change this world and experience God’s glory. The Lord is constantly working around us in our lives, our homes, and our workplaces to advance his kingdom. God has empowered his people with unique gifts and abilities that strengthen believers in their calling. This is not in any way a reflection of a person’s spiritual maturity or holiness, as much as it is a gracious sign and pointer to the glory that is from God. Believers have been gifted and encouraged to press forward in the calling that he has given. The Holy Spirit empowers us to persevere in difficulty and provides all that is needed to be faithful, no matter where we are in life. We have not been left to ourselves, but we have been “clothed with power from on high” (Luke 24:49). This power from God is not something we can earn or conjure up on our own, but it is available freely and daily to those who are in Christ. We have been empowered by God so we may taste his glory and goodness and so others may, as well. Whenever we mistake God’s power for our own ability, we can become a hindrance to God’s gracious work. We often face moments in our lives when we feel inadequate, overwhelmed, and incapable. In these moments of anxiety and stress, we can look to ourselves or to others to find a reason to press forward. But when we turn exclusively to these options, we forfeit the grace given to empower us. God has given us HIS Spirit (John 15:26-27: I will
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Criss Hastings is from Paradise Park RV Resort, Harlingen. Criss and her husband, Chaplain Jeff Hastings, served as park chaplains in Paradise for about five years. They have recently been called to a full-time ministry in North Carolina. Criss submitted this devotional prior to that move. Services continue at Paradise Park each Sunday under our new chaplain, David Winchester, and his wife, Ellie.
send you the Helper from the Father. The Helper is the Spirit of truth who comes from the Father. When he comes, he will tell about me. And you will tell people about me, too, because you have been with me from the beginning) so we may endure the trials and challenges laid before us, both big and small. God’s power is felt in many ways. You may feel strength and encouragement from within yourself or feel energized and find you have more stamina to finish what you started. This doesn’t mean that God gives us everything we want or ask for. Rather, it means he is faithful to give us whatever we need, when we need it. •
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•••
Welcome Home WINTER TEXAN • • • January 27, 2021 11
>> 2021 BUTTERFLIES AND BEAUTIFICATION CONTINUED FROM PAGE 6
Rail’s butterfly gardens many RGV favorites, such as red-bordered pixie, Mexican bluewing, malachite, zebra heliconian, queens, soldiers, and, of course, those beautiful Monarchs! We venture into the new year with the promise of much happier days, hugs, and get-togethers with family and friends and a renewed appreciation for how precious and important every day is. We hope our contribution to the butterflymigration miracle that graces the Rio Grande Valley is just a little better, not only for nature but for the enjoyment of our amazing Winter Texans and residents at Split Rail who are having an active and funfilled winter season in our beautiful little slice of Texas. •
JOIN THE FUN!
girlfriend getaway on spi Special to Welcome Home RGV
N
eed a break? Ready to scrap that to-do list and just chill out? We hear you. Grab your girls and escape to South Padre Island for fun, sun and relaxation! Total Relaxation Treat yourself to the getaway you deserve. With packages that span anywhere from two hours to a full day, leave all your troubles behind and enjoy complete relaxation at the Sapphire Spa. Shop ‘Til You Drop! Save room in your suitcase! South Padre Island has a variety of hidden gems to please the pickiest of shopaholics. Check out Sisters Interiors and Cactus Flower Interiors for home décor and Kingfisher Gallery for unique offerings in art, pottery, and sculptures. If you’re looking for fun and eclectic jewelry to commemorate your trip to the Island, K’s Jewelry & Beads and Karen’s Custom Toe Rings are a must. And, for women’s fashion
on-trend, stop by Barbara’s and Annabelle’s to secure your spot on the Island’s best-dressed list. Did Someone Say Brunch? Brunch is a favorite on South Padre Island. Sleep in a little and relax and, whenever you’re ready, enjoy some delicious island fare. Find more info on the food and drink options the island has to offer at sopadre.com/food-drink . We Serve All Our Drinks with a View Beachside or bayside, sunrise or sunset…no matter where you are on South Padre Island or what time of day it is ,you don’t have to look very hard for a spectacular view. There are many restaurants and bars on the Island that boast great views of the Gulf of Mexico or the Laguna Madre Bay. Always ask what they have on special! Find out more about the best ways to enjoy South Padre Island on sopadre.com. •
SHOW
BYOB * Snack Bar Available * No outside food *Social Distancing and Masks Required* *Temperatures taken at door*
Redneck Revival Friday, January 29th
6:00 PM to 7:30 PM • Pass the Hat
Ron & Jan Easter Thursday, February 4th 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM Ticket $6.00
DANCE
Diego and Edith Valentines Dance Friday, February 12th 7:00 PM to 9:30 PM Ticket $9.00
BYOB * Snack Bar Available * No outside food *Social Distancing and Masks Required* *Temperatures taken at door*
4770 N. Mayberry Road Mission, TX 78573
956-580-4545
Terry Miller • Activity Director
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January 27, 2021 • • • Welcome
Home WINTER TEXAN • • • www.welcomehomergv.com
www.welcomehomergv.com
•••
Welcome Home WINTER TEXAN • • • January 27, 2021 13 Bit-O-Heaven RV and Mobile Home Resort
• • • Exclusive to Welcome Home RGV
CAPTURES
Green Gate Grove Palmview, Texas January 2021
Photos by Ron Kowalczyk
This week, Ron Kowalcyzk shares the spotlight with Brent Galloway. Brent captured these amazing sunset images at Green Gate Grove in Palmview and said, “There’s nothing better than a Valley sunset.” We couldn’t agree more, Brent! •
1051 W. Bus Hwy 83 Donna, TX 78537
www.bit-o-heaven.net EVERY TUESDAY : HAPPY HOUR NOT OPEN TO PUBLIC
EVERY WEDNESDAY : ENTERTAINMENT
Ice cream bars for sale/BYOB • OPEN TO THE PUBLIC MASKS REQUIRED • THANK YOU Feb. 3 • Lindley Creek (OUTSIDE) 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM • $10.00 Feb. 10 • Shake, Rattle & Roll 50's Show (INSIDE) 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM • $10.00
STREET DANCE FRIDAY : OUTSIDE/DAYTIME 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM • OPEN TO THE PUBLIC BYOB, Snacks; Popcorn and soda for sale BRING YOUR OWN CHAIRS • THANK YOU
No Dance on Jan 29 Feb. 5 • Sweetwater • $8.00 Feb. 12 • Regan James Band Valentine's Dance • $8.00 Feb. 19 • Steven May Band • $8.00 Feb. 26 • Top Line Country Band • $8.00 Mar. 10 • Sweetwater Band • $8.00
EVERY THIRD FRIDAY • 11:00AM R/C TRACK RACING
$10 Entry fee first car; $5 each additional car Fee includes lunch; lunch available for $4 for spectators Bring a chair and watch the races; free admission Sponsored by COBA Internet Systems, New Sun Racing & RGV Raceway Cash prizes and trophies
EVERY SATURDAY JAM SESSION : OUTSIDE
BYOB & Snacks MASKS REQUIRED • THANK YOU
1:00 PM - 3:00 PM Come and sing or play or just listen
CRAFT FAIR : OUTSIDE
Second Friday Every Month (Nov - Mar) 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM Bake sale Items MASKS REQUIRED • THANK YOU
PATIO SALES
Second Saturday Every Month (Nov - Mar) 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM • Pick up map at Front gate MASKS REQUIRED • THANK YOU
Susan Thomas, A C T I V I T Y
DIRECTOR
603-396-2786 / fulltimers@earthlink.net
WE ARE OPEN! TRY OUR TEXAS SIZE PORK TENDERLOIN Wednesday ............... 11am - 8pm Thursday .................. 11am - 8pm Friday ...................... 11am - 8pm Saturday................... 11am - 8pm Sunday..................... 11am - 8pm SOCIAL DISTANCE SEATING
Relax outside by the Rio Grande River. Plenty of outside seating on our covered deck & patio. Plenty of inside dining area as well. Face Mask required.
*Event Center Available for Park Gatherings*
Words of wisdom for a
happy new year: Special to Welcome Home RGV
“A time to say goodbye and a time to say hello. A time to bid farewell and a time to look forward. A time to let go and a time to learn new things. That is what happens when the new year rings in.” Catherine Pulsifer
LIVE MUSIC
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
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
Riverside Dreamer RIVER TOURS
CALL TODAY 956-581-4477 *** RESERVATIONS SUGGESTED *** 1 HOUR RIVER TOUR
Wednesday ............1:00pm 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
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January 27, 2021 • • • Welcome
Home WINTER TEXAN • • • www.welcomehomergv.com
PAYING TOO MUCH FOR INSURANCE? CALL US TODAY AND FIND OUT!
Gretchen’s
Adventures Special to Welcome Home RGV
E
very time writer Gretchen Losi and her husband get in the car, an adventure is around every corner. These are a few of their latest discoveries. •
Program Highlights: We discovered Citrus Theater, built in 1940 and closed in 1989. She’s still a beauty. 108 N. 12th Avenue, Edinburg
• Replacement Coverage for Home and Contents…. No Depreciation • Specialty Agent – Knowledgeable, experienced agents customizing polices • Financially Stable - Companies That Are Rated “A” Or Better • Payment Options - EFT, Credit Card and Monthly Payments Available We can insure any park model or manufactured home no matter Age, Value, or Location
Taking Care of Winter Texans Since 2016
(956) 682-3161
WWW.MRMHINS.COM 801 W. Pecan • McAllen
We Will Save You Money!!! We discovered the coolest little mural at a local park in our hometown of Pharr.
GRETCHEN’S ADVENTURES CONTINUED ON PAGE 17 >>
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
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Welcome Home WINTER TEXAN • • • January 27, 2021 15
Hope to See You at Show ‘n Tell at The Lamb’s Loom
Special to Welcome Home RGV
I
t’s official, and we’re cool with it! Show ‘n Tell is alive and well around here at The Lamb’s Loom. It’s always fun to see what your friends have been up to. This year, though it has been very different for us all, we are still sharing our projects with each other. So that means we want to share a few with y’all. At The Lamb’s Loom, we usually have a little of everything going on--lots of loomers, knitters and crocheters and always another cute pattern to see or a skill to hear about that will help in the future. Plus, it is such a treat to see what everyone is up to, and the talent never ceases to amaze us. We love it all. These are just a few pictures of projects. Some are going in our Donation Chest, and others are off to family and friends for presents. There’s just nothing like a handmade gift. We know the extra effort, care, and attention come through in every stitch.
This week, there’s sure to be more Show ‘n Tell as we celebrate our Seventh Annual Yarn Tasting. This event has become our kick-off for the year, and we will be celebrating this Wednesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. We will announce the final Donation Chest count of 2020 and introduce a few new yarns, and there will be lots of fun and prizes, of course. So please call to reserve your spot. We do hope you’ll come join in with us and become a PEG! Pray. Encourage. Give. Remember, The Lamb’s Loom is not just a yarn shop; it’s a ministry and a mindset. The Lamb’s Loom is located at 1102 Tamarack in McAllen. We are open Wednesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Additional parking is available in the rear via Upas Avenue. You can also find us on Facebook, Instagram, and our website (thelambsloom.com). Or call us at 956-607-6855. •
#loveineverystitch #LambsLoomFun
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January 27, 2021 • • • Welcome
Home WINTER TEXAN • • • www.welcomehomergv.com
saving you more!
COUPON
CONNECTION
Our weekly coupon section will help you SAVE while you are
here. Visit our website www.welcomehomergv.com for more printable coupons. •
Present this coupon at any location below
to receive 1 FREE Glazed Donut and Small Coffee or Small Soda. EDINBURG
1900 W University, Ste #8 956-378-9300
MISSION
2575 Griffin Pkwy, Ste #1 956-271-1006
McALLEN
PHARR
1501 N 10th 956-687-2011
800 S Cage 956-787-0502
One coupon per person per visit at Shipley Donuts stores listed above. 1/20 cent cash redemption value. Offer not valid in combination with any other Shipley Donuts offer. Please present coupon when ordering. Expires 5/31/2021.
S
RE TOURS PER DOLPHIN WATCH & ECO TOURS SUNSET CRUISES PORT OF BROWNSVILLE NATURE TOURS DEEP SEA FISHING - RED SNAPPER BAY FISHING
3 $ 00 3 $
00
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
www.welcomehomergv.com
>> GRETCHEN’S ADVENTURES CONTINUED FROM PAGE 14
We discovered these historical markers of the Mier Expedition near Los Ebanos. What we learned was that General Santa Ana definitely didn’t play.
GRETCHEN’S ADVENTURES CONTINUED ON PAGE 19 >>
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January 27, 2021 • • • Welcome
Home WINTER TEXAN • • • www.welcomehomergv.com
www.welcomehomergv.com
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Welcome Home WINTER TEXAN • • • January 27, 2021 19
>> GRETCHEN’S ADVENTURES CONTINUED FROM PAGE 17
We discovered a walking path that is bicycle-friendly and has tunnels for the pedestrians’ convenience. Hike-and-Bike-Trail Tunnel San Antonio Avenue, San Juan
We discovered a corner along the train tracks in Historical Downtown Harlingen that comes straight from a postcard.
new years• • • Puzzle Fun R
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WORD BANK CHAMPAGNE CHEERS CONFETTI DIET
CHAMPAGNE CHEERS CONFETTI DIET DIET EXERCISE DIET TIME FATHER
WORD LIST: EXERCISE
NEW YEAR FATHER TIME NEW YOU FIREWORKS PARTY HATPARTY HAT GOALS GOALS NEW BEGINNINGS RESOLUTIONS RESOLUTIO NEW BEGINNINGS NEW YEAR
NOTE: Having “DIET” on the puzzle twice is not a mistake because, well, it’s January. FIREWORKS NEW YOU
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January 27, 2021 • • • 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 • • • with Sandy Olson • • •
APPETIZING DELIGHTS
This is one of the easiest snacks you will ever make but so tasty you
may need to double or triple the recipe. If you do, increase the nuts and butter, but one bottle of liquid smoke should do the job. •
•••
The Border Cook
•••
Let’s Make Steak Quesadillas Take Two! Submitted by Randy Hoelscher, The Border Cook
Toasted Smoked Pecans • 2 cups whole pecan halves • 1 stick real butter, no margarine
• 1 bottle (10 oz.) liquid smoke • 1 teaspoon kosher or sea salt
Put the pecans and the entire bottle of smoke into a bowl large
enough to toss them around in. Let them soak for 20 minutes; drain if there is excess liquid in the bottom of the bowl. Melt the butter and put it, along with the salt, in a covered Mason jar or other tightly covered container. Add the pecans and shake well to coat. Serve in individual paper cups on a buffet table. Keep leftovers in a tightly covered jar. • 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
midwestfoodie@gmail.com.
Some Like It Hot Hushpuppies •••
•••
Submitted by The Junior League of McAllen, Inc.
Serves 10-12 • Vegetable oil sufficient for frying • 2 (16½ oz.) cans cream style corn • 2 cups cornmeal • 2 tablespoons chopped green chilies • 1 cup flour • ¼ medium green bell pepper, chopped • 3 eggs • 1 small onion, chopped • 3 teaspoons baking powder • Pinch of baking soda • 1½ teaspoons salt • 1/8 cup (more or less) buttermilk
Heat oil for frying in a deep-fat fryer or deep skillet. Mix all ingredients except buttermilk. Add buttermilk slowly, and mix batter to a consistency of cornbread batter. Drop into medium-hot oil and fry until golden brown. Hints for success: If the batter is too heavy and the hushpuppies do not rise to the top of the oil, add more baking powder. If the batter is too greasy and they fall apart, while frying, add flour. Serve hot. • 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.
This is a re-write of an earlier post. I’ve made these a few times now and have some
improvements to write about that cut down on prep time and simplify ingredients. A quesadilla, in its simplest form, is a fried and folded flour or corn tortilla stuffed with melted cheese. Additional fillings are often added, such as chicken, beef, or vegetables. Additional toppings are also used, such as avocado or guacamole, tomato, onion, cilantro, salsa, crema or sour cream, peppers, and others. I am providing two versions of steak quesadillas, a Tex-Mex version that uses a fajita spice rub and one akin to a Philly cheese steak, seasoned only with salt and pepper. To simplify things, I now suggest using a purchased fajita rub, such as Fiesta-brand Extra Fancy Fajita Seasoning or Fiesta-brand Extra Fancy Southwest Style Fajita Seasoning. Both are also great for chicken or beef fajitas. If making the Philly-cheese-steak version, just use salt and pepper. I found that there is no advantage to marinating the meat ahead of time. Simply sprinkle the meat with the seasoning when frying it. • 2 Tbsp olive oil • ¾ lb. flank steak or skirt steak. • 1 medium onion – sliced thin, cut in half, and separated • 1 green pepper – seeded and sliced into thin strips • 1 jalapeño pepper – seeded and sliced into thin strips • 3 – 10-inch or 6 – 6-inch tortillas (I prefer flour.) • 1½ cups of Mexican melting cheese – Oaxaca or Chihuahua. A mixture of Monterey • Jack and mild cheddar can also be used. Heat a tablespoon of oil in a frying pan to medium0high heat. Fry the meat and sprinkle liberally with fajita seasoning. For the Philly-cheese-steak version, season with salt and pepper. When the steak is cooked rare to medium rare, remove from the heat and set aside. When cooled, slice the strips of meat into small pieces, cutting across the grain. Wipe out the pan, add a tablespoon of oil, and fry the onion and peppers until the onion is translucent but not browned. From here on, the preparation is the same for both quesadilla versions. Building and frying the quesadillas: If using 10-inch tortillas, place 1/3 of the cheese over ½ of the tortilla; add 1/3 of the meat and onion-pepper mixture. Fold the plain half tortilla over the filled half and heat in a dry frying pan over medium heat until the cheese begins to melt. Flip it over carefully and fry the other side. Set aside and repeat with the remaining tortillas. If using 6-inch tortillas, you will layer the filling between two tortillas. Use two spatulas to flip the quesadilla; it’s a little trickier than flipping the folded tortillas. Your quesadilla is done when the cheese is completely melted and the tortilla is getting crispy. To serve: Cut each quesadilla into wedges and serve with Mexican crema or sour cream, fresh cilantro, sliced avocado or guacamole, a salsa of your choice, and lime wedges. Once again, be creative, and use your favorite ingredients. Enjoy! Buen apetito! • 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.
www.welcomehomergv.com
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Welcome Home WINTER TEXAN • • • January 27, 2021 21
bon appetit! with
Executive Chef Bettina
Tolin
Chicken Piccata
Jazz Breakfast Sunday 9:00am to 1:00pm
Daily Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Specials
956-761-PIER (7437) www.Pier19.us 1 Padre Blvd. South Padre Island
From Causeway, turn right on Padre Blvd. You’ll see our sign one block on the right.
I was recently asked again for our Chicken Piccata recipe from Marcello’s. I am fond of sharing recipes rather than keeping them a secret, so here it is. This is actually a simple dish to prepare with just a handful of ingredients that you probably already have on hand anyway. It’s filled with delicious lemony flavor and is deeply satisfying. Please remember that when cooking with wine, you want to be sure to use good quality wine, and always taste it first. Only cook with wine that is good enough to drink, not wine that is left over from last week’s dinner party. Bon Appétit! • FOUR SERVINGS
• 2 skinless and boneless chicken breasts, butterflied and cut in half • Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper • All-purpose flour (for dredging) • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter • 5 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil • 3 tablespoons dry white wine • 1/3 cup fresh lemon juice • 1/2 cup low or no sodium chicken stock • 1/4 cup brined capers, rinsed and drained • 1/3 cup fresh parsley, minced
• • •
Season chicken on both sides with salt and pepper. Dredge chicken in flour and shake off excess. In a large sauté pan over medium high heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter with 3 tablespoons olive oil. When butter and oil start to sizzle a little, add 2 pieces of chicken and cook for 3 minutes on one side. When chicken is browned, flip and cook other side for 3 minutes. Remove and transfer to plate. To the same pan, melt 2 more tablespoons butter and add another 2 tablespoons olive oil and repeat for the remaining 2 pieces of chicken. Remove the chicken and add to the plate. Return the pan to high heat and splash in a little dry white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. This deglazes the pan, scraping up the brown bits from the pan for additional flavor. Add to the pan the lemon juice, stock and capers. Bring to a boil. Taste for seasoning and add kosher salt and pepper as needed. Return all the chicken to the pan and simmer for 5 minutes in the sauce. Remove chicken to a serving platter. Add remaining 2 tablespoons butter to sauce and whisk vigorously. Pour sauce over chicken and garnish with parsley.
• • • • • • •
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: Pier 19 Restaurant and Bar
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January 27, 2021 • • • Welcome
Home WINTER TEXAN • • • www.welcomehomergv.com
• • • WINTER TEXAN EXPO MEMORIES • • • We missed y’all this year but are looking forward to the Winter Texan Expo in 2022! Here are a few memories from years past.
SAVE THE DATE: January 18 & 19, 2022
www.welcomehomergv.com
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Welcome Home WINTER TEXAN • • • January 27, 2021 23
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January 27, 2021 • • • Welcome
Home WINTER TEXAN • • • www.welcomehomergv.com