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Welcome Home WINTER TEXAN • • • February 10, 2021
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We’re just connecting the dots.
VOLUME 6 • ISSUE 17 • February 10, 2021 • • • your official connection to the rio grande valley • • •
hello FROM KRISTI
yyy It’s hard to
believe Valentine’s Day is right around the corner! I’m celebrating a whole lot of years with my sweetheart (32 years in total!), but I know that a lot of you have me beat. Sometimes I think we should give each other medals --instead of chocolate--for our accomplishments over the years! All kidding aside, even though this Valentine’s Day may be a little different than most, we can still celebrate safely with the ones we love. (And, I might add, it would be fun to send some of our single friends a valentine to let them know they’re special, too!) Romance comes in many shapes and sizes, and I find that the most romantic thing my husband does for me is when he cooks dinner (almost all the time). He’s a 9-5 guy, and my schedule is all over the place. I’m rarely home before 6:30, so coming home to dinner most nights is the way he shows me he loves me. And I gladly do the dishes! Love is definitely full of give and take, no matter if you’re married, dating, or just friends. These are definitely interesting times, so I encourage you to show a little love and compassion to everyone around you. Make someone smile today! • We’re just connecting the dots,
Kristi
THANK YOU TO OUR
2020-2021
SEASON SPONSORS
FAST partnered with RGVision and the Harlingen Chamber of Commerce for a Christmas Toy Drive-thru fulfilling requests from foster children.
Foster Angels of South Texas - Bridging
the Gap
Story by Eryn Reddell Wingert • Photos courtesy of FAST
L
ucy Ann Wolthoff was quite content at her marketing and sales job at Welcome Home R.G.V. last spring when a close friend suggested she would be perfect for a job with Foster Angels of South Texas. Lucy Ann balked at the idea. “I told her, ‘Oh, no! I can’t do that.’” she says. But her friend encouraged her just to talk to the organization’s executive director.
The next thing Lucy Ann knew, she was offered the job as the local community outreach director, and with full support from Welcome Home’s owner, Kristi Collier, Lucy Ann accepted. Lucy Ann resonates sunshine with her long blonde hair, sparkling eyes, and bright smile. She grew up in FOSTER ANGELS OF SOUTH TEXAS CONTINUED ON PAGE 4 >>
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February 10, 2021 • • • Welcome
Home WINTER TEXAN • • • www.welcomehomergv.com
WINTER
TEXAN • • • OF THE • • • WEEK Ian & Susan Pollard
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
Long-time Trophy Gardens Visitors Find Another Shot at Love
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minor injury Ian Pollard forth to visit each other. Somewhere experienced while playing bridge at along the way, feelings turned Alamo’s Trophy Gardens RV Resort romantic, and Pollard proposed. turned out to be fate at play. “I had been single for 30 years; in After patching himself up, his fact, I was proudly single,” True said. friends told him to call the Resort’s “I’ve been a confirmed single person 1st-Responder group to take a better for so long, everyone was so shocked look at it, and, unbeknownst to him, and kept thinking, ‘No, that’s not his future wife was true’ so I got several sent. phone calls when it “I had such a “Susan (True) comes came out we were positive experience, knocking on my door going to get married. later that night to take and I’m thinking maybe Nobody would believe care of my owie, and it, so they had to hear they could find the that’s how we met,” it straight from me.” same thing we have now. “I had to convince Pollard said. From then on, a You’re never too old.” her I was worth it,” friendship was forged. Pollard added. • Susan Pollard • The pandemic arrived Pollard, 78, and shortly after, and they True, 75, wed in both spent extra time at the Resort Missouri December 26 at a familyinstead of heading back to their home only ceremony and were surprised states. with a wedding shower when they got “We played cards and walked back to Trophy Gardens January 1. around the park here,” Pollard said. “Two of the men from the Park here Despite not meeting until the were the flower girls and two more injury, they shared a lot in common. were our bridesmaids,” True said. Both have been visiting the park for “Everyone in the Park is so happy for 13 years, they unknowingly shared a us, that we’re together.” bus during the Resort’s trip to New While True never expected to find Orleans for Mardi Gras a few years love again after three decades spent back, and both have a son named single, she believes it was God’s work Ian, close in age. and is now looking to set up some of “We both like road trips, taking off, her other single friends. going places, and just enjoying each “You’ve got to get out there, I guess, other’s company,” Pollard said. and meet new people,” she said. “I When Pollard and True eventually had such a positive experience, and returned to their home states of I’m thinking maybe they could find Missouri and Iowa, respectively, they the same thing we have now. You’re spent the summer going back and never too old.” •
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
Follow Us
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! •
Promotional Division
www.facebook.com @whrgv @wintertexan
Elizabeth Seal elizabeth@welcomehomergv.com Sarah Scott sarah@welcomehomergv.com Sabina Adames sabina@welcomehomergv.com
www.facebook.com/groups/wintertexansrgv
www.youtube.com Find on YouTube Channel “Welcome Home Rio Grande Valley”
Activity Coordinator
Fran Adams fran@welcomehomergv.com
www.instagram.com @welcomehomergv @wintertexans
1st Responder Coordinator
www.twitter.com @welcomehomergv
Rita Huether rita@welcomehomergv.com
Welcome Home
®
rio grande valley
219 W. Nolana • McAllen, TX 78504
956-687-5115
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© Copyright 2021 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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Bit-O-Heaven Buries Time Capsule to Preserve Pandemic Experience Special to Welcome Home RGV
T
uesday, February 2, residents of Bit-O-Heaven RV and Mobile Home Resort buried a time capsule to preserve their memories of the pandemic experience. Residents were asked to write a letter sharing their wishes, a sweet memory, some words of advice, or a prediction. “You can add photos or newspaper
( MI CASA ES SU CASA ) Serving Harlingen, McAllen, Brownsville
articles, if you wish,” they were advised. “You get to decide what message to send to the future about your life during this challenging year.” They plan to dig up the time capsule February 2, 2022, to read the letters aloud and to reminisce. •
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956-682-1591 • Monday-Friday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
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February 10, 2021 • • • Welcome
Home WINTER TEXAN • • • www.welcomehomergv.com
FAST hosts an annual luncheon during which Angel Honorees are presented with gifts. Instead of a gathering, honoree Joel received his during a private lunch. (Photo permission provide by Joel, 18.)
Lucy Ann Wolthoff, FAST Rio Grande Valley director and executive director Hilary Jackson collect gifts for the Focus on a Foster Teen gift drive. Through sponsorship support, FAST fulfilled 120 foster-teen wish lists.
A caseworker picks up new shoes at the Give Them Wings Shoe Drive. FAST presented a total of 300 new pairs to foster children in August 2020.
>> FOSTER ANGELS OF SOUTH TEXAS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1
Harlingen and can be found most weekends enjoying the South Texas pastimes of hunting and fishing with her husband and three children. The family lives in McAllen and remains close to her parents, who still live in her hometown. Lucy Ann dove right into her new job in May--primarily via Zoom video conferencing--promoting awareness and building community support for Foster Angels of South Texas (F.A.S.T.). Within a few months, she was promoted to the fulltime position of Rio Grande Valley director. FAST bridges the gap of support not covered by government agencies for children in foster care. Its mission is to improve the lives of children in foster care, ensuring each child has his or her basic needs met and to providing life-enhancing, lifeenriching opportunities whenever possible. “We assist with basic needs for children, but we also provide things like outings for separated siblings to get together for a few hours, whether it’s for a meal or to go swimming,” says Lucy Ann. Every day, Lucy Ann wakes up motivated to make a difference in
the lives of children burdened with incredible worries, such as where they will live, who will take care of them, and, sometimes, separation from siblings. FAST works closely with caseworkers and the Court Appointed Special Advocate (C.A.S.A.) organization to fulfill needs. Over 2,000 children are in foster care within the 19 counties supported by FAST. Out of those 19, Hidalgo and Cameron counties have the largest number of children in foster care. As of January, Hidalgo has 393 and Cameron 412. Lucy Ann passionately says, “The need is so great. These children don’t have a voice. I am their voice.” By being their voice, Lucy Ann reaches out to community groups, businesses, and leaders, building a network of resources to draw from to fill requests and needs. She also collaborates with other local organizations, such as Blue Sunday in Harlingen, for resources and ideas to avoid overlap and reach as many children as possible. Putting the FAST mission to practice, Lucy Ann helped coordinate the Give Them Wings shoe drive in August. “We wanted
to do something different--put the focus on foster teens,” she shared. Older foster children are often overlooked because things they need cost more. The drive was a success, garnering 300 new pairs of shoes for back-to-school. Lucy Ann says thinking outside the box is key. As 2020 presented even more obstacles to the foster-care system, FAST also adapted its efforts of support. When schools shifted to virtual learning, the demand for tablets and laptops increased at all age levels. “Surprisingly, a lot of schools aren’t able to provide tablets or laptops for remote learning,” Lucy Ann says. Even at the college level, lack of technology was an issue--a big one. When UTRGV classes went to virtual-only instruction, FAST provided laptops to help students make the transition from in-person to online classes. Education is a key element of focus for Lucy Ann in her new role. Only four percent of foster children enroll in college and a mere one percent actually graduate. One goal currently in the works at FAST is to start a scholarship fund to help further support these students through
college. “They need somebody to say you can do this,” she says. Lucy Ann readily shares stories of children who have been so grateful for what they have received. But she also shares how overwhelming the situation is and how much more needs to be done. “I hold on to the good. There are a lot of angels that no one knows about helping these kids,” she shares. “Obviously we don’t do this to see the visible impact, but we work on faith that we are making a difference,” Lucy Ann says. She shares how she believes God has been working through her these past months and how her life has come full circle. “One day I was talking to my mom and sharing how rewarding this job is, and she reminded me of the quotation posted to our refrigerator all through my childhood.” She continues, “I remembered it, but I didn’t know what it meant.” Her mom was referring to Ralph Waldo Emerson’s quotation regarding a successful life lived. In part, it reads: To know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived. This is to have succeeded! “For me,” Lucy Ann shares, “that’s what Foster Angels is about.” •
To learn more about Foster Angels of South Texas, visit fosterangelsstx.org. Follow on Facebook at facebook.com/fosterangelsstx and on Instagram at fosterangels_stx.
www.welcomehomergv.com
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February 10, 2021 • • • Welcome
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UTRGV/Knapp Doctors Promote Wellness, Prevention Special to Welcome Home RGV
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nternal medicine physicians at a new UT Health RGV Internal Medicine Clinic at Knapp Medical Center in Weslaco are promoting wellness and preventive medicine, as well as vigilance, in the fight against COVID-19. Physicians at the clinic are available to help patients with preventative care--managing chronic conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, asthma, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease--and with continuity of care for patients the doctors see in the hospital. Dr. Shadi Jafari-Esfahani, one of 14 physician residents who see patients at the new UTRGV / Knapp Clinic, recently updated members of the Weslaco Rotary Club on the ongoing battle against COVID-19. With COVID vaccines in limited supply in the Valley and across the nation, it is critically important for Valley residents to continue to practice all safety precautions, including wearing masks, maintaining social distance, and avoiding crowded places, Dr. Jafari said. Originally from Vancouver, Canada, Dr. Jafari escaped the cold weather there when she headed south to medical school at the American University of Antigua on the island
Dr. Shadi Jafari-Esfahani
of Antigua in the Caribbean and then came to Weslaco to complete her residency in internal medicine. For more information on the new UTRGV Internal Medicine Clinic at Knapp Medical Center, please call 956-296-7710. The Clinic is located in the Knapp Medical Plaza building (north side of the hospital campus, 1330 E. 6th Street, Suite 105, Weslaco). •
Pharr South Quilters Support
New Harlingen Children’s Shelter
Special to Welcome Home RGV
P
harr South quilters have been busy making quilts for the Blessed Assurance Children’s Shelter in Harlingen. This newly organized nonprofit will provide emergency shelter for children referred to them by Child Protective Services and
police agencies. This communityservice project was a great team effort for both our experienced and new quilters. To learn more about this new shelter, visit their website at bacshelter.org. •
www.welcomehomergv.com
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Fly Fishing in Deep South Texas Special to Welcome Home RGV
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right blue skies, crystal clear water, soft sand bottom, and a slight warm breeze. Don’t forget the schools of fish tailing in shindeep water. We’re not talking about the Caribbean; this fly-fishing wonderland could be closer to home than you might think. South Padre Island is within driving distance for most Texans. This tropical paradise brings in fishermen from around the world to catch record snook, speckled trout, and redfish, to name a few. Finding your perfect fishing hole without another boat in sight is a pretty common occurrence. There are miles and miles of mangroves, spoil islands, and grass-bottom drifts to explore.
You can count on the experience of local fishing guides to get your line tight, if you’re new to the area. Be sure to ask if they specialize in trout, redfish, flounder, or snook. Depending on the time of year, they will know the spots to find the fish of your dreams. If you prefer to stake out on your own path, there are endless trails accessible by 4WD (four-wheel drive), a few public parking lots on the north flats, and public boat ramps across the island. Whether you prefer to hire a local guide or head out on your own adventure, sopadre.com can help you plan your next trip to some of the most beautiful fishing spots in Texas. •
Friday, February 19 • 11 am to 2 pm • 55+ ADULT MEMBER PARK • • Pool/Spa • Seasonal Craft Sales • Quilting • Billiards • Wednesday Dances • Library • Health Screenings • Potluck Suppers • Bingo • Flea Market • Cards/Texas Hold’em • Golf Groups • Water Aerobics • Ice Cream • Golf Cart Parades • Shuffle Board • Painting Classes • Sunday Services • Bowling • Line Dance Lessons • Patio Sales • Sunday Jams • Weekly Professional Entertainment • Free WiFi in the Recreation Hall • Pickle Ball Courts
205 S. Stewart Road • Mission, Texas
www.fiestavillagetx.com
(956) 585-9264
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February 10, 2021 • • • Welcome
Home WINTER TEXAN • • • www.welcomehomergv.com
www.welcomehomergv.com
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ERYN’S LENS Exclusive to Welcome Home RGV Photos: Eryn Reddell-Wingert
Veterans War Memorial of Texas
T
McAllen
he Veterans War Memorial of Texas honors the 1.4 million Americans killed or missing in action during the nation’s wars and conflicts. The focal point is the American Spire of Honor, made of black granite andreaching 105 feet in height. The memorial is located at 3129 Galveston Avenue--next to the McAllen Convention Center and Performing Arts Center--and is open 24 hours a day. The City of McAllen hosts ceremonies on the grounds each year on Veterans Day, Memorial Day, and Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day. (Source: mcallen.net/veterans) •
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Things I Have Learned While Watching by Bill Ward
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
I don’t generally include photos in
this column, but please indulge me with the inclusion of this one. Yes, it is my three kids, taken many years ago. Now, in your own mind, substitute a photo of your kids here, assuming you were lucky enough to have them. No, this isn’t the perfect family story. Like so many of yours, our story is more complicated. We planned to have three children. The little girl in the middle is actually number four. There is one missing who we hope to meet another day. Whatever your story, I assume your children are now long grown up and gone on with their own lives, as my three have. We now see them as adults, but weirdly, we also still see them just as they were in the photo. They will always be those young, innocent children somewhere in our mind and our memory. We can’t read them bedtime stories, or fix their bikes, or drive them to pep band anymore. They don’t need that. But we can encourage them, take interest in their lives, be the sounding board when they need advice, and just be an anchor that grounds them in a good place. We can be part of the framework of their lives. And, we can love them!
One of the things I have learned is that it is impossible to stop being “Dad.” They no longer need me to do the “dad” stuff in their lives. However, they do want me to do some of the dad stuff in their lives, and I want to be doing it. That relationship doesn’t stop when we move on. You know very well your own parents continue to be a framework of your life, even though they are gone. It’s freaky sometimes; they aren’t really gone. They live in
A somewhat random and reckless look at life from a fairly old guy
Grown but Not Gone
your head. At any rate, the point is that we will never stop seeing our kids as kids, and that’s a good thing. I am glad my kids see me as part of the anchor of their lives because they became part of the anchor of my life the day I met each one. Oh, and sometimes when I hug one of them as an adult, I am secretly thinking of the little kid in the photo. It’s okay to do that. I’m just sayin’. •
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February 10, 2021 • • • Welcome
Home WINTER TEXAN • • • www.welcomehomergv.com
with Chaplain Robert N. Ruesch
• The Whisper Christian •
Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Deuteronomy 31:6
S
ometimes prayers are whispered in quiet desperation. I have done that, but not all the time. However, I am aware there are hundreds of thousands of Christians who cannot pray, praise, sing, or celebrate out loud. These Christians prevail, meeting in cloistered silence. Gathering together in trepidation but with eternal bravery knowing. at any split second, they could be caught and sentenced to hard labor or death. The preacher keeps a packed bag close, just in case the contrary government to Christianity storms in where they are meeting, where they gather to whisper their prayers, murmur their songs, and listen quietly to a courageous man of God bring the message of Christ. They have a deep enduring thirst to hear God’s word. He knows the meeting could be breached by jack-boot soldiers, the representatives of the country’s government who will forcibly take him away, more than likely never to see his family or daylight and “freedom” again. He has a bag close by so he will have some clothes, maybe a book, possibly letter-writing paper, and other necessary items. Perhaps he will be able to keep his possessions; undoubtedly not, but it is worth the effort. During the service, when a verse is referenced, te whisperers gather around the person who has that specific book of the Bible. You see, the word of God is torn into separate books, lest one person gets arrested for having this eternal word. Other books in the Bible are not lost. They share the torn Bible so everyone has the opportunity to read the six-sixty books. There is no accurate number to know how many Christians feel compelled to whisper to the Lord. We know we have the freedom to shout to the Lord at any time. We know we do not have to be afraid of our worshiping together. However, we do need to be vigilant; it has come to this in our nation, Open Doors, a nonprofit
Eye Physician & Surgeon Board Certified Ophthalmologist Chaplain Robert N. Ruesch is the CEO of Christian Resort Ministries, which places chaplains in RV resorts across the United States. He is also the author of two books, In the Warmth of the Shadow, and When We Were Pioneers, available online. If you are interested in answering God’s call to be a chaplain, please contact us at 210-549-9006.
organization, reports that, in the past year, in the top 50 oppressive countries, 245 million Christians experienced high levels of persecution. Four thousand one hundred thirty-six believers were slain for their faith. That is an average of 11 people per day! Stephen was the first of the disciples to be killed for his faith and said he could see Jesus standing at the right hand of God. I wonder if Jesus stands whenever a believer is martyred for his or her faith? These persecuted Christians will continue to worship; they will continue to trust in God and are prepared for any oppression that can--and definitely will be--reigned down upon them. These are the Whisper Christians, found in many countries around the world where Christianity, God, and Jesus are not recognized by the government, where churches are destroyed, burned (sometimes with worshipers in the building), where they could be the recipient of a bomb threat or an act of heinous violence targeting their faith; and they continue to worship. All who believe in Jesus will be welcomed into Heaven. There we will have the honor of meeting those who could only whisper and now can shout praises to the Lord for eternity. Perhaps it is time to shout to the Lord, make a joyful noise, and dance for His pleasure. •
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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
www.welcomehomergv.com
7-night Western Caribbean Cruise February 6-13, 2022 Sail Dates Ports of Call • Cozumel, Mexico • Puerto Costa Maya, Mexico • Roatan, Honduras
Leave RGV on February 5, 2022 Pre-Cruise hotel with Breakfast • Round trip transfers from Rio Grande Valley Non-Transferable • Cruise Care Insurance and Gratuities are additional
Call 956-687-5115 today
for more information and/or to make your reservation
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February 10, 2021 • • • Welcome
Home WINTER TEXAN • • • www.welcomehomergv.com
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• • • Exclusive to Welcome Home RGV
Green Gate Grove Palmview, Texas CAPTURES
February 2021
Photos by Ron Kowalczyk
Ron Kowalczyk reports: The subtropical climate of the Rio Grande Valley is very favorable to beautiful tropical flowers and shrubs, as well as a wide variety of cacti like those seen here at Green Gate Grove in Palmview. Our beautiful flowers, plants, and trees have come from all over the world and thrive here. •
JOIN THE FUN!
DANCE
Diego and Edith Valentines Dance
Friday, February 12th
7:00 PM to 9:30 PM Doors will open to public at 6:30pm
Ticket $9.00 at door Limited seating
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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February 10, 2021 • • • Welcome
Home WINTER TEXAN • • • www.welcomehomergv.com
Virtual Lunar New Year Celebration with the IMAS Special to Welcome Home RGV
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elcome in the Year of the Ox with an at-home experience with the International Museum of Art & Science (IMAS) and participating community partners celebrating Lunar New Year. Friday, February 12, the community is invited for a special story time with librarians from McAllen Public Library Lark Branch and a Lunar New Year celebration video premiering at 3:00 p.m. on the IMAS Facebook page. The video will include a look into previous Lunar New Year festivals at the IMAS, the Korean light-sculpture exhibit, Taiwanese videos, and community submissions. The IMAS is once again hosting special giant light sculptures on museum grounds for visitors to view throughout the month of February. The City of Jinju, South Korea, has loaned these sculptures to the IMAS following their special appearances in the McAllen Holiday Parade in 2019 and at the McAllen Convention Center in 2020. This collaboration bridges both communities through festivals and cultural events, such as the Lunar New Year celebration. Each year, the IMAS hosts a Lunar New Year event, which celebrates the rich traditions of Asian cultures, alongside support from several Asian organizations in the Rio Grande Valley. While the Gregorian calendar that is used in the United States is based on the solar year, the calendar used in most Asian countries, including China, Taiwan, Korea, Vietnam, and Tibet, is based on the phases of the moon. Lunar New Year begins February 12, with the first new moon of the lunar calendar, and will end on the first full moon, 15 days later. The yearly festival celebrates the coming of spring, and each year is represented by an animal from the Chinese zodiac. This year, the calendar started at the beginning, making 2021 the Year of the Ox. “I am thankful for the community efforts we’ve received, particularly from the Chinese American
Association,” said IMAS director of education Claudia Martinez Gray. “They donated items for the celebration bags, including face masks from Taiwan. Without the support of the local Asian community, it would not be possible for us to host such a rich and educational cultural event. The McAllen Public Library has been generous in their support to help us reach IMAS audiences virtually this year.” IMAS cultural programs, such as Lunar New Year, are supported in part by a grant from Humanities Texas. The museum is located at the intersection of Bicentennial Way and Nolana Avenue at 1900 W. Nolana in McAllen. Modified hours of operation are 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. Wednesdays, 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. is reserved for visitors with sensory sensitivities. Current admission is $1 (ages four and up). Please check our website theimasonline.org or call 956-6812800 for more information. •
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PAYING TOO MUCH FOR INSURANCE? CALL US TODAY AND FIND OUT!
Exclusive to Welcome Home RGV Photo by Eryn Reddell Wingert
Sugar Cane Field Santa Maria
Sugar-cane farming was introduced to the Rio Grande Valley in the early 1800s. Today, the Rio Grande Valley Sugar Growers, Inc., a cooperative of local farmers, produces 1.5 million tons of sugar cane from 40,000 acres across the Valley. Harvesting takes place from October through April. Extracted from the harvested sugar cane: 160,000 tons of raw sugar and 60,000 tons of blackstrap molasses, which is used to feed cattle. The remaining byproduct of sugar cane is converted to fuel to generate steam and electricity at the mill. (Source: The Rio Grande Valley Sugar Growers, Inc., rgvsugar.com.)
Program Highlights: • 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!!!
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February 10, 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.
3 $ 00 3
EDINBURG
1900 W University, Ste #8 956-378-9300
McALLEN
RS
1501 N 10th 956-687-2011
URE TOURS PPER
MISSION
$
00
2575 Griffin Pkwy, Ste #1 956-271-1006
PHARR
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.
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
www.welcomehomergv.com
•••
Welcome Home WINTER TEXAN • • • February 10, 2021 17 Bit-O-Heaven RV and Mobile Home Resort
1051 W. Bus Hwy 83 Donna, TX 78537
www.bit-o-heaven.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
Virtual Open House www.RVOpenHouse.info RV Lots, Casitas, RV Porthomes and Houses For Sale or Rent. Call to schedule an in-person showing!
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*
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
Riverside Dreamer RIVER TOURS CALL TODAY 956-581-4477 *** RESERVATIONS SUGGESTED *** Additional boat rides added as needed 1 HOUR RIVER TOUR
Wednesday ............1:00pm SENIORS Thursday ...............1:00pm $12 Friday ...................1:00pm FACE MASK Saturday................1:00pm REQUIRED
• Covered Cushion Seating • Enclosed Windows & Heating
Carol Kerr Welch, Realtor
956-900-8487
Carol@MovingWithCarol.com
$ 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
EVERY TUESDAY : HAPPY HOUR NOT OPEN TO PUBLIC
EVERY WEDNESDAY : ENTERTAINMENT
2:00 PM - 4:00 PM • OPEN TO THE PUBLIC • OUTSIDE Ice cream bars for sale/BYOB MASKS REQUIRED • THANK YOU
Feb. 10 • Tom Buller • $8.00 Singer/Guitarist
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
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. 5 • DJ dance • For Park Residents Only Mar. 10 • Sweetwater Band • $8.00 Mar. 19 • Steven May 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
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February 10, 2021 • • • Welcome
Home WINTER TEXAN • • • www.welcomehomergv.com
SAVORY TREATS
SWEET CRAVINGS
RECIPE CONNECTION
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 • • •
A
small, dip-sized slow cooker is perfect for this recipe. Look for them at thrift stores; that’s where I found mine! •
Chicken Enchilada Dip • 1 can (10.75 oz.) cream of chicken soup • 1 can (4 oz.) diced green chiles, mild or hot • 1 soup can full of real sour cream, not low-fat • 1 can chicken (white meat) • Milk, as needed • 1 can (4 oz.) diced pimiento, drained
Shred the chicken into a bowl, including any “juice” that might be with it. Add the soup and sour cream, mixing well. Drain the chiles and stir into the mixture, along with the diced pimiento. Combine well but gently. Add a few drops of milk if it seems too thick for a dip. Heat the dip in a microwave-safe bowl, at 50-percent power, for about 2 minutes, stirring after 1 minute. Spray the slow cooker crock and add the dip. Keep it warm on LOW to serve with sturdy dippers, such as corn chips. • 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
•••
Jambalaya
Submitted by The Junior League of McAllen, Inc.
Serves 12 • 2 cups uncooked white rice • 2 pounds uncooked shrimp, deveined and peeled • 1 (10 oz.) can mushrooms • 1 green bell pepper, chopped • 1 pound link sausage, sliced
• 6-7 green onions, chopped • 1 (15 oz.) can tomato sauce • ½ cup butter or margarine, melted • 1 (10 oz.) can French onion soup • 1 (10 oz.) can beef broth • 2 tablespoons Tony’s Cajun seasoning
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Lightly grease 3-quart casserole dish. Place rice on bottom. Mix all other ingredients; pour on top. Cook 1 hour and 15 minutes, uncovered. • 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.
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
•••
Welcome Home WINTER TEXAN • • • February 10, 2021 19
bon appetit! with
Executive Chef Bettina
Tolin
Baked Spinach & Artichoke Pasta
Back by popular request is a truly comforting and satisfying dish whose entire reason for living is to just make us feel better at the end of a hard day. It is the perfect marriage of everyone’s favorite hot dip, “Spinach & Artichoke” together with pasta and then baked into glorious perfection! As with any baked pasta, the trick is to cook the shells until just shy of al dente and then coat them with a sauce that seems a bit too wet, so that in the oven the pasta will tenderize, and the sauce will thicken. If you have the time, take it to caramelize the onions and add those inside as well. For a non-vegetarian approach, you could also top with some yummy crumbled bacon. Bon Appétit! • • Kosher salt • 8 ounces medium pasta shells • 2 tablespoons olive oil • 2 garlic cloves, minced • ¼ teaspoon red-pepper flakes • 10 ounces fresh baby spinach
• 1 (14-ounce) can small artichoke hearts, drained and roughly chopped • 2 cups heavy cream • 4 ounces grated Parmesan (about 1 cup) • Kosher salt, fresh grated Black pepper • 4 ounces grated mozzarella (about 1 cup)
• • •
Heat the oven to 400 degrees. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high. Lower to medium-high and cook the pasta until 2 minutes short of al dente (the pasta will finish cooking in the oven). Drain and set aside. Meanwhile, heat the oil in a large sauté pan over medium-low heat. Add the garlic and red-pepper flakes and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute, taking care not to burn the garlic. Add the spinach little by little until wilted, stirring frequently, about 3 minutes. Stir in the chopped artichokes. Stir in the cream and bring to a simmer over medium-high heat. Remove from the heat and stir in the Parmesan until melted and then carefully stir in the cooked pasta. The liquid might appear to be a bit loose, but it will thicken up as the dish bakes. Taste and season to taste with salt and pepper. Transfer the pasta mixture to a 2-quart casserole dish or to individual ramekins. Sprinkle with the mozzarella and bake until bubbling, 20 to 25 minutes. Broil until browned in spots, 1 to 2 minutes, if desired. Let cool slightly before serving.
• • • • • • •
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: Pirate's Landing Restaurant
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February 10, 2021 • • • Welcome
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