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Welcome Home WINTER TEXAN • • • October 14, 2020
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We’re just connecting the dots.
VOLUME 6 • ISSUE 1 • October 14, 2020 • • • your official connection to the rio grande valley • • •
hello FROM KRISTI
Welcome Home!
I’m
so excited for the season to begin! Even though it will likely be different than the seasons we’ve become accustomed to, we’re all in this together! Knowing that it will be different regardless of where we winter is what we need to remember this season. Here in the Rio Grande Valley, there is so much to see and do outdoors, so we can practice social distancing and still have a whole lot of fun! This season, we will highlight these activities and keep you informed on where to go and what to do! Our first stop is the National Butterfly Center in Mission. This little piece of paradise is one of my favorite places, and I hope you take the opportunity to visit! Just like our Winter-Texan friends migrate south for the winter, so do our Monarch butterflies, so the timing is perfect! Make sure to stop by their nursery to grab a few native plants to plant at your site! I look forward to seeing you out and about this season...from a distance, of course! • We’re just connecting the dots,
Kristi
THANK YOU TO OUR
2020-2021
SEASON SPONSORS
Maximino “Max” Munoz
How the National Butterfly Center Changed Max Munoz • Story and Photos by Eryn Reddell Wingert •
M
aximino “Max” Munoz grew up in the small town of McCook, Texas. He says his family was the only Hispanic family in the predominately Polish community, located northwest of Edinburg. Munoz says his father farmed land owned by former Green Bay Packers linebacker Tommy Joe Crutcher. Crutcher owned a ranch in the Rio Grande Valley and was co-owner of the Southwest Grain Company in McCook.
“Growing up, we didn’t have roses, tulips or beautiful gardens; we had brush land,” says Munoz. “If you got sick, you hated it because mom would go outside, grab a leaf, and say, ‘Chew on this.’ I hated it.” Munoz says, during his childhood, he didn’t appreciate the plants, trees, and home remedies garnered from the land. But that all changed when NATIONAL BUTTERFLY CENTER CONTINUED ON PAGE 4 >>
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October 14, 2020 • • • Welcome
Home WINTER TEXAN • • • www.welcomehomergv.com
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
UTRGV Patron of the Arts: Inspiring Arts at Your Fingertips Special to Welcome Home RGV
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
The
literary and performing arts have seen the world through many times of crisis, and that is one of the goals of the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV) Patron of the Arts program this season. With the safety of performers, staff, and the community in mind, the program is offering free, online performances through the end of 2020 and has expanded its offerings to include theatre, dance, and art events, in addition to music. Performances will premiere on specific dates and times on the Patron of the Arts YouTube channel. During premieres, Patrons will be able to chat with other audience members, and, sometimes, the artists/performers themselves by using YouTube’s live-chat feature. Videos will then be available to watch on demand after they premiere. During the month of October, Patron will offer two performances, including a mother-daughter recital featuring UTRGV faculty member Dr. Diana Seitz (violin and piano) with her daughter, Esther Seitz (cello). They will share some of their favorite selections of classical music, including pieces by Telemann, Kodaly, Gounod, and Bach. Their recital, Seitz String Duo: From Our Family to Yours, will premiere Friday, October 16, at 7 p.m. on YouTube. Later in the month, audiences will experience a world of magic and wonder as Lucero and the Giants, a comic play that features giant, Mexican-style puppets called
Weekly e-Blasts
Stacy Madden sales@welcomehomergv.com Curt James Riester curt@welcomehomergv.com
info@welcomehomergv.com
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Chris Ardis news@welcomehomergv.com
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Jenny R Carpenter artwork@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:
Social Media / Photographer mojigangas makes its way to their screens. The story is about an undocumented family in South Texas struggling to keep its spirits up in the face of extraordinary hardships. Watch as the magical puppets appear and transform the local flea market where the family works into an uplifting celebration of life. Lucero and the Giants, written by UTRGV Department of Theatre faculty member Dr. Eric Wiley, will premiere W e d n e s d a y, October 28, at 7 p.m. on YouTube. Viewers are encouraged to subscribe to the Patron of the Arts YouTube channel to ensure they receive updates about new behindthe-scenes videos and performances. They can do so by typing “UTRGV Patron of the Arts” in the YouTube search bar or by visiting bit.ly/ PatronYT and clicking on the “Subscribe” button. For questions, please send an email to patron@utrgv.edu or call 956-665-3881. •
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
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Fran Adams fran@welcomehomergv.com
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219 W. Nolana • McAllen, TX 78504
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Welcome Home WINTER TEXAN • • • October 14, 2020
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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
2020 Port Isabel Shrimp Cook-Off Goes Curbside
1601 Treasure Hills Blvd. | Harlingen, Texas 78550
Special to Welcome Home RGV
With
public health a priority, the 27th Annual Shrimp CookOff & Seafood Festival announces an exciting new format. Retooled as a five-day curbside event, the Shrimp CookOff will feature shrimp and seafood fares of participating restaurants during the first week in November. Here’s how it works:
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NOVEMBER 3 – 7: Participating restaurants will prepare cook-off-sized shrimp samples and may also offer seafood samples that can be offered for curbside pickup or dine-in enjoyment. The expansion of the schedule allows ample time to take advantage of the $5 (tax included) sample offerings from any or all of the participating restaurants. Participating restaurants will be open from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. unless otherwise noted on the ballot card. The Cook-Off is self-guided, and diners can schedule stops at their leisure. The top three professional winners will be determined by the votes of participating diners. Diners will be able to pick up ballots for People’s Choice at the Port Isabel Chamber of Commerce starting October 20 or can print the ballots from our online links and vote for their favorite starting November 3. Ballots must be turned in at the Port Isabel Chamber November 3 - 6 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. or before 6 p.m. Saturday, November 7. The top three winners will be declared Sunday, November 8, during a Facebook premier concert by The Agency. Ballots are restricted to one ballot per diner. Diners must have ordered the Shrimp Cook-Off sample or the seafood sample. Each ballot will also be entered in a drawing for a Grand Prize Gift Basket in appreciation for turning
in ballots for People’s Choice. NOVEMBER 8: Another World’s Championship Shrimp Cook-Off tradition is the legendary live performance by The Agency. For nearly two decades, The Agency has been the soundtrack for the Shrimp CookOff. Thousands have gathered to munch on shrimp delights and dance to the musical offerings of The Agency. This year’s performance will be available on Facebook (@ portisabeltx) and on the Port Isabel Chamber’s Facebook page (@ portisabelchamber). Alan Hollander and the band will be putting together a selection of crowd favorites that will be featured in the days leading up to the event and culminating with the full concert on social media Sunday, November 8. Viewers can dance and sing along and share the memory with their friends from the comfort of their homes. “Covid-19 has forced all of us to become more creative in how we live our lives,” said Port Isabel Chamber of Commerce Board Chairperson Laura Caudillo. “We wanted to continue our 27-year tradition of celebrating our outstanding seafood and to also support our local restaurants during these challenging times. The curbside concept allows everyone to participate in a safe and healthy manner, and we invite the public to enjoy this unique dining experience. With the new concept, the Chamber will literally be driving traffic to the restaurants’ front doors.” The Shrimp Cook-Off and Seafood Festival is hosted by the Port Isabel Chamber of Commerce. For more information on being a sponsor or a participating restaurant, call 956-943-2262 or email director@ portisabel.org. •
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Home WINTER TEXAN • • • www.welcomehomergv.com
>> NATIONAL BUTTERFLY CENTER CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1
he arrived at the National Butterfly Center approximately 12 years ago. Munoz’ association with the National Butterfly Center happened by chance. At the time, he was putting his business degree to use working as an accountant. Working in a cubicle for years, Munoz became overweight and developed high blood pressure and diabetes. He was miserable. Munoz says his wife, Carina - who he describes as a ‘nature person’ encouraged him to get outside and get fresh air. During one of his walks, he stopped by the nature center. A woman asked for his help with a few tasks, and Munoz obliged. After a while, he says, “I left everything behind and just started working here.” As Munoz began to spend more time at the Center, he reacquainted with the plants he knew as a child. “I started remembering that’s good for this and that’s good for that… and so on,” he shares. He recognized the native plants had a connection to the world around them. “There’s
a connection to everything, from butterflies to people.” The Center has multiple gardens that serve various purposes, from the established that readily attracts butterflies to the experimental, used for research. There’s even a garden referred to as a ‘hope garden’ because, as Munoz shares, “We ‘hope’ something will happen there.” Today, Munoz serves as the director of operations at the National Butterfly Center. He is literally half the man he was 12 years ago, having shed over 100 pounds. His job, as he puts it simply, is to make sure things get done. However, his purpose--and that of the center--go beyond just getting things done. “One thing is being able to understand what each particular plant is good for, how it’s used, when it blooms, when it doesn’t bloom, how well it does with the weather, and then informing people about it.” The perfect time to visit the National Butterfly Center, Munoz says, begins in September and runs through the spring. While nature can
How to Create a Butterfly Garden Special to Welcome Home RGV
1. Consider the size of the area. The National Butterfly Center can recommend appropriate plants based on whether you want to utilize containers or yard space. 2. Plant native host plants, such as milkweed. Butterflies lay their eggs on the host plant, which later serves as food for caterpillars. 3. Provide shelter for caterpillars to protect against predators and elements while in the chrysalis. 4. Include native nectar-source plants to feed butterflies. The National Butterfly Center can advise you on what plants to choose based on the size of your garden and the butterflies you would like to attract. Plants are available for purchase at the National Butterfly Center. •
To learn more about the National Butterfly Center,
visit the Welcome Home Rio Grande Valley YouTube channel at youtube.com,
as Curt James takes you on a tour and talks more with Max Munoz.
be unpredictable, a good time to visit, Munoz says, is prior to a cold front. “They seem to be pushed by the cold front, slowly south. Then they’ll hunker down here… As soon as you start to see a cluster of butterflies come through, you know there’s a cold front coming or a temperature change.” A visit to the National Butterfly Center can be for a few hours or an all-day excursion. In the morning, you can witness colorful birds, as butterflies bask in the rising sun, drying their wings from the morning dew. By mid-day, Munoz says, they’re everywhere. There is even a dock on the Rio Grande River where visitors
can spot shore birds, not to mention the potential to spot a bobcat, javelina, or coyote. The National Butterfly Center is not your typical attraction; it’s a true adventure. It is deliberately rustic and wild, but it does the job of providing an incredible, close-up experience with countless butterflies. To plan a day or schedule a tour, visit nationalbutterflycenter.org. Volunteer opportunities are also available. “Do what I did,” shares Munoz. “Every time I pulled a weed, I was thinking in my mind of getting rid of the bad, and I lost over a hundred pounds. I lost myself here in many ways!” •
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Welcome Home WINTER TEXAN • • • October 14, 2020
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October 14, 2020 • • • Welcome
Home WINTER TEXAN • • • www.welcomehomergv.com
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Welcome Home WINTER TEXAN • • • October 14, 2020
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Special to Welcome Home RGV
••• sp tted RGV in the
Monarch Migration S
outh Texas is a corridor to Mexico, not only for migratory birds but for butterflies, as well. The monarch butterfly migrates from Canada each fall to spend the winter in the mountains of Central Mexico. It takes three to four generations to make the journey. This monarch was spotted passing through McAllen October 5. •
A caravan of more than 20 golf carts gathered to follow the music as residents danced in their driveways and on porches. The procession paused at various intersections as James took song requests. The newly created ‘happy hour’ was organized by Victoria Palms Activity Director Lori Fanaselle. The event lasted a couple of hours and ended in a parking lot on the property. Residents listened from their carts while James continued to perform as the sun set behind a skyline of palm trees. •
by Gretchen Losi
Exclusive to Welcome Home RGV Photo by Eryn Reddell Wingert
A
new type of ‘happy-hour’ celebration emerged at local resorts this summer: Drive-by Happy Hour. During a particularly comfortable mid-August evening at Victoria Palms RV Resort in Donna, local entertainer Curt James boarded a small flatbed adorned in novelty grass and plastic pink flamingos. The trailer also carried a microphone, an amplifier, and a small generator provided by park resident John Furlong. John and Joyce Crose towed the trailer with their Margaritaville-themed golf cart through the resort streets as James sang classic hits.
I
t’s the warm welcoming smiles of neighbors. The smell of that fresh tortilla being pulled from the steaming paper. It’s the familiar exclusive greeting of the chachalacas. The feeling of that island sand on your toes and then spotting that special sea dollar. These are the moments that let you know--you’re back home in the Rio Grande Valley. It took me 33 years to find my way back to the RGV, but here I am, and I brought my husband with me. I’m that girl who moved away back in ‘87. It was quite a ride, too. I had a few twists that included over a decade at M.C.A.S. (Marine Corps Air Station) Tustin, raising four children, loving an award-winning career in journalism, finding my best friend and compelling him to marry me, and then convincing him to retire in South Texas. But I did it, Y’all! We are here in our forever home and now we plan to turn my old childhood stomping grounds into our new retirement playground. While my husband, Joe, is a newbie, my love affair with the Rio Grande Valley started back in the 80s. We did what many in Detroit
had to do and packed up and moved to where the jobs were. For us, that was Brownsville…or the Port of Brownsville, to be exact. Within two years, my entire family had followed, including grandparents, aunts, and cousins. This 11-year-old didn’t know it at the time, but my life would be changed by the Rio Grande Valley forever. It crept into my heart and never let go. ‘You can leave the Valley, but the Valley never leaves you.’ Not the food. Not the people. Not the fond memories. Over the years, life found a way of nudging my parents, cousins, and siblings to other zip codes. Thankfully, it brought me back home. I need to start making a list of all the reasons there is to love this place. There’s so much unique beauty, food, charm, history, food, tradition, culture, and food. Did I mention the food? Another perk is you become part of a cool ‘insiders’ club’ when you have roots down here. No matter where you are in the world, if you meet someone who has RGV ties, you’ll bond over your WE’RE BAAAAACK! NOW LET’S GO! CONTINUED ON PAGE 13 >>
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October 14, 2020 • • • Welcome
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Welcome Home WINTER TEXAN • • • October 14, 2020
THROUGH
9
ERYN’S LENS
Exclusive to Welcome Home RGV Photos: Eryn Reddell-Wingert
Palmview Golf Course, McAllen October 2020
The Palmview Golf Course, owned by the City of McAllen, is quite the oasis. The palm-tree-lined course is surrounded by natural, South-Texas brush. Aside from the aesthetically pleasing landscape, the course itself appeals to amateur and experienced golfers alike.
•••
Things I Have Learned While Watching by Bill Ward
T O D AY ’ S W I S D O M
“And at the end of the day, your feet should be dirty, your hair messy and your eyes sparkling.” Shanti
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
was sitting around a table having coffee with a bunch of old guys recently when the topic of electric fences came up. It seems most of the guys had a run-in with an electric fence at some time in their younger years. I remember my own experience very well. I was ducking under a fence and didn’t quite duck low enough. I touched the wire with my shoulder blade and suddenly found myself on the ground three feet out beyond the
A somewhat random and reckless look at life from a fairly old guy
A Lost Sense of Adventure
fence. My experience was actually quite tame compared to others. We had some hearty laughs as the stories were told but also realized how dangerous those things were as we heard about burns and even more serious injuries from the electric current. It occurred to me, as I listened, that we were sharing stories that few today could relate to. I’ll bet none of my kids has ever even seen an electric fence, let alone had the experience of becoming airborne from its contact. What a loss for them, to be so shielded from life’s greatest adventures. Actually, where do today’s kids get their adventures? In the 1950s and 60s, we roamed the whole countryside and town, gathering adventures wherever we found them. There were
no adults around. They must have trusted us to behave on our own. At least 80 percent of the time, that was appropriate. Somehow, we all made it, and none of us have done jail time. I fear too much of today’s adventure is found in front of a video screen. I think that is a great loss. I found a quote from the Morris Institute that seems relevant: “An adventurous approach to life is a requirement for becoming the person you’re capable of being, making your mark in the lives of others and experiencing a sense of lasting fulfillment along the way.” Maybe the adventures we gathered on our path are the reason so many of the older folks I know today are really neat people. I’m just sayin’. •
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October 14, 2020 • • • Welcome
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Welcome Home WINTER TEXAN • • • October 14, 2020 11
Virtual Get Together Special to Welcome Home RGV
October Deals on South Padre Island
Special to Welcome Home RGV
S
outh Padre Island currently has over 20 deals from our island partners. Discounts vary from accommodations to excursions, deals at retail stores, and even flights! If you’re looking to book a trip or score some amazing deals, South Padre Island has you covered. Hotel and vacation rental partners have shared deals and packages for all budgets. Some packages include 20 percent off of your stay or bedand-breakfast options. There are also affordable rates for guests who’d like to extend their stay or have a couples’ getaway. You can find deals
for medical-industry guests, retail and banking guests, and a heroes’ package (fire, EMS, law enforcement, and all active military). Don’t forget to have some fun while you’re on the island and save some money while you’re at it! You’ll find great discounts for different types of water activities like kayaking and stand-up paddle boarding. South Padre Island partners offer boat tours of the Port of Brownsville, dolphinwatch tours, eco tours, sunset cruises, and guided nearshore and offshore fishing trips. The Isla Grand Beach Resort offers a golf package
available year-round. It includes one round of golf (including a cart), range balls, and two sleeves of Isla Grand branded golf balls. New deals and packages are added to South Padre Island’s website frequently, so keep up to date at sopadre.com. Our website is a great resource for information on anything you’d like to know about South Padre Island. If you can’t find what you’re looking for, submit a contact-us form, and we’ll be sure to get back to you as soon as possible. •
Dr. Michael Sander Performing Same-Day Orthopedic Surgeries in Weslaco Special to Welcome Home RGV
W
inter Texans and Valley residents can now receive same-day knee, hip, and shoulder replacements, which allow the patient to return home the same day as the surgery. Dr. Michael Sander, orthopedic surgeon with UT Health RGV, has been performing the same-day orthopedic surgeries at Knapp Medical Center in Weslaco. Patients undergoing these surgeries come to the hospital in the morning and are discharged that afternoon. They continue to receive physical therapy at home, along with pain medication and other medications, as needed. Sander has developed protocols to enable patients who meet the right criteria to choose the option of sameday surgery. The protocols include pre-op teaching to educate the patient about what to expect before, during, and after surgery. Pain-control protocols include the use of spinal anesthesia, pain blocks, and medications to treat pain. Sander works with the anesthesia team at Knapp to treat pain and promote recovery.
Dr. Michael Sander
Following surgery, patients are helped by physical therapists and other licensed professionals with the Knapp Medical Center Rehabilitation Services Department. The therapists help get patients up to walk before they go home, including patients who receive total knee replacements and total hip replacements. During this time, same-day surgeries may be an option of choice for patients trying to minimize time spent outside the home. Winter Texans can safely undergo
various surgeries at Knapp Medical Center, as the hospital is following all COVID-19 safety precautions established by federal and state agencies. To protect the safety of patients, staff, and the community, all patients and healthcare workers are screened at the entrance of the hospital. Precautions include temperature checks, masks, social distancing, personal protection equipment (PPE), and sanitization of surfaces and equipment. Sander, a mid-Valley native, is board certified in orthopedic surgery and sports medicine by the American Board of Orthopedic Surgery. He completed a residency in orthopedic surgery at the University of Iowa Department of Orthopedics and Rehabilitation and a fellowship in orthopedic sports medicine at the University of Texas Health Science Center San Antonio. Sander’s office is located at UT Health RGV Orthopedics & Sports Medicine in the Knapp Medical Arts Building, 1315 E. 6th Street, Suite 10, in Weslaco. For more information, please consult your physician and visit the Knapp website at KnappMed.org •
T
he Winter Texan Facebook page was the place to be Thursday afternoons during the off season for live musical performances. “Winter Texan Happy Hour was created to lift spirits and maintain the Winter Texan community connection cultivated by Welcome Home RGV,” shared Kristi Collier, owner of Welcome Home RGV. Followers were invited to tune in each Thursday afternoon throughout the summer at 4:00 to enjoy Curt James singing favorites and taking requests via posted comments. “I enjoy doing the show because it allows me to connect with so many people who support what we do in the R.G.V. during the winter,” said James. Winter Texan Happy Hour was interactive, with followers engaging directly with James and other followers by posting comments and emojis during each livestream performance. The fun will continue throughout the month of October. Visit facebook. com/wintertexan Thursdays at 4:00 p.m.to watch. •
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October 14, 2020 • • • Welcome
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saving you more!
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stop sewing during the pandemic. Sewing is a great way to help you with your mental health. Texas A&M AgriLife ExtensionHidalgo County is providing virtual sewing classes through YouTube. You may view sewing tutorials by subscribing to our YouTube channel, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Hidalgo County. The agency releases videos every Tuesday. The agency provides free patterns for the month. You may pick up the patterns at our office, located at 410 N. 13th Avenue in Edinburg. Mailing option is available if your residence is further
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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
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than 15 miles away. To view upcoming classes and supply lists, please visit https:// hidalgo.agrilife.org/master-clothingvolunteers/ During the month of October, expect the following videos: • October 6 - Ghost Toy Stuffing • October 12 - Witch Wreath Hat • October 20 - Turkey Décor • October 27 - Fall Wreath In November, you can expect basket lining, finger-thumb potholder, and more. For questions, you may call 956383-1026. •
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Welcome Home WINTER TEXAN • • • October 14, 2020 13
with Chaplain Susan White
• The Path of Ministry •
Read 3 John 1-8 I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth. ~ 3 John 4
News from Pickpocket Gene Pickpocket Gene is a certified identity-theft risk-management specialist. He helps people reduce their risk of becoming a victim.
Gaius is mentioned five times in
the New Testament. He grew into a mighty man of faith under the ministry of the Apostle Paul. In Macedonia, Paul converted many from idolatry to Christianity (Acts 16:6-40). His ministry “turned the world upside down” (Acts 17:6). Paul baptized Gaius there (1 Corinthians 1:14). Gaius kept a home in Derbe (Acts 20:4), and joined Paul’s mission team (Acts 19:29). They caused an uproar in Ephesus among the silversmiths who made idols. Demetrius called a meeting of the guild. His speech stirred the crowd into a riot. The entire city was in a state of confusion. Gaius and Aristarchus were seized and held in the Great Theater. Paul wanted to rescue them, but the disciples and certain officials persuaded him to let them handle it. The town clerk was finally able to defuse and disperse the crowd. When the prisoners, including Gaius, were released, Paul embraced them, thankful that all were safe. They encouraged the church at Ephesus, then the mission team moved on (Acts 19:21-20:2). (Demetrius was converted, 3 John 12). Everywhere the mission team went, it was riot and revival, as idolatry was cast down and replaced with the worship of the One True and Living God. Gaius was a faithful and trusted member of Paul’s mission team, enduring hardship and persecution with the Apostle. He grew in grace and became skillful in the Word. Gaius helped establish the church at Corinth. Paul wrote the letter to the
Special to Welcome Home RGV
any of you are receiving scam calls daily. The thieves are after your identity and your money. They will use your personal information and assets for their gain. How can you reduce your risk? First, sign up for the Do Not Call Registry at www.DoNotCall.gov or by phone at (888)5-OptOut (888-5678688) or visit www.optoutprescreen. com. Doing so can help reduce the number of calls you receive from solicitors and scam artists. It will not stop calls from charities, political groups, or collections. The main purpose is to prevent telemarketing calls. Telephone “spoofing” can give you a false sense of security. The caller ID might read “Your bank,” “IRS,” “Social security,” “Sheriff’s office,” or “Doctor’s office.” The thieves can purchase a program to make the Caller ID look like whoever they want you to believe is calling, so never give out your personal information to someone who calls you unsolicited unless you are sure of the caller’s identity. If you are unsure, hang up immediately and call the number you have on file for the person or company. Never call the number they give you to call, and don’t call the number back that you received this initial call from. Be careful of those who want your phone number, as well. Who are scammers giving your number to? The following are a few of the most common scams:
Chaplain Susan White and her husband, Chaplain Keith White, have served over 15 years with Christian Resort Ministries in the RGV. They are currently semiretired and are enjoying time with their family. Susan is a published author and also has her own publication company, The Scribes Closet.
Romans while staying with him there (Romans 16:23). The Apostle John knew him well. The book of 3 John was written to Gaius. In those few lines, we learn a lot about the man of faith he had become. Read 3 John 1-8. John first expressed his love for Gaius, and assured him of his continued prayers for Gaius’ prosperity and health. John is joyful because of Gaius’ persistence in following the Way of Faith, and his habit of hospitality and support for missionaries who frequented the area (3 John 1-8). Tradition says that Gaius was appointed the Bishop of Pergamum by John the Apostle. Gaius, a committed believer, became a faithful and dependable team member, church planter, and Christian leader. Can we learn from his example? Let’s turn the world upside down! •
M
This week, he discusses phone scams.
The Account Deactivation or Suspension Scam: The caller will tell you that, due to suspicious activity on your (name of account), it was suspended. They can help you get it restored; they need to verify some information to make sure you are the rightful owner (like your date of birth, social security number, login ID and password, account number, etc.) Sample accounts are Social Security, PayPal, credit card, bank account, IRS, and Medicare. Grandson or Granddaughter Scam: You receive a call supposedly from your frantic grandson or granddaughter telling you he/she is in jail or was in an accident or a foreign country and robbed and need money. You are asked to immediately wire money to him/her. You Owe Money Scam: They could pretend to be a collection agency, sheriff’s office, or the IRS claiming you owe money. If you don’t pay immediately, you will be thrown in jail or your social-security benefits will be withheld. They might ask you to wire the money or buy gift cards and give them the numbers on the cards or give them your credit or debit card number. Remember, your debit card is tied directly to your bank account, and they can wipe out all of your money. Bottom line--don’t give out your personal information, especially over the phone, when you can’t be sure of who the caller is! Be aware! Be safe! And don’t become a victim! •
>> WE’RE BAAAAACK! NOW LET’S GO! CONTINUED FROM PAGE 7
secret world of raspas and resacas. And that is why, when retirement rolled around, I threw moving home to the RGV into the hat. It wasn’t a hard sell. Joe’s from New York (you’ll love him), and he fell instantly in love with the palm trees and yearround warmth of both the climate and the locals. By the time I took him to his first taqueria, he was already packing. Now that we’re unpacked and
moved in, I hope my cousins come visit for a trip down memory lane. Because as perfect as we thought it was growing up here as kids, it’s so much cooler as adults. We get to go to beverage barns. We can eat at as many taquerias as we want--as often as we want. We don’t have to sneak into museums, birding centers, and golf courses anymore. And suddenly, those hundreds of historical-marker structures and sites we never really
noticed as kids have become some of the most fascinating stops we make on our Sunday drive. There’s so much to do and explore. Even with current restrictions, our biggest challenge seems to be where to start. We plan to explore the Rio Grande Valley’s rich history from Rio Grande City to SPI, including some exciting off-the-beaten-path destinations. Locals have already given us so
many tips and ideas we can’t wait to share with readers. We look forward to tasting the many flavors the Valley has to offer. And we know we will make new friends as they share their local history, stories…and maybe a few recipes…with us. We’ve been waiting a long time for this. It’s a happy chapter in our lives. We feel extra fortunate to share it with you. Now let’s go! •
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October 14, 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! •
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Our
• • • with Sandy Olson • • •
current pandemic situation has put some entertaining on hold and other gatherings have had an extreme makeover. How in the world do you entertain/feed/water or socialize with friends and stay in sync with current requests to socially distance? Well, it fits nicely into one of my favorite ways to socialize with friends….the appetizer buffet cocktail (or mocktail) party. I am a passionate Midwestern cook and a proud Winter Texan. I have found the nibbles of choice in each of these ‘home’ areas are quite different, but the concept remains the same: • A table filled with little bits of lots of things • A stack of paper plates and napkins • One person at a time at the table • No dinner table where you can’t sit six feet apart, easily • No clusters of noshers but lots of individuals enjoying their hors d’oeuvres and beverages while observing the required spacing. This season, my Welcome Home Winter Texan writing will feature recipes that allow the reader to offer delicious food and drink, enjoy the company of others (preferably outdoors), and stay safe and healthy. We’ll start with one of my favorites, a recipe given to me by my daughter-in-law who lives in New Mexico that is so easy to make in Texas with our abundance of large, shiny, firm, and flavorful jalapeños. Enjoy! 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.
Pam’s Jalapeño Poppers This recipe is flexible, depending upon how many poppers you want to make. We’ll start with about 24, using a dozen large green jalapeños. It should serve eight people. • 1 (8 oz.) package cream cheese, softened. (Use a good brand; Philly® is always dependable.) • ½ package dry ranch dressing mix, either the name brand or a store brand • 8 slices good bacon, regular, not thick-sliced Cut the peppers in half lengthwise. Leave the stem on one of the halves; this is the tail. On the halves with the tail, clean out about half of the seeds and veins so they will have more heat; with the other halves, clean everything out, leaving just a shell. Mix the cream cheese and the ranch dressing mix, combining well. Stuff this mixture into the pepper halves, smoothing out the tops so they are flat rather than mounded. Cut each slice of bacon into thirds and lay one third on top of each pepper half. Don’t wrap the pepper; just lay the bacon flat on top. Place your poppers on a lightly sprayed cookie sheet. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. and bake for about 45 minutes. (Oven temps will vary; you want the pepper and bacon cooked through, but the bacon might not become crisp.) Test with a fork after 30 minutes, adjusting your remaining time accordingly. When serving, place those with stems (those are the hotter “Devil’s Tail Poppers”) on one plate and the milder ones on another plate. Label them so people know what they are popping into their mouths! Make more than you think you need; they will go quickly. •
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Some Like It Hot
Bean Dip
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Submitted by The Junior League of McAllen, Inc. Makes 2 quarts • 4 cups dry pinto beans • 2 cups chopped onions • 3 cloves garlic, chopped fine • 2 teaspoons ground cumin seed • 6 tablespoons bacon drippings
APPETIZING DELIGHTS
• 6 tablespoons chili powder • 1 cup margarine • ½ pound sharp cheddar cheese grated • Dash hot sauce
Cook beans with ten cups of water, onion, garlic, cumin, and bacon drippings until soft, about 3 hours. Add chili powder and salt to taste, about 3 teaspoons. Do not have beans too soupy. While still warm, mash in the margarine, cheese, and hot sauce. Beat until smooth. Serve warm in a chafing dish with tostados or corn chips. 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.
The Border Cook
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Corn and Black Bean Tortilla Tart Submitted by Randy Hoelscher, The Border Cook
Serves 4 as a main dish or 8 as an appetizer
T
his dish is very satisfying. I’d say it is comfort food. I suggest doing all the preparatory slicing and dicing before starting to cook; it makes cooking and assembly easier and more fun. • Extra virgin olive oil • 2½ cups frozen corn, thawed • 2 large Roma tomatoes, cored and diced into ¼-inch pieces • 4 scallions, sliced thin, the white and half the green stems • 2 Tbsp. fresh cilantro, diced • 1 tsp. fresh lime juice • Salt and pepper • 1 large yellow onion, chopped fine • 1 jalapeño pepper, stemmed and seeded, minced • 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced • 1 tsp. ground cumin • 1 – 15-oz. can black beans, rinsed and drained • ¾ cup vegetable broth • 4 – 10-inch flour tortillas • 6 ounces shredded cheddar cheese or shredded Mexican cheese mix (1½ cups) • 2 ounces crumbled queso fresco (1/2 cup) Adjust an oven rack to a middle position and preheat the oven to 400 degrees. Add a tablespoon of olive oil to a large non-stick skillet and heat to medium high. When hot, add the corn kernels and stir occasionally until they begin to brown and pop. Transfer the corn to a large bowl. Wipe out the frying pan with paper towels. Cool the corn slightly; then mix in the tomatoes, scallions, half of the cilantro, and the lime juice. Salt and pepper to taste. Set the corn mixture aside. Add a tablespoon of oil and the chopped onions to the skillet and cook over medium heat until softened, 3 to 5 minutes. Add the jalapeño, garlic, and cumin and cook until fragrant, 30 seconds. Add the beans and the broth and cook until the liquid is almost evaporated, 5 to 7 minutes. Move the bean mixture to a large bowl and mash with a potato masher until almost smooth. Salt and pepper to taste. To build the tart, place parchment paper on a rimless cookie sheet or an inverted rimmed sheet. Lightly brush both sides of each tortilla with olive oil. Place the first tortilla on the paper and spread one quarter of the bean mixture on the tortilla. Leave a half-inch border uncovered around the edge. Next add a quarter of the corn mixture on top of the beans. Add one quarter of the cheddar and fresh cheeses on top of the corn mixture. Repeat this procedure three more times so you have four tortillas and four layers of filling. Spread the remaining cilantro on top of the last layer. Bake 20 to 25 minutes until the cheese is melted and slightly browned. Transfer to a cutting board and cool for five minutes. Slice and serve. A pizza cutter works well for cutting the wedges of tart. • 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
•••
Welcome Home WINTER TEXAN • • • October 14, 2020 15
Harlingen Concert Association Cancels 2020-21 Concert Season
Special to Welcome Home RGV
T
he Harlingen Concert Association (HCA) Board of Directors announced September 25 the cancellation of its 2020-2021 concert season due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This includes cancellation of six evening performances this fall and winter at the Harlingen Municipal Auditorium and six educationaloutreach programs at local schools with featured artists. Harlingen Concert Association has been bringing internationally acclaimed touring artists to the Rio Grande Valley since the 1930s. This all-volunteer, nonprofit organization is committed to enriching the cultural life of the Harlingen area through live performances and hopes to do so for generations to come.
HCA already is working on plans for its 2021-2022 concert season. HCA season subscribers will receive refunds for the face value of their tickets by early November. For more information, contact Harlingen Concert Association via email at harlingenconcert@gmail.com or visit the website at HarlingenConcert. com. The Harlingen Municipal Auditorium Box Office is closed indefinitely. •
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October 14, 2020 • • • Welcome
Home WINTER TEXAN • • • www.welcomehomergv.com
��$
J{t1m,1/4w �G O L F 2701 S. Ware Rd., McAllen
2701 S. Ware Rd., McAllen
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Redeemable at Palm View Golf. One coupon per person. Valid anytime Monday-Friday, and after 12pm weekends & holidays. Not valid for league or tournament play. Price includes tax. No refunds or rainchecks once play begins. Expires 4-15-21 ~ Call 681-3444 for details
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with 1/2 cart SAVE s4.00
27015. Ware Rd., McAllen
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956.681.3444
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Redeemable at Palm View Golf. One coupon per person. Valid Everyday off 10th Tee until 8:30 am or off the 1st Tee starting at 3:00 pm. Not valid for league or tournament play. Price includes tax. No refunds or rainchecks once play begins. Expires 4-15-21 ~ Call 681-3444 for details
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9 HOLE GOLF Walking