Welcome Home Winter Texan : Vol 6 Issue 9 : December 9, 2020

www.welcomehomergv.com

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Welcome Home WINTER TEXAN • • • December 9, 2020

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We’re just connecting the dots.

VOLUME 6 • ISSUE 9 • December 9, 2020 • • • your official connection to the rio grande valley • • •

hello FROM KRISTI

A nother

week has flown by! I find it so funny that time is not slowing down, even though I have. Typically, this time of year I’m operating at full speed ahead---go, go, go...here, there, and everywhere! So how is it possible that the days are still going by so quickly?

At Welcome Home RGV, just because we’ve canceled our events doesn’t mean we have slowed down.

Quite the contrary, really. There are plenty of things to do, and since we canceled our events, there’s plenty of things to undo, as well. We’re taking this time to be strategic with what we do and, most importantly, how we spend our time.

I’m not one to really sit around and wait for things to happen, so I’ve taken this time to clean up a few things--moving out of storage units, updating databases, organizing storage closets. Doesn’t sound like that much fun, but, honestly, it’s been fantastic.

The pork tenderloin sandwich, more commonly served in the Midwest region, is a popular dish on the Riverside Club menu.

A couple two-steps to the beat in the dance hall.

The Riverside Club sits on the bank of the Rio Grande, offering beautiful views of the river and Mexico.

An Oasis Retreat on

STORY AND PHOTOS BY ERYN REDDELL WINGERT

We’re just connecting the dots,

THANK YOU TO OUR

2020-2021

SEASON SPONSORS

S

outh Texas is chock full of ‘best kept secrets,’ and Mission’s Riverside Club could easily top the list. This bar and grill, which also boasts a dance hall and outdoorevent venue, rests right on the banks of the Rio Grande in full view of Mexico’s brush land.

The restaurant offers plenty of indoor dining, and the covered outdoor patio and deck, with views of the meandering river, encourages slowing down and taking your time.

Next door, the spacious dance hall

I am hoping to knock out as many projects as I can so once this pandemic is behind us, I can concentrate on what truly matters.

Spending time with you all is high on that list! •

Kristi

the Rio Grande

The lush landscape adds to the retreat-type atmosphere of the event venue.

THE RIVERSIDE CLUB CONTINUED ON PAGE 4 >>

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December 9, 2020 • • • Welcome

Home WINTER TEXAN • • • www.welcomehomergv.com

WINTER

TEXAN • • • OF THE • • • WEEK

Welcome Home

We Winter Texans!

®

WINTER TEXAN

your official connection to the rio grande valley

Publisher

Kristi Collier kristi@welcomehomergv.com

Administration

Amie Gray agray@welcomehomergv.com Colette Brookins colie@welcomehomergv.com

Calendar Submissions!

For more information on submitting your events and activities, please email:

Event Manager

Sandy Rogers

by Rocio Villalobos

Mission Activity Director

Mindful of Residents’ Enjoyment S

andy Rogers had big ambitions to do. when she took over as activity director One thing she said residents of all at Mission’s Eldorado Acres RV Park ages enjoy are the meals served at three years ago. the Community Hall. With those on “We tried to make the Hall more pause, they are adapting in order to accessible to all people, whether still offer something for the holidays. they want to play cards or we have “We are making to-go boxes and ladies that do sewing and make serving all the guests,” she said. blankets for charity,” Rogers said. “Myself and some work campers “We have people are helping fix that range from 90, everything.”

“It’s a very good group As someone with an down to a few in their mid-50s, so we try to outgoing personality, of people from make them all happy.

Rogers finds her role different parts of the We know the older rewarding and said United States. people can’t do a lot the residents make it of running around and feel easy.

You can drive around sightseeing; that’s “It’s a very good why we have a lot of the Park, and they’ll all group of people from be waving at you games here to play. different parts of the And the younger ones, United States,” she and smiling.” myself included, we said. “You can drive all like to line dance.” around the Park, and • Sandy Rogers • Rogers moved to they’ll all be waving at the Mission resort you and smiling.” from Oklahoma five years ago to be Apart from looking out for her mom closer to her 90-year-old mother, who and neighbors, Rogers also cares for moved to the same park in 1985. a friendly 65-pound dog.

Every morning, they spend time “I spend a lot of time walking together while enjoying coffee. her around the park because she “I live right across the street from just loves the people and she wants her, so I can keep an eye on her,” she everyone to stop and pet her and talk said. “It’s very rewarding to see her to her,” she said. and spend time with her.”

While the Park’s season has slowed After her visits with her mother, down due to Winter Texans being whom everyone endearingly refers hesitant to visit this year, Rogers to as “grandma,” Rogers has a remains hopeful that the situation full schedule keeping all of the soon improves and assures the visitors residents updated on any new County they will keep safe and healthy at restrictions due to COVID-19, while Eldorado with all the measures that ensuring they still have fun activities have been implemented. •

If you have someone you’d like to nominate for Winter Texan of the Week, please visit our website, welcomehomergv.com/wintertexanoftheweek, and complete the application. We’ll be in touch with you if your nominee is selected.

Anne Marie Martin events@welcomehomergv.com

calendar@welcomehomergv.com

The deadline for submission is Mondays at 5:00pm. •

Business Development

Stacy Madden sales@welcomehomergv.com Curt James Riester curt@welcomehomergv.com

Weekly e-Blasts

Kristi’s e-Blasts are sent weekly October - March to our subscribers.

Find out what’s happening across the Valley. These e-Blasts include helpful links and fliers for “Featured Events.” Sign up today at:

Travel Division

Kristy Meyer travel@welcomehomergv.com Stella Riester stella@welcomehomergv.com

info@welcomehomergv.com

Accounting

Follow Us

Anna Talbert accounting@welcomehomergv.com

on Social Media!

Editor

Chris Ardis news@welcomehomergv.com

Graphic Design

Welcome Home RGV has several ways to join the action on social media.

Our WHRGV Facebook page is dedicated to community events and information that will appeal to people of all ages. Our Winter Texan page is more specific to our Winter Texan target market. Finally, our latest addition is our Winter Texans RGV group. Member parks and business partners can send event fliers to us at:

Jenny R Carpenter artwork@welcomehomergv.com

Social Media / Photographer Eryn Reddell-Wingert eryn@welcomehomergv.com

Promotional Division

Elizabeth Seal elizabeth@welcomehomergv.com Sarah Scott sarah@welcomehomergv.com Sabina Adames sabina@welcomehomergv.com

news@welcomehomergv.com

Perks for Partners! •

www.facebook.com @whrgv @wintertexan www.facebook.com/groups/wintertexansrgv

Activity Coordinator

Fran Adams fran@welcomehomergv.com

www.youtube.com Find on YouTube Channel “Welcome Home Rio Grande Valley”

1st Responder Coordinator Rita Huether rita@welcomehomergv.com

www.instagram.com @welcomehomergv @wintertexans

Logistics

www.twitter.com @welcomehomergv

Tom Stocker tgstocker@gmail.com

Welcome Home

®

rio grande valley

219 W. Nolana • McAllen, TX 78504

956-687-5115

Check out our website! www.welcomehomergv.com •••

© Copyright 2020 Welcome Home, Rio Grande Valley, LLC. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any electronic means without written permission from Welcome Home, Rio Grande Valley, LLC.

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Welcome Home WINTER TEXAN • • • December 9, 2020

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he trails of Quinta Mazatlán in McAllen will be lined with thousands of candle luminarias to celebrate the winter holidays around the world.

Presented by SpawGlass, ILLUMINA Fest 2020 takes place December 16 - 19 from 6:00 to 9:30 p.m. Tickets go fast and can only be purchased online at www.ticketleap.com; search for Quinta Mazatlán.

ILLUMINA Fest 2020 will feature over 30 art installations, sharing the light of the world with you and your family. The outdoor exhibits celebrate Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, Chinese New Year, A Native-American Tipi Village, The Wild West, Nature’s Natural Sculptures, Winter Solstice, and Wildlife.

There will be holiday music and entertainment along the illuminated trail.

“Illumina Fest is a great way to unite our community and celebrate family, health, and conservation,” said Colleen Hook, director of Quinta Mazatlán.

“The City of McAllen is most grateful to SpawGlass for powering this event, along with the amazing support from Megamorphosis Architects & Interior Design,

Renoworks, Zerimar Lighting Solutions, Staggs Welding, South Texas Pen Works, Charming Picnics, Douglas Clark, Jaime Villarreal, Bear Clan, Tenzo, and many volunteers.

Bring your family to this premier winter event along a half-mile trail at Quinta Mazatlán, designed to be touch-free. Wear comfortable shoes, as the approximately 45-minute experience takes place on a crushed-gravel trail through the woods. Guests are asked to keep in small groups, wear masks, and practice social distancing.

Upon completion of the trail, families will leave the park in order to allow for the next group of visitors.

T ickets must be purchased in advance online at Ticketleap for $5 per person. Children two years old and under are free. For more information, please call Quinta Mazatlán at 956-681-3370 and follow us on social media. •

It has been said that innovation is the mother of modern medicine. Every day new and exciting treatments and technologies keep the U.S. leading the world in health care. In dermatology, we have seen the same progress as new and better treatments become available in the treatment of skin cancer.

SRT is a doctor and patient friendly treatment that requires no anesthetic, cutting, or stitching. It leaves minimal scarring and no disfigurement. With a cure rate of over 95%, it compares favorably to Moh’s surgery.

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>> THE RIVERSIDE CLUB

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

speeds things up just a bit, with live music inviting visitors to get to two-stepping. Paver walkways, a large gazebo, and a quaint pergola adorn the open outdoor area that serves as the backdrop for milestone celebrations. But this unique spot wasn’t always a lush, laidback retreat.

Owners Johnny and Jennifer Hart had only been married a few years when Johnny brought Jennifer down to the original ramshackle building-where he used to hang out with his buddies--and told her he wanted to lease the place. Jennifer says she thought to herself, “Oh my! I’m married to a lunatic! This guy is crazy.” But, she says, Johnny had a vision. So, in addition to their fulltime jobs and Jennifer’s college workload, they took on the operation.

Initially, the simple establishment had a pool table and a jukebox and only served beer…until customers suggested they serve food--in particular, pork tenderloin.

“A lot of our success is the tenderloins,” Jennifer says. She’s

Jennifer and Johnny Hart, owners of the Riverside Club in Mission.

referring to the Riverside Club’s signature dish, the pork-tenderloin sandwich, which consists of a burger bun dwarfed by a large, breaded and fried pork cutlet.

Jennifer credits a Winter Texan couple from Iowa, Dwight and Edna Colliver, with introducing the pork

tenderloin sandwich, a dish more commonly known in Midwestern states, to the menu. “We’re very grateful for them. It really helped us get the business going.”

Kathy Tonn of Minnesota and her husband, Pierre Tessier of Quebec, really enjoy bringing friends to the

Riverside Club. Having just finished lunch on the patio, Tonn raves about the sandwich, and readily shares a life hack, if you will, on how to manage the meal. “I fold it in half; that way I can get more of it in the bun!”

The menu isn’t the only draw for the Converted Texan couple, Tessier says. “The atmosphere and the closeness to the river--it’s kind of exotic to say, ‘I’m sitting here looking at Mexico right on the other side.’”

The Harts offer more than a view of the Rio Grande. They also provide tours up and down on the Riverside Dreamer, a custom-built, 49-cushioned-seat, 55-foot pontoon boat. Johnny serves as captain and tour guide on the ventures, sharing knowledge of the river and the land on both sides.

The Harts’ hard work in the years since Johnny shared his vision for the Riverside Club with Jennifer have produced a relaxing, whileaway-the-hours retreat says Tessier.

“We love coming to the Riverside Club; it’s the best place around!” •

The Riverside Club is located at 214 E. Chimney Road in Mission.

Visit ontheriver.net or call 956-581-1033 for information on events and river tours.

The restaurant deck overlooks the river.

Johnny Hart steers the Riverside Dreamer up the Rio Grande

Dancing is a popular pastime at the Riverside Club

The outdoor area serves as an event venue for weddings and celebrations. The dance hall is pictured in the background.

Learn more about the Riverside Club by visiting the

Welcome Home Rio Grande Valley

Fishermen cruise the Rio Grande, just off the deck of the Club.

YouTube channel.

www.welcomehomergv.com

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Welcome Home WINTER TEXAN • • • December 9, 2020

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December 9, 2020 • • • Welcome

Home WINTER TEXAN • • • www.welcomehomergv.com

Voluntourism:

Seven Ways to Give Back to South Padre Island Special to Welcome Home RGV

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oluntourism - a form of tourism in which travelers participate in voluntary work, typically for a charity.

Whether you’re on the Island for a day, a week, or a month, there are several ways you can become more interconnected with the community and the wildlife that call South Padre Island home.

Volunteers are the beating heart of the Island’s conservation efforts and public works. Without the work and dedication of volunteers, many of the organizations that protect endangered wildlife and improve the quality of life on the Island wouldn’t be able to do what they do. We’ve gathered some opportunities for you to be a “voluntourist” on South Padre Island.

South Padre Island Birding, Nature Center and Alligator Sanctuary The South Padre Island Birding, Nature Center and Alligator Sanctuary is one of nine World Birding Center sites in the Rio Grande Valley. The Center strives to provide excellent birding and educational opportunities, engaging tours, and interactive learning about birds and other living creatures native to the area. The Center’s mission is to educate the public about the birds of South Padre Island and its environs: the flora, fauna, and natural environment of South Padre Island and the Laguna Madre Coastal area, with an emphasis on conservation and environmental awareness.

Like many nonprofit organizations, the Center depends on volunteers for many of its key functions, including tour guides, bilingual interpreters, and social media. If you’re unable to volunteer but still want to help, you can buy an annual pass or become a supporting member.

Coastal Studies Lab For anyone looking to go the “extra

mile” and preserve the wildlife of the Gulf of Mexico, consider volunteering with The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV) Coastal Studies Lab. UTRGV works toward preserving, understanding, and caring for marine life in the Gulf of Mexico. To that end, researchers and students look at all aspects of marine life, from the condition of the beaches to the creation of artificial reefs in Isla Blanca Park.

Friends of RGV Reef at South Padre Island Fishing is a big deal on the Island, but all of the wonderful fish need time and space to grow. Friends of RGV Reef at South Padre Island is working to create a self-sustaining artificial reef. The artificial reef covers 1650 acres and is the largest artificial reef off the coast of Texas.

The organization is doing some wonderful things and is looking for volunteers to help their vision come to fruition. Visit their website (www. rgvreef.org) to find out how you can help.

Friends of Animal Rescue As a no-kill shelter, Friends of Animal Rescue works toward finding a home for each and every animal that comes through their doors.

Friends of Animal Rescue serves the Island community in many ways, including reuniting lost pets with residents and tourists, adopting out the homeless and unclaimed pets, reducing the feral cat population and the spread of disease through a community-cats program (spay/ neuter and vaccinate), and caring for local wildlife.

There are many ways to lend a helping hand to Friends of Animal Rescue. For hands-on work, apply to volunteer. Volunteers help with dog VOLUNTOURISM: SPI CONTINUED ON PAGE 13 >>

www.welcomehomergv.com

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Welcome Home WINTER TEXAN • • • December 9, 2020

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Symphony Holiday Concert to be Performed Live and Online

All are invited to celebrate the season through music at the live, in-person event or by viewing the concert online and on television.

Special to Welcome Home RGV

The

Valley Symphony Orchestra is pleased to announce that its annual holiday concert, A Touch of Frost, will continue in 2020 amidst restrictions imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic. The Symphony will provide three ways for patrons in the Rio Grande Valley and beyond to enjoy this holiday tradition, made possible through support from Frost, Thurmond Eye Associates, Windswept Stables, and more.

Wednesday, December 16, at 7:30 pm, the Symphony will present its first live concert in more than 10 months. Tickets are on sale now for the A Touch of Frost Chamber Concert, a program of seasonal favorites to be performed by the VSO Holiday Brass Quintet, at the Basilica of Our Lady of San Juan del Valle National Shrine. Seating is extremely limited, and tickets may be purchased in advance only.

This concert will enforce all health and safety protocols and social distancing will be maintained at all times.

The 40-minute live concert of classic and jazzy holiday favorites will feature “Sleigh Ride,” “Feliz Navidad,” “Carol of the Bells,” “Joy to the World,” and more. The

Holiday Brass Quintet members are Jared Broussard, first trumpet, Bryan Morrell, second trumpet, Barbara Keller, French horn, Benjamin Coy, trombone, and Scott Roeder, tuba.

They are joined by percussionist Jorge Peña.

Friday, December 18, the VSO will premiere the online version of A Touch of Frost on Facebook at www.facebook.com/valleysymphony.

For this concert, the Holiday Brass will be joined by VSO Harpist Delaine Leonard, who will perform

“Interlude” from Benjamin Britten’s A Feast of Carols, along with seasonal tunes, such as “What Child is This?”

“We Three Kings,” and more.

Finally, Sunday December 20, KRGV Channel 5 will broadcast the online concert once again for all to enjoy on television at 11:00 am.

“We are delighted to bring A Touch of Frost to the community this year, when we are all in need of some holiday cheer,” said Katy Coy, VSO executive director. “Now friends and family can plan to join us in whatever way is right for them and enjoy our beloved musical tradition in a year that has been anything but traditional.”

Tickets for the in-person December 16 Chamber Concert are on sale now at www.valleyorchestra.org. They can be purchased in advance only, and patrons should note that all public health protocols, including mask wearing, will be followed at the event.

More information on these events and artists and supporting the Valley Symphony Orchestra can be found at valleyorchestra.org or by calling the VSO office Monday - Friday, 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. at 956-6611615. •

Making Acacia Great Again Special to Welcome Home RGV

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cacia RV & MH Park in Alamo has a new owner this season. This is an exciting time for us in the Park, with updates taking place and a refreshing get-it-done attitude.

With Timothy Wade, Park owner, and Cindy Aguilar, Park manager, teaming up, they are working on “Making Acacia Great Again.”

Wade and Aguilar are updating the Clubhouse and have many other projects on the table to make this “Small Community…Big Home” the destination to visit. This is an adult-only park with a combination of Winter Texans, Converted Texans, and RGV residents. The Acacia team hopes to see visitors checking out the updates. •

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Welcome Home WINTER TEXAN • • • December 9, 2020

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ERYN’S LENS Exclusive to Welcome Home RGV Photos: Eryn Reddell-Wingert

Monarch and Queen Caterpillars November 2020

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f you plant it, they will come! Butterfly weed specifically attracts Monarch butterflies to South Texas gardens as they migrate from Canada to Mexico in the fall and then back in the spring. The butterflies deposit eggs under the leaves. Later, the caterpillars feed off the plant. Queen butterflies are also drawn to the plant that blooms in various shades. The caterpillars for both species look very similar; the difference is the Monarch caterpillar has three pairs of tentacles, while the Queen has two. •

Stella’s Sights are on 105 Special to Welcome Home RGV

This is a story about one of the most wonderful people many of us at Victoria Palms Resort have come to love and admire. This story is about Stella Jobe, who celebrated a very special birthday November 18------her 100th!

Stella now wants to talk to all of us (published in the VPR newsletter November 15, 2020): Let me introduce myself first as being a long-time resident of Victoria Palms Resort. In 1986, Don and I had been considering, “Where do we want to spend our winters?” We then came to the Rio Grande Valley to visit friends who were staying at Winter Ranch.

They introduced us to VPR, and we fell in love with this place immediately. We stayed in the suites our first year, then bought our Park Model in 1988 and have been at the Manchester Avenue lot all these years. We did sell it earlier this year. Yes, there have been many changes during these 34 years.

COVID will not let us come back to VPR this season, so next season, we will just stay at the suites. I have been blessed to have so many friends at VPR. As many of you know, I am in one of the card rooms six nights a week. I really like the 65 game. My friends kid me a lot when I win four or five rounds.

I also play other card games like 31,

500, euchre and double pinochle. Don and I like to play Bingo on Monday nights. I also have really enjoyed the craft sales, where I used to sell antique jewelry.

I was born November 18, 1920, in Avoca, Pennsylvania (near Scranton). I have three sisters; two have deceased, and my other sister will soon be 102 years old (so I am the youngster in my family)!! My mother died when I was nine years old. My father then married a lady who already had six kids. He and my stepmother then had three kids, a boy and twin girls. Guessing that would be called a “blended” family these days? I got married when I was 16 years old and had my first child when I was 17. I have three kids (well, my daughter is 83 and my boys are 79 and 78). I have 10 grandchildren, 14 great- grandchildren and nine greatgreat-grandchildren. I now live in Lake Lotawana, Missouri (near Kansas City) with my husband of 43 years, Don. I started grade school at the age of six. I remember very well my first day of school. My mother had made a very beautiful dress for me. My teacher asked me to come to the front of the class and model it. I went to school only through the eighth grade. I did not have transportation to go to a high school

VPR’s Star of the Century at a 100th-birthday celebration party last March at Victoria Palms Resort.

(unless I traveled with the milkman to school in the morning). That may have been OK, but I did not have a ride back home in the evening. I was also needed on the farm to milk the cows and do other chores, even on very cold days.

I remember very well the metal pail between my legs as I milked the cows.

What is one of my earliest memories?

When we were young, a section of our home was a grocery store. When our

mother went to work there and it was close to Christmas, we would sneak to the room with the Christmas tree and play with the toys; we never got caught!!

I have been asked what my secret is to longevity and good health. Well, I have never smoked, nor do I drink any form of liquor. I sleep well--usually CELEBRATING STELLA CONTINUED ON PAGE 14 >>

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December 9, 2020 • • • Welcome

Home WINTER TEXAN • • • www.welcomehomergv.com

New Internal-Medicine Clinic Opens in Weslaco Special to Welcome Home RGV

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new internal-medicine clinic has opened in Weslaco and is accepting appointments from new patients, including geriatric and other adult patients.

The UT Health RGV Internal Medicine clinical site at Knapp Medical Center is now open in the Knapp Medical Plaza building at 1330 E. 6th Street, Suite 105, adjacent to the north side of the hospital in Weslaco.

Physicians are currently available to see patients at the new clinic Monday through Thursday afternoons from 1 to 5 p.m. The Clinic office is open to help patients with prescription refills, insurance verification, and other needs Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Patients may be seen by internalmedicine physician residents with the UTRGV Internal Medicine Residency Program at Knapp Medical Center.

The physician residents are under the supervision of board-certified internal-medicine physicians, including Dr. Timothy Heath, program director of the UTRGV Internal Medicine Residency Program at Knapp, and Dr. Fatimah Bello, associate program director.

The physicians can help patients manage chronic conditions, such

• • • sp tted RGV in the

Exclusive to Welcome Home RGV Photo by Eryn Reddell Wingert

Colossal Head 8 McAllen

The Colossal Head 8 is positioned on the grounds of the International Museum of Art & Science in McAllen. The sculpture is a replica of an Olmec head. According to the informational plaque next to the statue, the Olmec were an ancient, Pre-Colombian civilization from the Gulf Coast region of Mexico. Seventeen Olmec heads have been discovered in Mexico. The original Colossal Head 8 is on permanent exhibit at the Museum of Anthropology at Xalapa, Veracruz, Mexico. This piece was donated to the City of McAllen by the governor of Veracruz in 2010. • Dr. Timothy Heath

as diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, asthma, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), as well as treat a broad spectrum of internalmedicine conditions and help them with wellness care and addressing obesity. Physicians can also provide hospital care if the patient needs to be admitted to the hospital.

The Clinic features five exam rooms. The Clinic accepts Medicare, Medicaid, and most insurance plans.

To make an appointment or for more information, call 956-296-7710. •

www.welcomehomergv.com

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Welcome Home WINTER TEXAN • • • December 9, 2020 11

Get Moving with AARP Tai Chi Classes

by Evlin De La Rosa, AARP Texas

W

e at AARP know that taking care of your physical and mental health is essential for your wellbeing. Implementing exercise into your lifestyle is one way to achieve good health, and it is easier than you think. The best part is that you do not have to leave your home to get a good workout. AARP Texas offers free virtual events that will get you up and moving. If you are in the mood to try something new, join our virtual tai chi classes in English and Spanish.

Our virtual tai chi classes are the perfect start to get your body moving. tai chi is a graceful form of exercise that involves a series of movements performed in a slow, focused manner and accompanied by deep breathing. It is a gentle form of physical activity and stretching.

Each posture flows into the next, ensuring your body is in constant motion. Tai chi is also low impact and puts minimal stress on muscles and joints. This makes it generally safe for all ages and fitness levels.

Since tai chi is a low-impact

exercise, it may be especially suitable if you are an older adult who otherwise may not exercise. It can also have a positive impact on your overall health. Tai chi benefits include sleep enhancement, immune-system improvement, lower blood pressure, some relief for joint pain, and much more.

AARP Texas is committed to helping people take control of their health as they age by providing tools, resources, and information to entertain, inspire, educate, stimulate, engage, and activate.

We strive to create an environment where people in our community can lead their healthiest lives possible in mind, body, and spirit.

Healthy living is about making small changes to your everyday routine. That is why AARP brings these free events to you to participate in the comfort of your home. We strive to improve your well-being in any way possible.

To experience an AARP tai chi class, visit aarp.org/rgv and click on the links in the story. •

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Welcome Home WINTER TEXAN • • • December 9, 2020 13

Travel Tips Before You “Take Off” This Holiday Season McAllen International Airport shares tips and reminders when traveling by air this holiday season Special to Welcome Home RGV

P

rior to arriving at McAllen International Airport (MFE), be sure to check the safety guidelines for the destination that will be visited, including hotel of choice or accommodations. If traveling to an international destination, visit the United States Department of State website (https://travel.state. gov/content/travel/en/internationaltravel.html) for the most up-to-date information. For domestic travel, be sure to visit the official website of the state where you will be traveling for the latest health-and-safety guidelines in that community.

For travel during this pandemic, airline partners have implemented increased opportunities for

contactless service, including self-check-in kiosks and free, downloadable apps to connect travelers directly with the airline in real time while providing airline and flight information at one’s fingertips.

Some examples of airline app tools include booking flights, completing the pre-boarding registration process, access to flight status, and current airline policies, including mask requirements.

“Upon arrival at McAllen International Airport, passengers will notice some changes throughout the terminal. MFE is committed to following strict industry standards and has gone above and beyond to help ease travelers’ concerns for

their health and safety by adding enhanced and more frequent cleaning procedures, especially in “high-touch” or frequently visited areas,” said Elizabeth Suarez, aviation director for MFE. Additionally, strategically placed disinfecting-wipe stations--such as in the baggage claim area and security checkpoints--conveniently located hand-sanitizer dispensers, easy-tosee social-distancing chair-and-floor markings, clear and informative safety reminders displayed on LED screens throughout the airport, as well as CDC announcements in both English and Spanish, reminding travelers of best practices to stay safe, can be found throughout MFE, all part of the effort to help keep passengers healthy, safe, and informed.

As an added layer of safety, convenience, and courtesy for

>> VOLUNTOURISM: SPI CONTINUED FROM PAGE 6

walking, socializing cats, cleaning, sorting donations, and helping at special events.

Donations are always welcome, both financially and in the form of gently used clothing, shoes, jewelry, home goods, and various other things. The resale shop at the front of the shelter, Rescue ME Resale, sells the donated items, and all of the proceeds go to the care of the lost and homeless animals. Of course, the best way to lend a helping hand is to adopt a fur baby of your very own and give it a loving home.

Sea Turtle Inc. A nonprofit organization rescuing and protecting marine turtles on the island for more than 30 years, Sea Turtle Inc. assists the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service in patrolling beaches to look for and protect nesting sea turtles. South Padre Island is a nesting ground to the world’s most endangered sea turtle, the Kemp’s Ridley. Sea Turtle Inc. provides the Kemp’s Ridley and other sea turtles with medical and rehabilitation care to return them to the wild. The facility also offers visitors up-closeand-personal views of local marine life, as well as educational programs, presentations, and guided tours.

If you’re going to be in the area for a while, consider volunteering at Sea Turtle Inc. Volunteers get the chance to learn about, and work with, sea turtles. This is perfect for a Winter Texan who is here for three months or more at a time.

If you can’t give your time, consider giving a donation. Sea Turtle Inc.

depends on donations to fund their mission, and your donations directly benefit sea turtles and help to educate the public.

Keep South Padre Island Beautiful The mission of the Keep South Padre Island Beautiful program is to educate and engage individuals and businesses to take responsibility for improving the community’s environment. Their vision statement is to make South Padre Island a clean, beautiful environment in which to live, work, and visit.

Whether you’re here for a day, a week or a season, you can do your part to help keep South Padre Island beautiful.

Recycle The Environmental Health Services Department, in conjunction with Allied Waste Services, provides a drop-off location for recycling of household items once a week--and one time a month for brush. The City recycling hours are every Saturday from 8:00 to 11:00 a.m. at 4501 Padre Boulevard (Community Center). The phone number is 956761-8123.

Take Part in a Beach Clean-Up South Padre Island is committed to preserving and restoring the local beaches to maintain the quality of life and to keep the environment safe for wildlife. Trash is the cause of many of the injuries and diseases sea turtles and other wildlife in the area sustain. Help us keep the beaches and Gulf of Mexico clean

and safe by taking part in a beach clean-up. You can always do your part by making sure you clean up your own area and picking up trash you may see along the beach. If you want to get more involved, you can reach out to the South Padre Island Shoreline Department about organizing a clean-up. •

travelers, MFE has also added three cell-phone and/or tablet charging stations, each with eight lockers, that use UV-C to sanitize electronics while charging. In addition, please remember to visit the TSA website (https://www.tsa.gov/coronavirus) for the latest updates for checkpoint procedures and information, such as permitted sizes of handsanitizer containers and wipes, as well as the inspection processes of identification documents and other information.

McAllen International Airport and its partners work to maintain the highest standards of hygiene and cleanliness to help make air travel safe for all travelers. MFE wishes the entire community and passengers safe travels this holiday season.

For more information, visit mcallenairport.com and follow us on social media @McAllenAirport. •

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December 9, 2020 • • • Welcome

Home WINTER TEXAN • • • www.welcomehomergv.com

>> CELEBRATING STELLA CONTINUED FROM PAGE 9 from about 10:30 and wake about birthday? I told my kids I do not need 6:30; gosh, I have things to do! We eat a thing! Well, two weeks ago, this truck a good breakfast. I still prepare most comes to our house, and a 65” TV is of our dinners, always with some meat unloaded and installed. The kids had to and vegetables. Before COVID, I stayed go out and buy a new stand for it, too, busy with shopping and volunteering as the one I had was not large enough. for multiple causes. I really miss doing So now Don can watch the football those fun things these days. games on a really big TV. Do I get stressed out? Sometimes. I have already had one great Then I go to my record player and play celebration of my 100th. The group country-and-western music. Don knows picture shown is a party at VPR he is in trouble if I start to play the March 13, 2020…yes, the infamous music. I like to spend an hour each day that the Resort had to close morning with a cup of coffee and plan down all activities because of the my day. pandemic. During the party, organized Some advice for the younger people: by Pennie Wilhelm and Ann Marie Try not to drink or smoke, and, for sure, Gross, management came in and said, stay in school and get a good education. “Shut it down!” This week, I will be Among the regrets that I have is celebrating my birthday with just my that I was not able to attend more family members--no big-time deal at years of school. Another thing that I this time. Maybe when Don and I come really wished I could have done is to back in 2021, we can have another go to Poland and learn more about party with our VPR family!! my ancestors and maybe see some of I really appreciate this opportunity them. to talk with all of you. Be safe! Now I There have been many inventions am really looking forward to my 105th during these 100 years, but the one that birthday. stands out most to me is the “inside Love you all, bathroom.” That changed our lives for Stella sure!! Another is the microwave oven, and, of course, the cell phone. If I did VPR note: This story is a collaboration not have my cell phone these days, I between Stella, Martha and Larry could not go to the doctors as I have to Schmitt, and Pennie Wilhelm. sit in the car and await the call so I can Photos and other input were provided then go into the office.

by Pennie and Paul and Louise What do I want for my 100th Mahowald. •

Ann Marie Gross, far left, and Pennie Wilhelm, back row far right, hosted Stella, her daughter-in-law Patricia Alberts and some of Stella’s friends March 13, 2020.

Louise and Paul Mahowald are with Stella most nights at the 65 card game, where she is a frequent winner. (She will be ready to play again next season.)

The birthday girl is already so sweet, but what’s a birthday—especially a 100th birthday—without cake?

www.welcomehomergv.com

•••

Welcome Home WINTER TEXAN • • • December 9, 2020 15

7th Annual Arts Festival: Celebrating Education and the Arts December 12 in McAllen

• • • Exclusive to Welcome Home RGV

Green Gate Grove Palmview, Texas

Special to Welcome Home RGV

W

e welcome the community to join us as we celebrate our 7th Annual A Season of Hope Arts Festival at McAllen’s Art Village on Main.

Although this year will be different, we have prepared to provide a safe and cheerful experience, with masks being required during the festival and hand sanitizer readily available at the event.

The in-person portion of the festivities will be held December 12 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. All are welcome to visit our courtyard at Art Village on Main, where local artists will showcase their work. Shop at the assortment of professional artists’ booths as they exhibit and sell their outstanding variety of artisan jewelry, paintings, photographs, sculptures, and other media. Music will be provided by local ensemble 2C41 during this time, as attendees enjoy both indoor and outdoor vendor booths. Local food vendors, La Eloteca snack bar and Atypical Coffee cart, will offer food and drinks for sale in the Art Village on Main courtyard during the festival, as well.

Don’t miss the demonstration!

UTRGV Ceramic Org will be joining

us for the first time, throwing clay at the wheel during the festival, as well as selling their handmade wares.

Also unique to this year’s festival will be a virtual juried exhibition

by McAllen ISD students in grades K-12. This online exhibition will be available for viewing December 12 at 6 p.m. at mcallenisd.org.

The 7th Annual A Season of Hope Arts Festival, a McAllen holiday tradition, celebrates visual- and performing-arts education in the Rio Grande Valley and encourages young people in our community to explore and appreciate the arts.

Proceeds from the professional artists’ application fee and the selected artists’ booth fees provide scholarships for 12 students.

Six high-school and six middleschool students will be awarded a scholarship in one of the six categories: drawing, mixed media, painting, printmaking, photography, digital art, and 3-D. This scholarship was made possible by Lone Star National Bank and exhibiting artists.

For further information about A Season of Hope Arts Festival, contact Yoli Cantú at 956-687-8682 . •

CAPTURES

November 2020

Photos by Ron Kowalczyk

As winter approaches, the Valley looks more like the dawn of spring this time of year.

Ron Kowalczyk shares the beautiful flowers and shrubs, in full bloom, around his yard and neighborhood at Green Gate Grove in Palmview. •

16

December 9, 2020 • • • Welcome

Home WINTER TEXAN • • • www.welcomehomergv.com

www.welcomehomergv.com

•••

Welcome Home WINTER TEXAN • • • December 9, 2020 17

Port Isabel Hometown Christmas Parade Set for December 12 Special to Welcome Home RGV

Marlene Mendez accepts a quilt from Nancy Herberholz.

Ron Herberholz with items to be packed for Hugs for Soldiers.

FCRRV Winter Texans Remember Veterans and Soldiers Special to Welcome Home RGV

A

s in past years, prior to Thanksgiving and Christmas, the Family Camper and RVers Winter Texan Chapter, under the leadership of Ron and Nancy Herberholz, organized a card-and-gift-gathering mission for the Alfredo Gonzales Texas State Veterans Home in the Rio Grande Valley.

They took nearly 300 thankyou cards to the Veterans Home November 10 and 11. Ilene Johnson and her group at San Juan Gardens made lap blankets, wheelchair and walker covers, and pouches.

R&N Enterprises at the Main Place Indoor Market in McAllen served as the gathering point and donated several military caps. Winter Texan president, Tim Zich, donated 100

•••

new stuffed animals, and others donated popcorn, socks, and other useful items.

This was the first time the Home’s director, Marlene Mendez, could accept anything for the veterans since March, due to COVID-19 restrictions. The delivery was accepted at the door, and the Veterans appreciated the items.

The other part of the ongoing project is part of a national program called Hugs for Soldiers. Packages are sent to deployed military men and women on the front lines.

Boxes contain Christmas cards, snacks, socks, personal-care items, Christmas decorations, and other items. They were donated by Winter Texans, as well as local residents. •

T

he City of Port Isabel will kick off the 2020 holiday season with its 13th Annual Hometown Christmas Holiday Parade Saturday, December 12.

Participants and spectators will be asked to follow all COVID-19 safety precautions for this event. Attendees should socially distance themselves.

Float participants will be asked to keep their numbers to a minimum so they may socially distance themselves on parade floats.

Staging for the parade will take place at 4:30 p.m. in front of the Laguna Madre Youth Center on Port Road. The parade will begin at 6:00 p.m. The parade route will head east on Queen Isabella Boulevard (Hwy. 100) and end at the Port Isabel Events & Cultural Center (309 E. Railroad Avenue).

Parade applications must be submitted by Friday, December 11.

Any application received after that

Things I Have Learned While Watching

by Bill Ward

T O D AY ’ S W I S D O M “The scale of the mess we leave behind is proportionate to the level of respect we have for others.”

Stewart Stafford

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

M

y wife and I enjoy a good walk most days. Living in a small town means our path usually leads out of town, along one of the county roads.

Walking along the road allows us to make some interesting observations on the contents of the ditches.

We were recently out, and I noticed a small bottle in the grass that I had not seen before. As we walked the next 100 feet or so, I kept seeing more of the same bottle. Within that distance,

date will be inserted at the end of the parade line-up in the order it was received.

Parade line-up begins at 4:30 p.m. There will be cash prizes for 1st and 2nd place. Winners will be notified and announced on social media. Awards can be picked up at Port Isabel City Hall beginning Monday, December 14.

Applications can be mailed to 305 E. Maxan Street, Port Isabel, TX 78578, emailed to salcocer@copitx. com or faxed to 956-943-2029.

Applications can also be dropped off at the Port Isabel City Hall (305 E. Maxan Street). For more information, call 956-943-2682.

The City of Port Isabel’s Public Works Department will also be decorating the Highway 100 medians with festive holiday lights and more. A longtime tradition, the City of Port Isabel adds new and exciting features each year. • A somewhat random and reckless look at life from a fairly old guy

A Ditch Full of Whisky Bottles

I counted eight, and that without inspecting further down in the grass.

I finally picked one up and noted that it had once contained Fireball cinnamon whisky. Evidently, we have a connoisseur of Fireball whisky living along that road who doesn’t want the bottle found at home.

As I thought about the legacy that person is leaving, it occurred to me that we all leave legacies as we pass through life. Some of them are loud and visible, the stuff we did in our public life and profession and in our families. These include our accomplishments and our impact on others--all the stuff they will say about us at our funeral.

However, some of our legacy is quiet, not so visible, our activity done outside of public view. I think these can be as profound as the loud ones.

The fellow who is leaving this trail of bottles in the ditch is acting within the quiet and invisible realm. (I assume it is a fellow because the bottle reads, “A kick of red-hot cinnamon, burns like h….” What lady would enjoy that?)

I don’t know who this man is. He might be doing wonderful things with his life. Perhaps he is an outstanding member of our community. I only know the legacy he is leaving visible to me…a string of whisky bottles in the road ditch.

Most of us are now at a point in life where we can think about what legacy we want to leave behind. Some will be good. Others, not so much. Who wants to get to St. Peter at the end and claim his legacy is a ditch full of littered whisky bottles? Not me.

I’m just sayin’. •

18

December 9, 2020 • • • Welcome

Home WINTER TEXAN • • • www.welcomehomergv.com

JOIN THE FUN!

with Chaplain Larry Q. Allen

• Good News •

I have some astonishingly good

news for you. God loves you! Once, Billy Graham, perhaps the greatest preacher of the 20th and 21st centuries, was asked what the most profound truth he had ever pondered was. He answered, “Jesus loves me, this I know, for the Bible tells me so.”

Some years ago, I was waiting on a call to speak with a friend on the other side of the world. While waiting to speak with my friend, I began to converse with her executive assistant. She asked, “Have you ever been to our country?” I told her I had not and then asked her if she had ever been to the U.S. She replied that she had not. Then I told her, “If you ever do come to the U.S., I hope you will come visit my church.” She replied, “I’m not sure about that; I don’t really know much about God.” Excitedly, I responded, “Let me tell you the most important thing you need to know about God. He loves you!” The line got very quiet for what seemed like minutes.

Then she simply said, “Really?” I told her what the Bible says. “God so loved the world that He gave his one and only son so that whoever believes in Him would not perish but have eternal life.” (John 3:16) At that moment, she received the best news of all.

But there’s more. God not only loves you; he loves you just as you are. That’s something you can’t

WE ARE OPEN!

DECEMBER DAILY SCHEDULE

HAPPY Hour

(ADDITIONAL DAYS ADDED IN JANUARY)

Thursday .................. 11am - 8pm Friday ...................... 11am - 8pm Saturday................... 11am - 8pm Sunday..................... 11am - 8pm SOCIAL DISTANCE SEATING

Plenty of outside seating on our covered deck and patio.

Relax outside by the Rio Grande River.

Social distance seating. Face Mask required.

*Event Center Available for Park Gatherings*

Curt James

LIVE MUSIC

Sundays • 1:30PM - 5:30PM Steven May & Leon Mann Limited Seating. Face Mask Required.

Thursday, December 17th Larry Q. Allen is a new chaplain with Christian Resort Ministries. He and his wife, Mary, are serving their first season at Park Place RV Resort in Harlingen. They have over 30 years of pastoral experience and would love to meet you. Come

by Sunday and join them for worship service.

even do yourself. We find it so difficult to love ourselves. We seek to change our bodies through diets and exercise in large part so we will love ourselves. We learn to meditate or seek religious solutions so we might love ourselves. We pursue the newest fad, fashion, and frills to make ourselves more loveable. But God loves you just as you are. Listen to what the Bible tell us: “God proved His love for us in this way; while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” (Romans 5:8) That means God loves you just as you are.

That doesn’t mean He wants to leave you as you are. He does want to help you become your best self.

What it does mean is that you don’t have to do anything to get God to love you. He already loves you! So today, bask in this wonderful truth-you are loved by God. God really does love you, just as you are. •

• 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

TRY OUR TEXAS SIZE PORK TENDERLOIN

6:00 PM to 7:30 PM

Riverside Dreamer RIVER TOURS

CALL TODAY 956-581-4477

Pass the Hat

*** RESERVATIONS SUGGESTED ***

BYOB * Snack Bar Available

1 HOUR RIVER TOUR

Thursday ...............1:00pm Friday ...................1:00pm Saturday................1:00pm

*Social Distancing and Masks Required*

877-550-7961

Terry Miller • Activity Director

FACE MASK REQUIRED

• Covered Cushion Seating • Enclosed Windows & Heating

$ CASH ONLY $

4770 N. Mayberry Road Mission, TX 78573

SENIORS $12

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

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

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

•••

Welcome Home WINTER TEXAN • • • December 9, 2020 19

• • • News & Views in Valley Parks and Resorts • • •

Mission Bell Tradewinds Resort Special to Welcome Home RGV

Mis s i o n

Bell Tradewinds Resort had a Thanksgiving parade Thursday, November 26. Prizes were awarded for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd places and fun could be found all around.•

Help Food Bank RGV Feed the Valley Special to Welcome Home RGV

Share Your Christmas Join us as we team-up again with HEB and CBS 4 to collect donations for the Food Bank RGV. This year, Share Your Christmas will be a virtual food drive. Check the event page out online at www.foodbankrgv. com. Our partners at HEB will match up to $10,000, so with your help, we can reach our goal of providing 100,000 meals for families in need during the holiday season.

Empty Bowls Raffle/ Mini Auction As a result of Covid-19 and for the safety of our supporters, we have decided to push Empty Bowls back to September 2021. The Food Bank RGV will instead host a raffle/mini auction to keep the Empty Bowls spirit alive and to raise vital funds for the surge in demand due to the global pandemic. Look for announcements at www.foodbankrgv.com or on our Facebook page at Food Bank RGV now through February 10, 2021.

Don’t miss the fun! •

20

December 9, 2020 • • • Welcome

Home WINTER TEXAN • • • www.welcomehomergv.com

www.welcomehomergv.com

•••

Welcome Home WINTER TEXAN • • • December 9, 2020 21

News from Pickpocket Gene Special to Welcome Home RGV

Document Shredding and Destruction

I

dentity thieves have various opportunities to get our personal information. If you put your trash at the end of the curb, it is public domain, so you want to make sure you shred any personal or business records and documents before placing them in your trash.

A shredder is a valuable tool in protecting against identity theft.

There are several shredders in the marketplace today, and you should decide what features you really need.

If you have a business, it might be a higher number of sheets you need to shred per day. Two types of shredders I recommend are the crosscut shredder and the diamond-cut shredder. These shredders cut the documents almost into confetti. With the old shredders that shred in long strips, the papers can be potentially put back together. A program called “Jigsaw” can be purchased to allow thieves to take that information, place it on a scanner, and have the information put back together.

If you have checks from your bank that are no longer valid or no longer good, you might want to talk to someone at your bank about shredding those checks. If you have tax records and things you keep, make sure you regularly shred the ones you don’t need.

A number of shredders will also shred CDs, DVDs, and old, expired credit cards. If you do have a credit card you no longer want, if the

company doesn’t request the card back, you can shred the card in the shredder and get rid of that, but be aware of how canceling a credit card will impact your credit score.

Also, be aware that a lot of printers and copiers have hard drives in them. If you photocopy your credit cards, driver’s license, taxes, or other documents that contain personal information, your information may be saved on a hard drive. If you decide you no longer want the printer or copier and decide to sell it, put it at the curb, or donate it, someone else will have access to your personal information. If you photocopied your taxes, a thief could potentially end up with the dates of birth, social security numbers, and financial records of your entire family. Check online for the brand and model number you have to determine if your printer or copier contains a hard drive. If it does, you will want to have the hard drive destroyed or “wiped” with a wipe utility program.

If you “delete” data from a hard drive, thieves may be able to recover your information.

There are professional shredder companies that will destroy the hard drives for you. Most also have commercial shredding available.

Sometimes banks and other companies hold a shredding event where there is no charge.

Be aware! Be safe! And don’t become a victim! •

Pickpocket Gene is a certified identity-theft risk-management specialist. Through articles and live presentations, he helps people reduce their risk of becoming victims.

Last year, Reverse Advent Calendar donations from Bit-O-Heaven residents provided 38 bundles of food for Brothers in Christ to deliver to families in need in their area.

Bit-O-Heaven Reverse Advent Calendar to Benefit Local Families Special to Welcome Home RGV

B

it-O-Heaven RV and Mobile Home Resort has organized a Reverse Advent Calendar for Christmas again this season. Last year’s project was a great success, with 38 bundles delivered to Brothers in Christ, who

take the food and toys to various colonias in their church area.

Henry Satterfield of JJ Construction, does a lot of work in the Park, is in charge of the project. •

R E V E R S E

ADVENT CALENDAR EACH DAY ADD AN ITEM TO A BOX. ON CHRISTMAS EVE, DONATE THE CONTENTS TO A FOOD BANK.

December 1 December 2 December 3 December 4 December 5 December 6 December 7 December 8 December 9 December 10 December 11 December 12 December 13 December 14 December 15 December 16 December 17 December 18 December 19 December 20 December 21 December 22 December 23 December 24

• box of cereal • peanut butter • stuffing mix • boxed potatoes • macaroni and cheese • canned fruit • canned tomatoes • canned tuna • dessert mix • jar of applesauce • canned sweet potatoes • cranberry sauce • canned beans • box of crackers • package of rice • package of oatmeal • package of pasta • spaghetti sauce • chicken noodle soup • tomato soup • canned corn • canned mixed vegetables • canned carrots • canned green beans

22

December 9, 2020 • • • Welcome

DELICIOUS RECIPES

Home WINTER TEXAN • • • www.welcomehomergv.com

ZESTY BITES

RECIPE CONNECTION

INSTANT MEALS

Looking for that amazing treat that will satisfy your craving! Each week we will offer you a variety of recipes that you can try from those who truly enjoy food and want to share! •

Entertaining at a Distance

• • • with Sandy Olson • • •

Taco

APPETIZING DELIGHTS

seasoning is a great, all-purpose flavoring for Tex-Mex dishes. I like to get the low-sodium version of the packaged mix, but you can always make your own to control the salt and heat, to your liking. These little meatballs definitely have the flavor we crave without the mess of a taco shell. Serve on toothpicks for your “distanced’ guests. •

Meatballs with the Flavor We Crave • 2 pounds lean ground beef • 2 eggs, slightly beaten • 1 package taco seasoning • 3 tablespoons very finely minced onion • ½ teaspoon salt (if you are using the low-salt mix) • ½ teaspoon black pepper • Dash of ground cayenne, if you like the heat; can omit this Preheat the oven to 400 degrees. Gently mix all of the ingredients together using clean hands to combine. (Being too vigorous when mixing meat makes the meatballs tough.) Make into tiny balls using a level tablespoon of meat for each.

Bake for about 15 minutes or until nicely browned. These are flavorful enough to serve “naked,” but you can also provide some warm queso dip, if desired.

The meatballs can be made ahead and refrigerated for a day or frozen for longer. Heat in a slow oven so they don’t dry out. • 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 • • • South of the Border Subs •••

Submitted by The Junior League of McAllen, Inc.

Serves 6-8 • 2 cups grated cheddar cheese • 3 green onions, chopped • 1 (7½ oz.) can Salsa Verde • 2 jalapeños, seeded and diced (optional) • 1 (4 oz.) can chopped black olives • 1 loaf French bread, cut into ½-inch slices • 1/3 cup olive oil Preheat broiler.

In a medium bowl, mix together cheese, Salsa Verde, black olives, olive oil, onions, and jalapeños. Arrange bread slices on broiler pan and spread each piece with cheese mixture. Broil until bubbly, 1 or 2 minutes. Serve immediately. • 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 Pozole Rojo •••

•••

Submitted by Randy Hoelscher, The Border Cook Pozole is a soup made across most of South America. It is served as an everyday meal or a festive dish, frequently on New Year’s, Christmas, or other special occasions.

There are several types of pozole: rojo/red, verde/green, or blanco/ white. This recipe is for Red Pozole, something we had for dinner in Mexico City. All versions of pozole include a Mexican staple--corn or maize--in the form of hominy, a dried corn kernel treated with an alkali solution.

Pozole rojo features the use of dried chilis, providing the distinctive red color.

It is easiest to think of the recipe as having three distinct parts: the meat (pork, chicken, or beef) cooked in a broth, a zesty red sauce made from chilis and spices, and, finally, an assortment of garnishes to top off the soup. This recipe makes four generous servings--enough for dinner.

Prepare the meat and broth: Trim the pork to remove excess fat and skin and cut into chunks roughly two inches in size.

• 3 quarts water • ½ large yellow onion – cut in half • 6 whole cloves of fresh garlic – peeled • 1 Tbsp. kosher salt • 1 tsp. ground oregano – preferably Mexican • 2 bay leaves • 2 to 2½ lbs. trimmed pork (See note below) • 2 cups chicken broth – to replace water lost due to evaporation Add the water, onion, garlic, and spices to an eight-quart stock pot and bring to a boil over high heat.

Add the pork to the water and simmer, partially covered, for about two hours, removing foam and excess fat, as needed. Remove the pork and set aside. Strain the broth into a separate pot to remove the onions, garlic, oregano bits, and bay leaves. When the pork is cooled enough to handle, you can either shred it or cut it into bite-sized pieces. Return the broth and pork to the stock pot. Add the chicken broth.

Prepare the sauce (while the meat is cooking): • 4 guajillo chilis - stems removed, split, and the seeds and webbing removed • 2 ancho chilis - stems removed, split, and the seeds and webbing removed • Water – enough to cover chilis • 2 Tbsp. olive oil • ½ onion – chopped • 2 cloves garlic – peeled and chopped • ½ tsp. Mexican oregano • ½ tsp. cayenne pepper • 2 (15-ounce) cans of white-corn hominy – drained and rinsed • 1 jalapeño pepper – seeded, diced, and prepared with the onions and garlic (optional) Place the chilis in a pan with water to cover them. Heat to near boiling and steep the chilis for 15 minutes, reserving the liquid. Add the olive oil to a sauté pan and bring to medium heat. Cook the onions until softened, adding the chopped garlic when the onions are nearly softened and beginning to become translucent. Take care not to brown or burn the onions and garlic. Place the softened chilis in a blender, along with 1 cup of the reserved liquid. Add the softened onions and garlic. Add the spices. Puree the mixture until smooth.

To complete the soup, bring the broth and meat to a boil and add 1 cup of the chili sauce and the hominy. Simmer for about 45 minutes until the hominy softens to your liking.

Suggested garnishes to top off the soup: • reserved chili sauce • slivered cabbage (not red) • red-radish slices • diced onion or sliced scallions • chopped cilantro • avocado slices • limes – cut into sections • tortilla chips or pork rinds (chicharron) The soup is served with toppings served in separate bowls. This recipe has only mild heat, which comes from the chili sauce you made. Serve the remaining sauce in a bowl for people desiring more heat. Hot sauce can also be added. Be sure to squeeze fresh lime juice into the soup.

NOTE: The pork can be one of several different cuts of meat. I started with a 3½-pound bone-in picnic roast, and by the time the skin, bone, and fat were removed, it was just under two pounds of raw meat. Use your best judgement on the cut you purchase, aiming for two pounds or more of actual meat.

Enjoy! • 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.

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bon appetit! with

Executive Chef Bettina

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.

Tolin

Creamy Chicken and Artichoke Lasagna

This scrumptious lasagna recipe doubles really well. So if you are making a larger

batch, go ahead and use one the disposable half sheet foil pans from the grocery store and double up on everything! While not the most attractive pans around, they are fabulous for clean up because there is none!

Enjoy and Bon Appétit! • • 3 cups shredded cooked chicken breast • 14 oz. artichoke hearts, drained, roughly chopped • 12 oz. shredded Mozzarella Cheese, divided • 3/4 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese • 3/4 cup chopped drained oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes

• 16 oz. Cream Cheese, softened at room temp • 1 cup milk • ½ tsp. garlic powder • ¼ cup fresh basil, rolled and cut chiffonade • 12 lasagna noodles, cooked & cooled

• • •

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. For the Chicken: • 4 split chicken breasts, bone in, skin on • Olive oil • Kosher salt • Freshly ground black pepper Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil and place them on a baking sheet. Season generously with salt and pepper. Roast the chicken for 35 to 40 minutes, until just cooked. Let cool slightly. Separate the meat from the bones and skin; cut or shred into 3/4-inch pieces. Set aside. Tip: If you are pressed for time, it is perfectly fine to use a rotisserie chicken from the grocery store, rather than roasting the chicken.

In a bowl combine the chicken, artichokes, 1 cup mozzarella, Parmesan cheese and tomatoes. In a separate bowl, use a mixer to beat the cream cheese, milk and garlic powder until blended. Gently stir in 2 Tbsp. of the basil. Mix half of it with the chicken artichoke mixture and reserve the other half.

Spread half of the remaining cream cheese mixture onto bottom of 13x9-inch baking dish; cover with 3 noodles and 1/3 of the chicken mixture. Repeat layers of noodles and chicken mixture twice. Top with remaining noodles, cream cheese mixture and remaining mozzarella. Spray a piece of aluminum foil with cooking spray and cover the lasagna, spray side down.

Bake 20 min.; Remove foil and bake another 10 minutes until lightly browned and bubbly. Let stand 5 min. before cutting to serve. Garnish with remaining basil.

• • • • • • •

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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