Winter Texan Living 2019-2020

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publisher's note

2019-2020 Publisher Kristi Collier kristi@welcomehomergv.com Administration Amie Gray agray@welcomehomergv.com Colette Brookins colie@welcomehomergv.com Event Manager Anne Marie Martin events@welcomehomergv.com

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Business Development Lucy Ann Wolthoff lucyann@welcomehomergv.com Curt James Riester curt@welcomehomergv.com

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Traditionally, the Winter Texan Living cover features couples who embody the

retiree lifestyle of the Rio Grande Valley. In this, our twelfth year, we are changing it up! In this issue, you will meet four friends who are quick to joke and laugh but just as quick to support each other. Sandy Rogers, Shirley Thurman, Kathy Tyler and Peggy Creach prove that friendships can be formed anywhere (They bonded in a hot tub!) and at any time.

At Welcome Home RGV, we are honored to have played a small role in bringing these four ladies together. Sandy and Shirley met Kathy and Peggy during Activity Director Boot Camp on South Padre Island, hosted by Welcome Home RGV. Our motto is, “We’re just connecting the dots…’ and we truly enjoy witnessing all the connections being made each Winter Texan season.

We didn’t slow down during the off season! In 2019, we rolled out the Summer Supper Club, connecting local restaurants with our Converted Texans and introducing local options to northern retirees who have made the leap to live in the Rio Grande Valley year round,. It was a blast…so much so that we look forward to doing it again in the summer of 2020!

The Summer Supper Club not only helped boost the local economy, but helped form new friendships. It’s more proof that wonderful friendships can happen anywhere and at any time! And I can easily attest to that! Over the past 12 years, I have made wonderful friendships with staff, volunteers, and Winter and Converted Texans.

This issue of Winter Texan Living is packed with opportunities to engage with locals and visitors alike. I invite you to take part in all the Rio Grande Valley has to offer. You just never know where—maybe at a new restaurant or outdoor event, perhaps--a new connection will spark!

We’re just connecting the dots…

TO OUR

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Accounting Matt Davis matt@welcomehomergv.com Editor Chris Ardis news@welcomehomergv.com Graphic Design 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 Activity Coordinator Fran Adams fran@welcomehomergv.com 1st Responder Coordinator Rita Huether rita@welcomehomergv.com Logistics Tom Stocker With many thanks to all the volunteer members of

Kristi’s Crew •••

219 Nolana McAllen, Texas 78504 956-687-5115 956-682-4770 fax www.welcomehomergv.com

Kristi

THANK YOU

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

SEASON SPONSORS

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© Copyright 2019 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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so relaxing. so padre Every year, visitors are drawn here by the warm sunshine and endless beach and bay activities. South Padre Island, the only tropical island in Texas, is the perfect winter escape to beaches made for strolling, fishing and catching beautiful sunsets.

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contents

S E E W H AT ’ S I N S I D E

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note 4 publisher’s HELLO FROM KRISTI

10 onTHEthe4t'scover calendar 15 season WHAT’S HAPPENING IN THE RGV

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32 TRAVEL BY WELCOME HOME connecting adventures

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living 37 retirement FIND A PLACE TO CALL HOME

44 LET'S PUT YOUR TALENTS TO GOOD USE volunteerism

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here to there 47 from RGV DISTANCE IN MILES

48 RIO GRANDE VALLEY MAP warm welcome

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in time 50 moments 2018 - 2019 SEASON MEMORIES

52 WINTER TEXAN REUNION TOUR on the road

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Follow Us on Social Media

time in the rgv 54 tee GOLF COURSES

57 SAVINGS AND MORE coupons

On the Cover: (L to R) Peggy Creach, Sandy Rogers, Kathy Tyler, and Shirley Thurman located at Bryan House in Mission, Texas. www.facebook.com @whrgv @wintertexan

www.instagram.com @welcomehomergv @wintertexans

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www.twitter.com @welcomehomergv

Special thanks to Linda Blackwell Photography for capturing this cover shot.

Special thanks to Lionel's Western Wear for our cover models' attire.

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t he ©2019 Linda Blackwell Photography • 2019-2020

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Sharing

laughter, support, and a lifetime of

memories

hey bonded in a hot tub at Schlitterbahn on South Padre Island two years ago.

Sandy Rogers, Shirley Thurman, Peggy Creach, and Kathy Tyler have been practically inseparable ever since, becoming affectionately known as the ‘4 T’s,’ as in troublemakers, for their reputation of pulling pranks, the occasional goodnatured heckling, and giggling while they work.

Sandy and Shirley are the activity director and park manager, respectively, at Eldorado Acres. Peggy and Kathy are the activity-director team at Bentsen Grove Resort. Both parks are located in Palmview, near Mission. The night of sharing stories and jokes in that hot tub laid the ground work for a remarkable friendship.

They find common ground enjoying the Winter-Texan lifestyle, filled with sunny days and endless activity options. They are not content to sit around and relax during the winter months. “We like to get out and do stuff!” Sandy shares.

Sandy, originally from Oklahoma, lives in the Rio Grande Valley full time, qualifying her as a ‘Converted Texan,’ a term coined

by Welcome Home RGV for winter visitors who make the permanent move to live in the Valley year round. When asked what she enjoys most about the Valley, Shirley interjects and exclaims, “Me!” immediately eliciting laughter from the group.

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No topic is off limits when it comes to their friendship. Kathy says, “It’s nice to be with somebody that you don’t have to watch what you say.” They all nod in agreement as Shirley adds, “We can just be driving down the road, and all of a sudden somebody will say something, then someone else says something, and we all just die laughing. We can just be nuts and let loose.”

The ladies credit Welcome Home RGV with being instrumental in bringing them together. Shirley and Sandy, who hails from Illinois, met Peggy and Kathy, both from Missouri, during the Welcome Home RGV Boot Camp. Boot Camp is held each fall before the Winter-Texan season, showcasing local tours and activities available to seasonal visitors. “When the Boot Camp calendar came out last year, we just clicked everything!” exclaims Peggy. It was during a Boot-Camp excursion that their propensity to engage in prank shenanigans was revealed, to the delight of Welcome-Home organizers.

Sandy points out that their retirement lifestyle is not the same as that of her parents, who also retired in the Valley, “The younger ones don’t want to sit and play cards; they want to get out. They want to do different things.” ‘Things’ like cruising the Caribbean or visiting Mexico City during Dia de los Muertos, which the foursome experienced together with Travel by Welcome Home RGV.

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ON THE COVER : The 4t's

The women are not just friends; they are also a support system for their collective jobs. They take their responsibilities seriously, reaching out to each other to share tips and ideas on how to provide personal service and engage residents in activities. The hardest part, Sandy says, is trying to make everybody happy. During their interview, the conversation often shifted to work--exchanging ideas and ruminating over various challenges but, ultimately, the thoughtful exchanges yielded to wisecracks and laughter.

As much fun as they have together, they each are conscientious about their jobs. Shirley and Sandy recall being instructed, when they were each hired, to get to know the park residents.

Peggy begins planning the next season’s calendar of events well before the current season ends, including organizing notorious dances attended by approximately 300 people.

Their duties include things like planning activities, welcoming and orienting residents, scheduling, and setting up for events. There are many work days that last late into the night. Sandy shares she greatly appreciates the

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The 4t's : ON THE COVER

volunteer support of the residents. “I love them dearly!” she says.

They readily agree on what they like best about their jobs. “The ‘thank yous’ and the hugs at the end of the season,” says Peggy.

Kathy keeps cards on display behind her desk as a reminder of the appreciation residents have shared. Shirley shares, “Really, in a way, it’s one of the best jobs in the world. They make you want to do well.”

While they venture off in different directions in the summer, they keep tabs on each other until they are all back together in the Valley.

Regarding their new found friendship, Shirley shares, “I think I’ve found out that you can really have true friends that really do care about you, and you can have a helluva good time! And I tell you what--I’d give my life for any one of these three girls.” They all nod in agreement, and Sandy adds, “We have a lot of good memories. We’ve only been together a couple of years, and we’ve already made a lifetime of memories. We’re ready for our next adventure!” •

Candid photos credit: Eryn Reddell Wingert

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season calendar

W H AT ’ S H A P P E N I N G I N T H E R G V OCTOBER • • •

NOVEMBER • • •

Alamo

Brownsville

National Wildlife Refuge Week: Santa Ana National Wildlife Refuge, Alamo

Brownsville

Rio Grande Valley Birding Festival

Brownsville Turkey Trot: UTRGV Recreation Center, Brownsville Veteran’s Day March: Begins at HEB & ends at Veteran's Park, Brownsville Memorial Illumination: Palo Alto Battlefield, Brownsville

Boo at the Zoo: Gladys Porter Zoo, Brownsville Jazz Fest: Historic Downtown District, Brownsville Harlingen Rio Grande Delta International Archeology Fair: Rio Grande Valley Birding Festival: Palo Alto Battlefield, Brownsville Municipal Auditorium Complex, Harlingen Los Fresnos Continued on Page 16 >> National Wildlife Refuge Week: Laguna Atascosa, Los Fresnos Narcisco Martinez Conjunto Festival: Memorial Park, 900 N Arroyo Blvd, Sand Castle Days Los Fresnos

McAllen

Sunset Live Concert Series: McAllen Convention Center, McAllen

Raymondville

Photo credit: sandcasteldays.com

Wild in Willacy: Raymondville Chamber of Commerce, Raymondville

San Benito

Resaca City Music Festival: Heavin Memorial Park, San Benito

South Padre Island

Sandcastle Days: Clayton’s Beach Bar, South Padre Island

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sandcastledays.com Master sand sculptors Walter McDonald (aka Amazin Walter) and Lucinda Wierenga (aka Sandy Feet) are South Padre Island residents. Thirty-two years ago, they started Sandcastle Days as a way to demonstrate the magical sculpting qualities of South Padre Island sand and the critical importance of protecting our beautiful coastal shores. Over the years, this FREE family-fun event has grown from a local celebration to a qualifying event for the World Championships of Sand Sculpting, where 30,000+ fans come to watch the sand come alive.

Admission to this year’s event is FREE and boasts a new location, live music, art booths, great food, and an exciting new evening. Check back on the website to view the event schedule and more.

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>> Photo Credit: Mary Beth Stowe

Jackson Street Holiday Stroll & Christmas Tree Lighting: Historic Jackson Street District, Harlingen Harlingen Fall Festival: Fair Park, Harlingen Iwo Jima Parade: Marine Military Academy Parade, Harlingen Holiday Stroll: Downtown Harlingen, Harlingen Arroyo Holiday Lighting: Downtown Harlingen, Harlingen

RGV Birding Festival rgvbf.org If you want to add 30-plus new birds to your life list, memory card, or just your memory, come join us for the 2019 Rio Grande Valley Birding Festival in Harlingen November 6-10, with pre- and post-trips planned (Upper Texas Coast and El Cielo, Mexico).

Plenty of field trip offerings to the traditional spots and some new ones added for our return visitors. With the coast about 30 miles away, hints of the Chihuahuan Desert (only 2 hours to the west) and the ribbon of the Rio Grande to our south, we have lots of habitat and diversity of birds to offer!

Registration is $25 for everyone attending the Festival. The Kiskadee Pass (an all-event entrance ticket for presentations/keynotes) is available for $30, providing access to all the entertainment on the stage. Individual event prices at the door will be $10-$20 each, so the Kiskadee Pass is quite a savings.

All field trips are priced individually, depending on distance, time, and entry fees. Field trips, keynote speakers, workshops, fun socials, and lots of birds.

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La Feria

Lighting of the Tree: La Feria City Hall, La Feria

McAllen

Veteran’s Day event: Veteran’s War Memorial, McAllen Sunset Live Outdoor Concert Series: McAllen Convention Center, McAllen

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What’s Happening in the Rio Grande Valley : CALENDAR

Mission

Photo credit: Eryn Reddell Wingert

Texas Butterfly Festival: National Butterfly Center, Mission

Port Isabel

Annual Shrimp Cook-off: Sutherlands parking lot, Port Isabel

Pharr

Veterans Day Parade: Downtown Pharr, Pharr

San Benito

Veterans’ Tribute: Sam Houston Boulevard, San Benito

DECEMBER • • • Brownsville

Brownsville Christmas Parade: Downtown Brownsville, Brownsville

Texas Butterfly Festival texasbutterflyfestival.com

Renowned for a volume and variety of wild, free-flying butterflies that cannot be found anywhere else in the country, deep south Texas is home to the country’s premier butterfly event, featuring: • Field Trips and Educational Activities for Beginners to Experts • Private Gardens and Guided ‘Hot Spot’ Tours • The North American Butterfly Photo Contest • And FREE Community Day fun for the whole family Registrants will spend three days exploring renowned public lands and private properties with world-class trip leaders. You may reasonably expect to see more than 60 species in a day.

Continued on Page 19 >>

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>>

Hidalgo Festival of Lights

Hidalgo

Hidalgo Festival of Lights: Hidalgo RGV Jaycees Christmas Parade: Downtown Harlingen, Harlingen

La Feria

Lighted Christmas Parade & Winter Festival: La Feria City Hall, La Feria

McAllen

FRIO! McAllen Convention Center, McAllen www.friomcallen.net Ilumina Fest: Quinta Mazatlan, McAllen McAllen Holiday Parade: McAllen Veterans Memorial Stadium, McAllen Pearl Harbor Day event: Veteran’s War Memorial, McAllen Sunset Live Outdoor Concert Series McAllen Convention Center, McAllen

Photo credit: Eryn Reddell Wingert

Harlingen

Ilumina Fest

Mercedes

Mercedes Welcome Back Winter Texans event: RGV Livestock Show Grounds, Mercedes

Edinburg

Night of Lights parade: City of Edinburg, Edinburg

Port Isabel

Market by the Bay Antique and Collectibles: Port Isabel

Pharr

Christmas Posada: Downtown Pharr, Pharr

San Benito

Christmas Parade: Sam Houston Boulevard, San Benito

South Padre Island

Christmas Lighted Street Parade: South Padre Island

Quinta Mazatlan World Birding Center quintamazatlan.com The Ilumina Fest celebrates the season of light at Quinta Mazatlan. The event is held the second weekend in December. It is an after-dark arts festival with a luminaria trail that lights up the forest. Guests will enjoy making their own luminaria and placing it on the trails. The festival will feature music along the trails, arts & crafts, food, and great company.

For more information, visit quintamazatlan.com or call 956-681-3370.

Continued on Page 20 >>

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MONTHLY EVENTS • • • in the RGV • • •

JANUARY • • • Harlingen

Winter Texan Appreciation Fiesta: Casa De Amistad, Harlingen

Harlingen

McAllen

Jackson Street Market Days

27th Annual Winter Texan Expo: McAllen Convention Center, McAllen Golden Age Olympics: City of McAllen, McAllen McAllen Marathon: McAllen Convention Center, McAllen McAllen Car Fest: McAllen Convention Center, McAllen Sunset Live Outdoor Concert Series: McAllen Convention Center, McAllen

First Saturday of the month Historic Jackson Street District

Harlingen Art Night

Last Friday of every month Historic Jackson Street District

McAllen Art Walk

First Friday of every month Downtown McAllen

Continued on Page 22 >>

McAllen

Sunset Live Outdoor Concert Series

Second Saturday in October, November, December, April, May, June McAllen Convention Center

LIFETIME WARRANTY

SHOP AT TWO LOCATIONS!

Port Isabel

Port Isabel Flea Market

First & Third Sunday each month (Nov - Feb) First Sunday each month (March - October)

San Benito

San Benito Market Days

Third Saturday of each month

The San Benito Chamber of Commerce presents Resaca City Market Days every third Saturday of every month. The event takes place on Batts Street off - of Sam Houston Blvd from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm. Come join us for some shopping, great food and live entertainment!

Weslaco

Alfresco Weslaco

Third Thursday of each month Downtown Weslaco

Look for KatsKorner Tupperware inside: Main Place Indoor Market 1800 S Main St, Suite #400 McAllen, TX 78503 (across La Plaza Mall behind Kirklands)

Tuesday - Friday • 12-4pm

Bargain Bazaar 4400 N 23rd St McAllen, TX 78504 Saturday & Sunday 11am - 4pm

Kathleen Wilder US Regional Manager

C: 956-821-7591 E: KatsKornerTupperware@yahoo.com KathleenWilder.my.TupperWare.com

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Photo credit: Eryn Reddell Wingert

What’s Happening in the Rio Grande Valley : CALENDAR

Winter Texan Expo

wintertexanexpo.com facebook.com/wintertexanexpo The Winter Texan Expo & Health Fair is a FREE fun-filled two-day event every January plus FREE health screenings, FREE entertainment, and lots of door prizes! ALL Seniors are welcome! The Exhibit Hall of the McAllen Convention Center is filled with vendors-- retail, restaurants, service providers, health care, and more—anxious to let you know what they have to offer. Get ready to sing along and to get up and dance when your favorite entertainers take the stage.

Mark your calendars. This is definitely an event you don’t want to miss!

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>> Mercedes

SPI Causeway Run

National Professional Bull Riders Rodeo: RGV Livestock Show Grounds, Mercedes

Photo credit: Port Isabel Chamber

Port Isabel Longest Causeway Run & Fitness Walk: Port Isabel Market by the BayAntique and Collectibles: Port Isabel

South Padre Island

portisabelchamber.com “Kick off the new year with this coastal tradition! Run or walk a 5 or 10k that starts in historic Port Isabel then heads over the 2.6 mile Queen Isabella Causeway with a breathtaking view of the Laguna Bay and then on to South Padre Island, terra firma. A unique experience that is sure to make memories.”

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Winter Fest Music Fest: Schlitterbahn, South Padre Island South Padre Island Market Days: South Padre Island Convention Centre, South Padre Island Polar Bear Plunge: Clayton’s Beach Bar, South Padre Island Penguin Dip: Boomerang Billies, South Padre Island

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What’s Happening in the Rio Grande Valley : CALENDAR

FEBRUARY • • •

Museum of South Texas History - Annual Pioneer and Ranching Crafts Day Festival

Brownsville

Charro Days Fiesta: Downtown Brownsville, Brownsville Winter Texan Discount Day: Gladys Porter Zoo, Brownsville Sombrero Fest: Downtown Brownsville, Brownsville

Donna

Chisholm Trail Festival: Altas Palmas Park, Donna Photo credit: Eryn Reddell Wingert

Edinburg

Fiesta Edinburg: Edinburg Municipal Park, Edinburg Annual Pioneer and Ranching Crafts Day Festival: Museum of South Texas History, Edinburg Continued on Page 25 >>

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>> Harlingen

Charro Days Fiesta

Harlingen Marathon: Lon C. Hill Park, Harlingen Jalapeno 100/62.5/50/25/12: Start & Finish line - Boys & Girls Club, Harlingen

La Feria

Fiesta de La Feria: La Feria City Hall Downtown, La Feria

Los Fresnos

Los Fresnos PRCA Rodeo & Concert: Los Fresnos Rodeo Grounds, Los Fresnos

Pharr Photo credit: charrodaysfiesta.com

Snowbird Extravaganza: Pharr Events Center, Pharr

McAllen

All Valley Boat Show: McAllen Convention Center, McAllen

Mercedes

charrodaysfiesta.com February - March In 1937, during the Great Depression, local business leaders searched for an antidote to the gloom that engulfed Brownsville and the rest of the country.

One year later, the community came together for the very first Charro Days to celebrate what made Brownsville unique--its location on the border with Mexico and the rich cultural heritage enjoyed by Brownsville residents.

From the very first celebration, Brownsville residents and visitors have dressed in the traditional costumes of Mexico and have honored the Mexican cowboys—the charros--who were heroes of the borderlands.

Horse-drawn, hand-made floats made their way through downtown Brownsville in those early years, with marching bands from Mexico, soldiers from old Fort Brown, and children from area schools dressed as charros and chinas.

Elegant costume balls, popular street parties and fireworks--all launched with a joyful yell, the traditional Grito--were popular back then and contribute to lively Charro Days celebrations today.

Over the years, Brownsville’s sister city of Matamoros has always been a key participant with Fiestas Mexicanas. In years gone by, international bridges were open during Charro Days, allowing family and friends to share the festivities. Even today, ties between the sister cities are celebrated each year with Hands Across the Bridge. In this ceremony of friendship, the mayors of Brownsville and Matamoros meet to officially begin the celebrations.

The Mr. Amigo Association became a part of Charro Days in 1967, honoring a Mexican citizen who contributes to friendly bi-national relations.

Sombrero Festival, a three-day Washington Park street party with popular rock, country, and tejano performers, was added in 1986.

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Smokin’ on the Rio: RGV Livestock Show Grounds, Mercedes

Mission

Winter Texan Fiesta: Leo Pena Placita Park, Mission Texas Citrus Fiesta - Parade of Oranges: Mission Community Center Parade on Conway Ave, Mission

Port Isabel

Market by the Bay Antique and Collectibles: Port Isabel

South Padre Island

Rio Grande Valley Quilt Guild: South Padre Island Convention Centre, South Padre Island South Padre Island Kite Fest: South Padre Island South Padre Island Market Days: South Padre Island Convention Centre, South Padre Island Continued on Page 28 >>

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FARMERS MARKETS • • • in the RGV • • • Brownsville

Farmers Market Every Saturday • Linear Park

Harlingen

Farmers Market Every Saturday Historic Jackson Street District Wild August Nursery & Flower Farmers Market Every Saturday • Harlingen

McAllen

McAllen Farmers Market Every Saturday • McAllen Public Library Growin’ Growers Farmers Market Every Saturday • McAllen Fireman’s Park, McAllen

The Rio Grande Valley's calendar of events is at your fingertips--fine dining, dancing, live music, and more are all on the Welcome Home RGV app! Our app makes it easier than ever to plan a fun-filled weekend or to find a great local restaurant.

Tres Lagos Farmers Market First Sunday • Tres Lagos, McAllen

Pharr

Pharrmers Market Every Thursday • RGV Food Bank, Pharr

South Padre Island

South Padre Island Farmers Market Every Sunday • The Shores, SPI

Weslaco

Photo credit: Eryn Reddell Wingert

Don Wes Flea Market Every Wednesday, Saturday & Sunday, Weslaco

Don Wes Flea Market

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>>

MARCH • • • Hidalgo

Borderfest: State Farm Arena, Hidalgo

McAllen

Keep McAllen Beautiful Arbor Day Celebration: McAllen Municipal Park, McAllen Monarch Fest Quinta Mazatlan, McAllen

Monarch Fest

Mercedes

Quinta Mazatlan World Birding Center quintamazatlan.com

The annual Monarch Fest at Quinta Mazatlan is a celebration with a

purpose. The event, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., gives people a chance to learn about the monarch butterfly, as well as to participate in fun, family-friendly crafts, nature walks, and gardening classes. The festival features cooking demonstrations, butterfly stilt walkers, tree acrobats, and music and dance performances. Save time for the Marketplace, with cultural arts and native plants for sale. Wear your ORANGE and wings to support the monarch and participate in the morning kick-off event, the Mayor’s Bug Parade!

For more information, visit quintamazatlan.com or call 956-681-3370.

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RGV Livestock Show & Rodeo: RGV Livestock Show Grounds, Mercedes

Pharr

Hub Phest: Pharr City Hall, Pharr Progreso, MX Winter Texan Appreciation Day - Dia De la Turista: Progreso, Mexico

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What’s Happening in the Rio Grande Valley : CALENDAR Texas Onion Fest

Photo credit: Weslaco Chamber of Commerce

San Benito

Texas Independence Day Celebration: San Benito Fairgrounds, San Benito

Weslaco

Texas Onion Fest: Mayor Pablo G. Pena City Park, Weslaco

Winter Texan Appreciation Day - Dia De la Turista

McALLEN OFFICE 533 Pecan Blvd McAllen, TX 78501

(956) 682-4187 WESLACO OFFICE 1015 S. Utah Ave. Weslaco, TX 78596

(956) 969-1063

Dr. Tin H. Quach, D.P.M.

Dr. Renee Rodriguez, DPM

We provide preventive care, diagnosis and treatment of problems affecting the foot and ankle in patients of all ages.

Treatment and Services:

• Ingrown toe nails • Bunions • Callouses and corns • Diabetic foot • Diabetic limb salvage • Fungal nails • Hammer toe

• Ulcers • Heel pain • Warts • Infections • Toe nail cutting • Foot arthritis and more...

www.mcallenfootcenter.com www.welcomehomergv.com

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y name is Kristy Hallock Meyer. I was born and raised in M McAllen. I grew up in the middle of a citrus orchard my grandad

BOOK WITH US

TODAY!

and dad farmed for many years. My love of travel came from the many family vacations my parents took me on as a child. The best one was the cruise we took for my high school graduation. From that point on, I was hooked on cruising! I have now been on more than 30 cruises!

After graduating from high school, I knew travel was my passion, so I enrolled in Pace Travel Academy in Austin. Soon after, I landed my first job as a travel agent. I worked as a travel consultant for many years, later managing a local travel agency for nine years. After the horrific events September 11, 2001, the travel world experienced many changes. The travel agency I had loved and managed for so long decided it was time to close.

I then had the opportunity to work for a nonprofit organization that helps abused children here in the Rio Grande Valley. This experience certainly opened my eyes to a different world, a world I had never seen. After eight years and a lot of soul searching, I decided it was time to get back to my passion...TRAVEL! I am married to Bobby, the love of my life, and between us we have four wonderful children. I am one lucky girl because Bobby loves to travel as much as I do! Together we have had countless opportunities to visit wonderful places, in addition to cruising!

I am looking forward to helping you plan your trip of a lifetime.

•••

Call our Travel Expert,

Kristy Hallock Meyer,

at 956-687-5115 today!

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connecting adventures

T R AV E L B Y W E L C O M E H O M E Photo credit: Eryn Reddell Wingert

MEXICO CITY

CRUISE WITH KRISTI

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FLEA MARKETS IN THE RGV ALAMO

Alamo Flea Market (also known as Mercadome Flea Market)

1602 W. Expressway 83, Alamo 956-787-8780 Open Mon.-Fri. 8 am – 5 pm Sat. 6:30 am – 5 pm Sun. 6:00 am – 6 pm

ALTON

Ochoa’s Flea Market 1413 S. Alton Blvd, Alton 956-580-1757 Open Wed. – Fri. 9 am to 4 pm Sat. and Sun. 6 am to 5 pm

DONNA

Don-Wes Flea Market 3210 E. Business Hwy 83, Donna 956-464-3502 Open Wed., Thurs., Sat. and Sun. 8 am – 4 pm Valverde Flea Market 935 Business 83, Donna 956-377-5278 Open Tues. and Fri. 8 am to 5 pm Wed. 5 am to 5 pm Sat. and Sun. 7 am to 5 pm

HARLINGEN

True Food Markets Specialty Grocery Store, Café, and Outdoor Market 9610 W. Expressway 83, Harlingen The store is open every day from 10 am to 7 pm Market outside every Sunday from 4 – 7 pm Owners are goat dairy farmers and make their own cheeses and milk.

HIDALGO

River Market 910 S. Monterrey St, Hidalgo 956-843-9500 Open Tues. – Sun. 7 am to 5 pm

• 2019-2020

• • • 34 • • •

Photo credit: Eryn Reddell Wingert

McALLEN

Bargain Bazaar (Indoor) 4400 N. 23rd St., McAllen 956-503-0214 Open Sat. and Sun. 10 am to 6 pm Main Place Indoor Market 1800 S. Main St., McAllen 956-984-9161 Open Tues – Sun 11 am to 7 pm McAllen Flea Market 2400 S 23rd St, McAllen 956-682-4217

a publication of Welcome Home RGV

www.welcomehomergv.com

• • • 35 • • •

2019-2020 •

ALAMO

year-round or winter only!

501 W. Owassa Rd Pharr, TX 78577

800 FM 495 Alamo, TX 78516

Wilder Resorts features all the amenities you deserve...

1401 S. Cage Blvd.

Pharr, TX 78577

600 FM 495 Alamo, TX 78516

Choose from one of our Rio Grande Valley Resort Locations!

956-787-7717

956-781-1358

MISSION

DIVISION OF THE WILDER CORPORATION

Resorts are a wonderful lifestyle choice,

938 S. Alamo Road Alamo, TX 78516

956-783-2600

Blue Bonnet RV R E S ORT

PHARR

3366 N. Bentsen Palm Dr.

Mission, TX 78574

956-585-7630

RVRESORTS.COM

956-787-6538

956-787-5957

101 E. Sioux Rd Pharr, TX 78577

956-787-9959

HARLINGEN 5401 Business 83 Harlingen, TX 78552

956-428-4414

Now Taking •Reservations - 2020 Season!

2019-2020 • • • 36for • •2019 •

a publication of Welcome Home RGV

retirement living

FIND A PLACE TO CALL HOME ALAMO • • •

BROWNSVILLE • • •

Alamo Country Club 438 Country Club Drive Alamo, TX 78516 www.myalamocountryclub.com (956) 787-0907

Breeze Lake RV Campground 1710 N. Vermillion Avenue Brownsville, TX 78521

Alamo Palms RV Resort 1341 W. Business 83 Alamo, TX 78516 www.rvsouthtexas.com (956) 787-7571

Palm Resaca Mobile Home Park, Inc. 100 Tangerine Blvd.

Brownsville, TX 78521 www.palmresacapark.org (956) 546-7423

Alamo Rose RV Resort 938 S. Alamo Road Alamo, TX 78516 www.alamoroserv.com (956) 783-2600 Casa Del Valle RV Resort 1048 N. Alamo Road Alamo, TX 78516 www.rhprvresorts.com (956) 783-5008 La Hacienda Estates 1018 El Paseo Drive Alamo, TX 78516 (972) 571-6567 Trophy Gardens RV Resort 800 State Hwy. 495 Alamo, TX 78516 www.trophygardens.com (956) 787-7717 Winter Ranch RV Resort 600 State Hwy 495 Alamo, TX 78516 www.winterranchrv.com (956) 781-1358

ALTON • • • J-Five RV Park 3907 N. Taylor Road Alton, TX 78573 www.j5rvparktexas.com (956) 682-7495

www.welcomehomergv.com

www.breezelakervcampground.com

(956) 831-4427

Sunset Palms RV & Mobile Home Park 1129 N. Minnesota Avenue Brownsville, TX 78521 www.paulsrvpark.com (956) 831-4852 Winter Haven Resort 3501 Old Port Isabel Road Brownsville, TX 78526 www.winterhavenresort.com (956) 831-7755

DONNA • • • Big Valley Trailer Park 109 W. Business Highway 83 Donna, TX 78537 www.bigvalleyrvpark.com (956) 464-4159 Bit-O-Heaven RV & MH Park 1051 W. Business Hwy. 83 Donna, TX 78537 www.bit-o-heaven.net (956) 464-5191 Casa Del Sol MH & RV Resort 400 N. Val Verde Road Donna, TX 78537 www.casadelsol.us (956) 464-2272

• • • 37 • • •

Palm Shadows RV Resort 200 N. Val Verde Road Donna, TX 78537 www.palmshadowsrvpark.com (956) 464-3324 Victoria Palms RV Resort 602 N. Victoria Road Donna, TX 78537 www.victoriapalms.com (956) 464-7801

EDINBURG • • • Orange Grove RV Park 4901 E. State Highway #107 Edinburg, TX 78539 www.ogrvp.com (956) 383-7931

HARLINGEN • • • Fig Tree RV Resort 15257 W. Expressway 83 Harlingen, TX 78552 www.figtreervresort.com (956) 423-6699 Lakewood RV Resort 4525 Graham Road Harlingen, TX 78552 www.rvonthego.com (956) 423-1170 Palm Gardens RV & MH Park 3401 W. Business 83 Harlingen, TX 78552 www.palmgardensresort.com (956) 423-7670 Paradise Park RV Resort 1201 N. Expressway 77 Harlingen, TX 78552 www.rvonthego.com (956) 425-6881 Continued on Page 38 >>

2019-2020 •

RETIREMENT LIVING : Find a Place to Call Home

>> Park Place Estates RV Resort 5401 W. Business 83 Harlingen, TX 78552 www.parkplaceestatesrv.com (956) 428-4414 Sunshine RV Resort 1900 Grace Avenue Harlingen, TX 78550 www.rvonthego.com /Sunshine-RV-Resort (956) 428-4137 Tropic Winds RV Resort 1501 N. Loop 499 Harlingen, TX 78550 www.rvonthego.com /texas/tropic-winds-rv-resort (956) 423-4020

• 2019-2020

LA FERIA • • •

McALLEN • • •

Kenwood RV Resort 1201 N. Main Street #1 La Feria, TX 78559 www.kenwoodrv.com (956) 797-1851

Adobe Wells Homeowners Association, Inc. 4901 Daffodil Avenue #465 McAllen, TX 78501 www.adobewells.net (956) 686-8801

VIP La Feria RV Park East 300 E. Expressway 83 La Feria, TX 78559 www.viplaferia.com (956) 797-1401

Heritage Village 2105 S. Cynthia Street McAllen, TX 78503 www.holidaytouch.com

/our-communities/heritage-village

(956) 631-4422 VIP La Feria RV Park West 600 E. Expressway 83 La Feria, TX 78559 www.viplaferia.com (956) 797-1043

• • • 38 • • •

Homestead Ranch MH & RV Park 744 Loras Lane McAllen, TX 78501 www.nodelparks.com (956) 686-3164

a publication of Welcome Home RGV

Find a Place to Call Home : RETIREMENT LIVING

Homestead 2701 N. McColl Road McAllen, TX 78501 www.nodelparks.com (956) 682-5392 McAllen Mobile Park 4900 N. McColl Road McAllen, TX 78504 www.mcallenmobilepark.com (956) 682-3304

Paradise South RV Resort 9099 N. Mile 2 West Mercedes, TX 78570 www.rvonthego.com /Paradise-South (956) 565-2044

MISSION • • •

MERCEDES • • •

Aladdin Villas 1415 Aladdin Villas Blvd. West Mission, TX 78572 www.aladdinvillas.org

Llano Grande Resort & Country Club 2215 E. West Blvd.

Mercedes, TX 78570 www.llanogranderesort.com (956) 565-2638

Blue Bonnet RV Resort 3366 N. Bentsen Palm Drive Mission, TX 78574 www.bluebonnetrvpark.com (956) 585-7630

Canyon Lake RV Resort 4770 N. Mayberry Road Mission, TX 78573 www.canyonlakervresort.com (956) 580-4545 Chimney Park RV Resort 4224 S. Conway Avenue Mission, TX 78572 www.chimneyparkresort.com (956) 585-5061 Dream Valley Ranch 2401 N. Abram Road, Unit 6 Mission, TX 78572 (956) 581-2517 El Valle Del Sol and Luna 2500 E. Business 83 Mission, TX 78572 www.inspirecom.com (956) 585-5704 Continued on Page 40 >>

www.welcomehomergv.com

• • • 39 • • •

2019-2020 •

RETIREMENT LIVING : Find a Place to Call Home

>> Enchanted Valley Ranch 7300 Monroe Street Mission, TX 78572 www.evrmission.com (956) 519-8597

Split Rail RV Park 513 N. Los Ebanos Road Mission, TX 78572 www.splitrailrvpark.com (956) 585-8135

Pharr South 1402 S. Cage Blvd.

Pharr, TX 78577 www.pharrsouth.com (956) 787-7839

Fiesta Village 205 S. Stewart Road Mission, TX 78572 www.fiestavillagetx.com (956) 585-9264

Trade Winds RV Resort 1005 N. Stewart Road Mission, TX 78572 www.tradewindsrvresort.com (956) 585-4833

Texas Trails RV Resort 501 W. Owassa Road Pharr, TX 78577 www.texastrailsrv.com (956) 787-6538

Leisure Valley Ranch 1920 E. Bogey Drive Mission, TX 78572 www.leisurevalleyranch.info (956) 529-1878

Winter Green Estates 500 N. Bryan Road, E-1 Mission, TX 78572 www.wintergreenestate.com (816) 808-0543

Tip O’ Texas RV Resort 101 E. Sioux Road Pharr, TX 78577 www.tipotexasrv.com (956) 787-6461

Winter Springs 1901 N. Glasscock Road Mission, TX 78572 www.peakmhc.com (956) 585-9829

Tropic Star RV Resort 1401 S. Cage Blvd.

Pharr, TX 78577 www.tropicstarrv.com (956) 787-5957

Mission Bell RV Resort 1711 E. Business 83 Mission, TX 78572 www.missionbellrvresort.com (956) 585-4833 Oleander Acres RV Resort 2421 S. Conway Avenue Mission, TX 78572 www.oleanderacres.com (956) 585-9093 Patriot Pointe 1740 E. Business 83, C-1 Mission, TX 78572 www.peakmhc.com (956) 585-6861 Pleasant Valley Resort 7320 W. Expressway 83 Mission, TX 78572 www.pleasantvalleyresort.com (956) 580-2940 Retama Village 2500 S. Bentsen Palm Drive Mission, TX 78572 www.bentsenpalm.com /retama-village (956) 380-6500 x726 Seven Oaks Resort 801 S. Inspiration Road Mission, TX 78572 www.sevenoaksresort.com (956) 581-0068 • 2019-2020

PALMVIEW • • • Bentsen Grove Resort 1645 S. Bentsen Palm Drive, Unit F-43 Palmview, TX 78572 www.bentsengroveresort.com (956) 585-7011 Eldorado Acres 610 N. FM 492 Palmview, TX 78574 www.eldoradoacres.com (956) 581-6718 Green Gate Grove 2135 S. Bentsen Palm Drive Palmview, TX 78572 www.greengategrove.org (956) 581-1932

PHARR • • • Paradise Resort Estates, LLC 301 E. Hall Acres Road Pharr, TX 78577 www.pharrparadiseresort.com (956) 787-1521

• • • 40 • • •

PORT ISABEL • • • Port Isabel Park Center, Inc. 702 Champion Avenue Port Isabel, TX 78578 www.piparkcenter.com (956) 943-7340

SAN BENITO • • • Fun N Sun RV Resort 1400 Zillock Road San Benito, TX 78586 www.funnsunrvresort.com (956) 399-5125 Tropical Trail MH Park 690 N. Oscar Williams Road #25 San Benito, TX 78586 www.tropicaltrailpark.com (956) 393-3186

Continued on Page 42 >>

a publication of Welcome Home RGV

With So Many Activities, You Will Never Be Bored. . .

• Weekly Dances • Billiard Rooms • Live Entertainment • Shuffleboard Courts • Jam Sessions • Horseshoes • Card Room • Library • 2 Petanque Courts • Bocce Ball Fields • 2 Rolle Bolle Courts • Art & Craft Sales • Theme Dances • Bingo • Weekly Soup Supper • Pot Luck Suppers • Organized Trips around Town • Church Bible Study and MUCH, MUCH More !!!

Look on Facebook to See All the Fun We are Having!!!

We will move your Mobile Home or Park Model FREE from anywhere in the Valley to our Community!* *Conditions Apply.

BOH Home Sales Now Open for on-site home sales or rentals!

Call the office for details.

Manager: Scott Campbell Activities Director: Susan Thomas

• Pet Friendly / Dog Park • Active 55+ Resort • FREE Wifi • Indoor Heated Pool & Spa • Outdoor Heated Pool & Spa • Two Recreation Halls w/ A/C • Two Laundromats – 24 Hours • Security Fence • Largest RC Track in the Valley • Spacious Lots - Cement Pads • Complete Hookups w/ Water & Sewer • 50 Amp Electric Service • Cable and Phone Hook Ups • Wide, Paved, Lighted Streets • Private Post Office Boxes • Two New Pickleball Courts

1051 W. Business Hwy 83 • Donna, Texas 78537 Between Donna & Alamo

956-464-5191

We Gladly Accept:

Website: www.bit-o-heaven.net • Email: office@bit-o-heaven.net

Like us on Facebook at our Business Page: “Bit-O-Heaven RV Park” and our “Friends of Bit O Heaven RV Park” Group page www.welcomehomergv.com

• • • 41 • • •

2019-2020 •

RETIREMENT LIVING : Find a Place to Call Home

>>

SOUTH PADRE ISLAND • • • South Padre Island KOA 1 Padre Blvd.

South Padre Island, TX 78597 www.southpadrekoa.com (956) 761-5665

WESLACO • • • Country Sunshine RV Resort 1601 S. Airport Road Weslaco, TX 78596 www.rvonthego.com /country-sunshine-rv-resort (956) 969-1557 John Knox Village of the Rio Grande Valley 1300 S. Border Avenue Weslaco, TX 78596 www.johnknoxvillagergv.com (956) 968-4575

Leisure World 400 E. 18th Street Weslaco, TX 78596 www.leisureworldrvresort.com (956) 968-8412 Pine to Palm Resort Park 802 S. International Blvd.

Weslaco, TX 78596 www.pine2palm.com (956) 968-5760 Ranchero Village 1900 S. Bridge Avenue Weslaco, TX 78596 www.rancherotexas.com (956) 968-6223

Southern Comfort RV Resort 1501 S. Airport Drive Weslaco, TX 78596 www.rvonthego.com /southern-comfort-rv-resort (956) 968-3140 Trails End MH & RV Park 2001 S. Texas Blvd.

Weslaco, TX 78596 www.trailsendrvresort.com (956) 968-5051

Snow to Sun RV Resort 1701 N. International Blvd.

Weslaco, TX 78596 rhprvresorts.com/resorts /tx/en/snow-to-sun.php (956) 968-0322

STORE YOUR RV THIS WINTER

22 Valley Locations!

877-377-7200 www.storagedepot.com

A Brand-New, Resort-Style Park Whether it’s a weekend getaway, or a stop on your way home, you’ll love Buena Vista Wildlife Safari & RV Park, A Natural Wildlife Experience!

• •

1830 S. US HWY 281, Evant, TX 76525

• 2019-2020

• • • 42 • • •

Drive-Thru SafarI Clubhouse

• •

RV Park Cabins

www.buenavistawildlifesafari.com 254-791-5441

a publication of Welcome Home RGV

Find a Place to Call Home : RETIREMENT LIVING

www.welcomehomergv.com

• • • 43 • • •

2019-2020 •

volunteerism

L E T ' S P U T Y O U R TA L E N T S T O G O O D U S E

A

valuable member of the Welcome Home RGV team is our volunteer base. These dedicated individuals personify our mission of engaging with Rio Grande Valley Winter Texans and sharing all the amazing amenities the region has to offer!

The Welcome Home RGV Volunteer Team springs into action at Welcome Home RGV events, such as our Winter Texan Expo and Connection Fair. • Photo credit: Eryn Reddell Wingert

• 2019-2020

• • • 44 • • •

a publication of Welcome Home RGV

Let's Put Your Talents to Good Use : VOLUNTEERISM

WE APPRECIATE OUR VOLUNTEERS

www.welcomehomergv.com

• • • 45 • • •

2019-2020 •

AMENITIES INCLUDE:

Expwy 83

• Security Fence with Automatic Gate • 30’ Wide Paved Streets • FREE Cable & Internet • Swimming Pool & Oversized Spa • Exercise Room • Pickleball court • 24 Court Shuffleboard • 13,000 Sq.Ft. Rec Hall

Bus 83 Mile 4 Rd W

Texas Blvd

FREE!

• Free Lot Rent (For One Year!)

• Free Concrete Drive • Free Skirting & Carport • 1 Free Flat Screen TV • 1 Free 10x10 Storage Shed • Free Washer & Dryer • 1 Free Internet Modem

S Bridge Ave

ACTIVITIES INCLUDE:

• Ceramics • Pool Hall • Wood Carving • Paved RC Racetrack • Billiards, Cards, Crafts • Stained Glass Studio

W 18th St

with purchase of a New Model Home

• 2019-2020

• • • 46 • • •

a publication of Welcome Home RGV

from here to there

Harlingen 28 La Feria 20

Los Fresnos 45 McAllen

8

Mercedes 14 Mission 15

Palmview 18 Penitas 23 Pharr

4

Port Isabel 68

Raymondville 50

Rio Grande City 48 San Benito 34 San Juan

2

South Padre Island 73 Weslaco 10

14

26

24

33 12 60 39 67 70 75 57 23 48

100 20 54 28 44

17

13

16

16

40 13 10 20 23 28 10 64 45 53 30 7

70 4

13

20 40

16 32

20

40

38

56

18

25

26

15

6

22 12 30 32 37 20

32 11 20 21 27 9

62

80

62

52

22 28 21 67 11

42 45

9

35

18 25

42

34

60

50

42

32 41 24 75 6

30

21

19

46

37 24 49 30 67 15 22 54 11

23

28

22

56

51

45

20

38

27

11 84

9

10

11 35 27 51

31

21

61

11

67 49

36

31 21

37

3

41

31

6

16

92 47

15

29

75

12

26

6

26 41

12

51 42 5

80 16

30 20 42 34 60 6

29

32 21 45 37 61 11 31 3

49

16

5

13

9

58

61

66

17 60 5

34 48 12 87 24

30 51 15 90 26

3

19

35 20

24

37

18

62

9

67

42

13 85

45

32

10 82

64

50

19 55

10 20

27

3

5

50

37

31

9

68

57

10 18

23 62 80 41 49 26 75 55 82 85 90 72

41 51 35 58 61 66 48

96

2

70

51

20 95 32

77 14

35 5

60

Welcome Wagon There’s

a new addition to the Welcome Home RGV team… The Welcome Wagon! The Welcome Wagon is packed with fabulous merchandise to help you show off your South Texas pride! Visors, caps, and the extremely popular “This Senorita Needs a Margarita” tee are coming to an event near you! Be on the lookout for the Welcome Wagon at events around the Rio Grande Valley! •

• • • 47 • • •

30

115

Source : www.distance-cities.com

www.welcomehomergv.com

24

43 38

2019-2020 •

30

62

42

27 56

53

22

72

64

34

100

90

48

48

48

64

52 75

27 43

115 96

30

81

70

120

40

7

70

4

21

6

30

45

42

30

10

28

41 34

73

54

15

62

2

20

67 92

Weslaco

46

13

4

75

South Padre Island

40

23

70

San Juan

16

18

67

San Benito

24

15

39

Rio Grande City

17

14

60

Raymondville

14

8

12

Port Isabel

45

33

Pharr

20

26

Penitas

28

64

Palmview

13

46

Mission

64

17

Mercedes

Edinburg 13

Edcouch- Elsa 17

5

48

McAllen

48

Los Fresnos

5

La Feria

Donna

53

Harlingen

Alamo

Brownsville 53

Edinburg

(Listed as Miles )

Edcouch-Elsa

Alamo

Drive Times

Donna

Approximate

Brownsville

R G V D I S TA N C E I N M I L E S

12

11 22 47 5

20

17

51

15

48 56 38

12 20 2

35

70

81

45

30

45

36

57

25

40

51 36 75 12

28

44

67

11

46

19

84 54 31 80 60

21 11 36 16 5

87

24

95

32

90 77 5

70

120 40 75 64

26 14 60 40 57 25 12 64

a warm welcome

M A P O F T H E R I O G R A N D E VA L L E Y

LOCAL CITY ZIP CODES Alamo 78516 Brownsville 78520 Donna 78537 Edcouch-Elsa 78538 Edinburg 78539 Harlingen 78550 La Feria 78559 La Joya 78560 Los Fresnos 78566 McAllen 78501 Mercedes 78570

• 2019-2020

Mission 78572 Palmview 78572 Penitas 78576 Pharr 78577 Port Isabel 78578 Raymondville 78580 Rio Grande City 78582 San Benito 78586 San Juan 78589 South Padre Island 78597 Weslaco 78596

• • • 48 • • •

a publication of Welcome Home RGV

N Map is not to scale © Original Map 2010 Les Johnson All Rights Reserved.

www.welcomehomergv.com

• • • 49 • • •

2019-2020 •

moments in time

2018-2019 SEASON MEMORIES

The Winter Texan season

is action packed, and here is the photographic proof! The Rio Grande Valley offers an amazing array of activities and events from Rio Grande City to South Padre Island (not to mention that our proximity to Mexico allows for exciting excursions to Mexico City for a weekend adventure or afternoons in Nuevo Progresso to sip margaritas.)

The Rio Grande Valley offers everything from relaxing sunsets to a round of golf, line dancing with friends, and so much more! • Photo credit: Eryn Reddell Wingert

• 2019-2020

• • • 50 • • •

a publication of Welcome Home RGV

2018-2019 Season Memories : MOMENTS IN TIME

www.welcomehomergv.com

• • • 51 • • •

2019-2020 •

on the road

WINTER TEXAN REUNION TOUR

Welcome Home RGV ambassadors

visited the Midwest in early September and learned why our beloved Winter Texans return each summer after their stay in the Rio Grande Valley. We fell in love with the region, and we get it now!

The Midwest is beautiful, and the people are incredibly friendly. The Winter Texan Reunion Tour hosted six events in four states, including Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, and Illinois, bringing together current and prospective Winter Texans.

Plans are underway for the second annual event, which will take place in 2020. The Welcome Home RGV team will announce details on our website, welcomehomergv.com, as those plans take shape. Stay tuned! • Photo credit: Eryn Reddell Wingert

Ames, IA

Davenport, IA

• 2019-2020

Cedar Rapids, IA

• • • 52 • • •

a publication of Welcome Home RGV

Winter Texan Reunion Tour : ON THE ROAD

Peoria, IL

Rochester, MN

Rice Lake, WI

THANK YOU TO OUR

SPONSORS www.welcomehomergv.com

• • • 53 • • •

2019-2020 •

tee time in the rgv

GOLF COURSES

Without a doubt, golf courses in the Rio Grande

Valley are a big draw for retirees from across the country and Canada during the winter months.

Because the Valley also has beautiful weather, tee time is available year round. There are golf courses for beginners, pros, and everyone in between. The Valley boasts over 20 18-hole courses and nearly an equal number of 9-hole courses. While most courses are public, some are private. Visit our website (welcomehomergv. com) for more information about great golf courses across the RGV! • Photo credit: Eryn Reddell Wingert (Golf photos) Photo credit: Pollux Castor Photography (Palmview Golf Course, McAllen photo)

• 2019-2020

• • • 54 • • •

a publication of Welcome Home RGV

Golf Courses : TEE TIME IN THE RGV

RIO GRANDE VALLEY G O L F C O U R S E S A L A MO Alamo Country Club.......................... 920 N. Tower Road, Alamo, Texas 78516.................... (956) 787-0907 Short Shot Golf Course ..................... 304 N. Cesar Chavez Road, Alamo, Texas 78516......... (956) 354-2000 Winter Gardens................................ 800 TX-495, Alamo, Texas 78516.............................. (956) 787-7717 B R O W NSVILLE Brownsville Golf Center..................... 1800 W. San Marcelo Blvd., Brownsville, Texas 78520.(956) 541-2582 Rancho Viejo Resort & Country Club.... 1 Rancho Viejo Drive, Brownsville, Texas 78520.......... (956) 350-4000 River Bend Resort & Golf Club............ 4541 US-281, Brownsville, Texas 78520.................... (956) 465-0705 Valley International Country Club........ 2 Country Club Road, Brownsville, Texas 78520........... (956) 546-5331 E D INBURG Ebony Hills Public Golf Course........... 300 W. Palm Drive, Edinburg, Texas 78539................. (956) 381-1244 Los Lagos Golf Club.......................... 1720 S. Raul Longoria Road, Edinburg, Texas 78539.. (956) 316-0444 Monte Cristo Golf & Country Club........ 2919 N. Kenyon Road, Edinburg, Texas 78539........... (956) 381-0964 H A RLINGEN Cottonwood XXI Country Club............. 1001 S. Ed Carey Drive, Harlingen, Texas 78550......... (956) 428-0766 Harlingen Country Club..................... 5500 El Camino Real, Harlingen, Texas 78550............ (956) 412-4100 Stuart Place Country Club.................. 155 Highland Drive, Harlingen, Texas 78550.............. (956) 428-2000 Tony Butler Golf Course..................... 2640 Golf Course Drive, Harlingen, Texas 78550......... (956) 216-5970 Treasure Hills Golf Club.................... 3009 Augusta National Drive, Harlingen, Texas 78550.(956) 425-1700 L A G UNA VISTA South Padre Island Golf Club.............. 1 Ocelot Trail Road Laguna Vista, Texas 78578............ (956) 943-3622 M cA LLEN Adobe Wells................................... 4901 W. Daffodil Avenue, McAllen, Texas 78501......... (956) 686-0850 Palm View Golf Course...................... 2701 S. Ware Road, McAllen, Texas 78501................. (956) 681-3444 M E RCEDES Llano Grande Golf Course.................. E. West Blvd., Mercedes, Texas 78570........................ (956) 565-3351 M I SSION Cimarron Country Club...................... 1200 S. Shary Road, Mission, Texas 78572................ (956) 581-7401 Howling Trails Golf Course................ 1910 Hole in One Drive, Mission, Texas 78572........... (956) 585-6330 Meadow Creek Golf Club................... 1607 Debby Lane Mission, Texas 78572 .................... (956) 581-6262 Mission West Golf............................ 1300 Circle Drive Mission, Texas 78572..................... (956) 581-6267 Shary Municipal Golf Course.............. 2201 N. Mayberry Street, Mission, Texas 78572.......... (956) 580-8770 P HARR Tierra Del Sol Golf Course................. 700 E Hall Acres Road, Pharr, Texas 78577................ (956) 402-4545 WESLACO Tierra Santa Golf Club....................... 1901 Club De Amistad, Weslaco, Texas 78596............ (956) 973-1811 Village Executive Golf Course............ S. FM 1015, Weslaco, Texas 78596............................ (956) 968-6516

www.welcomehomergv.com

• • • 55 • • •

2019-2020 •

• 2019-2020

• • • 56 • • •

a publication of Welcome Home RGV

Present this coupon at any location below

to receive 1 FREE Glazed Donut and Small Coffee or Small Soda.

EDINBURG 1900 W University, Ste #8 956-378-9300 McALLEN 1501 N 10th 956-687-2011

MISSION 2575 Griffin Pkwy, Ste #1 956-271-1006 PHARR 800 S Cage 956-787-0502

One coupon per person per visit at Shipley Donuts stores listed above. 1/20 cent cash redemption value. Offer not valid in combination with any other Shipley Donuts offer. Please present coupon when ordering. Expires 5/31/2020.

BACON BURGER

COMBO

700

$

Live Musi c

Friday and Saturday Nights

MISSION

409 N. Bryan Rd., Ste 105 Mission, TX 78572

956-205-2940

Expires : 3/31/2020

www.ranchhouseburgers.com

1201 S. Jackson Rd., Ste. 7 • 956-630-9752 www.onthegrillrestaurant.com

5 OFF

$

PURCHASE OF $30 OR MORE

BUY ONE ENTREE & 2 DRINKS, GET A SECOND ENTREE

1/2 OFF

OF EQUAL OR LESSER VALUE

Must present coupon. Cannot be combined with other offers. Expires 3/31/20

Expires : 3/31/2020

Buy One Get One

HALF OFF Fish and Chips

9.99

$

No Mix and Match.

Drinks not included. Tax not included.

Now serving Decaf Coffee.

If more than 6 people in your party, please call ahead

Must present coupon.

Cannot be combined with other offers.

www.welcomehomergv.com

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2019-2020 •

• 2019-2020

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a publication of Welcome Home RGV

www.welcomehomergv.com

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2019-2020 •

• 2019-2020

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a publication of Welcome Home RGV