www.welcomehomergv.com
•••
Welcome Home WINTER TEXAN • • • March 10, 2021
1
We’re just connecting the dots.
VOLUME 6 • ISSUE 21 • March 10, 2021 • • • your official connection to the rio grande valley • • •
hello
GRAB YOUR “WINTER TEXAN TO GO” ISSUE!
FROM KRISTI
It’s
no secret that word of mouth is the number-one reason Winter Texans flock to the Rio Grande Valley each season. I’m sure, if you think about it, most of you heard about South Texas from a friend or family member, and that’s what brought you here. What they probably didn’t tell you was it’s about a 10-hour drive once you hit the Texas state line, no matter which direction you’re coming from! Sure, it’s a drive, but you and I know it’s worth it. Maybe I’m a little biased, but I think you’ll agree with me that you can’t beat the weather, the cost of living, and the camaraderie you find not only amongst fellow Winter Texans but amongst Valleyites, as well. It’s no surprise that we want you here, and we always want you to feel at home in South Texas. We recognize the impact you have on our communities, and we can’t thank you enough for it! In the pages that follow, you’ll find a whole lot of information about our area and all we have planned for next season. I hope you’ll take a few extra copies home with you to share with your friends and family who braved the winter up north so you can show them why the Valley is your winter home and what they’re missing. • We’re just connecting the dots,
Kristi
THANK YOU TO OUR
2020-2021
SEASON SPONSORS
Story by Eryn Reddell Wingert • Photos Special to Welcome Home RGV
W
hen asked ‘Why choose the R.G.V.?’ Karen Price simply states, in her distinct southern drawl, “It’s just fun!” In 1999, after retiring from teaching, Karen and her husband, Jerry, left their home state of North Carolina to travel by R.V. During a stop in Nova Scotia, Canada, they met a couple who raved about South Texas. “They told us we had to come down here; we had no clue.” The Prices came down in 2001, spent three winters here, and eventually became permanent residents, also known as Converted Texans. Karen shares how they have visited other states known for warmer winters but fell in love with the Rio Grande Valley because it’s more economical,
and they wanted to dance. Yes, dance. “All we knew was South Carolina beach music, the shag. We wanted to learn the Texas two-step.” When the Prices made the decision to enjoy the local amenities year-round, they found their permanent home at Sunshine Country Club Estates in Harlingen when they visited for a dance. The Rio Grande Valley, or RGV, is located at the southern tip of Texas, bordering Mexico. The region is made-up of four counties: Starr, Hidalgo, Willacy, and Cameron. It’s home to approximately 300 RV parks and resorts. The cost of living tops the list of its many appealing WHY THE RGV? CONTINUED ON PAGE 4 >>