Blankets for Veterans spreads to Valley
Blankets for Veterans, a non-profit organization created by a 17-yr-old in Wisconsin, has made it to a local Valley Winter Texan park this season. Park resident Kathy Hanson is the proud grandmother of Aubree Leitermann, the founder of the organization. Leitermann, who visited Heier recently, was able to give some of the blankets that were made by Heier, and others, to Veterans in the park.
Speaking of Leitermann, Hanson says she has always been interested in how people were making big differences doing small, simple good deeds.
The Winter Texan Times is all about you, what you do, and where to go. With that being said, we enjoy hearing from you, and we want to hear more.
According to the New York Times, tennis, a socially distanced outdoor sport, has experienced a tremendous revival during the coronavirus pandemic. Along with golf, tennis is a safe, socially distanced activity that offers great exercise and competitive outdoor activity. In Aladdin Villas, in Mission, tennis had been difficult to attract a lot of players the past few years. But during the pandemic, interest and the number of players at the park have nearly doubled. But there is always room for more. Tennis anyone? Pictured are Maggie Leach (Server), Ben Ogg, Bob Tenyeck and Cathy Main. Submitted by Jerry Butcher.
To continue some fun at Oleander Acres, Tammy Garrison-Maier, activity director, hid several pots of gold around her park to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day. Residents were slowly finding the little black pots with some gold in them. As the pots of gold were, Tammy gave gift certificates for Krispy Kreme and other gifts. Last month Tammy hid painted rocks throughout the park. These pots of gold are not as easy to find though – there were not as many hidden. Pictured receiving their gift certificate are Harvey and Jane Diehl from Valley Center, Kansas.
By Barb Zanetti
It was beautiful weather last Tuesday. Simply perfect weather for a little bit of gospel outside on the Fun N Sun parking lot. There was a slight breeze and nearly no clouds in the sky. People had gathered in their golf carts or lawn chairs to see Rusty Rierson, Ralph Kuster and Lindley Creek. They had also gathered to help raise money for some especially important organizations.
Submitted by John Bailey
It’s that time of year again when many of us start making New Year’s resolutions. After a tumultuous 2020, it may be more imperative than ever to strive for physical, mental, and emotional balance. 
What is Thanksgiving without a parade? Mission Bell/Tradewinds RV Resort added some holiday flavor to their residents’ Thanksgiving Day with a holiday parade. The parade was led by Park Managers, Scot and Cynthia Swafford with rousing Christmas Band music. They were followed by various golf carts celebrating the holiday season. First prize for decorating was the final entry in the parade with Santa Claus (Joe Wirkus) and the Thanksgiving Turkey (Pat Scott). This entry was constructed by Ron Kooima and Scot Swafford. Candy was distributed by Santa to the enthusiastic park residents. Second prize went to Jim and Judy Sonnetag for their entry decorated for Thanksgiving and Christmas. Third prize went to Anita Harder and Theresa Hoff for their depiction of a smoked turkey. The park’s first Thanksgiving Parade added a joyful introduction to the holiday season, and they are already looking forward to doing it again next year. Happy Thanksgiving and Merry Christmas to all!
We all know Winter Texans contribute a great deal to the Rio Grande Valley during their winters with us. They often donate to local charities, help schools with school supplies, donate time to shelters and animal rescues, gather food during the holidays for people here and in Mexico, and they make quilts and other items for those in need.
By Herb Moering 
Bentsen Palm RV Park recently showed their appreciation of its residents by holding special events all week. Events included boat races, special get togethers, and an Amazing Race. 
As Winter Texans begin to think about their return trip to the north, the residents of LaFloresta Park in Mercedes geared up for the final two golf tournaments of the season: The Handicapped Tournament and the Championship Tournament. Everyone in the park is invited to participate in golf activities, from beginner to advanced golfer. Winter Texans enjoy the challenging par-three golf course. And there is always the secret wish for a hole-in-one. The park had nine this year!
By Tony Ozark
