Our Winter Texans Are On the Way

La Feria Offers a Warm Winter Home

It is that time again when the leaves start turning and the temperatures begin to plunge up North. It is also the clear signal for shivering Midwesterners and snow-bound Canadians to load up for their annual trek to warmer climes. The Rio Grande Valley and La Feria are high on the list of desirable winter destinations–because, when it’s miserable up North, it’s delightful here in the Valley.

This annual influx of cars bearing out-of-state license plates has already begun in earnest. And are we glad! La Feria has had a long-time love affair with our Winter Texans who prefer to spend their winters with us. This seasonal increase in our population contributes to the local scene in many ways. These visitors bring their culture, their activities and their personalities to our streets. They enthusiastically support our winter events and our businesses in a huge, very visible way.

LA FERIA NEWS met with City Manager Sunny Philip to learn more about city plans for this winter season. “I can speak for the city administration and our citizens when I say, ‘we love them,’” he said. “While they are with us, we count them as family members.”

The City Manager noted that visitors from the northern states and Canada add to the local scene by bringing their culture, customs and language with them. Church attendance swells and local merchants and restaurants appreciate the additional business they bring.

Sunny Philip added that “they come to play and participate in things like the Christmas Parade and the February Fiesta de La Feria.” While in town, many volunteer their time and energy to help the community in large numbers. Some volunteer to aid the Fire Department and Police Department, still others, volunteer at local libraries and hospitals.

“The winter visitors will also enjoy the recently completed 1-mile walks at the La Feria Sports Complex and the Nature Park on South Rabb Road,” he said, adding, “the Nature Park is a good site for bird watching, too.”

Post Commander Harlan Lucas said many of the Winter Texans are veterans of various wars, and find that they and their wives enjoy getting involved in the activities of the local American Legion post #439. “They are all welcome.”

The ladies at Kenwood RV Park said they have a full slate of events for their guests. They include Bingo, Movies, Breakfasts and the Care and Share Quilting Party. This is a 20-year tradition according to Phyllis Miles. “We make about 200 quilts each season and give them away to charities and hospitals,” she said. The park has several events open to the public—check them out.

LA FERIA VIP RV Park has weekly activities for their guests. They include aerobic classes, Bingo, Crafts Karaoke, Horseshoes and the big annual parkwide Garage Sale in February. Annie Perkins, office staff member, and Ruth Dearinger, Park Manager, said to remind the folks that some of the events are open to the public.

So, there you are, pardner (little Texas lingo): It’s looking like another good winter season for South Texas and the Valley. Everyone says: “Come and join the fun.”