Butterfly garden at Bluebonnet RV prospers
- Details
- Published: Tuesday, 09 February 2021 13:44
Submitted by John Bailey
Did you know Bluebonnet RV Resort has a nationally registered butterfly garden?
The Nationally Registered butterfly garden located at Bluebonnet RV Resort was created in 2020. Countless hours of research and labor went into the creation and the continued daily care of the butterfly garden.
We have flowers, trees and plants that are native to Mexico, Cuba, Jamaica, and several other countries in South America. Every tree and plant that we have planted here were specifically selected to attract butterflies and hummingbirds too.
The butterfly garden has two trellised entrances, both covered with vine growing flowers and followed with patio paver sidewalks to allow guests to walk through the garden and observe the butterflies and various horticulture. As well, we have two wooden glider benches that allow guests to sit and relax in the garden with their favorite book or perhaps to enjoy a cup of coffee and good conversation with a friend.
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
The Open Invitational Pool Tournament for the Rio Grande Valley was recently held. It was hosted by Bentsen Grove Resort and was organized by Claude Lemay. This is the second year for the tournament. Pictured, from left to right, Ken VanSickle, representing Bentsen Grove Resort; third place finisher Len Bangma of Magic Valley in Donna; Winner Stew McCrae of Siesta Village in Weslaco; second place finisher Al Prescott of Eldorado Acres in Palmview; and Claude Lemay organizer.
Bentsen Palm RV Park recently took on a project to help a pet shelter with something they really needed. The park got involved with Cinderella Pet Rescue about four years ago when they learned about the no-kill pet shelter. They learned about the shelter when trying to find somewhere to take stray dogs to – they had a number of stray dogs at the park that needed homes.
The annual Llano Grande Art Show has been set for Sunday, March 8, from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Art Studio, according to the chairperson this year, Mira Smith. The public, as well as all residents of Llano Grande, are welcome to attend the display, visit with the artists, and enjoy wine and cheese as well. 
Future generations will only have libraries, the Internet, or television to connect with music history, but Saxophonist Del Puschert lived it and will be featured in a special interview open to the public on March 7 at 7 p.m. at Paradise Park, 100 E. Hackberry Ave. in McAllen. There is no admission for the event.
By Kathy Olivarez
By Herb Moering
