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winter Texan news headlines. News for Texas visitors
The Turtles of Padre IslandOnce abundant and productive, turtles in general, especially the Kemp's ridley, have declined to the point of endangerment. But great effort is being made to save the turtles. And the effort is paying off! Discover more about South Padre Island's Sea Turtle, Inc., and discovered how helping nature can make a difference. Save the turtles and save the world! Isn't that how it goes? MORE
Bike Time in Texas!This winter, don't forget to pack your bicycle! Texas has some of the finest riding trails and events in the nation and there is no better way to get acquainted with the Lone Star State than from the seat of a two-wheeler. Discover some of the best bike in Texas in the Texas Hill Country, a perfect way to experience the wildflower blooms and take in the pristine river environment of the Texas hills! MORE
The Valley Butterflies Are Back!South Texas in the Spring becomes a kaleidoscope of color and natural wonderment with the return and birth of a wide spectrum of butterflies. Often called nature's flying flowers, these beautiful creatures not only grace the landscape with their beauty but play a very important role in the balance of the environment. After all, if it wasn't for the butterflies and bees, we wouldn’t have any of that scrumptious Rio Grande Valley citrus fruit - or hundreds of other species of flowers and vegetation we enjoy in our subcortical climate. MORE
How Close Is Too Close For Comfort?While most Texas residents were unaware of the danger (and most of the world population-at-large), NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory, the California Institute of Technology, is reporting Earth escaped a near-miss from a rampant asteroid in early March that could have caused catastrophic consequences had it impacted the planet, especially if the space rock had hit areas of high-density population. MORE
Getting To Know The Texas OysterHow well do you know the Texas oyster? Don't get to know him too well, because he's just too plain good to eat! The Rockport-Fulton Annual Oysterfest Celebration (March 5 - 8, 2009) has long been a project of the Fulton Volunteer Fire Department. This 30th annual fund-raiser includes oyster-eating contests, oyster-shucking contests, live music, carnival rides, arts and crafts and unique vendors. The event is located at the waterfront in Fulton. MORE
How the Gov. and BB Thinks...The impending financial failure of Wal Street and much of the national and international financial banking system has the nation reeling in confusion and damage control. What's this about billions of dollars in executive bonuses when the system is failing? What's this about a government bailout that - effectively - means nothing more than Americans paying for the mistakes - and profits - of others. We figured it out, and now take an allegorical look at a pair of parables that explain it all - rather simple actually. Enjoy!
"Something just ain't right with government" -- Will Rogers -- MORE
Charro Days!Border Fiesta
Visitors to the lower Texas border in February this year will discover the charm and tradition of Brownsville's Charro Days and it's sister-celebtration, the Sombrero Festival, when the cities of both Brownsville and Matamoros, Mexico - directly across the border - let their hair down and join in a joint, bi-cultural celebration that has thrilled and entertained locals and visitors alike since the early 19th century. MORE
SPI Kite FestIt's that time of year again. You can look into the sky and see flying birds and butterflies, cats and dogs, geckos and lobsters, fish and octopi. The 9th Annual SPI Kite Fest, sponsored by B&S Kites, is scheduled for Jan. 31 -Feb. 1. The festival runs Saturday & Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on the flats just north of the Convention Centre on South Padre Island. Admission is free and the public is invited to enjoy the spectacular kite displays, performances, demos, free lessons and more. MORE
King of Citrus! Get ready to celebrate the fruits of the Rio Grande Valley January 29 when the annual Texas Citrus Fiesta kicks off in Mission with more events, a bigger parade, much pageantry, and a whole lot of fruit and fun on tap in the biggest celebration of Texas citrus in the world. MORE
The Very Best Home RemediesHome remedies. Just about everyone has one. That doesn’t mean they all work - or any of them for that matter. But review our collection of home remedies we discovered while researching this article. We didn’t try them, and don’t recommend you do without further research. But we offer them up for your entertainment value. Have fun. MORE
Polar Bear Dip Set For SPIThe Whiting Street Polar Bear Club of South Padre Island is hosting their 11th Annual New Years Polar Bear Dip on South Padre Island at noon Thursday (New Year's Day) behind Boomerang Billy's on the Beach. Last years event was a huge success with hundreds of locals and visitors alike plunging into perhaps the coldest waters of any New Years dip to date. The water temperature last year hovered at around 62 degrees. In contrast, on Wednesday this week, New Year's Eve, the water temperature was hovering near the 72 degree mark, practically a sauna for our winter visitors. MORE
10th Annual Ocelot FestivalHighly endangered in the United States and rarely seen in the wild, the Texas ocelot is a magificent creature by any standard. Once abundant and healthy, these creatures are now hanging onto the thread of continued existence, in danger of extinction as civilization crowds further into the backwoods of Nature's realm. MORE
Mexico's River of Raptors
Imagine the rarity of being able to watch a pair of gilded hawks or osprey soaring above a tropical waterfall, surrounded by pristine jungle, riding the thermal currents in grace and glory, circling first up then down, demonstrating their prowess and aerial agility and determined might. The thought conjures visions of the wild outdoors; one of peace and serenity watching one of nature’s great raptors exercise their natural freedom and dominance of the skies. MOREWinter RVers Return in Numbers
Several Texas campgrounds that cater to winter visitors are already booked up for the 2008-2009 winter camping season, and many others are filling up quickly, according to the Texas Association of Campground Owners (TACO). “Winter reservations for campgrounds and RV resorts in Texas are as strong as they’ve ever been. MORESURVIVOR: BLACK FRIDAY
With Black Friday looming a few days away, we thought we might offer a "Survivor's Guide" to the big event. Those of you that are a fan of the Survivor TV show might relate to these survival tips. We say that because surviving Black Friday is, in many ways, similar to surviving the quirky TV reality show. Black Friday shoppers, after all, need to be as prepared as survivor TV show contestants, because if they aren't, like unprepared TV contestants, there's little chance in winning the big prize. And winning the big prize after all, is what Black Friday shopping is all about! MORETURKEY STUFF(ing) & MORE
With Thanksgiving just around the corner, we thought we would make certain you got your fill of turkey. So here's some "Turkey Stuff" you might find entertaining and, who knows, maybe informative. It's our special salute to the holiday, and a time to relax and 'let go' a little in the spirit of a true festival. Here's hoping all your Thanksgivings will be bright and full of stuff(ing)... MORESundance PARADE of LIGHTS
The Chesapeake Energy Parade of Lights in Fort Worth rings in the holidays Friday, Nov. 28 with a glittering procession of floats, music, marchers and good cheer that will set the city’s heart aglow. The 26th annual parade, themed “The Sights and Sounds of the Season,” is a sparkling promenade of illuminated floats, marching bands and marching groups that light up the night for all who need a little Christmas the day after Thanksgiving. MORERGV Bird Fest On Tap This Week
The changing season has once again brought back millions of migratory birds to the Rio Grande Valley of Texas, and the upcoming RGV Birding Festival in Harlingen showcases the annual return with special tours, seminars and birding opportunities for those wanting to get outdoors to enjoy the mild weather the Valley has to offer. The 15th Annual Rio Grande Valley Birding Festival promises to be as rewarding and memorable as ever with a full schedule of field trips, workshops, seminars, keynote lectures, children's programs, and a trade show. MOREValley Gas Prices Best In Nation?
Pump prices have been falling at convenience stores and fuel stops all across Texas, and especially in the Rio Grande Valley, a surprising trend at a time when consumer prices are skyrocketing for just about everything from insurance to ice cream. Analysts say that decreased demand for gasoline is the reason for lower gas prices, driven by the economic crisis. Prices this week in Harlingen slipped to $1.95 a gallon for regular unleaded fuel. MORE Historic Broadcast RememberedFor several years running now, we have presented this feature about the historic original broadcast of Orson Welles' adaptation of H.G. Wells "War of the Worlds". It has become a favorite of our readers, both nostalgic radio buffs and the average Joe & Jane looking for a themed program in the Halloween season. MORE
Lower Pump Prices Are Welcome SightWinter visitors to the Lone Star State this year may benefit from falling gas prices at the pump, a welcome development for RV owners and fifth wheel travelers. As the U.S. and world economy continues to falter amid Wall St. woes and banking problems, the demand for fuel has declined in recent weeks, pushing supplies greater than usual and having an affect on pump prices nationwide. MORE
Oktoberfest in Texas this Year!The fall and harvest season is celebrated all over the world in thousands of different cultural celebrations. Outside of Germany, the largest Oktoberfest celebrations in the world are held in -- you guessed it -- Texas! Find out where to spend your Oktoberfest this year in the Lone Star State! MORE
Time for the Texas State Fair!Everyone enjoys a good fair, and it doesn't get any better than at the 2007 State Fair of Texas.
Plenty of live entertainment, interactive exhibits, lots of food, a special NBA Fair, livestock show and exhibits -- you'll find them all at the Texas State Fair. MORE
The Haunted Yacht Club HotelIt was the late 1920s and prohibition was in full swing. The new Yacht Club Hotel in Port Isabel had just opened, a high society, high roller facility that offered pleasures on the remote Texas frontier. Guests came from all over the country to enjoy freedom from social censorship and enjoyed the pursuits of the Texas tropics. But at least two of those early guests who checked in, never checked out, and from time to time you can still find them there. MORE
South Padre Music Fest Will Be A Halloween Treat With Willie & BoysThe South Padre International Music Festival (SPI Music Fest) announced today the initial lineup for the 2008 festival, which will take place October 31st through November 2nd on the beautiful beaches of South Padre Island, TX. The lineup for this year’s fest includes Willie Nelson, Foghat, Los Lonely Boys, Blue Oyster Cult, Ghostland Observatory, Alejandro Escovedo, Fastball, Sara Hickman and others. Where better than to spend your Halloween weekend than by attending the famous "Day of the Dead" Festival in Port Isabel and hanging out for the music fest. MORE
2008 UTPA Winter Texan SurveyWinter visitors to Texas are both unique and interesting. Discovering the warm climate and abundant seasonal offerings of the Lone Star State, they flock to the five primary regions of Texas each year and are a welcome site to local residents who have come to enjoy their annual pilgrimage and to greet, once again, the many friends they have made down through the years - and to welcome any and all newcomers. But where do they come from? How long do they stay? What motivates them to ghrace Texas with their annual pilgrimage? The University of Texas-Pan AMerican conducts special studies to answer their questions, and the news survey is just out! . MORE
Valley Citrus DamagedValley residents looking forward to a new year of sweet, Texas citrus fruit may be in for a shock. Hurricane Dolly's destructive winds have destroyed much of the fruit and in Valley orchards in Bayview and near the coast, claiming as much as 20% of the entire Valley's 2008 crop. But producers say there will still be lots fresh oranges and grapefruit this harvest. MORE
Valley RV Parks WellHurricane Dolly ravaged large parts of coastal areas of South Texas causing heavy damage. But area RV park owners and operators report most of the damage they received as a result of the storm has already been repaired, and say they are not only ready but anxious for the start to the winter travel season. MORE
The Search For AmeliaPioneer, innovator, explorer, daring adventurer - Amelia (Millie) Earhart is a woman that will long be remembered for her daring flight adventures. Yet, Millie is still missing, and the search continues. Get the latest info on the search and explore Millie's last flight. MORE
Valley Flights SparedIn spite of major cutbacks in service and heavy lay offs of airline personnel, officials at Rio Grande Valley airports say Continental Airline's announcement last week that it is downsizing service nationwide will not effect the company's service in the Rio Grande Valley. MORE
What's in a Billion?When it comes to the federal budget, how many times have we heard, "It's just a few billion dollars?" Well, don't kid yourself. A billion dollars is a lot of money! If you don't think so, ponder this: a few carefully selected examples of just a billion is... MORE
Scottish FestivalCalling all Highlanders! Almost as old the Olympic Games, the Highland Games have been around about as long as the Scottish. Get ready for the Scottish Festival and World Games in Arlington. Don't miss them! MORE
Summer RV TripsMost winter Texans spend so much time living in the RV during the winter season that they often shy away from summer travel. But the truth is, any good RV needs a little exercise in the 'off' season. Review a few of our favorite picks and get ready to roll. MORE
Memorial Day HistoryAs Memorial Day rolls around this year many of us will be celebrating the start of the summer season. But let us not forget! The long Memorial Day weekend is traditionally a time for trips to the beach, barbecues in the backyard, and dozens of other activities. But there's more... MORE
60th ShrimporeeLabeled the Largest Shrimp Festival in Texas, the Aransas Pass Shrimporee has been serving up delicious Gulf Shrimp for more than half a century. And anyone that knows Aransas Pass knows the Shrimporee is as important to the locals as Independence Day is to the Nation. Discover Texas Oldest Shrimp Festival. MORE
Texas Crab FestJust a quick car ferry trip across east Galveston Bay and you find yourself on Bolivar Peninsula and in the community of Crystal Beach, one of the best places to get great Texas seafood - including crabs. Being staged over Mother's Day weekend (May 9-11), visitors will have three days of fun for all ages. MORE
Texas TalkIt's been called strange, abnormal, different - even terribly inappropriate. And while that may be true, every Texan will be quick to tell you it's one of the things that make Texans unique. Have a little fun learning to speak Texan! MORE
Pirate Days ReturnJust a few short centuries ago real pirates cruised the Texas coastline in search of Spanish treasure ships or commercial frigates loaded with goods to and from the New World. Now, the Town of South Padre Island is bringing back a tradition, a weekend celebration of their pirate heritage. MORE
Corpus Christi BirdsThe best city for birding in the nation will be determined in early June after hundreds of avid birders from around the country count the number of species seen from April 1 - May 31. But Corpus Christi is hoping to capture the honor again. MORE
By vacationing in Texas during the "off season," you can take advantage
of better prices without compromising the quality of your experience or
accommodations. Timeshare rentals often cost hundreds less than
renting hotel rooms and also offer additional space and amenities.
Along the Gulf Coast - where temperatures rarely drop below 50 degrees
in the winter- Galveston timeshare is a great choice because of
the wide array of activities the town has to offer. Tour Galveston's
1,500 restored historic homes, or visit Moody Garden's Aquarium Pyramid,
home to 8,000 species of tropical fish.
Full of BlarneyTexas may be a great distance from the fabled Emerald Isle of Ireland, but the truth be told, Irish roots run deep in the Lone Star State, including the story of how a piece of the fabled Irish Blarney Stone made it's way to Lubbock. MORE
Painful But TrueYou must give the human race credit, for we are, without question, the most intelligent species on Earth. We have created beautiful pieces of art, have expressed our creativity through music and language and science. We can reach out to the stars with our space program. But for all our worth, we can be the grandest idiots in the universe. MORE
Tips For Senior HealthSpring is a good time of year for health tips designed to get you off the couch and into the gym or the great outdoors. For mature adults, these tips range from the helpful to the downright dangerous. Get on the road to healthy living with this step-by-step guide to healthy living. MORE
It's New Year Again?It happens every year on the second New Moon following the winter solstice. It’s the Chinese New Year, calculated strictly on astronomical events and not influenced by the Pope or the King or Congress, or any of the whims of man. Get ready to celebrate - again. MORE
Forgive Our MisprintsThey say that to err is human, and there is certainly a lot of truth in that! But sometimes our mistakes are more embarrassing than other times. Take for instance your average Sunday church bulletin. You might need to sit down before reading this -- or run the risk of falling down laughing! MORE
Patriotic Glen MillerWithout a doubt, the Glen Miller Orchestra is considered to be one of America's favorite Big Bands, and Corpus Christi fans on the famous orchestra are gearing up for a "concert to remember" on Feb. 12, a patriotic salute to America on Abraham Lincoln's birthday.MORE
Matamoros AttractionsIf you're planning on crossing the border this year, take a closer look at the many attractions of Matamoros, Mexico, the sister city of Brownsville on the very tip of Texas. Great museums, a historic theatre and more await for the border traveler. MORE
The Mound BuildersNear the town of Alto in Cherokee County, an ancient people lived and built cities made of mounds, living in round, grass-type huts, farming their corn, gathering fruits and berries. Discover the influence of the Caddos in Texas with a visit to Caddo Mounds State Historical Park in East Central Texas. MORE
Top Ten GiftsSo you've just arrived in Texas for your annual winter season getaway, You know loved ones back home are fighting off old Jack Frost. There might be just a tinge of sympathy lurking in your mind for those you've left behind. Why not send a bit of Texas back to them for the Holidays? MORE
Remembering PearlIt was the battle that put America into the second World War, a well-planned secret attack on the U.S. Naval station at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, and a day that will long be remembered inside and outside the history book as a "day of darkness", when the clouds of war gathered on a clear South Pacific morning. MORE
Let You Light Shine!Oh, okay! I've had my moment of grumpiness about the fast approaching holiday. I have mumbled under my breath when stores started putting up Christmas decorations before I could buy my last minute Halloween candy. But my attitude is changing. I am losing my grinch and regaining my holiday spirit - and you can too! Call it a miracle or not - but this might work for you. MORE
Truth About TGAs we grow older we tend to lose touch with certain parts of our memories. At least that's a nice way of saying, the older we get, the more we forget. Ib case you're having a hard time remembering that first Thanksgiving, check in here for birefing designed to kick the cob webs out of your brain. MORE
Fall Weather FoodsAutumn. It’s the time of year for cooler weather, football, and social get-togethers around a campfire. The holidays are quickly approaching, and our thoughts begin to turn to festive and tasty fall foods. Get ready for these fall food recipes and make your table and little brighter for the season! MORE
Ghosts of Fort BrownHistoric Fort Brown is a landmark of Rio Grande Valley history. Wars have been fought there. During the years Yellow Fever, thousands of bodies were buried under what is now UTB-TSC campus. Most of the students are there for an education; some because they can't leave. MORE
A-MaizingThe Rio Grande Maize in Mercedes is proving to the hi-tech world that agri-tainment is fun for everyone. Pumpkins lay ripe in the field, the corn is ready for harvest, and Halloween is just a few days away, and the McCutchen family of Mercedes have brought the “MAiZE craze” back. MORE
BorderGhost TownOnce buried beneath the waters of South Texas' Falcon Lake, Mexico's colonial jewel, Guerrero Viejo, now a ghost town, glistens again in the warm Chihauhuan sun. But now only the skeletal remains of the once great city can be seen again. MORE
Rockport's SEAFAIR For 32 years now the residents of Rockport on the Coastal Bend of Texas have been staging a celebration of the sea. When Seafair kicks off Oct. 5-7 this year, it will mark the 33rd successful year of a celebration that is all about life on the sea. MORE
Fall DestinationsAs the summer season slowly changes to Fall in Texas, followed quickly by a new winter Texan travel season, many are preparing their travel itineraries now in anticipation of a fruitful year. Discover Five Great fall and winter destinations to add to your list of places to visit this year! MORE
Cowboy Up in TexasCowboy up at a special event dedicated to the American West! The life and times of the American Cowboy will be celebrated in Lubbock at the National Cowboy Symposium and Celebration, an event you don't want to miss. The event, now in its 19th year, is a part of an American folklore revival. MORE
VISIONSSome of us are from Mars and some us are from Venus - right? Well, that's what some would have us believe. Take note girls! It's a special women's weekend out when "VISIONS, The Women's Expo" gets underway in Dallas. MORE
Nostalgic CinemaTexans love their movies whether it be a first run blockbuster or small independent film. But few movie houses in the Lone Star State have taken that passion and turned movie viewing into an interactive experience. Learn more about how the Golden Days of cinema are returning. MORE
FRIDAY THE 13THFor a long time we have been told that Friday the Thirteenth was an unlucky day. But who says? For some the 13th is a lucky day, and a lucky number. So what's the big deal about Friday the 13th? Discover the truth! MORE
Betcha You Didn't Know This! Test your July 4th skills and learn more about America's favorite holiday! You might be surprised to learn how little you know! And Happy Independence Day! MORE
OI Helps TroopsIt's a lonely job; a dangerous one. Put yourself in the scene. It's 120-degrees and you're loaded down with heavy gear. You're 7,000 miles away from home and family. Danger lurks around every bend in the road. You're birthday has come and gone, and Christmas and Father's Day too. Discover OP OI can help. MORE
State Parks of TexasEvery Texan knows the state parks are great places to commune with nature, and just the perfect place to set up camp and feel the comfort and economy of RVing. Discover state parks perfect for your next camping adventure. MORE
Cowboy RoundupGet ready for Amarillo's Cowboy Roundup USA and the Chuckwagon Roundup cook off! The Coors Ranch Rodeo will pit famous Texas ranches and their crews against other! MORE
Legislation: WT TaxesWinter Texans who nest in the Rio Grande Valley each winter have a friend in State Senator Eddie Lucio. Lucio is saying he will support legislation that will put an end to "loopholes" in state law that allows counties to charge winter Texans taxes on their RVs. MORE
Fresh Fruit/VeggiesIf you're looking for fresh farm raised fruits and vegetables, look no further! You'll find bountiful fresh foods at road stands all across Texas. This weekend, for example, is a great time to get fresh, sweet, vine-ripened Poteet strawberries. Soon it's peach-pickin' time in Fredericksburg. Get out and get fresh food in Texas! MORE
LBJ WildflowersSpring is here and wildflowers grace the state in every region. But what should you plant in your corner of Texas? That question and more can be answered at the upcoming Spring Plant Sale and Show. MORE
Welcome To ParisBut what is that on the peak of the tower -- a cowboy hat? Darn tootin', because this Eiffel Tower is located in Paris, Texas, and while not as tall and majestic as its counterpart in France, at least Texans have found a good use for it. MORE
AWSO Sets SailFor 50 years the American Wind Symphony Orchestra has toured America and the world. And now they are coming back to Texas in late April in Port Isabel/Brownsville. The tour will conclude at Yale University as the orchestra participates in the university's “Arts and Ideas” celebration in mid-June. MORE
Tower at ShamrockThe U Drop Inn Conoco Station was constructed on Route 66 back in the 50s and travelers along the famous Mother Road had a place to fill both their gas tanks and their bellies with a delicious homestyle food. Discover the Tower at Shamrock and step back in time. MORE
Remember the RepublicMarch 2 is Texas Independence Day, a time when Texans pause to consider their colorful and often troublesome past, Discover more about Texas Independence and find a celebration near to you, MORE
U-boats in the GulfNot every day has been a day in paradise along the Texas coast. Unknown to many, in the early days of U.S. involvement in World War II, German U-boats clouded Gulf waters MORE
Texas From Above!Try flying the friendly skies over Texas. There are Hot Air Balloon companies in every corner of the Lone Star State, and you'll simply fall in love with Texas in a whole new way -- and your sweetheart too! Get out and get up in Texas and discover the Lone Star State from above. By the way, the hot air is provided! MORE
The Last FerryIt's the last remaining government licensed hand operated ferry anywhere on the U.S. border - the Los Ebanos Crossing. Discover the colorful and often violent history of the landmark crossing in the Texas Valley. MORE
The Texas Pecan!It' s brown and only one or two inches long, sweet and buttery, and Texans wouldn't dream of having a holiday without them. Discover the legacy of the Texas pecan, explore a couple of traditional pecan recipes, and get ready for a nutty holiday season. MORE
Chinati Hot SpringsIt's not a place you're likely to find by accident. Even if you're looking for it, it's no easy task. But the healing waters of Chinati Hot Springs, the dry arid environment of the Chihuahuan Desert, and the blissful isolation of Deep West Texas combine to create a mythical appeal that continues to lure the adventurous . MORE
Hill Country GetawaysThe Texas Hill Country is a perfect getaway destination for active travelers looking for a little outdoor fun. Discover ten great Hill Country adventures waiting to happen and enjoy the summer! From clear running rivers to pristine Hill Country environment to historic sites and many state and regional parks, there's something for everyone in this getaway. Hit the road and discover the heart of Texas. MORE
Romance on the CoastCorpus Christi is one of the most underrated cities in all of Texas. With a hint of metropolitan savoir-faire and full of Texas savvy, it's the perfect place to spend your honeymoon or to escape for a lover's retreat. Discover La Villa Casita in the historic district of the Sparkling City by the Bay and explore the attractions of the Coastal Bend of Texas. World birding, great restaurants, wonderful beaches and lots of culture. Discover Corpus Christi and discover the good life. MORE
"BIG TREE" TalksJust imagine the stories this 1,000-plus year old tree could tell if it could talk. Or maybe it did. Get the full skinny on this remarkable and award winning live oak tree. Get ready for a pleasant coastal getaway to meet the champion live oak of Texas - BIG TREE. MORE
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