From the barren locales of the Northend to the plush grounds of the Valley’s resorts and golf courses, the steady migration of snowbirds has been slowly changing the local landscape in ways we all welcome this time of year.
Whether one is a business owner whose establishment is frequented by the visitors, or simply a resident who looks forward to catching up with an out-of-state friend, the snowbirds’ arrival always seems to boost local spirits. And, let’s be honest, local coffers too.
But, certainly that is not the only thing that makes winter visitors endearing. For those who have the benefit of close interaction with our snowbirds, there is no doubt that their lives are enriched by time spent together. We also like to think that the snowbirds themselves, no matter where they happen to hail from, also get a kick out of the colorful characters that populate the Valley.
It is also telling that rather than simply letting winter visitors isolate themselves upon arrival, attempts are made to draw them into our fold. One only needs to think of the lasting friendships that have been forged over the years between locals and winter visitors to understand the importance of such interaction.
That’s why the Welcome Winter Visitors Pancake Breakfast, an annual event presented by the El Centro Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Bureau, also is something we look forward to. Typically more than 1,000 snowbirds attend the event, which this year is scheduled for Saturday. And judging from comments over the years, snowbirds aren’t simply showing up for the pancakes and ham, although they are an incentive.
What has become evident over the years is that aside from the enviable weather, winter visitors are equally impressed by the local hospitality they find here. One can’t help but feel a certain pride upon hearing a snowbird comment that they prefer the Valley to a number of other nearby locales that similarly offer respite from the type of freezing winter they leave behind.
So, on behalf of Valley residents everywhere, we welcome our snowbirds back once again.
THE ISSUE:
Valley’s winter visitors.
WE SAY:
Welcome back, friends.
WHAT DO YOU SAY?
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