Your Connection to the Rio Grande Valley
Those of you who know me realize I’m not afraid to look in the review mirror. I need to know what’s behind me in order to celebrate the things that turned out great and learn from what didn’t necessarily go as planned. Of course I spend more time looking ahead, which includes planning, creating, and developing. That part is always fun because we get to have all of you in mind while we’re doing it. Living in the present is especially great for me this time of year because I get to hang out with you and see how all of that planning and creating after last season looks in action. I can hardly wait to see how combining the Winter Texan Expo with the Entertainer Showcase at the McAllen Convention Center next Tuesday and Wednesday turns out. I have a feeling it’s going to be just like the team imagined. (And maybe even better!) Next Thursday, we’ll be in Brownsville for our Winter Texan Expo in the Lower Valley. This was the result of our “creating and developing” sessions, and it is definitely a keeper. 2025 is already well underway, and Welcome Home RGV is leading the way to lots of fun for all of you. After all, we want you to keep coming back—and bringing your family and friends!
See you next week!
Champion Horseshoe Pitcher in Our Midst
Pitching horseshoes is a game of warriors. The sport dates back to the Roman Empire, according to the National Horseshoe Pitching Association’s (NHPA) website, horseshoepitching.com, which references “soldiers pitched horseshoes discarded from the horses used to drive their chariots.”
There’s a warrior right here in the Rio Grande Valley-at Tip O’ Texas in Pharr. Tom Routh, who spends seven months a year here with his wife, Patricia, is a state, national, and world horseshoe pitcher champion.
Routh played casually and even organized company picnic games before taking part in his first tournament; he placed second and was hooked.
Routh won his first world trophy in 1997, and at 81, he’s still pitching. “I just like to do it,” he says explaining how,
The Tropic Star Horseshoe Court during the 2023 Golden Age Olympics Horseshoe Tournament.* Photo by Eryn Reddell Wingert
Tom Routh lines up a pitch..
Photo courtesy: Tom Routh
by Eryn Reddell Wingert
Photos by Eryn Reddell Wingert and courtesy of Tom Routh
in his home state of Kansas, “people in rural areas put a couple points in their yard and pitch on Sundays or whenever.”
That’s exactly what Routh does at Tip O’ Texas, except his “whenever” is every day in his backyard court.
“It’s like bowling or any other handeye sport; repetition and practice,” he says.
Each day after he walks two miles, he pitches 200 horseshoes. “It’s something I can do, and if health lets me pitch, I’ll pitch.”
It pays off. Routh took first place in Texas last October and is currently ranked in the top 10 nationally in the Elder Men 30Foot Division.
The NHPA awards patches for various wins and accomplishments. Routh says he averages four to eight patches, with two state
championships under his belt.
His highest sanctioned ringer game was a 90% , which means 90% of the horseshoes he pitched encircled the stake.
One of the first years he pitched in a Golden Age Olympics tournament--hosted annually by the City of McAllen--Routh says organizers confused his average, 75% at that time, for his age.
It’s the camaraderie, good-natured rivalry, and helping others in the sport that Routh enjoys most, with a twinge of competitiveness in the mix. “I thought this year [2024] was going to be the last, but I won state.” But,” he continues, “I can’t win and walk off the court.”
His most memorable pitching moments also include losses, which he credits with helping him improve, and he readily shares advice with other players to help them improve their game. He has even passed along his knowledge— and, arguably, innate talent--to one of his nine grandchildren, Josh, who garnered his own world championship win.
Routh has more ringers in his sights, with plans to take part in more tournaments in the new year. One of his goals: a 100% average game.
On his already impressive status as a horseshoe pitcher, Routh humbly quipped, “I’m pretty proud of it, for my age.” •
Olympics Horseshoe Tournament.*
Publisher
Kristi Collier kristi@welcomehomergv.com
Content Creator/Photographer
Eryn Reddell Wingert eryn@welcomehomergv.com
Accounting
Angela Blanchard angela@welcomehomergv.com
Administration Amie Gray agray@welcomehomergv.com
Colette Brookins calendar@welcomehomergv.com
Event Manager
Anne Marie Martin events@welcomehomergv.com
219 W Nolana McAllen, TX 78504
956.687.5115 www.welcomehomergv.com
Editor Chris Ardis news@welcomehomergv.com
Graphic Design AIM Media Texas, LLC
Activity Coordinator Fran Adams fran@welcomehomergv.com
Business Development
Chris Leadbetter chris@welcomehomergv.com
Travel Division
Kristy Meyer
travel@welcomehomergv.com
Sarah Denzer sarah@welcomehomergv.com
Stella Riester stella@welcomehomergv.com
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A wall full of horseshoepitching accomplishments by Tom Routh.
Photo courtesy: Tom Routh
Tom Routh sizes up the distance and his aim before pitching during the 2023 Golden Age
Photo by Eryn Reddell Wingert
Keep McAllen Beautiful Meet the Artist
Keep McAllen Beautiful (KMB) introduces the artists behind the irrigation pipe masterpieces through their Meet the Artist series. Look for Meet the Artist in our issues throughout the 2024 – 2025 season.
Spotted In The RGV
Freddy Fender Memorial
San Benito, Texas
By Eryn Reddell Wingert
The city of San Benito is home to quite a few tributes to hometown native Freddy Fender, one this memorial monument. Born Baldemar Huerta, Fender was a marine before topping Billboard’s charts with “Wasted Days and Wasted Nights” and winning Top Male Artist in 1975, according to the Texas State Historical Association. Fender passed away in 2006. His grave and memorial are located at the San Benito Memorial Park Cemetery.
Seven Oaks Residents Make Christmas Brighter at Leal Elementary School
Special to Welcome Home Winter Texan
Seven Oaks RV Resort in Mission adopted Leal Elementary School to make Christmas 2024 extra bright. Resort residents worked with the school counselor, Diana Gaona, who provided them with a list of five families’ (which included 16 children) needs and wants. Through the generosity of Seven Oaks residents, even after they made sure every single need and want had been purchased and wrapped, there were still enough funds to purchase five $100 gift cards for five additional families, to provide a pizza party for the entire school, and to provide approximately 60 $10 Walmart and McDonald’s gift cards to give away to students during the pizza party as they played Name that Tune. Two students from every class that could name the tune were able to choose between the two gift cards.
It was a memorable event for everyone and one that warmed the hearts of the Seven Oaks group. Residents were also invited to visit the school and watch the fourth and fifth graders perform Elfish and the Sleigh Riders. They readily accepted the invitation and thoroughly enjoyed the performance. Everyone experienced the joy of giving and of receiving. •
Meet the Two New Chimps from Honolulu Zoo
Special to Welcome Home Winter Texan
The Gladys Porter Zoo has welcomed two new members to their chimpanzee troop. The newcomers are a mother and son pair--45-year-old Kumi and her son, 34-year-old Kibale. Staff are inviting the public to visit the Zoo and give them a warm South Texas welcome. Kumi and Kibale arrived in September from Honolulu Zoo. After completing the mandatory quarantine period, primate keepers began working on introducing the pair to the resident chimps at the Zoo. Before their arrival, the Zoo’s troop consisted of four geriatric troop members. The oldest is Rusty, a 52-yearold female and matriarch of the group. The other troop members include Camille, JK, and the male of the group, Sancho, all in their 40s.
“We are happy to report that Kumi and Kibale have been adjusting well to their new home and roommates,” said
Walter DuPree, curator of mammals at the Gladys Porter Zoo. “They’re learning where they fit in with their new group. Watching their relationships develop has been rewarding and fascinating. The team that works with the chimps was careful to monitor positive signs between our original group and the two new members. This couldn’t have been accomplished without their knowledge and care. We are thrilled to see the two new chimps being adopted by the others. It is a good day.”
Chimpanzees are listed as “Endangered” by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List of Threatened Species. The biggest threats they face in the wild are poaching, habitat loss, and disease. It’s time for a trip to the Gladys Porter Zoo in Brownsville to meet Kumi and Kibale—and their roommates. •
15th Annual Llano Grande Quilt Show
Coming January 28
Special to Welcome Home Winter Texan
Join us for the 15th Annual Llano Grande Quilt Show. The show will be held Tuesday, January 28, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Llano Grande Event Center, 2215 East West Blvd. (off Mile 2 West) in Mercedes. Wander through the large variety of quilts, wall hangings, and table runners on display. The theme of this year’s Opportunity Quilt is Mint Julep Garden. Imagine everything related to a mint julep wrapped up in a beautiful, one-of-a-kind quilt that measures 77 x 77. The soft colors of creams, mint green, peaches, and blues will entice you to visit the Llano Grande garden. Tickets for the quilt can be purchased from any Llano Grande Quilting Bee member or at the Show. The drawing will be held at the end of the Show, and you do not need to be present to win. The Challenge Quilt theme for the year is, “What would you see at the Kentucky Derby?” Stop by to see what all of the creative quilters have designed for their vision of the Derby. The Challenge Quilt shows a variety of skill levels, from beginner to expert. While the skill levels may differ, the vision and beauty always shines through. Admission to this year’s Show will be $5. You will have the
opportunity to cast your vote for People’s Choice this year. Which one will you choose? There will also be a variety of vendors for your shopping pleasure. As always, the Show will include demonstrations throughout the morning; the boutique, offering a variety of items from Bee members; door prizes; and the grand prize of a sewing machine. •
Hello Travel Friends Experience Gorgeous Views of Alaska with Welcome Home RGV
Dear Travel Friends,
Raise your hand if Alaska has always been on your bucket list! If you’ve ever seen incredible photos of the phenomenal scenery, it’s hard not to want to see it for yourself. From wildlife viewing to unique ports of call, cruising to Alaska is a must-do. The itinerary on an Alaskan cruise allows you to have experiences you can’t get anywhere else. Visiting Juneau, Alaska, via cruise port offers a lot of exciting fun. The famous Mendenhall Glacier is in Juneau. Not only can you view the amazing glacier and hike around it, but you can also take a rafting tour and actually float in the frigid water…if you’re brave enough. Other adventures at this port include whale watching, panning for gold, having a drink at the Red Dog Saloon, and so much more.
Another popular cruise port is Skagway, Alaska. Here, you can enjoy the gorgeous scenery on board the White Pass Summit Rail. This train ride is just under two hours and showcases Alaska at its finest. You’ll see waterfalls, scenic overlooks, and the famous “Welcome to Alaska” sign. This is an absolute must-do experience while on an Alaskan cruise.
My personal favorite stop on an Alaskan cruise is Victoria, British Columbia, in Canada. This city is very walkable, and everything is easily accessible. The historic parliament building will stun you, with its architectural beauty. You can stroll around this area or take a tour inside. The Butchart Gardens are not far off, and the area is similar to New York’s Central Park. You’ll find acres and acres of lush greenery, flowers, and tall trees. More than 1,000,000 visitors come to see the botanical beauty every year.
All of these ports also offer unique food options you may want to add to your try-list. You can’t eat salmon any fresher than in Alaska. If you’re adventurous and want to try moose or reindeer, now is your chance. I can’t get enough lobster when I’m on a cruise. Anyone else? It’s not something I get to eat often, so when I have the chance, I take it!
Taking an Alaska cruise is something I suggest everyone add to your calendar at least once in your lifetime. What makes it even more fun is doing it in a group--with a bunch of friends. If you think this sounds like fun, give us a call at 956-687-5115. We have an Alaska cruise scheduled in June, and we would love for you to join us. Not only will you have the chance to see and do all of these fun activities, but we’re also taking a few days to tour Seattle before the cruise. We’ll check out the space needle, take a tour of the city, and stay at a really unique hotel downtown. For more information, give us a call. I’m here to help you check off all the fun travel destinations from your list.
~Sarah Denzer, tour manager •
Catch Rompiendo el cielo at IMAS Until January 19
Special to Welcome Home Winter Texan
When the sky’s the limit, what happens when you break the sky? Rompiendo el cielo is an exhibition that features original work by American artist Uriel Landeros, “Conquista.” This exhibition explores themes of identity, cultural heritage, migration, and representation of Indigenous communities in contemporary art. Rompiendo el cielo presents a series of portraits of icons who have, in their own right, “broken the sky” through their extraordinary achievements. This exhibit also features original works of art from the artist’s private collection by some of the most recognizable names, including Pablo Picasso, Banksy, Andy Warhol, Salvador Dalí, Julian Schnabel, Tony Shafrazi, Rupert Smith, and Joseph Beuys.
The exhibition at the International Museum of Art & Science (IMAS), 1900 W. Nolana Ave. in McAllen, ends Sunday, January 19. For more information, call 956-6812800 or visit theimasonline.org. •
All the Buzz About the Alamo Rose Quilt-A-Bees Quilt Show
Special to Welcome Home Winter Texan
The Alamo Rose Quilt-A-Bees Quilt Show will be held Wednesday, January 22, from noon to 3 p.m. at Alamo Rose RV Park, 938 S. Alamo Rd. in Alamo. Admission is $3 There will be quilts for sale and door prizes. Fabric vendors will be on site, as well. A raffle will be held for the Opportunity Quilt. The winner’s name will be drawn at 3 p.m. the day of the show. This group of busy little Bees made bears and 200 Christmas stockings that Alamo Rose residents filled. All of this while preparing for their Quilt Show. For more information about the Show, contact Marilyn Kimmel at 812-344-9897. •
Fun-N-Sun CRABs
Replenish San Benito Food Pantry
Special to Welcome Home Winter Texan
The CRABs (Conservative Retired Adults Bikers) motorcycle club at FunN-Sun RV Resort in San Benito sponsored the Resort’s annual food drive for the San Benito Food Pantry. On Christmas Eve, they presented cash donations totaling $15,001.00, in addition to food stuffs, to Forest Walker, Pantry president. What a generous Christmas gift to the San Benito Food Pantry! •
Proud sponsor of the Arroyo Colorado Audubon Society
IWhere “Happy Place” Happens
Special to Welcome Home Winter Texan
t’s “winter!” OK, it’s South Texas winter, and we are super excited for a few cooler temperatures. This is the time of year we get to get back outside and enjoy our outside Sit-n-Knit areas. For our Winter Texan friends who have come in over the years, y’all already know we have our comfy Sit-n-Knit inside The Lamb’s Loom. You know The Happy Place, where we all get to hang out together and enjoy a little yarn fun together. Knitting, crocheting, looming…it’s all yarn fun! This time of year, we take the chillaxin’ outside. We have two areas outside to enjoy. Our front space is Peggy’s Porch. That is where, a few years ago, we converted the carport to a Sit-n-Knit room of its own. Then, out in the back yard, we have a welcoming space under our oak tree, surrounded by our butterfly garden. It’s definitely a “Happy Place.” Everyone is welcome to come, sit, chillax, and share a few stories and pattern ideas with us over a cup of tea. You never know what others are working on and when some new project idea will jump out. And we all know fiber fun is even more fun when spent with friends. So give us a call, and we will host your group of fiber friends out on Peggy’s Porch!
Oftentimes, when in the Sit-n-Knit areas, you will see someone working on a gift for a friend or learning a new skill. And as a nonprofit, prayer-shawl ministry, there is always a hat or other fun item being done up to add to our Donation Chest. Everyone is welcome to add to that. As a matter of fact, we receive boxes regularly--throughout the year--from our Winter Texan friends, full of hats, scarves, shawls, and blankets. We do hope you will join us in this new year as we #stitchitforward together. We are open Wednesday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. The Lamb’s Loom is located at 1102 W. Tamarack Ave. in McAllen. Additional parking is available in the rear via Upas Avenue. Updates and other information are available on our website at thelambsloom.com
~ Prayers ‘n Purls! •
Retama Village, Mission
Retama Village, Mission
Alamo Country Club
$21,900
$89,900
The exterior showcases an RV pad with full hook-ups (30/50 amp), lush greenery, a large pergola within the fencedin backyard, and a storage shed. Heather Escobedo, TREC686290, (956) 271-3683
This 2012 unit is spacious, very well maintained and move in ready. The kitchen has beautiful maple colored wood cabinets, a food pantry, all major appliances and a gas stove top. A bonus 7x9 laundry room with a large storage closet, washer and dryer included! The exterior shed is also included! Bonnie Dominguez, MHSLSP00045160, (956) 434-6112
Alamo Country Club
McAllen Mobile Park, McAllen
$189,000
$75,000
FANTASTIC 2 bed/2 bath 2014 Oak Creek 1300 sqft Home located in McAllen Mobile park. This home is FULL of upgrades including: new roof, new carport, porcelain tile flooring, Safe-Step Walk-in jetted tub/ shower combo, double panes storm windows, 8” insulated walls, new A/C, new washer/dryer, and a 5-stage reverse osmosis water system. A Must See!!! Curt Riester, TREC771832, MHSLSP00047858, (956) 455-4195
Beautiful 2 bed/2 bath in Alamo Country Club with Texas Room, screened back patio including mini-dog park, large primary bedroom, 2 living spaces on the golf course! Curt Riester, TREC771832, MHSLSP00047858, (956) 455-4195
Hidden Valley Ranch, Mission
Wagon City South, Mission
$179,900
$129,900
This 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom home sits on an oversized corner lot with so much to offer, all conveniently located in Wagon City South a active 55+ community. Heather Escobedo, TREC686290, (956) 271-3683
Are you tired of seeing the same old thing? This 2019 2 bedroom, 2 bath mobile home will check everything off your list and more! Heather Escobedo, TREC686290, MHSLSP00048506, (956) 271-3683
Location, location. location! This RV Casita has one of the most coveted locations in the community. Lots of extras -- pergola, storage sheds, whole house 18 kw Generac generator and gutters making it better than new! All appliances convey. FHU for your RV, but you do not have to have an RV to enjoy this fabulous home. Carol Kerr Welch, TREC540183, MHSLSP00048089, (956) 900-8487
This freshly painted RV porthome in Retama Village features 4 bedrooms, 2 bonus spaces, a 2-car garage, and covered RV port with hookups. Enjoy an open floorplan, high ceilings, a private backyard oasis, and community amenities. HOA covers landscape maintenance. Call to see your dream home! Carol Kerr Welch, TREC540183, (956) 900-8487
Wagon City South, Mission
Looking for a diamond in the rough? Your search is over! This lovely 2 bedroom 2 bathroom mobile home, located in the esteemed 55+ community of Wagon City South is perfect for you! Heather Escobedo, TREC686290, (956) 271-3683
RV Porthome recently remodeled inside & out with large, fenced yard. Large 2 story storage area/ workshop with an additional 12x18 storage building for plenty of storage. Gail Gallagher, TREC797370, (816) 916-5583
$405,000 $145,000 $110,000
Wagon City South, Mission
Restful Valley Ranch, Mission
Interested in finding a new place to call your own? This 14 x 66 SCHULT 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom home sits on a corner land and is a must see! Heather Escobedo, TREC686290, (956) 271-3683
Come check out this cozy mobile home located in Restful Valley Ranch. This 14x42, 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom home sits in the center of the 3 lots. Heather Escobedo, TREC686290, MHSLSP00048506, (956) 271-3683
$254,000
$16,500
Have I got the PERFECT place for YOU!! This 1 bedroom/1 bathroom built in 2000 is fully furnished and 100% turn key ready and even includes plate ware, glassware, and silverware! The outdoor patio is the perfect spot to enjoy warm South Texas breezes with neighbors and friends. Curt Riester, TREC771832, MHSLSP00047858, (956) 455-4195
You will love this home! The open floorplan lives much larger than the square footage. Updated paint inside and out, roof, windows, irrigation and landscaping. A mini split HVAC was also added to the garage. Enjoy worry free living in this beautiful home. Carol Kerr Welch, TREC540183, (956) 900-8487
Village, Mission
$239,900
$145,000
This updated 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom furnished mobile is located in an active 55+ guarded gate community. Walk into this beautiful home and fall in love! Features updated from 2021/2022 include a renovated kitchen (Painted cabinets and walls, new granite countertops, sink, faucet, disposal, dishwasher, and fridge) a fresh coat of paint in the living room, flooring, 2 mini splits, water heater, water softener, and even exterior features like the screened in porch, extended concrete, and northside fencing with gate. Heather Escobedo, TREC686290, MHSLSP00048506, (956) 271-3683
This upgraded Santa Maria floorplan home is perfect for discerning buyers. Enjoy floor-to-ceiling sliding doors, a spacious butler’s pantry, guest room with ensuite, a separate studio, expanded garage, and low-maintenance landscaping. Located in Retama Village, a premier 55+ community with abundant activities and amenities. Carol Kerr Welch, TREC540183, (956) 900-8487
Hidden Valley Ranch, Mission
Hidden Valley Ranch, Mission
$110,000
$76,000
Searching for a gated 55+ community to settle down in? Then stop and check out this 2 bedroom 1.5 bath mobile home. Step inside and experience the bright and airy front living space and the lovely eat-in kitchen that provides the perfect combination of functionality and comfort. Heather Escobedo, TREC686290, MHSLSP00048506, (956) 271-3683
Come and check out this 1 bedroom 1 bathroom 2004 Oak Creek (16 x 48) Energy Star home.The home includes a Kinetico water softener, Reverse Osmosis, a natural gas Generac and a new Carrier HVAC system. Heather Escobedo, TREC686290, (956) 271-3683
$149,900
$225,000
This 2 Bed/2 bath home is perfectly located on the golf course in Alamo Country Club. Spacious primary bedroom & suite. Both bedrooms have access to the screened in backyard patio. Curt Riester, TREC771832, MHSLSP00047858, (956) 455-4195
GOTTA SEE this large 1665 sqft 2 bed/2 bath home in Alamo Country Club. This home is located on the golf course witha wonderful view of the 4th hole. Primary has room for king bed and both bedrooms have new tile flooring. An updated kitchen with breakfast nook with bay windows and a screen in porch round out the upgrades. Curt Riester, TREC771832, MHSLSP00047858, (956) 455-4195
Wagon City South, Mission
$77,000
This must-see home is located in Wagon City South, a friendly 55+ community. This 2-bedroom, 1.5-bath home comes furnished and is movein ready. Heather Escobedo, TREC686290, (956) 271-3683
Location, Location, Location! Own an RV and looking for a great place to park? Come check out this property, located in the 55+ community of Llano Grande Resort, where you own your lot! RV pad hook-ups included 30 amp and 50 amp services and a storage shed with 220vac connection. Heather Escobedo, TREC686290, MHSLSP00048506, (956) 271-3683
Wagon City South, Mission
Hidden Valley Ranch, Mission
$118,500
$58,500 $115,000
Located in a active 55+ community of Wagon City South, this well-preserved 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom home sits on a corner lot and is fully furnished and is move-in ready. The open-concept living and dining space is perfect for entertaining guests or relaxing alone. Heather Escobedo, TREC686290, MHSLSP00048506, (956) 271-3683
Looking for an energy-efficient home? The home comes fully furnished with all kitchen appliances, a dishwasher included, and a custom-built Murphy bed. RV lot with full hookups. Heather Escobedo, TREC686290, (956) 271-3683
McAllen Mobile Park, McAllen
Retama Village, Mission
Retama Village, Mission
McAllen Mobile Park, McAllen
Llano Grande Resort, Mercedes
Alamo Country Club, Alamo
Llano Grande Resort, Mercedes
Retama Village, Mission
Retama
2025
Alamo Economic Development
Amigos Del Valle
AXIS Water Technologies
Aztec House Leveling & Remodeling
Bentsen Grove Resort
Bicycle World RGV
Bit-O-Heaven RV & Mobile Home Resort
Black Bear Diner - McAllen
Black Bear Diner - Brownsville*
Blue Oaks RV
BlueWave Express Car Wash
Boyle Scooter
BreakawayCruises
Brownsville Historical Association
Captain Murphy Charter Service - Isla Tours
Center Well Primary Care
Central Texas I-10 Community Alliance
Chimney Park MHC
Chris Mosley/Tupperware
Christian Resort Ministries
City of Brownsville*
City of Laredo Convention & Visitors Bureau
City of McAllen Parks & Recreation
City of McAllen Recycling Center
City of Port Isabel
Codesm Marketing
Colair, Inc.
Cooper Wellness & Disease Prevention Ctr
Cornerstone Orthopedic Institute
Cottages at Bryan Village
CQR Kitchen & Bath
CRR Hospitality
Cutco Cutlery
Daily Kindness Healthcare
David's Aluminum
Del Rio Hispanic Chamber
Desai Eye Center
DHR Health
Don Wes Flea Market
Dr. Glatz - GLATZ GROUP
Edinburg CVB
El Valle Del Sol
Elara Caring Hospice
Equity Lifestyle Properties
Greater Mission Chamber of Commerce
Greater New Braunfels Chamber of Commerce
Gelman Stained Glass Museum*
Gulf Coast Eye Institute
Harlingen Convention & Visitors Bureau
Health Care Unlimited
Hill Country of Texas
Holiday Inn Resort South Padre Island
Houston Methodist Hospital, J.C. Walter Jr. Transplant Center
John Anthony Homes
Kenedy Ranch Museum
KleenTank
La Joya ISD Performing Arts Center
Life Medical Supply
Lone Star National Bank
Mambo Seafood Restaurants
MASA - Medical Transport Solutions
McAllen Champion Lakes Golf Course
McAllen Convention & Visitors Bureau
McAllen Convention Center
McAllen Heritage Center Inc.
McAllen International Airport
McAllen Mobile Park
McAllen Wind Ensemble
Mike's Plumbing Electrical & AC
Mobile Home Depot
Moveo Performance
Mr. Mobile Home Insurance Specialist
Museum of South Texas History (MOSTHistory)
Mustre Dental Clinic
Newport Paci c
NOAA/National Weather Service RGV
Oklahoma Tourism & Recreation Dept
On the Wave Charters, LLC
Osprey Cruises
Palo Alto Battle eld National Historical Park
Palm Resaca Mobile Home Park*
Payne Auto Group
Pete's Mobile Home Supply & Service
Pirates Landing
PPL Motor Homes
Prime Healthcare
Pueblo Tires
Puga Insurance Agency
Quinta Mazatlan
Raising Cane's
Re-Bath of Texas
Real Estate By Welcome Home
Relay Texas
Republic of Texas Concrete Coating
Rio Grande City Economic Development Corporation
Rio Grande Regional Hospital
Rio Grande Valley Quilt Guild
River Bend Resort & Golf Club
Scooter’s Co ee*
Shary Municipal Golf Course
South Padre Island Birding
South Texas Ecotourism Center
South Texas Hearing Center
South Texas Vascular Institute
Sun Communities
T-Mobile
Texas Citrus & Disease Management
Texas Coastal Bend Regional Tourism Council
Texas Department of Ag GO TEXAN
Texas Fort Trails
Texas National Bank - Edinburg
Texas National Bank - Brownsville*
Texas Oncology
Texas Senior Medicare Patrol
Texas Tropical Trail Region
The In nitus
The Medicare Store
Tours & Travel by Welcome Home
Tu Shed
United Healthcare
Valley Financial & Estate Planning
Valley Keyboards
Valley Regional Rehabilitation Hospital*
VIP La Feria RV Park
Visit Corpus Christi
Visit South Padre Island
Viv Clinic
Viva Tours LLC
Well Groomed
Wellsential Health
Weslaco Chamber of Commerce
Weslaco Regional Rehabilitation Hospital
Western & Southern Life
Window Depot USA of South Texas
Window World Rio Grande Valley
Winter Texan Home Sales 2
Wound Care Institute of Texas
*Vendors only at Brownsville Expo Jan 22
JANUARY 22, 2025
VINYL SPIN
TOD BAND
Perspectives Finishing Strong
By Chaplain Chris Robinson
The great philosopher Forest Gump once said, “Life is like a box of chocolates.” Another, lesser-known philosopher (myself), thinks life is like a book--you start with the introduction, carefully turn the pages, but no one truly knows how it will conclude. If you had asked me five months ago where I would be in January 2025, my answer would’ve been Lynchburg, Virginia. Yet here I am in Mission, Texas, serving as a chaplain in an RV resort park. Although my local weatherman is telling me it’s winter back home, my mind and body are in a state of confusion with these RGV palm trees, grackles, and the summer-like temperatures. Simply put, my story hasn’t been completed, and I don’t have the luxury of skipping ahead to see how it ends. That’s a great thing because I need time to finish well.
In II Timothy 4:7, the Apostle Paul tells his young protege, “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” His story was about to be concluded. He could see the handwriting on the wall and the prize that awaited him. But young Timothy was just getting started in ministry, and Paul was passing on the baton with some encouraging--yet challenging-words: II Timothy 2:3-4, “Endure hardship as a good soldier of Jesus Christ.” Like Timothy then, his book was being written, but he didn’t know how it would end. His job was to keep
preaching, keep fighting, and keep running to win. By the way, Timothy was martyred at 80 years of age for standing up for Jesus. If you had asked him at 40, what his last chapter would read like, he would’ve only been guessing. Thank God he finished what he started!
What about you? Are you feeling like your last chapter has already been written? Maybe you were knocked down recently and you feel there’s no way to get back up. Maybe, due to health or age, you think you have nothing more to offer. Well, I’ve got great news for you; God’s not done with you yet! Get back in the race, Sir! Get back in the race, Ma’am! Don’t let your last chapter read: He or she blew it on the last lap. Remember, it’s not how you started but how you finish that counts. •
Chris and Shannon Robinson serve with Christian Resort Ministries at Mission Bell -Tradewinds RV Resort in Mission. You may contact them at rvparkchaplain@gmail.com.
Exciting News About Rio Grande Valley Woodcarvers 39th Annual RGV Woodcarvers Show
Every January for the past 39 years, the Rio Grande Valley Woodcarvers have sponsored the premier woodcarving show in South Texas. The Show was held in several locations over the years.
In 1998, the show was at the old McAllen Civic Center. When the Civic Center closed, the carving show moved to the Pharr Civic Center. The past several years, the show was held at the Nomad Shrine Club. This year, there is a new venue.
The 39th Annual Rio Grande Valley Woodcarvers Show will be held Friday January 17, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Saturday, January 18, from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Brookhaven Event Center, 404 E. Interstate 2 in Pharr, in Building C. Brookhaven Event Center is located near Matt’s Building Materials. The Woodcarvers are asking for a $5 donation for admission. Lunch will be available on site for purchase.
This new location provides more space for woodcarving display tables. There is much better lighting and a clean, fresh new Exhibit Hall, with an expanded area for the judged competition carvings to be displayed and enjoyed by the public.
There will be high-quality carvings displayed by members of the carving community. The Tool Shop will provide a large array of carving tools and supplies for both beginners and more experienced carvers.
The highlight of the weekend is, as always, the carving competition. Top carvers from across the Rio Grande Valley, the country, and Canada will compete. There will be entries from all types of carving disciplines: realistic carving, chip carving, caricature carving, pyrography, relief, bird, decoy, stylized carving, gourds, and bowls. Join in the fun by entering a piece in the competition. This year’s competition will be judged by Tony Dill and Jim Trumpy. Both are highly respected artists and carvers known to all Rio Grande Valley woodcarvers.
2025 Rally on the Rio Seminars
Monday - Saturday, January 20 - 25
In 1999, The Rally on the Rio classes were added to the Show event. These six days of carving classes have been taught by some of best carving instructors from across the United States. This large event was conceived of, and organized by, several local Texan and Winter Texan woodcarvers, including Margaret and Jack Caywood, Elaine and Toby Craft, and many others.
Classes will be held at Brookhaven Event Center. This will provide a comfortable, well-lighted and spacious area for everyone attending the classes. We have an outstanding group of instructors scheduled to teach at the 2025 Rally on the Rio. The instructors are Tony Dill, Karen Huston, Lise LaFond, Brenda Lodermeier, Robert Rangel, Adair Rucker, Patty Rucker, Fred and Elaine Stenman, Jim Trumpy, George Vaughn, and Rich Wetherbee
Classes are open to the public and are available for beginners to expert carvers. Registration is required. Visit rgvwoodcarvers.org or send an email to rgvwcnmutts@gmail.com for more information. •
Dill, Karen Huston, Lise LaFond, Brenda Lodermeier, Robert Rangel, Adair Rucker, Patty Rucker Fred and Elaine Stenman, Jim Trumpy, George Vaughn, Richer Wetherbee
Rusty Rierson Performing Live at the Winter Texan Expo January 21
Special to Welcome Home Winter Texan
Rusty Rierson (pronounced Rye-erson) is a seasoned music-industry veteran. He has been performing publicly for almost 30 years and has been recognized as a favorite entertainer in the Rio Grande Valley since 2018. Rierson was awarded Male Vocalist of the Year in 2019 and 2022 by the Valley Star Awards. His music has been played on stations across the country, and he’s charted 15 hits on Europe’s country radio scene, with three going all the way up to #1 on the charts.
With over 500,000 spins on Spotify and over 100,000 albums in print, Rierson’s career as an independent artist is impressive. He’s also very versatile, ranging from country and the oldies to gospel, Christmas, and comedy. Rierson also boasts many great original songs.
During Winter Texan Season, Rierson plays at RV parks and resorts throughout the Valley. Don’t miss his performance January 21 at the 2025 Winter Texan Expo in McAllen. He goes on stage at 1:45 p.m. •
Jonny Bird to Present an Unforgettable Show
January 22 at the Winter Texan Expo
Special to Welcome Home Winter Texan
Jonny Bird, a Minnesota native now based in Las Vegas, is a six-time Best of Vegas nominee across various musical and entertainment categories and the 2021 winner of Best Lounge Show. His top-rated lounge/bar/ party show is entirely all-request, featuring a repertoire of over 3,000 songs, spanning classic rock, country, blues, yacht rock, 50s–90s pop hits, dinner show crooners, soul, Motown, disco, and iconic legends like Elvis, Neil Diamond, Frank Sinatra, Ray Charles, and more. Bird’s versatility and magnetic charisma are unmatched. He takes requests from virtually any genre, delivering a truly unique and unforgettable experience.
Discover Bird’s talent for yourself Wednesday, January 22, at 12:15 p.m. at the Winter Texan Expo in McAllen. Admission to this event at the McAllen Convention Center, 700 Convention Center Blvd., is free. See you at the Expo! •
Pickleball on Padre: A Smash Hit Returns
Special to Welcome Home Winter Texan
Get ready to paddle up and join the action as South Padre Island hosts Pickleball on Padre, a thrilling celebration of one of the fastest-growing sports in the nation! This year’s event is set to take place from January 27 through February 2 and promises a week filled with excitement, camaraderie, and spirited competition.
The event welcomes players of all skill levels, offering something for everyone, from casual enthusiasts to seasoned pros. Whether you’re looking to test your skills in this inaugural tournament, enjoy free play sessions, or simply immerse yourself in the lively pickleball community, this is your chance to experience the game like never before.
With matches hosted indoors at the South Padre Island Convention Center and outdoors at the Isla Grand Beach Resort, participants can enjoy a dynamic and inviting environment, perfect for showcasing your talents while soaking in the Island’s vibrant atmosphere. So pack your paddle and bring your A-game to Pickleball on Padre. Whether you’re a competitor or a spectator, this event is your ticket to unforgettable fun on the beautiful shores of South Padre Island.
For more information and registration details, visit sopadre.com/ pickleball. •
Beach + Shopping = SPI Market Days
Special to Welcome Home Winter Texan
The 29th Annual SPI Market Days will be held on South Padre Island January 24-26 and February 21-23 at the South Padre Island Convention Center, 7355 Padre Blvd. Event hours are Friday and Saturday 9 a.m. -5 p.m. and Sunday 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Admission is only $2; children 12 and under are free. There will be hourly door prizes you won’t want to miss, as well as live music, food, and fun!
This unique venue will host vendors with original art; handmade
jewelry; gourmet food and drink mixes; a variety of specialty booths; health and beauty products; pet items; home décor and goods; custom, hand-cut metal art; textiles; tools; handbags; fashionable clothing, shoes, and hats; and discounts from local restaurants and businesses. Shop among a large collection of artisans in one location.
Bring a friend and come get your dose of “vitamin sea” while you shop! For more information, please visit spimarketdays.com. •
DANCES ENTERTAINMENT & SHOWS
Calendar of Events
Wednesday • Jan 15, 2025
All You Can Eat Breakfast 7:30 AM Enchanted Valley Ranch Mission (956) 519-8597 $8
Wednesday Breakfast 7:30 AM Bentsen Grove Resort Palmview (956) 585-0703
Craft Sale 9:00 AM Alamo Palms RV Resort Alamo (956) 683-5918
Goldwing Express Cowboy Church 9:00 AM Bit-O-Heaven Donna (603) 396-2786
Quinta Park Tours 9:00 AM Quinta Mazatlan McAllen (956) 681-3370
Plus Square Dance 10:00 AM Tropic Star RV Resort Pharr (956) 874-8264
2 Hour Riverside Dreamer River Tour 10:30
AM Riverside Club Mission (956) 581-4477
3M Retirees & Friends Reunion 10:30 AM
Victoria Palms RV Resort Donna (512) 916-9236
January Winter Texan Day 11:00 AM Gelman
Stained Glass Museum San Juan (956) 601-0838 $15
Burgers & Fries 11:30 AM Chimney Park MHC Mission (956) 585-5061 $7
Acoustic Jam 12:30 PM Quiet Village II
Looking for something to do here in the Rio Grande Valley? Our calendar of events has been the go-to source for our retirees to check out the lighter side of the Valley. For more information on submitting your events and activities, please email calendar@welcomehomergv.com. The deadline for submission is Fridays at 5:00pm.
Subdivision Donna
Music Jam 12:30 PM Sunshine RV Resort
Harlingen (956) 425-7448
Rock&RollJam12:30 PM Wagon City North Mission Free
Big Band Jam 1:00 PM Valley View Estates Mission (956) 580-0428
Jam Session 1:00 PM Heritage Square Mission (651) 249-3129
Riverside Dreamer River Tour 1:00 PM
Riverside Club Mission (956) 581-4477 $13
Jam Session 1:30 PM Park Place Estates RV
Resort Harlingen (956) 428-4414
Curt James 2:00 PM Margaritaville SPI (956) 761-6551
Happy Hour w/Diego & Edith 3:00 PM Southern Comfort RV Resort Weslaco (956) 968-3140
Happy Hour w/Jerry Co 3:00 PM Leisure
World Weslaco (956) 968-8412
Happy Hour w/Oliver Stepp 3:00 PM Victoria Palms RV Resort Donna (956) 464-7801 PTH
Karaoke DJ 3:00 PM McAllen Mission RV
Resort Mission (720) 253-8608
Happy Hour w/Chris Moreau 3:30 PM Paradise
South RV Resort Mercedes (956) 565-2044 PTH
Wednesday Night Meal 4:30 PM Eldorado Acres Palmview (956) 581-6718 $8
Julie Cooper Mystery Dinner/Show 5:00 PM
Seven Oaks Resort Mission (956) 581-0068
Root Beer Floats 6:00 PM Split Rail RV Park Mission (956) 585-8135 $2
Square Dance - MS & Plus w/Rounds 6:30 PM
Alamo Palms RV Resort Alamo (956) 683-5918
3 Fools on 3 Stools 7:00 PM Paradise Park Inc. McAllen McAllen (956) 682-8081 $10
Carroll Classic Countdown 7:00 PM Paradise
Park RV Resort Harlingen (956) 425-6881
Dance w/Leslie Blasing 7:00 PM Golf View Estates Mission $8
Dance w/Steven May & The Southern Knights 7:00 PM Tip O Texas RV Resort Pharr (956) 787-9959
Dance w/Vinyl Spin 7:00 PM Trophy Gardens RV Resort Alamo (956) 787-7717 $10
Encore Concert-Toby 7:00 PM Sunshine RV Resort Harlingen (956) 428-4137
Mark Merchant 7:00 PM W and I Resort Mission (956) 585-6594 $10
JAM SESSIONS SALES MEALS
Rusty Rierson 7:00 PM McAllen Mobile Park
McAllen (405) 315-8575 $9
Senior Ambassadors 7:00 PM Casa Del Sol
Donna (956) 464-2272 PTH
Sister Luv 7:00 PM Bit-O-Heaven RV and MH Resort Donna (701) 269-1045 $10
Flying Mic Night 9:00 PM The Flying Walrus McAllen (956) 627-0211
Thursday • Jan 16, 2025
Biscuits & Gravy 7:30 AM Lamplighter MH
Subdivision Palmview
Craft Fair/Garage Sale 8:00 AM Seven Oaks Resort Mission (956) 581-0068
Craft Show 8:00 AM Aladdin Villas Mission (956) 581-1288 Free
Bluegrass Jam 9:00 AM Lamplighter MH
Subdivision Palmview
Pancake Breakfast 9:00 AM The Grove San Juan (608) 317-7829 Varies
Advanced Square Dance Workshop 10:00 AM Tropic Star RV Resort Pharr (956) 874-8264
Thursday Lunch 11:00 AM Bentsen Grove Resort Palmview (956) 585-0703
Jam Lunch 11:30 AM Pharr South Pharr (956) 787-7839
JamSession12:30 PM Pharr South Pharr (956) 787-7839
Riverside Dreamer River Tour 1:00 PM
Riverside Club Mission (956) 581-4477 $13
The Lady & The Outlaw 1:00 PM Riverside Club Mission (956) 581-1033
Acoustic Bluegrass Jam 1:30 PM VIP La Feria
RV Park West La Feria (940) 453-0196
Anthony Hernandez Illusions 2:00 PM Tip O Texas RV Resort Pharr (956) 787-9959 $9/$10
Happy Hour w/Jose Villarreal 3:00 PM Snow to Sun RV Resort Weslaco (956) 968-0322 PTH
Happy Hour w/Ron Moshier 3:00 PM Magic Valley Resort Weslaco (956) 968-8242 Free Soup Supper 4:30 PM Bit-O-Heaven RV and MH Resort Donna (603) 396-2786 $4
Happy Hour w/Eli & the Alibis 5:00 PM Llano
Grande Resort Mercedes (956) 565-2638 PTH
Country Jam 6:00 PM Dream Valley Ranch Mission (956) 519-3339
Jam Session 6:00 PM Victoria Palms RV Resort
Donna (956) 464-7801 Free
Nature Loteria Night 6:00 PM Quinta Mazatlan McAllen (956) 681-3370
Country, Big Band, Variety Jam 6:30 PM La Hacienda Estates Alamo (642) 644-1753
Anthony Hernandez, Illusionist 7:00 PM Winter Ranch RV Resort Alamo (956) 781-1358
Dance w/Steven May & Southern Knights 7:00 PM Sunshine RV Resort Harlingen (956) 428-4137 $10
Encore Concert-Toby 7:00 PM Southern Comfort RV Resort Weslaco (956) 968-3140
Friday • Jan 17, 2025
Park Wide Garage Sale 8:00 AM Leisure Valley Ranch Mission (956) 529-1878
54th Annual Dakee Si Fall Powwow 9:00 AM Alton Community Center Alton (956) 432-0790 Free Blood Drive 9:00 AM Greengate Grove Palmview (956) 540-8463
CraftShow9:00 AM Mission West Mission (956) 585-0624
Woodcarving Show & Rally on the Rio 9:00 AM
Brookhaven Event Center Pharr $5
Funbox 10:00 AM La Plaza Mall McAllen Parking Lot
Pages and Poses Sessions with Yoga House RGV 10:30 AM Main Library McAllen (956) 681-3060
Jam Session 12:30 PM Tropic Winds RV Resort Harlingen (956) 423-5484
JamSession1:00 PM Leisure World Weslaco (956) 968-8412
Music Jam 1:00 PM Split Rail RV Park Mission (956) 585-8135
Riverside Dreamer River Tour 1:00 PM Riverside Club Mission (956) 581-4477 $13
Continued on the next page
DANCES ENTERTAINMENT & SHOWS
Calendar of Events
Friday Fish Fry 3:00 PM Riverside Club Mission (956) 581-4477
Happy Hour w/Bob Buttermore 3:00 PM Snow to Sun RV Resort Weslaco (956) 968-0322 PTH
Live Music 3:00 PM Riverside Club Mission (956) 581-1033
Fish Fry Night 4:30 PM Mission West RV Resort Mission (956) 585-0624 $9+
Karaoke 5:00 PM Alamo Palms RV Resort Alamo (956) 683-5918
Trivia Night 5:00 PM Llano Grande Resort Mercedes (956) 565-2638
Country Jam 5:30 PM Hidden Valley Ranch Mission (717) 877-8375
Big Band Jam 7:00 PM Palm Shadows Resort
Donna (956) 597-6900
Concert Series: Toby 7:00 PM Alamo Palms RV Resort Alamo (956) 683-5918 $22, $24, $25
Dance w/CanAm 7:00 PM Fun N Sun RV Resort San Benito (956) 399-5125 $10
Dance w/Jamie G & The Adels 7:00 PM Park Place Estates RV Resort Harlingen (956) 428-4414 $10/$12
Dance w/Ron Moshier 7:00 PM Casa Del Sol Donna (956) 464-2272 $8
Dance w/Southern Vibes 7:00 PM Texas Trails
RV Resort Pharr (956) 787-6538 $8
Dance w/Steven May & The Southern Knights 7:00 PM
Victoria Palms RV Resort Donna (956) 464-7801 $8
Dance w/Texas Turn Around 7:00 PM Fiesta
Village Mission (956) 585-9264 $10
Dance w/The Agency 7:00 PM Bentsen Grove
Resort Palmview (956) 585-0703 $10
Dance w/The Fabulous Cruisers 7:00 PM Tropic
Star RV Resort Pharr (956) 787-5773 $12
Dance w/The Night Howlers 7:00 PM Ranchero
Village Senior Resort Weslaco (956) 968-6223 $10
Dance w/Time Machine 7:00 PM Restful Valley
Ranch Mission (319) 296-5410 $10
Dance w/South Texas Ramblers 7:00 PM Bentsen
Palm RV Park Mission (956)585-0541
Family Comedy Night 7:00 PM Harlingen
Community Theatre Harlingen (956) 412-7529
George Strait Tribute 7:00 PM Llano Grande
Resort Mercedes (956) 565-2638
Goldwing Express Show 7:00 PM Casa del Valle
RV Resort Alamo (956) 783-5008 $10
Karaoke 7:00 PM Tip O Texas RV Resort Pharr (956) 787-9959
Jonny Bird 7:00 PM Winter Green Estates Mission (956) 322-7434 $9
Maham Comedy 7:00 PM Tropic Winds RV Resort Harlingen (956) 423-5484 $10/$12
Sister Luv 7:00 PM Eastgate RV Park Harlingen (956) 423-3137 $9
Sock Hop Dance w/Gatos Locos 7:00 PM Bit-OHeaven RV and MH Resort Donna (701) 2691045 $10
Spittin’ Image 7:00 PM Rio Valley Estates Weslaco (816) 616-8320 $10
Saturday • Jan 18 2025
McAllen Marathon Scott Crane Memorial Run 7:00 AM McAllen Convention Center
Saturday Breakfast 7:00 AM Eldorado Acres Palmview (956) 581-6718
Breakfast Saturday’s 8:00 AM Chimney Park MHC Mission (956) 585-5061 $7
Flea Market 8:00 AM Valley View Estates
Mission (956) 580-0428 $1
Golf View Estates Annual Rummage Sale 8:00 AM Golf View Estates Mission
Park Wide Garage Sale 8:00 AM Leisure Valley Ranch Mission (956) 529-1878
Quilt Show & Breakfast 8:00 AM Pharr South
Pharr (218) 820-2208
SRV Breakfast 8:00 AM Siesta Retirement
Village Weslaco (956) 969-3740 $8
Craft Show 9:00 AM Tip O Texas RV Resort
Pharr (956) 787-9959
Craft Show 9:00 AM Sunshine RV Resort
JAM SESSIONS SALES MEALS
Harlingen (956) 425-7448
Woodcarving Show & Rally on the Rio 9:00
AM Brookhaven Event Center Pharr $5
Exploring the Olmecs 10:00 AM International Museum of Art & Science McAllen (956) 681-2800
Pages and Poses Sessions with Yoga House RGV 11:00 AM Main Library McAllen (956) 681-3060
Big Band Variety Jam 1:00 PM Trails End Resort Weslaco (956) 968-5051
Jolly Huntsman 1:00 PM Riverside Club Mission (956) 581-1033
Riverside Dreamer River Tour 1:00 PM
Riverside Club Mission (956) 581-4477 $13
Movin Melvin Brown 3:00 PM Chimney Park Mission (956) 585-5061
Dance w/Burnin’ Ember 6:00 PM Leisure Valley Ranch Mission (956) 529-1878
Goldwing Express 6:00 PM Winter Haven Village Pharr (956) 303-4500 $10
Dance w/Leslie Blasing 7:00 PM Llano Grande Resort Mercedes (956) 565-2638 $10
Dance w/Retro Rockers 7:00 PM Country Sunshine RV Resort Weslaco (956) 969-1557 $10
Dance w/Ron Moshier 7:00 PM Sunshine RV Resort Harlingen (956) 425-7448 $10
Dance w/Route 66 7:00 PM Alamo Palms RV Resort Alamo (956) 683-5918 $8
Dance w/Ruthi 7:00 PM Eastgate RV Park
Harlingen (956) 423-3137 $8
Dance w/Steven May & the Southern Knights 7:00 PM El Valle Del Sol Mission (956) 585-5704
Dance w/Texas Wheels 7:00 PM Casa del Valle RV Resort Alamo (956) 783-5008 $8
Dance w/The Agency 7:00 PM Pine to Palm Resort Park Weslaco (956) 968-5760 $10
Dance w/The Night Howlers 7:00 PM
Eldorado Acres Palmview (956) 581-6718 $10
Dance w/Vinyl Spin 7:00 PM Snow to Sun RV Resort Weslaco (956) 968-0322 $9
Dance w/Wally Garza & Texas Blood 7:00 PM Trophy Gardens RV Resort Alamo (956) 787-7717 $8
Encore Concert-Toby 7:00 PM Fun N Sun RV Resort San Benito (956) 399-5125
Jonny Bird 7:00 PM Acacia RV Park Alamo (956) 884-0202 PTH
Mayham Comedy 7:00 PM Alamo Rec Veh Park Alamo (605) 216-6703 $9
Redneck Revival 7:00 PM Fiesta Village Mission (956) 585-9264 $8
Sister Luv 7:00 PM Lemon Tree Estates Mission (419) 733-6384 $9
The Lady & The Outlaw 7:00 PM Orange Grove RV Park Edinburg (956) 383-7931
UTRGV Ballet Folklorico: Huateque 2025
7:00 PM UTRGV Performing Arts Complex
Edinburg (956) 665-3881 $10
Sunday • Jan 19 2025
Treasures & Tea Cups: A Tea Etiquette
Experience 12:00 PM Gelman Stained Glass Museum San Juan (956) 601-0838 $45
Jam & Dance 1:00 PM Fiesta Village Mission (956) 585-9264
Shindig Show 1:00PM Bit O Heaven Donna Dance w/Ron Moshier 1:30 PM Riverside Club Mission (956) 581-1033 Free Gospel Jam 2:00 PM Valley View Estates Mission (308) 641-7665
Sister Luv 2:45 PM Texas Trails RV Resort Pharr (956) 787-6538 $9/$10
Mark Merchant 3:00 PM Tip O Texas RV Resort Pharr (956) 787-9959 $10
Stuffed Pork Chops 4:00 PM Lamplighter MH Subdivision Palmview
Karaoke 5:00 PM Bit-O-Heaven RV and MH Resort Donna (603) 396-2786
Gospel Jam 5:30 PM Lamplighter MH Subdivision Palmview
Acoustic Country Jam 6:00 PM Quiet Village II Subdivision Donna
Jason Whorlow 6:00 PM Lakewood RV Resort Harlingen (956) 423-1170 $10
Continued on the next page
Calendar of Events
Redneck Revival 6:00 PM Alamo Palms RV Resort Alamo (956) 683-5918 $8
Anthony Hernandez Illusionist 7:00 PM Mission
West RV Resort Palmview (956) 585-5551 $10
Curt James w/Lindley Creek 7:00 PM Winter Ranch RV Resort Alamo (956) 781-1358
Goldwing Express 7:00 PM Trophy Gardens RV Resort Alamo (956) 685-5300 $12/$15
Mary Chamberlin & Southern Express 7:00 PM
Paradise South RV Resort Mercedes (956) 565-2044 $9
Senior Ambassadors 7:00 PM Split Rail RV Park Mission (956) 585-8135 PTH
Simply gold Duo 7:00 PM W and I Resort Mission (956) 585-6594 $10
TOBY – Toby Keith Tribute 7:00 PM Victoria Palms RV Resort Donna (956) 464-7801 21,23,25
Monday • Jan 20 2025
Craft Fair 8:00 AM Casa Del Valle RV Alamo (956) 783-5008
Garza “Veggie Man” Produce 12:00 PM Sunshine RV Resort Harlingen (956) 425-7448 Square Dance - Beginner 12:00 PM Alamo Palms RV Resort Alamo (956) 683-5918
ENTERTAINMENT & SHOWS
Jam Session 1:00 PM Alamo Palms RV Resort
Alamo (956) 787-7571
Jam Session 1:00 PM Winter Haven Village Pharr
15th Annual MLK Day at Cine 4:00 PM Cine El Rey Theatre McAllen (956) 278-0626
Happy Hour w/Power Lounge 4:00 PM Tip O
Texas RV Resort Pharr (956) 787-9959 PTH
Salisbury Steak 4:00 PM Lamplighter MH
Subdivision Palmview
Hamburger Night 4:30 PM Mission West RV
Resort Mission (956) 585-0624 $8+
Monday Night Supper 4:30 PM Bentsen Grove
Resort Palmview (956) 585-0703
Karaoke 5:00 PM Alamo Palms RV Resort
Alamo (956) 683-5918
Country Jam 5:30 PM Lamplighter MH
Subdivision Palmview
Monday Jammers 5:30 PM Mission West RV
Resort Mission (956) 585-0624
Rick McEwen 6:00 PM Hidden Valley Ranch
Mission (956) 580-4477
Dance w/Steven May & the Southern Knights 7:00
PM Rio Valley Estates Weslaco (816) 616-8320 $9
Dance w/The Lockhart’s 7:00 PM Country
Sunshine RV Resort Weslaco (956) 969-1557 $9
Mark Merchant, Ventriloquist 7:00 PM Casa
Del Sol Donna (956) 464-2272 $9
Flying Mic Night 9:00 PM The Flying Walrus McAllen (956) 627-0211
Tuesday • Jan 21 2025
Winter Texan Expo 9:00 AM McAllen
Convention Center McAllen (956) 687-5115
2 Hour Riverside Dreamer River Tour 10:30 AM Riverside Club Mission (956) 581-4477
Burgers 11:00 AM Oleander Acres RV Resort Mission (956) 585-9093 $7/$8
Jam Lunch 11:00 AM Roadrunner RV Resort Alamo (763) 229-5318
Trail Dance Lessons-Beginners 11:00 AM Enchanted Valley Ranch Mission (815) 3836783
Taco Tuesday 11:30 AM Sleepy Valley Resort Mission (956) 581-1871 $8
Square Dance - Beginner 12:00 PM Alamo Palms RV Resort Alamo (956) 683-5918
Trail Dance Lessons-Intermediate 12:00 PM Enchanted Valley Ranch Mission (815) 3836783
Dance w/Jim, Tom & Kenny N. 1:00 PM Fiesta Village Mission (956) 585-9264 $9
Jam Session 1:00 PM Roadrunner RV Resort Alamo (763) 229-5318
Jam Session 1:00 PM Oleander Acres RV Resort Mission (219) 898-0722
Riverside Dreamer River Tour 1:00 PM
Riverside Club Mission (956) 581-4477 $13
JAM SESSIONS SALES MEALS
Dance w/Ron Moshier 3:00 PM Mustang Lounge Weslaco (956) 532-8786
Happy Hour w/Regan James 3:00 PM Bit-OHeaven RV and MH Resort (603) 396-2786 PTH
Happy Hour w/Steven May 3:00 PM Snow to Sun RV Resort Weslaco (956) 968-0322
Happy Hour w/Carroll Country Countdown
3:30 PM Park Place Estates RV Resort
Harlingen (956) 428-4414
Fish Fry Night 4:30 PM Mission West RV Resort Mission (956) 585-0624 9+
Happy Hour w/Rick McEwen 5:00 PM Bentsen Grove Resort Palmview (956) 5850703 PTH
Happy Hour w/Tim Dirth 5:00 PM Llano Grande Resort Mercedes (956) 565-2638 PTH
Jam Session 6:30 PM Country Palms RV Park San Juan (956) 787-0680
Anthony Hernandez, Illusionist 7:00 PM Siesta Retirement Village Weslaco (956) 969-3740 $9
Dance w/Steven May & the Southern Knights 7:00 PM Paradise Park RV Resort Harlingen (956) 425-6881
Dance w/Texas Wheels 7:00 PM Victoria Palms RV Resort Donna (956) 464-7801 $8
Jim Brown Straight from Nashville 7:00 PM
Fun N Sun RV Resort San Benito (956) 3995125 $18/$20
Mark Merchant 7:00 PM Casa del Valle RV Resort Alamo (956) 783-5008 $10
Wednesday • Jan 22 2025
NRLCA Insurance Meeting 8:20 AM Victoria Palms RV Resort Donna (816) 390-6379
Winter Texan Expo 9:00 AM McAllen
Convention Center McAllen (956) 687-5115
Goldwing Express Cowboy Church 9:00 AM
Bit-O-Heaven Donna (603) 396-2786
Plus Square Dance 10:00 AM Tropic Star RV Resort Pharr (956) 874-8264
2 Hour Riverside Dreamer River Tour 10:30 AM Riverside Club Mission (956) 581-4477
Burgers & Fries 11:30 AM Chimney Park
MHC Mission (956) 585-5061 $7
Acoustic Jam 12:30 PM Quiet Village II
Subdivision Donna Quilt-A-Bees Quilt Show 12:00 PM Alamo
Rose Alamo (956) 783-2600
Music Jam 12:30 PM Sunshine RV Resort
Harlingen (956) 425-7448
Big Band Jam 1:00 PM Valley View Estates Mission (956) 580-0428
Jam Session 1:00 PM Heritage Square Mission (651) 249-3129
Riverside Dreamer River Tour 1:00 PM
Riverside Club Mission (956) 581-4477 $13
Jam Session 1:30 PM Park Place Estates RV Resort Harlingen (956) 428-4414
3 Fools on 3 Stools 3:00 PM Victoria Palms RV Resort Donna (956) 464-7801 $10
Happy Hour w/Justin Terry 3:00 PM Southern Comfort RV Resort Weslaco (956) 968-3140
Happy Hour w/Regan James 3:00 PM
Leisure World Weslaco (956) 968-8412
Karaoke DJ 3:00 PM McAllen Mission RV Resort Mission (720) 253-8608
Social Hour w/Diego & Edith 3:00 PM Siesta
Retirement Village Weslaco (956) 969-3740 PTH
Happy Hour w/Rusty Rierson 3:30 PM Paradise South RV Resort Mercedes (956) 565-2044
Social Time Dinner 4:30 PM Siesta Retirement Village Weslaco (956) 969-3740 $10
Wednesday Night Meal 4:30 PM Eldorado Acres Palmview (956) 581-6718 $8
Karaoke 5:00 PM Llano Grande Resort and Golf Club Mercedes (956) 565-2638 PTH
Square Dance - MS & Plus w/Rounds 6:30 PM Alamo Palms RV Resort Alamo (956) 683-5918
Anthony Hernandez Illusions 7:00 PM Pine to Palm Resort Park Weslaco (956) 968-5760 $10
Dance w/Night Ryders 7:00 PM Mission West RV Resort Palmview (956) 585-5551 $8
