Did you know I love the month of January? Of course it’s always great to start a new year, but it’s more than that. This week, we get to host the “you-don’t-want-to-miss-this” Winter Texan Expo, January 21 and 22 at the McAllen Convention Center and January 23 at the Brownsville Event Center. It’s hard to explain to someone who has never gone, but let me just say that those who have-keep coming back.
Our WTE is this perfect combination of vendors (restaurants, excursions, apparel, health care, Valley museums, spots for you to check out on your way back up north, and much more), as well as entertainers specially chosen for you. Whether you like to dance, tap your feet, sing along—or all of the above—get ready!
Then, at the end of the month, we set sail on Royal Caribbean’s Jewel of the Seas on the sold-out Cruise with Kristi. Stopping in Cozumel, Grand Cayman, Jamaica, and other ports in Mexico, this senorita and my amigos are ready for another fabulous cruise.
January is just the beginning of another great year! I look forward to seeing you soon!
WINTER TEXAN
Your Connection to the Rio Grande Valley
Value and Fun by Land and by Sea
by Eryn Reddell Wingert
Photos by Sarah Denzer and Kristy Meyer
There are three things that set Welcome Home RGV’s Land and Sea Tours apart from other available options, according to tour director Sarah Denzer: the itinerary, concierge-style service, and value.
“We don’t just sign you up and send you off,” says Denzer. “We’re all about elevated experiences at a great price point.”
There is plenty of evidence to support this claim in the direct feedback from travelers. Travel by Welcome Home, based in McAllen, follows up with a questionnaire after each trip, asking travelers what was enjoyable and what could be improved upon.
For the most part, the ratings are 5 out of 5, with positive feedback provided. Responses to the question, “What would you tell your friends if they asked how Travel by Welcome Home RGV was to vacation with?” after one tour included, “Fun, organized, inexpensive and safe.”; “Superb, outstanding, caring and fun, fun, fun!!”; and “The best way to travel.”
Denzer says a lot of effort goes into planning each excursion, and positive feedback is a great motivator to continue to go above and beyond. Once all the details are set, the team incorporates special touches to enhance the fun.
During last December’s Land & Sea Christmas Tour, Denzer and travel director Kristy Meyer accompanied a group of 47 to explore Galveston (Texas) and beyond aboard Royal Caribbean’s Mariner of the Seas. Their care and attention stood out as a highlight for Ned Vlach, a first-timer with Travel by Welcome Home. “They took care of us, always asking if we needed anything; they went above and beyond.”
“We had little surprises along the way,” says Denzer. Those surprises
Tootie Madden took part in decorating ornaments during the Cozumel excursion.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 2
The Land & Sea Christmas Tour celebrated the holidays with an Ugly Sweater Party the last night of the cruise out of Galveston, Texas.
Carolyn Hein and Roxy Cordes during dinner aboard the ship.
included personalized stockings attached to cabin doors, champagne in their rooms, twinkling Santa hats, comfort stops along the bus route, and accessibility considerations.
The little surprises and special considerations were well received by travelers. Carolyn Hein, 86, has traveled with Welcome Home on various bus trips and cruises. “We don’t feel like anybody else can accommodate us the way those girls can. They are very perceptive to the needs of older people.”
Hein also enjoyed the get-togethers as a group aboard the ship, as did sisters Maria Gomez and Alicia Rios. “We got to know people from different parts of the Valley coming from different parts of the country,” reported Rios.
Group activities included historic bus tours of Galveston, a visit to Moody Gardens, dinners together aboard ship-where travelers shared their champagne with each other-a Cozumel excursion focused on Mexico’s Christmas traditions, and an Ugly-Sweater-Themed Cocktail Party the last night aboard ship.
The sisters immersed themselves in the fun. Rios loves
to dance and, according to Gomez, her enthusiasm is contagious. “She [Alicia] spreads excitement, and I enjoy being with her.”
The two sisters could be seen dancing on deck, and they went all out for the Ugly Sweater Party, which Rios says was out of her comfort zone. “But I just wanted to have fun, and I did!”
Rios, who spends part of the year in La Feria and the rest in Indiana, learned about the Land & Sea Christmas Tour via Welcome Home RGV’s e-newsletter. Tours and Travel by Welcome Home may be based in the Rio Grande Valley, but that
219 W Nolana McAllen, TX 78504
956.687.5115 www.welcomehomergv.com
doesn’t mean you have to be in the vicinity to take part in the adventures. Denzer says travelers can join from anywhere, including the upcoming Land & Sea Alaska and Seattle Tour scheduled for June and Land & Sea Boston to Canada in September.
Considering Travel by Welcome Home’s attention to detail and value, these upcoming trips are destined to be as enjoyable as the annual Land & Sea Christmas Tour, about which another traveler offered this feedback: “Everything is planned, and you have to do nothing but go and enjoy.”
To keep up with travel opportunities, sign up for Welcome Home RGV’s seasonal-weekly newsletter at welcomehomergv.com. To get an even greater sense of all the fun on the recent Land & Sea Christmas Tour, check out the reels at Welcome Home RGV, Winter Texans by Welcome Home, and Tours & Travel by Welcome Home on Facebook or @wintertexans and @welcomehomergv on Instagram.
Visit the Travel by Welcome Home RGV booth at the Winter Texan Expo January 21-22 at the McAllen Convention Center and January 23 at the Brownsville Events Center, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. each day. The team will have the latest pricing information for the Land & Sea Christmas Tour for December 2025.
For a complete list of tour and travel opportunities, visit welcomehomergv.com. •
Calendar Submissions!
For more information on submitting your events and activities, please e-mail: calendar@welcomehomergv.com
The deadline for submision is Fridays at 5:00 p.m.
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
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
Weekly E-Blasts
Kristi’s e-Blasts are sent weekly October-March to our subscribers. Find out what’s happening across the Valley. These e-Blasts include helpful links and fliers for Featured Events.
Find on Youtube Channel “Welcome Home Rio Grande Valley”
Tour director Sarah Denzer and travel director Kristy Meyer pose with St. Nicholas during Galveston’s Dickens on the Strand.
The tour group donned blinking Santa hats courtesy of Welcome Home for the visit to Moody Gardens.
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.
Erasmo Reyes
2025 South Texas Irish Fest
Special to Welcome Home Winter Texan
TBorn and raised in the Valley, Erasmo is a husband and father with a creative mind. He hopes it is something his children will enjoy while growing up. Erasmo started off drawing and eventually took his art into tattooing. He loves how colorful and creative designs can really change a person’s mood. Erasmo has been a tattoo artist for over six years. He also paints on shoes. Erasmo admires the endless talent and techniques of various artists. Erasmo has completed several standpipes to help Keep McAllen Beautiful, including “Colorfull Rain” at the McAllen Youth Baseball Complex on North 29th Street, “Life’s Blend” on Bicentennial and Pecan, and additional masterpieces at Savannah and 10th and 2nd and Martin. “Behind every mind is always a great deal of emotion,” Erasmo writes. “No matter what you go through, you’ll find light in every color.” •
Spotted In The RGV
Edinburg’s Valley Alley Edinburg, Texas
By Eryn Reddell Wingert
This three-dimensional mural of Frida Kahlo is the centerpiece of a multi-mural installation dubbed Edinburg’s Valley Alley. The alleyway’s colorful upgrade was unveiled last summer. According to an article on theendiburgadvocate. com, it is a contribution from the 2025 Leadership Edinburg Class, as part of the revitalization of downtown Edinburg. The alley is located mere blocks from the Hidalgo County Courthouse at 312 E. Cano Street.
he 2025 South Texas Irish Fest is coming soon. The event will be held Saturday, February 22, from noon to 7 p.m. at the Cambria Hotel, 701 S. Ware Rd. in McAllen. It will be a day filled with Irish culture, Irish entertainment, delicious Irish food, dance performances, a unique vendor market, whiskey tastings, family activities, and more. Admission is free. An “Afterparty Session” begins at 7 p.m. in the hotel lobby featuring Irish musicians and dancers. Save the date and join the fun! •
Bachelors of Broadway to Perform in Harlingen January 30
Three of Broadway’s most dynamic male vocalists will perform the biggest hits from the most beloved musicals of all time in a special concert at Christian Fellowship Church, 901 N. Loop 499 in Harlingen Thursday, January 30, at 7:30 p.m.
Performed by three of New York City’s top theatrical performers, Bachelors of Broadway offers soaring and thrilling melodies in contemporary three-part vocal harmony. Brought to you by the creators of Shades of Bublé and Two on Tap, this show breathes new life into vintage classics from the Golden Age of Broadway, with visually dynamic multimedia elements and lush symphonic arrangements of songs from
Special to Welcome Home Winter Texan
both contemporary and classic musicals, including Wicked, Phantom of the Opera, Hamilton, West Side Story, and more!
The Harlingen Concert Association has been presenting internationally acclaimed artists to the community since the 1930s. This all-volunteer, nonprofit organization is committed to enriching the cultural life of the Harlingen area through live performances. Thanks to loyal season ticketholders and sponsors, these concerts can be offered at affordable, family-friendly prices.
For ticket information, visit the association’s website at HarlingenConcert.com or call 956-392-9757. •
A Giving Heart Comes Naturally to “The Girls”
Special to Welcome Home Winter Texan
You know how some people can just warm your heart--heir smile, a hug, that certain look they give you to encourage you? Well, let us introduce y’all to three of those heartwarming friends we have here at The Lamb’s Loom. These girls—a mom and her two daughters--are just the best-est! We have two generations of best-est, right here. They came here a number of years ago to take a class and learn something together. Then they heard our story and jumped right in. We shared with them that by learning, they could then help by adding their own handmade items to our Donation Chest. Those items would be sent to a mission group somewhere in the world. We currently serve 26 groups, and their needs are countless, from headbands to hats, shawls, and blankets. These groups we provide items for, serve here in the Rio Grande Valley and all over the world.
Well, “the girls” began making items to add to the chest. Then, all three signed up to volunteer their time and talents to help us move forward in this journey. Smiling, from the beginning, they help with anything that is needed. Teaching, stocking, sweeping the floor, or watering a few plants, they are on it. A “giving heart” just comes naturally to them. And what a blessing it is to have these friends in our lives, living out the #loveineverystitch we say
Rio Valley Estates
so often around here. We love our Shepherds! We hope you will join us as we #stitchitforward together, sending a hug in a hat, or a smile in a scarf.
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! •
Things I Have Learned
Things I Have Learned
Things I Have Learned
A somewhat random and reckless look at life from a fairly old guy
A somewhat random and reckless look at life from a fairly old guy
A somewhat random and reckless look at life from a fairly old guy
I’m Betting on the Old Folks
TODAY’S WISDOM:
TODAY’S WISDOM:
Every skill you acquire doubles your odds of success. . ~Scott Adams
Every skill you acquire doubles your odds of success. . ~Scott Adams
by Bill Ward
Iby Bill Ward
by Bill Ward
TII’m Betting on the Old Folks
The Night of the Frozen Pig
find it amazing, the wide variety of skillsets I possess that today’s younger generations just don’t share. I am an expert at making an operator-assisted phone call with a rotary telephone. I am quite at home butchering a chicken that I have caught with my own chicken catcher. I can write a real letter--on paper-using cursive. I can drive a car with a clutch and stick shift. I can balance a paper checkbook register. I even know how to turn a television roof antenna by using a rotor, and I can change channels by standing up, walking to the TV, and turning the dial manually.
oday’s Wisdom: There’s always room for a story that can transport people to another place. ~ J.K. Rowling
find it amazing, the wide variety of skillsets I possess that today’s younger generations just don’t share. I am an expert at making an operator-assisted phone call with a rotary telephone. I am quite at home butchering a chicken that I have caught with my own chicken catcher.
Once upon a time, (I always wanted to start a column with that line) way back when I was working as a police officer, I had an interesting experience. I was working a very cold winter night shift. As I drove through an alley behind a bar, there--near the back door--stood a pig. On closer examination I found him to be frozen solid, standing up on all four legs.
I can write a real letter--on paper-using cursive. I can drive a car with a clutch and stick shift. I can balance a paper checkbook register. I even know how to turn a television roof antenna by using a rotor, and I can change channels by standing up, walking to the TV, and turning the dial manually.
In those days I often carried my camera in the car for the very purpose of capturing the bizarre and unusual. This clearly fit the bill, so I snapped a few photos.
If the world collapses suddenly and we all have to return to old skills, I am ready. Unfortunately, until then, these and many other skills I possess are absolutely useless today.
How much brain space is consumed with files of old skills I will never use again?
I am thinking it is a lot. But even if I could, I would never push the delete button on any of it. By learning how to make a call through the operator, I was able to call out to my grandma’s farm any time I wanted to. By sharing the butchering duties when the family gathered at my grandma’s farm, I learned what I was capable of, and I gained great stories to share with my kids. (I bet a good share of you all have chasing headless chicken stories.)
pig came back to haunt me. There was a large calendar in the police department, with photos of all of the officers. The chief’s photo was prominently positioned at the top of the collage. On this day, however, the picture of our frozen pig was pasted over the top of the chief. This did not go over well; not at all. And who among the officers working that night was known to carry a camera?
I am thinking it is a lot. But even if I could, I would never push the delete button on any of it. By learning how to make a call through the operator, I was able to call out to my grandma’s farm any time I wanted to. By sharing the butchering duties when the family gathered at my grandma’s farm, I learned what I was capable of, and I gained great stories to share with my kids. (I bet a good share of you all have chasing headless chicken stories.)
The subsequent investigation failed to reveal the pig paster (or who defiled the chief). It is even possible that they believed I didn’t do it. I didn’t, but how do you prove a negative? Nothing more came of it, and the whole experience just became one more story to add to my collection.
more you all remember. And every time I made an entry in my checkbook, I got to experience gratitude for the blessings our family had.
I don’t remember details about most of my police shifts. However, 47 years later, I still remember the night the frozen pig got me in trouble. It’s a fun story and part of my growing collection.
more you all remember. And every time I made an entry in my checkbook, I got to experience gratitude for the blessings our family had.
If the world collapses suddenly and we all have to return to old skills, I am ready. Unfortunately, until then, these and many other skills I possess are absolutely useless today.
Learning to drive a stick was quality time spent with my dad. He was patient, even when I stalled the engine. Because I could drive a stick, I also got to drive the truck at harvest on my in-laws’ farm later on. Those were fun days.
Word of the frozen pig soon got out, and other officers made their way downtown to check it out. In those days, our nights were often pretty quiet, so this was proving to be an amusing diversion.
Learning to drive a stick was quality time spent with my dad. He was patient, even when I stalled the engine. Because I could drive a stick, I also got to drive the truck at harvest on my in-laws’ farm later on. Those were fun days.
In the 1950s and 60s, watching TV was family time, after the homework was done and the house chores were finished. We watched family shows: Bonanza, Red Skelton, Jack Benny, I Love Lucy, and many
We all have them, fun stories that color our lives and make for great conversation. Here’s an idea. Next time you have a gathering of family or friends, ask everyone to bring one story to share. See how long the conversation goes. I’m just suggestin’. •
I know I am obsolete in many ways, but I sure had a good time getting to this point. I hope I don’t need those old skills anymore because it has been fun learning new skills, too. But if we all ever need to go into survival mode, my money is on the old folks.
I’m just sayin’. •
I know I am obsolete in many ways, but I sure had a good time getting to this point. I hope I don’t need those old skills anymore because it has been fun learning new skills, too. But if we all ever need to go into survival mode, my money is on the old folks.
I’m just sayin’. •
At some point later in the week, the
How much brain space is consumed with files of old skills I will never use again?
One of the things I have learned is that the good stories we collect in our lives usually happen when we least expect them. We can’t plan for them. We don’t go out each day seeking stories; most just fall in our laps, much like my pig. Perhaps that is what makes them special, little gifts for our book of life.
In the 1950s and 60s, watching TV was family time, after the homework was done and the house chores were finished. We watched family shows: Bonanza, Red Skelton, Jack Benny, I Love Lucy, and many
Bill Ward is a retired health-care administrator from Minnesota and a regular columnist, author, and untalented rock ‘n’ roll musician, playing with the band Night Ryders. He winters at Casa Del Sol in Donna. You can contact Bill by email at bwward@ charter.net.
Bill Ward is a retired healthcare administrator from Minnesota and a regular columnist, author, and untalented rock ‘n’ roll musician, playing with the band Night Ryders. He winters at Casa Del Sol in Donna. You can contact Bill by email at bwward@charter.net.
Bill Ward is a retired healthcare administrator from Minnesota and a regular columnist, author, and untalented rock ‘n’ roll musician, playing with the band Night Ryders. He winters at Casa Del Sol in Donna. You can contact Bill by email at bwward@charter.net.
The 29th Annual Winter Wildlife Expo will be held at the South Padre Island Birding Nature Center & Alligator Sanctuary February 6-8. Admission is $10 per day. Saturday, February 8, is Family Day, when all kids 15 and Enjoy three days of fascinating presentations covering an array of topics in coastal nature and pre-Expo field trips visiting the wildest
Register for a fun and educational guided coastal nature adventure February 3-5. These tours will showcase the best of nature and will
To learn more about this popular annual event and to register for
SUNSHINE RV RESORT
1900 Grace Ave, Harlingen (956) 428-4137
1/29/2025
COUNTRY SUNSHINE RV RESORT
1601 S Airport Dr, Weslaco (956) 969-1557
1/30/2025 (matinee 3-5 pm available)
ALAMO PALMS RV RESORT
1341 W Bus Hwy 83, Alamo (956)787-7571
1/31/2025
FUN-N-SUN RV RESORT
1400 Zillock Rd, San Benito (956) 399-5125
2/1/2025
VICTORIA PALMS HOTEL & RV RESORT
602 N Victoria Rd, Donna (956) 782-3200
2/2/2025
Forty Years of Trophy Gardens in Alamo
Special to Welcome Home Winter Texan
Friday, January 3, Trophy Gardens RV Resort in Alamo celebrated its 40th anniversary in the Rio Grande Valley.
Trophy Gardens was never supposed to be an RV resort. Initially, it was to be a housing development. When that fell through, Charles and Darrel Yoder of the Cadillac dealership in McAllen and John Phillips from Alamo Bank decided to develop the property as an RV park. There was nothing on the property. At that time, 495 was a two-lane road. Across the street was a grapefruit grove, and farmland was all around.
In the hot summer of 1984, plumbing and electricity were installed, and a few buildings were built, mainly to support construction. November 1, the property was complete enough to begin registering guests. A ribbon-cutting ceremony took place January 4, 1985, officially opening Trophy Gardens RV Resort.
From the first Open House, where interested Winter Texans were given free food and shown around the property, Trophy Gardens grew, finding in the second season that every open site in the Resort was filled. Over the last four decades, Trophy Gardens has been a part of the Alamo community, not only having individuals return year after year but also seeing families coming generation after generation.
As part of the 40th anniversary celebration, current guests and staff at Trophy Gardens reminisced about its history, shared stories of how some of them came to be part of the community, played a slideshow depicting many of the fun activities and adventures its residents have enjoyed over the years, and even viewed a videotaped message from Trophy Gardens’ first manager, Bonnie Christian. Although Bonnie could not be present during the celebration due to family commitments, she will be back at Trophy Gardens later this month, her 40th year at the Resort. The trip down memory lane ended with challenging Trophy Gardens trivia, and cake was served. In addition to current Resort manager Dan Rockwood’s involvement
in the celebration, several Alamo officials, including Mayor J.R. Garza, multiple commissioners, the chief of police, the fire chief, and the head of the Alamo Chamber of Commerce took part. It was a great honor for all of these people to take time from their busy schedules to join in the celebration.
To quote from the City of Alamo Facebook page, “For four decades, this special place has been more than just a park; it’s been a home, a family, and a cornerstone of Alamo’s Winter Texan community.” It could not have been said any better. •
Perspectives
The Hands and Feet of Jesus at Winter Ranch RV Resort
by Paula Key, chaplain’s wife
Have you ever met people who give and give of their time, energy, and money and never quit, no matter how bad or weak they feel? We’ve got TWO such people in our park! They are Pat Sullivan, originally from Minnesota, and Lou Ayres from Michigan.
Pat Sullivan has been doing mission work in Mexico for 20 years. He is a retired building contractor and has built numerous projects in Nuevo Progreso, Mexico, such as four churches, a community center, school classrooms, and houses. He has also remodeled four church/halfway houses in and around Progreso, Matamoros, and Reynosa. For 12 years, he and his helpers have held a Christmas party for around 550 kids, as well as many other parties. They have also taken over truckloads of food, clothing, and household goods and appliances. Recently, they built about 1,000 queen-sized double bunk beds for the poor, giving 4,000 to 5,000 people a nice place to sleep off of the concrete and dirt floors.
Pat had a stroke about three years ago, but he still goes, even with his walker. Once or twice a week, he delivers truckloads of necessities. The halfway house for 80 men and women is currently being remodeled. Then there’s the orphanage and the state prison and the lady prisoners’ sewing room furnished with sewing machines, material, patterns, and more. The lady prisoners now make mattresses for the needy and Pat and his helpers pay them for their handiwork. This provides work and money for the ladies to help meet their own needs. The Bible says in Proverbs 19:17, “When you give to the poor, it is like lending to the LORD, and the LORD will pay you back.”
Then there’s Lou Ayres, working for the Lord on “this” side of the border. Lou has set up--and maintains--a donation center for the Winter Ranch residents to bring their donations for the charitable outreaches of Arise Adelante in Alamo and Outcry in the Barrio in Pharr. When the bins are full, he delivers the donated items, often several times a week, with the help of other residents who have trucks to deliver appliances, bikes, and other large items. At season’s end, food donations keep Lou busy, delivering them to Arise on an almost daily basis. Twice a year, he also purchases and delivers to Arise and Barrio hundreds of pounds of food bought with church funds.
Coordinating Christmas stockings for Arise children is one of Lou’s favorite activities. He purchases 300 Christmas stockings and maintains a list of items needed to fill them. Winter Ranch residents are wonderful at completing that list. Then they joyfully help to set up, stuff the stockings, and deliver them.
Lou also videotapes the church services every Sunday to allow current and past residents, unable to attend in person, to participate in Winter Ranch worship (many from nursing homes and remote locations). Again, the Bible says in Acts 20:35, “...working in this way, we ought to help the weak and to remember the words the Lord Jesus said, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’”
Kudos to both Pat and Lou for all of their labors of love! •
Chaplain Dennis Key and his wife, Paula, serve at Winter Ranch RV Resort in Alamo. They are with Christian Resort Ministries, which provides nondenominational worship services in RV resorts throughout the RGV. You may contact them at offdkey@yahoo.com. You may also contact Christian Resort Ministries at crmintl.org regarding opportunities to serve in your community.
We worship Saturdays at 4:00 p.m. and Sundays at 8:00 a.m. and 10:30 a.m
Pat Sullivan
Lou Ayres
Fly High at the 2025 SPI Kite Fest
Special to Welcome Home Winter Texan
Get ready for a mesmerizing display of talent and creativity at the 2025 SPI Kite Fest! This beloved event will again bring incredible indoor kite performances to the South Padre Island Convention Center for two unforgettable evenings. Whether you’re a longtime fan or experiencing Kite Fest for the first time, this event promises to inspire awe and rekindle the childhood joy of kite flying.
Two Nights, Two Unique Shows
Mark your calendars for February 3 and 4, when Kite Fest transforms the indoor arena into a stage of aerial artistry:
• Monday Night: A Tribute to the Big Screen
Watch as master kite flyers take you on a cinematic journey, choreographing their kites to iconic movie scores. The performances are sure to evoke nostalgia and magic, as the skies indoors are painted with color and grace.
• Tuesday Night: Texas Skies & Island Vibes
Celebrate the spirit of Texas and the essence of South Padre Island with performances set to music that captures the beauty and energy of the Lone Star State and its coastal paradise. Each show begins at 6:30 p.m., lasting approximately two hours.
Tickets and Information
Tickets for the indoor shows must be purchased in advance. Visit B&S Kites to secure yours. This event sells out every year, so don’t wait to reserve your spot! The 2025 SPI Kite Fest is a cherished tradition that brings together community, creativity, and family fun. Don’t miss your chance to witness these world-class performances and be part of the magic. For more information, visit sopadre.com/events. •
Mobile Park, McAllen
$76,900
$21,900
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
Looking for a place to call your own? Stop by and check out this 2 bedroom, 1.5 bath with Texas room addition perfect for entertainment. Heather Escobedo, TREC686290, (956) 271-3683
McAllen Mobile Park, McAllen
$89,900
$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
Looking for a home in a friendly 55+ community? Look no further than this 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom mobile home located in Tropical Valley Acres. Heather Escobedo, TREC686290, (956) 271-3683
Look no further! This 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom home includes a Texas room, a split bedroom concept, and even comes fully furnished. Heather Escobedo, TREC686290, (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 2-bedroom 2-bathroom brick home is a must-see! Located in the 55+ community of La Hacienda, this property offers lots of updated features. 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
$119,900
$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
This furnished 2 bedroom, 1.5 bath includes a front carport, a large rear access garage (396 sqft), and even a spacious storage room (294 sqft). Heather Escobedo, TREC686290, (956) 2713683
Valley Acres, Mission
$145,000
$69,900
$225,000
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
This desirable corner property includes lots 58 and 59 and is adjacent to the 18-hole par 3 private golf course and includes utility connections. Heather Escobedo, TREC686290, (956) 271-3683
Hidden Valley Ranch, Mission
Hidden Valley Ranch, Mission
Wagon City South, Mission
$99,900
$179,900
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
This fully furnished home offers an open-concept living and dinein kitchen area, that showcases all electric appliances and generous counter and cabinet space. Heather Escobedo, TREC686290, (956) 271-3683
Restful Valley Ranch, Mission
Village, Mission
Stunning 2 bdrm, 2 bath home with RV parking, outdoor kitchen, screened porch, quartz counters, home theater, wholehouse generator, 2-car garage, resort amenities, and prime location near trails and birding! Carol Kerr Welch, TREC540183, (956) 900-8487
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
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
Searching for a 2 bedroom home where you own the lot? Located in the friendly 55+ community of Tropical Valley Acres, this 2 bedroom 1.5 bathroom mobile home comes fully furnished. Heather Escobedo, TREC686290, (956) 271-3683
$74,900 $175,000
Alamo Country Club
Hidden Valley Ranch, Mission
$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
Spacious 3 bed/2bath 1900 sqft home in Alamo Country Club. This home is move-in ready with everything you need for a Winter vacation home! It comes fully furnished INCLUDING the golf cart! Curt Riester, TREC771832, MHSLSP00047858, (956) 4554195
$112,900
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
Check out this immaculate 18 x 60 Oak Creek mobile home located in Hidden Valley Ranch, a 55+ gated community. This 2 bedroom, 2-bathroom home comes semifurnished and is move-in ready. Heather Escobedo, TREC686290, (956) 271-3683
Wagon City South, Mission
Adobe Wells, McAllen
$135,000
$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
WOWSA - This large renovated and remodeled 2 bd/2bath mobile home in Adobe Wells Country Club in McAllen comes fully furnished with a golf cart and features Generac whole home generator. This active 55+ community has golf, pool, billiards and more... Curt Riester, TREC771832, MHSLSP00047858, (956) 455-4195
McAllen
Retama Village, Mission
Retama Village, Mission
McAllen Mobile Park, McAllen
Llano Grande Resort, Mercedes
Alamo Country Club, Alamo
Llano Grande Resort, Mercedes
Wagon City North, Mission
Adobe Wells, McAllen
Heritage Square, Mission
Tropical Valley Acres, Mission
Wagon City South, Mission
La Hacienda, Mission
Retama
Tropical
DANCES ENTERTAINMENT & SHOWS
Calendar of Events
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 Free Admission (956) 687-5115
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
She Came to the Valley Movie Screening
10:00 AM Mission Historical Museum (956) 580-8646
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 $8
Quilt-A-Bees Quilt Show 12:00 PM Alamo
Rose RV Resort Alamo (956) 783-2600 $3
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
Jam Session 12:30 PM Trails End Resort
Weslaco (956) 968-5051
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
She Came to the Valley Movie Screening
2:00 PM Mission Historical Museum (956) 580-8646
3 Fools on 3 Stools 3:00 PM Victoria Palms RV Resort Donna (956) 464-7801 $10
Dance w/Justin Terry 7:00 PM Country Sunshine RV Resort Weslaco (956) 969-1557 $10
Dance w/Sweetwater 7:00 PM Rio Valley Estates Weslaco (816) 616-8320 $9
Mark Merchant 7:00 PM Aladdin Villas Mission (956) 581-1288 $9
JAM SESSIONS SALES MEALS
Movin’ Melvin 7:00 PM Palm Shadows Resort
Donna (956) 597-6900 $12
My Friend Loretta Lynn 7:30 PM McAllen
Performing Arts Center (956) 681-3000
Tuesday • Jan 28 2025
Pickleball On Padre Tournament 8:00 AM
South Padre Island Convention SPI (413) 8960756
Llano Grande Annual Quilt Show 9:00 AM Llano Grande Resort Mercedes (956) 565-2638 $5
She Came to the Valley Movie Screening 10:00 AM Mission Historical Museum (956) 580-8646
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
Kanabec County Reunion 11:00 AM Mr. Gatti’s McAllen
Trail Dance Lessons-Beginners 11:00 AM
Enchanted Valley Ranch Mission (815) 3836783
P.E.O. Magic Valley Retirement Group
Meeting 11:30 AM Mr. Gatti’s Weslaco (402) 641-0125
Taco Tuesday 11:30 AM Sleepy Valley Resort Mission (956) 581-1871 $8
