Ric’s cover story in this issue made me want to stand up and sing, “Oklahoma, where the wind comes sweepin’ down the plain…” How can anyone see Oklahoma without singing along?
And how can we get through December without watching A Christmas Carol? Seeing it live, at a community theatre like Camille Lightner Playhouse, makes it even better. I often think about the time everyone involved dedicates to these productions. It is their love for theatre that inspires them to volunteer their time and talents to entertain and inspire us.
The Rio Grande Valley is blessed to have a wide variety of arts events throughout the year, from highschool productions to annual city events, mariachi performances, ballet and folklorico, and community theatre. Be sure to browse the Welcome Home RGV calendar frequently so you don’t miss any of them!
In addition to the cover story, this issue provides you with opportunities to give, learn, line dance, have breakfast like the ranch hands, and discover how the Valley rings in the holidays.
We’re just connecting the dots…
WINTER TEXAN
Your Connection to the Rio Grande Valley
Brownsville Theater Sharpens Appeal to Winter Texans
Story by Ric Cavazos
Brandon Binder analyzed last season’s attendance at the Camille Lightner Playhouse and came away with an important conclusion.
“We had lower numbers from Winter Texans,” said Binder, the theater’s artistic director. “Winter Texans made up 30 percent of our audience.”
Binder and Camille’s leadership figured the iconic Brownsville theater should be more of a draw in the Rio Grande Valley’s Winter Texan community. The theater’s advertising and marketing campaigns have been revised and sharpened to focus on the Winter Texan market.
“We know they’re seeking
things to do and events to attend,” said Martie DiGregorio, who chairs the theater’s board of directors. “Community theaters are nationwide. Winter Texans may have had previous exposure to them, and we’re happy to go to them and explain the services and shows we offer.”
On The Comeback
The Camille Playhouse is an institution in Brownsville. Community theater in the city got its start in 1963 at a vacant cotton sampling warehouse on Central Boulevard. It moved the following year to its present location at Dean Porter Park. A new fa-
cility was built there and named to honor the memory of Camille Sams Lightner. She was the sister of Gladys Sams Porter, who is the namesake of the famed zoo across the street from the theater on Ringgold Road. The theater has endured ever since. Productions throughout the years are displayed with show posters hung in Camille’s second stage grand room. Its biggest challenge may have come in 2020 and 2021 with the outbreak of COVID-19 and the limitations placed on public gatherings. The Playhouse is still on the mend from those years.
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The casts of productions at The Camille Playhouse are chosen after auditions, and Winter Texans are welcome to try out for roles and to volunteer in support roles. [Courtesy photos]
“COVID really did a number on us,” DiGregorio said. “We’re still recovering, and slowly but surely, we’re making strides.”
Another board member, David Salinas, says many community theaters weren’t so fortunate and did not survive the COVID years.
“We’re still here,” Salinas said. “Thanks to community support and donations we received, we’re not in that bucket, (theater shutdowns).”
Winter Texans, Camille leadership hopes, will be a significant part of the theater’s continuing recovery.
Upcoming Shows
Seven shows will be featured during the 2024-25 season at the Camille Playhouse.
Two productions – Into the Woods and The Crucible – were the featured shows in September and October, respectively. Next up is A Christmas Carol and Rogers & Hammerstein’s Oklahoma! The Christmas play will run from early to mid-December. The Oklahoma production debuts on January 31, with its last show February 9.
219 W Nolana
McAllen, TX 78504
956.687.5115 www.welcomehomergv.com
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
These two shows are classic productions geared to appeal to Winter Texan audiences.
Binder says The Playhouse is open to putting on more productions likely to appeal to Winter Texans during their stay in the Valley. The makeup of audiences helps the theater map out its productions for upcoming seasons.
“It’s difficult for us to do shows if we’re not sure of the groups coming in,” Binder said. There’s another area where Winter Texans can be of help to Camille. The Playhouse has only two paid staffers. Actors and production-support crews in lighting, live music, and choreography participate as volunteers. Winter Texans are welcome to audition for casting roles if they are available for the length of a show’s run, as well as working in the important support jobs.
“We don’t turn anyone away,” DiGregorio
said.
“This is your community theater.”
For more information, go to camilleplayhouse.net or call 956-542-8900. •
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.
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”
Keep McAllen Beautiful –Meet the Artist
Keep McAllen Beautiful (KMB) introduces the artists behind the irrigation pipe masterpieces through their Meet the Artist series. Welcome Home Winter Texan reached out to Chris Lash, KMB program manager, and asked for permission to share the series. She readily agreed. Look for Meet the Artist in our issues throughout the 2024 – 2025 season.
Chris Lash has been employed by the City of McAllen, for 23 years. She currently serves as the program manager for Keep McAllen Beautiful (KMB). Her responsibilities include establishing projects and events that will help achieve KMB’s mission to expand awareness about littering and recycling and to promote beatification and preservation in McAllen.
Francisco is a first-generation Mexican American who lives in Mission. He got his bachelor’s in studio art at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, and his favorite medium is acrylic painting. Francisco also works with ceramics, drawing, and oil painting. The thing he likes most about art is that there is room for improvement and he is able to confront new challenges. Francisco’s masterpiece is found along the drainage ditch on Auburn and Main. •
Winter Texan Spotlight 3rd Annual Line Dance Bash Coming in January
Story by Eryn Reddell Wingert
courtesy: Pat Yoder
The origin of line dancing is not really clear--or the style was derived from a multitude of cultures. After a quick internet search, it appears possible influences include European, African, and Caribbean folk dances.
The style of dance recognized today took off in America in the middle of the last century, according to the search, with a boost in popularity in the 1980s, influenced by the movie Urban Cowboy.
The trend was furthered in the 1990s with the release of songs like “Achy Breaky Heart” and “Macarena.”
Today, it is an increasingly popular pastime at local RV parks and resorts; many offer classes on their activities roster.
Pat Yoder and her husband, Ted, took it up when they started visiting South Texas a few years ago. Now permanent residents, Pat is a line-dance instructor at Pharr South RV Resort, and the couple enjoy learning new steps and choreography by visiting other parks in the area.
Yoder says, before the pandemic, line-dancing workshops were common. Afterward, Yoder saw a need to step up (pun intended) and created the RGV Line Dance Bash, a workshop for line dancers of all skill levels.
Line dancing is fairly self-explanatory. Dancers form single-file lines, no partner required, and repeat a sequence of basic or complex steps, depending on the beat of the music.
Yoder says it’s also easy to learn. “Once you’re a beginner, it doesn’t seem like you stay a beginner long.”
If you have ever wondered how
a random group of people seem to all know the same steps to a particular song, Pat shared that choreographers craft routines and teach them in a class or workshop or post videos online for all to learn.
Off the top of her head, Yoder’s favorite: “Lonely Drum,” a dance named after the country song. “It has completely different combinations and is not as repetitive; it’s different all the way through.”
Dances with more tricky moves include “The Monterrey” and a line dance set to the fast-paced song from the movie of the same name, Footloose.
The 2025 RGV Line Dance Bash is crafted to accommodate newbies and seasoned dancers alike, with a variety of music and popular dances commonly performed at dance halls in the South Texas.
The workshop is gaining in popularity. Its first year saw 100 participants; its second, 120. This year, to accommodate the growth, the event is moving from Pharr South to the Main Hall at Tropic Star RV Resort in Pharr, 1401 S. Cage Blvd.
The event takes place Saturday, January 25, 2025, from 12:30 to 4:30 p.m. Advance tickets sales are open January 1 until the date of the event. Spectators are welcome, with ticketed entry. Tickets are $5. Call Pat Yoder at 913-488-3650 for more information.
Spotted In The RGV MPAC Statue
By Eryn Reddell Wingert
The McAllen Performing Arts Center is a state-of-the-art facility that features dance, symphonic, comedic, and Broadway performances. The emphasis on the arts begins before you walk into the building. Elements within the design and surrounding landscape pay homage to South Texas culture and history. Visitors are greeted by a bronze sculpture, Vaquero of Nuevo Santander, by artist Jason Scull. The cowboy looks over his shoulder at a longhorn and calf, symbolic of the region’s cattle-ranching history.
Photo
Hello Travel Friends Christmas in the Valley
Hello, Travel Friends,
Most of you are down here to escape the cold weather and snow-shoveling months up North. I grew up in Kansas City, and I don’t think I could ever go back to scraping the ice off my car windshield again! We’ve all made the right decision to leave that cold weather behind and enjoy the warmer temperatures of the Rio Grande Valley. The only time I miss the weather change is during the holidays. Something about a little snow outside and a big fluffy coat make it feel more like Christmas. Now that I’ve been here for over 10 years, I realize there are a lot of fun things to do down here to bring in the festive spirit.
A tradition my family can’t go without is attending the McAllen Holiday Parade. If you’ve never attended, you should think about adding it to your holiday calendar. Not only will you see local high school bands and teams proudly marching down the Parade route, but you’ll enjoy numerous floats, giant character balloons, and fun costumes. It really is quite the production. This event is the first Saturday in December, and you can purchase a ticket to watch it from inside the McAllen High School stadium or bring a chair and find a spot along Bicentennial.
If you’re in the mood for something down at the Island, head down December 7 for the Lighted Boat Parade hosted by Port Isabel. This tradition is full of fun, with boats lining up on the bay side, full of lights, music, and a good time. You can watch the Parade from anywhere along the bayside or grab a ticket and be in the Parade yourself. Grab some friends and get a spot--while you still can--to be part of the event. You’ll get festive refreshments and some light-up swag as part of your ticket. This can be booked at welcomehomergv.com, while supplies last.
Another fun event to bring the holiday vibes is the Holiday Village in Brownsville. This event offers free admission and is open from November 25 through January 1. Here, you’ll find a darling little Christmas village and feel like you’re taking a visit to the North Pole (without the cold)! Stop in for local entertainment, a printable scavenger hunt, and other holiday activities.
The Hidalgo Festival of Lights is another event to add to your holiday calendar. This is the 33rd year for this event, and the theme is Under the Sea. You can take a train trolley through the lights, enjoy lo-
cal entertainment nightly, and even get a ticket that includes a special holiday meal. If you don’t want to walk around, no problem. Just stay in your car and drive through the wonderful light display. Maybe bring some hot cocoa along for the full holiday effect. This event lasts all month and will get busier the closer we get to Christmas. If you think your park would be interested in doing this as a group, I have some bus trips going down for the VIP experience. Ask your activity director to give me a call before spaces fill up!
These are just a few of the many things there are to experience during the holidays in the RGV. Take a look at all of the city websites and Facebook pages to see what other events, parades, and activities are scheduled. Start filling up your calendars today so you don’t miss any of the holiday fun!
~Sarah Denzer, tour director •
Things I Have Learned A somewhat random and reckless look at life from a fairly old guy
We’ve Only Just Begun
TODAY’S WISDOM:
God gave us the gift of life; it is up to us to give ourselves the gift of living well. ~Voltaire
by Bill Ward
“We’ve only just begun…to live. White lace and promises. A kiss for luck and we’re on our way.” Those lyrics from the Carpenters’ 1970 hit song recently popped into my brain in the middle of the night. I have no idea where they came from, as I hadn’t heard the song in years. But there I was, lying in bed in the dark, remembering the day my bride and I did exactly that.
We walked out of that church with a bit of excitement, a bit of awe at what we had just done, and a bit of unstated fear about where life might be going next. The path before us was just an unpainted canvas, waiting for us to fill it with wonderful things.
Now, some 50 years later, that canvas is mostly painted. I must say, I am pretty impressed. Had I known what those subsequent 50 years were going to look like back then, I don’t think I would have been as apprehensive. But I might have changed a few things.
Life is never perfect. I would skip the ambulance rides, the sick kids, and the marriage lows. I would actually meet the daughter I am still waiting to meet. I would really learn something in college. I would practice guitar more. I would totally skip the day I heard the word “cancer.”
In other words, I would change all of the things all of you would change. I would eliminate the painful stuff. I would do it, knowing full well that those experiences are what gave me character and strength. Surviving tough stuff is good for us. Forgive me if I’m just not feeling the need for it.
One of the things I’ve learned is that life isn’t a Hallmark movie. Those end with “a kiss for luck and we’re on our way.” Real life is what happens after the movie ends. That is where most of us find ourselves today.
Now that you are well seasoned, it is my hope that your canvas has been painted beautifully. I hope the bright colors overwhelm the dark spots. I hope you painted it big and bold, and when you sign the lower corner as a finished work of art someday, you sign it with pride.
I’m just sayin’. •
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.
ENTERTAINMENT LIVE MUSIC DOOR
JANUARY
Mighty Homes of Hope
Special to Welcome Home Winter Texan
Have y’all heard of Habitat for Humanity’s annual fundraiser, Mighty Homes of Hope? The Lamb’s Loom has now participated in this community event for the last four years. Everyone around here pitched in, and we’re at it again this year. We all get involved, from coming up with a theme to putting the last bit of yarn on.
Our Mighty Home is finished for this year and has been submitted for judging. The theme for our home every year has centered around Habitat and its mission, to provide homes to vulnerable and deserving families here in the Rio Grande Valley. This year, the theme for our home is Habitat’s Helping Hand.
Mighty Homes of Hope works like this: When you sign up, they provide every participant with a little birdhouse. Then you get busy decorating your house. Get out those glue guns, paint, use popsicle sticks, you name it--and get to work. After all the participants turn in their homes, they are auctioned off to the public to raise money for Habitat. That means all of the groups and organizations that participate are contributing their time and talents to help out, and the public gets to join in and help out during the auctioning off process, too. It’s a win-win for everyone in our community!
You can view all of the entries in person. They will be on display at North Park Lexus Rio Grande Valley, 410 I-2 in San Juan, from November 5 through December 3. The Mighty Home online auction runs from November 19 through December 3.
Habitat for Humanity does such wonderful work here in the Rio Grande Valley. We have been blessed to see this effort grow and are excited to see it continue. So mark your calendar for next year, and have your park get involved, too. Our prayer is that the love of our community will continue to grow to serve the housing needs in South Texas.
For now, we have put the glue gun down and are knitting and crocheting away in our Sit-n-Knit Room to fill our Donation Chest. It’s the end of our distribution year, and items are being handed out to many of the mission groups we serve. We hope you will join us 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! •
Through the Eyes of a Duck
Special to Welcome Home Winter Texan
by Alden “Ace” Moore, Winter Texan
Several of us ducks have just returned from our early morning sojourn down to the taqueria on Old Port Isabel, where we have been hoping to hit a tortilla chip bonanza. We’ve also picked up a lot of gossip from other ducks that have come in from other areas of Brownsville.
Our Resaca is a great place to spread duck gossip. It’s a veritable quack grapevine of knowledge, and we feel pretty smug as we share what we learned at the taqueria from the other ducks. Most of our morning is spent contemplating life’s mysteries, like who are those strange creatures who walk along the side of the Resaca on two feet? Some are in groups, others are moving at varying paces by themselves, and some are moving quite quickly. Does this last group have keener eyesight than the rest? Have they spotted a juicy morsel and are homing in to get it before the others see it? What strange layers they have! None of them seem to be covered in feathers. How strange. Don’t they realize the importance of feathers in keeping you dry and helping to fan you on hot days? They have absolutely no fashion sense.
Sometimes we head to shore and waddle along the pathway. It’s a nice break to stretch our legs. However, every once in a while, one of these two-legged creatures will come too close to us and we have to scurry off or fly to a safer place.
Occasionally, a snobby mallard, a noisy Mexican whistling duck, a nosy Muscovy, or some other interloper will interrupt our idyllic surroundings. They can be so annoying sometimes. You also never know if they are biters and want to nip at you. Or are they just full of idle gossip and want to bore you with stories that you have no interest in hearing? Ho, hum! Usually, if we ignore them long enough, they don’t hang around for too long. We haven’t quite figured out the pelicans yet. They act pretty smug, swimming in straight lines, then filling their pouches with tasty morsels which they proudly display in front of us in a very condescending manner. They’re such showoffs when they dive straight down into the water and come up with a fish. I think it’s best if we just ignore them and let them go about their business. Every once in a while, we will get our ducks in a row and engage in some synchronized swimming, which involves some twisting and turning maneuvers and quacking sessions that would rival any choir. We ducks know how to turn life into a winged spectacle. Even when it rains, it’s just water off a duck’s back. Places on shore are instantly transported into duck-size water parks. It’s a waterfowl’s dream. We splash around in the puddles and thoroughly enjoy ourselves. Some of us have even mastered the art of the water shake, the ultimate feather-fluffing routine. Suddenly, a duckling attempts its first dive, belly flopping into the water. Our wise quacker gives an approving quack, thinking, “Well at least it’s not a clumsy human attempting to swim!”
Life on the Resaca is just ducky, with water-lily days and feather-styling contests. You have to be careful of the nutria, though. They can be very fast, mean, and extremely dangerous. One of our cousins had an unfortunate encounter with one with disastrous results. As the sun begins to dip low below the horizon, casting a warm glow over the Resaca, we cruise peacefully into the fading light, our quacks
echoing a harmonious tale of life in nature’s embrace. We head up onto shore to find a quiet spot where we can put our heads under our wings and enjoy a well-deserved rest. The next day comes, and then the whole routine repeats itself. Life on the Resaca is so much fun. Ducks teach us the simple joy of floating through life’s waters with ease. •
MPerspectives
The Lord’s Prayer and Pancho
by Chaplain Dennis Key
ost everyone, no matter your religion or lack thereof, knows the Lord’s Prayer or Our Father. But not everyone knows Pancho. Pancho is our 15-month-old Yorkshire Terrier. He brings a lot of joy and fun into our lives, but he has also helped me to better understand and live daily for the Lord Jesus. Jesus, in St. Matthew’s Gospel, taught His disciples to pray as follows: “Our Father, which art in Heaven, hallowed be Thy Name. Thy Kingdom come, Thy will be done in earth as it is in Heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For Thine is the Kingdom, and the power, and the glory forever. Amen.”
As the Lord’s Prayer says, “His will be done in earth.” I want to do God’s will in my life daily. Pancho shows me every day that He is anxious to do my will; He wants to make me happy. He tries to do what I desire for him. He constantly watches what I am doing and stays close by my side. We, too, need to keep our hearts and minds on what pleases God. Hebrews chapter 12 says to keep our eyes on Jesus, the author and developer of our faith. Pancho looks to my wife and me to provide his daily food. It makes us happy to feed him and see him eat it all. Our Father wants to provide for us and give us our daily needs. Philippians 4:19 says, “And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches
of His glory in Christ Jesus.” God is a good, good Father to us.
Pancho is quick to forgive. When I get upset with a mess he has made--or his barking too much--and yell at him, he lowers his head in repentance but is always ready to forgive me with a jump in my lap and a lick on my face. He holds no grudges. I, too, must forgive those who offend me.
When we leave Pancho alone, he is tempted to get into things he shouldn’t. As his owners, we try to remove things that will tempt him to get into trouble before we leave him alone in the house. In the same way, God, our Father, speaks to our spirits and leads us away from temptation if we pray and pay attention to His leading in our life. I Corinthians 10:13 says, “God is faithful. He will not allow temptation to be more than you can stand. When you are tempted, He will show you a way out so that you can endure.”
Pancho lives a good life in our home. I have learned a lot about me and God and the right way to live out the Lord’s Prayer by watching Pancho. •
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.
Mobile Park, McAllen
$21,900
Retama Village, Mission
Alamo
$268,900
WOW - Please check out this 2018 Palomino Columbus 5th Wheel. Features 1 bd/1 bath with spacious kitchen and living areas! It also has loads of storage space inside and out! Outdoor wetbar w/ fridge & cooktop! Curt Riester, TREC771832, MHSLSP00047858, (956) 455-4195 Retama Village, Mission
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
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
McAllen Mobile Park, McAllen
$75,000
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
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
Monte Cristo, Edinburg $437,000
Hidden Valley Ranch, Mission
$179,900
MUST SEE!! This charming 1 bedroom, 1-bathroom mobile home is located in a 55+ community, just minutes from the Monte Cristo’s 18 hole golf course. 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
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
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
Hidden Valley Ranch, Mission
$118,500
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
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
Retama Village, Mission
Restful Valley Ranch, Mission
$425,000
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 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
$16,500
$160,000
$61,900
$225,000
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 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
Grande Resort, Mercedes
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
$145,000
$57,000
Looking for a cozy home to make your own? Look no further than this cute one-bedroom mobile that provides all you need for your home away from home—located in Wintergreen Estates, an active 55+ community. Heather Escobedo, TREC686290, (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
Hidden Valley Ranch, Mission
Quiet Village ll, Donna
$76,000
$93,500
Looking for a well-maintained mobile? Located in the friendly 55+ community of Quiet Village II, this 1 bedroom, 1.5 bathroom home is a must-see! Heather Escobedo, TREC686290, (956) 271-3683
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
Own an RV and looking for a great place to park? Come check out this 42 wide by 72 long pull through RV lot, located in the 55+ community of Llano Grande Resort, where you own your lot! 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
Wagon City South, Mission
$45,500 $129,900
$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
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
McAllen
Retama Village, Mission
Retama Village, Mission
McAllen Mobile Park, McAllen
Llano
Alamo Country Club, Alamo
Llano Grande Resort, Mercedes
Alamo Country Club
Casa Del Valle,
Winter Green Estates, Mission
Llano Grande Resort, Mercedes
May
Please
EXCLUSIONS APPLY | EXPIRES 3/31/24
$10 OFF $50+ PURCHASE
EXCLUSIONS APPLY | EXPIRES 3/31/24
$5 OFF $25+ PURCHASE
EXCLUSIONS APPLY | EXPIRES 3/31/24
City of McAllen Seeking Volunteers for McAllen Holiday Parade
Special to Welcome Home Winter Texan
Every year, the City of McAllen welcomes Winter Texans to volunteer as balloon handlers and banner carriers for the upcoming 2024 McAllen Holiday Parade, Saturday, December 7, at the McAllen Veterans Memorial Stadium. The Parade runs from 4 p.m. until approximately 9 p.m. Winter Texans always have an amazing time volunteering for this event. Parade organizers would love to have even more participation this year.
If you are interested in volunteering, please call 956-681-3350 or email pardvolunteers@mcallen.net.
To learn more about the McAllen Holiday Parade, visit mcallenholidayparade. com.
DANCES ENTERTAINMENT & SHOWS
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.
Wednesday • Nov 13, 2024
Wednesday Breakfast 7:30 AM Bentsen
Grove Resort Palmview (956) 585-0703
November Winter Texan Day 11:00 AM
Gelman Stained Glass Museum San Juan (956) 601-0838 $15
Happy Hour w/The Juice! 3:00 PM Victoria Palms RV Resort Donna (956) 464-7801 PTH
Jam Session 1:00 PM Roadrunner RV Resort Alamo (763) 229-5318
Happy Hour w/Regan James 3:00 PM
Bit-O-Heaven RV and MH Resort Donna (701) 269-1045 PTH
Steven May 3:00 PM Snow to Sun RV Resort Weslaco (956) 968-0322
Radioactive Karaoke 6:00 PM Victoria Palms RV Resort Donna (956) 464-7801 Free
Find Your Next Outdoor Adventure
Special to Welcome Home Winter Texan
South Padre Island is known for surf and sand, but you don’t have to get your feet wet to enjoy the beauty of this coastal paradise. Tucked away on the Island’s northern end, South Padre Island Adventure Park offers a unique escape for nature lovers and adventure-seekers, with activities that include horseback riding along the shore—a true bucket-list experience.
With over 40 acres of land, Adventure Park is perfect for visitors looking to explore the outdoors. There’s something for everyone, from ziplining to visiting a petting barn filled with friendly animals and birds. However, the Park’s biggest attraction is its horseback riding sessions, which provide a breathtaking way to experience the Island’s untouched northern landscape.
Horseback riding sessions are available throughout the day, each offering a different experience. Early morning and sunset rides are ideal for those who want an extended session, as the cooler temperatures are better for riders and horses. These 90-minute rides lead guests along the beach and sand dunes, creating a serene setting to watch the sun rise or set over the Island. For visitors with tighter schedules, the family-friendly rides are a great option. These one-hour sessions, available in the morning and afternoon, provide a shorter--but equally memorable--journey.
For a truly magical experience, consider booking one of the Park’s moonlight rides, available only a few days each month, just before-and during--the full moon. You’ll witness the moon rising over the Gulf as you ride along the water’s edge. Whether you’re an experienced rider or a beginner, these guided rides cater to all skill levels and ages, making them a perfect choice for couples, families, and solo adventurers.
For younger visitors, the petting barn offers pony rides, introducing children to the joy of horseback riding in a safe, gentle setting. It’s an excellent option for families who want a fun, outdoor activity everyone can enjoy together.
Ready to add a little adventure to your South Padre Island stay? Plan your visit to South Padre Island Adventure Park, and cross off that bucket-list experience. For more information on outdoor activities and to book your session, visit sopadre.com. •
Penitas Pantrypalooza Jump Starts Giving Season Something Rotten! at McAllen Memorial High School
Special to Welcome Home Winter Texan
Enchanted Valley Ranch (EVR) is getting a jump start on Giving Season. Giving season is so important because it is a time to be generous and kind and to help those in need.
Tuesday, November 19, EVR will host a day-long outdoor music festival, Penitas Pantrypalooza, featuring various RGV entertainers who have donated their time to play at this event. The proceeds from this event will be donated to the Penitas Food Pantry, 406 South Main Street in Penitas.
The Penitas Food Pantry currently serves over 400 families monthly. They recently built a large facility, where they receive food donations from retail stores, grocery stores, food producers, and farmers. H.E.B., one of the largest grocery stores in Texas, also donates. The Penitas Food Pantry also accepts monetary donations. These donations allow them to purchase food--for pennies on the dollar in comparison to what the average person would pay.
Come join in the fun November 19 and help the Penitas Food Pantry! Should you have any questions, please contact Jen Heilmann at 262-751-4978 or by e-mail at penitaspantrypalooza@gmail.com. •
TSpecial to Welcome Home Winter Texan
his December, you cannot miss the outstanding experience of this bright, bold, and consistently funny production of Something Rotten! If you know anything about William Shakespeare and you enjoy literary jokes and huge dance numbers, this is the show for you!
Bring your family and enjoy a hilarious time with our Memorial Mustang students.
Memorial High School William Hetrick Theatre
101 E. Hackberry, McAllen
December 5 and 6 at 7 p.m.
Matinees December 7 and 8 at 2 p.m.
Tickets $10
For more information, contact Edgar Rodriguez Tiburcio by email at edgar.tiburcio@mcallenisd.net. •
Historic Kingsville Train Depot to Get Steamrolled During Ranch Hand Weekend
Special to Welcome Home Winter Texan
For the eleventh year in a row, the ever-popular Steamroller Prints Event will return to Ranch Hand Weekend festivities. You will find the event taking place in downtown Kingsville during the Ranch Hand Weekend Festival Saturday, November 23, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
The Festival celebrates Kingsville’s cultural heritage as part of the ranching industry. Texas A&M Kingsville Department of Art, Theater, and Communications puts on the event in collaboration with the City of Kingsville’s Public Works Department. Speedball Art was gracious enough to provide all of the ink necessary for the steamroller event. At the Steamroller Prints Event, TAMUK students and local and regional artists will design hand art pieces from carved wood blocks.
After carving the blocks, ink is applied over the surface and placed on a nice smooth pavement. Then, a large sheet of paper or cloth is placed over it. It is covered with blankets; a steamroller drives over it, causing the weight of the steamroller to provide the pressure needed to transfer the ink from the block to the paper or cloth. Steamroll printing is also known as relief printing.
TAMUK students will lay their art blocks down on Kleberg Avenue and steamroll print an image of Kingsville’s 1904 Train Depot Museum. Past meets present, when university students commemorate one of the community’s oldest buildings in a downtown, larger-than-life art display. The Museum was built in 1904 and is the spot where community membkiners gathered when the City of Kingsville was first established, July 4, 1904.
The King Ranch Museum and the Kingsville 1904 Train Depot Museum will be open to the public Saturday, November 23, allowing visitors to learn the history of Kingsville.
Ranch Hand Weekend is one of the most action-packed weekends in Kingsville! Friday night, guests can enjoy Kingsville’s Holiday Wine Walk and Tree Lighting Ceremony just outside the 1904 Train Depot Museum. There will also be choirs and an electric violinist to get guests in the holiday spirit. Saturday, guests can park at the Train Depot and catch a shuttle to the 33rd Annual King Ranch® Ranch Hand Breakfast or drive onto the legendary King Ranch for the festivities. This is the only day of the year the ranch is open to the public. The King Ranch Visitor Center will also be open the day of the breakfast.
Beyond the steamroller event, downtown also comes to life with the annual Texas Rides Car Show, selfies with Santa, two-step and line dancing competitions, and a Kids Corral by Kingsville Parks and Recreation, complete with archery for the kids. Turkeys are up for grabs for those who make a bullseye!
Get all the details and a schedule of events at RanchHandWeekend.com, and we’ll see you in Kingsville November 22-23. •
