What a week! We’re beyond excited to kick off the season, and we’ve been busy putting the finishing touches on our Activity Director Boot Camp. This isn’t just one event; it’s a whole series designed to connect, educate, and inspire RV park activity directors from across the Rio Grande Valley.
Many of our activity directors are new to the area, so we love showing them the hidden gems that make the Valley shine. This week’s itinerary includes a visit to the new Ecotourism Center in Los Fresnos, a little shopping on Lighthouse Square in Port Isabel, and an afternoon at the South Padre Island Birding Center--where the views are as breathtaking as the wildlife.
We’ll enjoy dinner at Louie’s Backyard, followed by live music from the alwaysfabulous Leslie Blasing. The next day, it’s back to business (and a little more fun!) with a workshop at Margaritaville, lunch, and entertainment from Curt James. To top it all off, we’ll set sail with Breakaway Cruises for a dolphin watch adventure.
This is just the beginning of our season, so stay tuned! And don’t forget to ask your activity director what’s coming up next.
Until next week….
We’re just connecting the dots
WINTER TEXAN
Service, Education, History, and Patriotism
Reddell Wingert
One spring day in 1929, a small group of women gathered for tea at Casa de Palmas Hotel in downtown McAllen. The purpose of the meeting: establishing a local chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution.
Ninety-six years later, the Rio Grande Chapter, National Society Daughters of the American Revolution (NSDAR or DAR) is going strong.
“We have our fingers in a lot of pies,” shares Paula Owen, Texas Society DAR state vice regent. That they do.
The list is long, from historic preservation projects restoring a local church to supporting the needs of veterans and troops and providing scholarships and grants…and the list goes on.
Members of the DAR are connected via ancestral contribution to the American Revolution: a solider, service provider, even a drummer. The nonprofit organization contributes to the community in a number of ways, focusing on service, education, history, and patriotism.
Placing American flags and memorial wreaths on veterans’ graves, providing troops with basic necessities, visiting veterans homes, archiving genealogy, preserving records, contributing books to libraries, and historic preservation projects--and that’s just a sampling of activities at the local level.
One of the most impactful contributions is ongoing support of the Veteran’s War Memorial of Texas in McAllen, a monument in honor of those who were a part of wars and conflicts throughout our nation’s history, including the American Revolution.
The idea for a significant memorial originated from retired Army Col. Frank Plummer, a veteran of three wars.
In the late 1980s, according to former McAllen Mayor Jim Darling--who was city attorney at the
Veterans Day Ceremony, Tuesday, November 11, at 10 a.m. at the Veteran’s War Memorial of Texas, 3129 Galveston Ave. in McAllen.
To learn more about the Daughters of the American Revolution, visit DAR.org.
Of note: Winter Texan DAR members can be associate members of this chapter.
For more information about the Veteran’s War Memorial of Texas, visit mcallen.net/ veterans.
time--Plummer approached the City with his vision. McAllen was on board, and land was set aside for the project. Its design went through various iterations before becoming an outdoor park with a 105-foot spire, walls engraved with historic information and details on each war, pathways recognizing branches of service, and sculptures created by local artist Douglas Clark.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 2
Col. Plummer stands with Rio Grande Chapter DAR officers in front of the Bernardo de Galvez monument. (Photo courtesy: Rio Grande Chapter DAR)
Story and photos by Eryn
Over the last nearly 40 years, through it all, Darling says Col. Plummer (who turns 100 in November), “led the way”…and inspired others.
Rio Grande Chapter DAR registrar Cheyanne Zink recalls Col. Plummer’s Memorial presentation to the Chapter in 2005. Recognizing its significance to history, veterans, and education, the Chapter wholeheartedly joined the effort.
Since then, Zink says, the Rio Grande Chapter DAR--with state and national support--has contributed numerous walls and statues in the DAR’s Plaza of Liberty, including Patrick Henry, George and Martha Washington, and Bernardo de Galvez, a Spanish patriot.
Col. Plummer, Darling says, had a keen focus on the Memorial serving as a tool to educate future generations on the nation’s history and veteran involvement.
“The information shared on the Memorial’s walls are written so a child can understand,” says Zink. “A lot of thought was put into it.”
Owen, a veteran herself, shares, “It’s important to us that our children know our history, our legacy. That’s what we do.” •
For more information on submitting your events and activities, please e-mail: calendar@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
Veterans Day 2025 Events Across the RGV
Special to Welcome Home Winter Texan
Cameron County Commissioner Precinct 4
Cameron County Commissioner Gus Ruiz will be hosting a Veterans Day Community Celebration
Saturday, November 8, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Precinct 4 office, 26623 White Ranch Rd. in La Feria.
All are welcome. Thank you to all veterans, past and present, for their service. The phone number at Precinct 4 is 956-427-8069.
Edinburg
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. Sign up at: info@welcomehomergv.com www.facebook.com @whrgv @wintertexan
The City of Edinburg extends an invitation to the community to participate in the much-anticipated annual Veterans Day Parade Saturday, November 8. This year’s parade begins at 9:30 a.m. and will showcase a remarkable assembly of patriotic floats beginning at Richard R. Flores Stadium,1800 S. Stadium Dr. in Edinburg. These creatively crafted floats will follow a designated route ending at Kuhn Street. The event is entirely free and open to the public, providing an opportunity for everyone to come and celebrate. Attendees are encouraged to join the Veterans Day Parade to celebrate the heroism and dedication of those who have served the country. The event promises to be a memorable tribute to veterans and a heartwarming experience for the entire community.
Elks Lodge 1889 Harlingen
Attention veterans! We are honored to invite you to a Veterans Day Dinner & Dance at Harlingen Elks Lodge 1889, 1426 S Commerce St, in Harlingen, November 11. Live music will be provided by I-69 from 5 - 7:30 p.m. Dinner will be served at 6 p.m. Spouses are welcome. We hope to see you there so we can celebrate you! Please call 956-294-4944 to RSVP by November 6. The phone number at Elks Lodge 1889 is 956-423-4290.
Hidalgo County Veterans District Treatment Court
Judge Orlando Esquivel, the presiding judge of the 430th Veterans Treatment Court, and Sergeant Major Clifford E. Lovejoy will serve as guest speakers for Veterans Day. Together with their team of mentors and participants, they are committed to making a positive impact in the lives of veterans who have selflessly dedicated themselves to serving our nation. The event will be held Tuesday, November 11, at 10 a.m. at the Alfredo Gonzalez Texas State Veterans Home, 301 E Yuma Ave. in McAllen.
McAllen
Veterans Day Ceremony, Tuesday, November 11, at 10 a.m. at the Veterans War Memorial of Texas, 3129 Galveston Ave. in McAllen.
Mission
The City of Mission is excited to invite you to come together for two special events:
• Veterans Day Parade – Saturday, November 8, at 10 a.m. in downtown Mission - Business 83 from Conway to Bryan
• Veterans Day Barbecue – Tuesday, November 11, from 11 a.m.–1 p.m. at the Mission Event Center, 200 N. Shary Rd. in Mission
Bring your family, friends, and neighbors to help us celebrate and thank the brave men and women who have served our country.
Rotary Club of Weslaco
Join us Tuesday, November 11, at 10 a.m. at Bobby Lackey Stadium, 784 N. Westgate Dr. in Weslaco, as we honor the brave men and women who have served our nation. This special event, hosted by the Rotary
Club of Weslaco in collaboration with Weslaco ISD, is a time for our community to come together, show gratitude, and pay tribute to all who have sacrificed for our freedom. Let’s stand united in appreciation for our veterans! •
A younger version of Martha Washington stands at the Memorial near her husband, George.
Patrick Henry is depicted delivering his “Give me liberty or give me death” speech in the DAR Plaza of Liberty.
A tribute to Spanish patriot Bernardo de Galvez includes a statue-in his image--and an account of his contributions.
Come Sail Away
Special to Welcome Home Winter Texan
Hey, Dancing Queens and Kings! Are you ready to get your groove on? Join us at Sharyland High School for our fall musical, Mamma Mia!
We are so proud of all the students who have dedicated themselves to performing for our community, reinforcing their performance skills, and building bonds with their fellow castmates. Our students have been working since the summer and are absolutely dying to disco with you all!
Come watch our performances November 5-8 and 19-21 at 7 p.m. and November 22 at 2 and 7 p.m. Come sail away while showing our kids some support! Adult tickets are $10, 65 years+ are $8, and students are $5. •
Point Isabel ISD Thanksgiving Food Drive
Special to Welcome Home Winter Texan
Help Point Isabel ISD provide Thanksgiving meals for their families in need! The district is collecting the following items until November 19:
Please drop food donations off at any of the following campuses:
• Derry Elementary, 1702 2nd St., Port Isabel
• Garriga Elementary, 200 W Adams St., Port Isabel
• Port Isabel Junior High School, 17001 TX-100, Port Isabel
• Port Isabel Early College High School, 18001 TX-100, Port Isabel
• PIISD Central Office, 101 Port Rd., Port Isabel
For more information, call 956-943-0091. Help make a difference for Valley families this Thanksgiving! •
Spotted in the RGV Veterans
War Memorial of Texas
by Eryn Reddell Wingert McAllen, TX
Build Community (and Muscles) on the Island
Get ready to lace up, get outside, and enjoy the beautiful fall weather on SPI. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or a lover of scenic walks, the South Padre Island Half Marathon Weekend is for you. Get the Thanksgiving month festivities started with the Island’s 1-mile “Turkey Trot” fun run/walk, happening November 8 at 7 a.m. The trot will begin at the entrance of Isla Blanca Park. Participants of all ages and paces will take off on the flat, breezy course with stunning Gulf views. The weekend of fun in the coastal sun doesn’t end there; stick around for a half-marathon/relay that takes place November 9 at 6:45 a.m. Live music, beachside festivities, and a medal as bright as the beauty of the Island itself await you when you cross the finish line. If you’re looking for a memorable way to stay active and embrace the Island life, the halfmarathon weekend on the Island is it!
The races were designed for locals and visitors to exercise and practice a healthy lifestyle while simultaneously enjoying the natural wonders of the Island. Owners of the long-standing and well-loved half-marathon event, Rob and Vanessa Mcbee, said they want the South Padre Island Half Marathon to be a time to share the beauty and energy of the Island with runners and walkers from all over.
“Our goal was to combine the thrill of endurance racing with the laidback coastal atmosphere that makes South Padre special. We wanted to build an event that celebrates community, health, and adventure--a race where every mile offers ‘island vibes,’” said Rob. “Ultimately, it’s about inspiring people to run, connect, and make lasting memories in one of Texas’s most scenic and beautiful destinations.”
The Island is the premier destination for singles, couples, families, and friends to gather, build friendships, and exercise with the most scenic
Yep, it’s a thing! Y’all are home just in time. Our end-of-year distribution is quickly approaching. Earlier this year, we set a goal to FILL our Donation Chest every week…and it’s been full and overflowing ever since! We call it FULL Chest Friday.
The center point of the Veterans War Memorial of Texas is a 105-foot black granite spire. The American Spire of Honor pays homage to the military men and women who died serving our country during war and conflicts. The five-sided structure also serves as a permanent reminder of the price of freedom and an educational tool for future generations. For more information, visit mcallen.net/veterans .
For those we haven’t met yet, we are The Lamb’s Loom, a local prayer-shawl ministry, currently serving over 20 mission groups all over the world. Our Donation Chest receives hats, blankets, shawls, and so many other beautiful handmade items that we then sort and send out to our mission friends. Because we serve so many different groups, every item that comes in will definitely find just the right person to love on. We have seen, over the years, that the destinations change and the needs vary over time, but the love and comfort going out into our world is the same. These handmade gifts we gather go to many who are in need--physically, spiritually, and emotionally. The donated items encourage and give a hug to someone who feels alone in life’s journey.
We are always encouraged by the generosity of all of our Winter Texas friends who add to the Donation Chest every year! It is amazing to watch as you come into town and bring things in that you have worked on during the summer. You are
the best, Thank you!
So, the coffee is on, and the Sit-n-Knit Room is ready for everyone as you make your way south to our Happy Place. If you haven’t come by yet, we do hope you will join us this season and #stitchitforward with us. We are open Wednesday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. We’re 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
~
Hello Travel Friends Try These Rut-Breakers
Dear Travel Friends,
As all of our Winter Texans start heading back down here to South Texas, I’m sure you’re excited about visiting restaurants you love, seeing your winter friends, and going to some of your favorite local attractions. There’s so much to do here in the Rio Grande Valley. Sometimes I get in a rut and find myself visiting the same places or not realizing the new things that pop up. I’ve come up with a few local spots that you may not have tried before. First up is Mozna Chocolate Factory in Hidalgo. This artisanal bean-to-bar factory has a tour you can attend that allows you to see their chocolate-making process from start to finish, and can even make your own bar! Their chocolate is high-quality dark chocolate, and the cacao beans they use come from Colombia, Mexico, Tanzania, and other distant lands. Learn about why dark chocolate is considered healthy for you and go with a group to experience the fun together. This is a great activity if you ever have grandkids visiting, as well. I took my kids this summer, and they loved getting to invent their own unique chocolate bar, label and all. Another fun stop is the Mercado District in McAllen. This is a fun, unique shopping and dining experience that is great--no matter the weather. This shopping experience combines the fun of a flea market with the charm of individual boutiques and world-class food. The shops within the Mercado have individual doors like you’re shopping in tiny little stores. Everything from plants, comics, records, arts and crafts, clothing and
Sarah Denzer, Tour Manager
find a phenomenal food court offering all types of cuisine, like sushi, tacos, pizza, burgers, and sweet treats galore. Just thinking about the burger at Jolene’s is making me think I should run and grab one. We took our summer supper club there in August, and everyone raved about the fun environment and unique options in shopping and dining. Lastly, let’s introduce you to GREEN Wildlife Sanctuary in San Benito. Their mission is to “preserve and protect wildlife and educate how to contribute to conservation efforts.” They offer fun little tours with face-to-face animal time. You can get to know animals like tortoises and parrots and even give them treats. GREEN also offers volunteer opportunities for those interested in helping with animal conservation in all types of ways. Their newest adventure is glamping! Spend a night or two in an RV right next to all the cute animals. Get to know them and blow them a kiss goodnight before you drift off to dreamland. Go check them out and let them know Welcome Home RGV sent you. Rut-breaking experiences are always popping up in the Valley. Let me know what new things you’ve found so I can check them out, too. Keep traveling and adventuring right here in the RGV. • ~Sarah
Overnight Bus Trips with VIP
Itineraries, great food and friendly guides! Tour around a new city for a few days to see the highlights and then hop on a cruise and relax with new friends!
Keep an eye on our website over the summer to book your fun for next season before things sell out!
Hop on a bus and enjoy a fun day trip to see all that the RGV has to offer with out having to worry about driving, parking or planning!
McAllen Wind Ensemble Presents Duty, Honor, Country A Musical Tribute to America’s Heroes
Special to Welcome Home Winter Texan
The McAllen Wind Ensemble proudly opens its 2025–2026 concert season with Duty, Honor, Country, a powerful evening dedicated to the courage, sacrifice, and service of the men and women who defend our freedom. The concert will take place Tuesday, November 11, at 7:30 p.m. at the McAllen Performing Arts Center.
This performance goes beyond the music; it’s a heartfelt tribute to America’s heroes. Audiences will be inspired by patriotic favorites, stirring military marches, and beloved American classics that honor every generation of those who have served. From the first note to the final crescendo, Duty, Honor, Country will remind us all what it means to stand united in pride and gratitude.
“Performing this concert on Veterans Day makes it especially meaningful,” said Roger Olivarez, music director of the McAllen Wind Ensemble. “We want to create a space where our community can come together to reflect, remember, and celebrate those who have given so much.”
Admission to Duty, Honor,
Country is free, and tickets can be reserved at mcallenwindensemble. org. Reserving tickets in advance ensures a smooth experience at the door. Patrons who prefer printed tickets may visit the Box Office for assistance.
Introducing the McAllen Wind Ensemble Patron Program
New this season, the McAllen Wind Ensemble invites supporters to join its Patron Program—an opportunity to show your support and enjoy exclusive perks like reserved seating, expedited entrance, and access to the Patron Lounge. Your $50 donation ($100 per couple) directly supports community outreach, new music, and the future of live performance in the Rio Grande Valley. Learn more or become a patron at mcallenwindensemble.org/ become-a-patron
About the McAllen Wind Ensemble
Founded in 1974, the McAllen Wind Ensemble has been a cornerstone of musical excellence in the Rio Grande Valley for over
50 years. Under the direction of Music Director Roger Olivarez, the ensemble continues to inspire audiences with themed performances that showcase the richness of wind band music. The McAllen Performing and Cultural Arts Foundation proudly supports the ensemble’s 51st season, promoting the performing arts and music education across South Texas. •
Mayuko Ono Gray Explores Memory and Time in New IMAS Exhibition
Special to Welcome Home Winter Texan
The International Museum of Art & Science
Registration Open for Annual Texas Master Naturalist Training
Special to Welcome Home Winter Texan
Ono Gray
and Time
New
(IMAS) is pleased to announce the exhibition _this too, shall pass, featuring the work of Japanese American artist Mayuko Ono. The exhibition will be on view through February 28, 2026, inviting visitors to explore the delicate intersection of words, images, and human experience.
The International Museum of Art & Science (IMAS) is pleased to announce the exhibition 諸行無常_this too, shall pass, featuring the work of Japanese American artist Mayuko Ono. The exhibition will be on view through February 28, 2026, inviting visitors to explore the delicate intersection of words, images, and human experience.
Ono’s intricate graphite drawings blend influences from traditional Japanese calligraphy with Western drawing techniques, creating compositions that are both visually striking and deeply personal. Her work captures everyday scenes paired with flowing Japanese proverbs, reflecting on themes such as memory, aging, and the unseen forces that shape our lives. The exhibition offers a contemplative space where art and language intertwine, telling stories that resonate on both intimate and universal levels.
Ono’s intricate graphite drawings blend influences from traditional Japanese calligraphy with Western drawing techniques, creating compositions that are both visually striking and deeply personal. Her work captures everyday scenes paired with flowing Japanese proverbs, reflecting on themes such as memory, aging, and the unseen forces that shape our lives. The exhibition offers a contemplative space where art and language intertwine, telling stories that resonate on both intimate and universal levels.
“My work unfolds as a dialogue between the tangible and the intangible, the temporal and the timeless, and the deeply personal and the universally shared,” said Ono. “Reflecting a life shaped by both Japanese and American cultures, my graphite drawings intertwine the influences of traditional Japanese calligraphy with the techniques and aesthetics of Western drawing.”
“My work unfolds as a dialogue between the tangible and the intangible, the temporal and the timeless, and the deeply personal and the universally shared,” said Ono. “Reflecting a life shaped by both Japanese and American cultures, my graphite drawings intertwine the influences of traditional Japanese calligraphy with the techniques and aesthetics of Western drawing.”
If you don’t
Texas Master Naturalist program training registration for the 2026 new class session is open through December 15. Weekly classes are scheduled January 8 through March 26, 2026. Registration is open to Winter Texans and residents of Cameron, Hidalgo, and Starr counties--over the age of 18--to join the South Texas Border Chapter that meets in Pharr.
Texas Master Naturalist is a unique educational volunteer program sponsored by Texas Parks and Wildlife Department and Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service and Texas Sea Grant Program.
and U.S. Department of Agriculture. Daytimeand two evening-field trips are arranged for trainees, providing special access and learning opportunities.
Hundreds of opportunities are available to volunteers, from studying wildlife to developing public native gardens, learning about native plants and habitat, citizen science projects, bird migration, and shore birds to Gulf and beach inhabitants and trends.
by
it, you won’t get it by listening about it either (Bubbles). 2021, Graphite on paper.
諸行無常_this too, shall pass promises to be a moving and thought-provoking experience, encouraging visitors to reflect on the passage of time and the enduring power of visual storytelling.
Mayuko Ono Gray Explores Memory and Time in New IMAS Exhibition Special to Welcome Home Winter Texan
either
About the International Museum of Art & Science (IMAS)
For more information about the exhibition or IMAS membership, please visit theimasonline.org or call 956-681-2800.
The International Museum of Art & Science (IMAS) is pleased to announce the exhibition
About the International Museum of Art & Science (IMAS)
諸行無常_this too, shall pass featuring the work of Japanese American artist Mayuko Ono. The exhibition will be on view through February 28, 2026, inviting visitors to explore the delicate intersection of words, images, and human experience.
_this too, shall pass promises to be a moving and thoughtprovoking experience, encouraging visitors to reflect on the passage of time and the enduring power of visual storytelling.
Ono’s intricate graphite drawings blend influences from traditional Japanese calligraphy with Western drawing techniques, creating compositions that are both visually striking and deeply personal. Her work captures everyday scenes paired with flowing Japanese proverbs, reflecting on themes such as memory, aging, and the unseen forces that shape our lives. The exhibition offers a contemplative space where art and language intertwine, telling stories that resonate on both intimate and universal levels.
For more information about the exhibition or IMAS membership, please visit theimasonline.org or call 956-681-2800.
Located in the Rio Grande Valley, the International Museum of Art & Science (IMAS) inspires visitors of all ages to explore the world of art and science. Through its diverse exhibitions, collections, and educational programs, IMAS empowers learners to pursue their passions and discover new interests. Accredited by the American Alliance of Museums and a Smithsonian Affiliate, IMAS is located at 1900 W. Nolana Avenue in McAllen. The museum is open Wednesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 1 to 5p.m. •
Located in the Rio Grande Valley, the International Museum of Art & Science (IMAS) inspires visitors of all ages to explore the world of art and science. Through its diverse exhibitions, collections, and educational programs, IMAS empowers learners to pursue their passions and discover new interests. Accredited by the American Alliance of Museums and a Smithsonian Affiliate, IMAS is located at 1900 W. Nolana Avenue in McAllen. The museum is open Wednesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 1 to 5p.m.
Perspectives Travel Trailer Troubles
“My work unfolds as a dialogue between the tangible and the intangible, the temporal the timeless, and the deeply personal and the universally shared,” said Ono. “Reflecting a shaped by both Japanese and American cultures, my graphite drawings intertwine the influences of traditional Japanese calligraphy with the techniques and aesthetics of Western drawing.”
by Dennis Key
W“Texas Master Naturalists are volunteers with diverse interests. They receive indepth training about the wildlife and natural resources of the Rio Grande Valley’s unique ecosystem,” said Texas Parks and Wildlife Department park superintendent and chapter advisor Javier de Leon. “Volunteers work with community partners in approved activities and help educate others about the special land in which we live and how to help sustain it.”
Students attend a three-hour evening class held once a week at the Edinburg Scenic Wetlands and World Birding Center. Classes are taught by local university professors and other field experts, including those from the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department; National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration;
Class size is limited. The cost is $150 and includes the textbook, fees, a t-shirt and name tag, and a one-year membership. Scholarships of $100 are available. The completed form is due December 15.
To apply for the class or request a scholarship, follow the instructions in the pdf icons on the new class web page at stbctmn.org/the-nextclass. If you have questions, please contact the new class director, Jim Gerry, at jimgerry@ gmail.com or 630-464-4622.
Check out the chapter website at stbctmn. org/. Get a head start learning about local nature through articles at stbctmn.org/blog and attend monthly chapter meetings. The South Texas Border Chapter meets at 6:30 p.m. the third Monday of each month, except December, and has a guest speaker. Meetings are at St. George Orthodox Church Hall, 704 W. Sam Houston in Pharr. The meetings are free and open to the public.
諸行無常_this too, shall pass promises to be a moving and thought-provoking experience, encouraging visitors to reflect on the passage of time and the enduring power of visual storytelling.
For more information about the exhibition or IMAS membership, please visit theimasonline.org or call 956-681-2800.
About the International Museum of Art & Science (IMAS)
e traveled to the Rio Grande Valley in our travel trailer and lived in it during our first winter season here. We now own a park model and keep our travel trailer in storage at Winter Ranch RV Resort, where we live and minister. When the season is over, we get what my wife calls “The Hitching Itch,” the desire to hitch up the travel trailer and go somewhere. We love traveling to state parks and COE campgrounds. This year was no different. We headed to a good camping site with a lake.
Located in the Rio Grande Valley, the International Museum of Art & Science (IMAS) inspires visitors of all ages to explore the world of art and science. Through its diverse exhibitions, collections, and educational programs, IMAS empowers learners to pursue their passions and discover new interests. Accredited by the American Alliance of Museums and a Smithsonian Affiliate, IMAS is located at 1900 W. Nolana Avenue in McAllen. The museum is open Wednesday through Saturday from 10 a.m.
In your travels, as with any RV, there are going to be needed repairs along the way. This past summer’s travels were no exception for us. Troubles started right away. On our first night’s stop, we noticed the toilet was leaking water from a cracked fill valve. We prayed to God that He would help us so our summer travels wouldn’t be ruined. Thank God for Amazon, YouTube, and a campground with restrooms; we were able to repair it ourselves! Three days later, it was all repaired and ready to go.
Well…not exactly! The winds off the lake where we were staying plus the aging process had done a number on our awning, and now it was torn and needing replacement. We prayed again as it says in Matthew 7:7-8, “Ask and it will be given you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and the one who knocks, the door will be opened.” We found
a mobile RV repairman close to the park and got the awning fixed by the end of the stay there. Long story short, everywhere we traveled, there was another repair to be done on the RV--screen door, air conditioner, propane regulator, etc. Life is like that sometimes. Trouble comes when we least expect it. Plans have to change, interruptions occur, and illness comes. In this life, we encounter troubles. According to the Bible in John 16:33, Jesus says, “In Me you may have peace. In this world, you will have trouble. But
Dennis Key serves at Winter Ranch RV Resort in Alamo. He is with Christian Resort Ministries, which provides non-denominational worship services in RV resorts throughout the RGV. You may contact Dennis at offdkey@yahoo.com. You may also contact Christian Resort Ministries at crmintl.org regarding opportunities to serve in your community.
take heart! have overcome the world.” This verse helped us overcome each obstacle and repair our travel trailer troubles. As we put our trust in Jesus by praying and seeking His peace about each repair, everything worked out well. We had peace and relaxation and a fun time this summer instead of worried frustration and anger with all the breakdowns. And now we have a like-new travel trailer to enjoy, Praise God! Seek God’s way of solving troubles, and you’ll be further down the road than those who don’t! •
Gray, Mayuko Ono. _ If you don’t get it by looking at it, you won’t get it by listening about it
(Bubbles). 2021, Graphite on paper.
Chaplain
Cutline for IMAS story Gray, Mayuko Ono.
get it
looking at
Mayuko
Explores Memory
in
IMAS Exhibition Special to Welcome Home Winter Texan
South Texas Border Chapter Texas Master Naturalist members (from left) John McKee, Cynthia McKee, Jenna Rektorik, and Irma Kirpes set up an outreach table during
& HOMEMADE
Event Calendar
DANCES ENTERTAINMENT & SHOWS
Calendar of Events
Wednesday • Nov. 5, 2025
Y-Cook Breakfast 7:30 AM Bentsen Grove
Resort Palmview (956) 585-7011
Dreamer River Tour 1:00 PM Riverside Club
Mission (956) 581-1033 $13+
Happy Hour w/Southern Harmony 3:00 PM
Bentsen Grove Resort Palmview (956) 585-7011 PTH
Karaoke w/Andrew 5:00 PM Llano Grande
Resort Mercedes (956) 565-2638 PTH
Gospel Sing 6:00 PM Southern Comfort RV
Resort Weslaco (956) 968-3140
Mamma Mia! 7:00 PM Sharyland High School
Mission (956) 580-5300
Dance w/Steven May & The Southern Knights 7:00 PM Tip O Texas RV Resort Pharr (956) 7876461 $8
Thursday • Nov. 6, 2025
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.
Palmas Community Center McAllen (956) 6813320
Y-Cook Lunch 11:30 AM Bentsen Grove Resort
Palmview (956) 585-7011
Dreamer River Tour 1:00 PM Riverside Club
Mission (956) 581-1033 $13+
Happy Hour w/Regan James 5:00 PM Llano
Grande Resort Mercedes (956) 565-2638 PTH
Mamma Mia! 7:00 PM Sharyland High School
Mission (956) 580-5300
Friday • Nov. 7, 2025
Dreamer River Tour 1:00 PM Riverside Club
Mission (956) 581-1033 $13+
Happy Hour w/Bob Buttermore 3:00 PM Snow to Sun RV Resort Weslaco (956) 968-0322 PTH
Riverside Club Fish Fry 4:00 PM Riverside Club
Mission (956) 581-1033 14.99+
Dance w/Diego & Edith 6:00 PM Bentsen
Grove Resort Palmview (956) 585-7011 $10
Karaoke 6:30 PM Tip O Texas RV Resort Pharr (956) 787-9959
Dance w/The Agency 7:00 PM Bit-O-Heaven RV and MH Resort Donna (603) 396-2786 $12
Dance w/Texas Wheels 7:00 PM Fun N Sun RV Resort San Benito (956) 399-5800 $8/$12 Mamma Mia! 7:00 PM Sharyland High School Mission (956) 580-5300
Dance w/Southern Vibes 7:00PM Ranchero Village Weslaco (956) 968-6223 $10
Dance w/Steven May & The Southern Knights 7:00 PM Texas Trails RV Resort Pharr (956) 7876538 $8
Dance w/Ron Moshier 7:00 PM Victoria Palms RV Resort Donna (956) 249-2266
Saturday • Nov. 8, 2025
Eldorado Acres Breakfast 7:30 AM Eldorado Acres Palmview (956) 581-6718 Varies Patio Sale 8:00 AM Bit-O-Heaven RV and MH Resort Donna (603)
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JAM SESSIONS SALES MEALS
Continued
Calendar of Events
Patio Sale 8:00 AM Alamo Rec Veh Park Alamo (956) 787-8221
