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WINTER TEXAN

Volume 11 • Issue 9 December 31, 2025

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We Asked, You Answered:

Ways to Stay Active in South Texas

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by Eryn Reddell Wingert

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There’s an old saying that if you’re bored, it’s your own darn fault, and this time of year, that couldn’t be truer. Every season I’m amazed (and slightly exhausted--just watching) at the incredible number of activities happening in RV parks across the Valley. From morning coffee socials and card games to afternoon crafts, pickleball, dances, and evening entertainment, the calendars are packed. Truly packed. And if that somehow isn’t enough, there’s a whole world of fun waiting outside the park gates. Day trips, festivals, tours, shows, shopping, live music…you name it. You could honestly run from the moment you wake up until the moment your eyes finally close and still feel like you missed something. “Never a dull moment” might be the understatement of the season. Meanwhile, back at the office, we’re knee-deep in budgets, spreadsheets, deadlines, and planning the next big thing. I’ll admit, there are days when I catch myself dreaming of trading in Excel formulas for mahjong tiles, line dancing, and water aerobics. (One day… one day.) The silver lining is that we’re lucky enough to join many of our Winter Texan friends on tours and trips throughout the season. And, let me tell you; you’ve taught us how to have a good time. Your energy, curiosity, and joy for living are contagious, and we wouldn’t have it any other way. So, if you’re feeling bored… well, you know the saying.

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ancing, walking, bicycling, pickleball, golf, and happy hour with friends lead the list of responses when Welcome Home Winter Texan posed the question: What is your favorite way to stay active in the Rio Grande Valley? Two-hundred thirty-eight respondents cast their votes. Swimming, 8-ball pool, shuffleboard, yoga/pilates, gym/weights, water volleyball, and corn hole rounded out the list of answers. In addition to this long list, Cherie Tromborn shared via Facebook that, while in South Texas, she Jazzercises everyday with friends back in Wisconsin. “I can livestream it from my home studio in Hartland, WI. It is so much fun and I still see my friends from WI.”

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December 31, 2025 • Welcome Home WINTER TEXAN

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 If dancing is your activity of choice, check out the events page at welcomehomergv.com for a full list of dances scheduled Valleywide. As for walking, local cities have embraced incorporating hike-and-bike trails as options for residents. Hike through history along Brownsville’s Historic Battlefield Trail, which includes Resaca de la Palma Battlefield and Palo Alto Battlefield National Historic Site as the trailhead. (For trail information, go to visitbtx.com/hikesbikesandtrails. In McAllen, hike up and down the paved 2nd Street and Bicentennial Boulevard trails, or surround yourself in nature as you stroll around the lakes at Camp McAllen and Firemen’s Park. (Visit: exploremcallen.com/things-to-do/parksoutdoors/hiking-biking-trails for a complete list of trails in McAllen.) If pickleball piques your interest, check out the latest addition to the Rio Grande Valley landscape: the RGV Padel & Pickleball Club in Mission. Located at 2513 Victoria Drive, the Club opened this fall and is the largest pickle and padel club in the Rio Grande Valley, according to the City of Mission, and boasts seven padel and six pickleball “world-class courts,” along with a pro shop and lounge space. Welcome Home Winter Texan also asked, “What was your favorite thing to do this Winter Texan season?” Once again, dancing topped the list. But for one respondent, the answer was,“Sleep”! For a complete list of activities and events, visit welcomehomergv.com. •

219 W Nolana McAllen, TX 78504 956.687.5115 www.welcomehomergv.com

Publisher Kristi Collier kristi@welcomehomergv.com

Editor Chris Ardis news@welcomehomergv.com

Content Creator/Photographer Eryn Reddell Wingert eryn@welcomehomergv.com

Graphic Design AIM Media Texas, LLC

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

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

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. Sign up at: info@welcomehomergv.com

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© Copyright 2025 Welcome Home, Rio Grande Valley, LLC. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any electronic means without written permission from Welcome Home, Rio Grande Valley, LLC.

Welcome Home WINTER TEXAN • December 31, 2025

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December 31, 2025 • Welcome Home WINTER TEXAN

Perspectives How to Defeat the Grief Monster by Paula Key

he first time I met the “Grief Monster” was when I was 23 years old and got the phone call that my 63-year-old dad had died of a heart attack. My husband, Dennis, and I were on our first mission trip to Mexico and had left our two small children with my parents. It was devastating to me and so unexpected, since mom and dad had always been very healthy and strong. This was the first death of a person really close to me, and I was crushed. It took months for the Lord to heal my broken heart. Psalm 147:3 The next time was when my mom passed away at the age of 96 because her heart just gave out. I felt the Lord had blessed me by giving her good health and by letting me enjoy her company for so many years. (Her mother lived to be 100!) So, when mom passed, I knew it was her time and had real peace about it. Time went on, and our 49-year-old daughter was in a head-on collision and died on site. She knew the Lord Jesus but had some hard times, and so I knew where she was, but it was still such a shock. How could this have happened to our daughter? The Lord, in His loving and merciful way, would speak to my heart at night when it was quiet and tell me things like, “She went to sleep at the wheel and woke up in Heaven.” Or He’d say, “She passed from hurts to healing, sadness to joy, loneliness to eternal fellowship, broken love to perfect love, torment to peace,” etc. Revelation 21:4 He gave me such peace. How could I hold on to grief knowing she was so much happier? So, I CHOSE peace, and I CHOSE to believe the Lord knew what was best for her. When the Grief Monster would come, I would thank God that He was restoring everything

she’d lost. However, when we drove into her town for the first time after her passing, this overwhelming fear, sorrow, and grief started to swallow me up. I said, “Oh Jesus, I don’t want to go there; I can’t do this!” And He said, “You don’t have to go there alone; I’ll go with you.” And instantly, all fear and torment left, and total peace came. I praised God again for His All-Powerful Presence that sends the enemy fleeing! If any of you are feeling like you’re going to be swallowed up by the Grief Monster, just call out to Jesus, and He’ll be there to comfort you and restore your peace. 2 Corinthians 1:3-4 When the horrific flooding happened this summer in Central Texas along the Guadalupe River, we were called upon to go to the Kerrville-Hunt-Ingram area as Billy Graham chaplains to bring help and comfort to those who lost loved ones, homes, cars…whatever. I asked the Lord as we traveled that six-hour drive what in the world I could say to those hurting ones and, particularly, those who had lost Paula Key is the wife of Chaplain children at the summer camps along the river. He showed me that Dennis Key, who serves at Winter wherever our loved ones pass away, it is Holy Ground. Sacred work Ranch RV Resort in Alamo. They are has been done there. It is where they ascended to Heaven. This is with Christian Resort Ministries, which where spirit left flesh. This is where Heaven met earth. It is a Place of provides nondenominational worship Reverence because this was the Place of their Ascension. services in RV resorts throughout That comforted me so very much, that when we drive by the place the RGV. You may contact them at where our daughter died, I now see it as a beautiful place instead offdkey@yahoo.com. You may also of a grieving place. And as I worship the Lord down here on earth, I contact Christian Resort Ministries at can almost see my daughter worshiping God with me from On High. crmintl.org regarding opportunities to I pray this comforts you as much as it comforts me. • serve in your community.

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December 31, 2025 • Welcome Home WINTER TEXAN

Volunteer With the Island’s Furry Friends

Special to Welcome Home Winter Texan

he new year brings fresh goals and new habits, so make your resolutions truly impactful this year. The Island invites you to kick things off with something meaningful that fills your cup and supports the community. Founded in 2010, Friends of Animal Rescue was established on the principle that every animal deserves a loving home. The organization is a state-licensed quarantine facility and a no-kill shelter for the City of South Padre Island. Friends of Animal Rescue believes in community involvement, educational programs, and being a resource to all animals in need. To bring the community and the animals of the organization together, the business offers volunteer opportunities, allowing locals and visitors to take a dog or a cat for the day--to go for walks on the Island, to socialize, or just to be a part of your day out on the Island. Here are a few fun, pet-friendly adventures you can share with a dog or cat when you volunteer to whisk them away for a day of joy and fresh air on the Island: Whether you’re kicking off your morning with a caffeine buzz or winding down at your favorite Island dinner spot, various restaurants and cafes--like Karma Coffee & Books, Grapevine Cafe, Cafe on the Beach at

Palms Resort, Longboard Bar & Grill, Jakes Restaurant & Bar, and Clayton’s Beach Bar and Grill--allow pets to accompany you while you dine on their outdoor patios. A beach day with your four-legged friend is a must, but on the Island, the fun doesn’t stop at the shoreline. Wanting to venture out on a dolphin watch tour with Captain Murphy’s Isla Tours? Bring your furry companion along; they’ll love the bay views and the wind in their fur. Paddle out on those beautiful blue waters--Island waters--with Eh Brah SUP tour and rental company, where pets are welcome to hop onboard for the ride. When you’re ready to explore on land, wander along the beautiful, vibrant Laguna Madre and the Sea Turtle Art Trails of the Island together. So, dog lovers, make your beachside walks even more memorable with a canine companion by your side. And cat lovers, come pick up a cuddly companion for the day to lounge with. Who knows? They might turn into a friend for life! For more information on volunteering or adopting a sweet, furry friend, stop by Friends of Animal Rescue at 4908 Padre Blvd., or check out visitsouthpadreisland. com. •

Don’t Miss First Antique, Flea Market of 2026 in Port Isabel Special to Welcome Home Winter Texan

he Port Isabel Antique & Flea Market is a monthly (excluding December) pop-up experience featuring a wide variety of local custom creations--upcycled, recycled, and repurposed! It is held the first Sunday of each month at Beaulah Lee Park, Highway 100 at 213 N. Yturria St. in Port Isabel, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Don’t miss the first one in 2026—Sunday, January 4. There are dozens of dealers and thousands of deals! Admission and parking are free, and it’s always open to the public. You’ll find collectibles, plants, jewelry, antiques, glassware, tools, and other estate items. To join the waiting list for vendor space, call 956-433-1015. See you in Port Isabel! •

Welcome Home WINTER TEXAN • December 31, 2025

South Padre Island Lighted Boat Parade

Oh, what fun it is to take part in this annual tradition! Welcome Home RGV hosted approximately 100 people aboard two Breakaway Cruises illuminated parade entries. This annual event sparks the most joyful kick-off to the holiday season.

December 31, 2025 • Welcome Home WINTER TEXAN

Things I Have Learned

A somewhat random and reckless look at life from a fairly old guy by Bill Ward

The Irritating Winged Warrior Today’s Wisdom: The only disability in life is a bad attitude. ~Scott Hamilton

e have a couple of bird feeders just outside the window of our family room. I enjoy watching the birds drop by for a morsel or two. They always seem so happy…except for once in a while when one gets territorial and refuses to share. The hummingbirds are the worst at that. Even then, though, I enjoy watching the drama, and no one ever gets hurt--that I can see. On my arrival to our home in Texas this year, I was surprised to find a new bird at our window. He was a pretty warbler, hanging on the window screen and seemingly greeting me on my arrival. (Yeah, I know; birds don’t really do that. But it was a nice illusion.) Then I figured out what he was up to. For the next eight days, I endured this stupid bird flying in every few minutes and fighting with his reflection in the window. He would beat on the glass with his wings and peck at the reflection. Then he departed to a nearby bush, only to return in a couple minutes and continue the attack. Neither my birds in Minnesota nor my warbler in Texas knew I was on the other side of the glass. They had no intention

of interacting with me. They were just doing their own thing. However, both had an impact on me. The northern birds were calming, interesting, amusing and positive. The warbler, on the other hand, was irritating. He had a dark vibe to him that wore on me. I soon found myself trying to scare him away. It didn’t work. I ended up just ignoring him. One of the things I have learned is that people are sometimes the same way. Some have a positive effect on us. We enjoy their presence. They make our time on earth better. Others, like my warbler, have a negative impact. We get irritated, and then, if we can’t avoid them, we just ignore them for our own peace of mind. My warbler had an easily identifiable problem. Unforgiveness. He could not let go of the fact that another bird—himself--had invaded his territory. It destroyed his peace, and with all the beating on the window, it may yet destroy him, too. I sense my warbler is not too unlike us humans. In the unlikely event that I ever come back as a bird, I want to be a chickadee. They are always happy. Or maybe not. They are also always skittish, too, ‘cause hawks eat them. I doubt there is any particular message in that. I’m just sayin’. •

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Welcome Home WINTER TEXAN • December 31, 2025

Lambs Loom

Happy New Year ~ Happy Yarn Tasting 2026 Special to Welcome Home Winter Texan Come celebrate with us at The Lamb’s Loom as we kick off another great year of stitching ‘n serving! This year marks our 12th Annual Yarn Tasting. If you have never been, you should come join in on all the fiber fun Friday and Saturday, January 9-10. Every year, we kick off the party with the announcement of the total items received in our Donation Chest throughout the previous year. Thanks to everyone--and the additions to the Donation Chest during our Full Chest Fridays this year--the Chest has been overflowing pretty often. We are always excited to announce the final number of donated items for each year, and 2025 is no different! We are looking forward to seeing what this new year holds and are grateful for your participation in what is ahead. There’s always a fun theme for Yarn Tasting. This year we are celebrating community. We have been truly blessed by all of the friendships that have come about through this journey called The Lamb’s Loom. As you join in, we have seen our community of friends letting your little light shine by sharing your gifts and talents with others. It may be by adding things to our Donation Chest, volunteering to teach a class, or

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helping out in the Sit-n-Knit areas with your new friends. Whatever it is, this community pours out blessings by the “stitchful”! And that is what we gather to celebrate every day we’re open. And, of course, you get a menu to guide you through the “yummalicious” display of new and favorite yarns. We will have door prizes and an opportunity to sign up for classes being offered--January through March. Our Sit-n-Knit areas will be open, too, as we celebrate together. So come for the Yarn Tasting and stay for the camaraderie. We do hope you will join us this winter 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 website at thelambsloom.com May your knots be few, your purls be many, and your stitches continue to be a blessing to share God’s love throughout the world! • ~ Prayers ‘n Purls, Friends!

If you’re looking for a rehabilitation hospital for you or your loved one, we hope you will consider Weslaco Regional Rehabilitation Hospital. We provide specialized rehabilitative services to patients throughout Hidalgo County and the Rio Grande Valley who are recovering from disabilities caused by injuries, illnesses, or chronic medical conditions.

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December 31, 2025 • Welcome Home WINTER TEXAN

Mission Announces 1st Annual Citrus Sip-Off: A People’s Choice Competition

Special to Welcome Home Winter Texan

he Greater Mission Chamber of Commerce ( G M C C ) - together with Discover Mission, the City of Mission, and the Texas Citrus Fiesta--is excited to bring back the Citrus Sip-Off: A People’s Choice Competition. Last year’s event set a new vibe for our community; it brought out some of Mission’s most talented mixologists. This year’s event will be held Friday, January 30, 2026, at Allysa’s Acres, 1711 E. Mile 2 Road in Mission. “The Citrus Sip-Off is an opportunity for our restaurateurs to engage in the history and apply their creativity to enhance the entertainment industry,” said Brenda Enriquez, GMCC president and CEO. “It is important to highlight

what makes a town unique, and citrus is what we do best.” Last year’s winning cocktail was “Not a Paloma” by the Loretto Bistro and will be featured at the event. The Citrus Sip-Off invites guests to sip, savor, and vote as local bartenders compete to craft the best citrusinspired cocktail. Attendees can look forward to an evening that celebrates the Valley’s rich citrus roots, with more contestants, more tasting, and more to experience. Individual tickets start at $100. To purchase tickets, please visit shorturl.at/JMS5t online. Sponsorship opportunities are also available. For more information, please call 956-5852727 or visit missionchamber.com. •

Welcome Home WINTER TEXAN • December 31, 2025

RGV Muralist Creates “Epic” Art

by Ric Cavazos

he 20-foot-high mural in downtown Mercedes that’s located on West 3rd Street will make you slow down to take a better look. It’s a Western-style mural featuring cowboys on horseback riding with a fury in pursuit of a fleeing black bull. There’s dust flying in the background as the vaqueros ride hard with lassos over their heads, giving chase to a fearsome animal. The mural was completed during Thanksgiving week and is the work of Harlingenbased artist Leo Rivera. He has done murals for cities and businesses across the Rio Grande Valley, and the Mercedes project represents Rivera’s largest work in the region thus far. “This is my first time painting cowboys and horses,” Rivera said. “It was super fun and interesting. I tried to make it fun to paint and then hoped what would be in this space would be epic.” Rivera has also done downtown murals in his hometown, including his alluring “blue lady” that can be found amidst other murals on North A Street in Harlingen. He has two more upcoming projects to complete in Mercedes and hopes more will follow. “I want to be that guy to do more work for cities in the Valley,” he said.

Leo Rivera ventured outside his usual work to paint a Westernthemed mural in downtown Mercedes. (Photo by Ric Cavazos)

Leo Rivera’s “blue lady” is one of the more striking murals among many found in downtown Harlingen. (Photo by Ric Cavazos)

Finding Common Ground

Rivera started drawing at an early age, discovering his artistic talents. He left the Rio Grande Valley in 2009 after graduating from Harlingen High School to get his art training and education at a Denver-area design school. While in Colorado, Rivera began doing mural work and graduated with an undergraduate degree in studio fine art from the Rocky Mountain College of Art & Design. It was in Denver where Rivera painted the largest wall mural of his career to date, and it gave him the confidence to successfully navigate large-scale projects. Returning to the Valley in 2020, he set off to work as what he describes as an “artist for hire.” As such, he has done mural work for restaurants, barber and tire shops, fitness gyms, and a variety of other businesses across the Valley. Rivera’s personal preferences in art favor pop culture and themes derived from European and historical art. He realizes that—when working for clients--his commissioned art needs to highlight the mission and purpose of a business or the historical elements cities are seeking in reflecting their communities. “There’s always some back and forth in trying to find the right concept,” Rivera said. “At the end of the day, you want them to like what’s going to be on their space. You work to get to some common ground.”

Getting to Something Good

The towering mural he did in Mercedes is representative of how the artist works with a client to get to the goals sought in a commissioned art project. City leaders in Mercedes wanted a mural that reflected the Mid-Valley community’s history of agriculture and its signature livestock show that attracts large crowds every March. The give and take with Mercedes leaders included a first draft on paper that wasn’t what his clients were seeking. “I fumbled the first sketch,” Rivera said. It wasn’t really a setback because clients rarely like the first draft presented, which the artist says is understandable. Rivera went back to his reference materials of photographs of Western imagery and

Tropical colors are featured in a Leo-Rivera-created mural at La Playa restaurant in Harlingen. (Courtesy photo)

collaged them into a digital sketch. The winning sketch, which borrowed images from different photos, is the one he would paint on 3rd Street in downtown Mercedes. The cowboys-and-bull mural took 11 days to complete, with most of the work done via spray-paint art with key background colors done by brush. Rivera says he made the mural “my own” from an artistic standpoint by using different background colors from the reference photos to create something unique to Mercedes and the Valley. He praised the city for its support and encouragement, which included providing Rivera with a lift to give him the elevation he needed to finish the 20-foot-tall artistic creation. Rivera took a long look up at the Western-themed mural and smiled with pride for a job well done and with satisfaction for providing clients what they were seeking. “I think it’s fitting for the culture of the city,” he said. “The theme was fiesta. We all know the (Rio Grande Valley) livestock show is what Mercedes is known for. We fleshed out the idea to get to something that represents the city’s culture.” •

Harlingen native Leo Rivera returned home in 2020 and has established himself as a leading muralist in the Rio Grande Valley. (Photo by Ric Cavazos)

Leo Rivera has painted murals across the Rio Grande Valley, including this one for a car wash in San Benito. (Courtesy photo)

December 31, 2025 • Welcome Home WINTER TEXAN

Hello Travel Friends

Sarah Denzer, Tour Manager

History, Hill Country, Wildflowers, Wine

Dear Travel Friends, fter a few years of being asked if I would plan a trip to Fredericksburg for our Winter Texans, last year I finally pulled the trigger. The trip sold out quickly, and we couldn’t have had a better group with us. Some people don’t know just how many wineries there are in the Fredericksburg area: over 100, if you can believe that. It’s becoming the second largest wine-tourism destination in the U.S. very quickly, second only to Napa Valley in California. We visit several unique wineries on this tour that all have something a little different to offer. One of our favorites was Pontotoc Picnic Table. This vintage location channels all the nostalgia of a 1950s gas station stop. It’s been restored to highlight the vintage charm of its heyday. The owners made us a delicious, from-scratch meal to go with our wine pairings, and if I remember correctly, maybe a bottle of her famous sangria came home with us! Fredericksburg is also home to the largest wildflower farm in the U.S. It is over 1000 acres and produces hundreds of thousands of pounds of wildflower seeds every year. They cultivate over 40 species of flowers, including bluebonnets, poppies, zinnias, and more. Wild Seed Farms is a big highlight of the area, with a darling shop, seeds for purchase, and great information on planting and growing flowers in our region. This is a stop we’re adding to the tour this year. The tour was such a hit last year that people wanted to stay longer and have

some more time in town. This year’s tour added an extra night and day to the itinerary to allow us to visit a few more places around the area--including Wildseed Farms. If we’re up in the Hill Country, no trip would be complete without visiting Luckenbach, Texas. Not only will we stop in to see if we can spot Willie and the gang, but we’ll have a private dance instruction in their famous Dance Hall. For you history/military fans, we also wouldn’t miss the chance to visit the Pacific War Museum. We’ll enjoy a tour of the facility and hear all about the impact it had on the world. There’s too much fun to highlight it all, but there is something for everyone on this trip. If you’re interested in visiting this darling Hill Country town and learning all about its history, wine industry…and more, join us before all the spaces fill up. Take a look at the details on the website at welcomehomergv.com. I’m sure you’ll see that this trip is something fun you’ll want to add to your Winter Texan itinerary this season. •

~Sarah

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Welcome Home WINTER TEXAN • December 31, 2025

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Galveston, Texas

April 8 - April 13, 2026

Round trip Round trip transportation transportation from from the the Rio Rio Grande Grande Valley Valley Sweet treats on on the the bus bus Sweet treats 1nt pre-night Galveston Galveston with with Breakfast Breakfast 1nt pre-night Shopping on the the Strand Strand Shopping on A fine A fine dining dining dinner dinner experience experience in in Galveston Galveston Galveston Historical Galveston Historical Tour Tour 4 night 4 night cruise cruise on on Royal Royal Caribbean’s Caribbean’s Mariner Mariner of of the the Seas Seas Stop at Cozumel, Mexico Mexico Stop at Cozumel, Port charges, Port charges, taxes taxes and and gratuities gratuities $1299.00$1299.00- Interior Interior *per *per person person $1 9.00 e n View ie Window in o *per *per person person $1549.00 -- Ocean $1 29.00 on *per *per person person $1729.00- Balcony

All rates are *per person and based on *double occupancy. $250.00 non-refundable per person deposit due at time of booking *No triple occupancy available

Limited to 46 girls

956-687-5115 956-687-5115 www.welcomehomergv.com www.welcomehomergv.com

December 31, 2025 • Welcome Home WINTER TEXAN

Welcome Home WINTER TEXAN • December 31, 2025

Don’t Miss Out! Secure your Winter Retreat before the Season Ends! Golf View Estates, Mission

McAllen Mobile Park, McAllen

$220,000

Wagon City South, Mission

Valley View Estates, Mission Retama Village, Mission

PENDING

$119,900

Wintergreen Estates, Mission

McAllen Mobile Park, McAllen

Alamo Country Club, Alamo

$82,000

$78,500

$239,900 $16,500 $225,000 Spacious 2 bed/2 bath$21,900 home with Immaculate park model on a corner Income-producing property featuring Fully furnished 2-bedroom home 2012 unit is spacious, very well2 bed/1.5 Location, location!with This the PERFECT place forlot with GOTTA SEE living this large 1665efficient sqft 2 updated flooring, largeThis kitchen, walkbright space, a furnished bathlocation. home with brightHave livingI got spaces, two baths, RV Casita has one of the most bed/2 bath home in Alamo Country maintained and move in ready. The YOU!! This 1 bedroom/1 bathroom kitchen, newer updated flooring plus a 450 sqft coach covered carport, storage area, and in closet, ADA-friendly layout, RV coveted locations in the community. Club. updated This home flooring, is located on the kitchen has beautiful maple colored built in 2000 is fully furnished and HVAC, plus a 2022 addition offering house apartment. Includes divided easy access to shopping in the Lots of extras -pergola, storage golf course witha wonderful view of 100% turn key ready and even hookups, storage shed,wood andcabinets, a greata food pantry, all sheds, whole houseand 18 kw Generac the 4th hole. Primary for a second bedroom suite has withroom full bath parking, deck, rock yard, gutters, welcoming 55+ community of Wagon major appliances and a gas stove includes plate ware, glassware, and patio for relaxing or entertaining in an generator and gutters making it better king bed and both bedrooms have top. A bonus 7x9 laundry roomshed. with laundry. storage City South.silverware! The outdoor patio is theand in-house than new! All appliances convey. FHU new tile flooring. An updated kitchen active 55+ setting. a large storage closet, washer and perfect spot to enjoy warm South Heather Escobedo, Realtor 271Heather Escobedo, Realtor Heather for your RV, (956) but you271do not have to Escobedo, Realtor (956) 271with breakfast nook with bay(956) windows dryer included! The exterior Texas breezes with neighbors and3683and a screen in porch round out the Curt Riester, Realtor (956) 455-4195 have an RV to enjoy this fabulous 3683 shed is 3683 also included! Bonnie Dominguez, MHSLSP00045160, (956) 434-6112

Hidden Valley Ranch, Mission

home. Carol Kerr Welch, TREC540183, MHSLSP00048089, (956) 900-8487

Alamo Country Club, Alamo

McAllen Mobile Park, McAllen

friends. Curt Riester, TREC771832, MHSLSP00047858, (956) 455-4195

Hidden Valley Ranch, Mission

Retama Village, Mission

upgrades. Curt Riester, TREC771832, MHSLSP00047858, (956) 455-4195

Alamo Country Club, Alamo

Llano Grande Resort, Mercedes

$250,000

$119,000 $339,000 $96,500$145,000 $75,000 $58,500 Fully2014 furnished with split recently layout, remodeled Fully furnished homeFANTASTIC with open This updated 2 bedroom, 2 bathroomSpacious homeOwnwith 2 bed/2 bath Oak home RV Porthome Location,furnished Location, Location! an Energy-efficient 1 bed/1 bath home furnished mobile is located in an active Creek 1300 sqft Home located in A/C, RV and lookingnew for aroof, great updated place to living space, updated kitchen, and an new roof and updated flooring, with open layout, spacious kitchen, inside & out with large, fenced 55+ guarded gate community. Walk split bedrooms, McAllen Mobile park. This home is into this beautiful home and fall in love! park? Come check out this property, attached casita featuring newofflooring, full awning, insulatedincludeflooring, remodeled FULL upgrades including: new baths, yard. walk-in Large 2 shower, story storagestep-in area/ shower, golf cart, gas stove, shutters, Features updated from 2021/2022 located in the 55+ community of Llano a renovated kitchen (Painted cabinets roof, new carport, porcelain tile Murphy bed, washer/dryer, and minished, rock yard, custom shades, solar workshop with an additional 12x18 upgraded primary closet, craft/office screens, andwhere wet bar. perfect and walls, new granite countertops, sink,solarGrande flooring, Safe-Step Walk-in jetted tub/ Resort, you A own your faucet, disposal, dishwasher, and fridge) split. Includes front and backcombo, patios,doubleroom screens, water softener, storage building for plenty of shower panes storm with mini-split, and new shutters lot! RV padabundant hook-ups included 30 amp with activities and a fresh coat of paint inGenerac, the living room,retreat windows, 8” insulated walls, new flooring,Move-in 2 mini splits, water heater, water rock yard, metal roof, and workshop. and new HVAC. ready! storage. Gail Gallagher, TREC797370, and 50 amp services and a storage throughout. A/C, new washer/dryer,and and blinds a 5-stage softener, and even exterior featurescommunity amenities. shed with 220vac connection. Heather Escobedo, Realtor (956) 271- water like the screened porch,271extended Heather Escobedo, Realtorin(956) (816)(956) 916-5583 reverse osmosis system. Curt Riester,A Realtor 455-4195 Riester, Realtor (956) 455-4195 concrete, and northside fencing withCurt Heather Escobedo, TREC686290, Must See!!! Curt Riester, TREC771832, 3683 3683 gate. Heather Escobedo, TREC686290, MHSLSP00047858, (956) 455-4195

$110,000

MHSLSP00048506, (956) 271-3683

Tropical Valley Acres, Mission Wagon City North, Mission Alamo Country Club, Alamo Retama Village, Hidden Mission Valley Ranch, Mission Restful Valley Ranch, Mission Hidden Valley Ranch, Mission Wagon City South, Mission

$77,500

$179,900

$199,000

$59,900

$99,900$76,000

$115,000 $99,900

Come check out this cozy mobile Located in a active 55+ community of Are you tired of seeing the same old Searching for a gated 55+ communityUpdated furnished home on a corner RV lot with spacious pad and full Fully furnished home with porcelain Furnished home living andcheck to settlewith downfront in? Then stop and Wagon City South, this well-preserved home located in Restful Valley Ranch. thing? This 2019 2 bedroom, 2 bath bright open living, refreshed hookups, plus a bright coach house kitchen, updated tile, granite counters, a bright front out this 2appliances, bedroom 1.5 newer bath mobilelot with 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom home sits on This 14x42, 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom mobile home will check everything off kitchen, new flooring, walk-in shower, with kitchenette, mini-split, tray ceiling, home. Step inside and experience roof, HVAC, water heater, and flooring. living room with wood a corner lot and is fully furnished and home sits in the ceiling, center of the 3 lots. your list and more! Heather Escobedo, pull-through covered the bright and airy front living spacetwo mini-splits, and recessed lighting. Includes Features fenced yard, front carport, is move-in ready. The open-concept abundant built-ins, spacious laundry Heather Escobedo, TREC686290, TREC686290, MHSLSP00048506, and the lovely eat-in kitchen thatparking, powered shed, shade storage shed with covered roof and large rear garage, spacious storage living and dining space is perfect for room, and a welcoming front patio MHSLSP00048506, (956) 271-3683 (956) 271-3683 provides the perfect combinationscreens, and a new metal roof. double doors for easy access. entertaining guests or relaxing alone. room, and corner-lot setting. of functionality and comfort. perfect for relaxing or entertaining. Heather Escobedo, Realtor (956) 271Heather Escobedo, TREC686290, Carol Kerr Welch, Broker (956) 900Heather Escobedo, Realtor (956) 271Heather Escobedo, TREC686290, Curt Riester, Realtor (956) 455-4195 8487 MHSLSP00048506, (956) 271-3683 3683MHSLSP00048506, (956) 271-3683 3683

TREC License # 9011415

MHDBRK00003582

December 31, 2025 • Welcome Home WINTER TEXAN

Risica & Sons, Inc. "The Glass Specialists of the Valley"

$2.00

403 E. Exp 83, San Juan, TX

956-781-3840 with Risica & Sons the possibilities are endless! We offer complete residential glass services for all types of custom repairs and installations. We have worked across the Rio Grande Valley for more than 60 years. Shower Doors – visit our showroom for a vast selection of beautiful designs! Custom-made Screens & Sunscreens including Screen Doors Patio Glass Doors and Sliding Patio Screen Doors

OFF ANY ENTREE VALID 3-6 pm EVERY DAY May NOT be combined with any other special offers. EXPIRES 3/31/2026 Please present coupon when ordering.

We also cater, give us a call!

1020 W Nolana Ave McAllen, TX 78504

956.686.7777 3400 W Expressway 83 Building 100 Suite 100 McAllen, TX 78501

956.429.3999

Available for you Every Day!

Buy One Get One Free $14.99 Fish & Chips

Present this coupon at any location below to receive 1 FREE Donut of Choice. (excluding specialities and kolaches)

Includes Iced Tea & Soda

129 East Nolana Ave McAllen, TX 78504

EDINBURG

2575 Griffin Pkwy, Ste #1 956-271-1006

1501 N 10th 956-687-2011

800 S Cage 956-787-0502

Mc ALLEN

Happy Hour 11am-9pm Daily

MISSION

1900 W University, Ste #8 956-378-9300

PHARR

One coupon per person per visit at Shipley Donuts stores listed above. 1/20 cent cash redemption value. Offer not valid in combination with any other Shipley Donuts offer. Please present coupon when ordering. Expires 3/31/2026

Find us on Facebook

2-for-1SHAKE Buy 1& Get 1 FREE! of Equal or Lesser Value

Email us at sassypawsdoggrooming@gmail.com

With Coupon Only. Limit 1

Valid thru January 7, 2026. Valid at all Stars Drive-ins RGV locations. Not Valid In Conjunction With Any Other Promotions. Please mention coupon when ordering.

Call us at 956-525-9880

Ready to take your call!

00 FULL SERVICE OFF

GROOMING Expires 5-31-2026

Free Pickup & Delivery From Mission to Weslaco and in Between

Welcome Home WINTER TEXAN • December 31, 2025

DANCES Calendar of Events Wednesday • Dec. 31 2025 Y-Cook Breakfast 7:30 AM Bentsen Grove Resort Palmview (956) 585-7011 Jam Session 12:30 PM Trails End Resort Weslaco (956) 968-5051 Beginner Trail Dance Lessons 1:00 PM Trade Winds RV Resort Mission (815) 383-6783 Dreamer River Tour 1:00 PM Riverside Club Mission (956) 581-1033 13+ Intermediate Trail Dance Lessons 2:00 PM Trade Winds RV Resort Mission (815) 383-6783 Murder Mystery Dinner Dance 4:30 PM Mission Bell Tradewinds RV Resort Mission (956) 585-4833 $25 New Year’s Eve w/The Castaway 6:00 PM Hidden Valley Ranch Mission (956) 580-4477 $12 New Year’s Eve w/The Rovers 7:00 PM Paradise Park Inc. McAllen (956) 682-8081 TBD New Year’s Eve w/Les Cantos 7:00 PM Split Rail RV Park Mission (715) 417-0320 $15 New Year’s Eve w/The Kenastons 7:00 PM Alamo Rec Veh Park Alamo (956) 787-8221 $15/$25 New Year’s Eve w/Diego & Edith 7:00 PM Siesta Retirement Village Weslaco (956) 969-3740

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.

New Year’s Eve w/Wally Garza & Texas Blood 7:00 PM Snow to Sun RV Resort Weslaco (956) 9680322 $15 New Year’s Eve Party 7:30 PM Seven Oaks Resort Mission (956) 581-0068 New Year’s Eve w/The Buck Hollow Band 8:00 PM Alamo Rose RV Resort Alamo (956) 783-2600 New Year’s Eve w/Route 66 8:00 PM Country Sunshine RV Resort Weslaco (956) 968-7171 $15/$20 New Year’s Eve w/Los City Boys 8:00 PM Paradise South RV Resort Mercedes (956) 376-3798 $20/ $25 New Year’s Eve w/Mary Chamberlin & Southern Express 8:00 PM Park Place Estates RV Resort Harlingen (956) 412-0375 $15 New Year’s Eve w/Valley Heat 8:00 PM Enchanted Valley Ranch Mission (717) 877-8375 $20 New Year’s Eve Dance 8:00 PM Leisure World Weslaco (956) 968-8412 $15/$20 New Year’s Eve w/Vintage Travelers 8:00 PM Paradise Resort Estates Pharr (956) 787-1521 New Year’s Eve w/Jamming Joe 8:00 PM Sunshine RV Resort Harlingen (956) 428-4137 $15 New Year’s Eve w/Sweetwater 8:00 PM Texas Trails RV Resort Pharr (956) 787-6538 $18 New Year’s Eve w/The Lockhart’s 8:00 PM Eldorado Acres Palmview (956) 581-6718

New Year’s Eve w/Steven May & The Southern Knights 8:00 PM Tip O Texas RV Resort Pharr (956) 787-9959 $15 New Year’s Eve w/Southern Vibes 8:00 PM Trophy Gardens RV Resort Alamo (956) 685-5300 $20 New Year’s Eve w/The Night Howlers 8:00 PM Ranchero Village Senior Resort Park Weslaco (956) 968-6223 $15 New Year’s Eve w/Cool Change 8:00 PM Winter Ranch RV Resort Alamo (956) 781-1358 $20 Dance w/The Buck Hollow Band 8:00 PM Alamo Rose RV Resort Alamo (956) 783-2600 $15 New Year’s Eve w/Gatos Locos 8:00 PM Greengate Grove Palmview (956) 581-1932 $18 New Year’s Eve w/The Howlers 8:00 PM Palm Shadows Resort Donna (956) 597-6900 $20 New Year’s Eve w/Rewind 8:00 PM Magic Valley Resort Weslaco (956) 373-0799 $25 New Year’s Eve w/Burnin’ Ember 8:00 PM Pine to Palm Resort Park Weslaco (956) 376-1248 $20 Dance w/Texas Wheels 8:00 PM Tropic Star RV Resort Pharr (956) 787-5957 $20 New Year’s Eve w/George & The Texas Outlaws 8:00 PM Winter Green Estates Mission (956) 3227434 $15/$17

Continued on the next page

$20 OFF $200+ PURCHASE 3/31/26 EXCLUSIONS APPLY | EXPIRES 3/31/24

$10 OFF $50+ PURCHASE

3/31/26 EXCLUSIONS APPLY | EXPIRES 3/31/24

$5 OFF $25+ PURCHASE

3/31/26 EXCLUSIONS APPLY | EXPIRES 3/31/24

956-800-1096 MON-FRI 8AM-5PM SAT 9AM-3PM

       

Zs WĂƌƚƐ ǁŶŝŶŐƐ ^ƵŶƐĐƌĞĞŶƐ ^ƚĞƉƐ Θ ZĂŝůƐ tĂƚĞƌ ,ĞĂƚĞƌ ZŽŽĨ ŽĂƟŶŐƐ ůĞĐƚƌŝĐĂů WĂƌƚƐ WůƵŵďŝŶŐ WĂƌƚƐ

       

801 E US Bus Hwy 83, McAllen, TX 78501 ^ĐƌĞǁƐ Θ dŽŽůƐ dƵďƐ Θ ^ŚŽǁĞƌƐ ZĞŐŝƐƚĞƌƐ Θ sĞŶƚƐ /ŶƚĞƌŝŽƌ Θ ǆƚ͘ ŽŽƌƐ sŝŶǇů ^ŝĚŝŶŐ Θ ^ŬŝƌƟŶŐ ŶĐŚŽƌƐ͕ ^ƚƌĂƉƐ Θ WŝĞƌƐ ^ŝŶŬƐ͕ &ĂƵĐĞƚƐ Θ dŽŝůĞƚƐ ůƵŵŝŶƵŵ Θ sŝŶǇů tŝŶĚŽǁƐ

December 31, 2025 • Welcome Home WINTER TEXAN

JAM SESSIONS Continued

Calendar of Events

New Year’s Eve w/Muzik 8:15 PM Alamo Palms RV Resort Alamo (956) 355-2567 $20 New Year’s Eve w/Vintage 8:30 PM El Valle Del Sol Mission (717) 877-8375 $15 New Year’s Eve w/Retro Rockers 8:30 PM Bentsen Grove Resort Palmview (956) 585-7011 $20 New Year’s Eve w/J. Michael Laferty 8:30 PM Orange Grove RV Park Edinburg (956) 383-7931 $18 New Year’s Eve Dance w/The Brody River Band 9:00 PM Llano Grande Resort Mercedes (956) 5652638 $20 New Year’s Eve w/DJ Roland 9:00 PM Eastgate RV Park Harlingen (956) 423-3137 TBA New Year’s Eve w/Cheyenne Band 9:00 PM Canyon Lake RV Resort Mission (956) 580-4545 $15 New Year’s Eve w/The Warman Trio 9:00 PM Lakewood RV Resort Harlingen (956) 423-1170 $18 New Year’s Eve w/Ron Moshier 9:00 PM Victoria Palms RV Resort Donna (956) 249-2266 South Padre Island New Year’s Eve Fireworks 9:15 PM South Padre Island Entertainment District South Padre Island

Thursday • Jan. 1, 2026

Pancakes & Waffles 9:00 AM The Grove San Juan Prices Varies

1645 S. Bentsen Palm Drive, Palmview, TX Red Bertolucci, Activity Director

MEALS

Dreamer River Tour 1:00 PM Riverside Club Mission (956) 581-1033 13+ Church Service 7:00 PM Bibleville Conference Grounds Alamo (956) 787-2024

Friday • Jan. 2, 2026

Craft Show 8:00 AM Palm Shadows Resort Donna (956) 597-6900 Jam Session 12:30 PM Paradise Resort Estates Pharr (956) 787-1521 Jam Session 12:30 PM Tropic Winds RV Resort Harlingen (956) 423-4020 Jam Session 1:00 PM Split Rail RV Park Mission (715) 417-0320 Beginner Trail Dance Lessons 1:00 PM Casa del Valle RV Resort Alamo (815) 383-6783 Dreamer River Tour 1:00 PM Riverside Club Mission (956) 581-1033 13+ Intermediate Trail Dance Lessons 2:00 PM Casa del Valle RV Resort Alamo (815) 383-6783 Happy Hour w/Duolistic 3:00 PM Trails End Resort Weslaco (956) 968-5051 PTH 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+ Friday Fish Fry 4:30 PM Mission West RV Resort Palmview (956) 585-5551 Karaoke 5:00 PM Alamo Palms RV Resort Alamo (956) 787-7571

TUES HAPPY HOUR 3 PM - 5 PM (unless otherwise noted) Pass the bucket

Jan 6 • Bruce Boudreau Jan 13 • No Happy Hour Jan 20 • Lady & The Outlaw

ENTERTAINMENT Doors Open 1 hour before

Jan 7 •

$10 • 7-9pm

Goldwing Express Concert DANCES

7 PM - 10 PM

Doors Open at 6pm. BYOB Snacks, Popcorn & Soda for sale

New Year’s Eve! with Vinyl Spin

Dec 31 • 8pm-12am $20 Reservations Required Jan 2 • Retro Rockers $10 Pajama Party Nite

Reservations Required

EVERY THURS SOUP SUPPER 4:30 PM | $5 All You Can Eat

BYOTS • Dessert for sale No Soup Supper Jan 1

PATIO SALE Jan 3

8:00 AM - 12:00 PM Wednesdays 9AM

Cowboy Church Jan 7, 14 & 21 Free will donation Breakfast for Sale

CRAFT FAIR Jan 9

8:00 AM - 12:00 PM Two Halls of Vendors Breakfast and Bakery items for sale

1051 W. Bus Hwy 83 | Donna, TX 78537

www.bit-o-heaven.net

Bit-O-Heaven RV and Mobile Home Resort

Susan Thomas, A C T I V I T Y D I R E C T O R

603-396-2786 / fulltimers@earthlink.net

SALES Country Jam & Dancing 5:30 PM Hidden Valley Ranch Mission (956) 580-4477 Karaoke 6:30 PM Tip O Texas RV Resort Pharr (956) 787-9959 Dance w/Kenaston’s High Country 7:00 PM Fiesta Village Mission (612) 618-9408 $10 Dance w/Denim & Lace 7:00 PM Paradise South RV Resort Mercedes (956) 565-2044 $10 Dance w/Retro Rockers 7:00 PM Bit-O-Heaven RV and MH Resort Donna (603) 396-2786 $10 Fancy: A Tribute to Reba 7:00 PM Casa Del Sol Donna (956) 464-2272 $9

Saturday • Jan. 3, 2026

Eldorado Acres Breakfast 7:00 AM Eldorado Acres Palmview (956) 581-6718 Prices Varies Patio Sale 8:00 AM Bit-O-Heaven RV and MH Resort Donna (603) 396-2786 Saturday Breakfast 8:00 AM Chimney Park MHC Mission (956) 585-5061 $8 Patio Sale 8:00 AM Alamo Palms RV Resort Alamo (956) 355-2567 Patio Sale 8:00 AM Palm Shadows Resort Donna (956) 597-6900 Craft Show 8:00 AM Texas Trails RV Resort Pharr (956) 787-6538 Gate Sale 9:00 AM Bibleville Conference Grounds Alamo (956) 787-2024 PLUS Square Dance Review 9:00 AM Alamo Palms RV Resort Alamo (217) 737-5677 $5

Welcome Home WINTER TEXAN • December 31, 2025

DANCES Western Shuffleboard 11:30 AM Alamo Palms RV Resort Alamo (956) 787-7571 Dreamer River Tour 1:00 PM Riverside Club Mission (956) 581-1033 13+ Larry Delawder Family 2:00 PM Bibleville Conference Grounds Alamo (956) 787-2024 Free Dance w/Hot Rodz 6:00 PM Bentsen Grove Resort Palmview (956) 585-7011 $10 Dance w/Ron Moshier 7:00 PM Mission Bell Tradewinds RV Resort Mission (956) 585-4833 $10 Dance w/Burnin’ Ember 7:00 PM Trophy Gardens Alamo (956) 685-5300 Sock Hop Dance w/The Warman Trio 7:00 PM Country Sunshine RV Resort Weslaco (956) 969-1557 $12 Dance w/Texas Wheels 7:00 PM Casa del Valle RV Resort Alamo (956) 783-5008 $10 Larry Delawder Family 7:00 PM Bibleville Conference Grounds Alamo (956) 787-2024 Free Dance w/The Buck Hollow Band 7:00 PM Alamo Rec Veh Park Alamo (956) 787-8221 $10

Sunday • Jan. 4, 2026

Bible Study & Prayer 9:00 AM Bibleville Conference Grounds Alamo (956) 787-2024 Rock & Roll Jam w/The Howlers 12:00 PM Chimney Park MHC Mission (402) 630-0492 Jam Session 1:00 PM Fiesta Village Mission (956) 585-9264 Steven May & The Southern Knights 1:30 PM

ENTERTAINMENT & SHOWS Riverside Club Mission (956) 581-1033 Taco Night 5:00 PM Paradise Resort Estates Pharr (956) 787-1521 Gospel Hour w/The Delawder Family 5:00 PM Lakewood RV Resort Harlingen (956) 423-1170 PTH Gospel Jam 5:30 PM Lamplighter MH Subdivision Palmview (956) 585-7900 Goldwing Express 7:00 PM W and I Resort Mission (973) 220-4228 $10 Church Service 7:00 PM Bibleville Conference Grounds Alamo (956) 787-2024 Matt Macis Show 7:00 PM Trophy Gardens RV Resort Alamo (956) 685-5300 $9

Palmview (956) 585-7011 Price Varies Hamburger Night 4:30 PM Mission West RV Resort Palmview (956) 585-5551 Country Jam 5:30 PM Lamplighter MH Subdivision Palmview (956) 585-7900 Jam Session 5:30 PM Mission West RV Resort Palmview (956) 585-5551 Ron Moshier 6:00 PM Hidden Valley Ranch Mission (956) 580-4477 $10 Dance w/The Kenaston’s 7:00 PM Rio Valley Estates Weslaco (515) 250-6313 $9 Goldwing Express 7:00 PM Palm Shadows Resort Donna (956) 597-6900 $10

Introduction to Square Dancing 12:00 PM Alamo Palms RV Resort Alamo (217) 737-5677 Free Country Jam 1:00 PM Yellow Rose RV Park La Feria (956) 797-2726 Invite Only Jam Session 1:00 PM Winter Haven MHP Pharr Pharr (956) 303-4500 Jam Session 1:00 PM Countryside MH & RV Park Donna (918) 916-0541 Jam Session 1:00 PM Alamo Palms RV Resort Alamo (956) 355-2567 Happy Hour w/Diego & Edith 3:00 PM Snow to Sun RV Resort Weslaco (956) 968-0322 PTH Happy Hour w/Cool Change 4:00 PM Tip O Texas RV Resort Pharr (956) 787-6461 PTH Y-Cook Dinner 4:30 PM Bentsen Grove Resort

Men’s Prayer & Bible Study 8:00 AM Bibleville Conference Grounds Alamo (956) 787-2024 Biscuits & Gravy 9:00 AM The Grove San Juan Prices Varies Women’s Prayer & Bible Study 9:30 AM Bibleville Conference Grounds Alamo (956) 787-2024 Beginner Trail Dance Lessons 11:00 AM Enchanted Valley Ranch Mission (815) 383-6783 Jam Luncheon 11:00 AM Roadrunner RV Resort Alamo (763) 229-5318 Beginner Square Dance 12:00 PM Alamo Palms RV Resort Alamo (217) 737-5677 $5 Intermediate Trail Dance Lessons 12:00 PM Enchanted Valley Ranch Mission (815) 383-6783

Monday • Jan. 5, 2026

Tuesday • Jan. 6, 2026

Continued on the next page

Lorem ipsum

DANCES

ENTERTAINMENT

Llano Grande Event Center Sale Dances are 7 - 10 pm PrePrice Dec 31 The Brody River Band New Year’s Eve Dance 9:00 pm - 12:15 am

$20

Jan 10

Rewind

$12

Jan 17

Retro Rockers

$12

Jan 23

Seven Bridges Eagles Tribute Concert

$35

7-10 pm

New Year’s Eve Dance with The Night Howlers

Wed, Dec 31 8 pm- Midnight $15.00 Tickets on sale now!

Jan 16 Steven May &

The Southern Knights

HAPPY HOUR - Event Center Pass The Hat

Happy Hour

Jan 6 The Lockhart’s 5 - 7 pm Jan 7 Karaoke w/Andrew 5 - 8 pm Jan 8 Traveling Troubadours 6:30-8:30 pm Jan 9 Blues Program w/ Mike Ptak 5 - 7 pm

Jan 23

PARKWIDE PATIO SALE SAT, JAN 31 - 8AM-NOON

Feb 6

Jan 9

$10.00

Pass The Hat

Texas Storm 3 - 5:00 pm Justin Terry 3 - 5:00 pm Diego & Edith 3 - 4:30 pm

Cafe & Bar will be open for Dances, Happy Hours & Karaoke

Ticket office is open Monday - Friday 10am - 4pm Tickets office closed 12-12:30 pm for lunch

Tickets purchased at the door are $5.00 more

2215 E. West Blvd, Mercedes

(956) 565-2638 llanogranderesort.com

CRAFT SHOW & SALE Jan 22 9 am - 12 pm

1900 S. Bridge Ave, Weslaco

(956) 968-6223

December 31, 2025 • Welcome Home WINTER TEXAN

JAM SESSIONS Continued

Calendar of Events

Jam Session w/The Esquires 12:30 PM Paradise Park Inc. McAllen (956) 682-8081 Jam Session 12:30 PM Paradise Resort Estates Pharr (956) 787-1521 Dance w/Rick & Lois Berg 1:00 PM Fiesta Village Mission (612) 618-9408 $7 Jam Session 1:00 PM Roadrunner RV Resort Alamo (763) 229-5318 Jam Session 1:00 PM Lakewood RV Resort Harlingen (956) 423-1170 R/C Racing Cars & Dinner 3:00 PM Alamo Palms RV Resort Alamo (956) 355-2567 Happy Hour w/Michael Flores 3:00 PM Alamo Rec Veh Park Alamo (956) 787-8221 PTH Happy Hour w/Bruce Boudreau 3:00 PM Bit-OHeaven RV and MH Resort Donna (603) 396-2786 PTH Happy Hour w/Steven May 3:00 PM Snow to Sun RV Resort Weslaco (956) 968-0322 PTH Happy Hour w/The Lockhart’s 5:00 PM Llano Grande Resort and Golf Club Mercedes (956) 5652638 PTH Happy Hour w/The Buck Hollow Band 5:00 PM Tropic Star RV Resort Pharr (956) 787-5957 PTH Jam Session 6:30 PM Country Palms RV Park San Juan (952)212-9640

MEALS Dance w/Dave Perryman & The Country Revue 7:00 PM Trails End Resort Weslaco (956) 968-5051 $10/$12 Dance w/Leslie Blasing 7:00 PM Paradise Park RV Resort Harlingen (956) 425-6881 $10 Dance w/Ron Moshier 7:00 PM Eastgate RV Park Harlingen (956) 423-3137 TBA

Wednesday • Jan. 7, 2026

Y-Cook Breakfast 7:30 AM Bentsen Grove Resort Palmview (956) 585-7011 Price Varies Craft Fair 8:00 AM Paradise South RV Resort Mercedes (956) 565-2044 Goldwing Express Cowboy Church 9:00 AM BitO-Heaven RV and MH Resort Donna (603) 396-2786 PTH Craft Show 9:00 AM Paradise Resort Estates Pharr (956) 787-1521 Plus Square Dance w/Joe & Chris Saltel 9:00 AM Tropic Star RV Resort Pharr (956) 787-5957 $8 Jam Session 12:30 PM Trails End Resort Weslaco (956) 968-5051 Music Jam 12:30 PM Sunshine RV Resort Harlingen (956) 428-4137 Speed Dating Event 12:30 PM Bentsen Grove Resort Palmview (956) 585-7011 Call Act Office for details Open Jam Session 1:00 PM Chimney Park MHC Mission (956) 585-5061 Beginner Trail Dance Lessons 1:00 PM Trade Winds

SALES RV Resort Mission (815) 383-6783 Country Jam 1:00 PM Heritage Square Mission (320) 557-5521 Dreamer River Tour 1:00 PM Riverside Club Mission (956) 581-1033 13+ Intermediate Trail Dance Lessons 2:00 PM Trade Winds RV Resort Mission (815) 383-6783 Happy Hour w/Cactus Willie & The Drifter 3:00 PM Southern Comfort RV Resort Weslaco (956) 9683140 PTH Happy Hour w/Curt James 3:00 PM Lakewood RV Resort Harlingen (956) 423-1170 PTH Happy Hour w/Ron Moshier 3:00 PM Bentsen Grove Resort Palmview (956) 585-7011 PTH Happy Hour w/Buck Hollow Band 3:30 PM Paradise South RV Resort Mercedes (956) 565-2044 PTH Karaoke w/Andrew 5:00 PM Llano Grande Resort and Golf Club Mercedes (956) 565-2638 PTH Gospel Sing 6:00 PM Southern Comfort RV Resort Weslaco (956) 968-3140 MS & PLUS w/Rounds 6:30 PM Alamo Palms RV Resort Alamo (217) 737-5677 $6 Jonny Bird 6:30 PM Pharr South Pharr (956) 7877839 $10 Cowboy Elvis- Bob Buttermore 7:00 PM McAllen Mobile Park (956) 682-3304 $10 Goldwing Express 7:00 PM Bit-O-Heaven RV and MH Resort Donna (603) 396-2786 $10 Matt Macis Show 7:00 PM Casa Del Sol Donna (956) 464-2272 $8

ENTERTAINMENT

Event Calendar View the complete season calendar on our website! Includes detailed event information, directions and more! Scan the QR Code below.�

LIVE MUSIC In Fond Memory of Pops Baldridge Jan 4 3pm Chimney Park Jan 4 7pm W&I Resort Jan 5 7pm Palm Shadows Jan 6 5pm Mission Bell-Cowboy Church Jan 7 9am Bit O Heaven-Cowboy Church Jan 7 7pm Bit O Heaven Concert Jan 8 2pm Posada Del Sol Jan 8 6:15pm Park Place Estates Jan 9 7pm Trails End Jan 10 7pm Valley View Estates Jan 11 9am Paradise Park-Cowboy Church Jan 11 11am Park Place-Cowboy Church Jan 11 4pm McAllen Mobile -Cowboy Church Jan 11 7pm Trophy Gardens Jan 12 7pm Leisure Valley Ranch Jan 13 7pm Countryside Park 417.294.0466 for Bookings www.goldwingexpress.net goldwingexpress@yahoo.com

DOOR PRIZES

MCALLEN CONVENTION MCALLEN CONVENTION CENTER CENTER JANUARY 20 JANUARY 20 & & 21, 21, 2026 2026 9:00 AM 9:00 AM -- 3:00 3:00 PM PM 700 CONVENTION CENTER BLVD (CORNER OF (CORNER OF W WARE ARE & EXPRESSW EXPRESSWAY AY 83)

Free Admission dmission

BROWNSVILLE EVENT BROWNSVILLE EVENT CENTER CENTER JANUARY 22, JANUARY 22, 2026 2026 10:00 AM 10:00 AM -- 3:00 3:00 PM PM 1 EVENT CENTER CENTER,, PPAREDES AREDES LINE RD RD.. (BROWNSVILLE, TX (BROWNSVILLE, TX))

for more information call or visit us online! 956-687-5115 www.wintertexanexpo.com

Welcome Home WINTER TEXAN • December 31, 2025

DANCES

ENTERTAINMENT & SHOWS

Concert w/The Lady Bugs 7:00 PM Fun N Sun RV Resort San Benito (956) 399-5800 $22/$24 Dance w/Steven May & The Southern Knights 7:00 PM Tip O Texas RV Resort Pharr (956) 787-6461 $8

Thursday • Jan. 8, 2026

RGV Woodcarvers Meeting 8:00 AM Las Palmas Community Center McAllen (816) 590-6521 Craft Show 8:00 AM Tropic Winds RV Resort Harlingen (956) 423-4020 Bluegrass Jam 9:00 AM Lamplighter MH Subdivision Palmview (956) 585-7900 Pancakes & Waffles 9:00 AM The Grove San Juan Prices Varies Advanced Square Dance Workshop w/Joe and Chris Saltel 9:30 AM Tropic Star RV Resort Pharr (956) 787-5957 $8 Jam Luncheon 11:00 AM Pharr South Pharr (956) 7877839 Y-Cook Lunch 11:30 AM Bentsen Grove Resort Palmview (956) 585-7011 Price Varies Jam Session 12:00 PM Pharr South Pharr (956) 787-7839 The Lady & The Outlaw 1:00 PM Riverside Club Mission (956) 581-1033 Dreamer River Tour 1:00 PM Riverside Club Mission (956) 581-1033 13+ Acoustic Bluegrass Jam 1:30 PM VIP La Feria RV Park West La Feria (940) 453-0196 Goldwing Express 2:00 PM Posada Del Sol Harlingen (956) 423-3534

Happy Hour w/Diego & Edith 3:00 PM Country Sunshine RV Resort Weslaco (956) 969-1557 PTH Happy Hour w/Curt James 3:00 PM Pine to Palm Resort Park Weslaco (956) 376-1248 PTH Soup Supper 4:00 PM Bit-O-Heaven RV and MH Resort Donna (603) 396-2786 $5 Happy Hour w/Blue Wolf 4:00 PM Tip O Texas RV Resort Pharr (956) 787-6461 PTH Goldwing Express 6:00 PM Park Place Estates RV Resort Harlingen (956) 4121-0375 $10 Acoustic Music Jam 6:00 PM Palm Gardens RV and MH Park Harlingen (956) 423-7670 Country Variety Jam 6:30 PM La Hacienda Estates Alamo (612) 644-1753 Happy Hour w/The Traveling Troubadours 6:30 PM Llano Grande Resort and Golf Club Mercedes (956) 565-2638 PTH Dance w/The Howlers 7:00 PM Mission Bell Tradewinds RV Resort Mission (956) 585-4833 $10 Church Service 7:00 PM Bibleville Conference Grounds Alamo (956) 787-2024 Cool Change 7:00 PM Paradise Park RV Resort Harlingen (956) 425-6881 $12 Rick McEwen 7:00 PM Bentsen Grove Resort Palmview (956) 585-7011 $10 Jam Session 7:00 PM Victoria Palms RV Resort Donna (956) 249-2266

Friday • Jan. 9, 2026

Craft Fair 8:00 AM Bit-O-Heaven RV and MH Resort

Donna (603) 396-2786 Jam Session 12:30 PM Paradise Resort Estates Pharr (956) 787-1521 Jam Session 12:30 PM Tropic Winds RV Resort Harlingen (956) 423-4020 Jam Session 1:00 PM Split Rail RV Park Mission (715) 417-0320 Beginner Trail Dance Lessons 1:00 PM Casa del Valle RV Resort Alamo (815) 383-6783 Dreamer River Tour 1:00 PM Riverside Club Mission (956) 581-1033 13+ Intermediate Trail Dance Lessons 2:00 PM Casa del Valle RV Resort Alamo (815) 383-6783 Happy Hour w/Texas Storm 3:00 PM Ranchero Village Senior Resort Weslaco (956) 968-6223 PTH 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+ Friday Fish Fry 4:30 PM Mission West RV Resort Palmview (956) 585-5551 Blues Program w/Mike Ptak 5:00 PM Llano Grande Resort Mercedes (956) 565-2638 PTH Karaoke 5:00 PM Alamo Palms RV Resort Alamo (956) 787-7571 Wild West Murder Mystery & Dinner 5:30 PM Eldorado Acres Palmview (956) 581-6718 Country Jam & Dancing 5:30 PM Hidden Valley Ranch Mission (956) 580-4477

Continued on the next page

Trophy Gardens

800 State Hwy 495 Alamo, TX 78516

Proudly Serving Our Customers Since 1982

956-581-1033 | 214 E. Chimney Rd. Mission

A Wilder Corporation Park

www.riversideclubmission.com

UPCOMING DANCES • $9

Indoor / outdoor seating by the Rio Grande River

Now Hiring Crew Member for Boat Rides

OPEN Wed - Sun 11 AM- 8 PM

Try our Texas Size Pork Tenderloin Friday Fish Fry 4:00 - 7:00 PM White Fish or Shrimp Dinner $14.99 Combo Dinner $15.99 Includes Cole Slaw, Baked Beans, French Fries and Hush Puppies

Live Music in the Event Center Sun Jan 4 1:30 - 5:30 Thursdays 1:00 - 5:00 Sun Jan 11 1:30 - 5:30 Sat Jan 17 1:00 - 5:00

Steven May & Southern Knights The Lady & The Outlaw

Wally Garza & Youngblood The Jolly Huntsmen Band

Riverside Dreamer RIVER TOURS *** Reserve Now for Current Week Only *** Additional boat rides added as neeeded Covered Cushion Seating | Enclosed Windows & Heating | No Outside Bevarage / Food Allowed

Wed, Dec 31

Jan 2 Jan 9

8:00 pm

$18

No Dance - Happy New Year

Southern Vibes

Credit Cards accepted by phone, in-person, or at the door for Dances & Shows

Craft show

Saturday, Jan 3, 2026 8:00 am - 12:00 pm

Join us for a Fantastic Season of Entertainment! Sun Jan 4 3 Fools on 3 Stools $10 2:45 PM

Sun Jan 11 5:00 PM

Murder Mystery

Dinner & Entertainment

Sun Jan 18 Jonny Bird

$15

$9Adv /$10Door

South Texas Troubadours

(DOWN RIVER)

Private Tours Available

unless stated otherwise

e ar’s Ev e Y w r N with Sweetwater

2:45 PM

1 HOUR RIVER TOURS Wednesday 1:00pm Thursday 1:00pm Friday 1:00pm Saturday 1:00pm Seniors $13 Adults $15 Child $11

FRIDAY DANCEs 7PM|$8

Steven May, Rick McEwen, Justin Terry & Ron Moshier

CALL TODAY

956-581-4477 Cash Only

(Price Includes Tax)

Sun Jan 25 7 - 10 pm $20 Concessions Available FOR INFORMATION / TICKET PURCHASES

956-782-7886

501 W. Owassa Rd.• Pharr, TX 78577

7 PM - 10 PM

Doors open to Public 5:30 PM Concessions and Set Ups Available BYOB

Jan 3

•

WINTER RANCH RV RESORT

600 State Hwy 495 Alamo, TX 78516

Burnin’ Ember

DANCES

Jan 10 • Steven May & The Southern Knights

Dec. 31 Cool Change 8-12am $20pp presale tickets “New Year’s Eve Bash” available now

Jan 17 • Southern Vibes

Jan 9

Jan 24

•

Ron Moshier

ENTERTAINMENT

Doors open to Public 6:00 PM

Matt Macias

$9.00

Goldwing Express

SUN, Jan 11 • 7-9 PM $10 Adv/$12 Door

Craft & Vendor SALE

Sat Jan 24 • 8:00am - 12:00pm

956-685-5300

7-10pm $15pp presale tickets available now

Jan 23 Goldwing Express 7-10pm $10pp

Jan 31 • Vinyl Spin

SUN, Jan 4 • 7-9 PM

Ron Moshier & Vinyl Spin

ENTERTAINMENT Jan 11 Patrick Davidson 3-5pm $8pp Jan 19 3 Fools on 3 Stools 7-9pm $10pp

CRAFT SHOW Jan 13 9am-12pm Feb 10 9am-12pm

OPEN to the public Looking for vendors All Events Open To The Public Doors open 1 hour prior to event Concessions open For More Information Call

956-783-4587

wractivitiesofﬁce@gmail.com

December 31, 2025 • Welcome Home WINTER TEXAN

JAM SESSIONS Continued

Calendar of Events Dance w/Darlene & The Boys 6:00 PM Fiesta Village Mission (612) 618-9408 PTH Dance w/Rewind 6:00 PM Bentsen Grove Resort Palmview (956) 585-7011 $10 Dance w/The Lady & The Outlaw 6:30 PM Alamo Rec Veh Park Alamo (956) 787-8221 $8 Karaoke 6:30 PM Tip O Texas RV Resort Pharr (956) 787-9959 Jonny Bird 7:00 PM Tropical Valley Acres Mission $10 Goldwing Express 7:00 PM Trails End Resort Weslaco (956) 968-5051 $10/$12 The Lockhart’s 7:00 PM Rio Valley Estates Weslaco (815) 222-7464 $10 Dance w/Les Canto 7:00 PM Paradise South RV Resort Mercedes (956) 565-2044 $10 Spittin’ Image 7:00 PM Eastgate RV Park Harlingen (956) 423-3137 $10 Dance w/Justin Terry 7:00 PM Alamo Rose RV Resort Alamo (956) 783-2600 $10 Dance w/The Buck Hollow Band 7:00 PM Bit-OHeaven RV and MH Resort Donna (603) 396-2786 $10 Dance w/Steven May & The Southern Knights 7:00 PM Fun N Sun RV Resort San Benito (956) 399-5800 $8/$10 Dance w/Double Decker 7:00 PM Casa Del Sol Donna (956) 464-2272 $9

MEALS Dance w/Hot Rodz 7:00 PM Magic Valley Resort Weslaco (956) 373-0799 $10/$12 Dance w/Southern Vibes 7:00 PM Texas Trails RV Resort Pharr (956) 787-6538 $8 Dance w/The Agency 7:00 PM Tropic Star RV Resort Pharr (956) 787-5957 $12 Tim Hadler 7:00 PM Winter Green Estates Mission (605) 334-0687 $10 Dance w/Ron Moshier & Vinyl Spin 7:00 PM Winter Ranch RV Resort Alamo (956) 781-1358 $15

Saturday • Jan. 10, 2026

Eldorado Acres Breakfast 7:00 AM Eldorado Acres Palmview (956) 581-6718 Prices Varies Saturday Breakfast 8:00 AM Chimney Park MHC Mission (956) 585-5061 $8 Patio Sale 8:00 AM Sunshine RV Resort Harlingen (956) 428-4137 Craft Show 8:00 AM Bentsen Grove Resort Palmview (956) 585-7011 PLUS Square Dance Review 9:00 AM Alamo Palms RV Resort Alamo (217) 737-5677 $5 Western Shuffleboard 11:30 AM Alamo Palms RV Resort Alamo (956) 787-7571 Live Music 1:00 PM Riverside Club Mission (956) 5811033 Dreamer River Tour 1:00 PM Riverside Club Mission (956) 581-1033 13+ The Chitans 2:00 PM Bibleville Conference Grounds Alamo (956) 787-2024 Free

SALES Luau w/Curt James 5:00 PM Split Rail RV Park Mission (715) 417-0320 $15 Dance w/Vinyl Spin 6:00 PM Hidden Valley Ranch Mission (956) 580-4477 $9 Dance w/The Lockhart’s 6:00 PM Greengate Grove Palmview (956) 581-1932 $10 Plus Square Dance w/Joe & Chris Saltel 6:00 PM Tropic Star RV Resort Pharr (956) 787-5957 $8 Dance w/Rewind 7:00 PM Llano Grande Resort Mercedes (956) 565-2638 $12 Dance w/The Fabulous Cruisers 7:00 PM Mission Bell Tradewinds RV Resort Mission (956) 585-4833 $12 Goldwing Express 7:00 PM Valley View Estates Mission (956) 580-0428 Dance w/Texas Wheels 7:00 PM Casa del Valle RV Resort Alamo (956) 783-5008 $10 Dance w/Retro Rockers 7:00 PM Paradise Resort Estates Pharr (956) 787-1521 $10 The Warman Trio 7:00 PM Fiesta Village Mission (612) 618-9408 $10 The Chitans 7:00 PM Bibleville Conference Grounds Alamo (956) 787-2024 Free Spittin’ Image 7:00 PM Seven Oaks Resort Mission (956) 581-0068 $10 Dance w/Southern Vibes 7:00 PM Snow to Sun RV Resort Weslaco (956) 968-0322 $8 Dance w/Steven May & The Southern Knights 7:00 PM Trophy Gardens RV Resort Alamo (956) 685-5300 $9 Winter Wonderland w/Ron Moshier 7:00 PM Siesta Retirement Village Weslaco (956) 969-3740

Bayside 2026 Steven May and the Southern Knights: Texans Through and Through

Special to Welcome Home Winter Texan

teven May and the Southern Knights are a South Texas band playing a variety of country, rock, and oldies. May and his band were humbled and honored to be voted “Country Band of The Year” by the Valley Star Awards in 2022, 2023, 2024, and 2025. He was also honored to have been voted “Entertainer of the Year” and “Male Vocalist of the Year.” May is the founder, lead singer, and lead guitarist of the band and is a full-time entertainer. He was born and raised in Texas, where he grew up on a farm. May continues to farm the land his great grandparents did--along with singing and playing music. Over the years, he has opened for big-name acts, played and recorded in Nashville, and even played for a former first lady. But he will be the first to tell you, nothing compares with entertaining Winter Texans in the Valley and the bonus of the lifelong friendships he has been blessed with, all while doing what he loves. He is proud to share the stage and play music with the best musicians the Valley has to offer: Leon Mann on bass/vocals and Tony Rodriguez on drums/vocals. Mann and Rodriguez

are both full-time musicians and are the backbone of Southern Knights. They were both born and raised in Texas and are proud to call the Valley home. All of these talented guys have been playing for years; together, they have more than 100 years of musical experience! You will never leave a show disappointed. Steven and the Southern Knights play a variety of music that will have you up on your feet dancing and asking for more. They play everything from two-stepping tunes to shuffles, waltzes, line dances, polkas, rock ‘n’ roll, and good old belly-rubbing favorites. There’s something for everyone at their performances. You will hear songs that send you running for the dance floor, have you tapping with the beat, find you dancing in your chair, and get you singing along and even songs that will make you want to just sit back and enjoy the music and May’s velvety voice. Follow “Steven May” on Facebook to make sure you don’t miss any of the band’s shows this season and beyond. For bookings, contact May via email at Stevenmayandthesouthernknights@ hotmail.com or by phone at 956-3577860. •

Welcome Home WINTER TEXAN • December 31, 2025

January 28, 2026

11 AM - 4 PM Doors open at 10:30 am

PRESALE

TICKETS

$25

+ taxes & fees

Lunch included

2305 Laguna Blvd. South Padre Island 956-761-6406

Steven May & the Southern Knights

Justin Terry

Jayne’s Jukebox Junkie

Quentin Flagg

Cool Change

The Brothers Three

Buy tickets online at welcomehomergv.com For questions call (956) 687-5115

December 31, 2025 • Welcome Home WINTER TEXAN

Golden Age Olympics

2026

january 6 to february 20 ages 50+

today!

mcallenparks.net celendar of events

Let the Let the Good Good Times Times Roll! Roll! @McALLENPARKS | McALLENPARKS.NET 2001 Trophy Dr, McAllen, Texas | (956) 681-3320