••• your official connection to the rio grande valley •••
from kristi
And just like that, this is the last Welcome Home Winter Texan of the season! It has been a wonderful winter, and we have enjoyed sharing it with you!
your official connection
the
t’s the holiday season, and that means the next wave of our Winter Texan friends will be here soon! It’s time to celebrate, and we have several upcoming events in January that we hope you’ll make plans to attend.
And just like that, this is the last Welcome Home Winter Texan of the season! It has been a wonderful winter, and we have enjoyed sharing it with you!
And just like that, this is the last Welcome Home Winter Texan of the season! It has been a wonderful winter, and we have enjoyed sharing it with you!
And just like that, this is the last Welcome Home Winter Texan of the season! It has been a wonderful winter, and we have enjoyed sharing it with you!
I’d like to take this opportunity to invite you to stick around, to extend your stay for a few days, weeks, months... or even indefinitely! The fun keeps coming; we keep dancing, dining, and having fun all summer long, and we’d love to have you join us.
We kick the season off January 9-10 with our Entertainer Showcase, which is two days filled with entertainment. New this year are a limited number of general-admission tickets. Come and hear the talent that could come to an RV park near you!
I’d like to take this opportunity to invite you to stick around, to extend your stay for a few days, weeks, months... or even indefinitely! The fun keeps coming; we keep dancing, dining, and having fun all summer long, and we’d love to have you join us.
I’d like to take this opportunity to invite you to stick around, to extend your stay for a few days, weeks, months... or even indefinitely! The fun keeps coming; we keep dancing, dining, and having fun all summer long, and we’d love to have you join us.
I’d like to take this opportunity to invite you to stick around, to extend your stay for a few days, weeks, months... or even indefinitely! The fun keeps coming; we keep dancing, dining, and having fun all summer long, and we’d love to have you join us.
If you feel you must go, I’d like to invite you to help us spread the word about South Texas to everyone you meet along the way and those you see every day back home. Invite them to join you next season! We would love to have them join us. The more the merrier!
We follow the Showcase up with not one, but two, Winter Texan Expos! McAllen’s Expo will be January 16-17, we’ll be in Brownsville January 18. Admission to the Expos is free! So come on out and join us for a great time.
If you feel you must go, I’d like to invite you to help us spread the word about South Texas to everyone you meet along the way and those you see every day back home. Invite them to join you next season! We would love to have them join us. The more the merrier!
If you feel you must go, I’d like to invite you to help us spread the word about South Texas to everyone you meet along the way and those you see every day back home. Invite them to join you next season! We would love to have them join us. The more the merrier!
If you feel you must go, I’d like to invite you to help us spread the word about South Texas to everyone you meet along the way and those you see every day back home. Invite them to join you next season! We would love to have them join us. The more the merrier!
This September, we will host our second, not so annual (thanks to the pandemic), Winter Texan Reunion Tour, so we’d also like to invite you to join us at one of our stops. Stay tuned as we announce our travel plans.
Lastly, our Bayside Music Festival will be held at Louie’s Backyard January 24. Tickets are available. WARNING: We expect this to be a sold-out show.
This September, we will host our second, not so annual (thanks to the pandemic), Winter Texan Reunion Tour, so we’d also like to invite you to join us at one of our stops. Stay tuned as we announce our travel plans.
This September, we will host our second, not so annual (thanks to the pandemic), Winter Texan Reunion Tour, so we’d also like to invite you to join us at one of our stops. Stay tuned as we announce our travel plans.
This September, we will host our second, not so annual (thanks to the pandemic), Winter Texan Reunion Tour, so we’d also like to invite you to join us at one of our stops. Stay tuned as we announce our travel plans.
Rug Tufting in the RGV
Story and Photos by Eryn Reddell Wingert
Amy Canizales just goes for it. When she wanted to open a crafting studio in McAllen, she did. When she wanted to learn how to tuft rugs, she taught herself… then offered it as a class. When that took off, she opened a second studio devoted solely to the fuzzy craft.
grew, and so did the need for more space. She thought, “I’m just going to go for it, open a second location.”
You can find information on all of our events in our newspaper and on our website at welcomehomergv.com. We hope to see you at one--or all--of our events this season!
It has been a real pleasure to serve you this year. We will work throughout the summer months on all of our programming so next season will be even better than this one!
It has been a real pleasure to serve you this year. We will work throughout the summer months on all of our programming so next season will be even better than this one!
It has been a real pleasure to serve you this year. We will work throughout the summer months on all of our programming so next season will be even better than this one!
It has been a real pleasure to serve you this year. We will work throughout the summer months on all of our programming so next season will be even better than this one!
~We're just connecting the dots. •
Safe travels, Y’all! •
Safe travels, Y’all! •
Safe travels, Y’all! •
Safe travels, Y’all! •
Kristi
We’re just connecting the dots, Kristi
We’re just connecting the dots, Kristi
We’re just connecting the dots, Kristi
We’re just connecting the dots, Kristi
THANK YOU TO OUR 2023-2024
THANK YOU TO OUR 2021-2022 SEASON SPONSORS
THANK YOU TO OUR 2021-2022
Special to Welcome Home RGV
to Welcome Home RGV
Canizales founded Craft Social after the pandemic as a way to bring people back together, creating new, fun memories. The first studio, located inside the Mercado District on 23rd Street, offers classes for all ages--no skills required. She offers classes she enjoys, from seasonal gingerbread houses and ornament-making to fleece pillows and canvas-painting workshops.
In the history of rug making, which dates back 4,000 years, hand tufting is a more modern approach, according to rugartisan.com, developed in the late 1800s. Canizales says it’s also different than rug hooking or latch hook; it’s easier and faster, depending on the design.
THANK YOU TO OUR 2021-2022
After Canizales took on rug tufting, she realized it wasn’t being offered in the area, so she added it to the calendar. “I just love being different!” she says. Interest
THANK YOU TO OUR 2021-2022
It seems like only yesterday we were celebrating the long-awaited return of so many of our friends. Now, here we are bidding you farewell and safe travels. All of us at Welcome Home RGV look forward to your return. Plans are
It seems like only yesterday we were celebrating the long-awaited return of so many of our friends. Now, here we are bidding you farewell and safe travels. All of us at Welcome Home RGV look forward to your return. Plans are
It seems like only yesterday we were celebrating the long-awaited return of so many of our friends. Now, here we are bidding you farewell and safe travels. All of us at Welcome Home RGV look forward to your return. Plans are
It seems like only yesterday we were celebrating the long-awaited return of so many of our friends. Now, here we are bidding you farewell and safe travels. All of us at Welcome Home RGV look forward to your return. Plans are
Designs are transferred onto a stretched canvas or backing; a mechanical tufting tool is threaded with yarn, which is punched through the canvas as the artist follows the design lines. The yarn forms loops on the opposite side; once complete, the loops are sheared or trimmed, depending on the desired effect.
FAREWELL WINTER TEXAN SEASON CONTINUED ON PAGE 4 >>
FAREWELL WINTER TEXAN SEASON CONTINUED ON PAGE 4 >>
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•••
to
rio grande valley •••
FROM KRISTI
FROM KRISTI
••• your official connection to the rio grande valley •••
FROM KRISTI
••• your official connection to the rio grande valley •••
FROM KRISTI
The studio accommodates eight crafters. Classes begin with a 15-minute tutorial; selection of yarn from the wall-of-yarn, home to 60 color options; and a test run on a sample canvas to get the feel of the tufting tool before creating your own rug.
Once the tufting part is done, the canvas is trimmed, glued, and sealed with a backing. During each
step of the process, Canizales offers further demonstrations and support. “I’ve always been the type of person who enjoys seeing other people having a good time,” she says, a statement supported by her beaming smile.
For more information visit craft-social.square.site/rug-tufting or call 956-467-0937. •
Publisher
Kristi Collier kristi@welcomehomergv.com
Administration
Amie Gray agray@welcomehomergv.com
Event Manager
Anne Marie Martin events@welcomehomergv.com
Business Development
Leigh Woolridge leigh@welcomehomergv.com
Chris Leadbetter chris@welcomehomergv.com
Travel Division
Kristy Meyer travel@welcomehomergv.com
Sarah Denzer sarah@welcomehomergv.com
Stella Riester stella@welcomehomergv.com
Accounting
Angela Blanchard accounting@welcomehomergv.com
Editor
Chris Ardis news@welcomehomergv.com
Graphic Design
Affinity Media Consulting LLC
Content Creator / Photographer
Eryn Reddell Wingert eryn@welcomehomergv.com
Promotional Division
Elizabeth Seal elizabeth@welcomehomergv.com
Cristi Klostermann promotions@welcomehomergv.com
Sabina Adames sabina@welcomehomergv.com
Activity Coordinator
Fran Adams fran@welcomehomergv.com
We Winter Texans! Calendar
Submissions!
For more information on submitting your events and activities, please email: calendar@welcomehomergv.com The deadline for submission is Fridays at 5:00pm the week prior. • •
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 today at: info@welcomehomergv.com
Follow Us on Social Media!
Welcome Home RGV has several ways to join the action on social media.
Our WHRGV Facebook page is dedicated to community events and information that will appeal to people of all ages. Our Winter Texan page is more specific to our Winter Texan target market.
www.facebook.com @whrgv @wintertexan
www.youtube.com
Find on YouTube Channel “Welcome Home Rio Grande Valley”
www.instagram.com @welcomehomergv @wintertexans
219 W. Nolana • McAllen, TX 78504 956-687-5115
4 Seasons Generously Gives to Brownsville Kids
by Ric Cavazos
A
uctioneer Bruce Henderson is playfully kicking a volleyball, like a soccer player, with the residents of 4 Seasons RV Resort ready to bid on a would-be Christmas gift.
“Let’s get the bidding started on this bouncing ball!” Henderson calls out to the residents, as he transitions to mimicking a volleyball player in hitting the ball upward with his hands.
The winning bid will not result in the soccer ball staying at 4 Seasons, with the same being said for the dozens of other toys, bicycles, and stuffed animals lined up behind the auctioneer. It’s all part of the yearly fundraiser and auction at 4 Seasons, an annual event at the Brownsville RV Park since 1982. All of the toys, which were purchased by 4 Seasons residents, and the money paid for them during the auction, will be donated to the Brownsville Police Department.
The toys donated by 4 Seasons will in turn be given by the PD to children residing in Brownsville’s lower-income neighborhoods. The funds raised during the auction will go to the PD’s dedicated holiday fund to buy Brownsville children Christmas gifts.
“This is the most important event for our park every year,” said Joanna
Keller, who manages 4 Seasons with her husband, Dave.
The enthusiasm and hearty holiday cheer were evident during the December 8 auction as park residents made their bids. Henderson used a lively sense of humor to keep the bids going as he went from item to item. PD Commander Robert Martinez and three of his officers were on hand and were treated to a soup supper as the bids came in during an early Friday evening.
“They show a lot of kindness for our kids,” Martinez said of the 4 Seasons residents. “What they do in giving back to the community is so important to our city. They may not be originally from here, but they’re part of the community.”
The residents of 4 Seasons donated $7000, and toys, to the PD in 2022. Judging by the volume of toys and spirited bidding on December 8, 4 Seasons may well have topped that amount in 2023. The event’s founders were Gloria Laney, Frank Rose, and Bea Newhouse.
“It’s wonderful to see the smiles on the faces of the kids when they receive their gifts,” said Mary Kaye Derring, a 4 Seasons resident and activity director at the park. “It’s something that’s really important to us. We talk it up at our meetings and everyone joins in to help.” •
Nativity Scene Collection on Exhibit This Holiday Season
Special to Welcome Home Winter Texan
T he Museum of South Texas History will feature the Bishop Emeritus Raymundo Peña Nativity Scene Collection, a spotlight exhibit displaying 120 nativity scenes, until Sunday, January 7, 2024. The
exhibit is included in the regular Museum admission fee.
Born in 1934 and ordained as a Catholic priest in 1957, Father Raymundo Peña was named Bishop in the Diocese of Brownsville in 1976. Upon his passing in September 2021, the Bishop willed his
collection of nativity scenes to the Museum of South Texas History and to the Historic Brownsville Museum.
For many years, Bishop Peña displayed the nativity scenes yearround. He considered them not just a seasonal theme but a reminder of God’s divine love. He enjoyed sharing them with those who visited, using them as a medium through which to express his faith. Inspired visitors often gifted Bishop Peña with additional nativity scenes.
During the inaugural year of putting the collection on display, 88-year-old Daria Martínez Ramírez walked into the museum to celebrate Fiesta de Nochebuena with her daughter, Alicia Cardoza, but was immediately drawn to the nativity scenes.
“I knew Bishop Peña since the 1970s,” she said. “I got to know him through the years, and I knew about these nativity scenes.”
A tireless advocate for immigrants and the poor, Bishop Peña lived by a personal
creed that became his motto: “Do everything with love.” With that love, the museum showcases the collection throughout the month of December and into early January 2024, with a special Día de los Reyes celebration Saturday, January 6, 2024. The Museum of South Texas History is in downtown Edinburg at 200 North Closner Boulevard on the Hidalgo County Courthouse square.
For more information on the exhibit, please contact Exhibits and Collections coordinator Melissa Peña at mjpena@mosthistory.org or 956-383-6911. Visit mosthistory. org/events for the latest information. May we all love each other this holiday season. Happy Holidays from the Museum of South Texas History. •
Spotted in the RGV
Piñatas
by Eryn Reddell Wingert
You might be surprised to learn this little donkey piñata ornament has a fa scinating history. According to merriam-webster.com the first use of the word was documented in 1868 as a vessel filled with treats or gifts. However, an article in culturacolectiva.com cites an unclear historic origin--either Chinese during
the ex plorations of Marco Polo or pre-Columbian, when Aztecs created feather-clad clay pots for celebrations. Modernly, candy-filled piñatas are part of various milestone and religious celebrations. And, according to pinatas.com, the donkey or burro piñata symbolizes the one that carried Mary to Jerusalem. •
Hello Travel Friends
Book It to Welcome Home RGV Website for Travel
Hello Travel Friends, Bus trips make traveling that much easier. When you book a bus trip with me, you're trading the stresses of driving and parking for fun and games. All you need to do is get there on time, and I'll take care of the rest. Whether it's a quick day trip or an overnight adventure, I'm sure you'll love the ease of traveling with us.
Check out all of the fun bus trips we have on the calendar for you to book at welcomehomergv.com. •
~Sarah Denzer
Perspectives Consider the Birds
by Paula Key, chaplain’s wife
Special to Welcome Home Winter Texan
I miraculously found this post today, dated January 2021, from my precious daughter-in-law, Kristy Key, while looking at pictures on another person’s Facebook page! After reading it, I knew it was for us in the RGV who are blessed with birds innumerable. Please enjoy and let it encourage you as it has me.
I had a hard time this summer mentally. The idea of a pandemic really rocked me to my core--suddenly, there was an illness killing people that seemed targeted for someone like me. (I have asthma.) I had so much to live for--my little Lena is only 9. What would she do if I weren’t here?
I started praying--a lot--and one of the verses that always grabbed me was from Jesus about birds. I was so drawn to God’s care for even these tiny, frail, short-lived creatures. Tiny sparrows, even! Jesus said, ‘Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground outside your Father's care. And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. So don't be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.’
Matthew 10:29-31
I love this next verse the best because it mentions Ravens--‘Consider the ravens, for they neither sow nor reap; they have no storeroom nor barn, and yet God feeds them; how much more valuable you are than the birds!’ Luke 12:24
I kept that verse so close to my heart and literally repeated it throughout the day. I thought of how God sent ravens to feed Elijah, and He sent Elijah to minister to a single mom and heal her young son. Who even does that? He cares for even the least of us all.
It seemed every time I saw a bird, I recalled God’s love for us. Then, I really started seeing birds and became so fascinated with them, and as I drew my attention towards God’s natural world, I realized--I was healing from my anxiety, from my worry, from fear.
The more I chase birds, the more I chase God, too. I still get anxiety; I still struggle and I miss our old ways of life before COVID, but let me tell you how much peace I have just chasing birds in the woods--more than I ever thought possible just a few months ago.
The kind of peace that surpasses all understanding.
Paula Key is the wife of Chaplain Dennis Key who serves at Winter Ranch RV Resort in Alamo. They are with Christian Resort Ministries, which provides non-denominational worship services in RV resorts throughout the RGV. You may contact the Keys at offdkey@yahoo.com or at pkey2010@yahoo.com (Paula). You may also contact Christian Resort Ministries at crmintl.org regarding opportunities to serve in your community. •
A Balcony View of Charles Dickens and Friends
by Sarah Denzer, Tours by Welcome Home tour manager
P
icture yourself stepping off a tour bus to find 100-percent humidity, the scent of sea water, and a slight chill in the air and seeing everyone around you dressed in Victorian England, 19th century outfits. Where are you? It must be the first weekend in December, and you have just arrived in Galveston for Dickens on the Strand. This year was the 50th anniversary of the historic festival, and Tours by Welcome Home RGV took a bus of 28 people to enjoy the fun.
“We had so much fun; we’re already planning our outfits to come again next year!” said Sandra Weaver. Arriving in Galveston Friday evening, the group started the weekend with a holiday handbell concert at the 1859 St. Joseph’s Church.
“The church, the handbells, the company--this concert was a real highlight for me,” one attendee explained. The Jubilation Ringers introduced the audience to different techniques and rhythms they use and played holiday classics like “Jingle Bells” and “Carol of the Bells.”
Saturday was filled with choirs, bagpipes, ballet performances, orchestras, poets, and other live performers. Tourgoers could choose their own schedule and had the chance to see what interested them the most during the festival. One tour attendee said, “I loved having no set schedule during the festival. We had time to wander on our own.”
A major highlight of the festival was the parade. Highlighted in the parade were famous faces like Queen Victoria, Father Christmas, Edgar Allen Poe, and even Charles Dickens himself!
“I’m so happy to see so many patrons at my festival … of course, I have yet to see a penny from this massive undertaking. I do
have several hundred great great grandchildren I need to look after,” Charles Dickens joked.
The Welcome Home RGV tour included a VIP ticket, with access to a private bar, seating, restrooms, and access to the balcony overlooking the entire festival. This was a prime parade-viewing location that was the highlight of the day for many.
“Watching the parade from the balcony was just perfect. We loved it!” rejoiced Dot Zylstra. Other highlights on this tour included a visit to Moody Gardens Ice land and a historical bus tour with a local guide. When you’re on a tour with Welcome Home RGV everything from the movies on the bus to the main events and accommodations are taken care of and well thought out. A tour attendee had this to say about the trip, “This trip was excellent. Come and go with us next time. Great value for the money, lots of fun and low stress!” To stay up to date with tours offered by Welcome Home RGV visit our website welcomehomergv.com often. •
Special to Welcome Home Winter Texan
W hat a sweet time we have been blessed with this year. With all that is going on in the world, we have had the opportunity to join in with so many of y’all and send items of warmth and beauty all over the world! This time of year, we are just
Christmas Blessings
finishing up the last of 2023 by distributing items in time for Christmas. Hats will be going to an orphanage in Mexico and up into the Appalachian Mountains, scarves will be hitting the streets all across the country, blankets will make their way into many places without heat….and more.
We thank God for all of the loving hands that have made this possible. What a gift you are to so many. So as we celebrate Christmas, our prayers go with each item. May they be a comfort and encouragement to each recipient and a reminder that they are cared for.
Though it is the end of the year on the calendar, things never stop around here. We are looking forward to 2024 and all God has planned. After all, He already knows where all of those pretty hats are going. So all of you keep working away, and the Donation Chest will be ready for the first drop-offs in January.
Until holiday time, we are open Wednesday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. We want to avert any yarn emergencies, so FYI: For our holiday hours this Christmas, we will be closed December 23 through January 2.
The Lamb’s Loom will re-open January 3--with regular hours and lots of yarn fun--ready to go. Mark your calendar now for Yarn Tasting 2024, which begins January 10.
The Lamb’s Loom is at 1102 Tamarack Ave. in McAllen. Additional parking is available in the rear via
Avenue. Updates and other information are available on our website at thelambsloom.com
Until then…a very Merry Christmas to all! May your stitches be many and your tinks be few. Let’s continue to #stitchitforward together. We’re putting #loveineverystitch. •
Upas
ENTERTAINMENT • LIVE MUSIC • DOOR PRIZES
MCAllen Convention Center
Brownsville Event Center
January 17 & 16, 2024
9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
700 Convention Center blvd (CORNER OF WARE & EXPRESSWAY 83)
January 18, 2024 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM
1 Event Center, Paredes Line Rd. (BROWNSVILLE, TEXAS)
Canada Brings us Fresh Breath Winter Texan Expo Entertainers
Special to Welcome Home Winter Texan
Josh and Katie Pascoe are the soft-rock, husband-and-wife duo Fresh Breath from Ontario, Canada. Enlightened by influences like Fleetwood Mac, Tom Petty, and Alanis Morissette, the couple now—with over a decade of professional experience under their belt--find themselves touring across Canada and the U.S. in their DIY converted camper van.
Reaching from British Columbia to Prince Edward Island in 2022 and Texas in early 2023, Fresh Breath can be found performing at various venues throughout the Rio Grande Valley and South Padre Island this 2024 Winter Texan season. The pair is known for their mesmerizing on-stage connection, unique harmonies, and blazing guitar solos as they perform various cover songs from the 70s, 80s and 90s, along with their own catchy original music that fits right in their sets.
Their show Wednesday, January 17, at 11:00 a.m.at the Winter Texan Expo in McAllen, is not to be missed! They have recently been named finalists in three different categories (International Band of the Year, Entertainer of the Year, and Female Vocalist of the Year) in the International Singer-Songwriters Association Awards. They have also been nominated as 2023 Artist of the Year by Biz X Magazine . Their song “World Gone Crazy” placed as a semi-finalist in the Canadian Independent Music Video Awards in 2022. Fresh Breath recently released a new, full-length album, Through My Window.
Learn more on their website at freshbreathband.com, and see them in person January 17 at 11 a.m. at the McAllen Convention Center during the Winter Texan Expo. •
N aomi Bristow is a young artist who hails from a farm in Ontario, Canada. Growing up a country girl--and with her family involvement in rodeo life--led her down the path of traditional country western and gospel music. At a young age, she decided to take up the art of yodeling, which she taught herself from a book and cassette tape.
Bristow travels across North America to perform at fall fairs, jamborees, churches, and country festivals. She has made some impressive contributions to the industry, including opening for Gene Watson, David Frizzell, Ronda Vincent, Charlie Daniels, Marty Stuart, Jim Ed Brown, and many others.
Bristow has been in the music business for 15 years and has recorded 11 albums, some made in Nashville featuring duets with Grand Ole Opry stars Jim Ed Brown (The Browns) and Richard Sterban (bass singer of the Oak Ridge Boys), a Gospel CD with Vince Gill, and a Christmas CD with Whispering Bill Anderson. She has also been featured in the U.S. on RFD TV network on Midwest Country, Shotgun Red, and The Penny Gilley Show. In the spring of 2019, Bristow's video went viral and reached an incredible
14 million views on Facebook with her rendition of "Hallelujah.” She is proud to have 100+ show dates a year, including tours across Canada and winter tours in Texas and Florida.
See Bristow perform live at the McAllen Convention Center on day two of the Winter Texan Expo, Wednesday, January 17. She is scheduled to perform at 12:15 p.m. •
Things I Have Learned A somewhat random and reckless
look at life from a fairly old guy
by Bill Ward
T
oday is Someone’s Good Old Days Today’s Wisdom: You can't make the good old days come back just by painting pictures of them.
~ Norman Rockwell Remember the good old days? Mine were when I was in grade school, when my worries were minor and most of what I did each day was fun. Well, actually my good years were maybe more in high school and college, when life was an adventure and the future was starting to “clarify.”
Ya, but the early years of growing our family were fun, too. I was getting to know this person I woke up next to each morning, in addition to the little ones who magically appeared in our home every three years. Those were good years.
Hmmm. Maybe the good old days were when those kids were becoming real, capable people, and we watched them thrive into productive lives.
Actually, maybe the good old days were more those years when our towns were thriving, Main Street was full of growing businesses, the church was full of people on Sunday--people wearing suits and dresses--and we all went to the weekly band concerts in the summer.
I guess defining each of our good old days is kind of hard. It becomes a moving target. Perhaps, for some, there are even big gaps where there was nothing to define as good. But then, maybe they are all the good old days.
One of the things I have learned is that we all enjoyed happy times. When we remember the “good” part of the good old days, it is the positive emotion of the day we recall. We tend to stuff the negative deep down in the back of our memory. That doesn’t mean those
are gone, only that we don’t go digging around in them much anymore. We dig in the good old days, the ones in the old photo albums, the ones with stories that come up around the coffee table, and the adventures we tell the grandchildren about.
I miss the good old days, and sometimes I wish I could go back there. Then it occurs to me that someone else’s good days are right now, and here I am in the midst of them. I guess I might as well enjoy them too.
I’m just sayin’. •
Bill Ward is a retired health-care administrator from Minnesota and a regular columnist, author, and untalented rock ‘n’ roll musician, playing with the band Night Ryders. He winters at Casa Del Sol in Donna. You can contact Bill by email at bwward@charter.net.
Gladys Porter Zoo Giraffe, Rocket, Stars in Second Book
Special to Welcome Home Winter Texan
Rocket the Space Giraffe is embarking on a wild adventure in her new book, Wish Upon A Star, written by Suzanne Shepard and illustrated by Tilia Rand-Bell. Rocket’s Wish Upon A Star is available for purchase on Amazon and at the Gladys Porter Zoo gift shop. Proceeds from the book go
directly to the Gladys Porter Zoo for the care and feeding of Rocket and her animal friends.
Come along with Rocket the Space Giraffe and her best friend, Cosmo, a ring-tailed lemur, as they visit the planets, meet new friends and wish upon the stars. Join in on the fun
as they dance on the moon, land on Mars, and skate Saturn’s rings. Along the way, they learn that as long as you have love in your heart, no matter where you go, you are home.
Inspired by a real giraffe named Rocket at the Gladys Porter Zoo, the new book launched November 30 and was already listed as Amazon’s #1 New Release in Children’s Humorous Poetry. This rhyming book with its magical illustrations by award-winning illustrator Rand-Bell is sure to capture the hearts of many.
Best-selling local author Suzanne Shepard released the first book in the series, Rocket the Space Giraffe , last year, and it quickly became the #1 New Release in Children’s Zoo Books on Amazon.
“Rocket is such an incredible giraffe, and I’m excited to expand on the Rocket the Space Giraffe series. I hope that everyone enjoys the book and comes to the Zoo to meet the real Rocket,” says Shepard.
Rocket is a five-year-old giraffe at the Zoo in Brownsville. She is a friendly girl who is always the first to greet guests at the Giraffe Landing Feeding Experience and never turns down a leafy treat. Her outgoing nature is what first drew Shepard to her and where the idea for the books began.
For more information, visit gladysporterzoo.org. •
Siesta Village, Weslaco
$120,000
3 bedroom, 2 bath double wide mobile home on an owned lot. There are 2 living areas for plenty of entertaining room. Mostly furnished. Schedule you showing today. Tami Smith, TREC713591, MHSLSP00044829, (956) 274-9161
McAllen Mobile Park, McAllen
$16,500
Have I got the PERFECT place for YOU!! This 1 bedroom/1 bathroom built in 2000 is fully furnished and 100% turn key ready and even includes plate ware, glassware, and silverware! The outdoor patio is the perfect spot to enjoy warm South Texas breezes with neighbors and friends. Curt Riester, TREC771832, MHSLSP00047858, (956) 455-4195
Hidden Valley Ranch, Mission
$112,000
Looking for a diamond in the rough?
Behold this rare find! This 18’ wide mobile home (year 2000) showcases a front-facing eat-in kitchen with ample storage and counter space overlooking the spacious living room and its high decorative ceilings. Heather Escobedo, TREC686290, MHSLSP00048506, (956) 271-3683
FEATURED LISTINGS
This 1/1 RV Porthome with spacious eat in kitchen and large utility room has plenty of room for all the necessities and is the perfect place for you to enjoy the Texas Tropics. You’ll love the.10’ ceilings and covered parking w/ FHU for your RV. Carol Kerr Welch, TREC540183, MHSLSP00048089, (956) 900-8487
2 Bedroom, 2 Bath home nestled on corner lot in Wagon City So. Maintenance free exterior. New Double Pane Windows, New Flooring, & Brand-new Generac Gas Generator. SOOO many upgrades (2022 & 20223) to list in this ad. (Ask your realtor for a copy of the upgrade list). Gail Gallagher TREC797370, MHSLSP00048999, (816) 916-5583
We found it! The perfect home for you! This 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home sits on an oversized corner lot and includes a one car garage. The seller installed a new roof and hardy plank siding. Heather Escobedo, TREC686290, MHSLSP00048506, (956) 271-3683
The RV lot has FHUs and a furnished coach house with a bath with shower. There’s plenty of room for guests, entertaining, hobbies or just relaxing and watching TV. Come enjoy winters in the Texas Tropics. HOA fee includes landscape maintenance. Carol Kerr Welch, TREC540183, MHSLSP00048089, (956) 900-8487
A MUST SEE! Brand New 2 bed 2 bath 2022 Legacy Home (1050 sqft per Mfr Specs). So much room for entertaining or just enjoying life on your covered porch. This home is in the active, gated 55+ community of Sunset Palms RV & MH Park. Gail Gallagher, TREC797370, MHSLSP00048999, (816) 916-5583
Siesta Retirement Village
2 bed, 2 bath mobile on leased lot. Kitchen has been updated with all new counter and cabinets. A garage was added last year. There has been a metal roof added. Tami Smith, TREC713591, MHSLSP00044829, (956) 274-9161
GOTTA SEE this large 1665 sqft 2 bed/2 bath home is located on the golf course with a wonderful view of the 4th hole. Spacious primary has room for king bed and both bedrooms have new tile flooring. An updated kitchen with breakfast nook with bay windows and a screened in porch round out the upgrades. Curt Riester, TREC771832, MHSLSP00047858, (956) 455-4195
1 Brm, 1 Bath 1985 Carri Lite Park Model with Texas Room, Car Port & Shed gives you 924 sq. ft. of living space. Unit comes with two A/C units, new Refrigerator & Stove. Centrally located across from Park Office, Pool, and most community amenities available in this cozy 55+ community of Split Rail RV Park. Gail Gallagher, TREC797370, MHSLSP00048999, (816) 916-5583
Nice updated 1 bed, 1 bath mobile home on an owned lot. New plumbing and wiring and also new flooring. There has been a tankless hot water heater added. Enjoy the evening out in the screened in patio. Tami Smith, TREC713591, MHSLSP00044829, (956) 274-9161
Retama Village, Mission
Sunset Palms RV & MH Park
Presale tickets $25.00 Lunch included 24 January Louie’s Backyard 2305 Laguna Blvd. South Padre Island 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM Doors open at 10:30
DANCE JAM SESSIONS MEALS SALES ENTERTAINMENT & SHOWS
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 20, 2023
Y-Cook Cafe, 7:00 AM, Bentsen Grove Resort Palmview (956) 585-7011
Holiday Village Brownsville, 8:00 AM, Dean Porter Park Brownsville
PLUS Dance, 10:00 AM, Tropic Star RV Resort Pharr (956) 787-5773 $5
3-M Get Together & Friends, 10:30 AM, Victoria Palms RV Resort Donna (612) 916-9236
Country Music Jam , 1:00 PM, Heritage Square Mission (956) 580-3530
Open Jam Session, 1:00 PM, Bit-O-Heaven RV and MH Resort Donna (603) 396-2786
Riverside Dreamer River Tour, 1:00 PM, Riverside Club Mission (956) 581-4477
Rock & Roll Jam , 1:00 PM, Wagon City North Mission (956) 683-5888
Happy Hour w/Carlos Canas, 3:00 PM, Leisure World Weslaco (956) 968-8412 Pass the Hat
Happy Hour w/Night Howlers , 3:00 PM,
L ooking 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 by listing entertainment events, dances, meals, jam sessions, meetings, and even garage sales. For more information on submitting your events and activities, please email calendar@welcomehomergv.com. The deadline for submission is Fridays at 5:00pm the week prior. •
Victoria Palms RV Resort Donna (956) 782-3263 Pass the Hat
Karaoke, 3:00 PM, Bluebonnet RV Resort
Mission (720) 253-8608
Denim & Lace, 3:30 PM, Paradise South RV
Resort Mercedes (956) 565-2044
Biscuit/Sausage Gravy & Pancake
Supper, 4:30 PM, Big Valley RV Park
Donna (956) 464-4159 $7
Diego & Edith, 6:00 PM, Southern Comfort RV Resort Weslaco (956) 968-3140 Pass the Hat
Southern Harmony Christmas Show , 6:00 PM, Enchanted Valley Ranch Mission (956) 519-8597 $15
PH II, III, IV RD Dance Party, 6:30 PM, Alamo Palms RV Resort Alamo (956) 787-7571
Dance w/Justin Terry, 7:00 PM, Llano Grande Resort and Golf Club Mercedes (956) 565-2638 $10
Island's Holiday Light Show , 7:00 PM, South Padre Island Entertainment District
Island's Holiday Light Show, 7:00 PM, South Padre Island Entertainment District South Padre Island Razz Ma Tazz, 7:00 PM, Tropic Star RV Resort Pharr (956) 787-5773
Rusty Rierson Christmas Show, 7:00 PM, San Juan Gardens San Juan (956) 7811082 $9 Cost for Admission
CONTINUED ON PAGE 20 >>
DANCE JAM SESSIONS MEALS SALES ENTERTAINMENT & SHOWS
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 22, 2023
Holiday Village Brownsville, 8:00 AM, Dean Porter Park Brownsville
PH II, III, IV RD Dance Party, 6:30 PM, Alamo Palms RV Resort Alamo (956) 787-7571
Anthony Hernandez Illusions, 7:00 PM, Pine to Palm Resort Park Weslaco (956) 968-5760
Dance w/Steven May & the Southern Knights , 7:00 PM, Tip O Texas RV Resort Pharr (956) 787-9959 $8
Goldwing Express , 7:00 PM, Bit-OHeaven RV and MH Resort Donna (603) 396-2786 $10
Island's Holiday Light Show , 7:00 PM, South Padre Island Entertainment District
December 20, 2023
AUTOMOTIVE
Class A Motorhome For Sale 2003
National Tradewinds Class A Motorhome. 39 ft. Excellent condition. 73420 mi. Generator, AC (2) New Batteries, W/D combo. Many Extras. Contact 360-5804149. Alamo, TX $75,500.00 $75000 Perry Clark (360) 580-4149
I'LL PAY CASH. for your mobile home, travel trailer, park model, fifth wheels. Call Jerry 956-929-3842. "I'LL MAKE YOU A GOOD DEAL!" $ Klaryssa (956) 432-5325
RV Rental On-site RV Rentals. Units are Permanently set up on Large Lots and Are Move-in Ready. Short and Long-term Rentals Available. 33' to 37' Travel Trailers w/slides. Floorplans vary. (956) 585-7630
2018 Rockwood 2604 WS TT - 30' This 30 foot camper is the perfect size for 2 people and a pet but it will easily sleep 4. Strengthened rear bumper, upgraded A/C unit to run on 110 $26996 Gregory Ellis (937) 564-9284
CONDOS & APARTMENTS
For Rent Beautiful townhome! 2 beds, each offering en-suite bath and walk-in closet. Kitchen w/ a microwave, refrigerator and stove! Private rear entry 2 car garage. Call to schedule a private showing today! $2000 (956)459-5680
Wrap around Porch Park Models Retirement living w/golf at your doorstep. River Bend Resort & Golf Club in Brownsville TX today. Carol Kerr Welch, TREC540183, MHSLSP00048089 956-900-8487
Alamo Country Club (55+ Community) Furnished! On golf course! New quartz countertops, white kitchen cabinets. New plank-style floors. 2Brm/2Baths. Big MBrm. Tom 651.703.7154 $198000 Tom Shanahan 651.703.7154 OR shanahan.tom@gmail.com
House & Apartment Rental House: 2 bed, 1 bath, Living room, dining room, garage, laundry room. $50/day, no electricity charge. Apartment: 1 bed, 1 bath, Living Room, laundry room. $25/day, no electricity charge. $350 (956) 585-7630
Buil d your Winter get-away! 6,250 square foot lot in Alamo Country Club. $30,000 Curt Riester, TREC771832, MHSLSP00047858, (956) 455-4195
MANUFACTURED HOMES
MOBILE HOME FOR SALE (2 BDRM/2 BATH)
2006 mobile home in Rio Valley Estates, Weslaco. 2 bed/2 bath, large kitchen, bar and table eating areas, spacious living room. Large, 14’ X 60’ carport awning w/ new sun screening, small porch/deck, 8’ X 10’ storage shed. Fully furnished. Text or call 830-613-0078.
$69,500 cash, no owner finance.
Sunset Palms RV & MH Park 2 bed 2 bath 2022 Legacy Home (1050 sqft per Mfr Specs). Active, gated 55+ community of Sunset Palms RV & MH Park. Gail Gallagher, TREC797370, MHSLSP00048999, (816) 916-5583 $94900
Adobe Wells, McAllen BACK ON MARKET! 2 bed/2 bath home 1278 sqft large primary w/ private bath. Texas Room PLUS separate workshop/ storage area! Assumable VA loan!
14x52 Mobile Home For Sale Countryside MH Park, 55+ community/Donna. 2-bdrm/1-bath. Recently remodeled doors, windows, flooring and new water lines. Exterior painted, insulated underbelly. Includes carport and 10x13 shed. $40,000 (641)295-5063 or (956) 464-3834
Texan Mobile Park This 1 bed, 1 Bath (1972) 12X46 Skyline Waco Buddy. Great home for the right handy man. Partially furnished. Schedule your showing today. $10,500 Gail Gallagher, TREC797370, MHSLSP00048999, (816) 916-5583
14 x 48 Mini Mobile Home 14 x 48 mini mobile home 2 bed/1 bath, fully furnished and move in ready! Sub flooring and indoor flooring
replaced, central air conditioning and heat, new laminate flooring and carpet. $18500 Bonnie Dominguez, MHSLSP00045160, (956) 434-6112
Used Manufactured Home Large 1 bed 1 bath Manufactured Home. 840 square feet. 20x30 Bonus room, 2 double carports large workshop. Central AC/Heat. Comes w/ some furniture, a refrigerator, stove, washer and dryer. (956) 585-4833
MISCELLANEOUS/OTHER
Brothers Innvois 6000D embroidery machine Brothers does it all embroidery machineLots of accessories: arm, hoops, discs, thread, books etc $1,500 Barbara (612)282-8052
PARK MODELS
Split Rail RV Park & Resort 1 Brm, 1 Bath 1985 Carri Lite Park Model Texas Room, Car Port & Shed. 2 A/C units, new Refrigerator & Stove. 55+ community of Split Rail RV Park. $12000 Gail Gallagher, TREC797370, MHSLSP00048999, (816) 916-5583
Alamo Palms RV Resort Beautiful, 1 bed/1bath w/ Texas Room and separate laundry room. New gas stove, new seamless gutters, FULLY FURNISHED! 55+ Community $38500 Curt Riester, TREC771832, MHSLSP00047858, (956) 455-4195
RV LOTS & SITES
Lamplighter Mobile Park, Palmview 2 lots w/combined Sqft of 3,995, utility room, storage shed, 2 carports, RV port! RV port is equipped w/ full hookups w/ 50 amp service and the port measures 11ft wide, 13'6 ft high, and 40 ft long. $54900 Heather Escobedo, TREC686290, MHSLSP00048506, (956) 271-3683
SERVICES
Repair RV 4 Button Thermostat or Aqua Hot Controller Repair service for Dometic 4 Button Thermostat or Webasto Controller box. CALL Jim at 308-440-5154 to discuss. www. FrerichsElectronics.com
WANTED
Now Hiring - Servers Bartenders and kitchen help. Part-time/full-time, Sundays only. Riverside Club, 214 East Chimney Road, Mission. Call Jennifer (956) 581-1033
WANTED
Housekeeping General housekeeping duties for resort. Public buildings, restrooms and other duties as required. 956-597-6900, ext 1
WANTED
NOW Hiring all positions Position available are:Beverage cart attendant- Part timeCart attendant- Part timeCook- Part time MaintenanceFull time 956-336-0905
Heart of the Valley Farmers Market Vendor Looking for Winter Texan vendors for monthly farmers market in Donna. Email donnafmmarket@gmail.com
Landscaping, housekeeping Work Campers needed in landscaping and housekeeping areas 956-585-0541
Looking to buy or sell? Need a volunteer, a job, or part-time help? Or are you looking for a way to promote your business? Let us connect the dots, add your classified on our website at welcomehomergv.com or scan the QR code below.
Publisher’s notice: All real estate advertised herein is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act, which makes it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation, or discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin, or intention to make any such preference, limitation, or discrimination.” We will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. All persons are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised are available on an equal opportunity basis. Equal Housing Opportunity. For more detailed information, photos and more on classifieds, visit our website. A $7 fee must be paid weekly.
