nd 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!
Let me make you smile. It’s hard to forget this tune, and it’s actually a great explanation for the thinking behind Welcome Home RGV’s Entertainers Showcase. We understand it can be difficult to watch a YouTube video or listen to a recording and determine whether the performer would be a great fit for your park or resort.
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.
At the Entertainers Showcase, those performers are live, offering park managers, activity directors, and residents the chance to see the talented performers out there and to book them.
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.
This face-to-face interaction and networking are the driving forces behind everything we do at WHRGV. While emails, phone calls, and Zoom meetings serve their purpose, they can’t compare to being together in the same room to collaborate, entertain, educate, meet, and just have fun.
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!
Another great thing about the Entertainers Showcase is that it allows talented singers, comedians, magicians, and other artists an opportunity to introduce themselves, entertain you, and make you smile!
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.
Look through this issue of Welcome Home Winter Texan, and you’ll see all of the opportunities you have to be entertained throughout the season. Whether it’s arts and crafts, museums, dances, jam sessions, pickleball, RC car racing, shuffleboard, tours around Texas, volunteering, happy hour, or hanging out on South Padre Island you’re seeking, you’ll find it!
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.
Showcasing Talent
Special to Welcome Home RGV
Enjoy every moment you’re in the real South Texas—the Rio Grande Valley. Welcome Home RGV is doing everything we can to help you do so!
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!
I hope to see you out and about, being entertained and smiling.
Safe travels, Y’all! •
Safe travels, Y’all! •
Safe travels, Y’all! •
Safe travels, Y’all! •
We’re just connecting the dots…•
We’re just connecting the dots, Kristi
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 2021-2022 SEASON SPONSORS
James Kropenske of South Dakota is a real music guy (plays guitar, sings, and coordinates jam sessions), which comes in handy as the activity director for Chimney Park in Mission. He was one of approximately 400 attendees at Welcome Home RGV’s recent Entertainers Showcase. The Showcase, designed to be an immersive opportunity for local RV park and resort activity directors to cull entertainment, took place at the Harlingen Municipal Auditorium for the second time.
THANK YOU TO OUR 2021-2022
THANK YOU TO OUR 2021-2022
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
Sixty entertainers--including a ventriloquist,
magicians, singers, tap dancers, and bands--took to the stage over the course of the two-day event. Each performer was allotted nine minutes to wow the audience. Afterwards, each act was made available to discuss bookings for upcoming Winter Texan seasons. Kropenske, a self-proclaimed critic, has been using a report-card-style system for selecting talent for years. He looks for: interaction with the audience, stage presence, sound quality, vocals, and, instrumentation.
FAREWELL WINTER TEXAN SEASON CONTINUED ON PAGE 4 >>
WINTER TEXAN SEASON CONTINUED ON PAGE 4 >>
FAREWELL WINTER TEXAN SEASON CONTINUED ON PAGE 4 >>
FAREWELL WINTER TEXAN SEASON CONTINUED ON PAGE 4 >>
••• your official connection to the rio grande valley •••
Special to Welcome Home RGV
••• your official connection to the rio grande valley •••
••• your official connection to the rio grande valley •••
FROM KRISTI
••• your official connection to the rio grande valley •••
FROM KRISTI
Story and photos by Eryn Reddell Wingert
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
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
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”
“When they hit the top marks in all those categories, they get an A+,” he says.
The Showcase is a peek at the wide array of local and visiting acts in the Rio Grande Valley.
“It’s an incredibly well-kept secret--except among the Winter Texan community--the caliber of talent available in South Texas,” says Kristi Collier, president and CEO of Welcome Home RGV. Kropenske echos that sentiment. He even does his part to add to the talent pool by recommending the Valley to entertainers he encounters outside the area. “So many of them don’t know what goes on down here; it's a music mecca.”
Movin’ Melvin Brown is one of the artists Kropenske has sent our way. Brown took to the stage on day one, chuckling, obviously having fun even before his nineminute timer began. It's the joy
by Eryn Reddell Wingert
This whimsical mural is located on the San Fernando Building in downtown Brownsville. The Brownsville Heritage Trail marker explains that one half of the building was built in 1877
that comes from doing what you love.
“My purpose is to make help people be happy,” says Brown.
“When I get on stage and I see people smile, I’m doing my job.”
That’s exactly what he did as he sang, chuckled, and tap danced.
While Kropenske thoughtfully coordinated bookings for the next Winter Texan season, performers continued to take the stage, some making their first Showcase appearance, like Sandra Harmon of Llano Grande Resort in Mercedes.
Harmon, who has opened for the Laura Ingles Pageant in South Dakota performing songs “Pa” played on his fiddle, attended the Showcase with a plan to expand her appearances beyond her resort. A versatile singer, covering an array of genres. (She even yodels!),
Harmon’s passion matches that of Brown’s. “I love it,” she says, beaming. “I live for it.”
The Entertainers Showcase was non-stop entertainment, booking, and networking. In a brief moment, after performing and before meeting awaiting activity directors, Tom “Mezzie” Hiles of the duo Can-Am summed up his Showcase experience in his signature husky voice: “It’s awesome!” •
Orange Grove RV Park Helps Santa Deliver Lots of Toys
Special to Welcome Home Winter Texan For over 40 years, the residents of Orange Grove RV Park in Edinburg have been collecting toys for children in the area who might otherwise not know the joy of opening Christmas gifts. Every year, firefighters and other em -
ployees from the Edinburg Fire Department pay a visit to Orange Grove to pick up the toys and then distribute them according to “Santa’s list.”
The last few years, Orange Grove residents have held a ben -
efit meal, using the donations they receive to buy additional toys. This year, they collected over $1700 and added the toys they were able to purchase to the load of toys already donated by residents.
David Hensley offers this note of gratitude: “Thank you to all of the volunteers in our Park for all of your help and support to make this a success!” •
FEBRUARY
World Shuffleboard Championship Set for San Benito Fall 2024
Special to Welcome Home Winter Texan
M
ark your calendars! The 41st World Championship Shuffleboard Tournament is set for October 27 to November 1 at Fun-N-Sun Resort in San Benito. The annual tournament has previously taken place in Florida, Ontario, Canada, Brazil, and Austria.
Fun-N-Sun expects over 100 participants from 10 different countries, with the majority of the participants coming from right here in the Rio Grande Valley. It is also expected that the large shuffleboard community in the Valley will want to watch the high level of competition right here in their own back yard!
The Tournament coordinators are calling out for volunteers and sponsors. The bulk of the work for the event will happen in the coming weeks.
This event is projected to bring upwards of $100,000 to area businesses, including hotel reservations, lunch, dinner, and transportation contracts.
Special to Welcome Home Winter Texan
It seems, as kids, we just did not outgrow Show-n-Tell time! Ev-er-y-day at The Lamb’s Loom in McAllen, we love seeing and sharing what everyone is working on, and y’all are welcome to join in. Show-n-Tell is fun and always helps spark another project idea to add to your list.
There are first-time projects, gifts for family and friends, and projects for the Donation Chest. Our friend Susan made this beautiful blanket using one of our yarns called DK Tweed. She made this for a fundraiser at one of our local high schools. It was a real treat to watch her work on it and then bring it in so everyone could see the finished product. A labor of love, it is just beautiful!
Join us for at The Lamb’s Loom for Show-n-Tell Time
Celine, one of our fantastic shepherds, made this really cute baby blanket for our Donation Chest. The blanket was made using Universal Yarn’s Uptown Worsted Hues. The colors just seem to melt all over the pattern. It is super soft, and no matter what part of the world it goes to, this blanket will certainly make some little one very happy and cuddly.
Another kind of yarn we have comes right in the front door from friends who want to help out with this ministry but may not know how to knit, crochet, or loom. We often get donations of yarn because someone is moving and just will not have the room, or they found their great grandma’s stash under the bed.
Well, our wonderful volunteers separate and sort the yarn before combing through project ideas. We promise to honor these yarn donations and use them in the best way possible. They may be worked up into a blanket, hat, or shawl or used in our classroom to teach and pass on the craft.
You are always welcome to join in our day and soak up some of the joy of Show-n-Tell with us. You know there’s always a comfy chair waiting for you, so come
by any time and chillax with us. The Lamb’s Loom is located at 1102 Tamarack in McAllen. We are open Wednesday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Additional parking is available in the rear via Upas Avenue. Updates and other information are available on our website at thelambsloom.com
Let’s continue to #stitchitforward together. We’re putting #loveineverystitch. •
Things I Have Learned A somewhat random and reckless look at life from a fairly old guy
by Bill Ward Forty-two Seconds of Fame
T oday’s Wisdom : Fame means millions of people have the wrong idea of who you are ~Erica Jong
I recently had the unique and bizarre experience of being videoed for a television news story. It was both interesting, and a bit unnerving.
First of all, there was no script. If there had been, I probably wouldn’t have remembered it, anyway. I had to make it up as I went, while the interviewer asked me questions. Even though I knew we could edit, I was thinking, “Don’t say something stupid.”
I think it went OK, but the most unsettling thing was that much of the time I was talking, the cameraman was standing right next to me with his $70,000, high-definition camera, with its big fat lens about
14 inches from my face. This was news, not theater. There was no makeup girl. There was no one combing my hair into place. It was just me in my full “old man” glory. I was thinking, “Well, I hope I at least shaved well this morning.”
We spent about two hours together, and he had at least 30 minutes of recording time of just me talking--or at least standing around looking important. When the story finally aired, there I was on TV for exactly 42 seconds, mostly broken up into segments of just several seconds each.
I think that’s kind of like life. We spend a lot of time among people--some good, some not so much. There are great moments and then some we would just as soon edit out and forget. Then, in the
end, someone else determines how we will be remembered, not with the sum total of our time on earth, but with small sound bites.
At funerals in my church, it is customary for family and friends to say a few nice things about the deceased. They are always positive. We all know they are editing. I suspect someone will say a few words at my funeral, too. It will all be nice. They, too, will edit. I’m happy about that.
I’m just sayin’. •
Bill Ward is a retired health-care administrator from Minnesota and a regular columnist, author, and untalented rock ‘n’
by Paula Key, chaplain’s wife
Green Flag or Red Flag? Being Led by Peace
Do you ever wonder which way to turn? What to do? Is this God’s will or not? Well, I found out that God has some pretty good guidance for us in His Word!
Here in Winter Ranch RV Resort, we have remote control car races every week, January through March, on our race track. As I was watching the races one day, I noticed they used flags to tell the drivers when to “Go” and when to “Stop.” The Lord began to show me that He also has ways to show us when to “Go” and when to “Stop.”
First off, He put Proverbs 3:6 on my mind. It reads, “In all your ways, acknowledge Him and He will direct your paths.” What we are acknowledging is His Lordship over our lives and our desire to follow Him. That’s a really good place to start! He then gave me Colossians 3:15 which, in the Amplified Version, reads, “Let the peace of God ‘rule’ in your heart,” and “act as an umpire calling what is ‘safe’ and what is ‘out,’” a footnote reads.
What I got from all of that and further study of the word “peace” was that Jesus is the Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9:6), and He will lead us by “Peace!” When we have peace about a decision we’ve made, it’s like a green flag, encouraging us to go forward and bringing rest in our hearts and minds. It’s like an inside confirmation we’re following God, and He approves of our decision. Peace comes when we make the right “call” or decision. Just like
an umpire calls what is “safe” or what is “out,” no peace means “Out!” and peace means “Safe!” Peace gives us boundaries to show us God’s will when we have put our will in neutral, only wanting God’s will whether to go or to stop.
We really thought of those racing flags when we drove to Henderson, Texas, to clean up our land and fences in order to lease it. When we arrived, we were shocked to see we could not even enter the land because of all of the downed trees from the storms that had passed though over the last two years. Talk about a red flag! We figured it would cost us at least $10,000 to clear the land and repair all the fences, so we said, “Lord, what are you trying to tell us?” He, right then and there, put it on our hearts to sell the land and give the profit to our son, who needed a better house. The most peaceful and excited feeling came over us, and we knew God was raising that green flag. To confirm it, God sold it the very next day after we put it up for sale.
Watch for those flags when you’re trying to make a decision. God wants to lead you by using peace as an umpire so you’ll make the right call. Is He raising the green flag to “Go” or the red flag to “Stop”?
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 con-
tact the Keys at offdkey@yahoo.com (Dennis) or pkey2010@yahoo.com (Paula). You may also contact Chris-
tian Resort Ministries at crmintl.org regarding opportunities to serve in your community. •
Historic Road Trip: South Texas Coastal Bend Texas Historical Commission
Special to Welcome Home Winter Texan
T he Texas coast stretches 350 miles, from South Padre Island to the Louisiana border, extending through a diverse array of towns, each with their own rich history. The southern portion of the coast--roughly 100 miles of shoreline between Rockport and South Padre Island--offers travelers a diverse range of heritage tourism opportunities.
Port Aransas
Initially referred to as Star, The Pass, Ropesville, and Tarpon, Port Aransas was officially named in 1911. The town preserves its past by maintaining its 19th-century historic architecture. Visitors can partake in many natural excursions, such as tarpon fishing, kayaking, and surfing. Along with its relaxed activities, Port Aransas offers historical experiences, making it an ideal tourist destination.
Cultural Attractions
Just across Aransas Bay in Rockport-Fulton, the ornate Fulton Mansion State Historic Site, deco-
rated with dark columns and trim, embodies the wealthy home life of the Fulton family. Luscious grass covers the perimeter of the house, and oak trees surround the sides. The house is filled with love, as well as interior gas lighting and flush toilets. George and Harriet Fulton bought their dream house in 1877 with profits from their ranching empire and spent their lives together in the mansion.
The La Salle Odyssey museums capture Robert Cavelier, Sieur de La Salle’s expedition to Texas, from its conception in France to the discovery of the remains of his ship La Belle. The infectious passion of the museum workers, details of the exhibits, and access to more knowledge from the displays and staff members make the visits worthwhile. In the early 2000s, the Texas Maritime Museum in Rockport joined the La Salle Odyssey project to show the daily life aboard La Belle. The artifacts range from navigational
(THC)
devices to medical instruments and a large wooden model of the ship encased in glass. The museum also includes reimagined exhibits, allowing visitors to experience the life of the French sailors and their navigation skills.
Natural Heritage
For a relaxing day, visit the CCC-constructed Goose Island State Park. Although visitors cannot swim at the park, they can camp, fish, hike, boat, and observe the wildlife.
The 1,620-foot-long fishing pier and boat, kayak, and canoe launch make fishing easily accessible.
Dining
Roosevelt’s is a classy, simply decorated restaurant connected to the historic Tarpon Inn. It serves traditional American dishes, such as the filet and seared ahi tuna--each packed with flavor. However, this upscale dining is on the expensive end. For a more affordable option, the restaurant will cook a visitor’s catch and serve it with julienned
vegetables for $20 a person.
Lodging
For a memorable experience in a charming seaside village, book a room at the historic Tarpon Inn, listed in the National Register of Historic Places. Built in 1886 with surplus lumber from Civil War barracks, this Port Aransas icon is an “inn” in every sense of the term, offering a slice of life in the late 1800s. Its old-fashioned style means there is no TV in any room (Wi-Fi service is available). The rooms are small, but the vintage beds and furniture are charmingly refreshing.
Another historic lodge that resembles the late 1800s is the Angel Rose. Originally a Victorian home, the Angel Rose is now a bed and breakfast. Maintaining much of the house’s integrity, the B&B only has three rooms. Angel Rose is a six-minute walk from the Texas Maritime Museum, but guests can rent bicycles for a faster (and more-scenic) option.
Corpus Christi
Corpus Christi harbors a long history. Initially an advantageous encampment location to secure the border at the Rio Grande, Corpus grew into the largest city in the THC’s Tropical Trail Region. It includes Victorian houses, expansive museums underscoring often-ignored historical events, and a designated Main Street District downtown. For marine archeology enthusiasts, Corpus exhibits 23 shipwreck collections.
Cultural Attractions
The Corpus Christi Museum of Science and History features educational exhibits emphasizing the Gulf Coast’s importance to the natural world. The museum’s noteworthy maritime exhibits showcase artifacts recovered from shipwrecks, including an exhibit featuring personal items of the sailors from French explorer Robert Cavelier, Sieur de La Salle’s ill-fated La Belle.
The massive USS Lexington looms large in the Corpus Christi Bay. Once the nation’s longest-serving aircraft carrier, this decommissioned World War II vessel is now a 33,000-ton floating museum. Visitors can experience tours of the ship’s decks and quarters, view restored aircraft, and interact with a high-tech flight simulator.
To learn about the region’s natural heritage, visit the Texas State Aquarium, which inspires appreciation for the Gulf of Mexico and beyond through its exhibits. The Blue Hole and Coral Reef show the area’s unique geography and vibrantly colorful and diverse fish. Others show dangerous predators at close--yet safe--distances. The aquarium rescues and rehabilitates endangered species, such as sea turtles and sharks.
Dining
For locally harvested seafood at affordable prices, visit Snoopy’s Pier. In 1980, Ernie Butler and his wife purchased a bait stand and burger joint, which they transformed into a restaurant, with recipes shared by their family and friends. For dessert, customers can go next door to Scoopy’s, offering treats and ice cream.
Lodging
Hotel De Ville is adjacent to the beach, a Ferris wheel, and the USS Lexington. The convenient location gives families a versatile road-trip experience. The rooms are recently renovated and spacious.
South Padre Island
South Padre is accessed from the mainland via the Queen Isabella Causeway at Port Isabel. For a more serene locale, visitors can continue north past the attractions
for an uninhabited beachfront stretching for 26 miles.
South Padre’s history began when the Spanish established a permanent residence around 1804. Prior to then, only nomadic Native Americans and survivors of three shipwrecks in 1554 inhabited the space. In fact, remains of the wrecked fleet of ships reportedly lie beneath the waves.
Cultural Attractions
Built in 1852, Port Isabel Lighthouse State Historic Site has withstood the weather for over a century. One of the only Texas lighthouses open to the Texas public, the 72-foot structure offers beautiful views of coastal sites not accessible elsewhere in the state. At the base, visitors can see the lighthouse keeper’s cottage.
Around the Lighthouse
A variety of amenities and attractions circle the historic lighthouse, as it is uniquely situated in downtown Port Isabel. Within steps are dining options with great views, spirits with ambience, the Port Isabel Historical Museum, the longest lighted fishing pier in Texas, a pirate cruise, eco-tourism cruises, bay charters, lots of shopping, and accommodations. Park and spend the entire day relaxing and adventuring.
For more information about this road trip and others across Texas, visit the THC website at thc.texas.gov •
Split Rail RV Park & Resort
$12,000
1 Brm, 1 Bath 1985 Carri Lite 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
Lamplighter Mobile Park, Palmview
$54,900
Looking for a place where you own the lot, your search is over! Stop by and check out this perfectly priced listing that includes two lots with a combined Sq ft of 3,995, a utility room, a storage shed, two carports, and even an RV port! Heather Escobedo, TREC686290, MHSLSP00048506, (956) 271-3683
Siesta Retirement Village
$87,500
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
$89,000
RV lot and coach house and is exceptionally private with a spacious outdoor living area for entertaining or simply sitting and enjoying the birds and butterflies in the quiet sunshine. Bath features a spa-like shower. Gail Gallagher, TREC797370, MHSLSP00048999, (816) 916-5583
Enchanted Valley Ranch, Mission
We know you’ve been searching the market for something great. That’s why you should check out this whopping 1,968 sqft, fully furnished, 2-bedroom 2-bathroom home.
Oversized RV Lot! Greenspace on 2 sides! Amazing outdoor living space! Cute Coach House! Tons of storage! What more can you ask for? This is the perfect setup for a full time RVer looking for a home base somewhere warm and affordable. Carol Kerr Welch, TREC540183, MHSLSP00048089, (956) 900-8487
BACK ON MARKET! Spacious 2 bed/2 bath home has 1278 sqft and features large primary w/ private bath. Spacious living room with nice front bay windows. Large Texas Room PLUS separate workshop/storage area! Assumable VA loan for qualified buyers! Curt Riester, TREC771832, MHSLSP00047858, (956) 455-4195
$56,000
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
Sunset Palms RV & MH Park
$94,900
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
$87,500
Nice 2 bd, 2 bath mobile home with over 500 sq feet of added on room, which totals to 1540 sq feet.with 2 living areas and dining. Tami Smith, TREC713591, MHSLSP00044829, (956) 274-9161
BEAUTIFUL 2 bed/2 bath home! Partially furnished home featuries wood laminate floors, water softener system, and view of the 8th green. Large kitchen with granite counter tops. Rear entry golf cart garage. Curt Riester, TREC771832, MHSLSP00047858, (956) 455-4195
$175,000 $120,000
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
Retama Village, Mission
Adobe Wells, McAllen
Retama Village, Mission
Alamo Country Club, Alamo Wagon City South
If you drove by any of the RV parks and resorts in the Valley January 11 and 12 and noticed things were rather quiet, it’s likely because of the 17 th Annual Open House at Ron Hoover RV & Marine Centers in Donna. Every year, the crowd gets larger and the joy is spread further. Free t-shirts, loads of hot dogs, games, door prizes, and entertainment bring smiles, full tummies, laughter, and the latest and greatest dance moves, but the guests also come to see what the largest boat and RV dealer in Texas has on the lot.
The folks at the family-owned-and-operated business readily say their popular event wouldn’t be possible without the generous sponsorship of Arca Continental (Coca-Cola Southwest Beverages). Dozens of vendors take part every year, too. The Open House benefits the South Texas Juvenile Diabetes Association. Each day, there is a luckvy grand-prize winner. January 11, Dan and Sherry Zirnhelt-who live in North Dakota during the Winter Texan off-season--won a cargo trailer. The next day, Luis Lopez from Laredo snagged the grand prize and chose a shiny 4-wheeler.
This year, the Ron Hoover team added a special reveal during their event. Two local Make-A-Wish® Rio Grande Valley children dreamed of a trip to Disney, and their wishes were granted.
The team in Donna can’t wait to see you at their 18th annual event in 2025. •
Ron Hoover RV & Marine Centers: Where Wishes Come True
DANCE JAM SESSIONS MEALS SALES ENTERTAINMENT & SHOWS
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. •
Redneck Revival, 7:00 PM, Pine to Palm Resort Park Weslaco (956) 968-5760 $9 Ron Moshier-HOIYA , 7:00 PM, Siesta Retirement Village Weslaco (956) 9693740 $10
Steven May & The Southern Knights, 7:00 PM, Tip O Texas RV Resort Pharr (956) 787-9959 $8 Baggage , 7:30 PM, South Padre Island Convention South Padre Island (956) 943-4700 Move Over Mrs. Markham, 7:30 PM, South Padre Island Convention South Padre Island (956) 943-4700
THURSDAY, JANUARY 25, 2024
Community Garage Sale, 8:00 AM, Tropic Winds RV Resort Harlingen (956) 423-4020 RGV Woodcarvers, 8:00 AM, Nomad Shrine Club Pharr (956) 781-1986 All You Can Eat Pancakes, 9:00 AM, The Grove San Juan Bluegrass Jam, 9:00 AM, Lamplighter MH
DANCE JAM SESSIONS MEALS SALES ENTERTAINMENT & SHOWS
Subdivision Palmview (956) 585-7900
Craft Fair, 9:00 AM, Ranchero Village Senior Resort Park Weslaco (956) 968-6223
Advanced Workshop, 10:00 AM, Tropic Star
RV Resort Pharr (956) 787-5773 $5
Country Jam, 10:00 AM, El Valle Del Sol Mission (956) 585-5704
Open House at Sunset Palms, Brownsville, 10:00 AM, Sunset Palms RV Park
Country Jam Lunch, 11:00 AM, Siesta Retirement Village Weslaco (956) 969-3740 $8
Country & Gospel Jam & Lunch, 11:30 AM, Pharr South Pharr (956) 787-7839
Rick McEwen - The Gambler, 7:00 PM, Canyon Lake RV Resort Mission (956) 580-4545 $10 SHEN YUN 2024 in McAllen , 7:00 PM, McAllen Performing Arts Center McAllen (956) 681-3800
Steven May & The Southern Knights, 7:00 PM, Trophy Gardens RV Resort Alamo (956) 787-7717 $8
The Family Comedy Variety Show, 7:00 PM, Split Rail RV Park Mission (956) 585-8135 $8 The Howlers, 7:00 PM, Leisure Valley Ranch Mission (956) 529-1878
Country Jam w/Rusty Rierson , 1:00 PM, Mission Bell Tradewinds RV Resort Mission (956) 585-4833
Country Jam Session , 1:00 PM, Siesta Retirement Village Weslaco (956) 969-3740 Shake, Rattle & Roll, 2:00 PM, Tip O Texas RV Resort $$8 in advance; $10 at the door Regan James, 3:00 PM, Snow to Sun RV Resort Weslaco (956) 968-0322 $PTH
Jam Session, 6:00 PM, Victoria Palms RV Resort Donna (956) 464-7801
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 360-580-4149. Alamo, TX $75,500
Very Nice 2018 Rockwood 2604 WS TT - 30'
This 30-foot camper is the perfect size for two 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
Hydralift Motorcycle Lift
Located in Donna, Texas. Call (417) 8602582 or (417) 742-2662. $3500 Wally Edwards
37’ 2011 Gas Georgetown Motorhome
42,000 miles. 2- A/C units, 2-slide outs, 2-bath, 3-TV, King Bed, All the amenities. $39,000 OBO Call or text for photos Call Shel at #320-260-9201
1999 Itasca Motorhome Class A
Suncruiser Ford V-10, 37 ft, low mileage, in fair condition, double slide-outs, queen bed, levelers, $13,500 OBO #270-816-2795 or #440-327-9330
Fifth Wheel
2015 Columbus 295RL Fifth Wheel
Well maintained 2 A/C units, new living room furniture, island, central vac, fireplace, residential queen mattress, washing machine, 2 TVs, includes many appliances, kitchenware, hand&power tools, hoses, connectors, Custom woodsteps &more! Immaculate inside and out! Available March 3 $29,000 (847)922-6011
HOMES
Alamo Country Club (55+ Community)
Furnished! On golf course! New quartz countertops, white kitchen cabinets. New plank-style floors. 2Brm/2Baths. Big MBrm. $198,000 Tom Shanahan 651.703.7154 OR shanahan.tom@ gmail.com. To see pictures of this home, go to Facebook page Tom L Shanahan
Must See, Price Reduced
Must sell my permanent home located in Donna RV Park. 1-bdrm, 1 and half bath, Furnished including washer and dryer. Good starter home! $8000 Call (816) 617-7999 or (918)232-5484
Newly custom-built home, move-in ready! 700sqft living space, tile floors, granite countertops, shingle roof, 3-ton A/C unit, & all new appliances. $110,000 Melissa (956) 266-3597
MANUFACTURED HOMES
Breeze Lake MH & RV Campground
New 2022 - 2/2 Legacy Home. Open floor plan, forward living room, rear master. Full washer/ dryer hookup, refrigerator, dishwasher, range w/over range microwave. Gail Gallagher, TREC797370, MHSLSP00048999, (816) 916-5583 $94900
Immaculate Updated & Partially Furnished
Two bed/2 bath with an 11x26 Texas room, an 11x19 workshop and portable shed. Fully fenced. Own the land! Reduced price $99,500 Diana Martinez (956) 456-6103
Llano Grande Resort & Golf Club, Mercedes
3 Bd, 2 Ba Oakwood Manufactured Home (1,280 sq ft). Natural lighting, Walkin Closets, Fully Furnished, Large Carport/ Patio, Air-Conditioned Workshop with Storage. $83000 Gail Gallagher, TREC797370, MHSLSP00048999, (816) 916-5583
Siesta Retirement Village
2/2 mobile on leased lot. Updated kitchen with new counter and cabinets, garage and metal roof have been added. $87500 Tami Smith, TREC713591, MHSLSP00044829, (956) 274-9161
Siesta Village, Weslaco
3 bedroom, 2 bath double wide mobile home on an owned lot. 2 living areas for entertaining. Mostly furnished. $120000 Tami Smith, TREC713591, MHSLSP00044829, (956) 274-9161
Sunset Palms RV & MH Park
2/2 2022 Legacy Home (1050 sqft). Covered porch. 55+ community Brownsville. $94900 Gail Gallagher, TREC797370, MHSLSP00048999, (816) 916-5583
Wagon City South
3/2-bathroom on oversized corner lot includes a 1-car garage. New roof and hardy plank siding. $120000 Heather Escobedo, TREC686290, MHSLSP00048506, (956) 271-3683
PARK MODELS
Alamo Palms RV Resort
1 bed/1bath w/Texas Room, separate laundry room. New gas stove, seamless gutters, FULLY FURNISHED, Alamo Palms.
1 Brm, 1 Bath 1985 Carri Lite Park Model with Texas Room, Car Port & Shed 924 sq. ft. of living space. 2 A/C units, new Refrigerator & Stove. Located across from Park Office, Pool, 55+ community Split Rail RV Park. $12000 Gail Gallagher, TREC797370, MHSLSP00048999, (816) 916-5583
RV Lots & Sites
Lamplighter Mobile Park, Palmview
2 lots/combined Sqft of 3,995, utility room, storage shed, 2 carports, RV port! RV port has FHU with 50 amp. $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 $ Jim Frerichs (308) 440-5154
PATIO SALES
Posada Del Sol Harlingen
Park Sale and Bake Sale in the rec hall at Posada Del Sol Harlingen. Saturday, Jan 20, 2024 from 8am to 12pm
Our Savior Lutheran Garage Sale
2-day event February 9 and 10th from 8am to 12pm both days. Our Savior Lutheran Church 1105 W. Fern Ave, McAllen (956)631-6121
CHURCH SERVICE
Our Savior Lutheran Polka Service
Join us for a special one-time worship service January 28th at 9:30 am, featuring polka music and hymns at Our Savior Lutheran Church 1105 W. Fern Ave, McAllen. Free will offering. (956)631-6121
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 (956) 5811033
Trophy Gardens Craft Vendors Wanted
Trophy Gardens taking applications for an in-park Craft Show Jan 27 and/or Feb 24 . $12 tables. Contact Angela (956)685-5300 for info. Angela 956685-5300
Heart of the Valley Farmers Market Vendor
The Heart of the Valley Farmers Market is looking for 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.
