We’re just connecting the dots
WINTER TEXAN
Your Connection to the Rio Grande Valley
from Kristi
October is my favorite time of year in the Rio Grande Valley! The cooler weather, lower humidity, and anticipation of the upcoming Winter Texan season bring a sense of hope and excitement.
We’ve been busy preparing for the arrival of our winter friends, planning activities to keep you busy, organizing events like the Winter Texan Expo, Entertainer Showcase, and Bayside Fiesta, and creating an exciting editorial calendar. We can’t wait to share it all with you!
Whether this is your first--or your 15th--winter in South Texas, we’re delighted to have you. Welcome Home Winter Texan is your go-to resource for everything the Rio Grande Valley has to offer, from dances and dining to craft sales and more. We’re here to keep you informed and make your stay enjoyable.
The Valley is a truly special place, and we’re so glad you have chosen Texas to be your winter home.
~We’re just connecting the dots.
Local Artists Keeping McAllen Beautiful
Oneida Trevino of Harlingen knew she wanted to be an artist since childhood. By her senior year in high school, her artwork was on display for a year at the U. S. Capitol, the result of a congressional competition.
“That’s when I was like, ‘OK, maybe this is something I should look into.’” Trevino has taught art through community programs since 2006 and was a fine arts teacher for 16 years. In 2022, she decided to leave the public-school sector to sole-
ly focus on bringing art to the community.
That she has. Trevino has personally painted over 20 pipes as part of Keep McAllen Beautiful’s Irrigation Pipe Public Art Project. “It’s been amazing,” she says. “The whole Valley has opened up their eyes to the positive aspects of public art.”
Keep McAllen Beautiful (KMB) is a nonprofit focused on beautification and education for the City of McAllen. Program Director Chris Lash says
community feedback is what fuels their efforts to expand public art.
The community’s response after artists transformed the large pipes along the Bicentennial hike-and-bike trail was so positive “we knew we wanted to keep doing art,” says Lash.
There are over 200 pipes throughout the city. Most are remnants of the city’s agricultural origins. KMB put a call out for artists to submit pipe-design ideas for consid-
A Texas longhorn is one of many iconic state and regional images showcased in Trevino’s “Don’t Mess With Texas” mural. The mural runs 400 feet along McAllen’s 2nd Street hike-and-bike trail south of Pecan Blvd.
Photos Courtesy of Creative Explorations RGV
Story by Eryn Reddell Wingert
eration, focusing on themes relevant to the region. Dozens of pipes have been painted since the project’s inception, depicting native wildlife like cicadas, horned toads and hummingbirds, cultural scenes like folklorico dancers and loteria cards, and even abstracts. “It’s just amazing to me what they are able to execute,” says Lash.
The pipes stand 15- to 18-feet tall. Once a design is approved, artists are assigned a blank pipe and receive supplies and a stipend. The youngest contributing artist, following in her mom’s footsteps, is Sophia Trevino, 15. Public art is a family affair for the Trevinos, which includes husband Jesse, son Isaiah, 21, and daughter Ava, 10. Together, they have contributed close to 30 pipe designs and, most notably, supported Oneida when she was selected to create a 400-foot “Don’t Mess With Texas” mural. Trevino credits Jesse. “It was really achieved because of his help,” she says. Together, the family endured early mornings, noisy generators for light, running supplies back and forth, unloading and hauling equipment, honking cars, hot days, long hours, rushing back to Harlingen to teach art class at Creative Explorations RGV, then back at it again at night.
The mural depicts iconic Texas symbols, but also cultural aspects of the Valley, something Tre-
vino incorporates into many of her pipe murals. “I choose things that I’ve seen that others would appreciate.”
Appreciate, indeed. Lash says the feedback for the boom in public art has been immense--artists receiving recognition beyond the region, the city commission expanding support, and positive community response via social media each time a new pipe is revealed.
To see where the pipes are located, visit keepmcallenbeautiful.org for a map and gallery. And read KMB’s “Meet the Artist” each week in Welcome Home Winter Texan. •
219 W Nolana McAllen, TX 78504
956.687.5115 www.welcomehomergv.com
Publisher Kristi Collier kristi@welcomehomergv.com
Content Creator/Photographer
Eryn Reddell Wingert eryn@welcomehomergv.com
Accounting
Angela Blanchard angela@welcomehomergv.com
Administration
Amie Gray agray@welcomehomergv.com
Event Manager
Anne Marie Martin events@welcomehomergv.com
Editor Chris Ardis news@welcomehomergv.com
Graphic Design AIM Media Texas, LLC
Activity Coordinator
Fran Adams fran@welcomehomergv.com
Business Development
Chris Leadbetter chris@welcomehomergv.com
Travel Division
Kristy Meyer travel@welcomehomergv.com
Sarah Denzer sarah@welcomehomergv.com
Stella Riester stella@welcomehomergv.com
Calendar Submissions!
For more information on submitting your events and activities, please e-mail: calendar@welcomehomergv.com
The deadline for submision is Fridays at 5:00pm
Weekly E-Blasts
Kristi’s e-Blasts are send 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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Sophia Trevino, 15, stands next to her depiction of a girl on horseback, based on a winning painting she submitted to the Rio Grande Valley Livestock Show.
Inspired by witnessing folklorico performances at the McAllen Civic Center as a child, Trevino incorporated a dancer into the 2nd Street mural.
Keep McAllen Beautiful –Meet the Artist
Keep McAllen Beautiful (KMB) introduces the artists behind the irrigation pipe masterpieces through their Meet the Artist series. Welcome Home Winter Texan reached out to Chris Lash, KMB program manager, and asked for permission to share the series. She readily agreed. Look for Meet the Artist in our issues throughout the 2024 – 2025 season.
Chris Lash has been employed by the City of McAllen, for 23 years. She currently serves as the program manager for Keep McAllen Beautiful (KMB). Her responsibilities include establishing projects and events that will help achieve KMB’s mission to expand awareness about littering and recycling and to promote beatification and preservation in McAllen. Oneida Trevino is an artist and art educator from Harlingen. She has a bachelor’s Degree in Art from The University of Texas Pan-American. She has over 20 years of experience as an educator and has been creating artwork all her life. Her artwork consists mainly of portraits of people and animals of the Rio Grande Valley. She incorporates a variety of media, from watercolors to acrylic to oils and clay. Oneida loves to teach art and has been working with the community to spread a love of art through classes. She teaches in her studio, Creative Explorations RGV, and through community-led public art. •
Winter Texan Spotlight
Story by Eryn Reddell Wingert
Watch this space for profiles on amazing Winter and Converted Texans with interesting skills, achievements, and backgrounds.
Each W inter Texas season, those of us connected to Welcome Home RGV meet interesting people and learn fascinating stories, many of which are cover-worthy. Unfortunately, there are only so many issues of Welcome Home Winter Texan in a season.
Stories deserve to be told--whether they’re inspiring, romantic, funny or informative--so we’re making space right here to tell your stories!
Every winter visitor has a story--how you met your significant other, a special skill you bring to your RV park, or maybe your intriguing, award-winning hobby. We have kept somewhat of a running list of fascinating folks--from ground-
breaking Hall of Famers to talented musicians to couples finding love. We look forward to introducing you and sharing your experiences.
Not only will this space spotlight interesting members of the Winter Texan community but it will also highlight organizations, programs, and entities that enhance your visit to the Rio Grande Valley. (Examples: hidden park gems, handicapped-accessible outings, nature programs and hobby clubs--skeet shooting, anyone?)
If you have an interesting park resident or know of a program that speaks to the broader Winter Texan community, email your idea to news@welcomehomergv.com. In the meantime, we look forward to sharing the stories of people you should know and of places that enrich the winter visitor experience and enhance life in the Rio Grande Valley. •
Spotted in the RGV
Story by Eryn Reddell Wingert
Migrating hummingbirds arrive in South Texas starting in September. If you are into birdwatching, these spunky speedsters put on quite the show. This male, ruby-throated humming bird perched, alert and ready to defend his sugar-water turf. Luckily, we have hummingbirds yearround in the Rio Grande Valley. To attract them to your yard or porch/ dissolve 1/4 cup of sugar in one cup boiling water; let it cool before adding it to a hummingbird feeder.
Raise Your Hand if You Love to Travel Travel Friends
Hello Travel Friends,
Whether it’s a road trip around Texas or a long flight with my passport in hand, I am always up for a new travel adventure. As I travel around the world with my husband, I’ve noticed that some of our favorite experiences are group activities. Those include taking a bus tour from Madrid to Toledo in Spain, a guided walking and a historical river cruise through Ljubljana, the capital of Slovenia. Participating in these group tours has many advantages. We meet new friends to share the experiences with, and we
still keep in touch with them. The local guides point out things we would have never known or noticed on our own. The best part is they are stressfree. Once we make it to the meeting point, the guides do all the work, and we get to relax and enjoy ourselves. I’ve taken little tips from every travel memory I’ve made to curate great tours and trips for you. Whether you’re here year-round or just for the winter, I have several group experiences available to add a little adventure to your life. Traveling to new places can be exhausting and stressful--if you’re doing it all on your own. A group trip allows you to enjoy making memories with friends while traveling while leaving the stressful part to us. I even make the transportation fun, with trivia, games, and entertainment along the way. Group travel also gives you access to exclusive VIP opportunities you wouldn’t have access to if you were
traveling on your own. For example, this season we have two trips to Corpus Christi where we’ll enjoy a private, catered lunch on the fantail of the USS Lexington. Talk about VIP! We offer group travel that fits into every budget. Try a day trip to Corpus Christi, a three-day overnight adventure to Fredericksburg, or a week-long voyage at sea. You can always see what we have going on at welcomehomergv.com, or give us a call at 956-687-5115. If you’re ready for a new adventure, grab a spot on one of our next group trips and join me for a memorable adventure.
I hope my photos will inspire you to join us on several adventures this season!
--Sarah Denzer •
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It was Mardi Gras, y’all, for Pharr South community’s 40th Annual Style Show. One hundred sixty-nine people from Pharr South and surrounding communities attended the show, held February 16.
The Style Show was originally launched in 1983 by the park’s Bunch for Lunch women and has been ongoing ever since, except 2021--due to COVID. It has had many creative themes throughout the years and is always a fun activity.
The Show was chaired by Sandy Fouquette, Sandy Levine, Laurie McGill, and Michelle Satterlee and was narrated by Barb Bierman.
As guests arrived, they were greeted by Rena Marketon, and each received Mardi Gras beads. The gentlemen of Pharr South escorted them to their table. Many
guests sported Mardi Gras masks and attire.
Following the luncheon, more than a dozen models from Pharr South walked the runway wearing outfits from Lionel’s Western Wear in Weslaco, Lionel’s Boutique in Mission, and Cato’s in Edinburg.
Models included Pat Bjorge, Angie Crowe, JoAnn Gilbaugh, Mary Johnson, Marsha Kienholz, Sue Lehman (and her husband, Brian Lehman), Gee Leiker, Lindal Martin, Lisa Sprick (and her husband, Jeff Sprick), Leah Wuestenberg, and Connie Wussow.
During the Style Show intermission, entertainment was provided by Pharr South residents Jane Heinen, Judy O’Hair, Lyle Gilfillan, and Gene Fritz. Watch for details about the 41st Pharr South Style Show, which will be held in February 2025! •
Day Trips Popular at Winter Ranch
Special to Welcome Home Winter Texan
Five-day trips sponsored by Welcome Home RGV were offered to residents at Winter Ranch RV Park in Alamo last season, and four were sell-outs. Only three seats were left on the fifth.
Boosted by a very successful trip to Rocket Ranch/ SpaceX in March 2023, which had a waiting list of 60 people, volunteer Nancy Stammer booked two more Rocket Ranch trips for January and February 2024. Trips to the shrimp boat, Gelman Stained Glass Museum, and the Alpaquita Ranch were added. The majority of participants were residents of Winter Ranch, with nearby Trophy Gardens helping to fill the motorcoaches.
“The response to the trips was phenomenal!” Stammer said.
A total of 60 participants carpooled to the Gelman Museum, located near Alamo. Stammer added a tour of the Basilica of Our Lady of San Juan del Valle. The group first went to the Basilica for a talk and tour led by Sister Rose Carmel. They then went to the Museum, home of
the most comprehensive collection of stained-glass windows in the United States. After hearing about Dr. Lawrence Gelman’s collection and the state-of-art museum, a Mexican-themed meal was served.
The other four trips were taken in 52-passenger motorcoaches. “Everyone loved the professionalism and friendliness of the drivers,” Stammer said.
“We remember the old prison buses used for park trips years ago and loved the luxury and comfort of the motorcoaches.”
At Texas Gold Shrimp Company, it was noted that the last trip by a Winter Ranch bus group was eight years ago. Participants learned about the difference in locally grown and farm-grown shrimp, and many purchased the much-better-flavored brown shrimp. The frozen shrimp can be partially thawed and repackaged.
Anthony, our tour guide at Rocket Ranch, once again gave an extremely detailed and interesting look at SpaceX. Stammer, who visited in 2023, was
amazed at the number of changes she saw in 2024. New buildings and walls hid some of the things seen earlier, and the group was not able to walk to the row of used starships, as they did in 2023. But it was also interesting to see the new shopping center, new signage, and housing for employees.
Of the five adventures, the trip producing the most laughs, smiles, and photos was the March 7 visit to the Alpaquita Ranch.
“I loved the three trips we went on,” said Deb Gillett. “But the one I’d go back on was the Alpaquita Ranch. I’m even thinking about staying in one of their B & B’s.”
“Such a fun day,” said Ruth Doyle. “WR is really lucky we didn’t come back with several cute little alpacas.”
Divided into two groups, the 48 participants attended six stations to learn about the feeding and care of the alpacas, take pictures, and shop. At one sta-
tion, they saw clothes, hats, and blankets made from alpaca fur. A contest was held to see which table could stuff fur into woven balls the quickest. At another, each person could bond with an alpaca while taking it for a walk. Another station introduced the group to the dyes and processes used by Peruvians to color the yarn. As Myra Luetje said, “Us ‘big kids’ had a great time feeding and walking the alpacas, they are so cute and sociable… and touring the grounds.”
Editor’s Note: To see all of the trips and tours WHRGV has to offer this season, visit welcomehomergv.com and click on Tours & Travel
Arbor Day Celebration Registration Now Open
Special to Welcome Home Winter Texan
Keep McAllen Beautiful (KMB) is hosting the 13th Annual Arbor Day Celebration Saturday, November 2, at Westside Park (1000 S. Ware Rd.). This fundraiser will benefit Keep McAllen Beautiful, a 501(c) (3) nonprofit organization, and will help increase awareness of the importance of planting and caring for trees in McAllen. The Arbor Day Celebration is a run, bike, and walk event that benefits everyone interested in personal health and the environment. All events are open to everyone, from amateur to professional levels. The day will be-
gin with a 25Mi/100K bike ride, a 5K/10K run, a Kids Fun Run, and an ongoing Tree Workshop. This new location will feature exciting experiences for participants. The 25-mile bike ride will be a scenic journey past several city parks. The turn-around point is Tres Lagos Park on Ware Road. The 100k cyclists will continue through some of the Rio Grande Valley’s most beautiful and tranquil agricultural areas, past the historic Moore Air Base then on to McCook.
For the 5K and 10K run, the location will be a dual-terrain run, where runners will have the op-
portunity to run on the street and then experience a trail run, surrounded by wonderful natural beauty and coursing through the McAllen Nature Center for a truly unique experience. The Kids Fun Run will take place around the Westside Park baseball field. The Arbor Day Celebration will feature music, educational booths, and much more. Additionally, free trees will be available for the public. Last year, KMB distributed over 1,000 trees. Whether you cycle, run, or just want to enjoy a day in the park, the Arbor Day Celebration is a great event for the entire
family. Entrance to the Park and Arbor Day activities are free for all, and you get to take home a native tree!
Join us for a good walk, run, or bike ride and great food, fun, and tree giveaways! All registered event-finishers will receive a medal. Registration is now open. Sponsorship and volunteer opportunities are available,as well. To register, visit our website at keepmcallenbeautiful.org or call 956-681-4562 for more information. •
McAllen Mobile Park, McAllen
$21,900
Wagon City South, Mission
Country Club
This 2012 unit is spacious, very well maintained and move in ready. The kitchen has beautiful maple colored wood cabinets, a food pantry, all major appliances and a gas stove top. A bonus 7x9 laundry room with a large storage closet, washer and dryer included! The exterior shed is also included! Bonnie Dominguez, MHSLSP00045160, (956) 434-6112
This freshly painted RV porthome in Retama Village features 4 bedrooms, 2 bonus spaces, a 2-car garage, and covered RV port with hookups. Enjoy an open floorplan, high ceilings, a private backyard oasis, and community amenities. HOA covers landscape maintenance. Call to see your dream home! Carol Kerr Welch, TREC540183, (956) 900-8487
You will love this home! The open floorplan lives much larger than the square footage. Updated paint inside and out, roof, windows, irrigation and landscaping. A mini split HVAC was also added to the garage. Enjoy worry free living in this beautiful home. Carol Kerr Welch, TREC540183, (956) 900-8487 Retama Village, Mission
McAllen Mobile Park, McAllen
$75,000
Beautiful 2 bed/2 bath corner lot in Aladdin Villas. This home features a spacious Texas Rom and sits on 1 & 1/2 lots which includes covered RV storage w/ hookups. Curt Riester, TREC771832, MHSLSP00047858, (956) 4554195
FANTASTIC 2 bed/2 bath 2014 Oak Creek 1300 sqft Home located in McAllen Mobile park. This home is FULL of upgrades including: new roof, new carport, porcelain tile flooring, Safe-Step Walk-in jetted tub/ shower combo, double panes storm windows, 8” insulated walls, new A/C, new washer/dryer, and a 5-stage reverse osmosis water system. A Must See!!! Curt Riester, TREC771832, MHSLSP00047858, (956) 455-4195
Hidden Valley Ranch, Mission
Wagon City South, Mission $437,000
$179,900
Are you tired of seeing the same old thing? This 2019 2 bedroom, 2 bath mobile home will check everything off your list and more! Heather Escobedo, TREC686290, MHSLSP00048506, (956) 271-3683
Looking for a diamond in the rough? Your search is over! This lovely 2 bedroom 2 bathroom mobile home, located in the esteemed 55+ community of Wagon City South is perfect for you! Heather Escobedo, TREC686290, (956) 271-3683
Located in the esteemed Wagon City South this fully furnished, split-concept 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom home is a must-see! Heather Escobedo, TREC686290, (956) 271-3683
Location, location. location! This RV Casita has one of the most coveted locations in the community. Lots of extras -- pergola, storage sheds, whole house 18 kw Generac generator and gutters making it better than new! All appliances convey. FHU for your RV, but you do not have to have an RV to enjoy this fabulous home. Carol Kerr Welch, TREC540183, MHSLSP00048089, (956) 900-8487
Hidden Valley Ranch, Mission
RV Porthome recently remodeled inside & out with large, fenced yard. Large 2 story storage area/ workshop with an additional 12x18 storage building for plenty of storage. Gail Gallagher, TREC797370, (816) 916-5583
Looking for an energy-efficient home? The home comes fully furnished with all kitchen appliances, a dishwasher included, and a custom-built Murphy bed. RV lot with full hookups. Heather Escobedo, TREC686290, (956) 271-3683
Llano Grande Resort, Mercedes
$99,900 $118,500 $45,500
Restful Valley Ranch, Mission
Come check out this cozy mobile home located in Restful Valley Ranch. This 14x42, 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom home sits in the center of the 3 lots. Heather Escobedo, TREC686290, MHSLSP00048506, (956) 271-3683
Own an RV and looking for a great place to park? Come check out this 42 wide by 72 long pull through RV lot, located in the 55+ community of Llano Grande Resort, where you own your lot!
Heather Escobedo, TREC686290, (956) 271-3683
$160,000
$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
This 2 Bed/2 bath home is perfectly located on the golf course in Alamo Country Club. Spacious primary bedroom & suite. Both bedrooms have access to the screened in backyard patio. Curt Riester, TREC771832, MHSLSP00047858, (956) 455-4195
$61,900
$145,000
This updated 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom furnished mobile is located in an active 55+ guarded gate community. Walk into this beautiful home and fall in love!
Features updated from 2021/2022 include a renovated kitchen (Painted cabinets and walls, new granite countertops, sink, faucet, disposal, dishwasher, and fridge) a fresh coat of paint in the living room, flooring, 2 mini splits, water heater, water softener, and even exterior features like the screened in porch, extended concrete, and northside fencing with gate. Heather Escobedo, TREC686290, MHSLSP00048506, (956) 271-3683
WOW - Please check out this 2018 Palomino Columbus 5th Wheel. Features 1 bd/1 bath with spacious kitchen and living areas! It also has loads of storage space inside and out! Outdoor wetbar w/ fridge & cooktop! Curt Riester, TREC771832, MHSLSP00047858, (956) 455-4195
Hidden Valley Ranch, Mission
Monte Cristo, Edinburg
$76,000
$51,500
MUST SEE!! This charming 1 bedroom, 1-bathroom mobile home is located in a 55+ community, just minutes from the Monte Cristo’s 18 hole golf course. Heather Escobedo, TREC686290, (956) 271-3683
Searching for a gated 55+ community to settle down in? Then stop and check out this 2 bedroom 1.5 bath mobile home. Step inside and experience the bright and airy front living space and the lovely eat-in kitchen that provides the perfect combination of functionality and comfort. Heather Escobedo, TREC686290, MHSLSP00048506, (956) 271-3683
$268,900
$225,000
GOTTA SEE this large 1665 sqft 2 bed/2 bath home in Alamo Country Club. This home is located on the golf course witha wonderful view of the 4th hole. Primary has room for king bed and both bedrooms have new tile flooring. An updated kitchen with breakfast nook with bay windows and a screen in porch round out the upgrades. Curt Riester, TREC771832, MHSLSP00047858, (956) 455-4195
Winter Green Estates, Mission
$57,000
Location, Location, Location! Own an RV and looking for a great place to park? Come check out this property, located in the 55+ community of Llano Grande Resort, where you own your lot! RV pad hook-ups included 30 amp and 50 amp services and a storage shed with 220vac connection. Heather Escobedo, TREC686290, MHSLSP00048506, (956) 271-3683
Looking for a cozy home to make your own? Look no further than this cute one-bedroom mobile that provides all you need for your home away from home— located in Wintergreen Estates, an active 55+ community. Heather Escobedo, TREC686290, (956) 271-3683
Wagon City South, Mission
Alamo Country Club
$199,000
$58,500 $115,000
Located in a active 55+ community of Wagon City South, this well-preserved 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom home sits on a corner lot and is fully furnished and is move-in ready. The open-concept living and dining space is perfect for entertaining guests or relaxing alone. Heather Escobedo, TREC686290, MHSLSP00048506, (956) 271-3683
Beautiful 2 bed/2 bath in Alamo Country Club with Texas Room, screened back patio including mini-dog park, large primary bedroom, 2 living spaces on the golf course! Curt Riester, TREC771832, MHSLSP00047858, (956) 455-4195
Retama Village, Mission
Retama Village, Mission
McAllen Mobile Park, McAllen
Llano Grande Resort, Mercedes
Alamo Country Club, Alamo
Llano Grande Resort, Mercedes
Alamo
Casa Del Valle, Alamo
Path of Marigolds Final Performance October 18 Pharr Community Theater
Special to Welcome Home Winter Texan
Raquel Valle-Sentíes, poet laureate from Laredo, Texas, wrote Path of Marigolds in 2005.
“I chose Marilyn Monroe as one of the characters because she was my idol when I was a teen and forever more. Frida Kahlo and Sor Juana Inés de la Cruz, who also appear in the story, I admired, obviously, for different reasons, and the rest is history,” she said. Dalia Bouchée, from Pharr, is directing the play, set in Laredo on the eve of Día de Muertos in the 1980s.
“This story is about resilience and finding oneself. It’s about Ariana and her best friend Consuelo. Ariana seeks the help of her heroes to make a life-changing decision, including three amazing ghosts--who each represent a certain aspect of her life--and that is how I’m trying to portray it on the stage.”
The two-act play centers around two adult women, friends since grade school, when they meet for dinner at Ariana’s home, decorated with an altar and marigold flowers in honor of the deceased. That evening, Ariana summons the spirits of Marilyn Monroe, Frida Kahlo, and Sor Juana Ines De la Cruz. Together, with laughter and debate, they discuss strong and failed relationships, culture, and a hidden secret.
The cast consists of five women from the RGV. Long-time actress Deisy Sanjuán plays the role of Ariana.
“Ariana is a woman who started off following her heart, at the end of her high school
years, instead of her passion,” said Sanjuán. “As she grew into an adult, she realized something was not right, especially in her most treasured relationship. This is when she refocuses on her passion in interior design. In preparing for the challenging role, I work at discovering and portraying Ariana’s array of emotions. I’m enjoying the process.”
Other cast members include Traisy Flores as Consuelo, Liz Muñoz as Sor Juan Ines De La Cruz, Sylvia Escobar as Frida Kahlo, and Erika Garza as Marilyn Monroe.
“Marilyn is very different than I thought she would be,” said Garza. “I really didn’t know a lot about her until I read our play. I could see how she was very different than the characters she played in movies. In my preparation, I had to see some documentaries and movies to understand the character and try to see how she moves, how she talks, how she laughs.”
Muñoz, who has been in nearly a dozen plays with PCT, plays the role of 17th century nun Sor Juana Ines de la Cruz. Her preparation for the part, aside from method acting, also contains technicalities.
“What I usually do is read from the script in front of a mirror,” Muñoz said. “That’s what I think works for me. And to help me learn my lines, I’ve gotten into the habit of reading my scenes from beginning to end and then reading them backwards. It helps free me up to really be engaging, not just waiting for my cue. It helps me relax and be more in the role
and not so much in my head.” Long-time theater director and producer Pedro Garcia shares, “PCT prides itself on being a training ground for actors and technicians. When working with an actor, either a first-timer or more advanced, we like to see how they intuitively approach a role and what they bring to it, how they perceive it first, which lots of times works just fine. Then, if need be, we offer adjustments, guidance, direction, and training. I tell actors, ‘The tools you will acquire here at PCT will help you when developing other parts you may play.’”
Damian Wight is the production stage manager and assistant director; Sergio Luna is the graphics designer; María Flores Gandará is an understudy and the costume design assistant, Robert Flores is the set designer, Santos Reyna is the lighting designer, and Cecilio Muñoz is the production assistant.
SHOWTIME AND TICKETS
The final show will be Friday, October 18, at the Pharr One Center, 1121 E. Nolana Loop in Pharr (seats 160) at 7:30 p.m. Advance tickets are encouraged and can be purchased for $8 at pharrcommunitytheater.com. Tickets will only be available at the door, if tickets remain. Path of Marigolds is in English and is rated the equivalent of a PG-13 movie. For more details, please visit the Pharr Community Theater FB page, Instagram, the website, or via text to 956-532-3383 or 956655-9308. •
The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley Announces Exciting 2024 Theatre Season
The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley is thrilled to unveil its 2024 Theatre Season, showcasing an array of compelling performances that promise to captivate and inspire audiences. This season features a dynamic mix of contemporary and classic works, offering a diverse range of theatrical experiences for everyone.
(Editor’s Note: The first production ran October 11 – 13).
Our second production of the season is none other than the wildly imaginative Ride the Cyclone, a musical by Jacob Richmond and Brooke Maxwell. This vibrant and eccentric production follows a group of teenage friends who find themselves trapped in a carnival ride that takes them on a fantastical journey through life and death. With its unique blend of humor, music, and surrealism, this show promises a rollercoaster of emotions and an unforgettable theatrical experience. Ride the Cyclone will run November 22 - 24.
In the spring, UTRGV Theatre will bring Shakespeare’s tragic romance, Romeo & Juliet, to life. This iconic play tells the story of two star-crossed lovers whose passionate relationship defies the bitter feud between
their families. With its rich language and enduring themes of love and conflict, this production will offer a dramatic performance of one of the greatest love stories ever told. Performances will run March 7 - 9. Closing the season is a production for the entire family. Carmela Full of Wishes, adapted by Alvaro Saar Rios, from the book by Matt de la Peña, is a charming and magical play that delves into themes of family, tradition, and self-discovery. Following young Carmela as she embarks on a whimsical journey filled with magical realism and cultural reflection, this play provides a heartwarming exploration of identity and the power of dreams. This Theatre for Young Audiences production is recommended for children five years and older and will run April 25 – 27.
The UTRGV Theatre Department is dedicated to offering audiences a diverse range of theatrical
OCTUBAFEST
Sunday, October 20
3- 5 p.m.
UTRGV Performing Arts Complex 1201 W. University Dr., Edinburg Tickets are not required for this event.
Special to Welcome Home Winter Texan Special to Welcome Home Winter Texan
works that challenge, entertain, and inspire. The 2024 season promises to be a celebration of storytelling and creativity, featuring both celebrated classics and innovative new works.
For more information on the 2024 Theatre Season, including performance dates, ticket sales, and additional details, please visit utrgv.edu/theatre or contact the UTRGV Theatre Box Office at 956-665-3581 or by email at theatreboxoffice@utrgv.edu.
UTRGV Arts October Events
Join us for the annual Octubafest, where the UTRGV Tuba and Euphonium Ensemble performs a lively program of music written for tuba and euphonium! This event features students of Dr. Scott Roeder in both large and small ensembles and often features original compositions and arrangements by UTRGV students.
MASTER CHORALE
Tuesday, October 22
7 – 9 p.m. • Doors Open at 6 p.m. TSC Performing Arts Center 90 Taylor Ave., Brownsville Tickets: $6
Master Chorale is a large choral ensemble that studies and performs outstanding choral literature of all eras and styles but mostly major works with the Valley Sympho ny Orchestra.
Master Chorale is directed by Dr. Taylor, who serves as an assistant professor of music and director of choral studies on the Brownsville campus.
To see all of the upcoming UTRGV Arts events and to purchase tickets, visit showpass.com/o/utrgv-arts. For questions or special accommodations, please contact the UTRGV School of Music at 956-665-3881 or 956-882-7025.
DANCES ENTERTAINMENT & SHOWS
Calendar of Events
Wednesday • Oct 16, 2024
Dance w/Steven May & The Southern Knights 7:00 PM Tip O Texas Resort Pharr (956)787-6461 $8
Thursday • Oct 17, 2024
Happy Hour w/Steven May 3:00 PM Tropic Star RV Resort Pharr (956) 787-5957 $PTH
Dance w/Texas Wheels 7:00 PM Bit-OHeaven RV and MH Resort Donna (701) 269-1045 $8
US Army Field Band and Soldiers’ Chorus 8:00 PM McAllen Performing Arts Center
Friday • Oct 18, 2024
Fiesta de Palmas 5:00 PM McAllen Convention Center, McAllen Pumpkin Carving 5:00 PM Las Palmas Community Center McAllen
Dance w/Ron Moshier 7:00 PM Snow to Sun RV Resort Weslaco (956) 968-0322 $8
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.
Dance w/Wally Garza & Texas Blood 7:00 PM Texas Trails RV Resort Pharr (956) 787-6538 $8
The Camille Playhouse presents: THE CRUCIBLE 7:00 PM Camille Lightner Playhouse Brownsville $20 (956) 542-8900
Path of Marigolds 7:30 PM Pharr Community Theater, Pharr $8
Saturday • Oct 19, 2024
“Famous Brisket Sandwich” Fundraiser
11:00 AM St. Alban’s Episcopal Church Harlingen (956) 428-2305 $15
Fiesta de Palmas 12:00 PM McAllen
Convention Center
The Camille Playhouse presents: THE CRUCIBLE 2:00 PM Camille Lightner Playhouse Brownsville $20 (956) 542-8900 Brownsville Latin Jazz Festival 2024 3:00 PM Linear Park, Brownsville $15
Brews & Tunes Beer Fest 6:00 PM Harlingen Baseball Field Harlingen $25
The Camille Playhouse presents: THE CRUCIBLE 7:00 PM Camille Lightner Playhouse Brownsville $20 (956) 542-8900
Dance w/Texas Wheels 7:00 PM Trophy Gardens RV Resort Alamo (956) 787-7717 $8
Dance w/The Lockharts 7:00 PM Enchanted Valley Ranch Mission $10
Sunday • Oct 20, 2024
Fiesta de Palmas 12:00 PM McAllen Convention Center
The Camille Playhouse presents: THE CRUCIBLE 2:00 PM Camille Lightner Playhouse Brownsville $20 (956) 542-8900
Tuesday • Oct 22, 2024
Happy Hour w/The Lockhart’s 3:00 PM Bit-O-Heaven RV and MH Resort Donna (701) 269-1045 PTH
JAM SESSIONS SALES
Wednesday • Oct 23, 2024
Dance w/Steven May & The Southern Knights 7:00 PM Tip O Texas Resort Pharr (956)787-6461 $8
Thursday • Oct 24, 2024
Nature Series: Spiders of the RGV 2:00
PM McAllen Main Library (956) 681-3061
Happy Hour w/Randy Webb 4:00 PM
Leisure Valley Ranch Mission PTH
STVT Pumpkin Patch Night 4:00 PM
South Texas Vo-Tech McAllen Free Dance w/Ron Moshier 7:00 PM Bit-OHeaven RV and MH Resort Donna (701) 269-1045 $8
Halloween Dance w/The Lockharts 7:00 PM Valley View Estates Mission $10
Friday • Oct 25, 2024
Knitted Knocker Stuffing Party 1:00 PM
The Lambs Loom McAllen Free The Camille Playhouse presents: THE
7:00 PM Camille Lightner Playhouse Brownsville $20 (956) 542-8900
Dance w/Steven May & The Southern Knights 7:00 PM Snow to Sun RV Resort Weslaco (956) 968-0322 $8
Dance w/Sweetwater 7:00 PM Texas Trails RV Resort Pharr (956) 787-6538 $8
Halloween Costume Ball w/Curt James 7:00 PM Ranchero Village Weslaco (956) 968-6223 $8
Saturday • Oct 26, 2024
Park Yard Sale 8:00 AM 1015 RV Park
Weslaco
54th Annual Dakee Si Fall Powwow
10:00 AM Alton Community Center Alton Free
Knitted Knocker Stuffing Party 1:00 PM
The Lambs Loom McAllen Free
The Camille Playhouse presents: THE CRUCIBLE 2:00 PM Camille Lightner
Playhouse Brownsville $20 (956) 542-8900
Spooktacular Market & Trunk-O-Treat
5:00 PM Barbershop 62 @losmercaditosrgv
The Camille Playhouse presents: THE CRUCIBLE 7:00 PM Camille Lightner Playhouse Brownsville $20 (956) 542-8900
Dance w/Diego & Edith 7:00 PM Trophy Gardens RV Resort Alamo (956) 787-7717 $8
Halloween Dance w/Vinyl Spin 7:00 PM Enchanted Valley Ranch $10
Sunday • Oct 27, 2024
The Camille Playhouse presents: THE CRUCIBLE 2:00 PM Camille Lightner Playhouse Brownsville $20 (956) 542-8900
Tuesday • Oct 29, 2024
South Texas Book Festival 11:00 AM McAllen Public Library McAllen (956) 6813000
Happy Hour w/Texas SweetHearts 3:00 PM Bit-O-Heaven RV and MH Resort Donna (701) 269-1045 PTH
Happy Hour w/Bruce Boudreau 4:00 PM Enchanted Valley Ranch Mission PTH
Vida Verse: A Celebration of South Texas Poets 6:00 PM McAllen Public Library McAllen (956) 681-3000 Free Halloween Dance w/The Brothers Three 7:00 PM Tropic Star RV Resort $15
Perspectives Monkey Business
by Paula Key
It was a regular day in the Peten Jungles of Guatemala--washing clothes by hand in the pila (concrete tub) and letting the bread rise to have with dinner. I happened to go to the kitchen sink to wash my hands and looked out the window just above the sink. There was Pancha, our pet spider monkey, on her perch outside the window, with her leash attached to the perch. She got excited about something and started jumping and running across and over and under her perch! At first, I laughed, but then I saw that she was getting her leash all wound up. I tried to calm her down by talking softly to her, but she wouldn’t listen. The more she ran and jumped around the perch, the shorter and tighter the leash was getting until she was in a complete stranglehold and unable to move or breathe! I quickly ran out there with my scissors, and even though she fought me, she finally allowed me to help her. So I cut the leash from around her neck. She slumped down and started breathing deeply. I had saved her life! If I had not been at that window at that moment to see Pancha and her predicament, she would have
died from such a foolish accident!
The monkey is like us when we want the freedom to go our own way and do our own thing. The more she frantically tried to get free from her leash and perch, the more the leash tightened around her neck and cut off her oxygen. When she finally surrendered to my help, I was able to untangle the leash, loosen it from around her neck, and set her free from what could have been a fatal accident. Do we ignore God’s soft, gentle voice trying to get our attention? Do we fight God when He’s trying to help us?
God can save us from many unhappy and unfortunate decisions, if we make the right decision to follow Him and His way. The Bible says in Psalm 18:30, “As for God, His way is perfect…” So I just figure if I choose God’s way, then my way will be perfect, too! If we surrender like the monkey did, and if we allow God to help and guide us, our lives will be a whole lot better and easier. We think we’re old enough and smart enough to make our own decisions…but are we? Do we know how our decisions will affect our future? Do we know how our decisions will affect others around us? Do we know what’s up ahead for tomorrow or the next day or the next year? Well, guess what? We don’t, but God does! And if we listen to Him and follow Him, He’ll lead us down the right path. As it says in Psalm 23, He’ll provide for us, lead
and guide us, restore our peace, be with us all along life’s way, comfort us, protect us, and overflow us with His goodness and mercy.
God is always close by, watching and listening for our cry for help. He’s always ready to help us and to guide us, if we will let Him. •
They are with Christian Resort Ministries, which provides non-denominational worship services in RV resorts throughout the RGV. You may contact Dennis and Paula Key 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.
Things I Have Learned
A somewhat random and reckless look at life from a fairly old guy
by Bill Ward
Today’s Wisdom: Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall. ~King Solomon
A couple years ago, I was out on my favorite lake fishing when the rain moved in. I figured it was time to leave, so I headed for the dock. By the time I got there, it was raining pretty hard, making the dock very slippery. It had not actually occurred to me that the dock was slippery, and in my haste, I jumped from the boat fully expecting to stick the landing and head for the car. Faster than I could have thought about what was happening, I was airborne. In the split second of rational thought I was allowed, “This can’t be good!” came to mind. Then I became very wet. I had hit my head on the front of the boat on the way down, but I didn’t know that yet. Instead, the first thing that occurred to
me as I stood up in the water and looked around was, “Who saw me take a dive?” I was relieved to find no one around.
In that moment of gut reaction, it was not my injury or my wet clothes that concerned me; it was my pride. I didn’t want anyone to see me in my embarrassing moment, when, in fact, the presence of someone close by might have been a lifesaver if the blow on the way down had been more severe.
One of the things I have lear ned is that we don’t like to be seen in any state of imperfection. That is perfectly fine if we are talking about make-up or combed hair and attractive clothing. It isn’t so fine when we need a helping hand and are too proud to ask for it.
I saw it often in both my careers. As a police officer, I even arrested quite a few people who made poor decisions based on pride. Actually, I guess sometimes pride it-
self is a poor decision. The old saying goes: Pride goes before destruction. We are all going to fall or fail sometimes, one way or another. If pride after the fall keeps us from the help we need, well, that’s just foolish.
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.
Pride After the Fall
Paula Key is the wife of Chaplain Dennis Key, who serves at Winter Ranch RV Resort in Alamo.
