Issuu

LOVE SEA TURTLES?

Agreements signed to boost and expand on sea turtle conservation!

UPCOMING EVENTS!

Check out our monthly listings of what’s happening in the RGV!

SOME LIKE IT HOT!

Junior League of McAllen, Inc. shares a delicious recipe for pan de polvo!

Welcome Home See details on page 4.

See calendar on page 8.

Try their recipe on page 6.

RIO GRANDE VALLEY

August 2016

• • • your official connection to the rio grande valley • • •

Winter Differently This Year:

Make South Texas Rio Grande Valley the Difference Maker!

ugust, 2016, is the month I have dreaded for the last 18 years. If you’ve read my columns, you understand why. If not, well.....this month we will pack up my baby girl and get her settled into college life at the University of Texas at Austin. (Hook ‘em!) I don’t think it has completely hit me yet, although this summer has been a busy one, so there hasn’t been too much idle time to think about it. I’m excited about this next chapter for her. Oh, to be eighteen again! There are so many things I would do differently and so many things I wouldn’t change for any amount of money. But if given the chance, I’d be a different person than who I am today....which may or may not be a good thing. I take comfort in knowing that we have taught her to give thought to decisions she’ll make, to have patience, to be kind to others, and to work hard for what she wants in life. I’m not worried about her at all, honestly. She’ll be just fine. Her parents, on the other hand, well, that’s a different story entirely. Luckily, I have work to do--and a whole lot of it. With Winter Texan season right around the corner, I will soon have more things to see and do than I will have time for in a day! The month of August will be a difficult one, that’s for sure. Transitioning to my ‘new normal’ might take awhile, but I look forward to all that lies ahead! • We’re just connecting the dots,

Kristi

- Part II -

by Tony Ortiz, Regional Manager, Equity LifeStyle Properties, Inc. (If you missed Part 1, you’ll find it in our July 2016 monthly issue.)

Secure Season Subscriptions

for VSO 65th Anniversary Season by September 22 Special to Welcome Home RGV

The

Valley Symphony Orchestra and Chorale and Maestro Peter Dabrowski invite you to join us in celebrating our 65th year of providing quality symphonic music to the Rio Grande Valley by purchasing season tickets as either a renewal patron or as a new subscription. The new symphony season commences in September and culminates in April 2017. The six major works concerts included in the season subscription will take place in two outstanding new performing arts venues. The first three concerts will be performed at the Academic Performing Arts Complex on the UTRGV Campus in Edinburg. The remaining concerts are scheduled at the new McAllen Performing Arts Center (MPAC), beginning with Concert IV - Star Wars and Galactic Pops on Friday, February 3, 2017. A season subscription package includes the six VSO major works concerts featuring the full orchestra, with appearances by the symphony chorale on two of the concerts -- the always popular holiday Concert III - A Touch of Frost set for November 18

at UTRGV and Concert V – Brahms with Opera scheduled for March 2, 2017, at the new MPAC. All seating is reserved, and selection of seating passes on from season to season on all renewing subscriptions (pending some restrictions). New subscriptions can be purchased now, with reserved seat selection, until the deadline of September 22. Season subscriptions are the most economical way to purchase symphony tickets, and a discount is applied that excludes extra fees and upcharges associated with single-ticket purchases. Season subscriptions will be sold until all seating is sold or until the first concert in September. Single tickets will be available for purchase of individual concerts starting on August 22. To buy your season tickets, visit the VSO Box Office, located at 200 South 10th St, Suite 104 (Chase Tower) in McAllen, call 956-661-1615, or go online to www.valleyorchestra. org today. The Box Office is open Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 12:00 noon and 1:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. •

“Those

places and things” are what draw seniors to South Texas. A favorite among residents and visitors is South Padre Island, which has popular landmarks and destinations like the Port Isabel Lighthouse and the Sea Turtle Rescue Center. The Sea Turtle Rescue Center is a nonprofit organization that helps to support and monitor the sea turtles’ harrowing first trip to the ocean. While the center’s mission is to rescue, rehabilitate, and release injured sea turtles, they also educate the public and assist with conservation efforts for all marine turtles. Other landmarks that attract Winter Texans include the Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge, the Santa Ana National Wildlife Refuge, and the Bentsen-Rio Grande Valley State Park. Local attractions, such as the Museum of South Texas, Falcon Dam Reservoir, Quinta Mazatlán, and many others are go-to places to explore. Deep in South Texas on the shores of the Gulf of Mexico is one of the Top 10 sportfishing destinations, Port Mansfield, according to Sport Fishing Magazine in 2014. Port Mansfield is a popular place to catch the famous “Colorado,” as the natives call the wily redfish. Other species, such as snook and snapper, are caught closer WINTER DIFFERENTLY PART II CONTINUED ON PAGE 15 >>

A SPECIAL THANK YOU TO OUR 2015-2016 SEASON SPONSORS

August 2016 • • • Welcome

Home RIO GRANDE VALLEY • • • your official connection to the rio grande valley

Thirteen o’Clock Theatre Opens Doors in McAllen Special to Welcome Home RGV

In the summer of 2008, a group

of theatre students from across the Upper Rio Grande Valley came together to put on a play. Over the next few years, as those same students--with growing theatre education from institutions across the country—returned to the Valley, the potential for the company became more and more evident. By 2012, the company was producing multiple shows, offering intensive acting classes, and doing much more in a short summer season. The company’s actors consisted of adults and college students, many of whom are now working professionally in Chicago, New York, and beyond. Thirteen o’Clock Theatre is proud to be making new strides in 2016. Now under the leadership of Artistic Director Jason Barrera and Executive Director Jonathan Torres, the company has received its 501(c)(3) status and has opened a studio to offer more educational programming and to provide consistent rehearsal and production space. After eight years of providing high quality theatre shows

Welcome Home

during the summer, the theatre will now run full-time, with the hopes of building partnerships, sponsorships and a donor base that will lead them into becoming McAllen’s professional theatre company. This summer, the company held three-week intensive acting classes for young students. The training is based on collegiate-level acting technique. In June, the company developed and presented a workshop of a new play titled Guadalupe. The play was written by Diego González

of Mission. The emotional and culturally relevant new play was well received by audiences who provided feedback to the playwright to be used for revisions as he prepares to submit the work for contests and festivals nationwide. In July, the company proudly presented their Main Stage production of Peter and the Starcatcher. The new Disney play had a Broadway run in 2012-2013, followed by a national tour, and the rights to the hilarious, adventure

Monthly e-Blasts

WINTER TEXAN

Kristi’s e-Blasts are sent monthly April - September 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

your official connection to the rio grande valley

Publisher Kristi Collier

kristi@welcomehomergv.com

Accounting Sharon Flores

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Administration Amie Gray

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Colette Brookins

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Sales & Marketing Cheryl Palacios

Metro McAllen Launches New Park and Ride

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Communications Director Matt Davis

Special to Welcome Home RGV

The

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Activity Coordinator Fran Adams

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Welcome Home

rio grande valley

219 W. Nolana, Ste A • McAllen, Texas 78504

956-687-5115 www.welcomehomergv.com

© Copyright 2016 Welcome Home, Rio Grande Valley, LLC. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any electronic means without written permission from Welcome Home, Rio Grande Valley, LLC.

comedy just became available this year. In addition to original stories, Thirteen o’Clock Theatre has made it their mission to produce “regional premieres,” shows that have not previously been produced in the Rio Grande Valley. Thirteen o’Clock Theatre would like to invite everyone in the community to be a part of the company’s growth. You can support their goals by becoming a member and making a small monthly donation. If you would like to help in any capacity, please feel free to reach out to the group. You can email them at info@thirteenoclocktheatre. org or visit their website at www. thirteenoclocktheatre.org. You can also stay up to date with the company on Facebook. •

City of McAllen Transit Department announces the launch of its new complimentary Civic Center Park and Ride service to enhance access to the La Plaza Mall area. The City of McAllen’s Park and Ride service features continuous bus service with parking located at the former Civic Center site on 10th and Expressway 83 for shoppers and employees of the numerous retail centers in the area. The service is free and will run every 15 minutes on Fridays and Saturdays from 7:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. Riders will be dropped off and picked up at the intersection of Uvalde Street and South Main, as well as along Savannah between Main and Bicentennial. Citizens are encouraged to utilize this Park and Ride service to alleviate congestion

and parking issues currently being faced in the area. “We feel that this new Park and Ride service will allow quick access to the mall and surrounding shopping centers for all walks of life,” said City of McAllen Transit Director Mario Delgado. “Construction in the area has affected congestion, as well as parking availability, and we hope this service can make it easier for the public to access that area of town.” The service is launching in anticipation of the busy summer months as well as the coming holiday season. For more information, contact 956-681-3510. •

Welcome

Home RGV has three ways to join the conversation on Facebook. Our WHRGV 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. Finally, our latest addition is our Winter Texans RGV group. Member parks and business partners can send event fliers to us at news@welcomehomergv.com, and we will be happy to post them on our social media sites any time! Perks for Partners! •

www.facebook.com/whrgv www.facebook.com/wintertexan www.facebook.com/groups/wintertexansrgv

www.welcomehomergv.com • • • August 2016

Those Great Big Yellow Butterflies! by Anita Westervelt, Rio Grande Valley Chapter, Texas Master Naturalist

wet year in the Valley brings more native plants to flower. The more flowering plants, the more butterflies. It’s a banner year already with this year’s abundant nectar. Some of my favorites are Phoebis Sulphurs, the very large yellow butterflies. Cloudless Sulphur, Phoebis sennae, Large Orange Sulphur, Phoebis agarithe, and Orange-barred Sulphur, Phoebis philea are three of our big yellows. The Cloudless Sulphur is the paler yellow of the three, with more distinguishing wing marks and a rim of brown fringe. It measures nearly two inches from top of forewing to bottom of hindwing when perching.

Come visit Mustre Dental Clinic - the people’s favorite dental office in Nuevo Progreso.

Excellence in Dentistry.

Friendly and Professional Service. With over 30 years in town, we have become one of the most, if not, the most trusted dental office. All of our dentists are certified and highly qualified to do dental work that you will be satisfied with. We welcome you to our office Monday-Saturday from 8:00am to 6:00pm and Sundays from 8:00am to 12:00pm. Stop by today or give us a call for more information.

Orange-barred Sulphur on hibiscus by Anita Westervelt

The Large Orange Sulphur is a deep yellow, and the Orange-barred Sulphur an even deeper yellow with a blush of orange on the hind wings. The Orange-barred Sulpher is the

largest of these three. Recognized as uncommon in Texas, but a regular in extreme South Texas, the male has broad orange bars on the hind wings that flash an unmistakable orange color in flight. Butterfly identification isn’t always easy. Butterflies have four wings-two on each side, the forewing and the hindwing. The upper side and underside of each wing usually has different patterns. Newly emerged butterflies are considered fresh while older ones may look worn or faded, and the edges of their hind wings may be somewhat ragged. Males and females often differ in pattern. Sulphurs perch with wings closed, usually only showing their upper sides during flight. Many of the Valley’s more than 300 recorded butterfly species will nectar with wings spread, occasionally closing their wings, which allows photographers to capture the same species in closedand open-wing position. Many butterflies are easy to photograph when drawing nectar. Not so with these three Sulphurs. They flit quickly from flower to flower and are off again to neighboring plants and trees and out of sight with an attention span of a curious kitten. Butterflies find nectar on most anything that blooms, both native and non-native plants. Excellent native nectar sources include Texas lantana, Turk’s cap and fall-blooming mistflower. Non-native plants with excellent nectar sources that are available locally include Poinciana bush, cape honeysuckle, and hibiscus. •

Some Great People and Their Cars at the Lakewood Car Show Special to Welcome Home RGV

At this summer’s Lakewood Car Show, there were some really great people and their cars, too. We enjoy this event every year and appreciate the enthusiastic participants. •

August 2016 • • • Welcome

Home RIO GRANDE VALLEY • • • your official connection to the rio grande valley

Gladys Porter Zoo, Acuario de Veracruz, and Universidad de San Nicolas de Hidalgo by Dr. Patrick Burchfield

Sign Agreements to Boost Sea Turtle Conservation

On June 10, officials at the Gladys

Porter Zoo signed two separate collaborative agreements with Acuario de Veracruz and Universidad Michoacana de San Nicolás de Hidalgo in order to strengthen and expand the zoo’s sea turtle conservation efforts in the Gulf of Mexico and along Mexico’s Pacific Coast. The agreements will develop technological and academic exchanges in the areas of environmental education, conservation, and noninvasive research through each institution’s respective sea turtle conservation program. One of the main objectives is to fulfill the missions of all three organizations while promoting international cooperation and support for sea turtle conservation efforts. Directly targeted are the Kemp´s ridley (Lepidochelys kempii) and green sea turtle (Chelonia mydas) populations in the Gulf of Mexico, as well as the leatherback sea turtle (Dermochelys coriacea) population along Mexico’s Pacific Coast. All sea turtle species that live in the Gulf of Mexico, including the Kemp´s

ridley and the green sea turtle, are listed by the International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources (IUCN) as “critically endangered.” These are truly binational species, since South Texas in the U.S. and Tamaulipas and Veracruz in Mexico have nesting, foraging, and developmental habitats for both. In the near future, the zoo plans to join the University of Michoacán in the expansion of efforts to aid the Eastern Pacific leatherback, which has been identified as one of most at-risk

species in the world and imminently faces extinction. Its population has declined by more than 97 percent since the 1980s. Because threats to this population have not ceased, the IUCN has predicted a decline of nearly 100 percent by 2040, which is only one generation from present. The Gladys Porter Zoo will also continue to work with university personnel and local communities for the continued recovery of the black sea turtle (Chelonia mydas agassizi); like the Kemp’s ridley, it is on the road toward recovery. Incidentally, the Kemp’s ridley and black sea turtle

projects began in 1978 under the supervision of the late Jack Woody of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and his Mexican counterparts. Due to Jack’s hard work and perseverance, both species now have a chance for survival. Ongoing collaborative efforts will include working together to support the conservation needs of all sea turtle species and their habitats where the institutions have a presence. Identifying and assessing action items for conservation partnerships are part of the plan, both in the U.S. and in Mexico. These institutions will also encourage participation from the AZA’s SAFE program, known as “Saving Animals from Extinction,” in the development of recovery plans and actions on behalf of endangered sea turtle species in the Gulf of Mexico and along Mexico’s Pacific Coast. There are limitless endangered plants and animals that rely on conservation assistance if they are to survive. However, identifying and maximizing opportunities that have the potential for sustained, long-term success is critical, particularly in light of present funding limitations. •

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www.welcomehomergv.com • • • August 2016

Helping to break ground for a new emergency room at Harlingen Medical Center are, from left, Harlingen Mayor Chris Boswell; David Glassburn, HMC chief financial officer; Amy Flores, HMC chief nursing officer; Brenda Ivory, president and CEO at HMC; HMC Governing Board members Dr. Cecil Simmons, Dr. Hugo Blake (who also serves as chief of staff for HMC), Michael Scott, and Michael Rinaldi; and Texas State Representative Eddie Lucio III.

Celebrating the groundbreaking for a new Emergency Room at Harlingen Medical Center are, from left, Connie Manley, RN, BSN, Emergency Room director at HMC; Dr. Ed Mason, emergency medicine physician; Dr. Michael Mohun, medical director for emergency services at HMC; and David Salas, RN, clinical manager for the HMC Emergency Room.

Groundbreaking Held for Expansion of Harlingen Medical Center Project includes new emergency room, cardiac catheterization laboratories, gastrointestinal labs, operating rooms Special to Welcome Home RGV

new emergency room for Harlingen Medical Center -- along with new cardiac catheterization laboratories for heart patients, new endoscopy laboratories to treat gastro-intestinal problems, and additional operating rooms for surgical procedures – broke ground July 6. The groundbreaking took place in front of the award-winning and nationally recognized hospital – near its current Emergency Room entrance. Speakers at the ceremony included State Representative Eddie Lucio III, Harlingen Mayor Chris Boswell, and Brenda Ivory, president and Chief Executive Officer at Harlingen Medical Center. “This is a major expansion, which will allow us to better meet the needs of our growing community and to serve more people with the quality, compassionate, and personalized type of care that our patients have come to expect from Harlingen Medical Center,” Ivory said. When completed, the new ER will include 22 beds or “bays,” including two trauma bays, an isolation room, and two “fast-track” bays designed for rapid treatment of patients, said Dr. Michael Mohun, medical director and trauma director of the Emergency Room at Harlingen Medical Center, a Level IV Trauma Center hospital. “Harlingen Medical Center is known for its rapid, efficient delivery of medical care,” Dr. Mohun said. “This expansion will allow patients to continue to receive emergency treatment when they need it, from the most experienced board-certified emergency physicians available in Cameron County.” The expanded Cardiovascular

Center at Harlingen Medical Center, once completed, will boast three state-of-the-art cardiac catheterization laboratories for patients who need lifesaving treatments to open a blocked blood vessel to their heart. Cardiologists at Harlingen Medical Center have received national recognition for heart treatment, which in some cases includes inserting a tiny metal device, called a stent, and / or a tiny balloon to open clogged arteries. “We are looking forward to this expansion so we can treat more heart and vascular patients in the Rio Grande Valley,” said Linda Bull, director of the Cardiac Catheterization Laboratory at Harlingen Medical Center. The project will also include expansion of Harlingen Medical Center’s Radiology and Imaging Department. This area will grow with an “Imaging Suite,” where additional CT-scans, x-rays and ultrasound procedures may be performed. In addition, the growth will include a more sizeable operating room, which will provide more space for various types of surgeries, including orthopedic surgery (such as knee and hip replacements) and trauma surgeries. The project also includes relocation of a “cystoscopy room” (for patients with bladder problems or needing surgery for their urinary tract) to the Operating Room Suites. Julie Bannert, director of Surgical Services at Harlingen Medical Center, said this, in turn, will allow for an upgrade to the hospital’s endoscopy rooms, where patients receive potentially lifesaving colonoscopy screenings, as well as diagnosis and

treatment of various disorders of the stomach and intestines. She added that the renovations will also allow for more beds in the hospital’s growing “Day Patient” area, for patients needing minor surgeries or procedures, which do not require overnight hospitalization.

For more information on the expansion project, please visit www. HarlingenMedicalCenter.com or contact Manny Chacon, regional director of business development and marketing for Harlingen Medical Center, at 956-365-1848 or via email at mchacon@PrimeHealthCare.com. •

August 2016 • • • Welcome

Home RIO GRANDE VALLEY • • • your official connection to the rio grande valley

Summer Fun and Activities at Trophy Gardens and Winter Ranch Special to Welcome Home RGV

Trophy Gardens and Winter Ranch

are two sister parks that are side-byside. Although both parks love their Winter Texans, when they go home in the spring, we can begin our summer fun. With fewer people in our parks, we become even closer over the summer months and truly enjoy our summer activities. The two parks play together. We have numerous card games played throughout the week. Once a week we get together for golf, happy hour, penny bingo and card bingo. So we can remember which park we are members of, we still have our park meetings and enjoy an outing once a week to a designated restaurant. But the most fun we have is celebrating the summer holidays. We have a joint potluck, and then we play bean bag baseball. The game is always very competitive, but we do remain friends when it is all over.

Some Like It Hot with Junior League of McAllen, Inc. Special to Welcome Home RGV

Most of the games are played until the bottom of the ninth. Although both teams say the other has better players, it is pure luck to throw the bag through the Hole in One instead of the two OUT holes. The winner gets to keep the trophy until the next holiday. So far this summer, Winter Ranch has won both Memorial Day and Fourth of July, so Trophy Gardens has got to win Labor Day so they can keep the trophy all winter and brag to our winter friends. •

Mexicali Avocado Dip • 1 (10-oz.) can shopped tomatoes and chilies, drained • 1 envelope onion soup mix • 2 (3-oz.) packages cream cheese, softened • 3 avocadoes, mashed • 1 Tbsp. Worcestershire sauce • 1 tsp. lemon juice • 1/8 tsp. salt • 1 package tostado chips Combine all ingredients except tostado chips until well mixed. Serve with chips.

Randy Hoelscher: The Border Cook Special to Welcome Home RGV

Mexican Rice

The Junior League of McAllen, Inc. envisions significantly improving the quality of life of the children and youth of our community by preserving the innocence of childhood, encouraging responsibility, and promoting a safe environment. Cookbooks can be purchased through the Junior League website at www.juniorleaguemcallen.org, as well as at Barn White and Quips & Quotes in McAllen.

I decided I needed a Mexican rice recipe since it is served with every meal

in Mexico or South Texas, so the search was on! After reviewing dozens of recipes, I made this Mexican rice dish for a group. It got great reviews. First, a little about rice. Most rice you find in the grocery store is long grain “enriched rice” - which is just fine for our purpose. There is, however, a problem with it. To bring the nutritional value of the milled rice product up to that of whole grain (brown) rice, enriched rice is coated with thiamine, niacin, and iron, and is additionally fortified with folic acid. This coating makes the rice sticky. You can rinse the rice under running water for a minute or two before using it to remove the stickiness, if you wish. This step is optional. Rice gets more flavorful if you toast it. If you rinse the rice, drain it really well and melt a tablespoon of butter in your pan. Add the rice, and increase the heat gradually until the rice dries. Stir almost constantly until it becomes lightly browned. Then add the broth and other ingredients. Enjoy! Buen Apetito! •

Picnic Possibilities: Most

Great Food to Eat Outdoors

of us bake cookies; this recipe shows us there are alternatives, especially in the summer months when you don’t want to light the oven. •

by Sandy Olson

Frying Pan Cookies Mexican Rice

• 1 ¼ cup rice • 1 can diced tomatoes • 1 Tbsp. butter (for toasting the rice – optional – see above explanation) • 1 tsp. chili powder • 1 tsp. paprika • ½ tsp. oregano • ½ tsp. ground cumin (or comino) seeds • ½ tsp. minced garlic • 1 cup water with a chicken bouillon cube OR 1 cup chicken broth Bring water to a boil. Add all other ingredients. Return to a boil. Cover and simmer for about 25 minutes until rice is cooked. Remove from heat. Let stand 5 minutes and fluff with a fork before serving. Randy Hoelscher is a transplanted Texan and half-time RGV resident. A long-time cooking enthusiast, he enjoys being “The Border Cook,” spreading the word about Mexican and Tex-Mex Cuisine on his web site - TheBorderCook.com - as well as on social media.

• • • • • • • •

1 cup sugar 1½ cups chopped pitted dates 2 eggs 2 cups Rice Krispies® cereal ½ cup chopped pecans 1 teaspoon vanilla 1 small can flaked coconut Pinch of salt

Mix together in a heavy frying pan over low heat eggs, sugar, and dates. Stir constantly, mashing the dates as they cook. Cook until thick. Let cool and add the pecans, cereal, salt, and vanilla. Wet your hands and roll into small balls. Roll the balls in the flaked coconut (or you can use more pecans, finely chopped). Yields about 4 dozen delicious cookies. Sandy Olson, lifelong foodie, restaurant reviewer, cooking teacher. Summer Iowan; Winter Texan. You can contact Sandy at midwestfoodie@gmail.com.

www.welcomehomergv.com • • • August 2016

Former Client Cooks for the Community Special to Welcome Home RGV

When

Rosa De La Mora enrolled in The Salvation Army’s Shelter Program in June of 2005, she never imagined she would become the Soup Kitchen’s head cook and supervisor two years later. During her stay at the shelter, De La Mora regularly volunteered in the kitchen. Then, with the help of Salvation Army advisory board member Joe De Marino, she eventually enrolled in and completed a six-month Culinary Arts program at South Texas College. “I have always given all I can through my work here at The Salvation Army,” De La Mora said of her transformational journey. For the past 11 years, De La Mora—along with her staff— has helped prepare thousands of meals for the hungry and homeless. In 2015 alone, the kitchen served over 75,055 meals for shelter clients and the community, not including meals prepared for refugees and disaster victims, children enrolled in our youth program, and civic groups. “God gives me strength,” said

Rosa De La Mora and Joe De Marino, upon Rosa’s completion of the Culinary Arts program at South Texas College

De La Mora when asked how she manages the kitchen. “Volunteers and donations have all been instrumental in making our feeding program possible, as well.” •

Our Wish List

We know you care about meeting the needs of our community. In case you are able and willing to contribute, we have provided a list of some of our needs and thank you in advance for your help! Kitchen (particularly during disaster relief): • White sandwich bread • Cooked ham slices • Cheese slices • Condiments (mayo/mustard/ketchup) • Pic-Nik packets (plastic utensils with salt and pepper packets) • Hamburger patties and buns • Hot dogs and buns Shelter: • Unisex disposable razors • ravel-size shaving cream • White twin-size fitted and cover sheets (QTY: 30) • White standard-size pillowcases (QTY: 30) • Plastic lining for pillows (QTY: 30) Property: • U.S. outdoor flags (3x5) • TX outdoor flags (3x5) • 4 industrial circular standing fans • 3 commercial cooling fans for warehouse • Red metal roof in front of building needs spray paint • Need help leveling ground with dirt in our rear property (in order to use for events and additional parking space) • Bicycle rack for shelter clients and visitors • 2 pallet jacks Seasonal: • Christmas toys and jackets for needy children • Adopt an Angel starting in November Monetary donations and volunteers are always welcome! Please call 956682-1468 for more information. Thank you!

August 2016 • • • Welcome

Home RIO GRANDE VALLEY • • • your official connection to the rio grande valley

DANCE ENTERTAINMENT & SHOWS

CALENDAR OF EVENTS MONTH OF

August 1 - 31, 2016 MONDAY, AUGUST 1, 2016

Here Be Dragons, 09:00 AM, International Museum of Art & Science, 1900 W Nolana Ave, McAllen. “Here Be Dragons!” exhibit! For information call 956-682-0123. Indigenous Weaving: Native Objects from Taiwan, 09:00 AM, International Museum of Art & Science, 1900 W Nolana Ave, McAllen. “Indigenous Weaving” featuring 40 native weavings from Taiwanese indigenous people. For information call 956-682-0123. IMAS Summer Library Programs, 09:00 AM, International Museum of Art & Science, 1900 W Nolana Ave, McAllen. Fun, Fitness and Wellness! Animals in Motion. For information call 956-682-0123. Summer Jam, 05:30 PM, Enchanted Valley Ranch, 7300 Monroe St, Mission. Great music, dancing if you want, intermission we have coffee and cookies. No meal, but you can bring food in, we sell ice cream bars,

AUGUST 2016

Boomerang Billy’s Every Saturday and Sunday 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM (Weather Permitting)

Louie’s Backyard Every Tuesday 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM Palm Street Pier Every Wednesday 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM Every Saturday 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM TIFT Registration Party

SALES

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 the third Monday of each month by 5:00pm. •

water and soda. For information call 956-580-6938 or 612-310-3484. Magic Valley Chorus Of Sweet Adelines International, 07:00 PM, St. Mark’s United Methodist Church, McAllen. For information call Shirley 956661-9926 or Janet 956-682-8245.

TUESDAY, AUGUST 2, 2016

11:00AM - 8:00PM Wednesday - Sunday ENTERTAINMENT

Live Music

Sundays 3:00PM - 7:00PM Available for Large or Small Events Weddings, Parties & Meetings

Call 956-581-1033 for more information!

TRY OUR PORK TENDERLOIN RIVERSIDE DREAMER RIVER TOURS

Call for Tour Days and Times

South Padre Island Convention Center

August 4 • 5:00 PM Ladies Kingfish Tournament Party

South Padre Island Convention Center

August 12 • 5:30 PM Llano Grande Lake Park Resort & Country Club BYOB Happy Hour and Dance August 15 • 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM • Mercedes, TX OPEN TO THE PUBLIC Available for private parties, dances, and functions at all RV Resorts in the Valley throughout the summer months!

MEALS

Looking for something to do here in the Rio Grande Valley? Our calendar of events has been the

OPEN

SHOWS ON SOUTH PADRE ISLAND

JAM SESSIONS

Reservations Required Passenger Minimum for Departures: 15 for 1 Hour • 25 for 2 Hours Boat Enclosed Weather Protected

PRIVATE TOURS AVAILABLE CALL TODAY 956-581-4477 956-581-1033 • www.ontheriver.net 214 E. Chimney Rd. • Mission X Riverside in-MissionTx

Diabetes Management Class, 01:00 PM, 3rd Floor, McAllen Medical Center. East Classroom, classes are provided in English and Spanish every other week. For information call Mary Escaname at 956-971-5850. Overeaters Anonymous, 06:00 PM, Unity Church of the Valley, 301 E Polk Ave, Pharr. Are you having problems with food? Come join us for an informative support group on how to help control your cravings. For information call Carmen 956-475-3791. Entertainment w/Leslie Blasing, 07:00 PM, Louie’s Backyard, 2305 Laguna Blvd, South Padre Island. For more information call 956-761-4347.

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 3, 2016

Volunteer Mornings, 08:30 AM, Quinta Mazatlan, 600 Sunset Dr, McAllen. Join our volunteer coordinator for a fun morning of work and learning in our native gardens! Students, earn your service hours at Quinta Mazatlan! We are also a site certified for Texas Master Naturalist hours. For more information call 956-681-3370. Maxan Street Farmers’ Market, 04:00 PM, The Garden, Port Isabel. The Garden on Maxan Street in Port Isabel’s Lighthouse Square. Additional parking at Pirate’s Landing. For information and vendor opportunities, call 956-433-9675. Entertainment w/Leslie Blasing, 06:00 PM, Palm Street Pier Bar & Grill, 204 Palm St, South Padre Island.For more information call 956-761-4347. Dance w/Bottomline Band, 07:00 PM, Tip O’Texas RV Resort, 101 E Sioux Rd, Pharr. $5.00 pp. BYOB. For information call 956-787-6461.

THURSDAY, AUGUST 4, 2016

learn space science & technology through special activities. For information call 956-682-0123. TIFT Registration Party w/ Leslie Blasing, 05:00 PM, South Padre Island Convention, 7355 Padre Blvd, South Padre Island. For more information call 956-761-4347. US Too Prostate Cancer Support Group, 07:00 PM, Texas Oncology, McAllen. US TOO Prostate Cancer support group, Spouse/partner are welcome to attend. For information call 956-687-5150. Thursday Family Night: Bubble Concert in the Park, 07:00 PM, Quinta Mazatlan, 600 Sunset Dr, McAllen. $3.00 pp, bring the family for an evening of entertainment. Generously sponsored by Freels Orthodontics. For information call 956-681-3370. Live Entertainment w/Trio Tres en Punto, 08:00 PM, San Miguelito Restaurant, 6101 N 23rd St, McAllen. Live Latin music, romantic music hits from the 40’s to the 60’s. For information call 956-862-6763.

FRIDAY, AUGUST 5, 2016

Country Jam Session, 12:30 PM, Casa Del Sol, 400 N Val Verde Rd, Donna. Lunch available. For information call 956-464-2272. McAllen Artwalk @ Archer Park, 06:00 PM, 101 N. Broadway, McAllen. Arts and craft vendors, plus the live outdoor music series Music After Hours, every month. Free and open to the public. www.mcallen.net/residents/arts.aspx Dance w/SweetWater Band, 07:00 PM, Texas Trails RV Resort, 501 W Owassa Rd, Pharr. $5.00 pp. For information call 956-787-6538. Live Entertainment w/Trio Tres en Punto, 08:00 PM, Las Margaritas, 3505 TX107, Edinburg. Free admission. For information call 956-862-6763.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 6, 2016

www.welcomehomergv.com • • • August 2016

DANCE ENTERTAINMENT & SHOWS your service hours at Quinta Mazatlan! We are also a site certified for Texas Master Naturalist hours. For more information call 956-681-3370. Brownsville’s Farmers Market, 09:00 AM, Ringgold Street & E 6th St, Brownsville. Brownsville has its own farmer’s market each week, across the street from Gladys Porter Zoo. For information call 956-882-5896. Feature Creature: Nature Olympics, 10:00 AM, Quinta Mazatlan, 600 Sunset Dr, McAllen. $3.00 pp, visit the Discovery Museum for a presentation each month for a special creature feature. For information call 956-681-3370. The Market @ McAllen, 10:00 AM, McAllen Public Library, 4001 N 23rd St, McAllen. Local farmers, ranchers, chefs, and artisans each contributing to the healthy life style changes our community desperately needs. Country Jam Lunch!, 11:00 AM, Green Gate Grove, 700 N Bentsen Palm Dr, Mission. OPEN TO THE PUBLIC. For more information call 956-584-1561. Country Jam, 12:30 PM, Green Gate Grove, 700 N Bentsen Palm Dr, Mission. OPEN TO THE PUBLIC. Lunch served at 11:00 am. For more information call 319-795-8101. Entertainment w/Leslie Blasing, 01:00 PM, Boomerang Billy’s, 2612 Gulf Blvd, South Padre Island. For more information call 956-761-4347. Feature Creature: Nature Olympics, 02:00 PM, Quinta Mazatlan, 600 Sunset Dr, McAllen. $3.00 pp, visit the Discovery Museum for a presentation each month for a special creature feature. For information call 956-681-3370. Harlingen Farmers Market, 03:00 PM, Downtown Harlingen, ‘A’ Street. The Market is on Jackson and Monroe, behind Grimsells and in front of New York Deli. Producers supply residents the freshest locally grown food, come take advantage of the best Harlingen has to offer! Dance w/SweetWater, 07:00 PM, Trophy Gardens RV Resort, 800 Highway 495, Alamo $5.00 pp. For information call 956-685-5300. Entertainment w/Leslie Blasing, 07:00 PM, Palm Street Pier Bar & Grill, 204 Palm St, South Padre Island. For more information call 956-761-4347.

SUNDAY, AUGUST 7, 2016

Port Isabel Antique & Flea Market, 09:00 AM, Beulah Lee Park, W Queen Isabella Blvd, Port Isabel. 956-455-6798. Free admission. Vendor fees apply. Church Service, 10:00 AM, Paradise Resort Estates, 301 E Hall Acres Rd, Pharr. For information call 956-787-1521. Rio Valley Church of Nazarene, 10:45

AM, 1400 W Nolana Ave, McAllen. Please visit our website rvcnaz.org for more information. We are a mixed congregation including Spanish Speaking, as well as Winter Texans. Pastor Kevin Sheese. Farmer’s Market @ The Shores, 11:00 AM, 8500 Padre Blvd, South Padre Island. Fresh produce, fresh eggs, fresh seafood! Healthy shopping for healthy foods. Located at ‘The Shores’ north of SPI Convention Centre. Live Entertainment w/Trio Tres en Punto, 12:30 PM, El Ahuehuete Restaurant, 2708 N Texas Blvd, Weslaco. Free admission, live Latin music. For information call 956-862-6763. Entertainment w/Leslie Blasing, 01:00 PM, Boomerang Billy’s, 2612 Gulf Blvd, South Padre Island. For more information call 956-761-4347. RC Racing, 02:00 PM, Fun-N-Sun RV Resort, Zillock Rd, San Benito.

MONDAY, AUGUST 8, 2016

Summer Jam, 05:30 PM, Enchanted Valley Ranch, 7300 Monroe St, Mission. Great music, dancing if you want, intermission we have coffee and cookies. No meal, but you can bring food in, we sell ice cream bars, water and soda. For information call 956-580-6938 or 612-310-3484. Magic Valley Chorus Of Sweet Adelines International, 07:00 PM, St. Mark’s United Methodist Church, McAllen. For information call Shirley 956661-9926 or Janet 956-682-8245.

TUESDAY, AUGUST 9, 2016

Volunteer in the Park, 08:30 AM, McAllen Nature Center, 4101 W Business 83, McAllen. All equipment is provided; gloves are limited. Volunteers are encouraged to bring their own work gloves. Projects include weeding, watering, planting, raking and more. For information call 956-681-3333. Diabetes Management Class, 01:00 PM, 3rd Floor, McAllen Medical Center. East Classroom, classes are provided in English and Spanish every other week. For information call Mary Escaname at 956-971-5850. Overeaters Anonymous, 06:00 PM, Unity Church of the Valley, 301 E Polk Ave, Pharr. Are you having problems with food? Come join us for an informative support group on how to help control your cravings. For information call Carmen 956-475-3791. Entertainment w/Leslie Blasing, 07:00 PM, Louie’s Backyard, 2305 Laguna Blvd, South Padre Island. For more information call 956-761-4347.

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 10, 2016

Volunteer Mornings, 08:30 AM, Quinta Mazatlan, 600 Sunset Dr, McAllen. Join our volunteer coordinator for a

JAM SESSIONS

MEALS

fun morning of work and learning in our native gardens! Students, earn your service hours at Quinta Mazatlan! We are also a site certified for Texas Master Naturalist hours. For more information call 956-681-3370. Social Hour w/Diego, 03:00 PM, Siesta Village, 2712 S International Blvd, Weslaco. Chili, hot dogs, nachos, popcorn and soft drinks available. For information, call 956969-3558 or 952-200-8646. Maxan Street Farmers’ Market, 04:00 PM, The Garden, Port Isabel. The Garden on Maxan Street in Port Isabel’s Lighthouse Square. Additional parking at Pirate’s Landing. For information and vendor opportunities, call 956-433-9675. Entertainment w/Leslie Blasing, 06:00 PM, Palm Street Pier Bar & Grill, 204 Palm St, South Padre Island. For more information call 956-761-4347. Dance w/Bottomline Band, 07:00 PM, Tip O’Texas RV Resort, 101 E Sioux Rd, Pharr. $5.00 pp, BYOB. For information call 956-787-6461.

THURSDAY, AUGUST 11, 2016

Volunteer in the Park, 08:30 AM,

SALES

McAllen Nature Center, 4101 W Business 83, McAllen. All equipment is provided; gloves are limited. Volunteers are encouraged to bring their own work gloves. Projects include weeding, watering, planting, raking and more. For information call 956-681-3333. Unique Open Mic Jam, 03:00 PM, Heritage Square, 300 S Bryan Rd, Mission. Free admission, music, comedy & poetry, no food available. For information call 563-340-6493. Stars & Skies Mysteries Party, 04:00 PM, International Museum of Art & Science, 1900 W Nolana Ave, McAllen. $7.00 pp, IMAS Stars & Skies encourage our community to learn space science & technology through special activities. For information call 956-682-0123. Thursday Family Night: Wildcat Tracks: One-Mile Family Walk, 07:00 PM, Quinta Mazatlan, 600 Sunset Dr, McAllen. $3.00 pp, bring the family for an evening of entertainment. Generously sponsored by Freels Orthodontics. For information call 956-681-3370. Live Entertainment w/Trio Tres en Punto,

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS CONTINUED ON PAGE 10 >>

August 2016 • • • Welcome

Home RIO GRANDE VALLEY • • • your official connection to the rio grande valley

DANCE ENTERTAINMENT & SHOWS

JAM SESSIONS

MEALS

SALES

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 9 08:00 PM, San Miguelito Restaurant, 6101 N 23rd St, McAllen. Live Latin music, romantic music hits from the 40’s to the 60’s. For information call 956-862-6763.

FRIDAY, AUGUST 12, 2016

Country Jam Session, 12:30 PM, Casa Del Sol, 400 N Val Verde Rd, Donna. Lunch available. For information call 956-464-2272. Ladies Kingfish Tournament Party w/ Leslie Blasing, 05:30 PM, South Padre Island Convention, 7355 Padre Blvd, South Padre Island. For more information call 956-761-4347. Dance w/Willie Knight, 06:00 PM, Jesus Martinez Post 93, American Legion, 910 W Expressway 83, Mission. Free admission. For information call 402-217-7973. Dance w/Jealous Heart, 07:00 PM, Texas Trails RV Resort, 501 W Owassa Rd, Pharr. $5.00 pp. For information call 956-787-6538. Live Entertainment w/Trio Tres en Punto, 08:00 PM, Las Margaritas, 3505 TX-107, Edinburg. Free admission. For information call 956-862-6763.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 13, 2016

required. $25.00, new location. For information call 956-648-4833. Brownsville’s Farmers Market, 09:00 AM, Ringgold Street & E 6th St, Brownsville. Brownsville has its own farmer’s market each week, across the street from Gladys Porter Zoo. For information call 956-882-5896. Feature Creature: Nature Olympics, 10:00 AM, Quinta Mazatlan, 600 Sunset Dr, McAllen. $3.00 pp, visit the Discovery Museum for a presentation each month for a special creature feature. For information call 956-681-3370. The Market @ McAllen, 10:00 AM, McAllen Public Library, 4001 N 23rd St, McAllen. Local farmers, ranchers, chefs, and artisans each contributing to the healthy life style changes our community desperately needs. Country Jam Lunch!, 11:00 AM, Green Gate Grove, 700 N Bentsen Palm Dr, Mission. OPEN TO THE PUBLIC. For more information call 956-584-1561. Country Jam, 12:30 PM, Green Gate Grove, 700 N Bentsen Palm Dr, Mission. OPEN TO THE PUBLIC. Lunch served at 11:00 am. For more information call 319-795-8101. Entertainment w/Leslie Blasing, 01:00 PM, Boomerang Billy’s, 2612 Gulf Blvd, South Padre Island. For more information call 956-761-4347. Feature Creature: Nature Olympics, 02:00 PM, Quinta Mazatlan, 600 Sunset Dr, McAllen. $3.00 pp, visit the Discovery Museum for a presentation each month for a special creature feature. For information call 956-681-3370. Harlingen Farmers Market, 03:00 PM, Downtown Harlingen, ‘A’ Street. The Market is on Jackson and Monroe, behind Grimsells and in front of New York Deli. Producers supply residents the freshest locally grown food. Come take advantage of the best Harlingen has to offer! Dance w/Hot Rodz, 07:00 PM, Trophy Gardens RV Resort, 800 Highway 495, Alamo $5.00 pp. For information call 956-685-5300. Entertainment w/Leslie Blasing, 07:00 PM, Palm Street Pier Bar & Grill, 204 Palm St, South Padre Island. For more information call 956-761-4347.

SUNDAY, AUGUST 14, 2016

Church Service, 10:00 AM, Paradise Resort Estates, 301 E Hall Acres Rd, Pharr. For information call 956-787-1521. Rio Valley Church of Nazarene, 10:45 AM, 1400 W Nolana Ave, McAllen. Please visit our website rvcnaz. org for more information. We are a mixed congregation including Spanish Speaking, as well as Winter Texans. Pastor Kevin Sheese. Farmer’s Market @ The Shores, 11:00 AM, 8500 Padre Blvd, South Padre Island. Fresh produce, fresh eggs, fresh seafood! Healthy shopping for

healthy foods. Located at ‘The Shores’ north of SPI Convention Centre. Live Entertainment w/Trio Tres en Punto, 12:30 PM, El Ahuehuete Restaurant, 2708 N Texas Blvd, Weslaco. Free admission, live Latin music. For information call 956-862-6763. Entertainment w/Leslie Blasing, 01:00 PM, Boomerang Billy’s, 2612 Gulf Blvd, South Padre Island. For more information call 956-761-4347. RC Racing, 02:00 PM, Fun-N-Sun RV Resort, Zillock Rd, San Benito.

MONDAY, AUGUST 15, 2016

Happy Hour w/ Leslie Blasing, 03:00 PM, Llano Grande Lake Park Resort & Country Club, 2215 East West Boulevard, Mercedes. Open to the public, BYOB. For information call 956-565-1506. Summer Jam, 05:30 PM, Enchanted Valley Ranch, 7300 Monroe St, Mission. Great music, dancing if you want, intermission we have coffee and cookies. No meal, but you can bring food in, we sell ice cream bars, water and soda. For information call 956-580-6938 or 612-310-3484. Magic Valley Chorus Of Sweet Adelines International, 07:00 PM, St. Mark’s United Methodist Church, McAllen. For information call Shirley 956661-9926 or Janet 956-682-8245.

TUESDAY, AUGUST 16, 2016

Volunteer in the Park, 08:30 AM, McAllen Nature Center, 4101 W Business 83, McAllen. All equipment is provided; gloves are limited. Volunteers are encouraged to bring their own work gloves. Projects include weeding, watering, planting, raking and more. For information call 956-681-3333. Diabetes Management Class, 01:00 PM, 3rd Floor, McAllen Medical Center. East Classroom, classes are provided in English and Spanish every other week. For information call Mary Escaname at 956-971-5850. Overeaters Anonymous, 06:00 PM, Unity Church of the Valley, 301 E Polk Ave, Pharr. Are you having problems with food? Come join us for an informative support group on how to help control your cravings. For information call Carmen 956-475-3791. Valley’s H.O.P.E. Stroke Support Group, 06:00 PM, Valley Baptist Medical Center in the Woodward Conference Room. The H.O.P.E. (Haven Offering Patient Encouragement) Stroke Support Group meets monthly in Harlingen at Valley Baptist Medical Center in the Woodward Conference Room. For more information call 888-902-5433. Entertainment w/Leslie Blasing, 07:00 PM, Louie’s Backyard, 2305 Laguna Blvd, South Padre Island. For more information call 956-761-4347.

www.welcomehomergv.com • • • August 2016

DANCE ENTERTAINMENT & SHOWS WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 17, 2016

Volunteer Mornings, 08:30 AM, Quinta Mazatlan, 600 Sunset Dr, McAllen. Join our volunteer coordinator for a fun morning of work and learning in our native gardens! Students, earn your service hours at Quinta Mazatlan! We are also a site certified for Texas Master Naturalist hours. For more information call 956-681-3370. Maxan Street Farmers’ Market, 04:00 PM, The Garden, Port Isabel. The Garden on Maxan Street in Port Isabel’s Lighthouse Square. Additional parking at Pirate’s Landing. For information and vendor opportunities, call 956-433-9675. Entertainment w/Leslie Blasing, 06:00 PM, Palm Street Pier Bar & Grill, 204 Palm St, South Padre Island. For more information call 956-761-4347. Dance w/Bottomline Band, 07:00 PM, Tip O’Texas RV Resort, 101 E Sioux Rd, Pharr. $5.00 pp. BYOB. For information call 956-787-6461.

THURSDAY, AUGUST 18, 2016

Volunteer in the Park, 08:30 AM, McAllen Nature Center, 4101 W Business 83, McAllen. All equipment is provided; gloves are limited. Volunteers are encouraged to bring their own work gloves. Projects include weeding, watering, planting, raking and more. For information call 956-681-3333. Unique Open Mic Jam, 03:00 PM, Heritage Square, 300 S Bryan Rd, Mission. Free admission, music, comedy & poetry, no food available,. For information call 563-340-6493. Alfresco Weslaco Music & Art, 06:00 PM, Downtown Weslaco, Weslaco. FEATURING: Marshall Law. Enjoy an evening of live jazz music, art displays, delicious food, sidewalk sales, and vendor booths in the heart of Downtown Weslaco on Texas Blvd. Grief Support Group Workshops, 06:30 PM, McAllen Medical Center, McAllen. The UT Health Science Center Allograft Resources Bereavement Support Department invites the community to attend monthly grief support workshops, which focus on helping families that need support after losing a loved one or friend. Live Entertainment w/Trio Tres en Punto, 08:00 PM, San Miguelito Restaurant, 6101 N 23rd St, McAllen. Live Latin music, romantic music hits from the 40’s to the 60’s. For information call 956-862-6763.

FRIDAY, AUGUST 19, 2016

Country Jam Session, 12:30 PM, Casa Del Sol, 400 N Val Verde Rd, Donna. Lunch available. For information call 956-464-2272. Dance w/Diego, 07:00 PM, Texas Trails RV Resort, 501 W Owassa Rd,

Pharr. $5.00 pp. For information call 956-787-6538. Live Entertainment w/Trio Tres en Punto, 08:00 PM, Las Margaritas, 3505 TX107, Edinburg. Free admission. For information call 956-862-6763.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 20, 2016

Bird Walks @ Resaca de la Palma, 08:30 AM, 1000 New Carmen Blvd, Brownsville. Travel by foot or on our new and amazingly quiet electric trams to reach our destinations. We have many different trails to venture onto that are relatively flat and ADA accessible. With 1,200 acres of lush, riparian woodlands we will also be birding by ear. For information call 956-350-2920. Volunteer Mornings, 08:30 AM, Quinta Mazatlan, 600 Sunset Dr, McAllen. Join our volunteer coordinator for a fun morning of work and learning in our native gardens! Students, earn your service hours at Quinta Mazatlan! We are also a site certified for Texas Master Naturalist hours. For more information call 956-681-3370. Brownsville’s Farmers Market, 09:00 AM, Ringgold Street & E 6th St, Brownsville. Brownsville has its own farmer’s market each week, across the street from Gladys Porter Zoo. For information call 956-882-5896. Feature Creature: Nature Olympics, 10:00 AM, Quinta Mazatlan, 600 Sunset Dr, McAllen. $3.00 pp, visit the Discovery Museum for a presentation each month for a special creature feature. For information call 956-681-3370. The Market @ McAllen, 10:00 AM, McAllen Public Library, 4001 N 23rd St, McAllen. Local farmers, ranchers, chefs, and artisans each contributing to the healthy life style changes our community desperately needs. Country Jam Lunch!, 11:00 AM, Green Gate Grove, 700 N Bentsen Palm Dr, Mission. OPEN TO THE PUBLIC. For more information call 956-584-1561. Country Jam, 12:30 PM, Green Gate Grove, 700 N Bentsen Palm Dr, Mission. OPEN TO THE PUBLIC, Lunch served at 11:00 am. For more information call 319-795-8101. Entertainment w/Leslie Blasing, 01:00 PM, Boomerang Billy’s, 2612 Gulf Blvd, South Padre Island. For more information call 956-761-4347. Feature Creature: Nature Olympics, 02:00 PM, Quinta Mazatlan, 600 Sunset Dr, McAllen. $3.00 pp, visit the Discovery Museum for a presentation each month for a special creature feature. For information call 956-681-3370. Harlingen Farmers Market, 03:00 PM, Downtown Harlingen, ‘A’ Street. The Market is on Jackson and Monroe, behind Grimsells and in front of New York Deli. Producers supply residents the freshest locally grown food, come take advantage

JAM SESSIONS

MEALS

SALES

of the best Harlingen has to offer! Dance w/Steven May, 07:00 PM, Trophy Gardens RV Resort, 800 Highway 495, Alamo $5.00 pp. For information call 956-685-5300. Entertainment w/Leslie Blasing, 07:00 PM, Palm Street Pier Bar & Grill, 204 Palm St, South Padre Island.For more information call 956-761-4347.

2708 N Texas Blvd, Weslaco. Free admission, live Latin music. For information call 956-862-6763. Entertainment w/Leslie Blasing, 01:00 PM, Boomerang Billy’s, 2612 Gulf Blvd, South Padre Island. For more information call 956-761-4347. RC Racing, 02:00 PM, Fun-N-Sun RV Resort, Zillock Rd, San Benito.

SUNDAY, AUGUST 21, 2016

MONDAY, AUGUST 22, 2016

Church Service, 10:00 AM, Paradise Resort Estates, 301 E Hall Acres Rd, Pharr. For information call 956-787-1521. Rio Valley Church of Nazarene, 10:45 AM, 1400 W Nolana Ave, McAllen. Please visit our website rvcnaz.org for more information. We are a mixed congregation including Spanish Speaking, as well as Winter Texans. Pastor Kevin Sheese. Farmer’s Market @ The Shores, 11:00 AM, 8500 Padre Blvd, South Padre Island. Fresh produce, fresh eggs, fresh seafood! Healthy shopping for healthy foods. Located at ‘The Shores’ north of SPI Convention Centre. Live Entertainment w/Trio Tres en Punto, 12:30 PM, El Ahuehuete Restaurant,

TUESDAY, AUGUST 23, 2016

Volunteer in the Park, 08:30 AM, McAllen Nature Center, 4101 W Business 83, McAllen. All equipment is provided; gloves are limited. Volunteers

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS CONTINUED ON PAGE 12 >>

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August 2016 • • • Welcome

Home RIO GRANDE VALLEY • • • your official connection to the rio grande valley

DANCE ENTERTAINMENT & SHOWS SCHEDULE OF EVENTS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 11 are encouraged to bring their own Blvd, Weslaco. Chili, hot dogs, work gloves. Projects include weeding, nachos, popcorn and soft drinks watering, planting, raking and more. available. For information call 956969-3558 or 952-200-8646. For information call 956-681-3333. Diabetes Management Class, 01:00 Maxan Street Farmers’ Market, 04:00 PM, 3rd Floor, McAllen Medical PM, The Garden, Port Isabel. Center. East Classroom, classes are The Garden on Maxan Street in provided in English and Spanish Port Isabel’s Lighthouse Square. every other week. For information call Additional parking at Pirate’s Landing. For information and vendor Mary Escaname at 956-971-5850. Overeaters Anonymous, 06:00 PM, Unity opportunities, call 956-433-9675. Church of the Valley, 301 E Polk Ave, Entertainment w/Leslie Blasing, 06:00 Pharr. Are you having problems with PM, Palm Street Pier Bar & Grill, 204 food? Come join us for an informative Palm St, South Padre Island. For more support group on how to help control information call 956-761-4347. your cravings. For information call Dance w/Bottomline Band, 07:00 PM, Tip O’Texas RV Resort, 101 E Sioux Carmen 956-475-3791. Entertainment w/Leslie Blasing, 07:00 Rd, Pharr. $5.00 pp, BYOB. For PM, Louie’s Backyard, 2305 Laguna information call 956-787-6461. Blvd, South Padre Island. For more THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2016 information call 956-761-4347. Volunteer in the Park, 08:30 AM, McAllen Nature Center, 4101 W WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 24, 2016 Volunteer Morning, 08:30 AM, Quinta Business 83, McAllen. All equipment is Mazatlan, 600 Sunset Dr, McAllen. Free provided; gloves are limited. Volunteers admission, join our volunteer coordinator are encouraged to bring their own for a fun morning of hands on work work gloves. Projects include weeding, and learning in our native gardens. For watering, planting, raking and more. For information call 956-681-3333. information call 956-681-3370. Social Hour w/Diego, 03:00 PM, Unique Open Mic Jam, 03:00 PM, Siesta Village, 2712 S International Heritage Square, 300 S Bryan Rd,

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MEALS

Mission. Free admission, music, comedy & poetry, no food available. For information call 563-340-6493. Valley Transplant Support Group, 06:30 PM, 4th Floor, McAllen Medical Center, 301 W Expressway 83 McAllen. The Valley Transplant Support Group’s goal is to educate and help patients have an understanding of the challenges that may arise before and after transplantation and the resources available to assist them. For information call 956-971-5726. Live Entertainment w/Trio Tres en Punto, 08:00 PM, San Miguelito Restaurant, 6101 N 23rd St, McAllen. Live Latin music, romantic music hits from the 40’s to the 60’s. For information call 956-862-6763.

FRIDAY, AUGUST 26, 2016

Country Jam Session, 12:30 PM, Casa Del Sol, 400 N Val Verde Rd, Donna. Lunch available. For information call 956-464-2272. Art Night, 06:00 PM, Numerous Locations around Harlingen. FREE Admission, numerous venues downtown Jackson Street, 3rd Street to Commerce VanBuren, Commerce to ‘D Street. Map available call 956-367-1973. Dance w/Willie Knight, 06:00 PM, Jesus Martinez Post 93, American Legion, 910 W Expressway 83, Mission. Free admission, for information call 402-217-7973. Dance w/Smoking Gun, 07:00 PM, Texas Trails RV Resort, 501 W Owassa Rd, Pharr. $5.00 pp, for information call 956-787-6538. Live Entertainment w/Trio Tres en Punto, 08:00 PM, Las Margaritas, 3505 TX107, Edinburg. Free admission, for information call 956-862-6763.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 27, 2016

Spectacular Saturdays!, 08:00 AM, Edinburg WBC, 714 Raul Longoria Dr, Edinburg. The weather is enjoyable and wildlife are arriving by the day. Throughout the day there will be puzzles, crafts, games, and guided nature hikes upon request. Binoculars are available free of charge. For information call 956381-9922. Bird Walks @ Resaca de la Palma, 08:30 AM, 1000 New Carmen Blvd, Brownsville. Travel by foot or on our new and amazingly quiet electric trams to reach our destinations. We have many different trails to venture onto that are relatively flat and ADA accessible. With 1,200 acres of lush, riparian woodlands we will also be birding by ear. For information call 956-350-2920. Volunteer Morning, 08:30 AM, Quinta Mazatlan, 600 Sunset Dr, McAllen. Free admission, join our volunteer coordinator for a fun morning of hands on work

SALES

and learning in our native gardens. For information call 956-681-3370. Brownsville’s Farmers Market, 09:00 AM, Ringgold Street & E 6th St, Brownsville. Brownsville has its own farmer’s market each week, across the street from Gladys Porter Zoo. For information call 956-882-5896. Feature Creature: Nature Olympics, 10:00 AM, Quinta Mazatlan, 600 Sunset Dr, McAllen. $3.00 pp, visit the Discovery Museum for a presentation each month for a special creature feature. For information call 956-681-3370. The Market @ McAllen, 10:00 AM, McAllen Public Library, 4001 N 23rd St, McAllen. Local farmers, ranchers, chefs, and artisans each contributing to the healthy life style changes our community desperately needs. Country Jam Lunch!, 11:00 AM, Green Gate Grove, 700 N Bentsen Palm Dr, Mission. OPEN TO THE PUBLIC. For more information call 956-584-1561. Country Jam, 12:30 PM, Green Gate Grove, 700 N Bentsen Palm Dr, Mission. OPEN TO THE PUBLIC, Lunch served at 11:00 am. For more information call 319-795-8101. Entertainment w/Leslie Blasing, 01:00 PM, Boomerang Billy’s, 2612 Gulf Blvd, South Padre Island. For more information call 956-761-4347. Feature Creature: Nature Olympics, 02:00 PM, Quinta Mazatlan, 600 Sunset Dr, McAllen. $3.00 pp, visit the Discovery Museum for a presentation each month for a special creature feature. For information call 956-681-3370. Harlingen Farmers Market, 03:00 PM, Downtown Harlingen, ‘A’ Street. The Market is on Jackson and Monroe, behind Grimsells and in front of New York Deli. Producers supply residents the freshest locally grown food, come take advantage of the best Harlingen has to offer! Dance w/Diego, 07:00 PM, Trophy Gardens RV Resort, 800 Highway 495, Alamo. $5.00 pp. For information call 956-685-5300. Entertainment w/Leslie Blasing, 07:00 PM, Palm Street Pier Bar & Grill, 204 Palm St, South Padre Island. For more information call 956-761-4347.

SUNDAY, AUGUST 28, 2016

www.welcomehomergv.com • • • August 2016

DANCE ENTERTAINMENT & SHOWS AM, 8500 Padre Blvd, South Padre Island. Fresh produce, fresh eggs, fresh seafood! Healthy shopping for healthy foods. Located at ‘The Shores’ north of SPI Convention Centre. Live Entertainment w/Trio Tres en Punto, 12:30 PM, El Ahuehuete Restaurant, 2708 N Texas Blvd, Weslaco. Free admission, live Latin music. For information call 956-862-6763. Entertainment w/Leslie Blasing, 01:00 PM, Boomerang Billy’s, 2612 Gulf Blvd, South Padre Island. For more information call 956-761-4347. RC Racing, 02:00 PM, Fun-N-Sun RV Resort, Zillock Rd, San Benito.

MONDAY, AUGUST 29, 2016

TUESDAY, AUGUST 30, 2016

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 31, 2016

Maxan Street Farmers’ Market, 04:00 PM, The Garden, Port Isabel.

7-Night Western Caribbean Cruise

Sailing out of Galveston

PACKAGE INCLUDES:

Chuck & Enid Olsen

will be joining Kristi, from Welcome Home RGV as co-hosts on this exciting cruise!

ALL cruises to be booked through

CHUCK OLSON TOURS & CRUISES 3827 N. 10th St, Suite 203 McAllen, TX 78501 956-664-2916 800-568-9890

• Pre-Cruise Hotel Stay (Evening Meal & Breakfast Included) • Round Trip Transporation from the Valley • Stateroom and all Cruise port fees & taxes • $100 On-Board Ship Credit per Stateroom • Group get-together with Kristi

PACKAGE PRICING per person

Cat Q : Inside Stateroom $1140/pp Cat I : Oceanview Stateroom $1231/pp Cat E1 : Balcony Stateroom $1480/pp

*Prices are subject to change based on availability and are based on double occupancy. ***All itineraries are subject to change without notice.

JAM SESSIONS

MEALS

The Garden on Maxan Street in Port Isabel’s Lighthouse Square. Additional parking at Pirate’s Landing. For information and vendor opportunities, call 956-433-9675. Entertainment w/Leslie Blasing, 06:00 PM, Palm Street Pier Bar & Grill, 204 Palm St, South Padre Island. For more information call 956-761-4347. Dance w/Bottomline Band, 07:00 PM, Tip O’Texas RV Resort, 101 E Sioux

SALES

Rd, Pharr. $5.00 pp. BYOB. For information call 956-787-6461. Volunteer Morning, 08:30 PM, Quinta Mazatlan, 600 Sunset Dr, McAllen. Join our volunteer coordinator for a fun morning of work and learning in our native gardens! Students, earn your service hours at Quinta Mazatlan! We are also a site certified for Texas Master Naturalist hours. For more information call 956-681-3370. •

Welcome to UTRGV’s University Production 2016-2017 Season Special to Welcome Home RGV

It’s

an exciting year of live comedy, tragedy, musical, and theatre for Valley audiences with all the Broadway-level entertainment, humor, staging, costumes, and performances you’ve come to expect. Our theatre is a thrilling place where you, our audience, is very much a part of the teaching/learning process. As always, this year you will witness our student actors and technical artists learn their craft and grow with each

production. We’re looking forward to the creative challenges of our various productions and hope you will find each offering something special in its own way. Become a season subscriber today! Subscribers get the best, guaranteed seats in the house! For more information, please call the University Theatre Box Office at 956-665-3581 or email Elva Galvan at elva.galvan@utrgv.edu. •

August 2016 • • • Welcome

Home RIO GRANDE VALLEY • • • your official connection to the rio grande valley

Enjoy Savings. Maximize Life.

COUPON

CONNECTION

Looking for ways to SAVE right here in the Rio Grande Valley? Our weekly coupon section will help you SAVE while you’re here, enjoying life in the Valley. •

Dr. Edieberto Palacios

217 W. Nolana Suite 25 • McAllen, TX 78504 • 956-404-4666

www.welcomehomergv.com • • • August 2016

D From the Inside, Out D Vanity, Thy Name is Woman

by Marge Flados

passing glance in the mirror indicated I had a hair crisis. Long overdue, suddenly a haircut was the most pressing issue in my life. I grabbed the phone, called my hairdresser and blurted, “I need a haircut.” “I have openings early next week. When would you like to come in?” she asked. “Now.” “Now?” she repeated, surprise in her voice. “I look like I am wearing somebody else’s hair. I am quite desperate.” After a long pause, she said, “I am booked solid today, but if you can get here within a half hour, I can work you in for a shampoo, cut, and blow-dry.” I was so grateful I wanted to cry. I assured her I would be there ticketyboo. So I dashed out the door and was on my way. Wrong. I was still in my nightgown and sleeping socks. I hastily pulled on jeans, a blouse, and flip-flops. There was a chill in the air, and I knew my feet would be cold before I was out of the garage, but this was no time to worry about circulatory insufficiency in the lower extremities. No time for make-up or any of the finer points of a morning put together, either. I would have to go barefaced. The haircut and blow dry left me feeling liberated and ready to address the day--also grateful to have a hairdresser who recognizes and accommodates desperation when she hears it at 8:30 in the morning. Driving past the Texas Department of Transportation offices on my way home reminded me that I was one day removed from having an expired driver’s license. How convenient. I am nearby and will tend to that little detail right now. I entered the DOT waiting area and faced more people than I had seen in one spot since I shopped for groceries on the day before Super Bowl. Do this many people drive cars around here? I dutifully took an application to fill out that included my place in line--

Marge Flados

#66. I asked the attendant if I would be out before suppertime, and she pleasantly assured me it would be before that. I filled out my paperwork and settled in for the day. It was then I realized the numbers on the neon sign were moving right along. I also realized that each person in the room had brought along a few friends or relatives for moral support, or something, because after being processed and photographed, they would leave with several other people in tow. Odd, it never occurred to me to bring my friends; it would have provided a nice time for a visit. Number 66 was duly called, and a very pleasant person processed my paperwork, after which I was told to step to the side, take off my glasses, and look into the camera…for my picture. Then it hit me. My hair looked great, but I didn’t. The camera flashed, heedless of my concern. I received my new driver’s license with a picture that makes me look out of this world! Literally. Zombie. Wallking Dead. Gravely Ill. All of the above. Now I must spend the next three years sharing that ghastly picture with anyone who requests my ID. I am not blaming the Texas Department of Transportation. In fact, I wish to commend them for an efficiently run office. I am resigned to live with it. Vanity, thy name is woman. • M. Flados is a resident of Harlingen and can be reached at nflados@rgv.rr.com

Salute to Our Troops at Gladys Porter Zoo August 20 Special to Welcome Home RGV

The Gladys Porter Zoo will honor all

current and former military members and their families Saturday, August 20, during a special discount day. The local VFW will hold a flag-raising ceremony at the front of the zoo at 10 a.m. Current and former military members and their families receive a special admission rate of $3 per person with a military ID, retiree ID, or a VA card. The zoo will be open

What: Salute to Our Troops Appreciation Day When: Saturday, August 20, 2016 Where: Gladys Porter Zoo

from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. for Salute to Our Troops Appreciation Day. •

>> WINTER DIFFERENTLY PART II CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

inland. Down Deep Sportfishing for wahoo, tuna, and dolphin is also available. Whether you head out on your own fishing boat or embark on a chartered fishing trip, fishing in the Gulf of Mexico is a treat for fishermen. There are multiple large fish species waiting to test your fishing skills. Nearby in Port Isabel, Pirate’s Landing has the longest fishing pier in Texas. Pirate’s Landing extends into the Queen Isabela Causeway, which leads to South Padre Island. Fishing poles and tackle are always available for rent. For those nature lovers who love recording and taking pictures of birds--ranging from the ordinary to the exotic--South Texas is a popular and world-renowned location for birders. The region has more than 500 species of bird and is a migratory pathway for the monarch butterfly, which makes its way from Chapultepec to the northern reaches of the United States. The RGV is home to the World Birding Center, which has nine locations in South Texas, with each location offering unique birding trails and excursions. The Rio Grande Valley Birding Festival draws world-class birders for field trips and special events every year. The 23rd Annual Rio Grande Valley Birding Festival will take place November 2 and will feature

presentations by world-class wildlife photographers and prominent birders, plus field trips to places like South Padre Island and the Upper Rio Grande Valley. During the Winter Texan season, seniors have the opportunity to experience an entertainment scene, crafted and honed by some of the best entertainers, musicians, top 10 recording artists, and homegrown talent, in the comfort of their own resort. The cuisine is burgeoning with influences from Northern Mexico, Tex-Mex, and international influences that will excite the most jaded palate. Be ready to experience comida (food) that is authentic and comes from the blend of cultures that make up the United States. From tacos to sushi to BBQ to authentic Italian and fish from the Gulf, it is all here for the eating! Are you ready to come and join the ranks of Winter Texans in the Rio Grande Valley? Trek south to this laidback area with a low cost of living and big-city amenities. Take advantage of some of the new customer specials offered by Encore. Visit www. rvonthego.com or www.rvsouthtexas. com to get more information or call 1-877-570-2267. No RV? No problem! Park model rentals are available. Bienvenidos (Welcome!) to South Texas! •

Tasty Rio Ramen Salad Recipe

Recipe compliments of Lone Star

Compliments of Lone Star Citrus Growers

Citrus Growers--surprizingly sweet with a hint of zing. Be sure to visit and like their Winter Sweetz Facebook page, where you’ll find more great recipes and lots more! •

Rio Ramen Salad

Prep. Time: 10 minutes Makes: 6 servings

• 4 cups torn fresh spinach • 4 cups broccoli slaw • 6 green onions, thinly sliced (tops included) • 3/4 cup red wine and vinegar salad dressing • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper • 3 Texas Rio Star Grapefruit, 1 juiced and 2 sectioned • 1 (2 1/2 oz.) pkg. Ramen noodles, lightly toasted and broken • 1/4 cup sesame seeds, lightly toasted In a large bowl, toss together spinach, coleslaw mix, and onions; then chill. In a small jar, shake together salad dressing, pepper, and ¼ cup of grapefruit juice (refrigerate remaining juice for another use) then chill. Just before serving, add grapefruit sections, noodles, and sesame seeds to salad. Pour dressing over top and toss to evenly coat. Serve immediately.

Winter Sweetz™ Grapefruit is “surprizingly sweet with a hint of zing.”

August 2016 • • • Welcome

Home RIO GRANDE VALLEY • • • your official connection to the rio grande valley