Welcome Home Winter Texan : Issue 10 : December 23, 2015 by Kristi Collier

GOLF ANYONE?

Tee Time in the RGV features Tony Butler Golf Course!

UPCOMING EVENTS!

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

RECIPE CONNECTION!

Executive Chef Bettina Tolin shares a sweet and savory recipe!

Welcome Home See review on page 25.

See calendar on page 5.

VOLUME 1 • ISSUE 10 • December 23, 2015

Try her recipe on page 35.

WINTER TEXAN

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

All Aboard the South Texas Health System Bus Tour for 1st Responders Special to Welcome Home RGV

Happy holidays!

I hope this finds you knee-deep in all the traditions you love! When I was growing up, we would receive a Greenberg smoked turkey every year from one of my father’s clients. I would wait by the door for it to magically appear. We would have turkey sandwiches for lunch and dinner the week before Christmas, at my request. Now that I’m a grown up, I realize how that must have been a real gift to my mother, not having to cook lunch or dinner for a week! My father started sending me a Greenberg smoked turkey while I was in college, and the tradition continues. I’m happy to say I haven’t had to cook for the last week! We used to celebrate Christmas Eve at my grandmother’s house. Since she’s been gone, I’ve been honored to carry on her tradition by hosting our family at my house. This year, we are so excited to have family members who haven’t celebrated with us for over 10 years! Celebrating with our friends and family is just as important to us as it is to you, so this will be our last issue for this year. Our next issue will be in your parks January 6. We hope you have a wonderful holiday! We look forward to seeing you in the new year! • We’re just connecting the dots,

Kristi

Thursday,

by members of the STHS medical staff. Our first hop-off destination was the STHS Mission free-standing emergency department, which has become an asset to many of the Winter Texans who need efficient and effective medical care, whether it is for a minor emergency or urgent care emergencies requiring ambulance care and transportation. The second stop was at the McAllen Medical Center Emergency Department, preceded by educational information provided by the STHS trauma staff. The tour included visits to their specialized trauma rooms, in addition to the 1st Responders in the Leadership Program on board. emergency department, phlebotomy, staff The tour departed from the McAllen Medical Center overflow parking area, and nursing stations, ambulance at 2:00 p.m. following a visit with the entrance, and triage areas plus staff of Air Evac, sharing information diagnostics required for treating about the emergency helicopter and trauma and emergency patients within McAllen Medical Center. viewing their equipment. We climbed aboard the 50-passenger motor coach for a guided tour of the South Texas Health System (STHS) facilities, which extend special care to our residents in various locations. This was a great opportunity for an informative behind-the-scenes look at the STHS emergency care centers of excellence. En route to our first destination, we received valuable information on many of the emergencies 1st Edinburg Regional Medical Center Responders handle within their Emergency Department Tour. Our third hop-on, hop-off communities, which was presented December 3 from 2:00-6:30 p.m., a busload of 1st Responders boarded a motor coach for a hop-on, hop-off familiarization tour of the South Texas Health System Emergency Care followed by a special holiday appreciation mixer.

destination was Edinburg Regional Medical Center, which specializes in senior care in addition to traditional emergency care. From Edinburg, we travelled to the Weslaco FreeStanding ER, touring the outpatient

STHS Weslaco Free-Standing Outpatient Registration Lobby.

portion of this facility, which included the blood testing area and diagnostic equipment for mammograms, bone density tests, and X-ray and CT scans. People can have bloodwork and other diagnostic tests completed for doctors up north, locally, or on their own at this and the Mission location. They accept appointments, ER reserve appointments or walk-in patients. Ambulances also bring people from our resort communities to these facilities. Advanced care patients 1st RESPONDER BUS TOUR CONTINUED ON PAGE 27 >>

A SPECIAL THANK YOU TO OUR 2015-2016 SEASON SPONSORS

December 23, 2015 • • • Welcome

Home WINTER TEXAN • • • your official connection to the rio grande valley

Feeding the Hungry:

It Really Does Take a Village by Rev. Jim Nelson, St. John’s Episcopal

2005, St. John’s Episcopal Church gave out 15 boxes of food to the needy once a month. It grew. Since 2005, approximately 17,293 boxes of food have been distributed! Now, every month a community of 350 gathers at St. John’s in McAllen. The community I’m talking about is the group of volunteers and recipients participating in St. John’s monthly food pantry. About three hundred men, women, and children recipients come to St. John’s on the first Tuesday of the month to receive a common meal and a box of food. As you can imagine, this endeavor takes a small village to pull off. The cadre of volunteers is made up of members of St. John’s, Brownie troops, Cub Scouts, high school students, and others who have simply stepped forward. The people serve

Welcome Home

WINTER TEXAN

your official connection to the rio grande valley

Publisher Kristi Collier

because their heart tells them it’s right to help someone who is in need of one of the basics in life. The effort begins typically with a group of people preparing boxes themselves for filling. Then St. John’s purchases the food at the Food Bank of the RGV and transports it to the parish. Another crew unloads the truck onto tables in the Parish Hall of the church. More volunteers sort the food and place it in the boxes ready for delivery to the people we are serving. While all of this is happening, another whole group of volunteers are preparing an evening meal for the community seated at tables. If you would like to help with this endeavor please call St. John’s office for more details at 956-687-6191. •

Wishing You A Very

From All of Us at

Year End Donations, Volunteers Help Food Bank RGV Special to Welcome Home RGV

kristi@welcomehomergv.com

Accounting Sharon Flores

sharon@welcomehomergv.com

Administration Amie Gray

agray@welcomehomergv.com

Colette Brookins

colie@welcomehomergv.com

Sales & Marketing Cheryl Palacios

cheryl@welcomehomergv.com

Marie Sanchez

marie@welcomehomergv.com

Communications Director Matt Davis matt@welcomehomergv.com

1st Responder Coordinator Rita Huether rita@welcomehomergv.com

Activity Coordinator Fran Adams

fran@welcomehomergv.com

Contributing Writer Chris Ardis

news@welcomehomergv.com

Graphic Design Jenny R Carpenter silentBYTES design

artwork@welcomehomergv.com

Welcome Home

The Food Bank RGV is in urgent

need of year-end donations and volunteers to ensure hungry families are fed this holiday season. “Just one dollar can help us provide five healthy meals for kids,” Terri Drefke, Food Bank RGV CEO, said. “Volunteers are the backbone of the Food Bank RGV and help get safe food to hungry families efficiently and quickly. One hour of volunteering saves the Food Bank RGV enough funds to provide 105 meals.” Volunteer groups and individuals are encouraged to sign up online at www.foodbankrgv.com or by calling 956-904-4509 to schedule a time to volunteer.

Weekly e-Blasts Kristi’s e-Blasts are sent weekly October - March to our subscribers. Find out what’s happening across the Valley. These e-Blasts include helpful links and fliers for “Featured Events.” Sign up today!

Follow Us on Facebook! Welcome Monetary donations can be made online at www.foodbankrgv.com or in person at 724 N. Cage Blvd. in Pharr. The Food Bank RGV is a 501(c)3 charity and donations are eligible for a tax deduction. •

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! •

rio grande valley

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

956-687-5115 www.welcomehomergv.com

© Copyright 2015 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.

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

www.welcomehomergv.com • • • December 23, 2015

Cooking Up Some Nostalgia Special to Welcome Home RGV

with Hector Galán

Hector

Galán is a nationally recognized filmmaker whose work includes eleven episodes of the PBS series Frontline, two programs for PBS’s The American Experience and an array of special projects including Chicano! The History of the Mexican American Civil Rights Movement; Vaquero, the Forgotten Cowboy; and Songs of the Homeland. Galán has earned awards from The American File and Video Festival, National Education Film and Video Festival, the New York International Film Festival and many others. •

Coming January 9... Causeway Run! Special to Welcome Home RGV

Run

Tejano Salsa • 6 fresh jalapeño peppers, whole • 2 medium tomatoes, whole • 2 8-ounce cans of tomato sauce

• 2 tablespoons onion powder • 2 tablespoons garlic powder • Salt and pepper to taste

In a medium saucepan, place the jalapeño peppers (minus the stem) and tomatoes, and bring to a boil. Once the jalapeño peppers and tomatoes are soft (approximately 5 to 8 minutes), put in colander and drain water completely. This is important because water is lighter than salsa and you don’t want a small lake to form in your salsa bowl. Put the jalapeño peppers and tomatoes in a blender. Add the tomato sauce. The amount of tomato sauce you add depends upon how hot you like your salsa: add more tomato sauce for a milder salsa. Blend well. Add the onion powder, garlic powder, and salt and pepper, and continue to blend. Makes about 2½ - 3 cups. Serve with your favorite tortilla chips, pop open a beer and relax and listen to your favorite Tejano music.

Editor’s Note: In 1999, Broadway Hardware, a popular Valley store, planned

to create a cookbook. They contacted both local and national/international stars for recipes. With the permission of the former owners of Broadway Hardware, we are sharing those recipes with you. We think you’ll like the recipes and the memorabilia the stars sent with those recipes. •

Bernie on Vacation Special to Welcome Home RGV

Bernie

Crawley, one half of the comedy and music duo Bernie & Red, a performer in the Valley every January, and a columnist for Welcome Home Winter Texan is on vacation. In place of his column this week, we thought you might enjoy this drawing of Bernie created by the seven-year-old daughter of friends of his from San Francisco who were visiting Bernie and Red in Canada. Now 14, this little artist’s name is Claire Stone. • Bernie Crawley is one half of the comedy and music duo Bernie & Red, who perform throughout the Valley every January.

or walk from Port Isabel across the beautiful Queen Isabella Causeway to South Padre Island, Texas in the 32nd Annual Causeway Run. The 10K Causeway Run starts at 10:00 a.m. in Port Isabel and finishes across the Causeway on South Padre Island. The three-mile fitness walk starts at 10:15 a.m. The walk also starts in Port Isabel and finishes across the Causeway on South Padre Island. For more information, call 1-800527-6102 or 956-943-2262. The Port Isabel Chamber of Commerce office hours are Monday - Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. REGISTER ONLINE at http://bit.ly/1kiZMml •

December 23, 2015 • • • Welcome

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MAKING CONNECTIONS

Non-Profit Spotlight: McAllen Nature Center

Special to Welcome Home RGV

Nonprofit Name: McAllen Nature Center Address: 4101 W. Business 83 (Between Bentsen Rd. and Ware Rd.), McAllen Phone Number: 956-681-3333 Nonprofit’s Web Site: www.facebook.com/mcallennaturecenter Contact Person’s Name: Tiffany Kersten, Recreation Supervisor Contact Person’s Email: tkersten@mcallen.net How and when did your organization begin and who does it serve? First established in 1960 as the McAllen Botanical Gardens, the site reopened in October of 2013 as the McAllen Nature Center. Admission and programs are offered free of charge. The site features 3/4 mile of ADA-accessible walking trails, benches, and picnic tables. Weekly programs are offered for toddlers through adults. Programs in nature and fitness change seasonally.

What are the hours of operation? Seasonal hours (November-April) 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily What kind of donations does your nonprofit organization need? Black oil sunflower seed (please no mixed seed or striped sunflower) A monetary donation box is available at our sign-in table. What kind of volunteer opportunities do you have for Winter Texans, Valley retirees, and others in our community? Regular drop-in volunteer days are Tuesdays and Thursdays, year-round, from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. Tasks may include watering, weeding, planting projects, raking our trails, or pulling invasive guinea grass. Groups of six or more are asked to pre-register. Volunteer groups of 10 or more can call to schedule a weekend work day.

Do you have any upcoming events you would like Welcome Home RGV readers to know about? Free weekly programs offered through December: Monday @ 9:30 a.m. Mindfulness & Meditation Monday @ 11:00 a.m. Homeschool Program Tuesday @ 8:30 a.m. Volunteers in the Park Tuesday @ 11:00 a.m. Art in the Park Wednesday @ 8:30 a.m. Bird & Nature Walk Wednesday @ 11:00 a.m. Butterfly Walk Thursday @ 8:30 a.m. Volunteers in the Park Thursday @ 11:00 a.m. Native Plants Friday @ 8:30 a.m. Bird & Nature Walk

Friday @ 4:45 p.m. Yoga Friday @ 5:45 p.m. Night Hike Saturday @ 8:00 a.m. Tai Chi Saturday @ 10:00 a.m. Yoga Saturday @ 2:00 p.m. Family Nature Walk Sunday @ 10:00 a.m. Yoga Sunday @ 11:00 a.m. Mindfulness & Meditation Sunday @ 2:00 p.m. Social Walkers December Special Program: Recycled Snowflake Contest was held Saturday, December 19. The recycled snowflakes will be on display until January 15. Email tkersten@mcallen.net to get added to our email list for future programs, or find us on Facebook! •

AARP Tax-Aide Program Offers Qualified People Free Preparation Service Special to Welcome Home RGV

Jesus

Villalobos didn’t expect to spend more than 10 years volunteering after his retirement—but he’s not surprised, either. He’s known the importance of lending a hand his entire life. “I grew up in an orphanage,” said Villalobos, 81, “and I know people need help.” Speaking English and Spanish, he’s helped dozens of people since 2003 as a regional supervisor in El Paso for the AARP Foundation Tax-Aide program. Founded in 1968 by four volunteers, Tax-Aide is the nation’s largest free, volunteer-run tax assistance and preparation program. Today, the program has more than 35,000 volunteers nationwide working at more than 5,000 Tax-Aide sites. In Texas, roughly 2,000 volunteers work at the state’s 300 sites. This coming taxpreparation season, they’ll work from February 1 to April 15. “I felt the satisfaction of helping people in need who couldn’t afford it, and I could offer to do it for free,” Villalobos said. He even gave out his phone number so people he’d helped could reach him any time. Carmen Salloum, 74, who worked as a Tax-Aide coordinator last year, said she hopes to see more people like Villalobos volunteering this tax season.

Changing Demographics “Sometimes we get couples where one speaks English, but the spouse doesn’t, so naturally they want us to explain what we’re doing in Spanish,” Salloum said. Last tax season, she helped people at a senior center in El Paso. She estimated that about 80 percent of people going there for their tax preparation needed help in Spanish. “It’s very satisfying for us to be able to communicate with them in the language that they prefer so that they do understand,” she added. Ron Craig, who oversees the Tax-Aide program in Texas, points to the state’s changing demographics to explain why he, too, sees the need for bilingual volunteers. Texas has about 10 million Latinos, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. Harris County has the nation’s second largest population of Latinos, after Los Angeles County in California. Craig, 78, a former electrical engineer, volunteers just north of Houston in The Woodlands. He’s been working with the Tax-Aide program for about 20 years. Regardless of how often he’s prepared taxes, he must get recertified each tax season. Tax-Aide volunteers are trained and IRS-certified every year, so they know about the latest changes and additions to the U.S. tax code. Then they work at locations across the state,

including libraries, community and senior centers, and places of worship. Tax-Aide coordinators look over a tax preparer’s work before the final filing is submitted to the IRS. The Affordable Care Act has added complexities to tax law, which TaxAide volunteers are trained to handle. Marriage, divorce, and retirement can have a big impact on a person’s tax filing, too. The important documents that people should bring with them include last year’s tax return, a Social Security card, proof of income, a list of medical expenses, and a photo identification issued by a state, federal or tribal agency. Craig has helped people who tell him they can’t afford expensive taxpreparation services. “For lower- and middle-class people, that’s major,” he said, adding that they are often struggling just to pay for medicine and food. Marta Reyes is a volunteer in El Paso. Reyes, who’s retired, has been a Tax-Aide volunteer for four years. The 2016 tax season will be her fifth year. She says she sees a lot of people coming in for tax help but not enough volunteers. “What’s sad is that we don’t have enough volunteers. Most centers will take 40 to 50 people for the

day, depending on the number of volunteers” Reyes said. “There’s a cutoff, and a lot of people are sent away because we just can’t take them.” She says explaining in Spanish helps people understand what’s being done by the Tax-Aide volunteer and why. “Bilingual volunteers would be great, but really any volunteers because really there’s a need,” Reyes said. “There’s a big need.” The Tax-Aide program is open to anyone, although it serves mostly those who are 60 or older and low- to lower-middle-income filers. It does not handle complex returns. Anyone interested in volunteering must apply by January 1. Volunteers can email taxaide@aarp.org or call 888-687-2277 (English) or 877-6273350 (Spanish) toll-free. Volunteers train for a little less than a week in January. “The thing that I like to emphasize is that this is the most rewarding thing you can do,” Craig said. “We have a great number of people who’ve been in the program 30-plus years. Once you get in, it just gets you.” For more information, visit states. aarp.org and type “Tax-Aide” in the search box. •

www.welcomehomergv.com • • • December 23, 2015

DANCE ENTERTAINMENT & SHOWS

CALENDAR OF EVENTS WEEK OF

December 23 - January 5, 2016 WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2015 Bird & Nature Walk, 08:30 AM, McAllen Nature Center, 4101 W. Business 83, McAllen. Join Tiffany Kersten for a 1/2 mile walk to explore birds, butterflies, plants, and whatever else happens to cross our path! Bring binoculars if you have them. Loaner binoculars are available free of charge. Admission and public programs are provided free of charge. A donation box is available. All donations are used to purchase native plants for the park. For information call 956-681-3333. 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. National Shuffleboard Tournament,

JAM SESSIONS

MEALS

SALES

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 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 Mondays at 5:00pm. •

09:00 AM, Leisure World, 400 E. 18th St., Weslaco. Lunch will be served 11:00 am - 1:00 pm. Tournament will continue through out the day until everyone has played. For information call 956-447-3821. Operation Imagination Holiday Camp, 09:00 AM, International Museum of Art & Science, 1900 W. Nolana Ave., McAllen. Just for kids in grades Pre-K-8. Each half-day program includes a hands-on science activity, a hands-on art activity, a Science on a Sphere presentation or an Animal Talk plus exploration time in the museum. Call 956-682-0123 to register. Full Day sessions are from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm, please bring a brown bag lunch. Half Day sessions from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm or 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm, Before Care from 8:00 am to 9:00 am, After Care from 4:00 pm to 5:30 pm *Only 25 seats available per sessions. Bluegrass Jam, 09:00 AM, Bentsen

Palm RV Park, 3501 N. Bentsen Palm Resort, 2301 N. Abram Rd., Mission. Dr., Mission. Home made goodies and Come have a great time walking. coffee served. For information call Indoors in the Clubhouse. Walk for 218-525-5807. fun, to take the pounds off. Enjoy the Winter Texan Orchestra, 09:00 AM, fellowship of others. For information Tip O’Texas RV Resort, E. Sioux Rd., call 956-581-1871. Pharr. If you play a musical instrument Line Dancing w/JoAnn, 10:00 AM, Winter found in a Symphony Orchestra you are Ranch RV Resort, 600 State Hwy 495, invited to consider the Winter Texan Alamo. $3.00 pp. Beginners at 10:00 Orchestra. We rehearse on Wednesday am. Intermediate at 10:30 am. For mornings from 9:00 am to 11:00 am. information call 956-783-4587. Percussion and strings are especially Quinta Mazatlan Garden Walk, 10:00 AM, needed but all are welcome. We Quinta Mazatlan, 600 Sunset, McAllen. welcome local musicians to join us for Drop in to Chat and walk with a garden the season. Bob Seymour, Conductor expert. Novice and advanced gardeners at 317-626-6512 or 956-607-2696 will enjoy the themed garden walks or visit a rehearsal. with interesting stories about plants Project Insight Support Group, 10:00 and gardens. Each month the topic AM, McAllen Public Library (Classroom will change based on the season in the 2), McAllen. This is an ongoing, weekly valley! $3.00 Adults, $2.00 Seniors, support group for survivors, caregivers For information call 956-681-3370. and anyone else dealing with cancer. Shuffle Tournament Luncheon, 11:00 AM, http://project-insight.org/ Leisure World, 400 E. 18th St., Weslaco. Power Walk, 10:00 AM, Sleepy Valley For information call 956-463-8225. SCHEDULE OF EVENTS CONTINUED ON PAGE 6 >>

December 23, 2015 • • • Welcome

Home WINTER TEXAN • • • your official connection to the rio grande valley

DANCE ENTERTAINMENT & SHOWS

JAM SESSIONS

MEALS

SALES

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 5 Country Two Step, Waltz & Swing w/Judy, 11:15 AM, Winter Ranch RV Park, 600 State Hwy 495, Alamo. $6.00 per Couple, basic footwork at 11:15, turns and moves at 11:45. For information call 956-783-4587. Boat Ride/River Tour, 12:00 PM, Riverside Club, 214 E. Chimney Rd., Mission. For information call 956-581-1033. Line Dance, 12:30 PM, Casa del Valle, 1048 N. Alamo Rd., Alamo. For information call 956-783-5008. Jam Session, 12:30 PM, Sunshine RV Resort, 1900 Grace Ave., Harlingen. For information call 956-425-7448. Music Jam, 12:30 PM, Paradise Resort Estates, 301 E. Hall Acres Rd., Pharr. Free admission, lunch served at 11:30, all musicians welcome. For information call 956-787-1521. RC Racing, 01:00 PM, Penitas RV Park, 304 19th St., Penitas. 1/10 scale electric stadium trucks and Corr 2w/d. Beginners and spectators welcome! No dues or fees, for information call 956585-2284. Line Dance, 01:00 PM, Lakewood RV Resort, 4525 Graham Rd., Harlingen. For information call 965-428-7116. Round Dance, 01:00 PM, Lakewood RV Resort, 4525 Graham Rd., Harlingen.

January 2016 Texas

For information call 956-423-1170. Jam, 01:00 PM, Eastgate MH & RV Park, 2801 E. Harrison Ave., Harlingen. For information call 956-423-3137. Music Jam, 01:00 PM, Alamo Paradise Acres, 1513 W. Crockett Ave., Alamo. $1.00 pp. Coffee and Lunch available. For information call 956-283-1771. ZUMBA Class, 02:00 PM, Sleepy Valley Resort, 2301 N. Abram Rd., Mission. FREE Admission. Enjoy a ZUMBA class with certified instructors, Pierre and Sylvie, for information call 956581-1871. Overeaters Anonymous Serenity Group, 02:00 PM, Harlingen Library, 410 76th Dr., Harlingen. Are you tired of the Yo-Yo of diets? No dues, fees or weigh-ins, we welcome all who desire to stop eating compulsively. 419-6512901 or 956-202-5281. Acoustical Jam, 02:00 PM, Park Place Estates, 5401 W. Business 83, Harlingen. Free Admission. Refreshments available, musicians by invitation, open to the public. For information call 956-412-0375. WRRH Stroke Support Group, 03:00 PM, Weslaco Regional Rehabilitation Hospital, 906 S.. James St., Weslaco. FREE Admission. Weslaco Regional

Sat Fri Sat Sun Mon Sat Sun Tues Wed Fri Sat Tue Wed Thur Fri Sun

02nd 08th 09th 10th 11th 16th 17th 19th 20th 22nd 23rd 26th 27th 28th 29th 31st

Mission Bell RV Siesta Village Orange Grove RV Llano Grande RV Hidden Valley Ranch Bentsen Grove RV Winter Ranch R V Alamo Rose RV Winter Texan Expo Mission West RV River Bend RV Tropic Star RV Winterhaven RV Paradise South Victoria Palms RV Sunshine RV

Mission Weslaco Edinburg Mercedes Mission Mission Alamo (3pm) Alamo McAllen Conv. Center Mission Brownsville Pharr Brownsville (6-30pm) Pharr Donna Harlingen (2pm)

Show #13 956-585-4833 Show #8 956-969-3558 Show #3 956-383-7931 Show #14 956-565-1506 Show #1 956-580-4477 Show #8 956-585-0703 NEW SHOW 956-783-4587 Show #2 956-783-2600 (11:00 AM) Best of FREE ADMISSION NEW SHOW 956-585-5551 Show #9 956-547-9933 Show #14 956-787-5773 Show #1 956-831-7755 Show #15 956-787-7733 NEW SHOW (reserved seating) 956-782-3263 NEW SHOW 956-425-7448

Tue

02nd

Texas Trails RV

Pharr (2pm)

Best of

February 2016 Texas

St Baldrick’s Charity, helping children with cancer

956-787-6538

Show #1: Where it all started! Red in her outrageous ‘Red Dress’ & her women’s underwear routine. Bernie performs ‘Murphy & The Bricks’ plus a feast of comedy. Show #2: Filled with #1 hits from the 50’s, & also Red’s routine about looking thin, the vacuum toilet story & lots more. Show #3: Hits from the 40’s & 50’s including “Beep Beep”, Red’s piece about women & restrooms, & Bernie’s operatic aria, in Italian. Also the winter visitor version of “Hello Mudda, Hello Father”. Show #8: “Enjoy Yourself ”, ”Two Little Boys”, “Secret Love”, “Cup of Coffee”, “Donald Where’s Your Trousers”, Javalina story. Show #9: Back to the 60’s with “Ït’s My Party”, ”Calendar Girl”, “Diana/Viagra”, “DooWah Diddy”, “There’s a Hole in the Sewer Hose” & more. Lots of comedy. Show #13: “Setting the Woods on Fire”, “Yesterday” (a la Patsy Cline), “Green Door”, “Red Skelton Song”, “Story of my Life”, & more. Comedy includes, Russian internet bride, 50 Shades of Grey, & lots more. Show #14: A show composed of “one hit wonders”, songs that you rarely hear on the radio today, (see how many of these hits from the 50’s & 60’s you can identify). Also Johnny Carson’s “Carnac”. Very funny. Show #15: 50th Anniversary Show. “Da Doo Ron Ron”, “When a Man Loves a Woman”, “Be Bop a Lula”, ukulele version of “Over The Rainbow”, new Carnac routine & more comedy. NEW SHOW: This year’s 2016 show. Great music & more comedy & another Carnac routine Show ….. Best of. With more than a dozen shows to choose from, this will include some of our most requested pieces & a lot of seldom heard material from earlier shows. Lots of comedy.

www.bernieandred.com • www.facebook.com/bernieandred

Rehabilitation Hospital and Knapp Medical Center invite stroke survivors and their families to join us for a free uplifting support group. Come gain support, education and encouragement from others who know just what you are going through. For questions or to RSVP, please call 956-969-2222. Beginning Round/Trail Dance, 03:00 PM, Casa del Valle, 1048 N. Alamo Rd., Alamo. For information call 956783-5008. Happy Hour w/Brenda Cohn, 03:00 PM, Snow to Sun RV Resort, 1701 N. International Blvd., Weslaco. Pass the Hat, BYOB. Wine and beer sold at bar. Free ice. For information call 620441-1173. Happy Hour w/Diego, 03:00 PM, Siesta Village, 2712 S. International Blvd., Weslaco. Pass the hat, popcorn, hot dogs, chili dogs, nachos and sodas available. For information call 317417-9398. Happy Hour w/Regan James, 03:30 PM, Paradise South RV Resort, 9099 N. Mile 2 West Rd., Mercedes. Pass the Hat. BYOB, Hamburgers and hot dogs may be purchased. For information call 956-825-9509. Maxan Street Farmers’ Market, 04:00 PM, The Garden, Port Isabel. Every Wednesday from 4-6 pm in The Garden on Maxan Street in Port Isabel’S. Lighthouse Square. Additional parking at Pirate’s Landing for Farmers’ Market customers. For more information and vendor opportunities, call 956-433-9675. Biscuits & Gravy Dinner, 04:30 PM, Big Valley Trailer Park, 109 E. Business Hwy 83, Donna. For information call 989-424-1299. Hamburger Night, 05:00 PM, Pleasant Valley Resort, 7320 Expressway 83, Mission. $5.00 pp. Hamburger, Chicken sandwich or 1/4 lb Hot Dog including chips, drink and dessert. *Karaoke Follows* For information call 956-580-8454. Taco’s & Chalupas, 05:00 PM, American Legion Post 37, 1305 E. Jasmine Ave., McAllen. For information call 956-682-7841. Entertainment w/Jealous Heart, 05:30 PM, American Legion Post 37, 1305 E. Jasmine Ave., McAllen. For information call 956-682-7841. Homemade Spaghetti, 05:30 PM, Weslaco Elks Lodge, 201 S. Border Ave., Weslaco. $7 per plate, comes with the works. For information call 956-968-7115. Spaghetti Nite, 05:30 PM, American Legion Post 101, 417 S. Cage Blvd., Pharr. Spaghetti & Side Garlic Bread - $7.00, Extra Garlic Bread - $.50, Music by Robert & Joe. For information call 956-787-7451. Line Dance Lessons, 06:00 PM, Fun-N-

Sun RV Resort, 1400 Zillock Rd., San Benito. $2.00 pp. For information call 269-838-9519. Country/Gospel Jam, 06:00 PM, Siesta Village, 2712 S. International Blvd., Weslaco. Musicians and listeners welcome. For information, call Gene, 956-447-9906. Entertainment w/Lindley Creek Christmas Show, 06:30 PM, Bit-O-Heaven RV & MH Park, 1051 W. Business Hwy 83, Donna. $7.00 pp, Popcorn & Soda for sale. For information call 956-464-5191. Karaoke, 06:30 PM, Paradise Resort Estates, 301 E. Hall Acres Rd., Pharr. Free admission, doors open at 6:15 pm, snack bar open. For information call 956-787-1521. Dance w/Bottomline Band, 07:00 PM, Tip O’Texas RV Resort, 101 E. Sioux Rd., Pharr. $5.00 pp. For information call 956-787-6461. Dance w/Dixon & Company, 07:00 PM, Mission West RV Park, 511 E.. Loop 374, Palmview. $6.00 pp. Free popcorn, concession available. For information call 956-585-5551. Dance w/Golden Era Band, 07:00 PM, Chimney Park RV Resort, 4224 S. Conway, Mission. Bring your friends for a fun evening of dancing to the music of the golden era of rock n’ roll & country music for a fun time! Snacks & Setups available. Tickets $6/person available in advance at Park office or at the door! Call 956-585-5061 for more information. Dance w/Keys & Strings & Harmony, 07:00 PM, Fiesta Village RV Park, 205 S. Stewart Rd., Mission. $5.00 pp. For more information call Jerry Russman @ 402-651-6666. Square & Round Dance, 07:00 PM, Lakewood RV Resort, 4525 Graham Rd., Harlingen. For information call 956-423-1170. Entertainment w/Bob Selby & Birger Olson, 07:00 PM, McAllen Mobile Park, 4900 N. McColl Rd., McAllen. $5.00 pp. For information call 956682-3304. Entertainment w/Dale & Gale Christmas Show, 07:00 PM, Tropic Winds RV Resort, 1501 N. Loop 499, Harlingen. $5.00 pp in advance, $6.00 at the door. For information call 956-4234020. 2 Step & Waltz Lessons, 07:30 PM, Fun-N.-Sun RV Resort, 1400 Zillock Rd., San Benito. $2.00 pp. Must have a partner. For information call 269-838-9519.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2015 Bible Study, 10:00 AM, Tropic Winds RV Resort, 1501 N. Loop 499, Harlingen. For information call 956-423-5484. Power Walk, 10:00 AM, Sleepy Valley Resort, 2301 N. Abram Rd., Mission.

www.welcomehomergv.com • • • December 23, 2015

DANCE ENTERTAINMENT & SHOWS Come have a great time walking. Indoors in the Clubhouse. Walk for fun, to take the pounds off, enjoy the fellowship of others. For information call 956-581-1871. FREE Zumba Classes, 10:00 AM, South Padre Island KOA, 1 Padre Blvd., South Padre Island. For information call 956-761-5665. Pharrmers Market, 10:00 AM, The Food Bank of the RGV, 724 N. Cage Blvd., Pharr. Excluding Holidays and rainy days. We will have a great variety of healthy food options, arts & crafts, and personal care items. For information call 956-904-4541. Ballroom Dance, 10:00 AM, Casa del Valle, 1048 N. Alamo Rd., Alamo. For information call 956-783-5008. Country Dance Lessons, 10:00 AM, Mission West RV Park, 511 East Loop 374, Palmview. $6.00/person, couples may start at any time. Square Dance w/Dorty Plus Dance, 10:00 AM, Tip O’Texas RV Resort, 101 E. Sioux Rd., Pharr. For information call Randy Dougherty 602-617-1841. Bird Walk, 10:00 AM, Edinburg WBC, 714 Raul Longoria Rd., Edinburg. Join the EWBC Naturalist for weekly Bird Walks. No level of experience is required. Come and see what’S. been showing up at the Wetlands throughout the week! For information call 956381-9922. Pancake Breakfast, 11:00 AM, The Grove Park, 612 E. Business 83, San Juan. Welcome back Winter Texans. Come out and enjoy your choice of pancakes, eggs, sausages, waffles and all the coffee you can drink. The best pancakes in the valley! Native Plant Tour, 11:00 AM, McAllen Nature Center, 4101 W. Business 83, McAllen. Join a staff naturalist for a walk on the trails and through the native plant gardens, exploring the benefits of native plants. The walk will be tailored to the participants’ interests in edible plants, backyard gardening, wildscaping, and more. Native plants are adapted to our climate, soil ecology, and seasons of drought! Native plants are also much more beneficial to our wildlife, including many being host plants (food) for caterpillars of the butterflies that many of us enjoy. Native plants provide beneficial food and cover to many species of birds as well. McAllen Nature Center admission and programs are free. For information call 956-681-3333. Boat Ride/River Tour, 12:00 PM, Riverside Club, 214 E. Chimney Rd., Mission. For information call 956-581-1033. Country Western Jam, 12:30 PM, Bentsen Grove Resort, 810 Bentsen Palm Dr., Mission. For information call 956-585-0703. Dance Lessons, 01:00 PM, Pine To

Palm Resort Park, 802 S. International Blvd., Weslaco. $6.00/person, couples may start at any time. For information call 956-968-5760. Square Dance w/Dorty C2 Review/Workshop, 01:30 PM, Tip O’Texas RV Resort, 101 E. Sioux Rd., Pharr. For information call Randy Dougherty 602-617-1841. Square Dance, 03:00 PM, Lakewood RV Resort, 4525 Graham Rd., Harlingen. For information call 956-423-1170. Happy Hour w/Andy & Brenda Coin, 03:00 PM, Snow to Sun RV Resort, 1701 N. International Blvd., Weslaco. Pass the Hat, BYOB. Wine and beer sold at bar. Free ice. For information call 620-441-1173. Can/Am Dance, 03:30 PM, Sunshine RV Resort, Grace Ave., Harlingen. For information call 956-425-7448. Thursday Night Dinner, 04:00 PM, Eldorado Acres RV Park, 610 N. FM 492, Mission. For information call 956-581-6718. Pancake Dinner, 04:30 PM, Lemon Tree RV Inn, 1740 E. Business 83, Mission. BYOTS. For information call 262-395-3509. Soup Supper, 04:30 PM, Bit-O-Heaven RV & Mobile Home, 1051 W. Business 83, Donna. $2.00 pp. All you can eat, bring your own table service, dessert for sale. For information call 956-464-5191. Loaded Tators, 05:00 PM, American Legion Post 37, 1305 E. Jasmine Ave., McAllen. For information call 956-682-7841. Jam, 05:30 PM, Restful Valley Ranch, 7130 W. Expressway 83, Mission. For information call 616-204-8067. Meat Draw Nite, 05:30 PM, American Legion Post 101, 417 S. Cage Blvd., Pharr. Reg. Chicken Wings - $5.00, Spicy Wings - $5.00, Fried Hot Dog $3.00, all orders come with fries or onion rings. Karaoke from 7:00-11:00 PM, for information call 956-787-7451. Big Band Jam, 06:30 PM, La Hacienda Estates, 1018 El Paseo Dr., Alamo. Located 1 mile south of Business 83 on Tower Rd., coffee and cookies available for a donation, soda & ice cream for sale. For information call 956-683-5160. Entertainment w/Ambassadors of Grace, 07:00 PM, Mission West RV Park, 511 E. Loop 374, Palmview. Donations requested, concessions available, for information call 956-585-5551.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 25, 2015 Christmas Dinner Buffet, 11:00 AM, Victoria Palms RV Resort, 602 N. Victoria Rd., Donna $15.95 pp. Call for information 956-782-3263.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 26, 2015 Acres Big Breakfast, 07:00 AM, Eldorado Acres RV Park, 610 N. FM

JAM SESSIONS

MEALS

492, Mission. Pancakes $2.50, Eggs, Hash browns, Toast $2.50, Meat $1.00 more, Biscuits & Gravy $2.50 and up. Hash browns, sausage and ham available. Free Coffee with meals. Bring your own table service. For information call 956-581-6718. All You Can Eat Pancakes, 07:00 AM, Alamo Paradise Acres, 1513 W. Crockett Ave., Alamo. Pancakes $2.50, biscuits & gravy $3.00. For information call 956-283-1771. Breakfast, 07:00 AM, Restful Valley Ranch, 7130 W. Expressway 83, Mission. $3.00 pp, Menu rotates. For information call 616-204-8067. Saturday Morning Breakfast, 07:00 AM, Chimney Park RV Resort, 4224 S. Conway, Mission. $4.00 pp, for information call 956-585-5061. Pancake Breakfast, 07:30 AM, Sunshine RV Resort, 1900 Grace Ave., Harlingen. For information call 956425-7448. Saturday Breakfast, 07:30 AM, Paradise Park, Inc., 100 E. Hackberry Ave., McAllen. Serving: Pancakes, sausage or ham, applesauce or grits, biscuits and gravy, eggs and toast are also available. Donations. For information

SALES

call 956-682-8081. Saturday Breakfast, 07:30 AM, Pleasant Valley Resort, 7320 Expressway 83, Mission. $3.50 pp, Sausage patty, scrambled eggs, fruit cup. Plus, “All you can eat French Toast & Pancakes” For information call 956-560-8454. Saturday Morning Breakfast, 07:30 AM, El Valle Del Sol/Luna, 2500 E. Business 83, Mission. All you can eat pancakes. Choice of ham or sausage. Biscuits and Gravy. Free Coffee. Please bring your own table service. For information call 956-585-5704. Songbird Stroll, 08:00 AM, Quinta Mazatlan, 600 Sunset, McAllen. Join an expert birder on a one hour bird walk for all skill levels! Over 200 species have been seen in the park since 2006! No experience Necessary, and loaner binoculars are available. Note: Large groups, please call in advance. $3 adults, $2 students & seniors. For information call 956-681-3370. Spectacular Saturdays!, 08:00 AM, Edinburg WBC, 714 Raul Longoria Dr., Edinburg. The weather is enjoyable and wildlife are arriving by the day. It is a wonderful time to get outside and enjoy nature. EWBC will open its doors

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS CONTINUED ON PAGE 8 >>

December 23, 2015 • • • Welcome

Home WINTER TEXAN • • • your official connection to the rio grande valley

DANCE ENTERTAINMENT & SHOWS SCHEDULE OF EVENTS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 7 for FREE to the public. Throughout the Bird Walks @ Resaca de la Palma, 08:30 day there will be puzzles, crafts, games, AM, Resaca de la Palma, 1000 New and guided nature hikes upon request. Carmen Blvd., Brownsville. Travel by Binoculars are available free of charge. foot or on our new and amazingly quiet NOTE: Free entry does not include fee electric trams to reach our destinations. for concurring programs and activities. We have many different trails to venture onto that are relatively flat and For information call 956-381-9922. Tai Chi in the Park, 08:00 AM, McAllen ADA accessible. With 1,200 acres of Nature Center, 4101 W. Business lush, riparian woodlands we will also 83, McAllen. This FREE program by be birding by ear. For information call instructor Sophie Wang! You are invited 956-350-2920. to participate in an hour of Tai Chi Volunteer Mornings, 08:30 AM, Quinta and meditation. Tai Chi has positive Mazatlan, 600 Sunset Dr., McAllen. effects on balance control, fitness Join our volunteer coordinator for a and flexibility. Elderly and people with fun morning of work and learning in disabilities can also work within their our native gardens! Students, earn limits. Wear comfortable clothing and your service hours at Quinta Mazatlan! flexible shoes, and bring water. Please We are also a site certified for Texas be prompt. This program is provided Master Naturalist hours. free of charge. For information call FREE Walking Tours, 09:00 AM, Java 956-681-3333. Cafe, 204 E. Jackson Ave., Harlingen. Winter Craft Day, 08:00 AM, Edinburg The walking tours depart from Java WBC, 714 Raul Longoria Rd., Edinburg. Café, 204 E.. Jackson, at 9:00 a.m. Winter is upon us and what a better way and last approximately 90 minutes. to spend it than by visiting the EWBC Participants should wear comfortable for our Winter Craft Day. Bring your walking shoes, dress for the weather, creativity and holiday cheer to make and come prepared to have fun. The fun winter inspired crafts such as paper tour also includes stops at several snowflakes, reindeer headbands, cotton larger-than-life-size murals and the snowmen and more. Free all day. For city’S. smallest park. Even locals will information call 956-381-9922. be amazed and entertained by what

ALAMO PALMS MOBILE HOME & RV RESORT

NEW YEAR’S EVE DANCE Dec. 31 – South Texas Whiskey Band 8:00pm-12:00am • $15 Singles / $25 Couples CRAFT SALES Wednesday: Jan. 13, Feb. 10, Mar. 9 8:00am - 12:00pm PATIO SALES Saturday: Jan. 16, Mar. 5 8:00am - 12:00pm CHURCH SERVICE Every Sunday: 9:00-10:00pm THURSDAY NIGHT DANCES Bands Change Weekly Starting January 7, 2016 • 7:00pm - 10:00pm SUNDAY NIGHT ENTERTAINMENT Entertainers Change Weekly Every Sunday • 1:00pm - 3:00pm COUNTRY / WESTERN JAM Every Monday: 9:00-10:00pm BIG BAND / JAZZ JAM Every Thursday: 1:00pm - 3:00pm Starting in January WINTER TEXAN ORCHESTRA February 13: 7:00pm - 9:00pm SQUARE DANCES Ron Betzelberger Wednesday Nights • 6:30pm - 9:00pm ROUND DANCES The Baldwins Sunday Nights • 6:30pm - 9:00pm SPECIAL ENCORE CONCERTS Jan. 18 – Tribute to Bee Gees 7:00pm-9:00pm • Tickets $12 Jan. 29 – Tribute to George Strait 7:00pm-9:00pm • Tickets $12

956-787-8870

1341 W. Bus. Hwy 83 • Alamo, TX Visit us at

RVontheGo.com RVSouthTexas.com

JAM SESSIONS

MEALS

SALES

they learn. For more information, call 956-216-4910. Growing Growers Farmers Market, 09:00 AM, Firemen Park, 201 N. First St., McAllen. Year Round Farmers Market with all local vegetables, fruits, herbs, 100% Certified Grass-fed Beef, Gulf Caught Shrimp, Artisan Goat Milk Cheese, Eggs, Honey, Jams, Jellies, and Fresh Baked Goods, including baked items for those on special diets. Located under a protected pavillion, with restrooms and kitchen for demonstrations. For information call 956-330-6410. Santa Ana Nature Walk, 09:00 AM, Santa Ana National Wildlife Refuge, Alamo. $3.00 pp. Every Saturday, a volunteer led nature walk through the trails at Santa Ana National Wildlife Refuge. Directions: The refuge and visitor center are 7 miles south of Alamo TX on FM 907 about 1/4 mile east on Hwy 281. 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. SPI Birding & Nature Center Guided

Nature Tour, 09:30 AM, SPI Birding & Nature Center. $3 plus admission Senior Saturdays, 10:00 AM, International Museum of Art & Science, 1900 W. Nolana Ave., McAllen. $5 General Admission Includes: FREE Coffee. FREE IMAS Guided Tour *Closed on major holidays and special occasions. For information call 956-682-0123. Square Dance w/Dorty Plus Dance, 10:00 AM, Tip O’Texas RV Resort, 101 E. Sioux Rd., Pharr. For information call Randy Dougherty 602-617-1841. Yoga in the Park, 10:00 AM, McAllen Nature Center, 4101 W. Business 83, McAllen. Yoga for Resilience is a yoga program designed to provide any person with the benefits of yoga practice. Yoga has immense benefits beyond the matintentional breathing relieves stress and tension within the body and mind while the physical movement increases circulation and range of motion in a gentle and gradual way. What to bring: A yoga mat or exercise mat, towel or small blanket. Water. Free admission. For information call 956-681-3333. The Market @ McAllen, 10:00 AM, McAllen Public Library. Every Saturday the community will now have access

COUNTRY SUNSHINE RV RESORT

FUN - N - SUN RV RESORT

LAKEWOOD RV RESORT

HAPPY HOUR

DECEMBER 2015

WEEKLY ACTIVITIES

Wednesdays 3-4:30pm • Pass the Hat Jan. 6, Feb. 3 • Diego Feb. 10 • South Texas Whiskey Band

December 31 New Year’s Eve Dance Swing Street Band 7 pm - 12:30 am • Dance Hall • $15, 20

New Years Eve • MC Express 8-12:30pm • $12.00 (Incl. breakfast) Jan. 9 • Pajama Party w/The Coins 7:00pm-10:00pm • $5.00 Jan. 16 • Jeff Gordon 7:00pm-10:00pm • $6.00

JANUARY 2016

DANCES

ENTERTAINMENT

Jan. 3 • Bill Chrastil Show 7:00pm • $6.00 Jan. 17 • Johnathan Edwards Positive Variety Show 7:00pm • $6.00

OTHER ACTIVITIES

Jan. 22 • Specialty Swimwear 1:00-3:00pm in the Main Hall

SPECIAL ENCORE CONCERT

Tickets in Advance • $14 & $12 At the Door • $15 Jan. 28 • Vegas Tribute to Reba McEntyre Starring Corrie Sachs • 7:00pm Feb. 25 – Troubadour Experience: An Incredible Tribute to George Strait 7:00pm

956-638-3158

1601 S. Airport Dr. • Weslaco, TX Visit us at

RVontheGo.com RVSouthTexas.com

January 8 Dance - Texas Country Band 7 pm - 10 pm • Dance Hall • $5.00 January 9 Ham Radio Swap Meet 8 am - 12 noon • Rec Hall January 9 Classic Rock & Roll Dance World of Sports Theme 7 pm - 10 pm • Dance Hall • $5.00 January 15 Dance - Texas Country Band 7 pm - 10 pm • Dance Hall • $5.00 January 16 Saturday Night Fever Tribute to the Bee Gees 7 pm - 10 pm • Dance Hall • $12,13,14,15 January 18 Mama’s Wranglers 7 pm - 10 pm • Dance Hall • $6,7,8,10 January 22 Dance - Texas Country Band 7 pm - 10 pm • Dance Hall • $5.00

956-399-5800

1400 Zillock Rd. • San Benito, TX Visit us at

RVontheGo.com RVSouthTexas.com

Open to the Public

Monday: Lunch served • 11:30am – 12:30pm (varied menu, freshly cooked) Square Dance • 1:00pm Tuesday: Round Dance • 9:30am Jam Sessions • 1:00pm Bingo • 7:00pm Wednesday: Square & Round • 1:00pm -2:30pm • 7:00pm Line Dance • 1:00pm - 3:00pm Thursday: Tops Weight Control • 7:30am Square Dance • 3:00pm Friday: Round Dance • 1:00pm Saturday: Breakfast served • 8:00am – 9:00am (varied menu, freshly cooked) Sunday: Church Service • 9:20am Round Dance • 2:30pm

DANCES

Popcorn & Soda Available

New Years Eve with Doug Borman 8:00pm • $7.00 Jan. 16 • Madelyn Victoria 7:00pm • $5.00

ENTERTAINMENT Jan. 3 • J.C. Harrison 7:00pm • $7.00

956-428-7116

4525 Graham Rd. • Harlingen, TX Visit us at

RVontheGo.com RVSouthTexas.com

www.welcomehomergv.com • • • December 23, 2015

DANCE ENTERTAINMENT & SHOWS to local farmers, ranchers, chefs, and artisans each contributing to the healthy life style changes our community desperately needs. Entertainment w/Lynn Dvorak, 11:00 AM, Don-Wes Flea Market, 208 N. Victoria Rd., Donna. For more information call 402-640-4739 Country Jam Lunch, 11:00 AM, Winter Ranch RV Resort, 600 St. Hwy 495, Alamo. For information call 956-7834587. Boat Ride/River Tour, 12:00 PM, Riverside Club, 214 E. Chimney Rd., Mission. For information call 956-581-1033. Country Jam, 12:00 PM, Winter Ranch RV Resort, 600 Hwy 495, Alamo. Join us for lunch at 11:00 am. For information call 956-783-4587. Country Jam, 12:30 PM, Green Gate Grove, 700 N. Bentsen Palm Dr., Mission. Lunch is served from 11:00 am - 12:00 pm. For more information call 956-581-2932. Jam Session, 12:30 PM, Weslaco Trailer Park, 600 S. Bridge Ave., Weslaco. Lunch will start December 12th from 11:00 am to 12:30 pm. For information call 956968-3474. Jam Session, 12:30 PM, Big Valley Trailer Park, 109 E. Business

DANCE

Dec. 31 • New Year’s Eve Party 8:00pm-12:00pm (Nite Life Production) Jan. 5 • Diego • 7:00pm Jan. 12 • Southern Night Band • 7:00pm Jan. 19 • Castaways • 7:00pm Jan. 26 • Highway 100 • 7:00pm Feb. 2 • Diego • 7:00pm Feb. 9 • Fred Goldsberry • 7:00pm Feb. 16 • Bushriders • 7:00pm Feb. 23 • Rolando Reyes • 7:00pm

ENTERTAINMENT

Jan.6 • Richard Lynch • 7:00pm Jan. 9 • JC Harrison • 7:00pm Jan. 11 • Bee Gees Tribute Show • 7:00pm Jan. 13 • Goldwin Express • 7:00pm Jan. 20 • Texas Sweethearts • 7:00pm Jan. 25 • Reba Tribute Show • 7:00pm Jan. 27 • Mama’s Wranglers • 7:00pm Feb. 3 • Bill Chastile • 7:00pm Feb. 8 • Manilow & Midler Tribute Show 7:00pm Feb. 10 • Terry Smith • 7:00pm Feb. 17 • Jason Wharlow • 7:00pm Feb. 22 • George Strait Tribute Show • 7:00pm

OTHER ACTIVITIES

Jan. 22 • Craft Show • 8:00am-12:00 pm Contact the Activity Office for Tickets and Availability.

MERRY CHRISTMAS HAPPY NEW YEAR!

956-425-6881

1201 N. Expwy 77 • Harlingen, TX Visit us at

RVontheGo.com RVSouthTexas.com

Highway 83, Donna. For information call 989-424-1299. Karaoke, 03:00 PM, Winter Ranch RV Resort, 600 Hwy 495, Alamo. FREE Admission, For information call 956-783-4587. Harlingen Farmers Market, 03:00 PM, Downtown Harlingen, ‘A’ Street. The Market location is on ‘A’ Street between Jackson and Monroe, behind Grimsells and in front of New York Deli. Producers supply residents of Harlingen and surrounding communities with the freshest locally grown food available. There is a bountiful harvest being sold every week here - come take advantage of the best Harlingen has to offer! Hamburger & Karaoke Nite, 05:00 PM, Restful Valley Ranch, 7130 W. Expressway 83, Mission. 5:00 pm sign up sheet for burgers, $5.00 pp. 6:00 pm Karaoke begins. For information call 616-204-8067. Hamburger Night & Karaoke, 05:30 PM, Sleepy Valley Resort, 2301 N. Abram Rd., Mission. $6.00 pp. Hamburger, chips, soda and dessert for $6.00, serving at 5:30. Karaoke follows. For information call 956-581-1871. Country Music Jam, 06:00 PM, AmeriCana RV Resort, 721 N. Bentsen

JAM SESSIONS

SOUTHERN COMFORT RV RESORT

HAPPY HOUR

HAPPY HOUR with DIEGO

Hamburgers/Hot Dogs Available for $$$

Dec. 23 • Regan James Jan. 6 • Dan White Jan. 13 • Carlos Canos Jan. 20 • Lynn Dvorak

SATURDAY NIGHT DANCES 7:00pm-10:00pm

*Indicates SPECIAL Dance, Costumes and Theme Attire Optional

Dec. 26 • Jim Staton • $5 *New Years Eve Dance! Susan Stone & Dan White 8:00pm-12:00am • $6 Jan. 2 • Tavie Rock N Roll • $6 Jan. 9 • Carlos Canos • $5 Jan. 16 • Susan Stone & Dan White • $6

ENTERTAINMENT

Dec. 27 • Ambassadors of Grace 7:00pm-9:00pm • $6 Jan. 3 • Southern Anthem 7:00pm-9:00pm • $6 Jan. 10 • Mario 7:00pm-10:00pm • $7

CRAFT SHOW

Jan. 14 • Craft Show 8:00am-12:00pm

SPECIAL CONCERTS

Jan. 15 • Saturday Night Fever The International Bee Gees Tribute 7:00pm-10:00pm • Call for Tickets!

956-565-0501

9099 N. Mile 2 West Rd. • Mercedes, TX Visit us at

RVontheGo.com RVSouthTexas.com

SALES

Palm Dr., Mission. Open Country Jam. Entertainment w/Dirty River Band, 07:00 Everyone welcome. Light lunch served PM, American Legion Post 37, 1305 E. for donation. AmeriCana RV Resort is Jasmine Ave., McAllen. For information south of business 83 on Bentsen Palm call 956-682-7841. Dr. 956-581-2334. Karaoke, 07:00 PM, American Legion Dance w/Hot Rodz, 07:00 PM, Trophy Post 101, 417 S. Cage Blvd., Pharr. Gardens RV Resort, 800 Hwy 495, For information call 956-787-7451. Alamo. $5.00 pp. For information call Dance w/Terry Porter Rowe, 07:30 PM, 956-783-1003. Eastgate MH & RV Park, 2801 E. Dance w/Jim Staton, 07:00 PM, Harrison Ave., Harlingen. $5.00 pp, Paradise South RV Resort, 9099 N. BYOB, Popcorn & Ice provided. For Mile 2 West Rd., Mercedes. $5.00 pp, more information call 815-494-5159. for information call 956-825-9509. Port Isabel Historic Ghost Tours, 08:00 Dance w/Ken Thompson, 07:00 PM, Snow PM, Port Isabel Light House. Every to Sun RV Resort, 1701 N. International Saturday evening at 8 pm. One hour Blvd., Weslaco. $5.00 pp. BYOB. Wine walking tour begins at the Port Isabel and beer sold at bar. Free ice. For Lighthouse. Cost: $10 per person. information call 956-756-4958. Tickets available at the Port Isabel Dance w/Manuel Rivera, 07:00 PM, Chamber of Commerce, City Hall and Cottonwood Country Club, 1001 Museums of Port Isabel. For more Ed Carey Dr., Harlingen. $6.00 pp. information, contact the Chamber BYOB, For more information call office at 943-2262. 218-234-6411 or 956-438-6232. Dance w/Ron E. Band, 07:00 PM, SUNDAY, DECEMBER 27, 2015 Tropical Valley Acres, 1240 E. Bus. Hwy 83, Mission. For information call Church Service, 08:30 AM, Bentsen 956-583-5582 Grove Resort, 810 Bentsen Palm Dr., Dance w/Texas Country Band, 07:00 Mission. Non-denominational services. PM, Casa del Valle, 1048 N. Alamo For information call 956-585-0703 Rd., Alamo. $5.00 pp. For information Church Service, 08:30 AM, Trails call 956-783-5008. End RV Resort, 2001 S. Texas Blvd., SCHEDULE OF EVENTS CONTINUED ON PAGE 10 >>

PARADISE SOUTH RV RESORT

3:30pm-5:00pm • BYOB • Pass the Hat

MEALS

3:00-4:30pm • Pass the Hat Jan. 6 • Jan. 20 • Feb. 17 • Mar. 30

DANCES

New Years Eve with Bill Chrastil 8:00-12:30pm • $18 (includes light snack)

SUNDAY ENTERTAINMENT

Dec. 27 • Jeff Gordon • 7:00pm • $6.00 Jan. 5 • Jason Whorlow • 7:00pm • $7.00

OTHER ACTIVITIES

Non-Denominational Church Services Every Sunday • 9:00am Jam Sessions Every Monday • Dec. 7-Feb. 29 Lunch @ 11:00am • Jams @ 12:00pm Craft Shows Jan. 12 • 8:00am-12:00pm Casino Night: Fundraiser for Mabel’s Clinic Jan. 21 • 4:00-8:00pm • $15.00

SPECIAL ENCORE CONCERT

Tickets in Advance • $14 & $12 At the Door • $15 Jan. 14 • Saturday Night Fever: The International Tribute to the Bee Gee’s 7:00pm Feb. 25 • The Incredible Tribute to Barry Manilow & Bette Midler 7:00pm

956-638-3158

1501 S. Airport Dr. • Weslaco, TX Visit us at

RVontheGo.com RVSouthTexas.com

SUNSHINE RV RESORT

DANCES / SHOWS

Dec. 30 • Dance w/The Jets 7:00pm • $4.00 Jan. 9 • Johnny Ray Gomez Show 7:00pm • $6.00 Jan. 16 • Kenny Hess Show 7:00pm • $7.00

HAPPY HOUR FISH FRY Friendship Hall • 4:00PM $7 in Advance • $8 at Door January 1 • Winston January 15 • Claude

CONCERT SERIES

Friendship Hall • 7:00PM General $12 • Preferred Seating $15 January 13 • Bee Gees Tribute January 27 • Reba McIntyre Tribute

OTHER ACTIVITIES

Jan. 16 • Craft Show 8:00AM-12:00 Noon • Recreation Hall Jan. 9 • Patio Sales 8:00AM-12:00 Noon • Recreation Hall Every Wednesday • Jam Session 12:30PM • Recreation Hall Every Thursday • Can/Am Dance 3:30PM • Recreation Hall Every Sunday • Church Service 10:00AM • Recreation Hall Every Saturday • Pancake Breakfast 7:30AM-9:30AM • Recreation Hall

956-425-7448

1900 Grace Ave. • Weslaco, TX Visit us at

RVontheGo.com RVSouthTexas.com

December 23, 2015 • • • Welcome

Home WINTER TEXAN • • • your official connection to the rio grande valley

DANCE ENTERTAINMENT & SHOWS SCHEDULE OF EVENTS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 9 Weslaco. Deacon Bob Waters, in Church Service, 09:00 AM, Citrus Valley the park library. All Welcome. For RV Park, 2901 W. Hwy 107, McAllen. information call 956-968-5051. Pastor Jim Troutman. For information Church Service, 08:30 AM, Victoria call 956-383-8189. Palms Inn & Suites , 602 N. Victoria Church Service, 09:00 AM, Trophy Rd., Donna. Call for information Gardens RV Resort, 800 Hwy 956-782-3263 495, Alamo. Non-Denominational Church Service, 08:45 AM, San Juan Service with Pastor Darrel Hardy. For Gardens RV Resort, 900 E. Business information call 956-783-1003. 83, San Juan. Pastor Len Mitchell. Church Service, 09:00 AM, Siesta Public is welcome to attend. For Village, 2712 S. International Blvd., information call 956-781-1082. Weslaco. Pastor Ralph Hunt. For Church Service, 08:45 AM, Oleander information call 956-969-3558. Acres RV Resort, 2421 S. Conway Church Service, 09:00 AM, Eastgate Ave., Mission. For information call MH & RV Park, 2801 E. Harrison Ave., 262-497-4241. Harlingen. Pastor David Squire, For Church Service, 08:45 AM, Winter information call 956-423-3137. Haven Park, 1015 W. Sam Houston Church Service, 09:00 AM, Alamo Blvd., Pharr. Pastor Robert Kracht. For Palms Mobile Park, 1341 W. Business information call 956-781-7881. Hwy 83, Alamo. Pastor Brian Dent. For Church Service, 09:00 AM, Southern information call 956-787-7571. Comfort RV Resort, 1501 S. Airport Church Service, 09:00 AM, Winter Dr., Weslaco. For information call Ranch RV Resort, 600 State Hwy 495, 956-638-3158. Alamo. Pastor Frisby Worship Leader. Church Service, 09:00 AM, Hidden Valley Fellowship at 8:30. Coffee, cookies Ranch, 7600 Long Dr., Mission. Coffee and desserts. and refreshments available at 8:30. Church Service, 09:00 AM, Fiesta Village Services with Pastor Cameron Gillette. RV Park, 205 S. Stewart Rd., Mission. Church Service, 09:00 AM, Chimney Park For information call 956-585-9264. RV Resort, 4224 S. Conway, Mission. Church Service, 09:00 AM, Big For information call 956-585-5061. Valley Trailer Park, 109 W. Bus.

TROPIC WINDS RV RESORT

DANCES

Dec. 31 • Highway 100 8:00pm • $15.00

ENTERTAINMENT

December 23 Dale & Gayle Christmas Show 7:00pm • $5.00 advance/$6.00 at door Jan. 9 • Betty Rydell Show 7:00pm • $5.00 advance / $6.00 at door

CRAFT SHOW

January 7 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM Breakfast Menu 8:00 AM to 10:00 AM Lunch Menu 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM

NON DENOMINATIONAL CHURCH SERVCE Every Sunday 9:30 AM to 10:30 AM

LESSONS

Tuesdays Beginning Line Dancing 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM Tuesdays Intermediate Line Dancing 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM Fridays Advanced Line Dancing 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM

956-423-5484

1501 N. Loop 499 • Harlingen, TX Visit us at

RVontheGo.com RVSouthTexas.com

VICTORIA PALMS RV RESORT

DANCES/SHOWS/CONCERTS

Dec. 29 • Dance w/Louis Gomes 7:00 pm • $5.00 pp • BYOB concessions for purchase Dec. 31 • New Years Eve Comedy Magic Show Dance w/Pelican West Doors Open 6:30 pm • Photo Booth $10 Jan. 5 • Dance w/Louis Gomez 7:00 pm • $5.00 pp • BYOB concessions for purchase Jan. 9 • Craft Fair 8:00 am – 12:00 Noon • Ballroom Jan. 9 • Dance w/The Agency 7:00 pm • $8.00 pp • BYOB concessions for purchase Jan. 11 • Greg Jones Show 7:00 pm • $8.00 pp • Concessions for purchase Jan. 12 • Richard Lynch Band 7:00 pm • $7.00 pp • BYOB concessions for purchase Jan. 13 • Dance w/Jammers (Rock & Roll) 6:00 pm • $2.00 pp • BYOB concessions for purchase Jan. 14 • Dance w/Swing Street Big Band 7:00 pm • $7.00 pp • BYOB concessions for purchase Jan. 17 • Saturday Night Fever (Concert) 7:00 pm Jan. 18 • Steel Drums McAllen High School 7:00 pm • Donations Jan. 19 • Dance w/Louis Gomez 7:00 pm • $5.00 pp • BYOB concessions for purchase Jan. 20 • Kenny Hess (Concert) 7:00 pm Jan. 21 • Dance w/The Cruisers 7:00 pm • $10.00 pp • BYOB concessions for purchase

956-782-3200

602 N. Victoria Rd. • Donna, TX Visit us at

RVontheGo.com RVSouthTexas.com

JAM SESSIONS

MEALS

Highway 83, Donna. For information call 989-424-1299. Village Chapel Church Service, 09:00 AM, Tip O’Texas RV Resort, 101 E. Sioux Rd., Pharr. For information call 956-787-6461. Church Service, 09:15 AM, Sleepy Valley Resort, 2301 N. Abram Rd., Mission. For information call 956-581-1871. Church Service, 09:30 AM, Country Palms RV Park, 600 E. FM 495, San Juan. Pastor Tom Shouse, for information call 956-787-0680. Church Service, 09:30 AM, Tropic Winds RV Resort, 1501 N. Loop 499, Harlingen. For information call 956-423-5484. Church Service, 09:30 AM, Pharr South, 1402 S. Cage Blvd., Pharr. Dr. Gerald Parrott, coffee fellowship to follow service, For information call 956-358-1089 or 956-781-2715. Church Service, 09:30 AM, Casa Del Sol RV Park, 400 N. Val Verde Rd., Donna. For information call 956-464-2272. Church Service, 10:00 AM, Paradise Resort Estates, 301 E. Hall Acres Rd., Pharr. For information call 956-787-1521. Church Service, 10:00 AM, AmeriCana RV Resort, 721 N. Bentsen Palm Dr., Mission. Pastor Lee Tracy. Coffee social following the service. For information call 956-581-2334. Church Service, 10:00 AM, Sunshine RV Resort, 1900 Grace Ave., Harlingen. For information call 956-425-7448. Yoga in the Park, 10:00 AM, McAllen Nature Center, 4101 W. Business 83, McAllen. This FREE program is led by staff instructor Jackelin Trevino. Yoga for Resilience is a yoga program designed to provide any person with the benefits of yoga practice. You do not have to be flexible or fit to do yoga! With personalized instruction and custom poses to work for any body type and skill level Yoga for Resilience will support you in your journey to greater calm and joy in all that you do. What to bring: A yoga mat or exercise mat, towel or small blanket. Water. Mindfulness & Meditation, 11:00 AM, McAllen Nature Center, 4101 W. Business 83, Mission. Learn how mindfulness and meditation can provide a sense of peace amongst the hectic lifestyle that most of us live! We’ll spend a few minutes talking about the purpose and benefits of mindfulness, walk the trails slowly for about 20 minutes (walking meditation), and finish with about 20 minutes of stationary meditation in nature under the shade of our beautiful native trees. Free admission. For information call 956-681-3333. Farmer’s Market @ The Shores, SPI, 11:00 AM, The Shores, 8500 Padre Blvd., SPI. Fresh produce, fresh eggs, fresh seafood! Healthy shopping for healthy foods. Located at ‘The Shores’

SALES

north of SPI Convention Centre. Every Sunday 11am-1pm. Gospel Jam, 01:30 PM, Mission West RV Park, 511 E.. Loop 374, Palmview. Concessions Available. For information call 956-585-5551. Jam, 01:30 PM, Eldorado Acres RV Park, 610 N. FM 492, Mission. Cake & coffee served, for information call 956-581-6718. Shuffleboard Tournament, 02:00 PM, American Legion Post 37, 1305 E. Jasmine Ave., McAllen. Max’s Grill open 2:00 pm - 5:00 pm. For information call 956-682-7841 Live Music!, 02:00 PM, Riverside Club Bar & Grill, 214 E. Chimney Rd., Mission. For information call 956-581-1033. Pulled Pork Sandwich w/Baked Beans, 02:00 PM, Riverside Club, 214 E. Chimney Rd., Mission. For information call 956-581-1033. Social Walkers, 02:00 PM, McAllen Nature Center, 4101 W. Business 83, McAllen. A little bit of exercise, a little bit of chatting, a whole lot of fun! A very informal program for people of any age and ability to come out and enjoy our nature and our trails with others. All of our trails are ADA accessible. McAllen Nature Center admission and programs are free of charge. For information call 956-681-3333. Round Dance, 02:30 PM, Lakewood RV Resort, 4525 Graham Rd., Harlingen. For information call 956-423-1170. Ice Cream Social, 02:30 PM, Mission West RV Park, 511 E.. Loop 374, Palmview. Gospel Jam, 05:30 PM, Oleander Acres RV Resort, 2421 S. Conway Ave., Mission. Root Beer floats served at halftime for $1.00. For information call 956-585-9093. BBQ & Potluck, 05:30 PM, American Legion Post 101, 417 S. Cage Blvd., Pharr. Football, BBQ, Free Pot Luck, for information call 956-787-7451. Entertainment w/Melodie & Allen, 06:00 PM, American Legion Post 37, 1305 E. Jasmine Ave., McAllen. For information call 956-682-7841. Country Jam, 06:00 PM, Sleepy Valley Resort, 2301 N. Abram Rd., Mission. FREE Admission. For information call 956-581-1871. Gospel Jam, 06:00 PM, Bluebonnet RV Resort, 3366 N. Bentsen Park Dr., Mission. For information call 956-585-7630. Jam Session, 06:00 PM, Tip O’Texas RV Resort, 101 E. Sioux Rd., Pharr. FREE Admission. For information call 956-787-6461. PH II, III & IV Round Dance Party, 06:30 PM, Alamo Palms, 1341 W. Business 83, Alamo. Tampico Hall. For information call 765-384-7270. Entertainment w/Diego, 06:30 PM, Alamo Paradise Acres, 1513 W. Crockett, Alamo. Donations. For

www.welcomehomergv.com • • • December 23, 2015

DANCE ENTERTAINMENT & SHOWS information call 956-283-1771. Entertainment w/Myra Green Christmas Show, 06:30 PM, Citrus Valley RV Park, 2901 W. State Highway 107, McAllen. For information call 715-928-2347. Christmas Dance w/Lynn Dvorak, 07:00 PM, La Hacienda Estates, 1018 El Paseo Dr., Alamo. $7.00 pp, BYOB, popcorn, soda and ice available. For more information call 402-640-4739. Entertainment w/Ambassadors of Grace, 07:00 PM, Paradise South RV Resort, 9099 N. Mile 2 West Rd., Mercedes. $6.00 pp. For information call 956-825-9509. Entertainment w/Dixon & Company, 07:00 PM, Leisure World, 400 E. 18th St., Weslaco $5.00 pp, For information call 956-447-3821. Entertainment w/Jeff Gordon, 07:00 PM, Southern Comfort RV Resort, 1501 S. Airport Dr., Weslaco. $6.00 pp. For information call 956-638-3158. Entertainment w/Lindley Creek, 07:00 PM, Winter Ranch RV Resort, 600 State Hwy 495, Alamo. $7.00 pp. For information call 956-783-4587. Free Movie, 07:00 PM, Paradise Resort Estates, 301 E. Hall Acres Rd., Pharr. Free admission, for information call 956-223-9359. Listing of movies available on website, pharrparadisepark.sharepoint.com. Snack bar open.

MONDAY, DECEMBER 28, 2015 Operation Imagination Holiday Camp, 09:00 AM, International Museum of Art & Science, 1900 W. Nolana Ave., McAllen. Just for kids in grades Pre-K8, Each half-day program includes a hands-on science activity, a handson art activity, a Science on a Sphere presentation or an Animal Talk plus exploration time in the museum. Call 956-682-0123 to register. Full Day sessions are from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm, please bring a brown bag lunch. Half Day sessions from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm or 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm, Before Care from 8:00 am to 9:00 am, After Care from 4:00 pm to 5:30 pm *Only 25 seats available per sessions. Mindfulness & Meditation, 09:30 AM, McAllen Nature Center, 4101 W. Business 83, McAllen. Learn how mindfulness and meditation can provide a sense of peace amongst the hectic lifestyle that most of us live! We’ll spend a few minutes talking about the purpose and benefits of mindfulness, walk the trails slowly for about 20 minutes (walking meditation), and finish with about 20 minutes of stationary meditation in nature under the shade of our beautiful native trees. This program is provided FREE of charge! A donation box is available at the sign-in table. All donations are used to purchase

native plants for the property. For information call 956-681-3333. Power Walk, 10:00 AM, Sleepy Valley Resort, 2301 N. Abram Rd., Mission. Come have a great time walking. Indoors in the Clubhouse. Walk for fun, to take the pounds off, enjoy the fellowship of others. For information call 956-581-1871. Beginning Line Dance, 11:00 AM, Casa del Valle, 1048 N. Alamo Rd., Alamo. For information call 956-783-5008. Jam Session, 11:00 AM, Southern Comfort RV Resort, 1501 S. Airport Dr., Weslaco. Lunch served at 11:00 am, Jam starts at 12:00 pm. For information call 956-638-3158. Jam Lunch, 11:30 AM, Enchanted Valley Ranch, 7300 Monroe St., Mission. Variable menu each week. For information call 956-519-8597. Boat Ride/River Tour, 12:00 PM, Riverside Club, 214 E. Chimney Rd., Mission. For information call 956-581-1033. Line Dance, 12:30 PM, Casa del Valle, 1048 N. Alamo Rd., Alamo. For information call 956-783-5008. Open Variety Jam, 12:30 PM, Alamo Rec Veh Park, 1320 W. Frontage Rd., Alamo. Lunch is served at 11:00 am every Monday. Menu varies each week. For information call 956-783-5440. Yahoo, 01:00 PM, Sleepy Valley Resort, 2301 N. Abram Rd., Mission. Come enjoy a quite afternoon playing Yahoo with your friends. For information call 956-581-1871. Beginner Line Dance Class, 01:00 PM, AmeriCana RV Resort, 721 N. Bentsen Palm Dr., Mission. Beginning line dancing with basic steps fully explained and directed. For information call 956591-2334. Dance Lessons, 01:00 PM, Leisure Valley Park, 1920 East Bogey Dr., Mission. $6.00/person, couples may start at any time. For information call 956-424-1858. Jam, 01:00 PM, Winter Haven Park, 1015 W. Sam Houston Blvd., Pharr. Jam sessions are directed by Glenn “Buddy” Collins. Jammers by invitation only. Free admission, cookies available. Everyone come and enjoy music and social time. For information call 956-781-7881. Jam Session, 01:00 PM, Wagon City North, 2905 N. Conway Ave., Mission. All Jammers & Listeners are welcome. For information call 515-802-9421. Come have a good time! Jam Session, 01:00 PM, Alamo Palms Resort, 1341 W. Business 83, Alamo. Main Hall. Everyone welcome, for information call 956-787-7571. Rock & Roll Jam, 01:00 PM, Enchanted Valley Ranch, 7300 Monroe St., Mission. For information call 956-519-8597. Newbie Clogging!, 01:15 PM, Tip

JAM SESSIONS

MEALS

O’Texas RV Resort, 101 E. Sioux Rd., Pharr. $4.00 donation. Each session is progressive, come when you can and stay as late as you want. For information call Jim: 956-781-2275. ZUMBA Class, 02:00 PM, Sleepy Valley Resort, 2301 N. Abram Rd., Mission. FREE Admission, Enjoy a ZUMBA class with certified instructors, Pierre and Sylvie, for information call 956-581-1871. PH III Round Dance/Workshop, 02:00 PM, Alamo Palms, 1341 W. Business 83, Tampico Hall. For information call 765-384-7270. Experienced Clogging!, 02:25 PM, Tip O’Texas RV Resort, 101 E. Sioux Rd., Pharr. Each session is progressive, come when you can and stay as late as you want. $4 donation. Info: Jim: (956) 781-2275. Square Dance, 03:00 PM, Lakewood RV Resort, 4525 Graham Rd., Harlingen. For information call 956-423-1170. Happy Hour w/Diego, 03:00 PM, Snow to Sun RV Resort, 1701 N. International Blvd., Weslaco. Pass the Hat. BYOB. Wine and beer sold at bar. Free ice. For information call 620-441-1173. Hamburger Night, 03:30 PM, Mission West RV Park. Charbroiled Hamburgers

SALES

$3.50, Charbroiled Cheeseburgers $3.75. Charbroiled Grilled Chicken Sandwich $5.25, French Fries $1.75, Onion Rings $2.25, Pies $1.25 PH II Workshop, 04:00 PM, Alamo Palms, 1341 W. Business 83, Alamo. Tampico Hall. For information call 765-384-7270. Entertainment w/Ed-Vern, 04:00 PM, Palms II Lounge, 600 E. 9th St., Mission. Great food, no smoke, BYOB. Dinner, 04:30 PM, Bentsen Grove Resort, 810 Bentsen Palm Dr., Mission. $6.50 pp, check each week for menu! For information call 956-585-0704. Spaghetti Dinner, 04:30 PM, American Legion Post 439, 219 E. Commercial Ave, La Feria. $8 pp 956-797-3701 Soup Supper for Needy Families, 05:00 PM, Pleasant Valley Resort, 7320 W. Expressway 83, Mission. For information call 956-580-8454. Burgers, 05:00 PM, Paradise Park, Inc., 100 E. Hackberry Ave., McAllen. For information call 956-682-8081. Hamburger Nite, 05:30 PM, American Legion Post 101, 417 S. Cage Blvd., Pharr. Hamburger - $7.00, Cheeseburger - $7.50, Extra Patty $3.00, Large FF - $2.50, Small Onion Ring - $3.50, Extra Cheese - $.50,

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS CONTINUED ON PAGE 12 >>

December 23, 2015 • • • Welcome

Home WINTER TEXAN • • • your official connection to the rio grande valley

DANCE ENTERTAINMENT & SHOWS SCHEDULE OF EVENTS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 11 Small FF - $2.00, for information call have been seen in the park since 2006! No experience necessary, and 956-787-7451. Country Jam, 06:00 PM, The Grove, loaner binoculars are available. Note: 612 Business 83, San Juan. For Large groups, please call in advance. information call 507-219-0579. $3 adults, $2 students & seniors. For Country Jam, 06:00 PM, Mission West information call 956-681-3370. RV Park, 511 E.. Loop 374, Palmview. Chip-O-Texas Woodcarvers, 08:30 Concessions Available. For information AM, Park Place Estates, 5401 W. Business 83, Harlingen. Friendship call 956-585-5551. Magic Valley Chorus Of Sweet Adelines Hall. Come join us! For information International, 07:00 PM, St. Mark’s call 956-399-6660. United Methodist Church, McAllen. Bird Walk, 08:30 AM, Edinburg WBC, Shirley 956-661-9926. Janet 956- 714 Raul Longoria Rd., Edinburg. 682-8245. Practices held every Join the EWBC Naturalist for weekly Monday 7-10 pm @ St. Mark’s. Bird Walks. No level of experience is United Methodist Church, McAllen. required. Come and see what’s been Entertainment w/Jeff Gordon, 07:00 showing up at the Wetlands throughout PM, Palm Shadows RV Park, 200 N. the week! These programs are free with Val Verde Rd., Donna. $6.00 pp. For paid admission or membership. Tours information call 956-464-3326. are available in English or Spanish. For Entertainment w/Lindley Creek, 07:00 information call 956-381-9922. PM, Lemon Tree RV Inn, 1740 E. Operation Imagination Holiday Camp, Business 83, Mission. $7.00 pp, For 09:00 AM, International Museum of information call 262-395-3509. Art & Science, 1900 W. Nolana Ave., McAllen. Just for kids in grades Pre-KTUESDAY, DECEMBER 29, 2015 8. Each half-day program includes a hands-on science activity, a handsSongbird Stroll, 08:00 AM, Quinta on art activity, a Science on a Sphere Mazatlan, 600 Sunset, McAllen. Join presentation or an Animal Talk plus an expert birder on a one hour bird walk exploration time in the museum. Call for all skill levels! Over 200 species 956-682-0123 to register. Full Day

DANCE

Every Saturday FREE Popcorn and Ice Dance w/Sweet Water December 26 • 7:00 PM $6.00 pp • BYOB Dance w/Agency December 31 • 7:00 PM $17.00 pp • BYOB Dance w/Cruisers January 9 • 7:00 PM $10.00 pp • BYOB Dance w/Pelican West January 16 • 7:00 PM $7.00 pp • BYOB

HAPPY HOUR

Happy Hour w/Diego January 14 • 3:00 PM Pass the Hat • BYOB

ENTERTAINMENT

CSN Tribute January 8 • 7:00 PM $25.00 pp Bernie & Red January 10 • 7:00 PM $6.00 pp Redhead Express January 15 • 7:00 PM $10.00 pp • BYOB Freddie & Sheila Pelletier January 31 • 7:00 PM $6.00 pp

JAM

Every Friday January 15 • 2:00 PM January 22 • 2:00 PM

KARAOKE

Every Wednesday Karaoke w/Harry & Judy December 23 • 5:00 PM December 30 • 5:00 PM BYOB

JAM SESSIONS

MEALS

sessions are from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm, please bring a brown bag lunch. Half Day sessions from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm or 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm, Before Care from 8:00 am to 9:00 am, After Care from 4:00 pm to 5:30 pm *Only 25 seats available per sessions. Beginning Line Dance, 09:00 AM, Tropic Winds RV Resort, 1501 N. Loop 499, Harlingen. For information call 956-423-5484. Square Dance Plus w/Butch Danielski, 09:30 AM, Pine To Palm Resort Park, 802 S. International Blvd., Weslaco. $4.50 pp, Rounds at 9:30 with Marge Scherrill. Square Dance at 10 am. Contact information call 956-973-8335. Power Walk, 10:00 AM, Sleepy Valley Resort, 2301 N. Abram Rd., Mission. Come have a great time walking. Indoors in the Clubhouse. Walk for fun, to take the pounds off, enjoy the fellowship of others. For information call 956-581-1871. FREE Zumba Classes, 10:00 AM, South Padre Island KOA, 1 Padre Blvd., South Padre Island. For information call 956-761-5665. Countrycising - Line dance + exercise, 10:00 AM, Casa del Valle, 1048 N.

SALES

Alamo Rd., Alamo. For information call 956-783-5008. Dance Lessons, 10:00 AM, Victoria Palms Inn & Suites, 602 N. Victoria Rd., Donna. $6.00/person. Couples may start at any time Intermediate Line Dance, 10:00 AM, Tropic Winds RV Resort, 1501 N. Loop 499, Harlingen. For information call 956-423-5484. Water Aerobics, 11:00 AM, Sleepy Valley Resort, 2301 N. Abram Rd., Mission. Come join us for a great time. Great way to relax, exercise and meet people. For information call 956-581-1871. Women’S. Bible Study, 11:00 AM, Tropic Winds RV Resort, 1501 N. Loop 499, Harlingen. For information call 956-423-5484. Art in the Park, 11:00 AM, McAllen Nature Center, 4101 W. Business 83, McAllen. Join a staff artist for a fun project under the oak trees. Projects vary from painting a reusable cloth grocery bag, to sharpie markers on ceramic tiles, to watercolors, sketching and more. Ages 15 and up only. No exceptions. McAllen Nature Center admission and programs are free of charge. A donation box is available. All donations are used to purchase native

YOUR PARK CAN ADVERTISE HERE! Do you have upcoming events that you would like to share with others? Send us the details and we can help spread the word.

Call today

956-687-5115

www.welcomehomergv.com • • • December 23, 2015

DANCE ENTERTAINMENT & SHOWS plants for the site. *Some Art in the Park programs may offer an optional fee for upgraded materials. For information call 956-681-3333. Boat Ride/River Tour, 12:00 PM, Riverside Club, 214 E. Chimney Rd., Mission. For information call 956-581-1033. Diabetes Management Class, 01:00 PM, 3rd Floor, McAllen Medical Center East Classroom. Classes are provided in English and Spanish every other week. For more information, please call Mary Escaname at 956-971-5850. Winter Haven Resort Chess Club, 01:00 PM, Winter Haven Resort, 3501 Old Port Isabel Rd., Brownsville. 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm chess training and then play from 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm. The members range from beginners to experienced players. The club meets in A-2 of the clubhouse. Please call to let us know you are coming so that we can leave word at the gate. 956-521-8635. Country Music Jam, 01:00 PM, J-5 RV Park, 3907 N. Taylor Rd., Mission. Host: Marion Price, Coffee & cookies served. For information call 956-682-7495. Jam, 01:00 PM, Paradise Park, Inc., 100 E. Hackberry Ave., McAllen. Lunch available 11:00 am - 1:00 pm.

For information call 956-682-8081. Jam Session, 01:00 PM, Lakewood RV Resort, 4525 Graham Rd., Harlingen. For information call 956-423-1170. Jam Session, 01:00 PM, Roadrunner RV Park, 1222 N. Cesar Chavez Rd., Alamo. Lunch served at 11:30 a.m., for information call 712-259-2222. Jam w/Ray & Gynger, 01:00 PM, Oleander Acres RV Resort, 2421 S. Conway Ave., Mission. Oleander’s Famous Cake served at half time!! For information call 262-497-4241 Bluegrass Jam Session, 01:30 PM, Kenwood RV Resort, 1201 N. Main St., La Feria. For information call 956-797-1875. Country Music Jam, 02:00 PM, Casa del Valle, 1048 N. Alamo Rd., Alamo. For information call 956-783-5008. Winter Wonder Wetlands - Micro-mania, 02:30 PM, Edinburg WBC, 714 Raul Longoria Rd., Edinburg. School is out and you and your family are looking for something to do, so why not head over to the EWBC for some amazing family fun! The EWBC education staff has three days of hands-on family activities designed to engage, inspire and entertain the whole family! Observe wintry objects under a microscope and

JAM SESSIONS

MEALS

SALES

marvel at their tiny patterns. Regular Post 101, 417 S. Cage Blvd., Pharr. Admission. EWBC Members Free. 3 Taco Plate - $6.50, Taco Salad Please call ahead to register. For more $7.50, Chalupa - $2.50 each, Extra information contact us at (956) 381- Taco - $2.50, Extra Sour Cream - $.50, 9922 or visit our website at www. for information call 956-787-7451. EdinburgWBC.org Live entertainment w/Jim Staton. Happy Hour w/Lynn Dvorak, 03:00 Country Jam, 06:00 PM, Canyon Lake RV PM, Snow to Sun RV Resort, 1701 Resort, 4770 N. Mayberry Rd., Mission. N. International Blvd., Weslaco. Pass For information call 956-580-4545. the Hat. BYOB. Wine and beer sold Dance w/Louis Gomez, 07:00 PM, at bar. Free ice. For information call Victoria Palms RV Resort, 602 N. 620-441-1173. Victoria Rd., Donna. $5.00 pp. Country Jam Dinner, 04:00 PM, Concessions available. BYOB. Call for Canyon Lake RV Resort, 4770 information 956-782-3263. N. Mayberry Rd., Mission. For Square Dance, 07:00 PM, Tropic Star information call 956-580-4545. RV Resort, 1401 South Cage Blvd., Jam Dinner, 04:00 PM, Enchanted Pharr. Doors open @ 6:15, for more Valley Ranch, 7300 Monroe St., information call 956-283-7581 Mission. Variable choices each week Karaoke, 07:00 PM, American Legion such as sandwiches, hamburgers, hot Post 101, 417 S. Cage Blvd., Pharr. dogs, soups etc. For information call 956-519-8597. WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2015 Lasagna Dinner, 05:00 PM, American Legion Post 37, 1305 E. Jasmine Bird & Nature Walk, 08:30 AM, McAllen Ave, McAllen. For information call Nature Center, 4101 W. Business 83, 956-682-7841. McAllen. Join Tiffany Kersten for a 1/2 Country Jam, 05:30 PM, Enchanted mile walk to explore birds, butterflies, Valley Ranch, 7300 Monroe St., plants, and whatever else happens Mission. For information call to cross our path! Bring binoculars if 956-519-8597. you have them. Loaner binoculars are Taco Nite, 05:30 PM, American Legion available free of charge. Admission and SCHEDULE OF EVENTS CONTINUED ON PAGE 14 >>

December 23, 2015 • • • Welcome

Home WINTER TEXAN • • • your official connection to the rio grande valley

DANCE ENTERTAINMENT & SHOWS SCHEDULE OF EVENTS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 13 public programs are provided free of pm or 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm, Before charge. A donation box is available. All Care from 8:00 am to 9:00 am, After donations are used to purchase native Care from 4:00 pm to 5:30 pm *Only plants for the park. For information call 25 seats available per sessions. 956-681-3333. Bluegrass Jam, 09:00 AM, Bentsen Volunteer Mornings, 08:30 AM, Quinta Palm RV Park, 3501 N. Bentsen Palm Mazatlan, 600 Sunset Dr., McAllen. Dr., Mission. Home made goodies and Join our volunteer coordinator for a coffee served. For information call fun morning of work and learning in 218-525-5807. our native gardens! Students, earn Winter Texan Orchestra, 09:00 AM, your service hours at Quinta Mazatlan! Tip O’Texas RV Resort, E. Sioux Rd., We are also a site certified for Texas Pharr. If you play a musical instrument Master Naturalist hours. found in a Symphony Orchestra you are Yoga Class, 09:00 AM, Sleepy Valley invited to consider the Winter Texan Resort, 2301 N. Abram Rd., Mission. Orchestra. We rehearse on Wednesday Come enjoy the call and peace. Yoga mornings from 9:00 am to 11:00 am. is a good way to get the peace and Percussion and strings are especially relaxation you are looking for. For needed but all are welcome. We information call 956-581-1871. welcome local musicians to join us for Operation Imagination Holiday Camp, the season. Bob Seymour, Conductor 09:00 AM, International Museum of at 317-626-6512 or 956-607-2696 Art & Science, 1900 W. Nolana Ave., or visit a rehearsal. McAllen. Just for kids in grades Pre-K- Project Insight Support Group, 10:00 8, Each half-day program includes a AM, McAllen Public Library (Classroom hands-on science activity, a hands- 2), McAllen. This is an ongoing, weekly on art activity, a Science on a Sphere support group for survivors, caregivers presentation or an Animal Talk plus and anyone else dealing with cancer. exploration time in the museum. Call http://project-insight.org/ 956-682-0123 to register. Full Day Power Walk, 10:00 AM, Sleepy Valley sessions are from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm, Resort, 2301 N. Abram Rd., Mission. please bring a brown bag lunch. Half Come have a great time walking. Day sessions from 9:00 am to 12:00 Indoors in the Clubhouse. Walk for

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fun, to take the pounds off, enjoy the fellowship of others. For information call 956-581-1871. Line Dancing w/JoAnn, 10:00 AM, Winter Ranch RV Resort, 600 State Hwy 495, Alamo. $3.00 pp. Beginners at 10:00 am, Intermediate at 10:30 am. For information call 956-783-4587. Quinta Mazatlan Garden Walk, 10:00 AM, Quinta Mazatlan, 600 Sunset, McAllen. Drop in to Chat and walk with a garden expert. Novice and advanced gardeners will enjoy the themed garden walks with interesting stories about plants and gardens. Each month the topic will change based on the season in the valley! $3.00 Adults, $2.00 Seniors, For information call 956-681-3370. Country Two Step, Waltz & Swing w/Judy, 11:15 AM, Winter Ranch RV Park, 600 State Hwy 495, Alamo. $6.00 per Couple, basic footwork at 11:15, turns and moves at 11:45. For information call 956-783-4587. Boat Ride/River Tour, 12:00 PM, Riverside Club, 214 E. Chimney Rd., Mission. For information call 956-581-1033. Line Dance, 12:30 PM, Casa del Valle, 1048 N. Alamo Rd., Alamo. For information call 956-783-5008. Jam Session, 12:30 PM, Sunshine RV Resort, 1900 Grace Ave., Harlingen. For information call 956-425-7448. Music Jam, 12:30 PM, Paradise Resort Estates, 301 E. Hall Acres Rd., Pharr. Free admission. Lunch served at 11:30. All musicians welcome. For information call 956-787-1521. RC Racing, 01:00 PM, Penitas RV Park, 304 19th St., Penitas. 1/10 scale electric stadium trucks and Corr 2w/d. Beginners and spectators welcome! No dues or fees, for information call 956-585-2284. Line Dance, 01:00 PM, Lakewood RV Resort, 4525 Graham Rd., Harlingen. For information call 965-428-7116. Round Dance, 01:00 PM, Lakewood RV Resort, 4525 Graham Rd., Harlingen. For information call 956-423-1170. Jam, 01:00 PM, Eastgate MH & RV Park, 2801 E. Harrison Ave., Harlingen. For information call 956-423-3137. Music Jam, 01:00 PM, Alamo Paradise Acres, 1513 W Crockett Ave., Alamo. $1.00 pp. Coffee and Lunch available. For information call 956-283-1771. ZUMBA Class, 02:00 PM, Sleepy Valley Resort, 2301 N. Abram Rd., Mission. FREE Admission. Enjoy a ZUMBA class with certified instructors, Pierre and Sylvie. For information call 956-581-1871. Overeaters Anonymous Serenity Group, 02:00 PM, Harlingen Library, 410 76th Dr., Harlingen. Are you tired of the Yo-Yo of diets? No dues, fees or weigh-ins, we welcome all who desire to stop eating compulsively. 419-651-2901 or 956-202-5281. Acoustical Jam, 02:00 PM, Park

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Place Estates, 5401 W. Business 83, Harlingen. Free Admission, refreshments available. Musicians by invitation, open to the public. For information call 956-412-0375. Winter Wonder Wetlands - Furry Friends, 02:30 PM, Edinburg WBC, 714 Raul Longoria Rd., Edinburg. School is out and you and your family are looking for something to do, so why not head over to the EWBC for some amazing family fun! The EWBC education staff has three days of hands-on family activities designed to engage, inspire and entertain the whole family! Enjoy a mammal show and tell and discover their winter habits. Regular Admission, EWBC Members Free. Please call ahead to register. For more information contact us at (956) 381-9922 or visit our website at www.EdinburgWBC.org Beginning Round/Trail Dance, 03:00 PM, Casa del Valle, 1048 N. Alamo Rd., Alamo. For information call 956-783-5008. Happy Hour w/Brenda Cohn, 03:00 PM, Snow to Sun RV Resort, 1701 N. International Blvd., Weslaco. Pass the Hat. BYOB. Wine and beer sold at bar. Free ice. For information call 620-441-1173. Happy Hour, 03:30 PM, Paradise South RV Resort, 9099 N. Mile 2 West Rd., Mercedes. Pass the Hat. BYOB, Hamburgers and hot dogs may be purchased. For information call 956-825-9509. Maxan Street Farmers’ Market, 04:00 PM, The Garden, Port Isabel. Every Wednesday from 4-6 pm in The Garden on Maxan Street in Port Isabel’s Lighthouse Square. Additional parking at Pirate’s Landing for Farmers’ Market customers. For more information and vendor opportunities, call 956-433-9675. Biscuits & Gravy Dinner, 04:30 PM, Big Valley Trailer Park, 109 E. Business Highway 83, Donna. For information call 989-424-1299. Hamburger Night, 05:00 PM, Pleasant Valley Resort, 7320 Expressway 83, Mission. $5.00 pp, Hamburger, Chicken sandwich or 1/4 lb Hot Dog including chips, drink and dessert. *Karaoke Follows* For information call 956-580-8454. Taco’s & Chalupas, 05:00 PM, American Legion Post 37, 1305 E. Jasmine Ave., McAllen. For information call 956-682-7841. Entertainment w/Jack & Jackie, 05:30 PM, American Legion Post 37, 1305 E. Jasmine Ave., McAllen. For information call 956-682-7841. Spaghetti Nite, 05:30 PM, American Legion Post 101, 417 S. Cage Blvd., Pharr. Spaghetti & Side Garlic Bread - $7.00, Extra Garlic Bread - $.50, Music by Robert & Joe. For information call 956-787-7451.

www.welcomehomergv.com • • • December 23, 2015

DANCE ENTERTAINMENT & SHOWS Line Dance Lessons, 06:00 PM, Fun-N-Sun RV Resort, 1400 Zillock Rd., San Benito. $2.00 pp. For information call 269-838-9519. Country/Gospel Jam, 06:00 PM, Siesta Village, 2712 S. International Blvd., Weslaco. Musicians and listeners welcome. For information, call Gene, 956-447-9906. Karaoke, 06:30 PM, Paradise Resort Estates, 301 E. Hall Acres Rd., Pharr. Free admission, doors open at 6:15 pm, snack bar open. For information call 956-787-1521. UTRGV Women’s Basketball vs. Evangel University, 07:00 PM, UTRGV Fieldhouse, 1201 W. University Dr., Edinburg. Dance w/Bottomline Band, 07:00 PM, Tip O’Texas RV Resort, 101 E. Sioux Rd., Pharr. $5.00 pp. For information call 956-787-6461. Dance w/Dixon & Company, 07:00 PM, Mission West RV Park, 511 E. Loop 374, Palmview. $6.00 pp, free popcorn, concession available. For information call 956-585-5551. Dance w/The Jets, 07:00 PM, Sunshine RV Resort, 1900 Grace Ave., Harlingen. $4.00 pp, for information call 956-425-7448. Square & Round Dance, 07:00 PM, Lakewood RV Resort, 4525 Graham Rd., Harlingen. For information call 956-423-1170. 2 Step & Waltz Lessons, 07:30 PM, Fun-N-Sun RV Resort, 1400 Zillock Rd., San Benito $2.00 pp. Must have a partner. For information call 269-838-9519.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2015 New Year’s Eve Family Bash: Mess Fest, 09:00 AM, International Museum of Art & Science, 1900 W. Nolana Ave., McAllen. IMAS is hosting its first annual New Year’s Eve Family Bash with a MESS Fest! Join us for a truly messy way to ring the New Year! Get your hands dirty as you try out slimy, oozy, explosive art and science activities for the whole family! Are you ready to get your hands on globs of firework ooze and dig into a pool of oozy slime for a treasure hunt? Try your hand at unconventional art techniques to create explosive artwork or paint a masterpiece with spaghetti. Discover how to make toothpaste for an elephant with an erupting fountain of foam. All ages are welcome – there’S. something for everyone! Warning: You WILL get messy! *For more information, please contact IMAS at (956) 6820123, visit www.imasonline.org, or visit the IMAS front desk. Bible Study, 10:00 AM, Tropic Winds RV Resort, 1501 N. Loop 499, Harlingen. For information call 956-423-5484. Power Walk, 10:00 AM, Sleepy Valley Resort, 2301 N. Abram Rd., Mission. Come have a great time walking.

Indoors in the Clubhouse. Walk for fun, to take the pounds off, enjoy the fellowship of others. For information call 956-581-1871. FREE Zumba Classes, 10:00 AM, South Padre Island KOA, 1 Padre Blvd., South Padre Island. For information call 956-761-5665. Pharrmers Market, 10:00 AM, The Food Bank of the RGV, 724 N. Cage Blvd., Pharr. Excluding Holidays and rainy days. We will have a great variety of healthy food options, arts & crafts, and personal care items. For information call 956-904-4541. Ballroom Dance, 10:00 AM, Casa del Valle, 1048 N. Alamo Rd., Alamo For information call 956-783-5008. Country Dance Lessons, 10:00 AM, Mission West RV Park, 511 East Loop 374, Palmview. $6.00/person, couples may start at any time. Square Dance w/Dorty Plus Dance, 10:00 AM, Tip O’Texas RV Resort, 101 E. Sioux Rd., Pharr. For information call Randy Dougherty 602-617-1841. Bird Walk, 10:00 AM, Edinburg WBC, 714 Raul Longoria Rd., Edinburg. Join the EWBC Naturalist for weekly Bird Walks. No level of experience is required. Come and see what’S. been showing up at the Wetlands throughout the week! For information call 956-381-9922. Water Aerobics, 11:00 AM, Sleepy Valley Resort, 2301 N. Abram Rd., Mission. Come join us for a great time. Great way to relax, exercise and meet people. For information call 956-581-1871. Pancake Breakfast, 11:00 AM, The Grove Park, 612 E. Business 83, San Juan. Welcome back Winter Texans. Come out and enjoy your choice of pancakes, eggs, sausages, waffles and all the coffee you can drink. The best pancakes in the valley! Native Plant Tour, 11:00 AM, McAllen Nature Center, 4101 W. Business 83, McAllen. Join a staff naturalist for a walk on the trails and through the native plant gardens, exploring the benefits of native plants. The walk will be tailored to the participants’ interests in edible plants, backyard gardening, wildscaping, and more. Native plants are adapted to our climate, soil ecology, and seasons of drought! Native plants are also much more beneficial to our wildlife, including many being host plants (food) for caterpillars of the butterflies that many of us enjoy. Native plants provide beneficial food and cover to many species of birds as well. McAllen Nature Center admission and programs are free. For information call 956-681-3333. Boat Ride/River Tour, 12:00 PM, Riverside Club, 214 E. Chimney Rd., Mission. For information call 956-581-1033. Country Jam and Lunch, 12:00 PM, Ranchero Village, 1900 S. Bridge

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Ave., Weslaco. Pizza lunch served at three days of hands-on family activities 12:00 PM. Music 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm. designed to engage, inspire and Coffee and donuts served at break, for entertain the whole family! Observe information call 306-921-5199. wintry objects under a microscope and New Year’s Eve Pre-Party, 12:00 PM, marvel at their tiny patterns. Bring American Legion Post 37, 1305 your creativity and make a wreath from E. Jasmine Ave., McAllen. Potluck seeds, leaves, and petals. Regular Starting at Noon and Jack Kay from Admission, EWBC Members Free. 1:00 pm - 5:00 pm. For information Please call ahead to register. For more call 956-682-7841 information contact us at (956) 381Country Western Jam, 12:30 PM, 9922 or visit our website at www. Bentsen Grove Resort, 810 Bentsen EdinburgWBC.org Palm Dr., Mission. For information call Square Dance, 03:00 PM, Lakewood RV 956-585-0703. Resort, 4525 Graham Rd., Harlingen. Dance Lessons, 01:00 PM, Pine To For information call 956-423-1170. Palm Resort Park, 802 S. International Happy Hour w/Andy & Brenda Coin, Blvd., Weslaco. $6.00/person. Couples 03:00 PM, Snow to Sun RV Resort, may start at any time. For information 1701 N. International Blvd., Weslaco. call 956-968-5760. Pass the Hat, BYOB. Wine and beer Square Dance w/Dorty C2 Review/ sold at bar. Free ice. For information Workshop, 01:30 PM, Tip O’Texas call 620-441-1173. RV Resort, 101 E. Sioux Rd., Pharr. Can/Am Dance, 03:30 PM, Sunshine For information call Randy Dougherty RV Resort, Grace Ave., Harlingen. For 602-617-1841. information call 956-425-7448. Winter Wonder Wetlands - Crafty Plants, Thursday Night Dinner, 04:00 PM, 02:30 PM, Edinburg WBC, 714 Raul Eldorado Acres RV Park, 610 N. FM Longoria Rd., Edinburg. School is out 492, Mission. For information call and you and your family are looking for 956-581-6718. something to do, so why not head over Pancake Dinner, 04:30 PM, Lemon to the EWBC for some amazing family Tree RV Inn, 1740 E. Business 83, fun! The EWBC education staff has Mission. BYOTS, For information call SCHEDULE OF EVENTS CONTINUED ON PAGE 16 >>

December 23, 2015 • • • Welcome

Home WINTER TEXAN • • • your official connection to the rio grande valley

DANCE ENTERTAINMENT & SHOWS SCHEDULE OF EVENTS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 15 262-395-3509. Olmo Maldonado, olmo@codergv.com, Soup Supper, 04:30 PM, Bit-O-Heaven RV 650-450-8193. & Mobile Home, 1051 W. Business 83, Valley Transplant Support Group @ Donna. $2.00 pp all you can eat, bring McAllen Medical Center, 06:30 PM, 4th your own table service, dessert for sale. Floor, HBO Waiting Room, McAllen For information call 956-464-5191. Medical Center, 301 W. Expressway Loaded Tators, 05:00 PM, American 83 McAllen. The Valley Transplant Legion Post 37, 1305 E. Jasmine Support Group’s goal is to educate and Ave., McAllen. For information call help patients have an understanding of 956-682-7841. the challenges that may arise before Jam, 05:30 PM, Restful Valley Ranch, and after transplantation and the 7130 W. Expressway 83, Mission. For resources available to assist them. information call 616-204-8067. The group focuses on the emotional Meat Draw Nite, 05:30 PM, American aspects of kidney transplant by offering Legion Post 101, 417 S. Cage Blvd., information, education and a chance Pharr. Reg. Chicken Wings - $5.00, for pre- and post-op patients to meet Spicy Wings - $5.00, Fried Hot Dog - and learn from each other. For more $3.00, all orders come with fries or information, please contact Monica onion rings. Karaoke from 7:00-11:00 Sanchez-Lucio at 956-971-5726 or PM, for information call 956-787-7451. monica.sanchez-lucio@uhsrgv.com. Code#RGV, 06:00 PM, IMAS, 1900 Big Band Jam, 06:30 PM, La Hacienda W. Nolana Ave., McAllen. Work on, Estates, 1018 El Paseo Dr., Alamo. or start, a project with fellow coders Located 1 mile south of Business and enjoy music, food, and drinks. 83 on Tower Rd., coffee and cookies Mission. Code#RGV is a community available for a donation, soda & ice run event that promotes collaboration, cream for sale. For information call innovation, and education of software 956-683-5160. programming and startups in the New Year’s Eve Dance, 07:00 PM, Rio Grande Valley. This is part of W & I Resort, 206 S. Stewart Rd., an ongoing effort to grow out start- Mission. $5.00 pp. For information up community and invigorate our call 956-585-6594. economy. For information contact, New Year’s Eve Dance w/DJ Rock &

JAM SESSIONS Roll, 07:00 PM, Alamo Paradise Acres, 1513 W. Crockett Ave., Alamo. Donations. 50’s-80’s. For information call 956-283-1771. New Year’s Eve Dance w/Jack Kay, 07:00 PM, Casa Del Sol MH/RV Park, 400 N. Val Verde Rd., Donna. $10.00 pp. For information call 956-464-9024. New Year’s Eve Dance w/Jealous Heart, 07:00 PM, Tropic Star RV Resort, 1401 S. Cage Blvd., Pharr. Doors open at 6:15 PM. For information call 956-787-5773. New Year’s Eve Dance w/Los Mizmoz, 07:00 PM, Mission West RV Park, 511 E. Loop 374, Palmview. $10.00/ person. Concessions available. For information call 956-585-5551. New Year’s Eve Dance w/Memory Makers, 07:00 PM, Green Gate Grove, 700 N. Bentsen Palm Dr., Mission. $TBA. For information call 319-795-8101. New Year’s Eve Dance w/Southern Knights, 07:00 PM, Paradise Resort Estates, 301 E. Hall Acres Rd., Pharr. $10.00 pp. Doors open at 6:15 pm, snack bar open. For information call 956-787-1521. New Year’s Eve Dance w/SweetWater, 07:00 PM, Texas Trails RV Resort, 501 W. Owassa Rd., Pharr. $13.00 pp, tickets on sale now, party favors,

RV Parks & Resorts in Alamo Acacia RV & MH Park Alamo Country Club Alamo Palms Mobile Home & RV Park Alamo Paradise Acres Alamo Rec Veh Park Alamo Rose Mobile Home & RV Resort Bibleville Conference Grounds

Casa Del Valle RV Resort Gentle Breeze La Hacienda Estates Pleasant Valley Trailer Park Roadrunner RV Resort Trophy Gardens RV Resort Winter Ranch RV Resort

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breakfast at 10:00 pm. Buy tickets now to reserve a table of your choice. For information call 956-787-6538. New Year’s Eve Dance w/Texas Country Band, 07:00 PM, Mission Bell RV Resort, 1711 E. Bus 83, Mission. For information call 956-585-4833. New Year’s Eve Dance w/Wildside, 07:00 PM, Citrus Valley RV Park, 2901 W. State Highway 107, McAllen. $10.00 per couple. For information call 970-222-6031. New Year’s Eve Dance w/Willie Knight, 07:00 PM, Lemon Tree RV Inn, 1740 E. Business 83, Mission. $8.00 pp. For information call 262-395-3509 New Year’s Eve Dance w/Roger Kenaston Band, 07:00 PM, Casa del Valle, 1048 N. Alamo Rd., Alamo. $15.00 pp, For information call 956-783-5008. New Year’s Eve Dance w/Bushriders, 07:30 PM, Eastgate MH & RV Park, 2801 E. Harrison Ave., Harlingen. $35.00/Couple. Reservations Required. BYOB, Popcorn & Ice provided. For more information call 815-494-5159. New Year’s Eve Dance w/Bill Chrastil, 08:00 PM, Southern Comfort RV Resort, 1501 S. Airport Dr., Weslaco. $18.00 pp, includes light snack. For information call 956-638-3158.

www.welcomehomergv.com • • • December 23, 2015

DANCE ENTERTAINMENT & SHOWS New Year’s Eve Dance w/Bob Dolle, Fred King & Friends, 08:00 PM, Paradise Park, Inc., 100 E. Hackberry Ave., McAllen. $12.00 pp. For information call 956-628-8081. New Year’s Eve Dance w/Bottomline Band & Scott Randolph, 08:00 PM, Tip O’Texas RV Resort, 101 E. Sioux Rd., Pharr. $15 pp. Reserved seats, food included. BYOB. Concession stand available. For information call 956-787-9959. New Year’s Eve Dance w/Country Roland Jr., 08:00 PM, Winter Ranch RV Resort, 600 Hwy 495, Alamo. $12.00 pp, BYOB/Concession Open, Free popcorn, Multitude of Door Prizes, Advanced ticket sales for Reserved Seating begin December 1st. For information call 956-783-4587. New Year’s Eve Dance w/Diego, 08:00 PM, Ranchero Village MH Park, 1900 S. Bridge Ave., Weslaco. $15.00 pp. Advanced tickets required. BYOB. Ice mix and popcorn available. For information call 956-351-5856. New Year’s Eve Dance w/Dixon & Company, 08:00 PM, Palm Shadows RV Park, 200 N. Val Verde Rd., Donna. $10.00 pp. For information call 956-464-3326. New Year’s Eve Dance w/Doug Borman,

08:00 PM, Lakewood RV Resort, 4525 Graham Rd., Harlingen. $7.00 pp. For information call 956-428-7116. New Year’s Eve Dance w/Doug Perser, 08:00 PM, Eldorado Acres RV Park, 610 N. FM 492, Mission. $7.50 pp. BYOB & Snacks for tables. For information call 956-581-6718. New Year’s Eve Dance w/Ed-Vern Black, 08:00 PM, Twin Lakes RV Park, 301 N. Shary Rd., Mission. For information call 956-585-9982. New Year’s Eve Dance w/Golden Era, 08:00 PM, Restful Valley Ranch, 7130 W. Expressway 83, Mission. $7.00 pp, For information call 616-204-8067. New Year’s Eve Dance w/Highway 100 Band, 08:00 PM, Tropic Winds RV Resort, 1501 N. Loop 499, Harlingen. For information call 956-423-4020. New Year’s Eve Dance w/J&J Music, 08:00 PM, Dixieland Mobile Home & RV Pk, 1325 Dixieland Rd., Harlingen. $6/person. For information call 956425-6707. New Year’s Eve Dance w/Jerry Porter Roewe, 08:00 PM, Leisure World, 400 E. 18th St., Weslaco. $12.00 pp Advance tickets will be on sale. For information call 956-447-3821. New Year’s Eve Dance w/Jim King Texas Connection, 08:00 PM, Bentsen Palm

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RV Park, 3501 N. Bentsen Palm Dr., information call 956-638-3158. Mission. $12.50 pp. $25.00 per New Year’s Eve Dance w/Pelican West, couple. BYOB, ice & soda available. 08:00 PM, Victoria Palms RV Resort, For information call 956-585-5807. 602 N. Victoria Rd., Donna. $19.00 New Year’s Eve Dance w/Johnny Cash pp, Magic show, photo booth, snacks (Paul Evans), 08:00 PM, Chimney provided, concessions available, BYOB. Park RV Resort, 4224 S. Conway, For information call 956-782-3263. Mission. Music & entertainment by New Year’s Eve Dance w/Pure Country, ‘Johnny Cash’ (Paul Evans). Call to 08:00 PM, Hidden Valley Ranch, 7600 reserve your ticket $12/person! Call Long Dr., Mission. $10.00 pp. Doors Linda, 956-585-5061. open one hour prior to dance. BYOB. New Year’s Eve Dance w/Keys & Strings Soda, ice and popcorn available. For & Harmony, 08:00 PM, Park Place information call 956-580-4477 Estates Resort, 5401 W. Business 83, New Year’s Eve Dance w/Riptones, 08:00 Harlingen. $12.00 pp, variety trio, PM, Winter Green Estates, 500 N. piano, guitar & vocals. For information Bryan Rd., Mission. $10.00 pp. BYOB. call 956-412-0375. For information call 989-708-0921. New Year’s Eve Dance w/Lynn Dvorak, New Year’s Eve Dance w/Ron & Chester 08:00 PM, Palm Gardens RV Park, Band, 08:00 PM, Fiesta Village RV 3401 U.S. 83 Business, Harlingen. For Park, 205 S. Stewart Rd., Mission. more information call 402-640-4739. $10.00 pp. BYOB & Snacks. Cake & New Year’s Eve Dance w/Mario Rosales, Coffee @ 10:00 pm. For information 08:00 PM, Leisure Valley Ranch, 1920 call 956-585-9264. E. Bogey Dr., Mission. $12.00 pp, New Year’s Eve Dance w/Smoking Gun tickets go on sale prior to the dance at Band, 08:00 PM, Siesta Village, the LVR office 10:00 am - Noon daily. 2712 S. International Blvd., Weslaco. For information call 956-566-4883. Theme: Denim & Diamonds. Popcorn, New Year’s Eve Dance w/MC Express, peanuts and ice provided; soft drinks 08:00 PM, Country Sunshine RV available. Reserved seating with paid Resort, 1601 S. Airport Dr., Weslaco. admission. For tickets and information, $12.00 pp. Breakfast included, for call Jim, 740-360-7647. SCHEDULE OF EVENTS CONTINUED ON PAGE 18 >>

December 23, 2015 • • • Welcome

Home WINTER TEXAN • • • your official connection to the rio grande valley

DANCE ENTERTAINMENT & SHOWS SCHEDULE OF EVENTS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 17 New Year’s Eve Dance w/Susan Stone & is Rock & Roll New Year’s Eve dance Dan White, 08:00 PM, Paradise South w/late lunch. Tickets sales begin RV Resort, 9099 N. Mile 2 West Rd., December 10th. For information call Mercedes. $6.00 pp. For information 956-585-0703. call 956-825-9509. New Year’s Eve Dance w/Jeff Gordon, New Year’s Eve Dance w/Swing Street 08:30 PM, Enchanted Valley Ranch, Big Band, 08:00 PM, Fun-N.-Sun RV 7300 Monroe St., Mission. BYOB & Resort, 1400 Zillock Rd., San Benito. Snacks, soda and water for sale. For $15.00 pp, $20.00 pp at the door. For information call 956-519-8597. information call 956-357-3320. New Year’s Eve Dance w/Randy Web, New Year’s Eve Dance w/The Castaway, 08:30 PM, El Valle Del Sol/Luna, 2500 08:00 PM, Orange Grove RV Park, E. Business 83, Mission. $12.50 pp. 4901 E. State Highway 107, Edinburg. For information call 956-585-5704. $12.50 pp. BYOB and bring your New Year’s Eve Dance w/Adam Pope Band, own snacks, ice will be provided. For 09:00 PM, Canyon Lake RV Resort, information call 956-383-7931. 4770 N. Mayberry Rd., Mission. For New Year’s Eve Dance w/Tony Perez information call 956-580-7654. Band, 08:00 PM, Bit-O-Heaven RV & New Year’s Eve Dance w/Andy & Brenda MH Park, 1051 W. Business Hwy 83, Coin, 09:00 PM, Snow to Sun RV Donna. $14.00 pp, BYOB, Popcorn Resort, 1701 N. International Blvd., & Soda for sale. For information call Weslaco. $12.50 pp. BYOB. Wine 956-464-5191. and beer sold at bar. Free ice. For New Years Eve Dance w/Solid Gold Dance, information call 956-756-4958. 08:00 PM, Pine To Palm Resort Park, New Year’s Eve Dance w/JC Harrisson, 802 S. International Blvd., Weslaco. 09:00 PM, Pleasant Valley Resort, $10.00 pp. BYOB. Door Prizes. 7320 W Expressway 83, Mission. For Donations for ice and Popcorn. Soda information call 956-580-2940. available. Snacks at 10:30 pm. For information contact dson224@mts.net SATURDAY, JANUARY 2, 2016 New Year’s Eve Dance, 08:30 PM, Bentsen Palm Resort, 810 Bentsen Acres Big Breakfast, 07:00 AM, Palm Dr., Mission. $15.00 pp. Class Eldorado Acres RV Park, 610 N. FM

JAM SESSIONS 492, Mission Pancakes $2.50, Eggs, Hash browns, Toast $2.50, Meat $1.00 more, Biscuits & Gravy $2.50 and up. Hash browns, sausage and ham available. Free Coffee with meals. Bring your own table service. For information call 956-581-6718. Breakfast, 07:00 AM, Restful Valley Ranch, 7130 W. Expressway 83, Mission. $3.00 pp. Menu rotates. For information call 616-204-8067. Saturday Morning Breakfast, 07:00 AM, Chimney Park RV Resort, 4224 S. Conway, Mission. $4.00 pp. For information call 956-585-5061. Breakfast, 07:30 AM, Paradise Resort Estates, 301 E. Hall Acres Rd., Pharr. Check website for weekly menu. pharrparadisepark.sharepoint.com, cost varies with menu. For information call 361-230-4383. Breakfast, 07:30 AM, Alamo Rec Veh Park, 1320 W Frontage Rd., Alamo. For information call 956-783-5440. Pancake Breakfast, 07:30 AM, Sunshine RV Resort, 1900 Grace Ave., Harlingen. For information call 956-425-7448. Saturday Breakfast, 07:30 AM, Paradise Park, Inc., 100 E. Hackberry Ave., McAllen. Serving: Pancakes, sausage or ham, applesauce or grits, biscuits and gravy, eggs and toast are also available. Donations. For information call 96-682-8081. Saturday Breakfast, 07:30 AM, Pleasant Valley Resort, 7320 Expressway 83, Mission. $3.50 pp. Sausage patty, scrambled eggs, fruit cup. Plus, “All you can eat French Toast & Pancakes” For information call 956-560-8454. Saturday Morning Breakfast, 07:30 AM, El Valle Del Sol/Luna, 2500 E. Business 83, Mission. All you can eat pancakes. Choice of ham or sausage. Biscuits and Gravy. Free Coffee. Please bring your own table service. For information call 956-585-5704. Songbird Stroll, 08:00 AM, Quinta Mazatlan, 600 Sunset, McAllen. Join an expert birder on a one hour bird walk for all skill levels! Over 200 species have been seen in the park since 2006! No experience Necessary, and loaner binoculars are available. Note: Large groups, please call in advance. $3 adults, $2 students & seniors. For information call 956-681-3370. Tai Chi in the Park, 08:00 AM, McAllen Nature Center, 4101 W. Business 83, McAllen. This FREE program by instructor Sophie Wang! You are invited to participate in an hour of Tai Chi and meditation. Tai Chi has positive effects on balance control, fitness and flexibility. Elderly and people with disabilities can also work within their limits. Wear comfortable clothing and flexible shoes, and bring water. Please be prompt. This program is provided free of charge. For information call

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956-681-3333. Craft Sale & Flea Market, 08:00 AM, Snow to Sun RV Resort, 1701 N. International Blvd., Weslaco. Contact information and to reserve a table contact Lynn at 956-532-5856. Craft Show, 08:00 AM, Park Place Estates, 5401 W. Business 83, Harlingen. Breakfast at 8:00 am, for information call 956-412-0375. Patio Sale, 08:00 AM, Palm Shadows RV Park, 200 N. Val Verde Rd., Donna. For information call 956-464-3326. Biscuits and Gravy, 08:30 AM, Roadrunner RV Park, 1222 N. Cesar Chavez Rd., Alamo. For information call 712-259-2222. Bird Walks @ Resaca de la Palma, 08:30 AM, Resaca de la Palma, 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. Growing Growers Farmers Market, 09:00 AM, Firemen Park, 201 N. First St., McAllen. Year Round Farmers Market with all local vegetables, fruits, herbs, 100% Certified Grass-fed Beef, Gulf Caught Shrimp, Artisan Goat Milk Cheese, Eggs, Honey, Jams, Jellies, and Fresh Baked Goods, including baked items for those on special diets. Located under a protected pavillion, with restrooms and kitchen for demonstrations. For information call 956-330-6410. Santa Ana Nature Walk, 09:00 AM, Santa Ana National Wildlife Refuge, Alamo. $3.00 pp. Every Saturday, a volunteer led nature walk through the trails at Santa Ana National Wildlife Refuge. Directions: The refuge and visitor center are 7 miles south of Alamo TX on FM 907 about 1/4 mile east on Hwy 281. 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. Living History, 10:00 AM, Palo Alto Battlefield National Historical Park, 7200 Paredes Line Rd., Brownsville. FREE Admission, See demonstrations of U.S..-Mexican War era weapons, tactics, and soldier life. Program features live musket and artillery

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DANCE ENTERTAINMENT & SHOWS demonstrations. Program is dependent upon weather. For information call 956-511-2785. Senior Saturdays, 10:00 AM, International Museum of Art & Science, 1900 W. Nolana Ave., McAllen. $5 General Admission. Includes: FREE Coffee. FREE IMAS Guided Tour *Closed on major holidays and special occasions. For information call 956-682-0123. Square Dance w/Dorty Plus Dance, 10:00 AM, Tip O’Texas RV Resort, 101 E. Sioux Rd., Pharr. For information call Randy Dougherty 602-617-1841. The Market @ McAllen, 10:00 AM, McAllen Public Library Every Saturday the community will now have access to local farmers, ranchers, chefs, and artisans each contributing to the healthy life style changes our community desperately needs. Country Jam Lunch, 11:00 AM, Winter Ranch RV Resort, 600 St. Hwy 495, Alamo. For information call 956-783-4587. History of the McAllen Nature Center, 11:00 AM, McAllen Nature Center, 4101 W. Business 83, McAllen. Join local historian and nature enthusiast Geoff Alger for a walk back in time, to the 1960s and 1970s. Do you remember the sunken garden or the lake? We’ll take a leisurely walk around the property, reminiscing about the history of the site. The tour will include a chance to descend the stairs to where the sunken garden used to be (this area of the park is currently closed to the public). This program is free of charge. A donation box is available. All donations are used to purchase native plants for the site. Boat Ride/River Tour, 12:00 PM, Riverside Club, 214 E. Chimney Rd., Mission. For information call 956-581-1033. Country Jam, 12:00 PM, Winter Ranch RV Resort, 600 Hwy 495, Alamo Join us for lunch at 11:00 am. For information call 956-783-4587. Country Jam, 12:30 PM, Green Gate Grove, 700 N. Bentsen Palm Dr., Mission. Lunch is served from 11:00 am - 12:00 pm. For more information call 956-581-2932. Jam Session, 12:30 PM, Big Valley Trailer Park, 109 E. Business Highway 83, Donna. For information call 989-424-1299. Jam Session, 12:30 PM, Weslaco Trailer Park, 600 S. Bridge Ave., Weslaco. Lunch will start December 12th from 11:00 am to 12:30 pm. For information call 956-968-3474. All Park Garage Sale, 02:00 PM, Fiesta Village RV Park, 205 S. Stewart Rd., Mission. For more information call 956-585-9264. Round Dance w/The Ski’s Phase 2-3, 03:00 PM, Tip O’Texas RV Resort, 101 E. Sioux Rd., Pharr. For information

call Bob or Kay 956-460-7520. Karaoke, 03:00 PM, Winter Ranch RV Resort, 600 Hwy 495, Alamo. FREE Admission, For information call 956-783-4587. Harlingen Farmers Market, 03:00 PM, Downtown Harlingen, ‘A’ Street. The Market location is on ‘A’ Street between Jackson and Monroe, behind Grimsells and in front of New York Deli. Producers supply residents of Harlingen and surrounding communities with the freshest locally grown food available. There is a bountiful harvest being sold every week here - come take advantage of the best Harlingen has to offer! Round Dance w/The Ski’s Phase 3-4, 06:00 PM, Tip O’Texas RV Resort, 101 E. Sioux Rd., Pharr. For information call Bob or Kay 956-460-7520. Country Music Jam, 06:00 PM, AmeriCana RV Resort, 721 N. Bentsen Palm Dr., Mission. Open Country Jam. Everyone welcome. Light lunch served for donation. AmeriCana RV Resort is south of business 83 on Bentsen Palm Dr. 956-581-2334. UTRGV Men’S. Basketball vs. Our Lady of the Lake, 07:00 PM, UTRGV Fieldhouse, 1201 W. University Dr., Edinburg. Dance w/Andy & Brenda Coin, 07:00 PM, El Valle Del Sol/Luna, 2500 E. Business 83, Mission. $5.00 pp. For information call 956-585-5704. Dance w/Diego, 07:00 PM, Trophy Gardens RV Resort, 800 Hwy 495, Alamo. $5.00 pp. For information call 956-783-1003. Dance w/Larry & Mona, 07:00 PM, Snow to Sun RV Resort, 1701 N. International Blvd., Weslaco, $5.00 pp, BYOB. Wine and beer sold at bar. Free ice. For information call 956756-4958. Dance w/Manuel Rivera, 07:00 PM, Cottonwood Country Club, 1001 Ed Carey Dr., Harlingen. $6.00 pp. BYOB, For more information call 218-234-6411 or 956-438-6232. Dance w/Midwest Bellows & Brass, 07:00 PM, Tropical Valley Acres, 1240 E. Bus Hwy 83, Mission. For information call 956-583-5582 Dance w/Tavie Rock & Roll, 07:00 PM, Paradise South RV Resort, 9099 N. Mile 2 West Rd., Mercedes. $6.00 pp. For information call 956-825-9509. Entertainment w/Adam Pope Band, 07:00 PM, Oleander Acres RV Resort, 2421 S. Conway Ave., Mission. $6.00 pp. For information call 262-497-4241. Entertainment w/Bill Chrastil, 07:00 PM, W & I Resort, 206 S. Stewart Rd., Mission. $5.00 pp. For information call 956-585-6594. Entertainment w/JC Harrisson, 07:00 PM, Winter Haven Park, 1015 W. Sam Houston Blvd., Pharr. $6.00 pp. For information call 956-781-7811. Entertainment w/Paul Eve, 07:00

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PM, Fiesta Village RV Park, 205 S. Stewart Rd., Mission. $6.00 pp. Ice Cream & Ticket Sales begin at 6:00 pm. For information call 507-2597160 or 763-772-2363. Country, Johnny Cash & Variety. Entertainment w/Southern Reign, 07:00 PM, Canyon Lake RV Resort, 4770 N. Mayberry Rd, Mission. $7.00 pp. For information call 956-580-7654. Karaoke, 07:00 PM, American Legion Post 101, 417 S. Cage Blvd., Pharr. For information call 956-787-7451. Port Isabel Historic Ghost Tours, 08:00 PM, Port Isabel Light House. Every Saturday evening at 8 pm. One hour walking tour begins at the Port Isabel Lighthouse. Cost: $10 per person. Tickets available at the Port Isabel Chamber of Commerce, City Hall and Museums of Port Isabel. For more information, contact the Chamber office at 943-2262. Round Dance w/The Ski’s Phase 4-5-6, 08:00 PM, Tip O’Texas RV Resort, 101 E. Sioux Rd., Pharr. For information call Bob or Kay 956-460-7520.

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Grove Resort, 810 Bentsen Palm Dr., Mission. Non-denominational services. For information call 956-585-0703. Church Service, 08:30 AM, Trails End RV Resort, 2001 S. Texas Blvd., Weslaco. Deacon Bob Waters, in the park library. All Welcome. For information call 956-968-5051. Church Service, 08:30 AM, Victoria Palms Inn & Suites, 602 N. Victoria Rd., Donna. Call for information 956-782-3263. Church Service, 08:45 AM, San Juan Gardens RV Resort, 900 E. Business 83, San Juan. Pastor Len Mitchell, public is welcome to attend, for information call 956-781-1082. Church Service, 08:45 AM, Oleander Acres RV Resort, 2421 S. Conway Ave., Mission. For information call 262-497-4241. Church Service, 08:45 AM, Winter Haven Park, 1015 W. Sam Houston Blvd., Pharr. Pastor Robert Kracht. For information call 956-781-7881. Church Service, 09:00 AM, Alamo Palms Mobile Park, 1341 W. Business Hwy 83, Alamo. Pastor Brian Dent. For SUNDAY, JANUARY 3, 2016 information call 956-787-7571. Church Service, 09:00 AM, Southern Church Service, 08:30 AM, Bentsen Comfort RV Resort, 1501 S. Airport SCHEDULE OF EVENTS CONTINUED ON PAGE 20 >>

December 23, 2015 • • • Welcome

Home WINTER TEXAN • • • your official connection to the rio grande valley

DANCE ENTERTAINMENT & SHOWS SCHEDULE OF EVENTS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 19 Dr., Weslaco. For information call Chimney Park RV Resort, 4224 S. Conway, Mission. For information 956-638-3158. Church Service, 09:00 AM, Trophy call 956-585-5061. Gardens RV Resort, 800 Hwy Church Service, 09:00 AM, Big 495, Alamo. Non-Denominational Valley Trailer Park, 109 W. Business Service with Pastor Darrel Hardy. For Highway 83, Donna. For information call 989-424-1299. information call 956-783-1003. Church Service, 09:00 AM, Siesta Village Chapel Church Service, 09:00 Village, 2712 S. International Blvd., AM, Tip O’Texas RV Resort, 101 E. Weslaco. Pastor Ralph Hunt. For Sioux Rd., Pharr. For information call information call 956-969-3558. 956-787-6461. Church Service, 09:00 AM, Hidden Valley Port Isabel Antique & Flea Market, Ranch, 7600 Long Dr., Mission. Coffee 09:00 AM, Beulah Lee Park, Hwy and refreshments available at 8:30. 100, Port Isabel. For information Services with Pastor Cameron Gillette. call 956-455-6798. Church Service, 09:00 AM, Eastgate Church Service, 09:15 AM, Sleepy Valley MH & RV Park, 2801 E. Harrison Ave., Resort, 2301 N. Abram Rd., Mission. Harlingen. Pastor David Squire. For For information call 956-581-1871. information call 956-423-3137. Church Service, 09:30 AM, Pharr Church Service, 09:00 AM, Winter South, 1402 S. Cage Blvd., Pharr. Ranch RV Resort, 600 State Hwy 495, Dr. Gerald Parrott. Coffee fellowship Alamo. Pastor Frisby Worship Leader. to follow service, For information call Fellowship at 8:30. Coffee, cookies 956-358-1089 or 956-781-2715. and desserts. Church Service, 09:30 AM, Tropic Church Service, 09:00 AM, Citrus Valley Winds RV Resort, 1501 N. Loop RV Park, 2901 W. Hwy 107, McAllen. 499, Harlingen. For information call Pastor Jim Troutman. For information 956-423-5484. call 956-383-8189. Church Service, 09:30 AM, Casa Del Sol Church Service, 09:00 AM, Fiesta Village RV Park, 400 N. Val Verde Rd., Donna. RV Park, 205 S. Stewart Rd., Mission. For information call 956-464-2272. For information call 956-585-9264. Church Service, 09:30 AM, Country Church Service, 09:00 AM, Palms RV Park, 600 E. FM 495,

JAM SESSIONS San Juan. Pastor Tom Shouse. For information call 956-787-0680. Church Service, 10:00 AM, AmeriCana RV Resort, 721 N. Bentsen Palm Dr., Mission. Pastor Lee Tracy. Coffee social following the service. For information call 956-581-2334. Church Service, 10:00 AM, Paradise Resort Estates, 301 E. Hall Acres Rd., Pharr. For information call 956-787-1521. Church Service, 10:00 AM, Sunshine RV Resort, 1900 Grace Ave., Harlingen. For information call 956-425-7448. Entertainment w/Lynn Dvorak, 11:00 AM, Don-Wes Flea Market, 208 N. Victoria Rd., Donna. For more information call 402-640-4739. Mindfulness & Meditation, 11:00 AM, McAllen Nature Center, 4101 W Business 83, Mission. Learn how mindfulness and meditation can provide a sense of peace amongst the hectic lifestyle that most of us live! We’ll spend a few minutes talking about the purpose and benefits of mindfulness, walk the trails slowly for about 20 minutes (walking meditation), and finish with about 20 minutes of stationary meditation in nature under the shade of our beautiful native trees. Free admission. For information call 956-681-3333. Farmer’S. Market @ The Shores, 11:00 AM, 8500 Padre Blvd., SPI. Fresh produce, fresh eggs, fresh seafood! Healthy shopping for healthy foods. Located at ‘The Shores’ north of SPI Convention Centre. Every Sunday 11am-1pm. Gospel Jam, 01:00 PM, Leisure World, 400 E. 18th St., Weslaco. For information call 956-447-3821. Jam Session, 01:00 PM, 1015 RV Park, 1402 S. International, Weslaco. For more information call: 956-968-7516 Fiesta Village Jam, 01:30 PM, Fiesta Village RV Park, 205 S. Stewart Rd., Mission. No Charge. Old time and Country music. For information call 763-242-7214. Gospel Jam, 01:30 PM, Mission West RV Park, 511 E.. Loop 374, Palmview. Concessions Available. For information call 956-585-5551. Shuffleboard Tournament, 02:00 PM, American Legion Post 37, 1305 E. Jasmine Ave., McAllen. Max’s Grill open 2:00 pm - 5:00 pm. For information call 956-682-7841 Live Music!, 02:00 PM, Riverside Club Bar & Grill, 214 E. Chimney Rd., Mission. For information call 956-581-1033. Entertainment w/Veteran’S. Benefit Show, 02:00 PM, Bit-O-Heaven RV & MH Park, 1051 W. Business Hwy 83, Donna. $6.00 pp with Tim Hadler. All proceeds to Veteran’s. Gumi USA, Popcorn & Soda for sale. For information call 956-464-5191. Social Walkers, 02:00 PM, McAllen

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Nature Center, 4101 W. Business 83, McAllen. A little bit of exercise, a little bit of chatting, a whole lot of fun! A very informal program for people of any age and ability to come out and enjoy our nature and our trails with others. All of our trails are ADA accessible. McAllen Nature Center admission and programs are free of charge. For information call 956-681-3333. Round Dance, 02:30 PM, Lakewood RV Resort, 4525 Graham Rd., Harlingen. For information call 956-423-1170. Ice Cream Social, 02:30 PM, Mission West RV Park, 511 E. Loop 374, Palmview. Entertainment w/Pat Divison Circus, 05:30 PM, Twin Lakes RV Park, 301 N. Shary Rd., Mission. $5.00 pp. For information call 956-585-9982. BBQ & Potluck, 05:30 PM, American Legion Post 101, 417 S. Cage Blvd., Pharr. Football, BBQ, Free Pot Luck, for information call 956-787-7451. Entertainment w/Jeff Gordon, 06:00 PM, Trophy Gardens RV Resort, 800 Hwy 495, Alamo. $6.00 pp. For information call 956-783-1003. Country Jam, 06:00 PM, Sleepy Valley Resort, 2301 N. Abram Rd., Mission. FREE Admission. For information call 956-581-1871. Gospel Jam, 06:00 PM, Bluebonnet RV Resort, 3366 N. Bentsen Park Dr., Mission. For information call 956-585-7630. Jam Session, 06:00 PM, Tip O’Texas RV Resort, 101 E. Sioux Rd., Pharr. FREE Admission. For information call 956-787-6461. PH II, III & IV Round Dance Party, 06:30 PM, Alamo Palms, 1341 W. Business 83, Alamo. Tampico Hall. For information call 765-384-7270. Entertainment w/Freddie and Sheila, 06:30 PM, Citrus Valley RV Park, 2901 W. State Highway 107, McAllen. For information call 715-928-2347. Entertainment w/Bill Chrastil, 07:00 PM, Country Sunshine RV Resort, 1601 S. Airport Dr., Weslaco. $6.00 pp. For information call 956-638-3158. Entertainment w/Denim & Diamonds, 07:00 PM, Leisure World, 400 E. 18th St., Weslaco. $5.00 pp. For information call 956-447-3821. Entertainment w/Faith’S. Journey, 07:00 PM, Ranchero Village Mobile Home Park, 1900 S. Bridge Ave., Weslaco. $7.00 pp. Popcorn, soda, water and ice cream drumsticks for purchase. For information call Kerry 269-599-6845. Entertainment w/JC Harrisson, 07:00 PM, Lakewood RV Resort, 4525 Graham Rd., Harlingen. $7.00 pp, For information call 956-428-7116. Entertainment w/John Sager, 07:00 PM, Magic Valley RV Park, 2300 E. Business 83, Weslaco. $7.00 pp. For information call 319-239-3462. Entertainment w/Ruthie, 07:00 PM,

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DANCE ENTERTAINMENT & SHOWS Valley View Estates, 2100 Vernon St., Mission. Advance tickets $5.00 pp. At the Door $6.00 pp. For information call 916-813-9635. Entertainment w/Southern Anthem, 07:00 PM, Paradise South RV Resort, 9099 N. Mile 2 West Rd., Mercedes. $6.00 pp. For information call 956825-9509. Free Movie, 07:00 PM, Paradise Resort Estates, 301 E. Hall Acres Rd., Pharr. Free admission, for information call 956-223-9359. Listing of movies available on website, pharrparadisepark.sharepoint.com. Snack bar open.

MONDAY, JANUARY 4, 2016 Courtyard Sale & Flea Market, 08:00 AM, Chimney Park RV Resort, 4224 S. Conway, Mission. Variety of vendors and flea market items. Breakfast & Lunch Available. Tables available for rent, call 956-585-5061 for information. Craft Fair, 08:00 AM, Casa Del Sol, 400 N. Val Verde Rd., Donna. For information call 956-464-2272. Mainstream/Plus Dance, 09:30 AM, Park Place Estates, 5401 W. Business 83, Harlingen. With Rich & Carolyn, for information call 956-412-0375. Mindfulness & Meditation, 09:30 AM, McAllen Nature Center, 4101 W. Business 83, McAllen. Learn how mindfulness and meditation can provide a sense of peace amongst the hectic lifestyle that most of us live! We’ll spend a few minutes talking about the purpose and benefits of mindfulness, walk the trails slowly for about 20 minutes (walking meditation), and finish with about 20 minutes of stationary meditation in nature under the shade of our beautiful native trees. This program is provided FREE of charge! A donation box is available at the sign-in table. All donations are used to purchase native plants for the property. For information call 956-681-3333. Power Walk, 10:00 AM, Sleepy Valley Resort, 2301 N. Abram Rd., Mission. Come have a great time walking. Indoors in the Clubhouse. Walk for fun, to take the pounds off, enjoy the fellowship of others. For information call 956-581-1871. Beginning Line Dance, 11:00 AM, Casa del Valle, 1048 N. Alamo Rd., Alamo. For information call 956-783-5008. Jam Session, 11:00 AM, Southern Comfort RV Resort, 1501 S. Airport Dr., Weslaco. Lunch served at 11:00 am, Jam starts at 12:00 pm. For information call 956-638-3158. Pre-Jam Luncheon, 11:00 AM, Winter Haven Park, 1015 W. Sam Houston Blvd., Pharr. Pre-Jam luncheon. Soup, sandwiches, homemade pie, drinks. Everyone Welcome. For information

call 956-781-7881. Jam Lunch, 11:30 AM, Enchanted Valley Ranch, 7300 Monroe St., Mission. Variable menu each week. For information call 956-519-8597. Boat Ride/River Tour, 12:00 PM, Riverside Club, 214 E. Chimney Rd., Mission. For information call 956-581-1033. Line Dance, 12:30 PM, Casa del Valle, 1048 N. Alamo Rd., Alamo. For information call 956-783-5008. Open Variety Jam, 12:30 PM, Alamo Rec Veh Park, 1320 W. Frontage Rd., Alamo. Lunch is served at 11:00 am every Monday. Menu varies each week. For information call 956-783-5440. Yahoo, 01:00 PM, Sleepy Valley Resort, 2301 N. Abram Rd., Mission. Come enjoy a quite afternoon playing Yahoo with your friends. For information call 956-581-1871. Beginner Line Dance Class, 01:00 PM, AmeriCana RV Resort, 721 N. Bentsen Palm Dr., Mission. Beginning line dancing with basic steps fully explained and directed. For information call 956-591-2334. Dance Lessons, 01:00 PM, Leisure Valley Park, 1920 East Bogey Dr., Mission. $6.00/person. Couples may start at any time. For information call 956-424-1858. Country Western Jam, 01:00 PM, Citrus Valley RV Park, 2901 W. Hwy 107, McAllen. MC Al Lawson. For information call 765-653-0590. Jam, 01:00 PM, Winter Haven Park, 1015 W. Sam Houston Blvd., Pharr. Jam sessions are directed by Glenn “Buddy” Collins. Jammers by invitation only. Free admission. Cookies available. Everyone come and enjoy music and social time. For information call 956-781-7881. Jam Session, 01:00 PM, Wagon City North, 2905 N. Conway Ave., Mission. All Jammers & Listeners are welcome. For information call 515-802-9421. Come have a good time! Jam Session, 01:00 PM, Alamo Palms Resort, 1341 W. Business 83, Alamo. Main Hall. Everyone welcome. For information call 956-787-7571. Rock & Roll Jam, 01:00 PM, Enchanted Valley Ranch, 7300 Monroe St., Mission. For information call 956-519-8597. Newbie Clogging!, 01:15 PM, Tip O’Texas RV Resort, 101 E. Sioux Rd., Pharr. $4.00 donation. Each session is progressive, come when you can and stay as late as you want. For information call Jim: 956-781-2275. PH III Round Dance/Workshop, 02:00 PM, Alamo Palms, 1341 W. Business 83, Tampico Hall. For information call 765-384-7270. Experienced Clogging!, 02:25 PM, Tip O’Texas RV Resort, 101 E. Sioux Rd., Pharr. Each session is progressive, come when you can and stay as late

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MEALS

SALES

as you want. $4 donation. Info: Jim: Legion Post 439, 219 E. Commercial 956-781-2275. Ave, La Feria. $8 pp. 956-797-3701. Square Dance, 03:00 PM, Lakewood RV Burgers, 05:00 PM, Paradise Park, Resort, 4525 Graham Rd., Harlingen. Inc., 100 E. Hackberry Ave., McAllen. For information call 956-423-1170. For information call 956-682-8081. Happy Hour w/Diego, 03:00 PM, Snow to Hamburger Nite, 05:30 PM, American Sun RV Resort, 1701 N. International Legion Post 101, 417 S. Cage Blvd., Weslaco. Pass the Hat. BYOB. Blvd., Pharr. Hamburger - $7.00, Wine and beer sold at bar. Free ice. For Cheeseburger - $7.50, Extra Patty information call 620-441-1173. $3.00, Large FF - $2.50, Small Onion Hamburger Night, 03:30 PM, Mission Ring - $3.50, Extra Cheese - $.50, West RV Park Charbroiled Hamburgers Small FF - $2.00, for information call $3.50, Charbroiled Cheeseburgers 956-787-7451. $3.75. Charbroiled Grilled Chicken Country Jam, 06:00 PM, The Grove, Sandwich $5.25, French Fries $1.75, 612 Business 83, San Juan. For Onion Rings $2.25, Pies $1.25. information call 507-219-0579. Beginner Lessons, 04:00 PM, Alamo Country Jam, 06:00 PM, Mission West Palms, 1341 W. Business 83, Alamo. RV Park, 511 E. Loop 374, Palmview. For information call 765-384-7270. Concessions Available. For information PH II Workshop, 04:00 PM, Alamo call 956-585-5551. Palms, 1341 W. Business 83, Magic Valley Chorus Of Sweet Adelines Alamo.Tampico Hall. For information International, 07:00 PM, St. Mark’s call 765-384-7270. United Methodist Church, McAllen. Entertainment w/Ed-Vern, 04:00 PM, Shirley 956-661-9926. Janet 956Palms II Lounge, 600 E. 9th St., 682-8245. Practices held every Mission. Great food, no smoke, BYOB. Monday 7-10 pm @ St. Mark’s United Dinner, 04:30 PM, Bentsen Grove Methodist Church, McAllen. Resort, 810 Bentsen Palm Dr., Mission. Dance w/Hitman, 07:00 PM, Rio $6.50 pp. Check each week for menu! Valley Estates, 715 N. Westgate For information call 956-585-0704. Dr., Weslaco. $5.00 pp. SetSpaghetti Dinner, 04:30 PM, American ups available, free popcorn. For SCHEDULE OF EVENTS CONTINUED ON PAGE 22 >>

December 23, 2015 • • • Welcome

Home WINTER TEXAN • • • your official connection to the rio grande valley

DANCE ENTERTAINMENT & SHOWS

JAM SESSIONS

MEALS

SALES

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 21 information call 956-968-2708. Entertainment w/Freddie & Shelia, 07:00 PM, Hidden Valley Ranch, 7600 Long Dr., Mission. $6.00 pp. Guitar Wizard 50’s, 60’s. For information call 956-580-4477. Entertainment w/Jason Whorlow, 07:00 PM, Palm Shadows RV Park, 200 N. Val Verde Rd., Donna. $5.00 pp, For information call 956-464-3326. Entertainment w/Paul Eve, 07:00 PM, Lemon Tree RV Inn, 1740 E. Business 83, Mission. $6.00 pp. For information call 262-395-3509.

TUESDAY, JANUARY 5, 2016 Songbird Stroll, 08:00 AM, Quinta Mazatlan, 600 Sunset, McAllen. Join an expert birder on a one hour bird walk for all skill levels! Over 200 species have been seen in the park since 2006! No experience Necessary, and loaner binoculars are available. Note: Large groups, please call in advance. $3 adults, $2 students & seniors. For information call 956-681-3370. Chip-O-Texas Woodcarvers, 08:30 AM, Park Place Estates, 5401 W. Business 83, Harlingen. Friendship Hall, come join us! For information

call 956-399-6660. Bird Walk, 08:30 AM, Edinburg WBC, 714 Raul Longoria Rd., Edinburg. Join the EWBC Naturalist for weekly Bird Walks. No level of experience is required. Com and see what’S. been showing up at the Wetlands throughout the week! These programs are free with paid admission or membership. Tours are available in English or Spanish. For information call 956-381-9922. Beginners Line Dancing, 09:00 AM, Park Place Estates, 5401 W. Business 83, Harlingen. $2.00 pp. For information call 956-412-0375. Beginning Line Dance, 09:00 AM, Tropic Winds RV Resort, 1501 N. Loop 499, Harlingen. For information call 956-423-5484. Round Dance, 09:30 AM, Lakewood RV Resort, 4525 Graham Rd., Harlingen. For information call 956-423-1170. Square Dance Plus w/Butch Danielski, 09:30 AM, Pine To Palm Resort Park, 802 S. International Blvd., Weslaco. $4.50 pp. Rounds at 9:30 with Marge Scherrill. Square Dance at 10 am. Contact information call 956-973-8335. Power Walk, 10:00 AM, Sleepy Valley Resort, 2301 N. Abram Rd., Mission. Come have a great time walking. Indoors in the Clubhouse. Walk for fun, to take the pounds off, enjoy the fellowship of others. For information call 956-581-1871. FREE Zumba Classes, 10:00 AM, South Padre Island KOA, 1 Padre Blvd., South Padre Island. For information call 956-761-5665. Countrycising - Line dance + exercise, 10:00 AM, Casa del Valle, 1048 N. Alamo Rd., Alamo. For information call 956-783-5008. Dance Lessons, 10:00 AM, Victoria Palms Inn & Suites, 602 North Victoria Rd., Donna. $6.00/person. Couples may start at any time. Intermediate Line Dance, 10:00 AM, Tropic Winds RV Resort, 1501 N. Loop 499, Harlingen. For information call 956-423-5484. Women’S. Bible Study, 11:00 AM, Tropic Winds RV Resort, 1501 N. Loop 499, Harlingen. For information call 956-423-5484. Open Jam, 11:00 AM, Leisure World, 400 E. 18th St., Weslaco. 11:00am - 12:00pm Lunch Served. 12:00pm - 2:00pm Music. For information call 956-447-3821. Art in the Park, 11:00 AM, McAllen Nature Center, 4101 W. Business 83, McAllen. Join a staff artist for a fun project under the oak trees. Projects vary from painting a reusable cloth grocery bag, to sharpie markers on ceramic tiles, to watercolors, sketching and more. Ages 15 and up only. No exceptions. McAllen Nature Center

admission and programs are free of charge. A donation box is available. All donations are used to purchase native plants for the site. *Some Art in the Park programs may offer an optional fee for upgraded materials. For information call 956-681-3333. Boat Ride/River Tour, 12:00 PM, Riverside Club, 214 E. Chimney Rd., Mission. For information call 956-581-1033. Diabetes Management Class, 01:00 PM, 3rd Floor, McAllen Medical Center East Classroom, 3rd Floor, McAllen. Medical Center Classes are provided in English and Spanish every other week. For more information, please call Mary Escaname at 956-971-5850. Winter Haven Resort Chess Club, 01:00 PM, Winter Haven Resort, 3501 Old Port Isabel Rd., Brownsville. 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm chess training and then play from 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm. The members range from beginners to experienced players. The club meets in A-2 of the clubhouse. Please call to let us know you are coming so that we can leave word at the gate. 956-521-8635. Round Dance w/The Ski’s 4+Figures, 01:00 PM, Tip O’Texas RV Resort, 101 E. Sioux Rd., Pharr. For information call Bob or Kay 956-460-7520. Country Music Jam, 01:00 PM, J-5 RV Park, 3907 N. Taylor Rd., Mission. Host: Marion Price, Coffee & cookies served. For information call 956-682-7495. Jam, 01:00 PM, Paradise Park, Inc., 100 E. Hackberry Ave., McAllen. Lunch available 11:00 am - 1:00 pm. For information call 956-682-8081. Jam Session, 01:00 PM, Roadrunner RV Park, 1222 N. Cesar Chavez Rd., Alamo. Lunch served at 11:30 a.m., for information call 712-259-2222. Jam Session, 01:00 PM, Lakewood RV Resort, 4525 Graham Rd., Harlingen. For information call 956-423-1170. Jam w/Ray & Gynger, 01:00 PM, Oleander Acres RV Resort, 2421 S. Conway Ave., Mission. Oleander’s Famous Cake served at half time!! For information call 262-497-4241 Bluegrass Jam Session, 01:30 PM, Kenwood RV Resort, 1201 N. Main St., La Feria. For information call 956-797-1875. Country Music Jam, 02:00 PM, Casa del Valle, 1048 N. Alamo Rd., Alamo. For information call 956-783-5008. Round Dance w/The Ski’s 3+Figures, 03:00 PM, Tip O’Texas RV Resort, 101 E. Sioux Rd., Pharr. For information call Bob or Kay 956-460-7520. Happy Hour w/Lynn Dvorak, 03:00 PM, Snow to Sun RV Resort, 1701 N. International Blvd., Weslaco. Pass the Hat. BYOB. Wine and beer sold at bar. Free ice. For information call 620-441-1173.

Country Jam Dinner, 04:00 PM, Canyon Lake RV Resort, 4770 N. Mayberry Rd., Mission. For information call 956-580-4545. Jam Dinner, 04:00 PM, Enchanted Valley Ranch, 7300 Monroe St., Mission. Variable choices each week such as sandwiches, hamburgers, hot dogs, soups, etc. For information call 956-519-8597. Lasagna Dinner, 05:00 PM, American Legion Post 37, 1305 E. Jasmine Ave, McAllen. For information call 956-682-7841. Country Jam, 05:30 PM, Enchanted Valley Ranch, 7300 Monroe St., Mission. For information call 956-519-8597. Taco Nite, 05:30 PM, American Legion Post 101, 417 S. Cage Blvd., Pharr. 3 Taco Plate - $6.50, Taco Salad $7.50, Chalupa - $2.50 each, Extra Taco - $2.50, Extra Sour Cream - $.50, for information call 956-787-7451. Live entertainment w/Jim Staton. Country Jam, 06:00 PM, Canyon Lake RV Resort, 4770 N. Mayberry Rd., Mission. For information call 956-580-4545. Dance w/Louis Gomez, 07:00 PM, Victoria Palms RV Resort, 602 N. Victoria Rd., Donna. $5.00 pp. Concessions available. BYOB. For information call 956-782-3263. Dance w/SweetWater, 07:00 PM, Alamo Rec Veh Park, 1320 W. Frontage Rd., Alamo. $5.00 pp. Advance tickets available. For information call 956-783-5440. Square Dance, 07:00 PM, Tropic Star RV Resort, 1401 S. Cage Blvd., Pharr. Doors open @ 6:15, for more information call 956-283-7581. Entertainment w/4 His Glory, 07:00 PM, Texas Trails RV Resort, 501 W Owassa Rd., Pharr $6.00 pp, for information call 956-787-6538. Entertainment w/Billy Ryan Droze, 07:00 PM, Green Gate Grove, 700 N. Bentsen Palm Dr., Mission. For information call 956-581-2932. Entertainment w/Jason Whorlow, 07:00 PM, Southern Comfort RV Resort, 1501 S. Airport Dr., Weslaco. $7.00 pp. For information call 956-638-3158. Entertainment w/John Sager, 07:00 PM, Bentsen Grove Resort, 810 Bentsen Palm Dr., Mission. $8.00 pp, ticket sales begin December 15th. For information call 956-585-0703. Entertainment w/Legends & Laughter, 07:00 PM, Alamo Rose RV Park, 938 S. Alamo Rd., Alamo. $7.00 pp, Paul Eve & Robert Ferguson, Concessions Available. For information call 956-783-2605. Karaoke, 07:00 PM, American Legion Post 101, 417 S. Cage Blvd., Pharr. •

www.welcomehomergv.com • • • December 23, 2015

The “Art” of Giving “Steak” in your Community, Cowboy Up For Kids, Buckaroo Set for January 9, 2016 Special to Welcome Home RGV

Boys & Girls Clubs of Edinburg RGV

has begun ticket sales to their annual “Steak” in Your Community event to be held at 6:00 p.m. Saturday, January 9, 2016, at the Legacy Center, located at 702 Cullen St (Rogers and Expressway 281). The “Steak” in Your Community fundraiser is the Club’s FUNdraising event, which is filled with fast-paced auctions, live music from the RiverRock Band, good food by Palacios Endowment, and great company. This year’s honoree is Art Ortega, CEO at Texas National Bank. Art was born and raised in Mercedes by Jose P. and Genoveva Ortega. Art’s parents came to the U.S. from Mexico in search of a better life for themselves and their children. They settled in the rural farming community south of La Villa where Art was instilled with a strong work ethic, family values, and morals. In addition, his parents had a strong sense of faith and belief in the education system. It is through that teaching that Art felt a strong need to help the Boys & Girls Clubs of Edinburg RGV in their annual fundraising efforts. Art’s first foray into the area of finance was when he began working at Texas State Bank in 1985. He received his degree in finance in 1987 from Pan American University (now known as University of Texas Rio Grande Valley). In 199, he took his expertise in finance in a new direction by providing financial consulting. After 17 years of working with Fortune 500 companies, such as Merrill Lynch, Chase Investment, and UBS Financial, Art decided to join forces with his brother, Saul Ortega, on a fulltime basis and grow several ventures they had invested in throughout the years. Two of the businesses had a special meaning to the duo as one farm, Platon Farms, was named for their father’s middle name and the other ranch, Tres de Enero Ranch, after their mother’s birthday. Art was brought back into the banking industry by Texas National Bank, where he is the Chief Executive Officer for four branches throughout Hidalgo County. At Texas National Bank, Art has fostered community engagement with the bank’s employees. The service mindset is something he has held since his childhood, and he believes the future belongs to the children residing in our communities.

Club members are happy to announce the 2016 Steak In Your Community Honorary Host, Art Ortega, CEO of Texas National Bank. Pictured with Mr. Ortega are Club members Vihn G – 9, Valeria C. – 10, Isabella R – 9, and Ariel G – 10

“Boys & Girls Clubs of Edinburg RGV provide a huge service to our younger generation. While I grew up in an atmosphere where I was fortunate to have one of my parents at home to watch over and guide our development, the same is not true of many of today’s youth” Art said. He further explained that single family homes and homes in which both parents work make teaching family values and morals nearly impossible. He added, “BGCE RGV provides a place to fill this gap in a very positive and safe environment. The benefit and impact to the community is beyond measure.” In seeking this year’s honoree, it was important that the children of the club be the main focus of all fundraising efforts. In that sense, there could be no individual more committed to positively impacting the club other than Art Ortega. In this sense, the “Art” of giving is about more than writing a check or having checks written by otheres. It is maintaining a true passion for providing the next generation with the most and best resources available to help them be tomorrow’s CEOs. Proceeds from the event will help support youth development programs at the Boys & Girls Clubs and the Youth-of-the-Year scholarship program. The 2015 Youth-of-the-Year will be announced at the event. Tickets are $100 per person, with a limited number of tables available for $1,000 (seats 10). The board of directors would like to extend an invitation to anyone who would like to celebrate with us. Tickets can be purchased by calling 956-383-2582 or logging on to www.bgcesteak.com. •

UTRGV Athletics Announces

Sale of Season Ticket Mini Plans Special to Welcome Home RGV

The

University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV) Department of Intercollegiate Athletics recently announced that basketball season ticket mini plans are now on sale. Fans can choose from three different mini plans, which include the Women’s WAC Mini Plan and men’s basketball Four-Game Weekend Plan and New Year Pick Six Plan. By purchasing any one of the three plans, fans can save at least 10 percent off the regular individual game ticket price. For $25, fans who purchase the Women’s WAC Mini Plan will get a general admission ticket to all seven women’s basketball home conference games from January 7 through February 27. All seats for women’s basketball games are general admission. In the Four-Game Weekend Plan, fans will receive a chair-back reserved ticket to Saturday men’s basketball games January 16, February 6 and 20, and March 5 for $35. Fans who purchase the New Year Pick Six Plan will receive a chair-back reserved ticket for any six of the eight men’s basketball home games

from January 2 through March 5 for $50. Chair-back reserved seating for the men’s basketball mini plans are in Sections A and D. For more information or reservations, please call assistant athletic director for Ticket Operations & Sales, David Riggs, at 956-6653747 or email David at david.riggs@ utrgv.edu. • About The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley was created by the Texas Legislature December 7, 2012, in a historic move that combines the resources and assets of UTPA and UTB, and, for the first time, makes it possible for residents of the Rio Grande Valley to benefit from the Permanent University Fund. The institution will also be home to a School of Medicine and will transform Texas and the nation by becoming a leader in student success, teaching, research, and healthcare. UTRGV enrolled its first class in the fall of 2015, and the School of Medicine will open in 2016.

• • • Is there a dish served at a restaurant in the RGV that you

Love That

Dish

can’t wait to have when you come back HOME to us? If there is, please send an email to us at news@welcomehomergv.com and tell us the name of the restaurant, the Valley city where it is located, the name of the dish, and why you love it so much. We can’t wait to hear why you LOVE THAT DISH!” •

December 23, 2015 • • • Welcome

Home WINTER TEXAN • • • your official connection to the rio grande valley

www.welcomehomergv.com • • • December 23, 2015

Tee Time in the Rio Grande Valley: An Introduction to Valley Golf Courses Tony Butler Golf Course in Harlingen

Named in Honor of an RGV Sports Hall-of-Famer Special to Welcome Home RGV

Our

featured golf course this week is the Tony Butler Golf Course. When it opened in 1929, it was the Harlingen Municipal Golf Course. Tony Butler leased the course from the City of Harlingen for the better part of 40 years. He left the area for a short time but then returned and was still the golf pro at Harlingen Municipal Golf Course when he passed away in 1979. His son-inlaw, Buddy Kalinsky, took over the facility after his passing. The Harlingen Country Club members played golf at the municipal course but had their own clubhouse with a swimming pool (where the Golf Crest Condominiums are today). In 1968, they lost their clubhouse to a fire, and they relocated to their present location and built a new clubhouse and their own course, leaving the Harlingen Municipal Course. Tony Butler was credited with bringing some of golf’s greatest athletes to the Rio Grande Valley for professional tournaments during the great depression. He had a 49-year career in golf. He had a consistent short game and was an accurate putter, which reflects the skills required for success when playing the Tony Butler Municipal Golf Course.

2640 S. “M” Street Harlingen, TX 78578 956-215-5970 Eddie Medlin Head Professional Director of Golf

In high school, Tony was captain of the Austin High School golf team and at the age of 20 defeated Tinsley Penick for the Austin City Championship. His college career at the University of Texas in Austin was brief because he turned professional in 1928 and moved to Port Arthur. Following his professional career, he was the first golf coach at the University of Texas. June 20, 1973, Harlingen Municipal Golf Course was renamed in Tony Butler’s honor. He retired in 1975 to become a professional emeritus. In 1998, the Rio Grande Valley Sports Hall of Fame chose him as one of its inductees. The Harlingen Municipal Golf Course opened to the public in 1929 as a 9-hole layout designed and built

by John Bredemus. Today it has an 18-hole course, as well as the original 9-hole. It has a complete Pro Shop, a short-order kitchen, a conference room for special events, a driving range, and chipping and putting greens. The South Texas terrain makes it an easy walking course, if you so choose. The 9-hole course is a par 35 with two sets of tees. They are 2881 yards with a rate/slope for men of 33.6/108 and 2467 yards with a rate/slope for women of 33.5/104. The greens are Emerald Zoysia. The course is open to the public. The 18-hole course is a par 71with three sets of tees. They are 6320 yards with a rate/slope for men of 70.5/128, 5837 yards with a rate/ slope for men of 68.2/122, and 5113 yards with a rate/slope for women of 68.9/112. The greens are Champions

Ultra-Dwarf Bermuda. There is also a fourth set of tees called Senior Tees, which have not been rated but make the course easier for a number of senior citizens who play the course strictly for enjoyment. Eddie Medlin is the head professional and director of golf at the course, located at 2640 South “M” Street in Harlingen. You may book tee times by calling 956-216-5970. •

The Rio Grande Valley is blessed with great weather, as well as great golf courses. There is a course for every player, from beginners to accomplished golfers. There are more than twenty 18hole courses throughout the Valley and almost as many nine-hole courses. Some of the nine-hole courses are Par 3s, which are perfect for the beginner and for our older citizens who still enjoy the game but are unable to play a larger course. Some of the courses are public and some are private. In each publication, Welcome Home RGV will highlight one of the Valley’s great golf courses.

Winter Craft Day and Winter Wonder Wetlands at Edinburg World Birding Center Special to Welcome Home RGV

Winter

break is almost here. If you’re looking for something different to do with your family, then head over to the Edinburg Scenic Wetlands and World Birding Center (EWBC) for four days of educational fun with its Winter Craft Day and Winter Wonder Wetlands program. You will enjoy nature-related and outdoor activities designed to engage, inspire, and entertain the whole family. Saturday, December 26, is Winter Craft Day as part of the EWBC’s monthly Spectacular Saturday activities. Throughout this day, the EWBC will have different crafts for families to enjoy. Bring your creativity and holiday cheer to make fun, winter-inspired crafts, such as paper snowflakes, reindeer headbands, cotton snowmen, and more.

Tuesday, December 29, through Thursday, December 31, from 2:30 – 4 p.m., the entire family can enjoy several nature-inspired activities with

the EWBC’s Winter Wonder Wetlands program. The event begins with Micro-Mania. On this day, families can observe wintery objects under a

microscope and marvel at their tiny patterns. On Wednesday, learn how furry friends survive the cold winter months with a show-and-tell, and then enjoy a walk on the center’s grounds. On Thursday, you are invited to revel in crafting beautiful wreaths made from seeds, leaves, and petals. Winter Craft Day is a free event. Entry for Winter Wonder Wetlands is regular admission: $3 for adults, $2 for students and seniors, and no charge for children five and under. Admission is free for EWBC members. Reservations are recommended. The Edinburg Scenic Wetlands & World Birding Center is located at 714 S. Raul Longoria Road (in the Edinburg Municipal Park). For more information, call 956-381-9922 or visit www.EdinburgWBC.org. •

December 23, 2015 • • • Welcome

Home WINTER TEXAN • • • your official connection to the rio grande valley

PARK NEWS

Mark Your Calendars for January 26 for the Winter Ranch Quilt Show Special to Welcome Home RGV

You don’t want to miss the Quilt

Show at Winter Ranch R.V. Park and Resort (600 Hwy. 495 in Alamo) Tuesday, January 26, from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Admission is $2.00. Free coffee, cookies, and door prizes. Vendors of various quilting supplies will also be part of the show. There will be a “Turning of the Quilts” (antique quilts) at 10:30 a.m. All proceeds go to our “Quilting for the Needy”

projects. Last season we donated nine quilts to the Alamo Police/Fire Department. We also donated 197 quilts,67 cloth diapers, 24 burp cloths, 14 knitted caps, 10 pairs of knitted slippers, and five knitted scarves to McAllen Easter Seals, 55 quilts and 44 knitted caps to the McAllen Medical Center Neonatal Unit, and 44 quilts to First Responders. •

CSNSongs Performing at Llano Grande January 8 Special to Welcome Home RGV

CSNSongs is a group of seasoned

and professional musicians that performs all of the timeless Crosby Stills Nash & Young hits. All of Crosby Stills Nash & Young’s compositions are highly respected by CSNSongs and are reproduced perfectly as they were originally written, recorded, and performed through the group’s musical legacy. The music was born in Woodstock, New York, at the famous Woodstock Music Festival in the summer of 1969 when Crosby Stills and Nash hit the stage and changed the face of folk-rock music forever. Their music continued throughout the 70s, 80s, 90s and is still enjoyed today. The harmonious vocals Crosby Stills Nash & Young are so well known for are heard in every song performed by CSNSongs as they are perfectly reproduced. Audiences are always amazed and delighted as they enjoy being encouraged to participate and sing along with their favorite Crosby Stills Nash & Young hit songs throughout the entire show. Exciting dialogue adds expression to

this musically dynamic performance while taking you to a time in history that will never be forgotten. CSNSongs will perform at Llano Grande Lake Park Resort Friday, January 8 at 7:00 p.m. This is expected to be the first show in the new Event Center at Llano Grande. In the event the new building is not ready, the show will be held in the Recreation Hall. Tickets are available at Llano Grande Park Lake Resort, 2215 East West Blvd. (Hwy 83 then south on Mile 2 West to gate) in Mercedes. To order tickets by phone, please call 956-565-2228. For more information, call Robert Ferguson at 574-361-2947. •

www.welcomehomergv.com • • • December 23, 2015

PARK NEWS

Llano Grande Fulfills Christmas Wishes Special to Welcome Home RGV

Llano Grande Resort and Country

Club was pleased to fulfill the Christmas wishes of over 330 children in Weslaco and Mercedes through the Angel Tree Program sponsored by the Child Protective Services of Weslaco. Last year we filled just over 315, and we were very pleased to do even more this year. The volunteer ladies of Llano did a magnificent job wrapping each and every gift for children from infants to 18 year olds. •

1st RESPONDER BUS TOUR CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

bypass the Emergency Room at any time is of the essence for the best of the five STHS hospitals and are outcome. admitted to a hospital room directly Our final stop of this excursion was or receive treatment by the advanced at a festive holiday reception held at care facility. Our resort communities the Nueva Santander Gallery, where really appreciate these off-site STHS showed their appreciation to facilities, which handle quite a few the 1st Responders with appetizers, of our residents’ health care needs drinks, and gifts. The holiday mixer while in the Valley. The STHS also included doctors, executives, and caters to department Veterans for h e a d s emergency from the care, as well numerous as accepting S T H S Canadian facilities we insurance. toured and All aboard who, indeed, the STHS d e f i n e m o t o r healthcare. coach for a The 1st drive into Responders M c A l l e n , McAllen Heart Hospital, where we toured the Emergency enjoyed this for a tour of and Cardiac Catheterization departments. opportunity the McAllen to tour Heart Hospital Emergency all the facilities, meet the STHS Department. The McAllen Heart staff, and take home a folder full Hospital has excellent statistics for of information on all of the benefits their efficient care of cardiac patients, of each location. The speakers from arrival to cardiac catheterization who joined us for each segment and further cardiac care. This is of the drive provided exceptional extremely important for the patient information to assist our residents in because time is heart muscle lost. In their healthcare needs. • the care of strokes and heart attacks,

December 23, 2015 • • • Welcome

Home WINTER TEXAN • • • your official connection to the rio grande valley

www.welcomehomergv.com • • • December 23, 2015

PSJA Students Share the Joy of Christmas with San Juan Nursing Home Residents

Special to Welcome Home RGV

Potluck Possibilities: Great Food To Share

If you’re looking for an easy but

an effort to spread joy this holiday season, a group of Pharr-San Juan-Alamo ISD (PSJA) students from Raul Yzaguirre Middle School in San Juan donated approximately 30 handmade scarves to residents at the San Juan Nursing Home Friday, December 11. The San Juan Nursing Home is a faith-based nonprofit organization that ministers and cares for senior citizens and disabled individuals. As part of the school’s Helping Hands Knitting Club, each of the 25 students participating donated a scarf to a resident at the nursing home. According to Sahara Hedrick, a Spanish teacher and sponsor of the student organization, the students were happy to light up the holidays for the nursing home residents. “I was speechless,” said Hedrick of their donation. “It was very rewarding

to see them smile. You could see it in their faces that they felt loved.” Priscilla Luevano, a 7th grade student, was happy to participate and give back to her community during this Christmas season. “I felt very emotional and happy to be doing this for them,” said Luevano. “It’s awesome that something small makes someone smile. You don’t have to go all out; just make something from your heart.” In addition to donating scarves next year, Hedrick said the club plans to knit beanies for kids with cancer. According to the teacher, the donations serve as a meaningful experience for her students. “I am proud of each of my students for donating their time,” shared Hedrick with a smile. “More than a lesson of knitting, this was a lesson of giving.” •

delicious recipe to take to your park’s potluck dinners or anywhere else people gather to enjoy great food, this is what you’ve been waiting for. This dish has almost ZERO effort to prepare--just use the can opener, a knifem and a can of cooking spray. It’s the ultimate comfort food that will have people asking you for the recipe. The recipe comes from Kay Clayton of Grinnell, Iowa, who wishes she was a Winter Texan! •

by Sandy Olson

Kay’s Mac ‘n Cheese ‘n Corn Serves 16 • 2 cans (15 oz. each) whole kernel corn, drained • 2 cans (15 oz. each) creamed corn • 1 cup real butter, cold and cubed • 1 pound Velveeta Queso Blanca (or the hot and spicy style Velveeta if you like some heat in your food) • 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni • Salt and pepper to taste Spray the inside of your crock pot to make cleanup easier. Combine all the ingredients in the pot and stir. Set on HIGH and cook for 45 minutes. Stir the mixture, put the cover back on, and cook for an additional 30 minutes. Reduce heat to LOW and cook for 3-4 hours. The recipe can be doubled for a large party or halved to serve a family. Sandy Olson, lifelong foodie, restaurant reviewer, cooking teacher. Summer Iowan; Winter Texan. You can contact Sandy at midwestfoodie@gmail.com.

Yahooooo! Meet You Soon... Cowboy Chicken with

Paul Chilton

a-hoooo....I just got back from the ranch! At least I think I did. My companion and I were two buckaroos who just ate lunch at a place called Cowboy Chicken! They serve woodfired rotisserie chicken. It was the best chicken I ever tasted this side of the Rio Grande. Moist and all natural, it just about melts in your mouth. The seasoned chicken skin is so tasty I ate every bit of it. It is hand-rubbed, and the spices, which are a family secret, will blow you away. The first thing you notice when you enter the restaurant are the beautiful hens going round a spit behind a

glass-walled, brick rotisserie, the juices dripping with each turn. Partner, it is one beautiful sight! You can order a half chicken, a quarter, or just a piece, depending on how hearty your appetite is. You won’t believe the sides. Each one is delicious. Mac-and-cheese, twice-baked potatoes, ranchero beans, sweet potatoes… and the creamed spinach is the best. The mac-and-cheese is baked so it is even more special. There are salads and many other sides. If you don’t feel like chicken, try the chicken enchiladas. They are topped with a tomatillo sour cream sauce. My companion had them and said they were delicious! They also have several types of chicken sandwiches for the smaller appetite. We had to have dessert because you can get peach or apple crumb cobbler, as well as brownies or freshly baked cookies. The peach cobbler was so good, it tasted like my granny’s. They have the most extensive catering menu. All the goodies are available at reasonable prices. A

family meal is offered, as well as catering for a large or small party-perfect for the holiday season. They also deliver. Open since 1981, Cowboy Chicken has been cooking these fine meals for many years! Cowboy Chicken is located at 1020 Nolana in McAllen. Their phone number is 956-686-7777, and they’re open from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday-Wednesday and 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Thursday-Saturday. You can reach them online at cowboychicken. com. Well, my fellow gastronomic buddies, if you want some great

eating and a little fun, too, drop in at Cowboy Chicken. Your taste buds will sing, and you won’t have any chores. The ranch hands will do it all for you. All I can say is, “I hope to meet you soon at Cowboy Chicken!” • Paul Chilton is a Winter Texan who hails from Naperville, Illinois. He and his wife enjoy dining out and tasting different dishes the Valley has to offer. He looks forward to sharing his love for food and his experiences meeting others through this weekly article. You can contact Paul via email at Paul_chilton1@yahoo.com.

December 23, 2015 • • • Welcome

From the Inside, Out

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Sesame Snow Pea and Asparagus Salad

Submitted by Nancy Hutchins

by Marge Flados

This just happens to be my favorite

holiday, and it has nothing to do with receiving gifts. It was special when I was a kid, and it is special now when I can see my little great grandchildren wide-eyed and breathless about the family’s activities, traditional and non-traditional. I always hide a ceramic pickle in the branches of the Christmas tree, and the little people in the family try to be the first to find it. Through the years, we have gone through several pickles for they seem to have a short shelf life. We are all aware that the reason for the season is to celebrate the birth of Jesus, and in the Christian cultures, we should make a special effort to impress this on the young people for whom we provide an example. It is easy to forget and become immersed in the eating and partying that goes along with this special holiday. In South Texas, there are some things we must forego: cutting our own tree, playing in the snow or building a Christmas snowman, bundling up in warm red plaids and boots, burning the fireplace each day, and being in a house that smells of evergreen boughs. But we try! Since my elegant pre-lighted Christmas tree cannot smell good on its own, I buy evergreen cuttings and candles to supply that wonderful wintry Christmas smell. I know someone who turns her thermostat down to 65 during Christmas so she can burn her fireplace and bundle up in Christmas woolies. We do have a cold snap or two during the winter, but it rarely lasts long enough to justify owning clothes for cold weather or having a fireplace, for that matter. A few years ago, at the church

Marge Flados

school Christmas program, there was the sweetest manger scene presented by the pre-kinder group. My little great granddaughter was an angel with wings in full spread. During the tableau, a little classmate wanted to be closer to the Baby Jesus and pushed her to one side. He shouldn’t have done that. One, it was not polite, and two, this particular granddaughter gives new meaning to the word “feisty.” He pushed. She pushed. Faster than anyone could say, “OneMississippi, two-Mississippi” it accelerated into a competition of flying fists and feet. Two angels were duking it out in front of teachers and parents. What a scene that was! I love Christmas because my family is around me, and there is a palpable awareness of the love that emanates from our hearts for family and friends. We feel deep gratitude for a faith that sustains us, a church in which we are free to worship, the security of living in a nation of laws, food, shelter, and the opportunity to work and/or educate ourselves and our children. Oh, so many blessings to warm our hearts during this most sacred of all seasons. Thank you, Lord. May God’s angels watch over you and those you love, now and always. • M. Flados is a resident of Harlingen and can be reached at nflados@rgv.rr.com

Sesame Snow Pea and Asparagus Salad

Upon

special request by Kristi (WHRGV), Nancy Hutchins from Winter Ranch submitted this recipe for Sesame Snow Pea and Asparagus Salad. Nancy included this note: “It is from The South Beach Diet Cookbook by Arthur Agatston, MD, lest you think it is my own creation!!” Thanks, Nancy! •

Snow peas and sesame are a natural combination. Adding fresh asparagus makes for a very elegant and classy salad. Serve this alongside a main dish, or enjoy it as a light lunch. • 1 ½ cups cooked brown rice • 2 tablespoons canola oil • 2 teaspoons sesame oil • 3 tablespoons light soy sauce • ½ pound snow peas, trimmed and cooked • ½ pound fresh asparagus, trimmed and cooked • 3 tablespoons sesame seeds, toasted • 3 scallions, sliced • ¼ teaspoon crushed red-pepper flakes In a large serving bowl, toss the rice with the canola oil, sesame oil, and soy sauce. Stir in the snow peas, asparagus, and sesame seeds and toss to combine. Sprinkle with the scallions and red-pepper flakes. Makes 6 servings. Per Serving: 239 calories, 9 g fat, 1 g saturated fat, 6 g protein, 31 g carbohydrate, 5 g dietary fiber, 0 mg cholesterol, 314 mg sodium

www.welcomehomergv.com • • • December 23, 2015

The Value of Counting Birds by John Brush, Naturalist at Quinta Mazatlan

There

are millions of birders around the world, especially in western countries like the United States. In 2011, there were an estimated 47 million birders in the U.S. alone. These millions of birders do what all birders do: find birds. But they don’t just find birds; they oftentimes keep careful notes of where they saw birds and how many of each bird they saw, and then they share this information with other birders. There are several long-standing projects that serve as excellent examples of how dedicated and involved birders are but also help to show why counting birds is important. The Breeding Bird Survey is one such program and is run by the U.S. Geological Survey. But since it’s getting close to Christmas, the example I’ll use is the Christmas Bird Count. The Christmas Bird Count was started exactly 115 years ago on Christmas Day by an ornithologist (a scientist who studies birds) named Frank M. Chapman. He was part of the Audubon Society, a nonprofit environmental organization. That year, he decided not to partake in the traditional holiday hunt of that era, due to declines in bird populations. Rather, he decided to simply count the birds instead – the thrill of the hunt--but the birds left unharmed. These organized Christmas Bird Counts have happened every year, and we have several of them right here in the Rio Grande Valley. I usually try to participate in one or two a year (they’re not all on Christmas Day or on the same day) and always have a good time. I usually find myself counting birds for days afterwards without even realizing it. I’ll find myself thinking, there goes another five grackles or three more Harris’s Hawks, yes! And that’s my first reason for why we should count birds – it is fun. However, perhaps the most significant reason to count birds is that these long-term projects help scientists keep track of what is happening in the bird world. We can learn whether certain bird species are declining and how fast. This helps conservationists work toward understanding what is causing the

The Christmas Bird Count (CBC) is one of the longest-running citizen science projects in existence; it actually started in 1900 and is still going strong. John Brush, naturalist at Quinta Mazatlan, counts birds at the McAllen Wing of the World Birding Center and other locations around the Valley. Join us on our weekly guided Bird Walks, Tuesdays and Saturdays at 8 a.m. at Quinta Mazatlan in McAllen.

declines and how they can work to fix it. Maintaining healthy bird communities is important for having healthy ecosystems, which provide us with the food, water, and many other ecosystem services we need. I encourage you to explore more on ecosystem services (just fire up the old search engine) because it is truly amazing to look deeper into how important healthy ecosystems are. Another reason to count (and share your observations) is the sense of community. There is a burgeoning community of people in the Valley who love to view wildlife and share their excitement with others, taking time to assist with any sort of wildlife identification and sharing information on neat places to go. If you find yourself interested in any aspect of nature--whether it’s the beauty of birds or the smallest insect or the most subtle flower-there is a place for you. I encourage you to visit any of the World Birding Centers, wildlife refuges, and nature centers – there are birds to count, and a wonderful community (not just of people) to meet. •

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www.welcomehomergv.com • • • December 23, 2015

Give the Best Gift to Your Spouse and Children: Your Health Special to Welcome Home RGV

While South Texas residents and

winter visitors have been busy getting gifts for their loved ones, a local doctor suggests that the best gift we could give to our family this holiday season is to take care of our health. Dr. Usman Sheriff, a cardiologist in Harlingen, said many people, while rushing from store to store, may also wish to consider using some time during the holiday season to have their blood pressure and blood sugar checked – or to have a stress test or other screening if they already have risk factors for heart disease. “These days leading up to the new year may actually be a good time to go to a doctor and get tested and take stock of how you are doing with your health,” Dr. Sheriff said. Wrapping and giving gifts is a good thing to do during the holidays, he said. “But we shouldn’t lose sight of the fact that the best gift you can give your family is your health, so you can be around to celebrate the holidays a few more years with your loved ones,” Dr. Sheriff added. Patients may wish to consider investing in getting their cholesterol checked – or getting a complete “lipid panel” at a laboratory, such as the Valley Baptist Community Reference Lab, so the patients “know their numbers” as far as heart health. Dr. Sheriff said patients who already have high blood pressure or diabetes may wish to get blood work or a screening, such as a carotid artery screening or abdominal aorta ultrasound, to see if there are blockages in their blood vessels.

Dr. Usman Sheriff, a cardiologist in Harlingen, reminds Valley residents and Winter Texans to be mindful of their health amid the hustle and bustle of the holiday season.

“This is to see how your body is doing on the inside,” Dr. Sheriff said. “If you have blockages, early detection and treatment could spare you from possibly suffering a lifethreatening heart attack or stroke later on.” With plenty of food being consumed at holiday parties, sometimes it’s not easy to tell the difference between simple “heartburn” or gastric reflux and chest pain which could be a symptom of serious heart problems. Dr. Sheriff said if patients are older and have risk factors, they should take a serious look and follow-up with

their doctor if they have a burning sensation or discomfort in the chest. “Heart disease can mimic the symptoms of reflux,” Dr. Sheriff added. “It is best to go the doctor and get tested if you are at risk.” In women, symptoms of heart disease may not be so obvious. In place of severe chest pain, a woman may have pain in the upper back, jaw, or arm … or just a sensation of weakness and feeling tired, Dr. Sheriff said. The physician may wish to order an echocardiogram, stress test, or nuclear heart scan to check the heart and blood vessels, he added. Dr. Sheriff – who did his cardiology training in some of the most prestigious institutions in the country, including Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles and the Scripps Clinic and Sharp Memorial Hospital in San Diego, California -- noted that Rio Grande Valley residents have special risks, with the Valley having among the highest rates in the nation for diabetes and obesity. “Diabetes is the king of all diseases,” Dr. Sheriff said, noting that complications of diabetes can include heart disease, lack of circulation in the legs leading to tragic amputations of a foot or leg, kidney failure requiring the patient to be on dialysis, and blindness. Fighting obesity is especially difficult given that so many holiday celebrations center around food. Dr. Sheriff advises his patients “not to slack off” when limiting salt and sugar, even during the holidays.

“Remember what kind of diet you are supposed to be on,” he added. “Slacking off a couple of weeks during the holidays could undo all the good work you have done for five to six months with diet and exercise. Patients should have their height and weight checked to see what their body mass index (BMI) is – and do their best to keep their BMI as low as possible.” Of course, patients can also take care of their health by staying away from smoking and soft drinks – Dr. Sheriff said a can of coke has so much sugar that you would have to run on a treadmill for an hour to burn it off. He suggests patients meet with their doctor to take “an audit” of their health at the end of the year and to write down some resolutions for the new year – such as a resolution to lose 10 or 12 pounds in the new year or to start walking or jogging three or four times a week. “Taking care of our health is a gift that our family will value and cherish more than any material thing we can give them,” he added. For more information on prevention and treatment of heart disease, please consult your physician and visit www. ValleyBaptist.net/medical-services/ cardiovascular. Valley residents and Winter Texans who need a referral to a doctor or specialist may call the Valley Baptist physician referral line at 1-888-902-5433 or search online at www.ValleyBaptist.net/patientsservices/online-services/find-aphysician. •

Activity Directors Plan Exciting Events This Season Special to Welcome Home RGV

Activity Directors from across the

Rio Grande Valley met at 1:00 pm on December 17 at Alamo Palms Resort in Alamo, Texas for the Rio Grande Valley Activity Director Association meeting. There were approximately 40 parks represented. The Association’s Christmas Party will be held at Bentsen Grove Resort in Mission on Friday, December 19 with dinner at 6 pm followed by a show at 7:00 pm. The theme for the dinner will be Hawaiian. January 13, 2016 the Entertainers Showcase will be held at Park Place Resort in Harlingen and on January 21, 2016 the Entertainers Showcase will be held at Mission Bell Resort in Mission. Both showcases start promptly at 1:00 pm and are only open to the Activity Directors from across the Valley. Tickets are required.

The February meeting of the Association will be held at Casa del Valle Resort in Alamo, Texas. Activity Directors are asked to bring craft items that their crafters make to share ideas with the other parks. The Activity Directors Association meets 3 times each season on the 3rd Thursday at 1:00 pm in the months of November, December and February. The Entertainers Showcases are held during the month of January. Next season the November meeting will be held at Mission West in Mission, the December meeting at VIP La Feria West in La Feria and the February meeting at Paradise Resort in Pharr. If you would like more information on the Activity Directors Association contact Linda Miller, Secretary at Alamo Rec-Veh Park or call her at 956-783-5440. •

December 23, 2015 • • • Welcome

Home WINTER TEXAN • • • 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. •

SEE YOUR COUPON HERE!

www.welcomehomergv.com • • • December 23, 2015

• • • RECIPECONNECTION with Executive Chef Bettina Tolin • • • • • • • •

Sweet & Savory 1 large egg white 2 cups unsalted pecan halves 2 cups unsalted roasted cashews 1/2 cup sugar 1 tablespoon ground cumin 3/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon Kosher salt Bettina Tolin is a graduate of Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts in Austin, Texas. She has cooked in the kitchens of the Ritz-Carlton Amelia Island, Florida. She is currently the Executive Chef and General Manager at Marcello’s Italian Restaurant and Bar in Port Isabel, Texas.

Cocktail Nuts

Preheat the oven to 250 degrees F. Beat the egg white with 1 tablespoon water in a large bowl until foamy. Add the nuts, sugar, cumin, cayenne, cinnamon and salt and mix well. Spread the mixture evenly on a parchment-lined baking sheet pan. Bake about 40 minutes, until the nuts are mostly dry but still slightly tacky. Remove the nuts from the oven and toss around on pan. Reduce the temperature to 200 degrees F and

return the nuts to the oven. Bake another 30 more minutes or until crisp. Use a spatula to loosen the nuts from the baking sheet and cool completely on the pan. Serve to guests in small stylish bowls along side your favorite cocktails!

Bon Appetit!

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December 23, 2015 • • • Welcome

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