GOLF ANYONE?
Tee Time in the RGV features Harlingen Country Club!
UPCOMING EVENTS!
Check out our weekly listings of what’s happening in the RGV!
RECIPE CONNECTION!
Executive Chef Bettina Tolin shares a recipe that will make you smile!
Welcome Home See review on page 35.
See calendar on page 5.
VOLUME 1 • ISSUE 13 • January 20, 2016
Try her recipe on page 43.
®
WINTER TEXAN
• • • your official connection to the rio grande valley • • •
SPI Kite Fest: It’s back... Special to Welcome Home RGV
The festival continues Saturday and Sunday (February 6 and 7) when the festival moves outdoors from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on the flats just north of the Convention Centre. Several kite fliers from all over the United States are scheduled to bring their magnificent ‘show kites’ that will be on display throughout the day. If you can imagine it ~ you just might see it floating in the air ~ and many measuring more than 150-feet in length.
What
fun it has been seeing so many of you out and about over the last few weeks. I especially love hearing how much you enjoy reading this newspaper! At Welcome Home, RGV, we have a passion for serving our Winter Texan friends and local retirees. We’re officially celebrating eight years in business and have no intention of slowing down. For those of you who knew us in the very beginning, we are who we are today because of your comments, kind words, suggestions, and, most of all, your zest for life. It is an honor to be of service to you, whether you are here for a short time, or you’ve decided to make the Rio Grande Valley your permanent home, or you’ve lived here all your life--like me. I look forward to seeing all of you out and about for many years to come! We have learned so much from all of you, from the importance of finding balance in our lives to how to stop and enjoy the moment. And it’s OK to stop what you’re doing and dance like no one is watching. My personal favorite is that if you do just that, you can burn countless calories in the dog days of summer. You have so much to share, and we are all ears. • We’re just connecting the dots,
Kristi
. . . and you aren’t going to want
to miss it! After only two short years in ‘retirement,’ SPI Kite Fest is being revived for 2016. The festival that started out as a mere ‘fun fly’ and grew to be recognized as Kite Festival of the Year in 2010 by Kite Trade Association International is back and is looking like it will be bigger and better than ever. On February 5, 6, and 7, SPI Kite Fest will return to South Padre Island. The festival will kick off Friday evening with the Indoor Kite Exhibition to be held at the South Padre Island Convention Centre from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Performances by internationally known kite fliers such as John Barresi, Lisa Willoughby, Scott Weider, and Paul LaMasters will keep you in awe as they slide and glide their choreographed routines to a variety of musical interludes. Tickets for the Indoor Kite Exhibition are $6 per person and can be purchased in advance at B&S Kites.
No kite fest is complete without the mesmerizing performances of individual, as well as team, performances. For the revival of SPI Kite Fest, we are thrilled to have three kite teams attending ~ John Barresi is back with his all-new Team Kitelife, consisting of John (Portland, OR), Scott Benz (Jacksonville, FL), Eli Russell (Portland, OR) and Brett Marchel (Harbor Springs, MI). The New England-based Team RevRiders consisting of Scott Weider (Warwick, RI), Paul LaMasters (Germantown, MD), James Fletcher (Baltimore, MD) and Jim Cosca (Fort Washington, MD) will make their first-ever SPI Kite Fest debut; and Team End of the Line from Austin will be back, as well. Completing the
performance roster will be Lisa and Ian Willoughby from Surfcity, NJ, as well as several ‘Winter Texans’ who have found they have not only a passion for ‘kiteflying’ but a talent for performing, as well. Admission for the outdoor event is free. So . . . let’s make South Padre Island your destination for the first weekend in February. For more information contact B&S Kites at (956) 761-1248, by email at bskites@hotmail.com,on our website at www.spikitefest.com, or by visiting the SPI Kite Fest event page on Facebook. We hope to see you there! •
A SPECIAL THANK YOU TO OUR 2015-2016 SEASON SPONSORS
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January 20, 2016 • • • Welcome
Home WINTER TEXAN • • • your official connection to the rio grande valley
It’s Time for the 15th Annual Comfort House Walkathon! Special to Welcome Home RGV
Lace
up your tennis shoes and join us Saturday, February 20, at Doc Neuhaus Park (across from Comfort House on Dallas Avenue) in McAllen. This fundraiser is dedicated to the memory of our past residents and allows us to continue to provide our care at no charge to our residents and their families. We invite everyone to walk, jog, or run for fun! We encourage you to also support Comfort House with its ongoing ministry of love and compassion for the terminally ill and their families by collecting pledges to help raise funds. You may assemble a walking team to represent your loved one, family, business, or organization and share this fundraising campaign with others on our behalf. It is our mission to continue this service that began 26 years ago,
Welcome Home
throughout the Rio Grande Valley, and we rely on the generosity of individuals such as you for support. We ask that you make a commitment to join us for our 15th Annual Walkathon, alongside our staff, board of directors, and families of current and past residents. We are asking for sponsorship and monetary donations to support this great cause. We are also extending an invitation for your business or organization to have a booth (table, tent, banner, etc.) at the event and help us bring awareness to Comfort House Hospice Care. Sponsorship forms must be submitted by February 12 to be included in media recognition. Donation/pledge envelopes can be mailed, dropped off at Comfort House, or brought to the park with you the day of the event. Let’s do this for Comfort House! •
Weekly e-Blasts
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WINTER TEXAN
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!
your official connection to the rio grande valley
Publisher Kristi Collier
kristi@welcomehomergv.com
Accounting Sharon Flores
sharon@welcomehomergv.com
Administration Amie Gray
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Colette Brookins
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Sales & Marketing Cheryl Palacios
cheryl@welcomehomergv.com
Marie Sanchez
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Communications Director Matt Davis matt@welcomehomergv.com
1st Responder Coordinator Rita Huether rita@welcomehomergv.com
Activity Coordinator Fran Adams
Pharr Fire Department Collects Donations for Hungry Families Special to Welcome Home RGV
Thank
fran@welcomehomergv.com
Editor Chris Ardis
news@welcomehomergv.com
Graphic Design Jenny R Carpenter silentBYTES design
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Welcome Home
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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.
you to the Pharr Fire Department for their efforts in collecting $6,291.70 during the Fillthe-Stocking Campaign in December. The Pharr Fire Department asked local drivers along popular Pharr intersections for monetary donations during the weeks before Christmas. “We thank the Pharr Fire Dept. for their help,” Terri Drefke, FBRGV CEO, said. “They helped spread holiday cheer and continue to protect Pharr as first responders. Thank you!” For more information, contact Omar I. Rodriguez, manager of
communication and advocacy, at 956-904-4514 or via email at omarir@foodbankrgv.com. •
Welcome
Home RGV has three ways to join the conversation on Facebook. Our WHRGV page is dedicated to community events and information that will appeal to people of all ages. Our Winter Texan page is more specific to our Winter Texan target market. Finally, our latest addition is our Winter Texans RGV group. Member parks and business partners can send event fliers to us at news@welcomehomergv.com, and we will be happy to post them on our social media sites any time! Perks for Partners! •
www.facebook.com/whrgv www.facebook.com/wintertexan www.facebook.com/groups/wintertexansrgv
www.welcomehomergv.com • • • January 20, 2016
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Cooking Up Some Nostalgia Special to Welcome Home RGV
Magic Valley Men of A-Chord: Bringing Home the Trophy of Sound
by Cynthia Baldwin
Many
people, when they have a hobby or do a leisurely pastime, like to bring home a trophy of sorts. For hunters, it may be something to put on their wall. For the Men of A-Chord, namely Dennis Bush, a 16year member, it is “bringing a chord together.” He calls it the trophy of sound, which is not easy to achieve, yet the Men of A-Chord make it seem second nature. Their hobby is officially known as The Barbershop Harmony Society, which includes such honorary members as the Osmond Brothers, Dick Van Dyke, and Bill Gaither. These men of accord, or A-Chord, pride themselves on the Barbershopstyle music they sing during their hour-long performances. The difference is that they are a chorus, not a choir, and they perform acapella (without music). Magic Valley Men of A-Chord consists of approximately 60 gentlemen from various areas of the United States and provinces of Canada; only a few of the members are Valley natives. They sing at many mobile home parks throughout the Rio Grande Valley and are known for their red vests and black bow ties. “I like the slower ballads, but many of the singers, along with the audience, prefer the more upbeat tunes,” said Jerry Bowman, a member for eight or nine years and a Michigan native. Bowman believes it is because audiences love watching the members sing with the accompanying choreography. It’s obvious that even during a rehearsal these men enjoy singing and having fun, whether executing choreography or not. Both Bush and Bowman found it difficult to name one of their favorite songs. Bush noted that one of his favorite tunes they are practicing is what they call the “Dream Song,” a version of Mama Cass Eliot’s “Dream a Little Dream.” Other songs in their catalogue include “Seventy Six Trombones” from The Music Man and
with Katie Couric
Chocolate Coconut Kisses (A Couric Family Recipe) • 1 can Eagle brand condensed milk • 1 can Bakers moist coconut • 4 squares Bakers semi-sweet chocolate melted Mix all together Drop on greased tin Bake for 350 for 15 minutes
The Magic Valley Men of A-Chord rehearsing for the start of their 2016 season of singing.
“I’ll Fly Away” (A.E. Brumley). Their repertoire also includes “You’re a Grand Old Flag,” “In the Still of the Night,” “This Little Light of Mine,” and the “Beer Barrel Polka.” The group originated in McAllen in 1992 with about eight members and has grown steadily since. They perform an average of 10 concerts per year and are always eager to book more shows. Bowman is eager to boast how the Quartet (a subset of the group) and the entire chorus have been to various businesses and high schools to sing the National Anthem, amongst other songs. Men of A-Chord has also hosted singing workshops for students at various high schools across the Valley. While Bush has been singing Barbershop melodies for at least 45 years, he stresses that all one needs is to “like to sing and carry a tune.” Their brochure furthers this point: “To join our group, you don’t need to be famous but you must love to sing harmoniously.” Rehearsals are from 2-4 p.m. Tuesdays at St. Mark United Methodist Church, 301 Pecan Boulevard in McAllen. Their next performance, their second for this season, is Sunday, January 24, at 2:00 p.m. at the Mission Bell RV Resort in Mission. For further information on how to join Magic Valley Men of A-Chord or to book a concert, contact George Gay at 319-331-7991 or visit www. barbershoptx.com for updates on their 2016 concert schedule. •
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. •
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January 20, 2016 • • • Welcome
Home WINTER TEXAN • • • your official connection to the rio grande valley
MAKING CONNECTIONS
Nonprofit Spotlight: Keep McAllen Beautiful, Inc. Special to Welcome Home RGV
Nonprofit Name: Keep McAllen Beautiful, Inc. Address: 4101 N. Bentsen Road, McAllen Email: kmb@mcallen.net Phone Number: 956-681-4562 Website: www.keepmcallenbeautiful.org Who is the executive director? Ms. Chris Lash How and when did your organization begin and who does it serve? Keep McAllen Beautiful (KMB) has been in existence since 1976 and began as an advisory board to help educate the public regarding litter awareness and environmental preservation. Through the help of volunteers from all over the RGV, litter cleanup projects and beautification projects have been accomplished in an effort to help keep McAllen a beautiful place to live, work, and play.
What are the hours of operation? Hours of operation are Monday-Friday 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. What kind of donations does your nonprofit organization need? Donations to assist with some of our projects would be welcome. Items such as paint, paint supplies, water, soda, chips, and gloves would help in realizing these projects.
What kind of volunteer opportunities do you have for Winter Texans, Valley retirees, and others in our community? We have opportunities for helping with litter cleanups, educating the public regarding recycling at the schools, and special events. They can also assist with tours at the Recycling Center.
Do you have any upcoming events you would like Welcome Home RGV readers to know about? Keep McAllen Beautiful hosts an annual fundraiser to help establish a dedicated tree fund. The event features a 5K, 10K, Fun Walk, and 25-mile bike tour. Trees are also planted on that day. Welcome Home Winter Texan readers are encouraged to participate in this fun-filled event. The event takes place Saturday, March 12. •
www.welcomehomergv.com • • • January 20, 2016
DANCE ENTERTAINMENT & SHOWS
CALENDAR OF EVENTS WEEK OF
January 20 - January 26, 2016 WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 20, 2016 All You Can Eat Breakfast, 07:00 AM, Enchanted Valley Ranch, 7300 Monroe St., Mission. Biscuits & Gravy $3.00, fruit cup, orange juice and coffee included, for information call 956-519-8597. Breakfast at Palm Resaca, 07:00 AM, Palm Resaca Mobile Home Park, 100 Tangerine Blvd., Brownsville. Full breakfast - eggs, sausage, hash browns, beans, toast, and all you can eat pancakes! Coffee, tea, juice. Gate opens at 7:00 a.m. On the off-weeks of Paul’s Park in Brownsville. Welcome Winter Texans! For information call 956-546-7423. Craft Sale, 08:00 AM, Magic Valley RV Park, 2300 E. Business Hwy 83, Weslaco. 35 Vendors, all “new” products, coffee and donuts served, lunch served at 11:30. Bird & Nature Walk, 08:30 AM, McAl-
January 2016 January 21
Showcase Mission Bell, Mission
January 27
WinterFest Music Festival Schlitterbahn, SPI
January 28
Bentsen Palms RV Park, Mission
January 31
Big Valley RV Park, Donna
www.theballranch.com 325.698.2186 (Cell) 325.665.4754
JAM SESSIONS
MEALS
5
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. •
len 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. 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. For more information call (956) 681-3370. NRLCA Retired Carriers Annual Meeting, 09:00 AM, Ann’s Restaurant, 221 W. Business 83, San Juan. Registration 9:00 am, Meeting 9:30 am, Lunch 11:00 am, order off menu. Larry Waligo-
ra & Cameron Demi with the NRLCA Health Insurance will be guests. For information call 816-390-6379. RGVSA/TSSA Shuffleboard Tournament, 09:00 AM, Trails End RV Resort, 2001 S. Texas Blvd., Weslaco. Mixes doubles tournament. $6.00 entry fee per team. Free admission for spectators. Three day event with amateurs playing on Jan 19, experts on Jan 20, and finals on Jan 21(8:30 am to 12:00 noon). For information call 956-854-4075. Spring 2016 Workshop: Webelos Adventure in Space, 09:00 AM, International Museum of Art & Science, 1900 W. Nolana Ave., McAllen. Learn about how to design an experiment, launch a rocket, make a model of the solar system, and much more. This workshop meets activity badge requirements 1, 2, 3c, 3d, 3e, 3g. For information call 956-682-0123.
23rd Annual Winter Texan Expo, 09:00 AM, McAllen Convention Center, 700 Convention Center Blvd., McAllen. The Winter Texan Expo & Health Fair is a fun-filled, 2-day event held at the McAllen Convention Center January 19th & 20th from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM. In addition to offering top Entertainment Headliners for the enjoyment of our attendees, we are also featuring free admission, free health screenings, free information and plenty of Door Prizes. Come join the fun! Lots of information, entertainment, door prizes and free health screenings. (there is never a need to fast for any of the screenings). All Seniors are welcome. Bluegrass Jam, 09:00 AM, Bentsen Palm RV Park, 3501 N. Bentsen Palm Dr., Mission. Home made goodies and coffee served. For information call 218-525-5807.
SCHEDULE OF EVENTS CONTINUED ON PAGE 6 >>
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January 20, 2016 • • • 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 Winter Texan Orchestra, 09:00 AM, Tip O’Texas RV Resort, East Sioux Rd., Pharr If you play a musical instrument found in a Symphony Orchestra you are invited to consider the Winter Texan Orchestra. We rehearse on Wednesday mornings from 9:00 am to 11:00 am. Percussion and strings are especially needed but all are welcome. We welcome local musicians to join us for the season. Bob Seymour, Conductor at 317-626-6512 or 956-607-2696 or visit a rehearsal. Craft Show, 09:00 AM, Green Gate Grove, 700 N. Bentsen Palm Dr., Mission. Lunch served, for information call 956-581-2932. Project Insight Support Group, 10:00 AM, McAllen Public Library (Classroom 2), McAllen. This is an ongoing, weekly support group for survivors, caregivers and anyone else dealing with cancer. http://project-insight.org/ 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. “New Quilts from an Old Favorite 2015-
Nine Patch”, 10:00 AM, Harlingen Arts & Heritage Museum, 2425 Boxwood St., Harlingen. The 18 finalist & winning quilts from the annual contest sponsored by National Quilt Museum in Paducah, KY. The exhibit is brought to HAHM by the RGV Museum Association & sponsored by Janome America, Inc. and MODA Fashions. For information call 956-276-0027. Art Classes, 10:00 AM, Art Studio by Design, 722 N. Main St., McAllen. Weekly art classes opened to public. Classes offered in Painting, Drawing, Pottery Wheel and more. Call 956249-3534 for information or visit www.artstudiobydesign722.com. Business hours are 10AM - 5:30PM. 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. 3M Retirees Get Together, 11:00 AM, Victoria Palms RV Resort, 602 Victoria Palms Blvd., Donna. For information call, Louise 612-916-9236, Hartly 956-289-8261. Bring your friends all welcome. Attention Submarine Veterans, 11:00 AM, Junction Cafe, 11 S. Cage Blvd., Pharr. Rio Grande Valley Submarine Veterans, guests and friends are invited to the Junction Cafe at 11:00 AM every third Wednesday thru March for a luncheon and social gathering. It is located at the corner of Cage and Business 83 in Pharr. Keep a zero bubble and pressure in the boat. For more info contact Larry Weinfurter 715-305-0401. Entertainment w/Bernie & Red, 11:00 AM, McAllen Convention Center, 700 Convention Center Blvd., McAllen. Entertainment w/Jim Staton, 11:00 AM, Don-Wes Flea Market, N. Victoria Rd., Donna. For information call 620-229-4197. Native Plant Tour, 11:00 AM, McAllen Nature Center, 4101 W. Business 83, McAllen. Free Admission, 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. For information call 956-681-3333. 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 11:15am, turns and moves at 11:45am. For information call 956-783-4587. Intermediate Line Dance, 11:30 AM, Park Place Estates, 5401 W. Business 83, Harlingen. $2.00 pp. For information call 956-412-0375. Jam Lunch, 11:30 AM, Chimney Park RV Resort, 4224 S. Conway, Mission. Jam Lunch 11:30 am -12:30 pm, Jam from 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm, For information call 956-585-5061. 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 11:30am, 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. Live Music w/The Roger Kensation Band, 01:00 PM, Riverside Club, 214 Chimney Rd., Mission. For information call 956-581-1033. Round Dance, 01:00 PM, Lakewood RV Resort, 4525 Graham Rd., Harlingen. For information call 956-423-1170. Jam, 01:00 PM, Chimney Park RV Resort, 4224 S. Conway, Mission. For information call 956-585-5061. 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. Coffee and Lunch available. For information call 956-283-1771. 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 Place Estates, 5401 W. Business 83, Harlingen. Free Admission. Refreshments available, musicians by invitation. Open to the public. For information call 956-412-0375. Beginning Round/Trail Dance, 03:00 PM, Casa del Valle, 1048 N. Alamo Rd., Alamo. For information call 956-783-5008. Dance w/Ruthi, 03:00 PM, Louie’s Backyard, 2305 Laguna Blvd., South Padre Island. FREE Admission, Enjoy a beautiful afternoon at the bar overlooking the bay, for more information call 405-326-3829. Happy Hour w/Brenda Cohn, 03:00 PM, Snow to Sun RV Resort, 1701 N. International Blvd., Weslaco. Pass the Hat. BYOB. Free ice. For information call 620-441-1173. Happy Hour w/Lynn Dvorak, 03:30 PM, Paradise South RV Resort, 9099 N. Mile 2 West Rd., Mercedes. For more information call 402-640-4739. Pork Roast Dinner, 04:00 PM, Restful Valley Ranch, 7130 W. Expressway 83, Mission. Birch St., $7.00 pp For information call 956-519-8650. 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. Busi-
www.welcomehomergv.com • • • January 20, 2016
DANCE ENTERTAINMENT & SHOWS ness Highway 83, Donna. For information call 989-424-1299. Happy Hour, 05:00 PM, American Legion Post 37, 1305 E. Jasmine Ave., McAllen. $1.75 Domestic Beer, A.L.A. Tacos & Chalupas, for more information call 956-682-7841 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. Pot Luck, 05:00 PM, Lakewood RV Resort, 4525 Graham Rd., Harlingen. For information call 956-428-7116. Taco & Chalupa Dinner, 05:00 PM, American Legion Post 37, 1305 E Jasmine Ave., McAllen. For information call 956-682-7841. Entertainment w/Drifting Cowboy, 05:30 PM, American Legion Post 37, 1305 E. Jasmine Ave., McAllen. For more 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, FunN-Sun RV Resort, 1400 Zillock Rd., San Benito $2.00 pp. For information call 269-838-9519. Circle T Jam, 06:00 PM, Circle T RV Park, 1820 W. Clay Tolle St., Mission. For information call 920-905-3241, Chili dogs, hot dogs, and ice cream served from 4:30 to 5:45. Jam starts promptly at 6:00. Everyone is welcome. Coffee & cookies served. 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/Freddie & Sheila, 06:30 PM, Bit-O-Heaven RV & MH Park, 1051 W. Business Hwy 83, Donna. $6.00 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/Big John, 07:00 PM, Fiesta Village RV Park, 205 Stewart Rd., Mission. $5.00 pp. For more information call Jerry Russman @ 402-651-6666. 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/Richard Lynch, 07:00 PM, Sunshine RV Resort, 1900 Grace Ave., Harlingen. $7.00 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. Entertainment w/Bill Chrastil, 07:00 PM, Park Place Estates Resort, 5401 W. Business 83, Harlingen. $6.00 pp. For information call 956-412-0375. Entertainment w/Clarence Hayden, 07:00 PM, McAllen Mobile Park, 4900 N. McColl Rd., McAllen. $5.00 pp. For information call 956-682-3304. Entertainment w/Farnum Family, 07:00 PM, Restful Valley Ranch, 7130 W. Expressway 83, Mission. $7.00 pp. For information call 956-519-8650. Entertainment w/Goldwing Express, 07:00 PM, Paradise Park, Inc, 100 E. Hackberry Ave., McAllen. $6.00 pp. For information call 956-682-8081. Entertainment w/Johnny Ray Gomez, 07:00 PM, San Juan Gardens RV Resort, 9000 E. Business 83, San Juan. $6.00 pp. For information call 956-781-1082. Entertainment w/Kenny Hess, 07:00 PM, Victoria Palms RV Resort, 602 N. Victoria Rd., Donna. $10.00 pp, concessions available. BYOB. For information call 956-782-3263. Entertainment w/Leslie Blasing, 07:00 PM, Pine To Palm Resort Park, 802 S. International Blvd., Weslaco. $6.00 pp. Doors open at 6:00 pm. For information call 204-482-4408. Entertainment w/Mama’s Wranglers, 07:00 PM, Bentsen Grove Resort, 810 Bentsen Palm Dr., Mission. $7.00 pp. For information call 956-585-0703. Entertainment w/Williamson Branch, 07:00 PM, Countryside RV & MH Park, 100 N. Valley View Rd., Donna. $6.00 pp. For information call 918-916-0541. Concessions available. 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, JANUARY 21, 2016 Craft & Flea Market, 07:00 AM, Aladdin Villas, 1415 Aladdin Villas Blvd., Mission. Serving breakfast and a light lunch with some homemade yummy goodies. So join us! For information call 956-581-1288. Wood Carver’s Club, 08:00 AM, Nomad Shrine Club, 1044 W. Nolana Loop, Pharr. For information call 956-781-1986.
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Craft Fair, 08:00 AM, Seven Oaks Resort, 801 S. Inspiration Rd., Mission. Will include breakfast 7:30 am, Lunch 11:30 am. Yard sale & Bake sale. For information call 956-581-0068. RGVSA/TSSA Shuffleboard Tournament Finals, 08:30 AM, Trails End RV Resort, 2001 S. Texas Blvd., Weslaco. Mixed doubles tournament. $6.00 entry fee per team. Free admission for spectators. Three day event with amateurs playing on Jan 19, experts on Jan 20, and finals on Jan 21(8:30 am to 12:00 noon). For information call 956-854-4075. Volunteers in the Park, 08:30 AM, McAllen Nature Center, 4101 W. Business 83, McAllen. All equipment is provided; gloves are limited. Volunteers are encouraged to bring their own work gloves. Projects include weeding, watering, planting, raking, and more. Groups of 10 or more may call to schedule an afternoon or weekend volunteer day. For information call 956-681-3333. Peppermint Palace Country Jam, 09:00 AM, El Valle Del Sol/Luna, 2500 E. Business 83, Mission. For information call 956-585-5704.
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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. “New Quilts from an Old Favorite 2015Nine Patch”, 10:00 AM, Harlingen Arts & Heritage Museum, 2425 Boxwood St., Harlingen. The 18 finalist & winning quilts from the annual contest sponsored by National Quilt Museum in Paducah, KY. The exhibit is brought to HAHM by the RGV Museum Association & sponsored by Janome America, Inc. and MODA Fashions. For information call 956-276-0027. Art Classes, 10:00 AM, Art Studio by Design, 722 N. Main St., McAllen. Weekly art classes opened to public. Classes offered in Painting, Drawing, Pottery Wheel and more. Call 956249-3534 for information or visit www.artstudiobydesign722.com. Business hours are 10AM - 5:30PM. FREE Zumba Classes, 10:00 AM,
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January 20, 2016 • • • Welcome
Home WINTER TEXAN • • • your official connection to the rio grande valley
DANCE ENTERTAINMENT & SHOWS
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SCHEDULE OF EVENTS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 7 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 E. Loop 374, Palmview. $6.00pp. Couples may start at any time. For information call 956-585-5551. 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. Buckets of Fun: Slow & Fast - How Does it Move?, 10:00 AM, Quinta Mazatlan, 600 Sunset Dr., McAllen. Preschool children and their parents or grandparents will have BUCKETS OF FUN with hands-on, nature-inspired lessons filled with song, discovery, socializing, movement, and exploration! Please dress for outdoor activities.
$3.00 per adult, $2.00 per child. For more information call 956-681-3370. Chimney Park Blood Drive 10:30 AM, Chimney Park RV Resort, 4224 S. Conway, Mission. For information call 956-585-5061. 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! BYOTS! 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! 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 Ave., Weslaco. Pizza lunch served at 12:00 PM. Music 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm.
Coffee and donuts served at break, for information call 306-921-5199. Country Western Jam, 12:30 PM, Bentsen Grove Resort, 810 Bentsen Palm Dr., Mission. For information call 956-585-0703. Jam, 12:30 PM, Pharr South, 1402 S. Cage Blvd., Pharr. Lunch served at 11:15 am. For information call 956-787-7839. SPI Art Space Open Clay Class, 01:00 PM, Art Space, 1817 Padre Blvd., South Padre Island. $30 for the first hour. Any additional time is $5 per hour including the time spent glazing the item. Firing is free. For more information call 956-761-2112. 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. Live Music w/Al Mikesh, 01:00 PM, Riverside Club, 214 E. Chimney Rd., Mission. For information call 956-581-1033. Country Jam, 01:00 PM, Bluebonnet RV Resort, 3366 N. Bentsen Palm Dr., Mission. For information call 956-585-7630. Jam Session, 01:00 PM, W & I Resort, 206 S. Stewart Rd., Mission. Cookies, bars and popcorn will be served. All
jammers and listeners are welcome. For information call 956-585-6594. Minnesota Winnebago Club Luncheon, 01:30 PM, Mr. Gatti’s Pizza, 4100 N. 2nd St., McAllen. Minnesota Winnebago Club invites owners of Winnebago Industries products (and guests) to meet for lunch at 1:30 p.m. For information call 612-578-2854. Yoga, 01:30 PM, Paradise Resort Estates, 301 E. Hall Acres, Pharr. For information call 956-252-7568. 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. Entertainment w/Dixon & Company, 03:00 PM, Pecker’s Neighborhood Bar & Grill, 1600 S. Westgate Dr., Weslaco. For information call 956-226-3433. Happy Hour w/Andy & Brenda Coin, 03:00 PM, Snow to Sun RV Resort, 1701 N. International Blvd., Weslaco. Pass the Hat. BYOB. Free ice. For information call 620-441-1173. Can/Am Dance, 03:30 PM, Sunshine RV Resort, Grace Ave., Harlingen. For
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DANCE ENTERTAINMENT & SHOWS information call 956-425-7448. Casino Night for Mabel’s Clinic, 04:00 PM, Southern Comfort RV Resort, 1501 S. Airport Dr., Weslaco. $15.00 pp, fundraiser for Mabel’s Clinic. For information call 956-638-3158. Jam Dinner, 04:00 PM, Restful Valley Ranch, 7130 W. Expressway 83, Mission. Jam from 5:30 pm - 7:30 pm. For information call 956-519-8650. Thursday Night Dinner, 04:00 PM, Eldorado Acres RV Park, 610 N. FM 492, Mission. Grilled 1/3 lb Black Angus hamburger or Grilled Chicken Breast or Pork Loin sandwich, Potato Wedges, Lots of Fixings, Free ice Tea or Lemonade $5.50, Dessert available. 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. Conversational Spanish for Winter Texans, 05:00 PM, Mission / La Homa with 495. 2 hour weekly class. Conver-
sational results guaranteed! 8 weeks for $120.00 includes all materials and website and spouse can attend with you for FREE. Visit class website at “Conversational Spanish for Winter Texans.” Social time after class with Spanish speakers who are enrolled in Conversational English classes. For information call 956-681-6707. Happy Hour, 05:00 PM, American Legion Post 37, 1305 E. Jasmine Ave., McAllen. $1.75 Domestic draft, loaded tators, for more information call 956-682-7841. Loaded Tators Dinner, 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 956-519-8650. 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. Alfresco Weslaco Music & Art, 06:00 PM, Downtown Weslaco FEATURING: Marshall Law. Enjoy an evening
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of live jazz music, art displays, delicious food, sidewalk sales. and vendor booths in the heart of Downtown Weslaco on Texas Blvd. McAllen Food Festival, 06:00 PM, McAllen Convention Center, 700 Convention Center Blvd., McAllen. Call 956-682-2871 for more information. Chicken Fried Steak Dinner, 06:00 PM, Weslaco Elks Lodge, 201 S Border Ave., Weslaco. $9.00 a plate. For information call 956-968-7115. Nature Speaker Series: Ecological Roles & Significance of Palms, 06:00 PM, Quinta Mazatlan, 600 Sunset Dr., McAllen. Explore nature Thursday evenings with great speakers about everything from birds and Butterflies to culture and art of the Rio Grande Valley. $3.00 per person. For more information call (956) 681-3370. Grief Support Group Workshops, 06:30 PM, McAllen Medical Center. The UT Health Science Center Allograft Resources Bereavement Support Department invites the community to attend monthly grief support workshops, which focus on helping families that need support after losing a loved one or friend. The workshops are free and
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open to anyone in the community. You are asked to register in advance by calling 956-365-8650. 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. Painting Classes, 07:00 PM, Art Studio by Design, 722 N. Main St., McAllen. $35.00 pp. We furnish all supplies! All you have to do is come and join in on the fun! Bring your friends and your favorite snacks and beverages! Call 956-249-3534 for more information. Dance w/Golden Era, 07:00 PM, Pine To Palm Resort Park, 802 S. International Blvd., Weslaco. $7.50 pp. BYOB, Door Prizes, Doors open at 630 pm, Donations for ice and Popcorn. Soda available. For information contact dson224@mts.net Dance w/Leslie Blasing, 07:00 PM, Tropic Winds RV Resort, 1501 N. Loop 499, Harlingen. $8.00 pp. For information call 956-423-4020. Dance w/Ralph & The Cruisers, 07:00
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January 20, 2016 • • • Welcome
Home WINTER TEXAN • • • your official connection to the rio grande valley
DANCE ENTERTAINMENT & SHOWS
JAM SESSIONS
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SALES
SCHEDULE OF EVENTS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 9 PM, Victoria Palms RV Resort, 602 N. Victoria Rd., Donna. $10.00 pp. Concessions available, BYOB. For information call 956-782-3263. Dance w/Richard Lynch Band, 07:00 PM, Casa Del Sol MH/RV Park, 400 N. Val Verde Rd., Donna. $7.00 pp. For information call 956-464-9024. Dance w/Swing Street, 07:00 PM, Alamo Palms RV Park, 1341 W. Business 83, Alamo. For information call 956-787-8870. Dance w/Texas Country Band, 07:00 PM, Mission Bell RV Resort, 1711 E. Bus 83, Mission. For information call 956-585-4833. Entertainment w/Farnum Family, 07:00 PM, Eldorado Acres RV Park, Mission, 610 N. FM 492, Mission. $6.00 pp. For information call 956-581-6718. Entertainment w/Freddie & Sheila, 07:00 PM, Paradise Resort Estates, 301 E. Hall Acres Rd., Pharr. $7.00 pp. For information call 956-223-9359. Entertainment w/Gregg Jones, 07:00 PM, Bentsen Palm RV Park, 3501 N. Bentsen Palm Dr., Mission. $5.00 pp. For information call 956-585-9981. Entertainment w/John Sager, 07:00 PM, Holiday Village, 1501 N. Cage Blvd., Pharr. $7.00 pp. For informa-
tion call 956-787-9493. Entertainment w/William Florian, 07:00 PM, Winter Ranch RV Resort, 600 State Hwy 495, Alamo. $8.00 pp. For information call 956-781-1358.
FRIDAY, JANUARY 22, 2016 Pancake Breakfast, 07:30 AM, Fiesta Village RV Park, 205 S Stewart Rd., Mission. For more information contact Larry & Cheryl Meier @ 319-429-0523. Rancho Lomitas, 07:30 AM, Edinburg WBC, 714 Raul Longoria Dr., Edinburg. Rancho Lomitas, Travel with the EWBC staff to the Rio Grande City area and tour the brushland of Rancho Lomitas. Ranch owner and ethnobotanist, Benito Trevino, will lead the group around the scenic ranch and discuss how native plants have helped local people survive in our harsh environment. Also, discover the medicinal heritage of the Rio Grande Valley during this fascinating excursion. For information call 956-381-9922. Fee: $20 members (excludes winter membership), $25 non-members. Blood Drive, 08:30 AM, Chimney Park RV Resort, 4224 S. Conway, Mission.
Give the gift of Life! Donate your blood to save a life. Make an appointment by calling Park Office 956-858-5061. Walk-Ins are welcome! 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. Advanced Line Dance, 09:00 AM, Tropic Winds RV Resort, 1501 N. Loop 499, Harlingen. For information call 956-423-5484. 2016 Carving Show, 10:00 AM, Cielo Banquet Hall, 1101 E. FM 495, San Juan. 70 table of carvings, tool vendors and carving wood, carving demonstrations, hourly door prizes, lunch counter, donation, $3.00 pp or $5.00 for 2 people. Carving competition, 150 carvings. Rally On The Rio Woodcarving Seminar, Monday - Saturday- Saturday, January 25ft - 30th. Classes open to all carvers from beginners to experienced for information go to: www.rgvwoodcarvers.org, over 20 instructors, Classes in Caricature carving, Relief carving, Fish, Birds, Wood Burning, Canes and Walking sticks, Power carving and more 8:00 AM- 4:30 PM Monday Thru Friday Many two and Three day classes available. For information call 651-485-0580. Bible Study, 10:00 AM, Palm Gardens RV Park, 3401 W. Business 83, Harlingen. Coffee & Donuts served 9:15 am until 10:00 am. Rev. Don Hickman, BA&M.Div. Chaplain. 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. “New Quilts from an Old Favorite 2015Nine Patch”, 10:00 AM, Harlingen Arts & Heritage Museum, 2425 Boxwood St., Harlingen. The 18 finalist & winning quilts from the annual contest sponsored by National Quilt Museum in Paducah, KY. The exhibit is brought to HAHM by the RGV Museum Association & sponsored by Janome America, Inc. and MODA Fashions. For information call 956-276-0027. Art Classes, 10:00 AM, Art Studio by Design, 722 N. Main St., McAllen. Weekly art classes opened to public. Classes offered in Painting, Drawing, Pottery Wheel and more. Call 956-
249-3534 for information or visit www.artstudiobydesign722.com. Business hours are 10AM - 5:30PM. Night Club 2, 10:00 AM, Tip O’Texas RV Resort, 101 E. Sioux Rd., Pharr. For information call Bob Battaglia 972-220-9285. Square Dancing, 10:00 AM, Casa del Valle, 1048 N. Alamo Rd., Alamo. For information call 956-783-5008 History Tour of Quinta Mazatlan, 10:00 AM, Quinta Mazatlan, 600 Sunset, McAllen. $3.00 pp. Bring your Friends and tour one of the largest adobe homes in the state of Texas. Hear about the tales of the families that built and lived at Quinta Mazatlan for a total of 60 years before the City of McAllen purchased the estate and opened it in 2006 as a mansion with a mission. For Group of 15 or more please call to reserve a private tour! For information call 956-681-3370. West Coast Swing, 11:00 AM, Tip O’Texas RV Resort, 101 E. Sioux Rd., Pharr. For information call Bob Battaglia 972-220-9285. Friday Fish Fry, 11:00 AM, Riverside Club Bar & Grill, 214 E. Chimney Rd., Mission. Catfish, Cod, Shrimp or Combo Dinners with Baked Beans, Hush Puppies, Cole Slaw and French Fries. For information call 956-581-1033. Boat Ride/River Tour, 12:00 PM, Riverside Club, 214 E. Chimney Rd., Mission. For information call 956-581-1033. Country Jam Session, 12:00 PM, Casa Del Sol, 400 N. Val Verde Rd., Donna. Lunch available. For information call 956-464-2272. Country Jam, 12:30 PM, Trails End RV Resort, S Texas Blvd., Weslaco Lunch served from 11:30 - 12:15. Everyone welcome! For information call 956-351-5701. Overeaters Anonymous, 01:00 PM, McAllen Heart Hospital, 1900 S. D St., McAllen. Are you having problems with food? Come join us for an informative support group on how to help control your cravings. Pat 956-874-5041. Live Music w/The Hitman, 01:00 PM, Riverside Club, 214 E. Chimney Rd., Mission. For information call 956-581-1033. Round Dance, 01:00 PM, Lakewood RV Resort, 4525 Graham Rd., Harlingen. For information call 956-423-1170. Country Jam, 01:00 PM, McAllen Mobile Park, 4900 N. McColl Rd., McAllen. Dessert table will be provided. Jam, 01:00 PM, Trophy Gardens RV Resort, 800 Hwy 495, Alamo. For information call 956-685-5300. Open Country Jam, 01:00 PM, Split Rail RV Park, 513 N. Los Ebanos Rd, Mission. Come join us for all the good music, fellowship, and fun! Cookies and coffee served. For more information call: 956-585-8135.
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DANCE ENTERTAINMENT & SHOWS
JAM SESSIONS
Polka Jam, 01:00 PM, Enchanted Valley Ranch, 7300 Monroe St., Mission. Refreshments available at intermission. For information call 956-519-8597. Rock N Roll Jam, 01:00 PM, Green Gate Grove, 700 N. Bentsen Palm Dr., Mission. For information call 636-459-5458 or 319-795-8101. Variety Jam, 01:00 PM, Bentsen Palm RV Park, 3501 N. Bentsen Palm Dr., Mission. Homemade goodies and coffee served. For information call 218-585-5807. Specialty Swimwear, 01:00 PM, Country Sunshine RV Resort, 1601 S. Airport Dr., Weslaco. Main Hall. For information call 956-638-3158. Entertainment w/Farnum Family, 02:00 PM, Four Seasons RV Park, 126 Sunshine Circle, Zapata. $7.00 pp. For information call 956-765-4241. Friday Jam, 02:00 PM, Llano Grande Lake Park Resort, 2215 E. West Blvd., Mercedes. Happy Hour w/Ken Thompson, 03:00 PM, Snow to Sun RV Resort, 1701 N. International Blvd., Weslaco. Pass the Hat, BYOB. Free ice. For information call 620-441-1173. Entertainment w/Nashville Grande Ole Oprey, 03:30 PM, Victoria Palms RV Resort, 602 N. Victoria Rd., Donna $13.00 pp, $14.00 pp, $15.00 pp For information call 956-782-3263. Entertainment w/JC Bullock, 04:00 PM, South Padre Island KOA, 1 Padre Blvd., South Padre Island. For information call 515-570-5450. Happy Hour w/Rio Duo, 04:00 PM, Sunshine RV Resort, 1900 Grace Ave., Harlingen. For information call 956-425-7448. Spaghetti Dinner, 04:00 PM, Nomad Shrine Club, 1044 W. Nolana Loop, Pharr. $6.00 in advance, $10.00 at the door. For information call 956-781-1986. Jam Session, 04:30 PM, Hidden Valley Ranch, 7600 Long Dr., Mission. Refreshments at 4:30, Jam session at 5:30. For information call 956-580-4477. Chicken Strip Dinner, 05:00 PM, American Legion Post 37, 1305 E. Jasmine Ave., McAllen. $11 Domestic Bucket, Chicken strips, Meat Draw starts at 6:00. For more information call 956-682-7841. Sunset Yoga in the Park, 05:00 PM, 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 mat- intentional 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. For information call 956-681-3333. Friday Fish Fry, 05:30 PM, Weslaco Elks
tion call 956-787-6538. Dance w/Ralph & The Crusiers, 07:00 PM, Mission Bell RV Resort, 1711 E. Business 83, Mission. For information call 956-585-4833. Dance w/Richard Lynch Band, 07:00 PM, Country Sunshine RV Resort, 1601 S Airport Dr., Weslaco. $8.00 pp. For information call 956-638-3158. Dance w/Sipe & The Country Playboys, 07:00 PM, Quiet Village II, 215 S. Valley View Rd., Donna. $5.00 pp. For information call 956-464-7275. Dance w/SweetWater Band, 07:00 PM, Bit-O-Heaven RV & MH Park, 1051 W. Business Hwy 83, Donna. $6.00 pp, BYOB, Popcorn & Soda for sale. For information call 956-464-5191. Dance w/Texas Country Band, 07:00 PM, Fun-N-Sun RV Resort, 1400 Zillock Rd., San Benito. $5.00 pp. Call for information 956-399-5800. Dance w/The Agency, 07:00 PM, Tropic Star RV Resort, 1401 S. Cage Blvd., Pharr. Doors open @ 6:15.For information call 956-787-5773. Dance w/Walter Plant, 07:00 PM, Alamo Rose RV Park, 938 S. Alamo Rd., Alamo. $5.00 pp. Singles Welcome! Concessions available. For informa-
Lodge, 201 S. Border Ave., Weslaco. Cod combo $10.00 pp, Catfish combo $10.00 pp, Shrimp combo $10.00 pp. Plates include French fries, Hush puppies, Cole slaw, coffee or tea. For information call 956-968-7115. Friday Night Dinner Dance w/Jim Staton, 05:30 PM, American Legion Post 101, 417 S. Cage Blvd., Pharr. Shrimp, Fish, or Chicken Basket $5.50, Fish Plate - $7.00, Shrimp Plate - $8.00, Chicken Tender $7.00, Combination - $8.00, Small FF - $2.00, Small Onion Rings $1.50, Large Onion Rings - $2.50, all plates include cole slaw, french fries, or onion rings. For information call 956-787-7451. 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. Jam, 06:00 PM, Penitas RV Park, 304 Main St., across from Walmart, Penitas. For information call 956-581-9719. Night Hike, 06:15 PM, McAllen Nature Center, 4010 W. Business 83, McAllen. Enjoy an evening with the creatures of the night! Bring a flashlight, bug spray, and wear close-toed shoes. We’ll spend an hour slowly covering about 1/2 mile of trails, carefully and quietly looking for anything we might see along the path. We’ll look for spiders, bats, frogs, toads, scorpions, and nocturnal birds. DON’T FORGET A FLASHLIGHT! For information call 956-681-3333. Entertainment w/Rolando Reyes, 06:30 PM, 1015 RV Park, 1402 S Interntational Blvd., Weslaco. $6.00 pp. For information call 515-490-0418. Karaoke at Tip O’ Texas, 06:30 PM, Tip O’Texas RV Resort, 101 E. Sioux Rd., Pharr. $1.00 participation fee, Al Barnes Hall. For information call 956-787-6461. Dance w/Dennis Amundson Solitary Man, 07:00 PM, Citrus Valley RV Park, 2901 W. Highway 107, McAllen. $5.00 pp. For information call 970-222-6031. Dance w/Diego, 07:00 PM, Winter Ranch RV Resort, 600 Hwy 495, Alamo. $5.00 pp. For information call 956-783-4587. Dance w/Golden Era, 07:00 PM, Bentsen Grove Resort, 810 Bentsen Palm Dr., Mission. $5.00 pp. For information call 956-585-0703. Dance w/Johnny Ray Gomez, 07:00 PM, Park Place Estates Resort, 5401 W Business 83, Harlingen. $6.00 pp. Funny accordion player. For information call 956-412-0375. Dance w/Leslie Blasing, 07:00 PM, Texas Trails RV Resort, 501 W. Owassa Rd., Pharr. $6.00 pp. For informa-
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tion call 956-783-2605. Music & Dance, 07:00 PM, Roadrunner RV Park, 1222 N. Cesar Chavez Rd., Alamo For information call 956787-8047. Entertainment w/Al Mikesh, 07:00 PM, Pharr South RV Park, 1402 S. Cage Blvd., Pharr. $5.00 pp. Doors open at 6:00 pm. For information call 956-787-7839. Entertainment w/Bernie & Red Show, 07:00 PM, Mission West RV Park, 511 E. Loop 374, Palmview. $8.00 pp, $6.00 pp. Concessions available. For information call 956-585-5551. Entertainment w/Bill Chrastil, 07:00 PM, Rio Valley Estates, 715 N. Westgate Dr., Weslaco. $6.00 pp. For information call 956-968-2708. Entertainment w/Bob Wills Tribute, 07:00 PM, Paradise Resort Estates, 301 E. Hall Acres, Pharr. $7.00 pp in advance, $10.00 pp at the door. For information call 956-283-8035. Entertainment w/Freddy & Sheila, 07:00 PM, Eastgate MH & RV Park, 2801 E. Harrison Ave., Harlingen. $5.00 pp in Advance, $6.00 pp at the Door, Advance ticket sales: Wednesday - Friday 10:00 am - 1:00
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January 2016 Texas
Wednesday, January 20th Winter Texan Expo McAllen Convention Center 11:00am • Best of • FREE ADMISSION Friday, January 22nd Mission West RV, Mission NEW SHOW • 956-585-5551 Saturday, January 23rd River Bend RV, Brownsville Show #9 • 956-547-9933 Tuesday, January 26th Tropic Star RV, Pharr Show #14 • 956-787-5773 Wednesday, January 27th Winterhaven RV, Brownsville 6:30pm • Show #1 • 956-831-7755 Thursday, January 28th Paradise Resort Estates, Pharr Show #15 • 956-223-9359 Friday, January 29th Victoria Palms RV, Donna NEW SHOW (reserved seating) • 956-782-3263 Sunday, January 31st Sunshine RV, Harlingen 2:00pm • NEW SHOW • 956-425-7448
February 2016 Texas Tuesday, February 2nd Texas Trails RV, Pharr 2:00pm • Best of • 956-787-6538
St Baldrick’s Charity, helping children with cancer
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January 20, 2016 • • • Welcome
Home WINTER TEXAN • • • your official connection to the rio grande valley
DANCE ENTERTAINMENT & SHOWS
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SCHEDULE OF EVENTS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 11 pm, Doors open at 6:00 pm. For information call 956-423-3137. Entertainment w/Goldwing Express, 07:00 PM, Casa del Valle, 1048 N. Alamo Rd., Alamo. $6.00 pp. For information call 956-783-5008. Entertainment w/Jealous Heart, 07:00 PM, American Legion Post 37, 1305 E. Jasmine Ave., McAllen. For more information call 956-682-7841. Entertainment w/Nashville Grande Ole Oprey, 07:00 PM, Victoria Palms RV Resort, 602 N. Victoria Rd., Donna. $13.00 pp, $14.00 pp, $15.00 pp. For information call 956-782-3263. Entertainment w/Paul Eve, 07:00 PM, Wagon City North, 2905 N. Conway Ave., Mission. $6.00 pp. For information call 956-342-4437. Entertainment w/Williamson Branch, 07:00 PM, Winter Green Estates, 500 N. Bryan Rd., Mission. $6.00 pp. For information call 989-708-0921. Big Band/Rock & Roll Jam, 07:00 PM, Palm Shadows RV Park, 200 N. Val Verde Rd., Donna. For information call 507-273-3895.
SATURDAY, JANUARY 23, 2016 IMAS Brewseum 2016 Kick-Off Party:
Grills Gone Wild, 07:00 AM, Desperado Harley-Davidson, 1201 S. Bentsen Rd., McAllen .BBQ Cook-Off/ Car & Bike Show, Music, Food, Beer, Blessing of the Bikes. BBQ Cook-Off. Pan de Campo, Fajitas, Beans, Pork Spare Ribs. Cash Prizes/ $150 Team Entry Fee. call 878-9801 for more info. Car & Bike Show/ $15 Entry Fee. Free Show & Shine. Call 512966-0106 for more info. Acres Big Breakfast, 07:00 AM, Eldorado Acres RV Park, 610 N. FM 492, Mission. Pancakes $2.50, Eggs, Hash-browns, Toast $2.50, Sausage $1.00 more. Biscuits & Gravy $2.50 and up. Hash-browns, bacon 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 956-519-8650. 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. 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.
Waffles & More!, 07:30 AM, Aladdin Villas, 1415 Aladdin Villas Blvd, Mission $3.50 pp. Your choice of Ham or Sausage, W/ French toast or Pancakes, with Applesauce & Hot coffee. For information call 956-581-1288. CPR Class, 08:00 AM, McAllen Medical Center, 301 W. Expressway 83, McAllen. Breakfast, 08:00 AM, Lakewood RV Resort, 4525 Graham Rd., Harlingen. For information call 956-428-7116. 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. Craft & Flea Market, 08:00 AM, Trails End RV Resort, 2001 S. Texas Blvd., Weslaco. Breakfast served from 8:00 am to 10:00 am. For information call 956-968-5051. Craft Show, 08:00 AM, Fun-N-Sun RV Resort, 1400 Zillock Rd., San Benito. In Rec Hall. For information call 956-357-3320. Park Sale, 08:00 AM, Holiday Vil-
www.welcomehomergv.com • • • January 20, 2016
DANCE ENTERTAINMENT & SHOWS lage, 1501 N. Cage Blvd., Pharr. For information call 956-787-9493. Bird Tours, 08:30 AM, Palo Alto Battlefield National Historical Park, Paredes Line Rd., Brownsville. Palo Alto Battlefield NHP is now offering bird tours at the park. Tours will be led by park volunteer and Master Naturalist, Larry Culp. Bird tours will start and end at the eBird kiosk in the visitor center. The park will provide a viewing scope. Visitors may also check out a pair of binoculars. Tours are held rain or shine. For information call 956-541-2785. 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. Tai Chi in the Park, 08:30 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 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. For more information call (956) 681-3370. FREE Walking Tours, 09:00 AM, Java Cafe, 204 E. Jackson Ave., Harlingen. The walking tours depart from Java Café, 204 E. Jackson, at 9:00 a.m. and last approximately 90 minutes. Participants should wear comfortable walking shoes, dress for the weather, and come prepared to have fun. The tour also includes stops at several larger-than-lifesize murals and the city’s smallest park. Even locals will be amazed and entertained by what they learn. For more information, call 956-216-4910.
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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 Grassfed 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.
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2016 Carving Show, 10:00 AM, Cielo Banquet Hall, 1101 E. FM 495, San Juan. 70 table of carvings, tool vendors and carving wood, carving demonstrations, hourly door prizes, lunch counter, donation, $3.00 pp or $5.00 for 2 people. Carving competition, 150 carvings. Rally On The Rio Woodcarving Seminar, Monday - Saturday- Saturday, January 25ft - 30th. Classes open to all carvers from beginners to experienced for information go to: www.rgvwoodcarvers.org, over 20 instructors, Classes in Caricature carving, Relief carving, Fish, Birds, Wood Burning, Canes and Walking sticks, Power carving and more 8:00 AM- 4:30 PM Monday Thru Friday Many two and Three day classes available. For information call 651-485-0580. SPI Art Space Open Paint Class, 10:00 AM, Art Space, 1817 Padre Blvd., South Padre Island. Cost is $10 for two hours. You may also weave, knit, scrapbook or whatever art you want to do. There will be no formal instruction but artists are available. For more information call 956-761-2112. “New Quilts from an Old Favorite 2015-
SCHEDULE OF EVENTS CONTINUED ON PAGE 14 >>
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January 20, 2016 • • • 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 13 Nine Patch”, 10:00 AM, Harlingen Arts & Heritage Museum, 2425 Boxwood St., Harlingen. The 18 finalist & winning quilts from the annual contest sponsored by National Quilt Museum in Paducah, KY. The exhibit is brought to HAHM by the RGV Museum Association & sponsored by Janome America, Inc. and MODA Fashions. For information call 956-276-0027. Art Classes, 10:00 AM, Art Studio by Design, 722 N. Main St., McAllen. Weekly art classes opened to public. Classes offered in Painting, Drawing, Pottery Wheel and more. Call 956249-3534 for information or visit www.artstudiobydesign722.com. Business hours are 10AM - 5:30PM. 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. Family Nature Walk, 10:00 AM, McAllen Nature Center, 4101 W. Business
83, McAllen. A new topic each week! Join us for fun family exploration. All public programs are provided free of charge. A donation box is available. All donations are used to purchase native plants for the site. For information call 956-681-3333. The Market @ McAllen, McAllen Public Library, 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. STXFF Film Workshop: Starting a Career in Visual Effects and Motion Graphics, 11:00 AM, Dustin Michael Sekula Memorial Library, 1906 S. Closner Blvd., Edinburg. Get the information you need to start your own Visual Effect and Motion Graphics Career. Free Admission. Country Jam Lunch, 11:00 AM, Winter Ranch RV Resort, 600 St. Hwy 495, Alamo. For information call 956-783-4587. Yoga in the Park, 11:00 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 mat-intentional 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. Weather Cancellation Policy: If the temperature is below 50 degrees or it is raining class will be cancelled. 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, 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 at 11:00 am to 12:30 pm. For information call 956-968-3474. Jam Session, 12:30 PM, Big Valley Trailer Park, 109 E. Business Highway 83, Donna. For information call 989-424-1299. Mindfulness and Meditation, 12:30 PM, 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. For information call 956-681-3333. 2016 Winter Walking Tour: Old City Cemetery, 01:00 PM, Old City Cemetery, E. 5th St., Brownsville. This winter, we are once again offering Old City Cemetery tours led by Cemetery Coordinator, Gene Fernandez. The program admission includes coffee and refreshments after the tour. There will be a limit of 30 people per tour, so be sure to register early by calling 956-541-5560. Cost is $10 for members, $15 for nonmembers. Live Music w/Solitaire, 01:00 PM, Riverside Club, 214 E. Chimney Rd., Mission. For information call 956-581-1033. Happy Hour w/Mama’s Wranglers, 02:00 PM, Magnolia Park, 3707 E. US Highway 83, Donna. $4.00 pp. For information call 414-640-0994. Entertainment w/Lynn Dvorak, 03:00 PM, Citrus Mobile Park, 1700 Lime St., Edinburg. For more information call 402-640-4739. Karaoke, 03:00 PM, Winter Ranch RV Resort, 600 Hwy 495, Alamo. FREE Admission. For information call 956-783-4587. Max’s Grill, 03:00 PM, American Legion
Post 37, 1305 E. Jasmine Ave., McAllen. For more information call 956-682-7841. 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! Environmental Novel Read - Aloud, 04:00 PM, McAllen Nature Center, 4101 W. Business 83, McAllen. Enjoy a chapter from an environmental writer, such as Sigurd Olson, Aldo Leopold, Join Muir, Rachel Carson and others, followed by a short discussion. Don’t miss out on this relaxing and inspiring program. This program is targeted towards teens and adults. For information call 956-681-3333. Rib Dinner, 05:00 PM, Paradise Park Inc, 100 E. Hackberry Ave., McAllen. $7.00 pp. ALL DINNERS NEED TICKETS IN ADVANCE. For information call 956-682-8081. 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. For information call 956-581-2334. Entertainment w/Jim Staton, 06:30 PM, Ice House, 815 N. Francisco Ave., Mission. For information call 620-229-4197. Dance w/Arnie Wolf & Gang, 07:00 PM, Tropical Valley Acres, 1240 E. Business Hwy 83, Mission. For information call 956-583-5582. Dance w/Country Roland Jr., 07:00 PM, Paradise Resort Estates, 301 E. Hall Acres Rd., Pharr. $5.00 pp. Doors open at 6:15 pm, snack bar open. For information call 956-787-1521. Dance w/Diego, 07:00 PM, Hidden Valley Ranch, 7600 Long Dr., Mission. $5.00 pp. Doors open one hour prior to dance. BYOB. Soda, ice and popcorn available. For information call 956-580-4477. Dance w/Dixon & Company, 07:00 PM, El Valle Del Sol/Luna, 2500 E. Business 83, Mission. $5.00 pp. For information call 956-585-5704. Dance w/Gatos Locos, 07:00 PM, Green Gate Grove, 700 N. Bentsen Palm Dr., Mission. $6.00 pp. For information call 319-795-8101. Dance w/Kenaston Family Band, 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 956-756-4958. Dance w/Key Strings & Harmony, 07:00 PM, Eldorado Acres RV Park, 610 N FM 492, Mission. $5.00 pp. BYOB & Snacks for tables. For infor-
www.welcomehomergv.com • • • January 20, 2016
DANCE ENTERTAINMENT & SHOWS mation call 956-581-6718. Dance w/Lyle Beaver, 07:00 PM, McAllen Mobile Park, 4900 N. McColl Rd., McAllen. $5.00 pp. For information call 956-682-3304. Dance w/Lynn Dvorak, 07:00 PM, La Floresta RV Park & Golf Course, 4140 La Floresta, Mercedes. For more information call 402-640-4739. 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/Route 66, 07:00 PM, Trophy Gardens RV Resort, 800 Hwy 495, Alamo. $5.00 pp. For information call 956-685-5300. Dance w/Sipe & The Country Playboys, 07:00 PM, Twin Lakes RV Park, 301 N. Shary Rd., Mission. For information call 956-585-9982. Dance w/SweetWater, 07:00 PM, Casa del Valle, 1048 N. Alamo Rd., Alamo. $5.00 pp. For information call 956-783-5008. Dance w/Texas Sweethearts, 07:00 PM, Paradise South RV Resort, 9099 N. Mile 2 West Rd., Mercedes. $5.00 pp. For information call 956-825-9509. Mexican Fiesta Dance. Dance w/The Agency, 07:00 PM, Llano Grande Lake Park Resort, 2215 E. West Blvd., Mercedes. For information call 956-565-22228. Dance w/William Knight, 07:00 PM, Lakewood RV Resort, 4525 Graham Rd., Harlingen. $7.00 pp. For information call 956-428-7116. Entertainment w/4 His Glory, 07:00 PM, Kenwood RV Resort, 1201 North Main St., La Feria. $6.00 pp.For more information call 956-797-1875. Entertainment w/Bill Chrastil, 07:00 PM, Canyon Lake RV Resort, 4770 N. Mayberry Rd., Mission. $6.00 pp. For information call 956-580-7654. Entertainment w/Faith’s Journey, 07:00 PM, Winter Haven Village, 1015 W. Sam Houston Blvd., Pharr. $5.00 pp. For information call 320-282-0645. Entertainment w/Farnum Family, 07:00 PM, Bentsen Grove Resort, 810 Bentsen Palm Dr., Mission. $7.00 pp. For information call 956-585-0703. Entertainment w/Freddie & Sheila, 07:00 PM, Sunshine RV Resort, 1900 Grace Ave., Harlingen. $6.00 pp. For information call 956-425-7448. Entertainment w/Goldwing Express, 07:00 PM, La Hacienda Estates, 1018 El Paseo Dr., Alamo. $9.00 pp, pop and ice cream available. For information call 956-683-5160. Entertainment w/Hired Hand, 07:00 PM, Mission West Resort, 3805 US 83 Business, Mission. $5.00 pp. For more information call 870-404-7874. Entertainment w/John Sager, 07:00 PM, Seven Oaks Resort, 801 S. In-
spiration Rd., Mission. For information call 956-581-0068. Entertainment w/Maggie Mae, 07:00 PM, Fun-N-Sun RV Resort, 1400 Zillock Rd., San Benito. Advance Tickets on Sale, $6.00, $7.00 & $8.00, $10.00 at the Door. For information call 956-399-5800. Entertainment w/Southern Anthem, 07:00 PM, Enchanted Valley Ranch, 7300 Monroe St., Mission. $6.00 pp. For more information call 956-519-8597. Entertainment w/Texas Breed, 07:00 PM, American Legion Post 37, 1305 E. Jasmine Ave., McAllen. For more information call 956-682-7841. Entertainment w/Wade Bentsen Landry, 07:00 PM, Dixieland MH & RV Park, 1325 Dixieland Rd., Harlingen. $6.00 pp. 2 hour show with 15 min. intermission. For information call 956-425-6707. Entertainment w/William Florian, 07:00 PM, Tip O’Texas RV Resort, 101 E Sioux Rd., Pharr. $6.00 pp, “Those Were the Days”. For information call 956-787-6461. Karaoke, 07:00 PM, American Legion Post 101, 417 S. Cage Blvd., Pharr. For information call 956-787-7451. Dance w/HWY 100, 07:30 PM, Eastgate MH & RV Park, 2801 E Harrison Ave., Harlingen $5.00 pp. BYOB. Popcorn & Ice provided. For more information call 815-494-5159. Fort Brown Ghost Hunt 2016, 08:00 PM, Historic Fort Brown, 641 E. Madison St., Brownsville. The BHA and RGV Paranormal Investigations will be hosting a one-day ghost hunt at Fort Brown. Participants will meet in the parking lot in front of the Oliveira Library. The hunt will include areas around the old fort where paranormal activity has been reported. $20 per participant. 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.
SUNDAY, JANUARY 24, 2016 Church Service, 08:30 AM, Rio Valley Estates, 715 N. Westgate Dr., Weslaco. Leader Tom Cassidy, non-Denominational Service. All are Welcome. For information call 956-968-2708. 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 956-351-5701. Church Service, 08:30 AM, Victoria Palms RV Resort, 602 N. Victoria Rd., Donna. Call for information
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956-782-3263. Church Service, 08:30 AM, Bentsen Grove Resort, 810 Bentsen Palm Dr., Mission. Non-denominational services. For information call 956-585-0703. Church Service, 08:45 AM, Winter Haven Village, 1015 W. Sam Houston Blvd., Pharr. Pastor Robert Kracht. For information call 956-781-7881. 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, 09:00 AM, Fiesta Village RV Park, 205 S. Stewart Rd., Mission. For information call 956-585-9264. Church Service, 09:00 AM, Leisure World, 400 E. 18th St., Weslaco. For information call 956-968-8412. Church Service, 09:00 AM, Chimney Park RV Resort, 4224 S. Conway, Mission. For information call 956-585-5061. Church Service, 09:00 AM, Big Valley Trailer Park, 109 W. Business Highway 83, Donna. For information call 989-424-1299.
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Church Service, 09:00 AM, Winter Ranch RV Resort, 600 State Hwy 495, Alamo. Pastor Frisby Worship Leader. Fellowship at 8:30. Coffee, cookies and desserts. Church Service, 09:00 AM, Eastgate MH & RV Park, 2801 E. Harrison Ave., Harlingen. Pastor David Squire, For information call 956-423-3137. Church Service, 09:00 AM, Siesta Village, 2712 S. International Blvd., Weslaco. Pastor Ralph Hunt. For information call 956-969-3558. Church Service, 09:00 AM, Alamo Palms Mobile Park, 1341 W. Business Hwy 83, Alamo. Pastor Brian Dent. For information call 956-787-7571. Church Service, 09:00 AM, Trophy Gardens RV Resort, 800 Hwy 495, Alamo. Non-Denominational Service with Pastor Darrel Hardy. For information call 956-685-5300. Church Service, 09:00 AM, Hidden Valley Ranch, 7600 Long Dr., Mission. Coffee and refreshments available at 8:30. Services with Pastor Cameron Gillette. Church Service, 09:00 AM, Southern Comfort RV Resort, 1501 S. Airport Dr., Weslaco. For information call 956-638-3158. Church Service, 09:00 AM, Citrus
SCHEDULE OF EVENTS CONTINUED ON PAGE 16 >>
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Call today
956-687-5115
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January 20, 2016 • • • 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 15 Valley RV Park, 2901 W. Hwy 107, McAllen. Pastor Jim Troutman. For information call 956-383-8189. 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, 09:20 AM, Lakewood RV Resort, 4525 Graham Rd., Harlingen. For information call 956-428-7116. 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, Country Palms RV Park, 600 E. FM 495, San Juan. Pastor Tom Shouse. For information call 956-787-0680. Church Service, 09:30 AM, Quiet Village II, 215 S. Valley View Rd., Donna Pastor Curt Bentham & Pastor Mary Chamberlin. Coffee and fellowship begin at 9:00 am. For information call 956-464-7275. Church Service, 09:30 AM, Casa Del Sol RV Park, 400 N. Val Verde Rd., Donna. For information call 956-464-2272. 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, 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, Palm Gardens MH & RV Park, 3401 W. Business 83, Harlingen. Coffee & Donuts served from 9:15 am until 10:00 am. Rev. Don Hickman, BA & M.Div., Chaplain. Church Service, 10:00 AM, Sunshine RV Resort, 1900 Grace Ave., Harlingen. For information call 956-425-7448. Fried Chicken Dinner, 10:00 AM, Weslaco Elks Lodge, 201 S. Border Ave., Weslaco. $10.00 a plate. Includes 3 pieces of chicken. Green beans, Mashed potatoes, Cole slaw, Tea or coffee. Dessert for a fee. Information call 956-968-7115. 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. “New Quilts from an Old Favorite 2015Nine Patch”, 01:00 PM, Harlingen Arts & Heritage Museum, 2425 Boxwood St., Harlingen. The 18 finalist & winning quilts from the annual contest sponsored by National Quilt Museum in Paducah, KY. The exhibit (1-12-16 to 3-5-16) is brought to HAHM by the RGV Museum Association & sponsored by Janome America, Inc. and MODA Fashions. For information call 956-276-0027. Gospel Jam, 01:00 PM, Magnolia Park, 3707 E. US Highway 83, Donna. For information call 414-640-0994. Square Dance w/Lynn Nelson, 01:30
DANCE
Every Saturday FREE Popcorn and Ice Dance w/The Agency January 23 • 7:00 PM $8.00 pp • BYOB Dance w/Renaissance Rockers January 30 • 7:00 PM $6.00 pp • BYOB Sock Hop Dance w/The Cruisers February 6 • 7:00 PM $10.00 pp • BYOB Dance w/Diego February 13 • 7:00 PM $6.00 pp • BYOB
HAPPY HOUR
Happy Hour w/Diego March 17 • 3:00 PM Pass the Hat • BYOB
PM, Victoria Palms RV Resort, 602 N. Victoria Rd., Donna. For information call 956-782-3263. 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. Jam, 01:30 PM, Eldorado Acres RV Park, 610 N. FM 492, Mission. Cake and coffee available. 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 w/Renaissance Rockers, 02:00 PM, Riverside Club Bar & Grill, 214 E. Chimney Rd., Mission. For information call 956-581-1033. Entertainment w/Fred King, Bob Dolle & Friends, 02:00 PM, Winter Haven Village, 1015 W. Sam Houston Blvd., Pharr. $5.00 pp. For information call 956-781-7811. Entertainment w/Goldwing Express, 02:00 PM, Enchanted Valley Ranch
ENTERTAINMENT
Freddie & Sheila Pelletier January 31 • 7:00 PM $6.00 pp George Burns & Friends February 5 • 7:00 PM $15.00 pp Adam Pope Band February 12 • 7:00 PM $7.00 pp Gordy & Debbie February 19 • 7:00 PM $7.00 pp
JAM
Every Friday January 22 • 2:00 PM January 29 • 2:00 PM
KARAOKE
Every Wednesday Karaoke w/Harry & Judy January 20 • 5:00 PM January 27 • 5:00 PM BYOB
www.welcomehomergv.com • • • January 20, 2016
DANCE ENTERTAINMENT & SHOWS Inc, 7300 Monroe St., Mission. $6.00pp. For more information call 956-519-8597. Entertainment w/Maggie Mae, 02:00 PM, Bit-O-Heaven RV & MH Park, 1051 W. Business Hwy 83, Donna. $7.00 pp. Ice Cream Social to follow. For information call 956-464-5191. Entertainment w/Williamson Branch, 02:00 PM, Park Place Estates Resort, 5401 W. Business 83, Harlingen. $7.00 pp. For information call 956-412-0375. Country Jam, 02:00 PM, Carefree Valley Resort, 4506 N. Business 77, Harlingen. Free admission, refreshments served. For information call 956-425-2540. Max’s Grill Open, 02:00 PM, American Legion Post 37, 1305 E. Jasmine Ave., McAllen. For information call 956-682-7841. Power Walking in the Forest, 02:00 PM, McAllen Nature Center, 4101 W. Business 83, McAllen. Join a staff member for a brisk walk on the trails. We walk a 1/2 mile loop. Join us for one or two loops, or all of them! For information call 956-681-3333. 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. For information call 956-585-5551. Living Green, 03:00 PM, McAllen Nature Center, 4101 W. Business 83, McAllen. It’s easy being green! Join us at the picnic tables for an open discussion about greener, healthier living, and simple ways to make a difference in both the environment and in your life. Weekly topics include eating organic, pesticide alternatives, composting, vermiculture, essential oils, container gardening, and more! For information call 956-681-3333. Gospel Jam, 05:30 PM, Oleander Acres RV Resort, 2421S Conway Ave., Mission. Root Beer floats served at halftime for $1.00. For information call 956-585-9093. BBQ & Potluck, 05:30 PM, American
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Legion Post 101, 417 S. Cage Blvd., Pharr. Football, BBQ, Free Pot Luck. For information call 956-787-7451. Ice Cream Social, 05:30 PM, Lakewood RV Resort, 4525 Graham Rd., Harlingen. For information call 956-428-7116. Entertainment w/Nifty Fifties, 06:00 PM, Trophy Gardens RV Resort, 800 Hwy 495, Alamo. $10.00 pp. For information call 956-783-1003. Entertainment w/Route 66, 06:00 PM, American Legion Post 37, 1305 E. Jasmine Ave., McAllen. For more information call 956-682-7841. Sunday Entertainment, 06:00 PM, Alamo Palms RV Resort, 1341 W. Business 83, Alamo. For information call 956-787-7571. 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,
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06:30 PM, Alamo Palms, 1341 W. Business 83, Alamo. Tampico Hall For information call 765-661-0612. Entertainment w/Southern Anthem, 06:30 PM, Citrus Valley RV Park, 2901 W. State Highway 107, McAllen. For information call 715-928-2347. Big Band Jam, 06:30 PM, Alamo Rec Veh Park, 1320 W. Frontage Rd., Alamo. For information call 956-279-2698. Dance w/Butch Danielski Benefit Dance, 07:00 PM, Casa Del Sol MH/RV Park, 400 N. Val Verde Rd., Donna. Donations. For information call 956-464-9024. Entertainment w/Bill Chrastil, 07:00 PM, Texas Trails RV Resort, 501 W. Owassa Rd., Pharr. $5.00 pp. For information call 402-432-1707. Entertainment w/Goldwing Express, 07:00 PM, Siesta Village, 2712 S International Blvd., Weslaco. $6.00 pp. Doors open at 6:00 p.m. Popcorn, ice cream bars and soft drinks available. For information, call Dick/ Gayle, 956-969-3558. Entertainment w/JC Harrisson, 07:00 PM, Snow to Sun RV Resort, 1701 N. International Blvd., Weslaco. $7.00 pp. For information call 956-756-4958. Entertainment w/Johnny & Paul Eve, 07:00
SCHEDULE OF EVENTS CONTINUED ON PAGE 18 >>
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January 20, 2016 • • • 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 17 PM, Paradise South RV Resort, 9099 N. Mile 2 West Rd., Mercedes. $6.00 pp. For information call 956-825-9509. Entertainment w/Johnny Ray Gomez, 07:00 PM, 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/Kavie Rock & Roll, 07:00 PM, Big Valley Trailer Park, 901 W, Business Highway 83, Donna. $5.00 pp. For information call 989-424-1299. Entertainment w/Mama’s Wranglers, 07:00 PM, Leisure World, 400 E. 18th St., Weslaco. $6.00 pp. For information call 956-447-3821. Entertainment w/Positively Country Definitely Gospel, 07:00 PM, Magic Valley RV Park, 2300 E. Business Hwy 83, Weslaco. $6.00 pp. For information call 319-239-3462. Entertainment w/William Florian, 07:00 PM, Ranchero Village Mobile Home Park, 1900 S. Bridge Ave., Weslaco. $7.00 pp. The New Christy Minstrels. Popcorn, soda, water and ice cream drumsticks for purchase. For information call Kerry 269-599-6845. 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. Entertainment w/Swingin Cajun, 07:30 PM, Split Rail RV Park, 513 N. Los Ebanos Rd., Mission. For information call 956-585-8135.
MONDAY, JANUARY 25, 2016 SPI Art Space Painting w/Guy Morrow, 09:00 AM, Art Space, 1817 Padre Blvd., South Padre Island. This is a three day class beginning on Monday January 25th. The cost is $200 for nonmembers and $170 for members. For an additional $25, he will provide your materials. For more information call 956-761-2112. 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. Art Classes, 10:00 AM, Art Studio by Design, 722 N. Main St., McAllen. Weekly art classes opened to public. Classes offered in Painting, Drawing, Pottery Wheel and more. Call 956249-3534 for information or visit www.artstudiobydesign722.com. Business hours are 10AM - 5:30PM. Monday Meeting, 10:00 AM, Lakewood RV Resort, 4525 Graham Rd., Harlingen. For information call 956-428-7116. New Prauge, Jordan, Belle Plaine MN Luncheon, 11:00 AM, Harold’s Country Kitchen, 2111 E. Business Highway 83, Donna. And surrounding areas. Buffet dining starts at 11:30 am. For more information call Dick Eischens, 952-217-9919. 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. Lunch, 11:30 AM, Lakewood RV Resort, 4525 Graham Rd., Harlingen. For information call 956-428-7116. 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 E. Bogey Dr., Mission. $6.00 pp. 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. Country Western Jam, 01:00 PM, Alamo Palms Resort, 1341 W. Business 83, Alamo. Main Hall. Everyone welcome. For information call 956-787-7571. Jam, 01:00 PM, Winter Haven Village, 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! Rock & Roll Jam w/Ed Murray, 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. Yoga, 01:30 PM, Paradise Resort Estates, 301 E. Hall Acres, Pharr. For information call 956-252-7568. PH III Round Dance/Workshop, 02:00 PM, Alamo Palms, 1341 W. Business 83, Tampico Hall. For information call 765-661-0612 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. Free ice. For information call 620-441-1173. Entertainment w/Leslie Blasing, 03:30 PM, Victoria Palms RV Resort, 602 N. Victoria Rd., Donna. $12.00 pp, $10.00 pp, $8.00 pp, Music of the Times World War II, for information call 956-782-3263. Hamburger Night, 03:30 PM, Mission West RV Park, 511 E. Loop 374, Palmview. Charbroiled Hamburgers $4.50, Charbroiled Cheeseburgers $4.75. Charbroiled Grilled Chicken Sandwich $5.25, French Fries $1.75,
www.welcomehomergv.com • • • January 20, 2016
DANCE ENTERTAINMENT & SHOWS Onion Rings $2.25, Pies $1.25 Beginner Lessons, 04:00 PM, Alamo Palms, 1341 W. Business 83, Alamo. For information call 765-661-0612. PH II Workshop, 04:00 PM, Alamo Palms, 1341 W. Business 83, Alamo, Tampico Hall. For information call 765-661-0612. Entertainment w/Ed-Vern, 04:00 PM, Palms II Lounge, 600 E. 9th St., Mission. Great food, no smoke, BYOB. Dance w/Mona & Larry Beers, 04:30 PM, San Benito Elks Lodge No. 1661, 251 N. Reagan St., San Benito. For information call 956-399-1351. 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. Happy Hour, 05:00 PM, American Legion Post 37, 1305 E. Jasmine Ave., McAllen. $2.50 Well Drinks. For more information call 956-682-7841. Burgers, 05:00 PM, Paradise Park Inc, 100 E. Hackberry Ave., McAllen. For information call 956-682-8081. Hamburger Nite w/Jim Staton, 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, Small FF - $2.00, for information call 956-787-7451. Country Jam, 06:00 PM, The Grove, 612 Business 83, San Juan. Country Jam, 06:00 PM, Mission West RV Park, 511 E. Loop 374, Palmview. Concessions Available. For information call 956-585-5551. Gospel Jam, 06:00 PM, Carefree Valley Resort, 4506 N. Business 77, Harlingen. Free Admission. For information call 956-425-2540. Magic Valley Chorus Of Sweet Adelines International, 07:00 PM, St. Mark’s United Methodist Church, McAllen Shirley 956-661-9926. Janet 956682-8245. Practices held every Monday 7-10 pm @ St. Mark’s United Methodist Church, McAllen. Painting Classes, 07:00 PM, Art Studio by Design, 722 N. Main St., McAllen. $35.00 pp. We furnish all supplies! All you have to do is come and join in on the fun! Bring your friends and your favorite snacks and beverages! Call 956-249-3534 for more information. Dance w/Texas Whiskey Band, 07:00 PM, Rio Valley Estates, 715 N. Westgate Dr., Weslaco. $5.00 pp. Set-ups available, free popcorn. For information call 956-968-2708. Entertainment w/Faith’s Journey, 07:00 PM, J-5 RV Park, 3907 N Taylor Rd., Mission $5.00 pp. For information
call 956-682-7495. Entertainment w/Freddie & Sheila, 07:00 PM, Lemon Tree RV Inn, 1740 E. Business 83, Mission. $5.00 pp. For information call 262-395-3509. Entertainment w/John Sager, 07:00 PM, Carefree Valley Resort, 4506 N. Business 77, Harlingen. $7.00 pp. For information call 956-425-2540. Entertainment w/Leslie Blasing, 07:00 PM, Victoria Palms RV Resort, 602 N. Victoria Rd., Donna. $12.00 pp, $10.00 pp, $8.00 pp. Music of the Times World War II. For information call 956-782-3263. Entertainment w/Mama’s Wranglers, 07:00 PM, Green Gate Grove, 700 N. Bentsen Palm Dr., Mission. $7.00 pp, For information call 319-795-8101. Entertainment w/McAllen Steel Band, 07:00 PM, Casa del Valle, 1048 N. Alamo Rd., Alamo. $5.00 pp. For information call 956-783-5008. Entertainment w/Reba McEntire Tribute, 07:00 PM, Paradise Park RV Resort, 1201 N. Expressway 77, Harlingen. $12.00 pp. For information call 956-425-6881. Entertainment w/Southern Anthem, 07:00 PM, Hidden Valley Ranch, 7600 Long Dr., Mission. $6.00 pp. Country & Gospel. For information call 956-580-4477. Entertainment w/Williamson Branch, 07:00 PM, Palm Shadows RV Park, 200 N. Val Verde Rd., Donna. $7.00 pp. For information call 956-464-3326.
TUESDAY, JANUARY 26, 2016 Craft Sale, 07:30 AM, Paradise Resort Estates, 301 E. Hall Acres Rd., Pharr. Vendors interested in participating should contact Pat Keln 507-351-5246. Nomad Shriners Breakfast, 08:00 AM, Nomad Shrine Club, 1044 W. Nolana Loop, Pharr. For information call 956-781-1986. 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. Come and see what’s been showing up at the Wetlands throughout the week! These programs are free with paid admission or membership. Tours
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are available in English or Spanish. For information call 956-381-9922. Volunteers in the Park, 08:30 AM, McAllen Nature Center, 4101 W. Business 83, McAllen. All equipment is provided; gloves are limited. Volunteers are encouraged to bring their own work gloves. Projects include weeding, watering, planting, raking, and more. Groups of 10 or more may call to schedule an afternoon or weekend volunteer day. For information call 956-681-3333. Winter Ranch RV Resort Quilt Show, 08:30 AM, Winter Ranch RV Resort, 600 Hwy 495, Alamo. $2.00 pp. Free refreshments! Door Prizes! Fabric & sewing supply vendors. Bring your dull scissors Sharpening available! All proceeds go to the Quilting for the Needle 2016 Projects. Last season 342 quilts were donated to various needs Easter Seals, Alamo Police & Fire Department, First Responders, McAllen Neo-Natal Unit. For information call 956-783-4587. RGVSA/TSSA Shuffleboard Tournament, 09:00 AM, Magic Valley RV Park, 2300 E. Business 83, Weslaco. Doubles tournament. $6.00 entry fee per
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team. Free admission for spectators. Three day event with ladies playing on Jan 26, men on Jan 27, and finals on Jan 28(8:30 am to 12:00 noon). For information call 956-968-0247. SPI Art Space Painting w/Guy Morrow, 09:00 AM, Art Space, 1817 Padre Blvd., South Padre Island. This is a three day class beginning on Monday January 25th. The cost is $200 for nonmembers and $170 for members. For an additional $25, he will provide your materials. For more information call 956-761-2112. W.O.W.E Winter Outdoor & Wildlife Expo, 09:00 AM, South Padre Island Birding And Nature Center, 6801 Padre Blvd., South Padre Island. Each day will have new topics and guest speakers. the price is $5.00 per person or $20.00 for the week. Tuesday information on Lower RGV Environment, Wednesday information on Fishing in the Gulf of Mexico, Thursday information on Native Plants & the Critters that use them, Friday information on Birds and Migration, Saturday is Family Day, Friday & Saturday special show from Johnathon Wood’s Raptor Project. Three shows daily. For information call 956-761-6801.
SCHEDULE OF EVENTS CONTINUED ON PAGE 20 >>
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January 20, 2016 • • • 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 19 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. “New Quilts from an Old Favorite 2015Nine Patch”, 10:00 AM, Harlingen Arts & Heritage Museum, 2425 Boxwood St., Harlingen. The 18 finalist & winning quilts from the annual contest sponsored by National Quilt Museum in Paducah, KY. The exhibit is brought
to HAHM by the RGV Museum Association & sponsored by Janome America, Inc. and MODA Fashions. For information call 956-276-0027. Art Classes, 10:00 AM, Art Studio by Design, 722 N. Main St., McAllen. Weekly art classes opened to public. Classes offered in Painting, Drawing, Pottery Wheel and more. Call 956249-3534 for information or visit www.artstudiobydesign722.com. Business hours are 10AM - 5:30PM. 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. 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, Har-
lingen. For information call 956-423-5484. Wisconsin Retired Teachers Assoc., 11:00 AM, Ann’s Restaurant, San Juan. WI retired teachers assoc. monthly meeting. Open Jam, 11:00 AM, Leisure World, 400 E. 18th St., Weslaco. 11:00 - 12:00 Lunch Served, 12:00 - 2:00 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. Hamburger Tuesday, 11:30 AM, Lakewood RV Resort, 4525 Graham Rd., Harlingen. For information call 956-428-7116. Boat Ride/River Tour, 12:00 PM, Riverside Club, 214 E. Chimney Rd., Mission. For information call 956-581-1033. Magic Valley Retirement P.E.O. Meet-
ing, 12:00 PM, Echo Hotel & Conference Center, S. Closner Blvd., Edinburg. Lunch will be served at 12:15 pm followed by meeting and program. For reservations call Lynne Kephart 563-419-1619. Diabetes Management Class, 01:00 PM, McAllen Medical Center East Classroom, 3rd Floor. 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, Roadrunner
www.welcomehomergv.com • • • January 20, 2016
DANCE ENTERTAINMENT & SHOWS 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. Open Jams, 01:00 PM, Magnolia Park, 3707 E. US Highway 83, Donna. For information call 414-640-0994. 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. Happy Hour w/Lynn Dvorak, 03:00 PM, Snow to Sun RV Resort, 1701 N. International Blvd., Weslaco. Pass the Hat, BYOB. 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. Happy Hour, 05:00 PM, American Legion Post 37, 1305 E. Jasmine Ave., McAllen. $6.50 domestic pitchers, lasagna. For more information call 956-682-7841. Lasagna Dinner, 05:00 PM, American Legion Post 37, 1305 E. Jasmine Ave., McAllen. For information call 956-682-7841. Taco Nite w/Jim Staton, 05:00 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. Country Jam w/Ed Murray, 05:30 PM, Enchanted Valley Ranch, 7300 Monroe St., Mission. For information call 956-519-8597. Overeaters Anonymous, 06:00 PM, McAllen Heart Hospital, 1900 S. D St., McAllen. Are you having problems with food? Come join us for an informative support group on how to help control your cravings. For information call Carmen 956-475-3791. Country Jam, 06:00 PM, Canyon Lake RV Resort, 4770 N. Mayberry Rd., Mission.
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MEALS
For information call 956-580-4545. Entertainment w/Sherwin Linton, 06:30 PM, The Grove, 612 E. Business 83, San Juan. $6.00 pp. For information call 956-781-1840. Dance w/Richard Lynch Band, 07:00 PM, Victoria Palms RV Resort, 602 N. Victoria Rd., Donna. $7.00 pp. voncessions available, BYOB. For information call 956-782-3263. 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/Bernie & Red, 07:00 PM, Tropic Star RV Resort, 1401 S. Cage Blvd., Pharr. Doors open @ 6:15pm. For information call 956-787-5773. Entertainment w/Betty Rydell, 07:00 PM, Bentsen Grove Resort, 810 Bentsen Palm Dr., Mission. $5.00 pp, for information call 956-585-0703. Entertainment w/Bill Chrastil, 07:00 PM, The Fig Tree RV Resort, 15257 W. Expressway 83, Harlingen. $6.00 pp. For information call 956-423-6699. Entertainment w/Felicia McMinn, 07:00 PM, Fun-N-Sun RV Resort, 1400 Zillock Rd., San Benito. $5.00 pp. For information call 956-399-5800. Entertainment w/J.C. Harrisson, 07:00
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PM, Alamo Rose RV Park, 938 S. Alamo Rd., Alamo. $7.00 pp. Concessions Available. For information call 956-783-2605. Entertainment w/Maggie Mae, 07:00 PM, Tip O’Texas RV Resort, 101 E. Sioux Rd., Pharr. $7.00 pp. For information call 956-787-6461. Entertainment w/Ron & Jan Easter, 07:00 PM, Texas Trails RV Resort, 501 W. Owassa Rd., Pharr. $6.00 pp. For information call 956-787-6538. Entertainment w/Tavie’s Rock & Roll Show, 07:00 PM, Trails End RV Resort, 2001 S. Texas Blvd., Weslaco. $6.00 pp. For more information call 956-351-5701. Entertainment w/The Chamberlin’s & Southern Express, 07:00 PM, Quiet Village II, 215 S. Valley View Rd., Donna. For information call 956-464-7275. Entertainment w/Tribute to Reba McEntire, 07:00 PM, Lakewood RV Resort, 4525 Graham Rd., Harlingen. $12.00 in Advance, $15.00 at the Door. For information call 956-428-7116. Entertainment w/Williamson Branch, 07:00 PM, Country Sunshine RV Resort, 1601 S. Airport Dr., Weslaco. $6.00 pp. For information call 956-638-3158. Karaoke, 07:00 PM, American Legion Post 101, 417 S. Cage Blvd., Pharr. •
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January 20, 2016 • • • Welcome
Home WINTER TEXAN • • • your official connection to the rio grande valley
www.welcomehomergv.com • • • January 20, 2016
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PARK NEWS
Seven Oaks Resort RATS Special to Welcome Home RGV
Llano Grande Hosting George Burns and Friends February 5
Special to Welcome Home RGV
Remember when you listened to the The above pictures show that the
annual RATS infestation is again underway. Of course, wherever food is left out, you are liable to attract critters. Over 60 players (RATS) gathered to test their skills to ultimately determine who will be king, queen, and court jester. This international tournament, which is a rummy-based card game, will run through the end of February. •
Orphan Train Riders Event at Alamo Rec Veh RV Park January 27
Special to Welcome Home RGV
A fascinating
story presented by Dorothy A. Lund Nelson of Rochester, Minnesota. When: Wednesday, January 27 at 12 noon (Doors open at 11:30 a.m.) Where: Alamo Rec Veh RV Park (1320 West Frontage Rd., Alamo) Do you know of anyone who rode on an orphan train? Some 250,000 children from the east coast of our country were delivered throughout our nation by the Orphan Train Movement from 1854-1929. The Children’s Aid Society was formed to help deal with the large number of orphan children who were living on the streets of New York City or in orphan asylums. The movement was intended to transform these orphan children into self-reliant members of society by exposing them to gainful work, education, and a wholesome family atmosphere. Two of the young men became governors, one of North Dakota and one of the Territory of Alaska. Dorothy has written a book about each of those orphans. She wrote another book about living in the North Dakota Children’s Home in Fargo, North Dakota. Her books will be for sale at the program.
For tickets to this event, call the Activity Office of Alamo Rec Veh at 956-783-5440 Admission $10 (Includes Lunch) Dorothy’s American history program is given in a lively, interactive way. Attendees will learn why the children traveled across America and what they experienced on their journeys to new parents. Presently, there are many novels concerning the orphan trains, but it is not part of our history books. To learn more about the Orphan Train Movement, please plan to attend. If you have specific questions for Dorothy, she can be reached at 507-273-8208 or by email at dlundnelson@hotmail.com. •
comedy greats on the radio and then later watched them on TV? You can enjoy the Golden Age of Comedy once again right here in the Rio Grande Valley. George Burns and Friends will be appearing at Llano Grande Resort & Country Club Friday, February 5, at 7:00 p.m. Doors will open at 6:00 p.m. Pete Salzer does an amazing tribute to George Burns. When he appeared at Victoria Palms in December of 2011, there was a collective ‘gasp’ as he walked on stage. He was the very image of George Burns! And when he spoke, you would have sworn you were listening to George himself. He captures the look, voice, and style of this lovable actor and comedian. He has paid tribute to George Burns at the Tropicana Showroom in Atlantic City, on the stage of the Royal Caribbean Cruise Line, and for a variety of groups and organizations. The “Friends” section of the show stars Lynn Roberts as Bob Hope, Jimmy Durante, Jack Benny and Red Skelton. Lynn won the prestigious Bea Fogelman REEL AWARD for Lifetime Achievement for his impersonation of Bob Hope at the International Celebrity Impersonators Convention at the Flamingo Hotel in Las Vegas. As ‘George Burns’ reminisces about his comedian friends, Lynn
gives his impressions of the comedic greats. You’ll believe these beloved comedians are right on the stage in front of you, and you will spend your evening laughing and enjoying the memories. You don’t want to miss this memorable evening of fun and laughter, and it’s all happening at Llano Grande Resort & Country Club, 2215 East West Blvd in Mercedes (Exit Mile 2 West off Expressway 83 and go south about a mile). Tickets are $15 and can be purchased at the Llano Grande activity office. To order and pay by phone, call 956-5652228. For more information, contact Robert Ferguson at 574-361-2947. •
Little Nashville in Mercedes January 28 Special to Welcome Home RGV
Save the date:
January 28 at 6:00 p.m. Every last Thursday of the month, we are celebrating in Downtown Mercedes with the best country and western music in the Valley! We have three great bands slated to play for you January 28, so get your boots shined up, and come prepared to dance!
6:00 p.m. – Lewis Jett and Friends 7:15 p.m. – Cedar Creek 8:30 p.m. – Kikker Daddy Legacy (A tribute to Country Roland) See you in Nashville (aka Mercedes)! •
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January 20, 2016 • • • Welcome
Home WINTER TEXAN • • • your official connection to the rio grande valley
Counting the Days until the Llano Grande Lake Park Resort 7th Annual Quilt Show Special to Welcome Home RGV
The
Llano Grande Quilting Bee is proud to present its 7th Annual Premier Quilt Show Friday, January 29, from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m at 2215 East West Boulevard in Mercedes. (Take the Mile 2 West Road exit from US 83/I2 and go south. Enter Llano Grande via the main gate) Admission for the show is $1.00. The Heirloom Rose of Llano is the show theme and the name of the “Opportunity Quilt.” The quilt is an exquisite, French linen rose design with lightweight wool batting. In keeping with the “Heirloom” theme of the show, several of our bee members will display their family heirloom quilts. The Llano Grande Quilt Bee traditionally displays up to 200 beautiful quilted projects at the show each year. From amazing hand and machine quilts and incredible wall hangings in traditional and landscape techniques to tableware and trendy purses and totes, the show is simply a work of art. The vast array of handcrafted items sold in our boutique has our guests rushing directly to that area to insure they have first choice. The next stop at the show is the display of handmade purses and totes. Purchase as many tickets as you would like to win the bag you like best for the drawing at
the end of the day. And while the “Opportunity Quilt” is not awarded the day of the show, tickets are available for the February drawing. Last year a quilter from Donna won the “Opportunity Quilt.” Good luck winning the Heirloom Rose of Llano! The Heirloom Rose theme will also be carried out in our 2016 Challenge. Challenge participants have been given identical fabric swatches in a nostalgic rose pattern. Bee members will create an original wall hanging incorporating that piece of fabric in a unique design. The creativity of the Llano quilters is always exciting to see. At the show, be sure to check out the fabric and notions sold by dedicated, local merchants, and bring your scissors and knives to be sharpened by our experienced sharpener. With so much to see and do, you will probably want to relax with a cup of coffee and homemade cookies or purchase a delicious lunch from Llano’s First Responder volunteers. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned quilter (or perhaps you simply appreciate the beauty of color and design and the artistry of this ageless craft), PREPARE to be IMPRESSED at the Llano Grande Heirloom Rose Quilt Show, January 29, 2016. •
www.welcomehomergv.com • • • January 20, 2016
Filling the Void--Volunteering
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by Janet Higgs, Pharr South
When
I retired, I had all these plans of things I was going to accomplish. Crafts, travel, learning a new language, even getting organized. Now that that is done, what do I do? If you find yourself with time on your hands, like me, tired of doing the same old thing, bored, or wondering if there is a reason to get out of bed in the morning, volunteering might be the answer. At what? Look inside yourself. What is your passion? What did you always want to do? Can you build on your past experiences or profession? What are your dreams? If you like to read, maybe you can read once a week to children at the library. Are you willing to help tutor a child having trouble reading in school? If you’re good at math, maybe you could help a child who is struggling. Classrooms today are too crowded for teachers to give oneon-one attention to a student who could use a little extra care and/or attention. Maybe you miss your grandchildren and could help at a hospital nursery or children’s ward. This are times when children feel afraid, alone, and abandoned. Parents are working or
caring for other children at home. Can you start a teddy bear drive or stuffed animal drive in your community to take to these children for support and comfort while they heal? Do you have a pet you can take to a nursing home once a week for pet therapy? It has been shown that even the withdrawn person (young and old) responds to an animal, with love. Can you sew, knit, or crochet? Nursing homes need lap blankets during these cold months. Small shawls to wrap around the shoulders are always welcome. Hats and baby blankets at the hospital nursery would be such a nice welcome for the new baby. Local food banks need help sorting and packing food donated by the community. Start a food drive in your community, and once a month, deliver it to the food bank. Look to your 4Hs and help teach woodworking or sewing and cooking skills to our young adults/children. These are skills they will use later in life, and they may even like it enough to be the next great chef or designer. Do you have nutritional knowledge
you can share in your park or community with newly diagnosed diabetics or heart patients? These folks need to learn shopping and cooking skills, and sometimes this can be scary. Can you take someone shopping who is having trouble getting around? Take cookies or muffins and just visit with a neighbor you know is alone, and listen for a half hour. This can make all the difference in someone’s life. Your church, parish, or synagogue is always looking for volunteers to help in one way or another. If we look deep inside ourselves, we can find a way to help each other fill the void we all face at one time or another. One lady at our park started a widows’ club after thinking about it for five years. And after a year, it is going strong. The ladies go out to lunch once a month. They don’t have to go to shows or outings alone, and they always have someone to talk to. Get out there and find a way to give back to life by volunteering. Someone needs what you have to offer. •
Where do you volunteer? Are you a part of a non-profit organization that you would like to share with others? Send us the details and we can see how we can help spread the word.
Call today
956-687-5115
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January 20, 2016 • • • Welcome
Home WINTER TEXAN • • • your official connection to the rio grande valley
www.welcomehomergv.com • • • January 20, 2016
Introducing Randy Hoelscher:
The Border Cook Special to Welcome Home RGV
Greetings
fellow Winter Texans. My name is Randy Hoelscher - “The Border Cook.” I absolutely love cooking, so when we started coming to the Rio Grande Valley 10 years ago, I became really interested in Mexican and Tex-Mex cuisines. I recently started a new web site at TheBorderCook.com where I share recipes as well as provide insights into the cuisine from our area. I have personally prepared and tested all of the recipes on the site and have a group of fellow Pharr South residents who have become my “Official Tasters,” so my recipes include comments that will help you tweak the recipe to your
personal taste. To kick things off, I am giving you an easy recipe for Tomato Salsa. My goal here was to come up with a recipe for salsa like you find in restaurants here and in Mexico - not ‘salsa-in-a-jar.’ I was looking for eye appeal, flavor, a nice texture, and some “heat.” I also wanted to have one that was good served hot or cold. I think I nailed it after a few attempts. Here it is. My tasters tell me this recipe packs some heat. If you like a mild salsa, delete the serrano pepper or one of the two jalapenos. Buen Apetito! •
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Potluck Possibilities: Great Food To Share
These
are easy-peasy with NO baking. Who doesn’t like candy? I know some of us will limit the number we eat, but that’s K; even one is a great treat! An empty plate will go home with you after the dinner! •
by Sandy Olson,
Palm Shadows RV Park
Snow Balls • 1 cup peanut butter • 1 cup Rice Krispies (or store brand rice cereal) • 1 tablespoon real butter, softened • 3 cups powdered sugar, divided • ½ cup finely chopped peanuts • 2 tablespoons water • 1 drop of real vanilla extract • Flaked, sweetened coconut for rolling Using an electric mixer, cream the peanut butter and two cups of the powdered sugar until smooth. Add the rice cereal, butter, and chopped peanuts. Shape into balls. (You decide the size.) Mix the water and vanilla with the remaining cup of powdered sugar to make the icing. Put the coconut into a shallow dish. Dip the balls into the icing and then into the coconut. Let them dry on a wire rack. Sandy Olson, lifelong foodie, restaurant reviewer, cooking teacher. Summer Iowan; Winter Texan. You can contact Sandy at midwestfoodie@gmail.com.
YOUR RECIPE! Fresh Tomato Salsa The recipe will make about three cups and takes about a half hour to prepare, including preparation and cooking time. Ingredients: • 8 Roma tomatoes - halved length-wise, with most of the stem and seeds removed. • 2 jalapeno peppers - halved length-wise with seeds and webbing removed. • 1 serrano pepper - whole with stem removed. • 2-3 cloves of garlic – unpeeled – depends on the size. • 1/2 tsp. cumin. • 1/2 cup finely diced white or yellow onion. • 1/2 cup loosely packed fresh cilantro leaves - diced. • 1 Tbsp. fresh lime juice. • 1/2 tsp. kosher salt. Preparation: Set your stove to broil with the oven rack four to five inches from the top. Line a rimmed cookie sheet with foil and spread a little olive oil or cooking spray on it. Place the tomatoes and jalapenos on the sheet, open side up, along with the whole serrano pepper and the garlic cloves. Broil for five to six minutes - until things start to get a little brown. Turn everything over and grill for another five to six minutes with the skin up. The tomato and pepper skins should start to brown and ‘blister’ a bit. Remove from oven and cool a few minutes. Remove most of the tomato skins. Squeezing the garlic clove should extrude the garlic from the peel easily - you may have to cut off the thick end. Place 1/2 of the tomatoes, the peppers, the garlic, the cumin, and the salt in a food processor, along with pan juices and puree, until smooth. Add the remaining tomatoes, the onions, and cilantro to the puree and ‘pulse’ the food processor a couple of times to blend the ingredients while keeping some texture in the salsa. Serve with tortilla chips or on tacos, etc.
You have a recipe worth sharing? Submit your favorite recipes today! Send in your recipes to news@welcomehomergv.com
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January 20, 2016 • • • Welcome
Home WINTER TEXAN • • • your official connection to the rio grande valley
READING CONNECTION
A Rio Grande Valley Adventure by Roda Grubb
Chapter 2: Blink, You’re Gone
(Quick
synopsis: Sadie, a Winter Texan, found Soljo, a young teen dressed in a loincloth and leather sandals, in the middle of her RV park’s driveway, terrified and confused. Bringing him and his dilemma of being completely lost and confused to her friends, George, a retired doctor, Jack, a retired history teacher, Phyllis, a local tour-director for Winter Texans, and Frank, owner of a monster truck, they set off to help Soljo find his way home, wherever that may be. First stop was Mission Historical Museum.) Pick up our Welcome Home Winter Texan: Issue 7 to read Chapter 1 starting on page 4. Soljo’s head bobbed up and down as he looked eagerly out of the monster truck’s window at the magical things passing by the window. His arms hugged his bent knees, and the smile on his face wouldn’t quit. Obviously Soljo was enjoying the whole experience. “So, that didn’t go so good, did it?” Sadie had lost some of her chipper spirit she’d had going into the Mission Historical Museum. Though they had
enjoyed the many rooms of artifacts, no one seemed to know about a largerthan-usual, older tree anywhere in the city. They were careful to explain they were looking for a special photo-shoot location. Even so, they received some wary stares at the tanned, scratching young teen who trailed slowly behind them. As much as he tried, Soljo couldn’t get used to all those clothes. “Are all of these things I see magic? How can they be?” Soljo was finding it hard to comprehend what his eyes beheld wherever he looked. “How did these monsters [vehicles] come to be? What makes the sparkles in the lights with no fire? Where do you get all these materials to construct these buildings of all shapes and sizes? I find this incredible to believe, yet I cannot deny it to be real. How will I tell my friends and family of this?” “And therein lies another major problem we need to deal with.” George was coming to believe in the impossible--Soljo was of another time. “What if . . . what if Soljo somehow came through a time barrier in that
tree? We have to get him back to the exact spot so he’ll arrive back in the same time he left. And . . . what do we do about what he is learning here?” “But what if I came here for a purpose?” Soljo objected. “What if I am meant to teach you about my people, so we would not be forgotten? And what if some of the things I see and learn here could ensure our very existence? It seems to me this--what do you call it?--adventure--must have a purpose or the gods would not have sent me here. This I do believe.” “Well, ok, then,” Sadie piped up. “I think food is in order about now. Let’s get some and talk this out.” After describing a few different styles of restaurants and food, the group gathered at a local Mexican establishment to hash out their allround plan. “We’ll go to the Mission Chamber first. If the museum didn’t know, the chamber will surely know of any unusual trees. We’ll keep to the story that we need to find it because it’s for a photo shoot. Then we’ll go from there,”
Phyllis laid out the plan. “I can’t help but want to know more about you, Soljo. How old are you? Do you belong to a tribe? How do you live?” Jack’s history-teacher curiosity no longer could be contained. Soljo’s youthful face lit up with a wide smile. “I’m just as curious about you but I will answer your questions first. I am 13 winters and belong to a tribe living along the river, as you do. Only the river was much further inland than it is now. My people live by gathering our foods, eating wild game we hunt, and seasoning our food with salt from the salt lake a few moons from us.” Jack nodded as he recognized La Sal del Rey Lake in northern Hidalgo County. Frank had noticed a man in a cowboy hat and boots leaning in to hear their RGV ADVENTURE CONTINUED ON PAGE 41 >>
www.welcomehomergv.com • • • January 20, 2016
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ROCKIN’ THE RGV
On the Beatles Tourist Trail By Bernie Crawley
As a Liverpool native and resident
for the first 30 years of my life, it’s hard to grasp that for almost 10 years after the Beatles conquered the U.S. in 1964, the city fathers of Liverpool totally ignored the tourist potential of the city that spawned the Fab Four; heck, they even approved the demolition of The Cavern in 1973. Things have certainly changed since then, Liverpool is now the 5th most visited city in the UK, and tourism adds 70 million pounds a year to the Liverpool economy. A trip to Merseyside now can keep a tourist occupied for a week or more, taking in the sights, sounds, and background of the most popular music group of all time. There are countless commercial tours you can take-everything from the Magical Mystery Tour bus, which holds 40 passengers, to a Fab Four Taxi Tour, which can accommodate four people. Or you can
head out on your own in a rental car or on public transport. There’s a great bus/ferry/train service in Merseyside. You’ll probably want to start at The Cavern. Even though it’s not the original building, you can get a feel for what it was like, and Mathew Street itself hasn’t changed an awful lot, The Grapes pub is still there, where all the Mersey beat bands would drink between or after sets at The Cavern. (You couldn’t buy alcohol at The Cavern.) After that, you will surely want to visit the childhood homes of the four mop tops. The homes of Paul McCartney and John Lennon have been restored to a similar condition as they would have been in the 1950s. The National Trust owns and operates the homes and has tied the two houses together into one attraction, a single ticket granting access to both.
Just over 10,000 visits were made in 2013. However, be aware that you have to book in advance to tour these two properties. It can be quite an eerie experience to see where the Beatles met, composed, and rehearsed many of their earliest songs. Imagine walking through the back door into the kitchen where John’s Aunt Mimi would have cooked him his tea, or standing in the spot where Lennon and McCartney composed I Saw Her Standing There. You can get more info at the National Trust web site (www.nationaltrust.org.uk/beatleschildhood-homes). For the homes of George Harrison and Ringo Starr, you have a few choices. George’s first childhood home was 12 Arnold Grove, Wavertree. He then moved to Speke with his family at the age of six. Both of these houses are privately owned. Ringo’s home, for most of his time in Liverpool, was 10 Admiral Grove, and again this house is privately owned. The BBC web site has a great piece about the childhood
homes of all four Beatles. You’ll find it here: www.bbc.com/news/uk-englandmerseyside-29642223 Woolton is a beautiful village/suburb of Liverpool with great importance in Beatles history. It was here that McCartney and Lennon met for the first time in July of 1957. John Lennon and his skiffle group, The Quarrymen, performed that afternoon at the St. Peter’s Church fete and then again later that evening The Quarrymen were due to play in the church hall across the road, and it was here that Paul McCartney was introduced to John Lennon. In suitable historic fashion, there is now a plaque on the wall of the hall commemorating this historic event. In the graveyard of St Peter’s Church, you can see the grave of Eleanor Rigby, and only a short distance away, you can take a selfie in front of the graffiti-covered gates BEATLES TRAIL CONTINUED ON PAGE 41 >>
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January 20, 2016 • • • Welcome
Home WINTER TEXAN • • • your official connection to the rio grande valley
www.welcomehomergv.com • • • January 20, 2016
Low Back Pain:
Why does it occur and how can we fix it? Special to Welcome Home RGV
back pain affects almost everyone in some way at some point in his or her lifetime. Pinpointing the source of the pain is the key to managing it. Osteoarthritis of the hip, fibromyalgia, myofascial syndrome, and depression are some of the conditions that can trigger low back pain or exacerbate it. What is a Pain Generator? A pain generator refers to the source in our body that triggers internal signals, which our brain then interprets as pain. Recently, researchers have found an association between inflammation and pain and disability experienced in the elderly population. These mediators of inflammation can have different sources within our spine, which are: 1. The disc, which can tear and herniate material from within. Disc protrusions are bulges that may not have significant importance alone but combined with other pain generators can become intense enough to affect quality of life. 2. The joints, which can increase in size as we age and work less efficiently, thereby becoming another source of pain. Nearby nerves can compress the joints, resulting in “pinched nerves.” 3. The nerves, which can be compressed by discs or joints. 4. The lack of room within the spinal canal, compressing the nerve roots from the lower levels of the lumbar spine, causing difficulty walking, particularly long distances, and generating back and leg pain 5. The loss of adequate biomechanical balance. This refers to the loss of the natural curves with which the spine is most efficient. If we progressively develop scoliosis or kyphosis, the body’s own weight acts as a catalyst that increases pain in those areas that are under the most stress. Treating Low Back Pain Currently, physicians can perform selective root blocks, which are injections to diagnose the areas of pain or perform discograms in those patients with multiple degenerated discs. In addition, doctors can utilize physical therapy and braces prior to considering fusion, particularly in those patients who do not have weakness or neurological deficits. Minimally invasive surgeries, such as foraminotomies and microdiscectomies, can now be done with muscle-splitting techniques. Advantages of fusion surgeries done
Register for Annual Gardening in South Texas Program Special to Welcome Home RGV
Join the Deep South Texas Master
Low
Gardeners for their annual Gardening in South Texas program. Whether you’re from Texas or just a part-time Texan, the Rio Grande Valley is just a little different than the rest of our great state. Learn localized information on vegetable gardening, landscaping,
Dr. Jaime Gasco
with minimally invasive approaches are less blood loss and shorter hospital stays. New technical advances, such as spine navigation and precision neuromonitoring during surgery, make spine surgery safer and with more reproducible results. In summary, pinpointing the source of pain takes thorough examination, imaging, and possible diagnostic blocks or EMG studies to adequately determine the pain generator and address it. Without this approach, we could be treating only one aspect of the patient’s pain but not understand it as a whole. This becomes particularly important prior to considering fusion surgery, which can permanently alter the biomechanics of a person, and if not done properly, can cause a different pain. In other words, we should not approach low back pain with a “shotgun approach” but rather with a “sniper’s precision.”• Dr. Jaime Gasco delivers patientcentered, holistic care and focuses on improving a patient’s quality of life using specialty treatments that range from conservative methodologies to surgery, including minimally invasive techniques for brain, spine and peripheral nerve disorders. Fluent in Spanish and English, Dr. Gasco completed his residency in neurosurgery at University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, and Houston Medical Center (MD Anderson Methodist, Hermann Memorial Hospital) and his internship at the University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia. His office, the Nuero-Spine Institute for Valley Care Clinics, is located at 4302 S. Sugar Rd. Ste. 100 in Edinburg, Texas. Schedule an appointment by calling 1-855-VCC-APPT.
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water conservation, tree care, and much more. The program will be held over two Saturdays, January 30 and February 6, and costs $50. Seating is limited, so sign up soon. For more information, please call the Hidalgo County Extension Office at 956-383-1026. •
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January 20, 2016 • • • Welcome
Home WINTER TEXAN • • • your official connection to the rio grande valley
The Bus Ride that Led to Transformation Special to Welcome Home RGV
Casimiro
Rodriguez was drunk and high the day before his brother kicked him out of the house. Rodriguez’s addiction to cocaine and alcohol had led to many family disputes. But this time, the dispute resulted in Rodriguez’s homelessness and rude awakening. With nowhere to go during the summer of 1993, Rodriguez looked for a bus in McAllen that would take him far away from the Valley. With his backpack and a suitcase in hand, he got on the first bus he saw— not realizing that it was for local transportation only. But small talk with the bus driver led Rodriguez to an unexpected destination—The Salvation Army (TSA). The bus driver insisted that Rodriguez would get the help he needed at TSA by first checking into the shelter. Knowing that he would not get much farther on that bus and that he indeed needed help, Rodriguez followed the bus driver’s advice. He checked into the shelter and met Mr. Willie, the shelter manager at that time. “He showed me he was there for me,” Rodriguez said of Mr. Willie. “I’m grateful because I reached out my hand [for help] and TSA gave it
to me.” Rodriguez stayed at the shelter for two months. Then, upon Rodriguez’s request for rehabilitation, TSA sent him to a Salvation Army Rehabilitation Center in Tyler, Texas. The four-month program not only transformed Rodriguez but allowed him to start working again. He stayed in Tyler working as a custodian for TSA for about four years. Within his first year there, he remembers the TSA shelter opening its doors to people who lost their homes to a hurricane that hit nearby Houston.
He helped give out meals, blankets and hygiene items. “I humbled myself,” Rodriguez said. “I saw a lot of the need and realized life is too precious; you can go like this (snaps his fingers) at any time.” When Rodriguez found out his father was ill in McAllen, he decided to move back to the Valley. He ended up working for TSA in McAllen as a custodian and then as a donation truck driver for about eight years. In 2008, TSA Divisional Headquarters in Dallas dispatched the McAllen
Corps canteen, or mobile feeding unit, to Texas City and Galveston for Hurricane Ike relief. Rodriguez drove the canteen to the area and stayed there for three weeks delivering meals that the Southern Baptist Disaster Relief volunteers cooked daily for Hurricane Ike victims. “While delivering meals over there, I met a wealthy banker with his family—his wife and three kids,” Rodriguez recalled. “The lady was crying. They had lost their home and everything in it. But I told her that she didn’t lose everything. She had her family right there with her.” Today, Rodriguez enjoys sharing his testimony and words of hope to others. Since his rehabilitation in 1994, he has been sober and drugfree. Rodriguez confesses that it has been difficult for his family to trust him again. But his advice to those who struggle with addictions is that “nothing is impossible with the Lord.” •
www.welcomehomergv.com • • • January 20, 2016
Pharr Community Theater Seeking Piano Teachers and Folkloric Outfits
Special to Welcome Home RGV
The Pharr Community Theater Co.
(PCT) and its After-School Training in the Arts Program is searching for ongoing volunteer piano teachers to work with beginner piano students from ages four to adult, any day, Monday-Thursday, from 5:00-7:00 p.m. Teachers can teach one day out of the week or more and will receive a gas stipend. Classes will be held in Pharr at 317 W Gore St. Also needed are folkloric outfits for boys and girls (from young children to teenagers). If you or an organization you know are able to donate the costumes (second-hand costumes or those in need of minimal repair are also accepted), they would be very much appreciated and would be put to good use. The Pharr Community Theater Co. is a nonprofit 501(C) (3) and is located at 213 W. Newcombe in Pharr.
For more information, please call our After-School Training in the Arts coordinator, Gerry Rodriguez, at 956-400-9547 or Adriana Guerrero/PCT-CEO at 956-600-9463. •
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January 20, 2016 • • • Welcome
Home WINTER TEXAN • • • your official connection to the rio grande valley
www.welcomehomergv.com • • • January 20, 2016
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Tee Time in the RGV:
An Introduction to Valley Golf Courses Harlingen Country Club Welcomes Winter Texans! Special to Welcome Home RGV
This
week’s feature golf course is one of the premier courses in the Valley, located in Palm Valley, a strong community of friends and neighbors. It is a member-owned club offering numerous amenities and featuring a premier 18-hole golf course. This private club welcomes Winter Texans to play at a special rate for the season. As a Winter Texan, you can play for $42 with a cart. You simply need to call the Pro Shop for a tee time. “Pay and Play” discount cards are also available in five-round increments. The club offers non-resident memberships at an incredible rate, and they also have monthly allinclusive rates for those who want to make Harlingen Country Club their home-away-from-home course. The course was opened in 1968 and designed by Leon Howard and Dave Bennett. Fairways are common Bermuda while the greens are Champion Bermuda. The layout of the course has a number of water hazards and sand traps to keep play interesting. The practice facilities on the course consist of a driving range, as well as chipping and putting
5500 El Camino Real Harlingen, TX 78552
956-412-4100
greens. They have a fully stocked Pro Shop and also offer golf lessons and clinics for players of all levels. From the championship tees the course measures 6541 yards and is rated for men at 71.6/128. It has three other sets of tees that are rated for both men and women. They are 6261 yards rated for men at 70.2/123 and 78.2/135 for women, 5625 yards rated for men at 67.1/113 and 74.1/128 for women and 5035 yards rated for men at 64.2/105 and 70.3/120 for women. Par for this course is 72. After golf, you will want to enjoy a cold, refreshing beverage and a delicious meal on the gorgeous patio
overlooking the golf course. You will find a very embracing staff who will greet you with a warm smile and gracious hospitality. They say hospitality is their way of life, and you will see what they mean. Harlingen Country Club hosts many prestigious events, including the South Texas Junior Golf Classic and the Life Begins at Forty Golf Tournament, which is a match-play event for players from all over the country.
More information is available on our web site at www.harlingencc.com or by calling 956-412-4100. The facility is located at 5500 El Camino Real in Harlingen. Come experience why Harlingen Country Club is “THE COUNTRY CLUB OF THE RIO GRANDE VALLEY!” •
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.
Gladys Porter Zoo Honored with Quarter Century Award Special to Welcome Home RGV
The
Gladys Porter Zoo has been honored by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums with the prestigious Quarter Century Award. This new award, established in 2015, recognizes facilities that have maintained 25 years or more of continuous AZA accreditation, highlighting their commitment to animal care, welfare, conservation, education, and more. The Gladys Porter Zoo was first accredited in 1978 and has maintained that status for 38 years. In order to be accredited members of the association, institutions must complete a thorough review to ensure that they meet, and will continue to meet, rising standards for animal care, conservation, education, and safety. Zoos and aquariums must successfully complete the accreditation process every five years. The process includes a detailed application and a meticulous on-site inspection by a team of trained zoo and aquarium professionals. The team
observes all aspects of the institution, including animal care, keeper training, educational programs, conservation efforts, veterinary programs, financial stability, risk management, visitor services, safety for visitors, staff and animals, and other areas. Once inspection is completed, the institution’s top officials are interviewed at a formal hearing of AZA’s independent Accreditation Commission. From that point, accreditation is either granted, tabled, or denied. The lengthy process ensures that only the best institutions receive accreditation. The Gladys Porter Zoo, along with 118 other zoos and aquariums from all over the world, will be awarded a plaque honoring their achievement of more than a quarter century of AZA accreditation. •
Tip of Texas Family Outreach Hosts Charro Days Mixer February 18 Special to Welcome Home RGV
Tip of Texas Family Outreach, a nonprofit organization, will be hosting a
Charro Days Mixer Thursday, February 18, from 5:30- 9 p.m. at the center, located at 455 E. Levee in Brownsville. Tickets are $20 per person and include taquiza, botanas, drinks, and live entertainment. Proceeds from this mixer will benefit Tip of Texas Family Outreach and our child abuse prevention programs. Tickets are available for purchase at our office or by calling 541-5566. Let’s meet at the Charro Days Mixer! •
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January 20, 2016 • • • Welcome
Home WINTER TEXAN • • • your official connection to the rio grande valley
Why Caregivers Deserve Our Thanks…and More Special to Welcome Home RGV
There
are more than 3.4 million unpaid family caregivers in Texas. It is with pride that we extend our thanks to each one of them. Family caregivers are the meal givers, the medicine givers, the compassion givers. They help their loved ones bathe and dress, prepare meals, drive to medical appointments, assist with finances, and much more. Some perform complex medical tasks like giving injections, managing complicated medications, or cleaning wounds – often with little or no training. Many provide this 24/7 care while working full-time without a break. Caregivers often sacrifice their time, money, and even wellbeing to ensure that their family member is given the ability to live comfortably in their home and out of costly institutions. But in the process, caregivers can sometimes lose sight of the importance of taking care of their own needs and are often taken for granted, despite the high value of care they maintain. The cost of care unpaid family caregivers provide in Texas alone is estimated to be $35 billion a year, and it is $470 billion worth of care provided nationally. That amount is more than the annual sales ($469 billion) of the four largest U.S. tech companies
combined (Apple, Hewlett Packard, IBM, and Microsoft). At AARP, we believe family caregivers aren’t recognized nearly enough; they not only deserve our thanks, but they deserve our support. Caregiving is a labor of love, but it’s also often an incredibly time-intensive one. There is information about support, resources, as well as stories of hope and perseverance. Last year, AARP worked with Texas lawmakers to encourage their support of the CARE Act, which would have helped family caregivers transition their loved ones from a hospital stay to their home. The legislation didn’t become law, but lawmakers boosted funding for home and communitybased assistance that allows many seniors to receive care at home rather than in costly nursing facilities. Whether it’s at the Texas Capitol or in neighborhoods around the state, AARP will continue to advocate on behalf of unpaid family caregivers throughout the state. We also will continue to extend our deep gratitude for the many things that they do. For more on caregiving resources, go to aarp.org/caregiving. •
www.welcomehomergv.com • • • January 20, 2016
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January 20, 2016 • • • Welcome
Home WINTER TEXAN • • • your official connection to the rio grande valley
GLO South Padre Island Winter Beach Cleanup Rio Grande Valley Woodcarvers’ 30th Annual Show and 18th Annual Rally on the Rio Set for February 12 Special to Welcome Home RGV Join us for a Wintertime Beach Cleanup on the RGV coast! Special to Welcome Home RGV
Texas Land Commissioner George
P. Bush is calling on volunteers in the Rio Grande Valley for the 20th Annual Winter Beach Cleanup Friday, February 12, at South Padre Island. Registration begins at 8:30 a.m. The cleanup will take place from 9 a.m. to noon. Volunteers are asked to wear closed-toe shoes and bring plenty of drinking water. Adopt-A-Beach will provide all necessary materials. Check-in: Edwin Atwood Park Access Road 5, off of SH 100 27159 State Park Road 100 South Padre Island Contacts: Blanca Macias - 956-761-5494 or blanca.macias@texasadoptabeach.org Cindy Escobedo - 956-761-3700 or cindy.escobedo@texasadoptabeach.org The Winter Beach Cleanup is one of three all-volunteer seasonal cleanups coordinated through the Adopt-ABeach program of the Texas General Land Office. Most trash found on Texas beaches is left there by litterbugs. Since 1986, Adopt-A-Beach volunteers
have picked up 9,200 tons of trash, which is the equivalent to the weight of 44 blue whales, making it one of the most successful volunteer programs in the nation. Volunteers record data on the trash to learn more about the causes of marine debris and to help mitigate pollution along Texas’ 367 miles of coastline. The Texas General Land Office’s Adopt-A-Beach program is funded primarily by private contributions. To help out, or for more information, call the Adopt-A-Beach program at 1-877-TXCOAST or visit our website at www.texasadoptabeach.org. You can follow Adopt-A-Beach on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ TexasAdoptABeach or on Twitter at www.twitter.com/txadoptabeach. •
The Rio Grande Valley Woodcarvers
(RGVW) is a nonprofit club of approximately 150 members and guests. Club members and their guests gather every Thursday morning from 8:00 am until noon at the Nomad Shrine Club (1044 W. Nolana Loop in Pharr) from October through the end of March. The RGVW is dedicated to providing instruction and a place for carving and fellowship for anyone interested in the art and craft of woodcarving. Members welcome newcomers to carving, as well as experienced carvers. There are often impromptu mini-classes in carving, as well as assistance for all carvers with questions. Everyone is welcome. If you have any interest in woodcarving, drop by and see what is going on Thursday mornings. Each year they host two major events. Friday and Saturday, January 22 and 23, the club is hosting its 30th annual two-day woodcarving show at the Cielo Banquet Hall (1101 E. FM 495, San Juan). Carvers from dozens of different states, as well as Canadian provinces, will be showing their carvings. Texas carvers will be showing carvings executed in mesquite and other local woods. There is a donation of $3.00 (or $5.00 for a couple) to
help defer the cost of the site. Show hours are from 10:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. each day. There are 70 tables with all types of carvings displayed, as well as hourly door prizes. Many of the carvings are for sale. Tool and wood vendors are available for all the supplies you need. There is an excellent carving competition with as many as 150 entries. This year’s judges are Orlando Villarreal and Gary Falin. The 18th Annual Rally on the Rio (at the same location) follows the show and will be held Monday, January 25. The rally has 20 top carving instructors from across the United States. There are six days of classes. Most classes are two-to-three days long. Classes are from 8:00 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. daily. Classes include realistic carving, fish, waterfowl, relief, and caricature carving, as well as wood burning, chip carving, and many other types of carving. There are classes for all skill levels, from beginners to experienced carvers. For more information, you can go to the Rio Grande Woodcarvers’ web page at www.rgvwoodcarvers.org. You can also contact Fred Stenman at 651-485-0580 or Jim Crawford at 956-279-6013. •
www.welcomehomergv.com • • • January 20, 2016
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Opening Reception for
George Tobolowsky at IMAS! Special to Welcome Home RGV
The
International Museum of Art & Science is extremely proud to present Is This the Road I’m On?, an exhibition featuring indoor metal sculptures by George Tobolowsky. Tobolowsky, a Dallas native, uses found metal objects to create abstract indoor sculptures in the modernist tradition infused with a healthy dose of wit. Tobolowsky has participated in over 50 one-person and group exhibitions during the last decade, and his work can be found in dozens of collections, both public and private. The exhibition Is This the Road I’m On will run from January 30 to May 22, with an opening reception Saturday, January 30 from 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. The International Museum of Art & Science has also
installed five of his large-scale sculptures outside of the museum at the corner of Bicentennial Drive and Nolana Avenue in McAllen and another five around the city. We hope you will be able to meet this outstanding artist and explore his unique works with us before April 30. The opening reception is included in the price of general admission and is FREE for IMAS members. General admission is: $7 for adults, $5 for seniors (+55) or students with I.D., $4 for children (412). For more information, please contact IMAS at 956-682-0123, visit www.imasonline.org, or visit the IMAS front desk. The International Museum of Art and Science is located at 1900 W. Nolana Avenue in McAllen. •
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January 20, 2016 • • • 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. •
www.welcomehomergv.com • • • January 20, 2016
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RGV ADVENTURE CONTINUED FROM PAGE 28
conversation, with an intense, anxious look on his face. Watching as the man spoke into his phone, Frank quickly had everyone finish and get on their way. Arriving at the Mission Chamber, Frank had seen a truck following them from the restaurant and was getting nervous. “I think we’re being followed,” he said as they crowded into the lobby. “We need to find out as much information here as we can, quickly, and get going.” “We do have a 900-year-old tree,” the receptionist explained. “It’s kind of hard to find, but I can give you the directions if you like. It’s off the beaten track and would make a great place for the photo shoot you’re describing.” Soljo had moved to the front seat of the monster truck, drinking in everything he saw. “If I could only stay awhile and learn more, I could help my people live better. Would that be possible?” Soljo was a mature 13-year-old, caring deeply for his people. Seeing the truck following out of his rearview mirror, Frank thought it impossible for Soljo to stay any longer than necessary. They needed to get him back as soon as they could, even though there were so many questions not answered. How is it they could understand Soljo? How could he possibly know English? Will his going back to his time disrupt the time line? What will happen to Soljo? Will his people even believe him, or would they think it great magic? Could one of the five go back to ensure his safety? Now that was another grand adventure in the making.
Reaching the tree, way out in the fields and backlands of the Valley, they saw the navy blue, four-door pickup on extra-high tires coming their way, kicking up dust as it hurried toward them. “Do you remember? Is this the tree, Soljo?” Sadie asked, hurriedly. “Oh, yes, I was on that limb there.” He pointed up to a large limb in the bald cypress towering in front of them. “Go, Soljo! Hurry, before that truck gets here. We don’t know who that is, and it could be trouble,” Jack said. “I’m going with you so we know you arrived safely. I’ll then turn around and come back.” Soljo stripped down to his loincloth and sandals and began climbing rapidly up the tree, Jack following. “Be careful, Jack. Watch yourself,” George called after him. Jack and Soljo climbed out on the limb as the vehicle turned the corner toward them. The four watched the truck, keeping an eye on the two reaching the limb. Sliding to a stop with stones and dirt flying, the driver didn’t see the two on the limb disappear through a twinkling light. “My, my, what a stop! Are you OK?” Phyllis asked, pleasantly, in her most professional tour-director voice. “Where is he?” demanded the rough voice from the truck. “Who would that be?” smiled George, tilting his head inquisitively. • (To Be Continued)
Roda Grubb, writer/reporter/storyteller/author, recently published her latest book, Everelle’s Quest, an Isle of Foote novel, and also writes locally for the McAllen Chamber and MISD. www.rodathewriter.com
BEATLES TRAIL CONTINUED FROM PAGE 29
to Strawberry Fields. (Not the original gates; they’ve been removed for safety, but you’d be hard pressed to tell the difference.) If you want to see some of the places where The Beatles played during their time in Liverpool, there are dozens of the theatres and community halls still standing within a 10mile radius of the city. For North Americans used to long distances between cities, remember that the UK is very compact and travel is very easy. Manchester is only 27 miles from Liverpool, London is a two-hour train trip, and Dublin is only a 55-minute flight away. If you visit the magnificent Central Library, you can see another piece of Beatle history--not a musical piece but proof that Sir Paul McCartney could turn a phrase long before he penned the hits that changed popular music forever. The young Sir Paul wrote a stirring piece about “our lovely Queen”
to celebrate the coronation of Queen Elizabeth in 1953 and entered it into a competition as a 10 year old. It is now part of the archive and on display in the library. In addition to all of the above attractions, there is a wealth of heritage and history in Liverpool. Just a few of the other attractions are the Beatles Story Museum, Penny Lane, and of course you must take a ferry across the Mersey. Don’t miss the Walker Art Gallery and The World Museum, both housed in splendid heritage buildings, You will also want to see the Albert Dock and also the new Museum of Liverpool, a modern addition to the World Heritage waterfront. The U.S. dollar to UK pound exchange rate has never been better, so what are you waiting for? For more visitor information check this site: www.visitliverpool.com. • Bernie Crawley is one half of the comedy and music duo Bernie & Red, performing in the Valley until February 2. You can contact him at bernie@bernieandred.com.
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January 20, 2016 • • • Welcome
Home WINTER TEXAN • • • your official connection to the rio grande valley
D From the Inside, Out D Sitting in the Back Pew
by Marge Flados
One
Sunday I decided to sit in the back-most pew of our church. I usually sit closer to the front than the back because I am better able to see the screens that project the words of the hymn and the order of the service. After I settled in my seat, I realized my side of the church, from just past the mid-section, was teeming with young couples with babies plus small, medium, and large children. Lutherans have always brought their children into the church sanctuary on Sunday, where they are expected to sit quietly while their parents listen to the pastor’s message. Nothing like that happens. The back pews are a beehive of activity, much of it having nothing to do with what is going on up front. The babies are taking milk and juice from nippled bottles, and the toddlers are snorfing Cheerios by the handful and washing it all down with something pink in a sippy cup, which they regularly drop onto the floor or offer to someone sitting in the pew behind them. The medium-sized ones are coloring the pages supplied for that purpose in the narthex. But they are also removing the paper wrap from the crayolas and tasting the peelings: some swallow, and some get it to the edge of their tongue and wipe it on their mother’s blouse. While the congregation is standing, the older kids are swinging their feet and asking to go to the restroom about every 12 minutes. Some are busy creating their own territorial prerogative by pushing and stacking books, Bibles, toys, bulletins, and diaper bags aside, usually directly under where their mother will sit when the pastor says, “You may be seated.” The parents are busy managing all of this activity: giving permission to use the restroom, quietly hushing the louder sounds coming from the younger ones, and offering a pacifier and retrieving it from under the pew when expelled like a rubber bullet. Parents stretch out their legs to make little play pens between them, and the smallest ones go back and forth from mommy to daddy. Every now and then, daddy or mommy gets an accidental crack on the head with a plastic toy. I was amazed to note that in spite of all the interruptions, the parents were still smiling at each other over something a child did or said. But I noticed another thing I didn’t know happened. One would only know this •••
Love That
Dish
Marge Flados
if you occupied a back pew: Everyone urinates often. All ages were going up and down the aisles, I assume to the restroom. Back and forth they went. Young and old. Lutherans must have bladders the size of an English walnut. I marveled at the number of young parents who get up early enough on Sunday to feed and dress their children, get to church by 10:30, and sit with children who would rather be elsewhere. This, because of a commitment to worship on Sunday. How they would derive anything from the pastor’s message is a mystery to me. I harked back to the days when Norman and I took three children to church on Sunday and expected them to sit and be quiet. I remember not getting that much spiritual uplift from the sermons in those days, as I am sure is the same for these young parents with whom I shared my Sunday worship service. I must admit, I enjoyed every minute of the service in the back pew. It was a trip down memory lane. As I departed and shook the pastor’s hand, I said, “Thank you for the interesting message.” What message? I didn’t get any message! I was watching the in-church-pew dynamic of the young families who attended our church. I doubt they could comment on the message either. But they were there. They were in God’s house on Sunday when it would have been easier to stay home. Message or not, it shows an appreciation for tradition and setting family standards. God will bless them for it! I will not sit in the back pew again. Not because I didn’t enjoy it back there, but rather, if I go to the trouble to get dressed and drive across town to attend my church, I need all my powers of concentration to be focused on the wonders and spiritual benefits of the Sunday worship service. • M. Flados is a resident of Harlingen and can be reached at nflados@rgv.rr.com
Is there a dish served at a restaurant in the RGV that you 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!” •
www.welcomehomergv.com • • • January 20, 2016
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• • • RECIPECONNECTION with Executive Chef Bettina Tolin • • • • • • • •
Banana Nut
Muffins
These delightful muffins are perfect for a casual weekend brunch, an afternoon picnic or a snack on the go! Rich, moist and delicious they are sure to make you smile!
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour 1/2 teaspoon baking soda 3/4 cup brown sugar, firmly packed 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon 2 cups ripe bananas (about 4 bananas) 1/2 cup vegetable oil 1/2 cup milk 2 large eggs, at room temperature 1/8 teaspoon fine salt 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract 3/4 cups chopped walnuts 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.
Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F. Lightly brush a 12-muffin tin with butter and set aside (or use muffin liners). Stir the flour, baking soda, brown sugar, and cinnamon together in a large bowl; set aside. Mash the bananas on a plate with a fork. Then whisk the banana, oil, milk, eggs, salt, and vanilla in a medium bowl. Make a small well in the center of the dry ingredients. Pour wet ingredients into the center; then stir gently with a wooden spoon until the dry ingredients are moistened but still lumpy. Do not over-mix the batter or muffins will come out dense and oddly shaped. Gently fold
in the nuts. Divide the batter evenly into the muffin tin. Put the muffins in the oven and immediately reduce oven temperature to 375 degrees F. Bake until golden brown, about 25 minutes, rotating the pan halfway through the cooking. (Insert a toothpick into the center of a muffin to check if it is done. Toothpick should come out clean). Cool muffins in the pan on a rack for a couple minutes. Turn the muffins out of the pan and cool on the rack. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Bon Appetit!
••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• This Week’s Recipe is Brought to You By:
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January 20, 2016 • • • Welcome
Home WINTER TEXAN • • • your official connection to the rio grande valley