Issuu

GOLF ANYONE?

Tee Time in the RGV features Treasure Hills Golf Club!

UPCOMING EVENTS!

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

RECIPE CONNECTION!

Executive Chef Bettina Tolin shares one of her recipes!

Welcome Home See review on page 13.

See calendar on page 7.

VOLUME 1 • ISSUE 2 • October 28, 2015

Try her recipe on page 23.

WINTER TEXAN

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

WOW! Winter Outdoor Wildlife Expo is back! Special to Welcome Home RGV

Another week has flown by, and it

has been so much fun to see so many of you out and about! While people up north look forward to the leaves changing color, I look forward to seeing license plates from Iowa, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Illinois, Canada, and all of our other northern states. That’s how I know you’ve come home. I look forward to another exciting winter season and participating in events and activities where we are bound to run into each other. The season revolves around a number of things: food (and a lot of it!), entertainment and activities, music, and lots of fun events. But I have to say, the single most important thing is the friendships we create and nurture along the way. Friendships and fellowship are what keep you coming back to our wonderful Valley. This season, we want to foster that friendly spirit and continue to be an important piece of your conversations. If there is something exciting happening or you know of a special person or activity you think your friends need to know about, please share the stories with us! We have been overwhelmed by your kind words about our now weekly publication. We want you to know it is all about YOU--your thoughts, your interests, your events, and your pictures! Drop us a line, and let us know what you’d like to see in future issues. We will do our best to make your wishes our commands! Let’s get the conversations going. Can’t wait to see you all! • We’re just connecting the dots,

Kristi

After

a successful 20-year run under the command of St. Andrew’s by the Sea Episcopal Church, Winter Outdoor Wildlife Expo is back and in a new home. South Padre Island Birding and Nature Center is coordinating the 2016 WOWE. South Padre Island’s popular annual event will run January 26 – 30, each day showcasing a special theme. Opening day is about the unique Lower Valley ecology and environment, including Laguna Madre, wetlands, shrimping industry, thorn scrub ecosystem, ocelots, alligators, and turtles. Other days highlight fish and fishing, native plants and their relationship to critters in the Valley, and birds from migration to shore birds to Valley specialty birds. Activities wrap up with a Saturday family day with many hands-on activities, special programs, and learning experiences. Nationally acclaimed Master Falconer and Wildlife Rehabilitator Jonathan Wood returns to WOWE Friday and Saturday, offering three shows daily. This most-requested entertaining and educational show with 20 amazing birds of prey features eagles, hawks, falcons, and owls. Ralph Ayers, former coordinator from St. Andrew’s by the Sea Episcopal Church, helped initiate and develop WOWE. Ayers said the time had come to pass on organizing the event. “After 20 years, the popularity and extent of the expo became more than our congregation felt comfortable managing. This is such an important educational opportunity to Valley visitors, we didn’t want it to

discontinue,” Ayers said. “We took great care finding an appropriate new manager and venue where we felt the tenets of this valuable event would be carried on.” The South Padre Island Birding and Nature Center, only six years old, has quickly developed into a favorite stop in the Island’s tourism package. Locals and visitors alike tread the boardwalks daily, searching the wetlands and bay for new arrivals and permanent winged residents. Nature center Manager and Marketing Director Cristin Howard continually seeks activities to wow

visitors. “I was excited when I was approached with the possibility of taking on the WOWE event. The nature center is always looking for ways to increase educational opportunities and keep visitors coming to our facility,” Howard said. Because of space limitations, the center will present the expo in a different style, but the content and original intent of the show will be kept. More than 40 nature presentations will be offered throughout the expo. Nature-related vendors and local nature organizations will exhibit. Nature center volunteers, St. Andrew’s by the Sea Episcopal Church members and members of the Rio Grande Valley Chapter, Texas Master Naturalist are coordinating WOWE with the SPIBNC. Carolyn Cardile, RGVCTMN education director, is chairing the WOWE committee. For more information or to consider presenting a nature workshop, contact choward@spibirding.com. •

A SPECIAL THANK YOU TO OUR 2015-2016 SEASON SPONSORS

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

Free Diabetes Walk, Screenings Scheduled for Saturday October 31 at Fair Park in Harlingen Special to Welcome Home RGV

A free “Walk in the Park” Diabetes Walk has been scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 31 (Halloween Day) at 8 a.m. at Lon C. Hill / Fair Park, 1402 Fair Park Blvd. in Harlingen. Free blood sugar testing, along with registration, will begin at 7:00 a.m. that morning. At the walk, participants can choose to walk 1.2 miles, 2.4 miles or three miles. T-shirts will be given to the first 300 registered walkers (including children). Walkers will also receive a free hemoglobin A1 test for diabetes from the Valley Baptist Community Reference Lab. In addition, there will be free flu shots for the first 200 participants, free foot screenings by Valley Baptist Wound Care, blood pressure checks, a body composition (BMI) screening by the Valley Baptist Surgical and Medical Weight Loss Program, with healthy snacks. In addition, participants at the event can ask questions to a doctor with the Valley Baptist Family Practice Residency Program, ask a

Welcome Home

WINTER TEXAN

your official connection to the rio grande valley

Publisher Kristi Collier

pharmacist about medications, and / or talk with a dietitian from Aramark Healthcare about healthy eating. There will also be screenings and / or health information available from the Valley Baptist Stroke Program, Valley Baptist Cardiovascular Care, the Valley Baptist Health and Fitness Center, the Rio Grande Valley Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics; and the High School for Medical Technologies, as well as information on health insurance and organ donation. The walk, which is sponsored by the Valley Baptist Diabetes Center and the American Diabetes Association, is being held as a kick-off to National Diabetes Month in November, to raise awareness of the impact of diabetes in the Rio Grande Valley. Valley Baptist opened a Diabetes Center, certified by the American Diabetes Association, in 1982 at Valley Baptist in Harlingen. A similar certified program in Brownsville, at Valley Baptist-Brownsville, began in 1996. In addition to classes in

managing diabetes, the Valley Baptist Diabetes Program offers free support groups for the community. For more information on diabetes and diabetes management, contact your physician and the Valley Baptist

Boys and Girls Club of McAllen Weekly e-Blasts

Teachers Teens and Pre-Teens to Soar Special to Welcome Home RGV

This

kristi@welcomehomergv.com

Accounting Sharon Flores

sharon@welcomehomergv.com

Administration Amie Gray

agray@welcomehomergv.com

Colette Brookins

colie@welcomehomergv.com

Sales & Marketing Cheryl Palacios

cheryl@welcomehomergv.com

Marie Sanchez

marie@welcomehomergv.com

1st Responder Coordinator Rita Huether rita@welcomehomergv.com

Activity Coordinator Fran Adams

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Contributing Writer Chris Ardis

news@welcomehomergv.com

Graphic Design Jenny R Carpenter silentBYTES design

artwork@welcomehomergv.com

Welcome Home

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.

Diabetes Center, at (956) 389-1119. To register for the upcoming diabetes walk, please call 1-888-902-5433 (LIFE). Registration will also be available on site the morning of the event. •

past summer, Boys and Girls Club of McAllen participated in the Zero Robotics Middle School Summer Program. Through the Texas A&M Engineering Department, a select group of summer attendees, ages 1013, participated in this innovative and inspiring program. The fiveweek STEM curriculum introduced members to computer programming, robotics, and space engineering, and provided L to R: Joshua Hill, President of VIP Travel Consultants, hands-on experience James Martinez, BGCM Chief Professional Officer, and Elva Estrada, Leisure Travel Manager programming SPHERES (Synchronized, Position, Hold, Engage, Reorient, Experimental Satellites). Zero Robotics builds critical engineering skills, including problem solving and teamwork. It connects members with prominent scientists and encourages them to pursue careers in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and/or math. VIP Travel Consultants, in partnership with McCreery Aviation, donated two discovery flights for teens who successfully completed the summer Zero Robotics program. Four teens will be able to take flight in McCreery Aviation’s Discovery Flight program. VIP Travel Consultants hopes this opportunity will open teens to the possibility of considering a career in aviation or the aviation industry. •

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!

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

Cooking Up Some Nostalgia Special to Welcome Home RGV

with

Phyllis Diller

George Bush Texas Broccoli “Thing” The reason President Busy hates broccoli is because the cook at his home (he was a rich kid) simply boiled it, put it on his plate and said: “Eat it!” Broccoli needs a little selling and a lot of dressing up. This delicious Southwest dish appeals to everyone, even George, because it is irresistibly delicious. This dish can also be served as a dip. • 2 10 oz. pkgs. Frozen chopped broccoli • 4 green onions, chopped • 4 ribs celery, chopped • 2/3 cup margarine • 2 3 oz. cans sliced mushrooms • 2 10-3/4 cans cream of mushroom soup • 1 6 oz. roll garlic cheese • Worcestershire sauce • Tabasco sauce • Salt & Pepper • Bread Crumbs Saute broccoli, onions and celery in margarine for 10 to 15 minutes. Add mushrooms, soup, cheese, and seasonings; stir until cheese melts. Pour into 2 quart casserole. Top with bread crumbs. Bake at 350 degrees about 30 minutes. May be frozen before baking.

Seriously Simple Seafood Sublime Place in a bake dish: • 3 large shelled uncooked shrimp • 3 mussels • 5 clams • 5 oz. sole Mix • 1 cup white wine • 1 cup tomato sauce Pour over seafood Bake at 350 degrees for 20 minutes Serve over rice in flat soup bowls The juice is divine Serves 3

Mexicale Hot Stuff Party Din-Din • 1-1/2 lb. ground beef • 1 medium onion, diced • 1 can cream style corn • 1 (10-1/2 oz.) can tomatoes with green chiles • 1 (8 oz.) can enchilada sauce • 8 oz. grated Cheddar cheese • 1 (4 oz.) can slice ripe olives • Diced green chiles, oregano, cumin, garlic powder to taste • 6 large tortillas • 1 cup grated Jack cheese Brown ground beef, stirring to keep meat crumbly. Combine ground beef with onion, creamed corn, tomatoes with green chiles, enchilada sauce, Cheddar cheese, ripe olives and diced green chiles, oregano, cumin, garlic powder to taste. Tear 3 tortillas into pieces and spread over the bottom of an 11 x 7 x 2” baking dish. Spread half the meat mixture over the tortillas. Tear remaining tortillas and spread over meat mixture. Top with remaining meat mixture. Sprinkle with Jack cheese. Bake at 325 degrees for 30 minutes. Makes 8 to 10 servings.

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. •

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

Non-Profit Spotlight:

MAKING CONNECTIONS

The Vannie E. Cook Jr. Children’s Cancer and Hematology Clinic in McAllen Special to Welcome Home RGV

Non-Profit Name: The Vannie E. Cook Jr. Children’s Cancer and Hematology Clinic Address: 101 W. Expressway 83 McAllen, TX 78503 Phone Number: 956-661-9840 Website: vanniecookchildrensclinic.org Who is the executive director? Victoria Guerra Director of Development Victoria’s Email: vam275@gmail.com How and when did your organization begin and who does it serve? The Vannie Cook Clinic opened in June of 2001 to serve children in the Rio Grande Valley who are suffering from cancer or serious blood disorders. Prior to opening, children had to travel to receive this life-saving treatment.

Where is your organization located and what are the hours of operation? We are located in McAllen, TX and are open Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. What kind of donations does your nonprofit organization need? Monetary donations, arts and crafts, books, snacks What kind of volunteer opportunities do you have for Winter Texans, Valley retirees, and others in our community? Individuals or groups who are willing to lead arts and crafts activities with the patients Do you have any upcoming events you would like Welcome Home RGV readers to know about? Friends For Hope Concert featuring Sammy Kershaw November 7 at Las Palmas Race Park • Alma and one of our patients.

Lots in Store for You at the Habitat ReStore Special to Welcome Home RGV

Habitat ReStore is a place where you can find hidden treasures at a great

price and, at the same time, fund the good work Habitat for Humanity does in the Rio Grande Valley! Visit our new location at 1305 Oklahoma St. in Harlingen or our main location at 412 W. Ash Avenue in McAllen. Feel free to call our office for more information at 956-686-7455. •

Shop or Drop (donate!) at ReStore.

www.welcomehomergv.com

Getting to Know AARP in the Rio Grande Valley Special to Welcome Home RGV

is likely you have seen or heard the “You don’t know AARP” commercials on the radio and television. But what is AARP? AARP is a non-profit, nonpartisan, social welfare organization with a membership of nearly 38 million that helps people turn their goals and dreams into real possibilities, strengthens communities, and fights for the issues that matter most to families, such as health care, employment and income security, and protection from financial abuse. For more than 50 years, we have served as a one-stop information center. In the Rio Grande Valley, we are working tirelessly to ensure that people, age 50 and older, get the information and help they need to empower themselves and their futures. For example, you will often see AARP holding free document and small electrical device shredding events. Offering this service for free helps community members dispose of sensitive information without worry. It’s all part of the AARP Fraud Watch Network. “Helping those who care for others in their lives” is a program many seek to attend. In all, more than five million Texans are unpaid family caregivers for an adult loved one. During Caregiving Connection events, family caregivers learn more about government and nonprofit services and resources available to

them. We’ve also held TEK (Technology Education Knowledge) sessions in which participants experience the latest technology through hands-on training. They are taught how to use tablets, smartphones, and other devices. The idea behind the high-tech sessions is to give older residents the knowledge to use digital devices, which will keep them connected to their family members and friends and to the passions in their lives. The tech-newcomers also learn about web sites and apps. Creating livable communities is important to us and our target audience, and last year the City of Brownsville joined AARP’s Network of Age Friendly Communities. The idea is to make Brownsville an even better place to live for people of all ages and abilities. Empowering our 50+ community by offering free training and resources is at the forefront of AARP’s work in the Rio Grande Valley. Veronica de Lafuente is AARP’s associate state director of outreach and advocacy in the Valley. She is working, along with volunteers, to empower you with knowledge.It is AARP’s volunteers who make our advocacy efforts strong. To become an AARP volunteer, call 888-687-2277. To see what we are doing in the Rio Grande Valley, call 1-877-926-8300 or visit www.aarp.org/ tx and click on the “all events” link. •

Mercedes Christmas Parade and Festival of Lights Scheduled Special to Welcome Home RGV

The

Annual Christmas Parade of Lights will be held in Mercedes Friday, December 4, 2015, starting at 6 p.m. Hosted by the Mercedes Area Chamber of Commerce, the theme is “The Sounds of Christmas.” After the parade, the Festival of Lights, hosted by the Mercedes Independent School District, will take place at the Frances Cooper Event Center. Currently, the Parade Committee seeks marching bands, competitive and non¬competitive floats, marching/cycling/walking groups, dancers, magicians, clown groups, antique cars, and equestrians who will join the celebration of the parade theme, “Sounds of Christmas” A $30 entry fee will be charged to all competitive floats. Cash prizes of $1000, $750, $500, $300, and $200 will be awarded to first, second, third, fourth, and fifth place recipients, respectively. The starting point will be the

intersection of Sixth Street and South Texas Avenue in Mercedes. The parade will then travel north on Texas Ave. into the Rio Grande Valley Livestock Show Grounds. At that point, the Festival of Lights will take place. All entries must have completed an entry form and turned it in to the Mercedes Chamber Office at 417 S. Ohio, with their fee, by 5 p.m. Thursday, December 2. To receive information on entry forms, rules, and waiver forms, please contact the Chamber Office at 956-565-2221 or visit www.mercedeschamber.com to find the link to download the forms. •

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

From the Inside, Out by Marge Flados

How we walk tells a great deal

about us: our age, our physical condition, our mental state, our station in life, and how we regard ourselves among our peers or superiors. How odd that it should be so. From our first faltering steps, we walk in our unique way-some shuffle, some swagger, some mince, and some tromp. Children walk confidently, placing their feet without thought to safety or misstep because they know that if they fall, the chances are good their bones won’t break as a result. Interestingly, my very first memory is of a misstep on a stairwell and the resulting tumble to the bottom of the steps, the pain in my head, and my mother’s comforting arms as she tried to ease it. When I worked as a nurse in an acute care hospital, I could easily detect who was the doctor and who was the tech as they walked down the hall, side by side in threequarter length white lab coats. I didn’t need to see their identifying badges to know which was which. How? The walk. A friend who traveled to Russia over a dozen times told me she learned a strange and wonderful thing about being a citizen of this country. She was riding in a taxi cab in Moscow, some years before Glasnost and Gorbachev’s

Marge Flados

dissolution of the U.S.S.R. She spoke fluent Russian, and during her ride in the taxi, the driver mentioned the fact that there were more Americans seen on the streets of Moscow than in the past. Then he pointed and said, “See. There is one over there.” She said, “How do you know that person is an American? He looks to me like he could be Russian.” He answered, “You can tell Americans by the way they walk.” “The way they walk?” “Yes,” he said. “They walk free.” She told me she had traveled widely but had never realized that free people walk differently, but since that time, she began to see that it was true. Free people walk freely. How interesting to learn that how we Americans walk sends a message to others. How we walk is the physical evidence we show the world about who we are. Americans walk freely! I pray, may it be forever. • M. Flados is a resident of Harlingen and can be reached at nflados@rgv.rr.com

The Marketplace at Lamar: Fundraising Fun for Science Labs

Special to Welcome Home RGV

Exciting news! We are working to upgrade our science labs at Lamar

Academy in McAllen ISD. We have partnered with Boggus Lincoln for a Driven to Give event. This is an incredible opportunity; the school will receive $20 for each person who test-drives a car in the Lincoln line-up, including the new 2016 MKX. Everyone is invited to attend and drive! (Only one person per household is able to test drive.) As part of our day, we are hosting The Marketplace at Lamar with a fiesta on the lawn. Popular local vendors with holiday ideas, live music, and food trucks will make it fun for the whole family! Call your friends, family, and co-workers to come and be a part of our efforts! It will mean so much to our students and school when you and your friends spend time with us at Lamar Academy November 7. •

www.welcomehomergv.com

DANCE ENTERTAINMENT & SHOWS

CALENDAR OF EVENTS WEEK OF

October 28 - November 3, 2015 WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 28, 2015 Volunteer Mornings, 8:30 AM, Quinta Mazatlan, 600 Sunset Drive, McAllen Dates: Every Wednesday & Saturday 8:30 am to 12:00 noon (Year Round) Ages: All ages welcome (14 and under with the supervision of a parent or guardian only) Fee: Free for Volunteer Work. Exhibit Display: Electricity, 9:00 AM, International Museum of Art & Science, 1900 W. Nolana Avenue, McAllen Electricity will be on display from October 3, 2015 to January 6, 2016. For more information on Electricity or any other IMAS exhibit, please visit www.imasonline.org or call (956) 682-0123. Participate in our yearly Christmas Tree Forest Exhibit!, 09:00 AM, International Museum of Art & Science, 1900 W. Nolana Avenue, McAllen The IMAS Guild Presents the 2015 Christmas Tree Forest. For more information visit our monthly calendar at www.imasonline.org Project Insight Support Group,

JAM SESSIONS

MEALS

SALES

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

go-to source for our retirees to check out the lighter side of the Valley by listing entertainment events, dances, meals, jam sessions, meetings, and even garage sales. For more information on submitting your events and activities, please email calendar@welcomehomergv.com. The deadline for submission is Mondays at 5:00pm. •

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/ Garden Talk & Walk, 10:00 AM, Quinta Mazatlan, 600 Sunset, McAllen $2.00 Seniors For information call 956-681-3370. Entertainment w/Jack Kay - Lost in Time, 1:30 PM, American Legion Post 37, 1305 E. Jasmine Avenue, McAllen Sloppy Joe’s & Drink Special. For information call 956-682-7841. WRRH Stroke Support Group, 3:00 PM, Weslaco Regional Rehabilitation Hospital, 906 S. James Street, Weslaco FREE Admission to RSVP, please call 956-969-2222. Maxan Street Farmers’ Market, 4:00 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 956433-9675. Overeaters Anonymous, 05:00 PM, McAllen Public Library: Lark Branch Library, 2601 Lark Avenue, 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 Homemade Spaghetti, 05:30 PM, Weslaco Elks Lodge, South Border Avenue, Weslaco $7 per plate, comes with the works. Dance w/Bottomline Band, 07:00 PM, Tip O’Texas RV Resort, 101 E Sioux Road, Pharr $5.00 pp

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 29, 2015

through March. For more information contact Bob at 972-220-9285 Naming Britain’s 1st National Bird, 6:00 PM, Quinta Mazatlan, 600 Sunset Drive, McAllen By David Lindo & Touring a Birders Paradise in Spain by Vanesa Palacios. Happening every Thursday evening in the fall to spring starting in October 2015 - April 2016 Valley Transplant Support Group @ McAllen Medical Center, 6:30 PM, 4th Floor, HBO Waiting Room, McAllen Medical Center, 301 W. Expressway 83, McAllen Nov. 29 (Last Thursday of every month) 4th Floor, HBO Waiting Room

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 30, 2015

FREE Zumba Classes, 10:00 AM, South Padre Island KOA, 1 Padre Habitat Tram Tours, 9:00 AM, Laguna Blvd, South Padre Island Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge, For information call 956-761-5665. 22688 Buena Vista Boulevard, Los Dance Lessons w/Bob Battaglia, Fresnos 10:30 AM, Mission West, 3805 W. Tickets sold first come, first served Highway 83, Mission the day of the tour. Call 956-748Cost for Admission Lessons 3607 ext 108 for more information. included. Country western two step, Our open air tram is wheelchair waltz, swing and cha cha. Lessons accessible. can be joined at any time. November Open Variety Jam, 12:30 PM, Casa SCHEDULE OF EVENTS CONTINUED ON PAGE 8 >>

Meet You Soon: Find Comfort at the Country Omelette Paul Chilton with

Country Omelette,

a well-established restaurant in McAllen, has recently (in February) moved to a new location. Entering the restaurant, you immediately feel the country cozy atmosphere in the new decor! It is warm and inviting and beckons you to come in, sit down, and enjoy a hearty breakfast. Country Omelette serves both traditional and Mexican-style breakfasts, depending on your particular taste. Their omeletes are light and fluffy and prepared many different ways, just the way you like

them. A variety of other breakfast selections are available, too. All are sure to satisfy the most discerning taste! If you get in a little later, they offer an extensive menu for lunch. Featured are the best burgers you ever ate! Both breakfast and lunch

are served from open to close. The extensive and efficient staff is ready and willing to serve you, always making you feel welcome. They’re sure to let you know about daily specials. Refills on your drinks will not disappoint, and the coffee pot never runs dry. When you leave, you will be full from the comforting food and service and will want to come back often! Country Omelette is now at 3420 N. 10th St. in McAllen, close to HEB and Delia’s Tamales. Their phone number is 956-618-3560. Stop in soon. You will be very pleased with what you both see and taste! Meet you soon at the Country Omelette! •

Paul Chilton is a Winter Texan who hails from Naperville, Illinois. He and his wife enjoys dining out and tasting different dishes the Valley has to offer. He looks forward to sharing his love for food and his experiences meeting others through this weekly article.

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 7 Del Sol, 400 N. Val Verde Road, Donna Refreshment available at Break For information call 956-464-2272. Friday Fish Fry, 5:30 PM, Weslaco Elks Lodge, 201 South Border Avenue, 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

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 31, 2015 Songbird Stroll, 8:00 AM, Quinta Mazatlan, 600 Sunset, McAllen Note: Large groups, please call in advance. $3 adults, $2 students & seniors For information call 956681-3370. Bird Walks @ Resaca de la Palma, 8:30 AM, Resaca de la Palma, 1000 New Carmen Blvd. Volunteer Mornings, 8:30 AM, Quinta Mazatlan, 600 Sunset Drive, McAllen Join our volunteer coordinator for a fun morning of work and learning in our native gardens! Fee: Free for Volunteer Work. 20th Annual Texas Butterfly Festival, 9:00 AM, National Butterfly Center, 3333 Butterfly Park Drive, Mission Volunteers Needed! If you are interested in donating your time as a volunteer, please contact Angie at angie@nationalbutterflycenter.org, or at 956.583.5400. Santa Ana Nature Walk, 9:00 AM, Santa Ana National Wildlife Refuge, Alamo $3. 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 Farmers Market, 9:00 AM, 6th St & Harrison, Brownsville, TX, Brownsville has its own farmer’s market each week, across the street from Gladys Porter Zoo. http://www. brownsvillefarmersmarket.com/ SPI Birding & Nature Center Guided Nature Tour, 9:30 AM, SPI Birding & Nature Center $3 plus admission Senior Saturdays, 10:00 AM, International Museum of Art &

Science, 1900 W. Nolana Avenue, McAllen $5 General Admission Includes FREE Coffee. For information call 956-682-0123. Trick or Treat: Halloween Celebration at IMAS, 10:00 AM, International Museum of Art & Science, 1900 W. Nolana Avenue, McAllen $2.50 pp. For information call 956682-0123. The Market @ McAllen, 10:00 AM, McAllen Public Library Every Saturday the community will now have access to local farmers, ranchers, chefs, and artisans each contributing to the healthy life style changes our community desperately needs. Driven to Give, 12:00 PM, International Museum of Art & Science, 1900 W. Nolana Avenue, McAllen FREE Admission IMAS would like to thank our friends at the Boggus Ford Lincoln Dealership and Lincoln, for their support. For more information, please call (956) 682-0123 or visit www.imasonline.org. Country Jam, 12:30 PM, Green Gate Grove, 700 N. Bentsen Palm Drive, Mission Lunch is served from 11:00 am 12:00 pm. For more information call 956-581-2932. Harlingen Farmer’s Market, 3:00 PM, Downtown Harlingen, The Market location is on ‘A’ Street between Jackson and Monroe, behind Grimsells and in front of New York Deli. Blues and/or Classic Rock, 7:00 PM, American Legion Post 37, McAllen Buckets of bottle beers only $10.00 1305 E. Jasmine Avenue, McAllen, TX 78501 956-682-7841 Halloween Dance Party, 7:00 PM, Paradise South RV Resort, North Mile 2 West Road, Mercedes $5.00 pp. For information call Nancy 956-825-9509. Prizes for 1st, 2nd & 3rd Place Costume Halloween Dance w/SweetWater, 7:00 PM, Trophy Gardens RV Resort, 800 Hwy 495, Alamo $5.00 pp For information call 956783-1003. Halloween Party & Dance, 7:00

PM, Sleepy Valley Resort, 2301 N. Abram Road, Mission $5.00 pp For information call 417588-1588. Port Isabel Historic Ghost Tours, 8:00 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, NOVEMBER 1, 2015 Church Services, 8:30 AM, Winter Haven Mobile Home Village, 1015 West Sam Houston Boulevard, Pharr, Non-denominational service. Service starts at 8:45 am. Pastor Robert Kracht. Communion first Sunday of each month. Everyone Welcome Church Service, 8:45 AM, Oleander

DANCE

Every Saturday FREE Popcorn and Ice Dance w/Furytones November 7 • 7:00 PM $6.00 pp • BYOB Dance w/Fred Goldsberry November 14 • 7:00 PM $6.00 pp • BYOB Dance w/SweetWater November 21 • 7:00 PM $6.00 pp • BYOB Dance w/Diego November 28 • 7:00 PM $6.00 pp • BYOB

Acres RV Resort, 2421 S. Conway Avenue, Mission For information call 262-497-4241. Church Service, 9:00 AM, Citrus Valley RV Park, 2901 W. Hwy 107, McAllen Pastor Jim Troutman Communion service 1st Sunday of the month. For information call 956-383-8189. Church Service, 9:00 AM, Fiesta Village RV Park, 205 S. Stewart Road, Mission For information call 956-585-9264. Church Service, 9:00 AM, Trophy Gardens RV Resort, 800 Hwy 495, Alamo Non-Denominational Service with Pastor Darrel Hardy For information call 956-783-1003. Church Services, 9:00 AM, Winter Ranch RV Resort, 600 State Hwy 495, Alamo, Pastor Frisby Worship Leader. Fellowship at 8:30. Coffee, cookies and desserts. Church Services, 9:00 AM, Hidden Valley Ranch, 1900 Long Drive,

HAPPY HOUR Happy Hour w/Diego November 5 • 3:00 PM Pass the Hat • BYOB

JAM

Every Friday November 13 • 2:00 PM November 20 • 2:00 PM November 27 • 2:00 PM

KARAOKE

Every Wednesday Karaoke w/Harry & Judy November 4 • 5:00 PM November 11 • 5:00 PM November 18 • 5:00 PM November 25 • 5:00 PM BYOB

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DANCE ENTERTAINMENT & SHOWS Mission Coffee and refreshments available at 8:30. Services with Pastor Cameron Gillette. Village Chapel Church Service, 9:00 AM, Tip O’Texas RV Resort, 101 E. Sioux Road, Pharr For information call 956-787-6461. 22nd Annual World’s Championship Shrimp Cook-Off, 10:00 AM, Intersection of Hwys. 100 & 48 Parking Lot $5.00 pp The Annual festival is a favorite among area residents and visitors and tests the skills of amateur and professional chefs throughout the RGV. In addition to great food and a variety of vendors, the festival also offers live music by “The Agency” and activities for kids of all ages. Original artwork,gifts, and collectibles can all be found in one location. For information call 956-943-2262. Farmer’s Market @ The Shores, SPI, 11:00 AM, The Shores, 8500 Padre

UPCOMING SCHEDULE November 2015 Saturday, November 14 Paradise South Mercedes 7-10 pm Dance

December 2015 Thursday, December 3 End Of The Trail Donna 3-7pm Saloon Thursday, December 10 End Of The Trail Donna 3-7pm Saloon Saturday, December 12 Palm Garden Harlingen 7-10pm Dance Thursday, December 17 End Of The Trail Donna 3-7pm Saloon Friday, December 18 Palm Resaca Brownsville 7-10pm Dance Thursday, December 31 Gateway Park Raymondville 8-12:30pm New Years

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-1p Dia de los Muertos, 1:00 PM, International Museum of Art & Science, 1900 W. Nolana Avenue, McAllen, $5.00 pp

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 2, 2015 Happy Hour w/Diego, 3:00 PM, Snow to Sun, 1701 North International Boulevard, Weslaco Pass the Hat BYOB. Wine and beer sold at bar. Free ice. For information call 620-441-1173. Magic Valley Chorus Of Sweet Adelines International, 07:00 PM, St. Mark’s United Methodist Church, McAllen, Shirley 956-661-9926. Janet 956-682-8245. Practices held every Monday 7-10 pm @ St.

JAM SESSIONS

MEALS

Mark’s United Methodist Church, McAllen

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 2015 Songbird Stroll, 8:00 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. For information call 956681-3370. Backyard Habitat Steward Workshop, 9:00 AM, Quinta Mazatlan, 600 Sunset, McAllen $60.00 pp Pre-registration required. For information call 956-681-3370. FREE Zumba Classes, 10:00 AM, South Padre Island KOA, 1 Padre Blvd, South Padre Island For information call 956-761-5665. Diabetes Management Class, 1:00 PM, 3rd Floor, McAllen Medical

SALES

Center Every Tuesday, 1 p.m. East Classroom, 3rd Floor, McAllen Medical Center Classes are provided in English and Spanish every other week. For more information, please call Mary Escaname at 956-9715850. Round Dance Lessons w/The Ski’s, 1:00 PM, Tip O’Texas RV Resort, 101 E. Sioux Road, Pharr For information call 956-787-6461. Happy Hour w/Lynn Dvorak, 3:00 PM, Snow to Sun, 1701 North International Boulevard, Weslaco Pass the Hat BYOB. Wine and beer sold at bar. Free ice. For information call 620-441-1173. Overeaters Anonymous, 6:30 PM, Unity Church, Pharr Are you having problems with food? Join us for an informative meeting on how to control your cravings. Carmen 956-884-9909

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956-687-5115

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2nd Annual “A Season of Hope” Arts Festival: Celebrating Education and the Arts Special to Welcome Home RGV

welcome the community to join in our festivities as we kick off our 2nd Annual A Season of Hope Arts Festival, a two-day holiday event at McAllen’s Art Village on Main. It begins with the lighting of the tree at 6:00 p.m. by Mayor Jim Darling, Friday, December 4. Immediately following the lighting of the tree, everyone is invited to visit the Event Center at Art Village on Main, where artwork created by McAllen ISD students in grades K-12 will be on display until 9:00 p.m. This exhibition will be held in conjunction with McAllen’s ArtWalk. Enjoy McAllen High School’s nationally recognized mariachi group, Mariachi Oro, as they perform at the art exhibit. A Season of Hope Arts Festival will continue Saturday, December 5, beginning at 10:00 a.m. and ending at 3:00 p.m. Come out and appreciate MISD performing arts students as they perform, throughout the day in the courtyard, as well as in the Event Center. Shop at the assortment of professional artists’ booths as they exhibit and sell their masterpieces of jewelry, paintings, photographs, sculptures, and other media. Exhibiting artists had to go

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

through a lengthy selection process before being chosen to participate in this annual event. All of their works of art that are for sale at A Season of Hope Arts Festival are original, handcrafted pieces. Most are one-of-akind. Don’t miss the demonstrations! The South Texas Clay Club will have some clay wheels at A Season of Hope Arts Festival and will be throwing clay

Friday evening and all day Saturday. The 2nd Annual A Season of Hope Arts Festival, a McAllen holiday tradition, celebrates visual and performing arts education and artists in the Rio Grande Valley and encourages young people in our community to explore and appreciate the Arts. Proceeds from the professional artists’ application fee and the selected artists’ booth

fees provide scholarships for 12 students. Six high school and six middle school student will each be awarded a scholarship in one of the following six categories: drawing, mixed media, painting, printmaking, photography and digital art, and 3-D. For further information about A Season of Hope Arts Festival, contact Yoli Cantu at 956-687-8682. •

Volunteering in South Texas is Easy!

Connect Through a New, Free Volunteer Engagement Tool Special to Welcome Home RGV

United

Way of South Texas is excited to share that a new opportunity to connect volunteers with meaningful service projects right here in Hidalgo and Starr Counties of South Texas has arrived! It’s called Volunteer South Texas (volunteersotx. org) and, best of all, it’s FREE! Are you an individual or team that wants to impact lives in South Texas by volunteering? Are you a non-profit organization, school, or governmental institution that wants to easily advertise volunteer opportunities, in-kind needs, and special events to our communities? Do you want the whole process to be user-friendly and web-based, one that can be accessed from your computer, smart phone, etc.? Log on to Volunteer South Texas at volunteersotx.org or click on the Volunteer Now button on the

Volunteer Now Page of the United Way of South Texas web site. Then sign up as a User (prospective volunteer) or sign your agency up (one that needs to recruit volunteers). Almost 50 agencies in Hidalgo and Starr Counties have already begun posting their volunteer needs and events, so check out the Volunteer South Texas (volunteersotx.org) web site today! You can read each agency’s story (who they are, what they do, and how you can get involved). You can even check out the calendar to see

what one-day volunteer opportunities are available on a particular day or weekend so your family or team can make plans to serve. Over 1,100 people visited the platform in the month of September, even before we officially launched the website October 1! Please join United Way of South Texas in its mission to “improve lives by mobilizing the caring power of our community to advance the common good.” For more information about Volunteer South Texas (www. volunteersotx.org), please call United Way of South Texas at 956.686.6331 or email Gloria Ann at gloriaann@ unitedwayofsotx.org. Let’s connect thousands of South Texas volunteers to meaningful service projects right here at home! •

www.welcomehomergv.com

Human Rights Exhibit on Display at IMAS Trick or Treat: Halloween Celebration at IMAS Special to Welcome Home RGV

Special to Welcome Home RGV

Looking

October 8, 2015, the International

Museum of Art & Science (IMAS) welcomed its latest exhibit, Human Rights Art Exhibition: Works from the Permanent Collection at South Texas College. The Human Rights Art Exhibition is comprised of a growing collection of more than 50 pieces of artwork that are part of the college’s permanent collection. The STC Art Department developed the permanent collection over the last 10 years from generous donations by participating artists who exhibit in their Annual Human Rights Art Exhibition each spring. This exhibit serves as an educational tool and addresses global and regional human rights, social justice, and environmental issues. Through the collection’s conceptually and aesthetically unique pieces, artists hope to connect with viewers, on an emotional and personal level, while bringing awareness to human rights issues and encouraging contemplation, refection, and activism. Human Rights Art Exhibition: Works from the Permanent Collection at South Texas College will be on display October 8, 2015 through January 3, 2016. It is included in the price of general admission and is FREE for IMAS members. General admission

for a fun and familyfriendly environment to celebrate Halloween? The International Museum of Art & Science (IMAS) is holding its 2nd Annual Trick or Treat: Halloween Celebration Saturday, October 31, 2015, from 12:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Admission to the event will be half price admission. That is right, HALF PRICE admission! Additionally, visitors of all ages will be able to partake in our special activities.

Dress up your goblins and ghouls and bring them to IMAS for a frighteningly good time! Channel your inner mad scientist with spooky science demonstrations. Meet some creepy crawly animals, dig your hands into science experiments with a little bit of blood and gore, and create an eerie work of art. Costumes are encouraged! For more information, please call (956) 682-0123 or visit www. imasonline.org. •

Photographed: “Home is Where”, Margi Weir. Digital Print, 2013.

is: $7/Adult, $5/Senior (+55) or Student with I.D., $4/Child (4-12). For more information on Human Rights Art Exhibition: Works from the Permanent Collection at South Texas College or any other IMAS exhibit, please visit www.imasonline.org or call (956) 682-0123. •

The International Museum of Art & Science is fully accredited by the American Alliance of Museums, is a Smithsonian Affiliate and a member of the Association of ScienceTechnology Centers. The mission of the International Museum of Art & Science is to promote a deeper appreciation of the arts and sciences through exhibitions, cultural events, and educational programs; and to preserve, expand, and display its permanent art and science collections. The museum is located at the intersection of Bicentennial Way and Nolana Avenue. Monday: Closed; Tuesday and Wednesday: 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.; Thursday: 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.; Friday: 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.; Saturday: 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.; and Sunday 1:00 to 5:00 p.m.. SUMMER HOURS OF OPERATION: Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday: 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.; Thursday: 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.; Friday: 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.; Saturday: 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.; and Sunday 1:00 to 5:00 p.m. IMAS provides $1 general admission to the public every Thursday evening from 4:00p.m. to 8:00p.m. Log onto http://www. imasonline.org or call (956) 682-0123 for more information.

Show-N-Tell at The Lamb’s Loom: Be one of the PEGS because every peg is important Special to Welcome Home RGV

All the pegs on a loom join together to make gifts of God’s Love to be shared with others – Join us and come be one of the PEGS! You can help out in so many ways, not just loom knitting! We need YOU to come be a part! • Volunteer in the shop • Help teach a class • Give a monthly donation to help with overhead/start-up costs • AND, most of all, PRAY over all that is going on, that we will serve God’s purpose well together! •

“May the favor of the Lord our God rest on us; establish the work of our hands for us— yes, establish the work of our hands.” - Psalm 90:17

P ray E ncourage G ive S erve 1209 Pecan Blvd. • McAllen, TX 78501

956-607-6855

thelambsloom@gmail.com thelambsloom.blogspot.com

Every day, we are blessed by so many who put their talents to work to help fill our donation chest. There are soooo many beautiful and unique items made by sooo many precious people…our cup overflows!

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

PARK NEWS

Tourism Expert Dr. Peter Tarlow speaks to RGV parks Special to Welcome Home RGV

The

Rio Grande Valley Chapter of the Texas Recreational Vehicle Association held a workshop with tourism expert Dr. Peter Tarlow at Sunshine RV Resort in Harlingen on Monday, October 19. Over seventy attendees from resort managers to local tourism professionals, participated in the Dr. Peter Tarlow workshop. Dr. Tarlow is a world-renowned and included discussions on the speaker on the tourism industry, importance of a common marketing event and tourism risk management, message, ways to take advantage of and economic development. Since word of mouth opportunities and the 1990, Tarlow has been teaching necessity to educate the resort staff courses on tourism to tourism on the area. For more information on TRVA professionals throughout the world. The goal of the workshop was to or to get involved, please contact bring awareness to the changing Chapter President John Dearinger trends and demographics of the (VIP La Feria) or any current TRVA mature market. The three hour member. The membership roster workshop was highly interactive can be found at www.rgvparks.org. •

Trophy Gardens Welcomes David and Marilyn Nickerson Special to Welcome Home RGV

Trophy

Gardens’ Activity Department has new faces this season. Trophy Gardens welcomes David & Marilyn Nickerson , who were both born and raised in Oklahoma. In the past, both David and Marilyn owned and operated their own business. David had a print shop, and Marilyn had her own beauty salon. For the past 20 years, they have owned a property management business together and worked in that field. David and Marilyn enjoy working with organizations that allow them to make a difference in the active lifestyles of residents. David is a talented singer and enjoys singing for the public. He also is very computer literate and enjoys working on the computer with graphic design and layouts for advertising and marketing.

David and Marilyn Nickerson

Marilyn is very organized and is always looking for the most effective way to approach a new task. She enjoys decorating; most recently she and David completely renovated their activity office at Trophy Gardens. In their spare time, they enjoy fishing, flea markets, and trips to the Gulf of Mexico. • (Editor’s Note: Welcome Home RGV welcomes David and Marilyn, too!)

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Tee Time in the Rio Grande Valley: An Introduction to Valley Golf Courses There’s Lots to Treasure at Treasure Hills Special to Welcome Home RGV

The

Treasure Hills Golf Club in Harlingen is open to the public, and the staff considers it the best layout in the Valley. It is an 18-hole course, designed by Robert Trent Jones, Sr., that plays to a par 72. The course has scenic rolling terrain and water hazards on many of the holes. Treasure Hills has two practice greens, as well as a driving range. In 2001-2003, the club hosted the Adams Tight Lies Tournament. Many PGA tour players took part in this tournament. They included Ryan Palmer and Bubba Watson, both winners on the PGA Tour. Fairways on the course are 328 Bermuda grass, while the greens have 419 Bermuda grass. The course has three sets of tees rated for men. They are 6960 yards with a 74.7 rate and 134 slope, 6424 yards with a 72.2 rate, and 129 slope and 5422 yards with a 67.1 rate and 113 slope.

3009 N. Augusta National Dr. Harlingen, Texas 78550 956-365-3100 956-425-1700 Joe Cardenas Skip Cisneros

Director of Golf

Golf Professional

TreasureHillsGC@aol.com Joe Cardenas and Skip Cisneros are the PGA golf professionals and are available for lessons for both men and women. They can be reached at the course (956-365-3100) or at their office (956-425-1700). The course is located at 3009 N. Augusta National Drive. Treasure Hills Golf Club is definitely a Valley treasure! •

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.

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

Would You Like a Warranty Against Heart Disease?

by Arie Blitz, MD, MBA

Coronary

artery disease (CAD) is one of the most common killers of men and women. According to the American Heart Association, one American dies of coronary artery disease every 84 seconds. Many of these deaths occur in patients who never had any symptoms before. CAD is also one of the leading causes of advanced heart failure. The good news is that there is a safe, non-invasive, and inexpensive test that could provide individuals with low-to-moderate risk with a ‘warranty’ against heart disease for 15 years. The test is called the Coronary Artery Calcium (CAC) Score, and it is a type of computerized tomogram (CT) scan that does not require dye to produce an image of the heart. The scan measures the amount of calcium in the arteries of the heart. Calcium deposits can appear years before heart disease symptoms, such as chest discomfort and shortness of breath, develop. The CAC test takes fewer than five minutes and does not require a prescription or order by a doctor.

medical terms, a warranty is defined as providing relative assurance that your risk of dying each year is less than 1 percent. Your score on this exam may also help cardiologists date your blood vessels. A 70-year-old with a CAC score of zero implies a vascular age of only 40 — or 30 years younger than the person’s chronological age!

Terms of the ‘Warranty’ A CAC score of zero on this test was found to provide a ‘warranty’ against death for 15 years in people without symptoms of heart disease, according to a study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology (JACC). In other words, a clean result on the scan means men and women with low-to-moderate risk levels are very unlikely to die of coronary disease within the next 15 years. In

14 Years of Living Step by Step Special to Welcome Home RGV

Joel

Morales has been a part of Palmer Drug Abuse Program (PDAP) for over 25 years. Over the years, he has served the organization in different capacities and has grown to be a great example of how the program can and will work. Joel first walked through the doors of PDAP as a parent trying to find help for his teenager abusing drugs. What he soon had to admit was the child who was abusing drugs was stealing them from him. He, coming to the Family Support meetings under the influence, and the counselors were already onto him. Joel needed help, too, but wasn’t ready at that time. It took years of struggling with addiction for him to finally realize on his own that he was ready to stop. After 35 years of addiction issues, Joel knew where he needed to go. PDAP. It took Joel one year to work all 12 steps of the PDAP program. Once he completed the steps, he was so grateful to the program that he started to give back any way he could. Joel now leads the Family Support group on Tuesday and Thursday evenings, represents PDAP at different United Way presentations, and attends several different community outreach

opportunities. “We are truly blessed to have someone who is such a great example of how our program works. We are here to help you in your time of need, but the best part is giving back when you can. Joel does that for us all the time,” said Nadia Ochoa, PDAP’s executive director. Joel can tell you the key to his 14 years of sobriety is attending group meetings regularly. PDAP offers FREE drug and alcohol abuse counseling for individuals struggling with addiction and for their families. For more information or to schedule an appointment, please call PDAP at 956-687-7714. •

But What If I’m Already at Risk? A Coronary Artery Calcium Score test is not only for those individuals who are asymptomatic. In addition to providing a 15-year ‘warranty’ for lowto-moderate risk for men and women, this easy test can help measure the amount of buildup in the arteries and, therefore, detect early coronary artery disease. Knowing your risk can help you and your doctor develop an individualized treatment plan. You may wish to consider getting a CAC Score if you are experiencing any of the following symptoms of CAD: • Recurrent chest pain • Recurrent chest tightness • Recurrent chest heaviness • Especially any of the above

associated with shortness of breath • Especially any of the above associated with sweating • Especially any of the above associated with physical activity How to Get a CAC Score Test Cardiac Score CT screening is available at the McAllen Heart Hospital for only $99. Warranties on items such as appliances and electronic devices can cost hundreds of dollars, and the life of these warranties rarely approaches 15 years. Having the peace of mind that your heart is in good health is well worth the time and money it takes to get this simple, non-invasive test. Scheduling your CAC Score is easy. Call South Texas Health System’s pre-registration hotline at 956-388-2190 or register online at mcallenhearthospital.com/ cardiaccare. Appointments are required. Bring in this article to get a free safety light armband when you arrive at your screening. •

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

EducateRGV: Amputation Prevention Special to Welcome Home RGV

If someone asked to cut off your

toe, would you let him do it? Some people have to because it is too late. If we told you that you were at risk for an amputation, would you change your lifestyle habits? If yes, we can help you. At EducateRGV, the three main health issues we focus on that place people at risk are Peripheral Vascular Disease (PVD), Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD), and diabetes. We educate people on lifestyle risks, common symptoms, health issues that contribute to these diseases and how they affect your body, how to improve your health within our community, and specialists who are needed for amputation prevention. We have also organized several other health organizations that may assist you with other issues, such as food assistance

and DME (Durable Medical Equipment) supplies, within 48 hours. Unfortunately (and fortunately), it is estimated that about 80 percent of amputations could have been avoided with proper education and early medical detection. How can WE help educate YOU? We have 15-minute, live presentations available, an easy-to-use website with helpful videos, and a voiced PowerPoint presentation when live presentations are not available. We look forward to helping you at EducateRGV. Contact Vanessa Luna, EducateRGV health coordinator, at 956-438-8855, at educatergv@ gmail.com, or on our web site at educatergv.com. •

Mustang Market:

Students Supporting the Local Community Special to Welcome Home RGV

McAllen

Memorial Student Council will be hosting its 2nd Annual Mustang Market November 7 from 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. in the cafeterias of McAllen Memorial High School. Mustang Market is a huge sales event where various vendors from the community come in and provide the public with a one-stop shop to purchase items for the home and for the holidays. The entrance fee will be $3, $2 for senior citizens, and free for children 12 and under. All entrance fees will go to support the endeavors of the Memorial Student Council. Student Council is a student-led organization that does countless hours of volunteer work throughout the year in order to instill the values of servant leadership. Our students focus first on the growth and wellbeing of people and the communities to which we belong. To name just a few of Memorial StuCo’s activities, they have planted gardens with Keep McAllen Beautiful, done highway clean-ups with Adopt-aSpot, held pantry drives for Vannie Cook, and purchased gifts for Angel

Tree. Student Council is made up of four committees: Pride & Patriotism; Drugs, Alcohol, Safety, & Health; Environment & Energy; and Community Service. Each committee has its own personal projects, along with whole council projects. Whether it be putting together gift baskets for Teacher of the Month, painting posters for Red Ribbon Week, or hosting events for World Suicide Prevention Day, all of StuCo’s projects require supplies and funds. Hosting Mustang Market not only allows us to earn money to fund these projects but also allows us to give back to our community by opening the door to local vendors to sell their products. Memorial Student Council believes in supporting local businesses in order to keep money in the local economy and to celebrate the uniqueness of our community. Please make plans to attend and support this amazing group of students and local vendors. For further information, contact Heather Benitez at heather.benitez@ mcallenisd.net or by calling 956632-5201. •

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Enjoy a “Sweet Run”/Walk to Benefit Children with Diabetes Special to Welcome Home RGV

Enjoy

a “Sweet Run”/Walk to Benefit Children with Diabetes When Debra Franco’s son, Luke, was diagnosed with Type One diabetes four years ago, she went searching for support and found that the nowhere in the Rio Grande Valley was there an organization with the primary purpose of aiding children with juvenile diabetes. “We were so disheartened to not have any support for our son, much less other youth in the Valley. Juvenile diabetes requires a very different approach in care than adult diabetes. Juvenile diabetes is much harder to keep under control.” Franco and other parents of diabetic children created South Texas Juvenile Diabetes Association (STJDA) as a response to that vacuum. STJDA is hosting its third annual 5K Sweet Run (for runners and walkers) Saturday, Nov. 7 at Edinburg Municipal Park, 714 South Raul Longoria Road. The Sweet Run is meant to dissipate the idea that diabetics cannot have sweets; rather, they should limit the amount of sweets they eat. Zeina Qubbaj, who was diagnosed at age six with Type One diabetes, has been quite an advocate for STJDA. She says, “The Sweet Run is fun. I

loved that my father and brother were able to join me in the run the last few years. My mother was pregnant when the last run occurred.” Zeina notes that she is very proud to be part of the STJDA community. STJDA’s overall purpose is to raise

November is National Diabetes Month Wear blue!

For registration visit online www.stjda.org Children 10 and younger are free All proceeds go to STJDA 501(c)3 organization Awards given for largest team, best T-shirt design, most spirited Email info@stjda.org or call (956) 583-2463 315 N. Shary Rd • Suite 1016 Mission awareness and give support to youth who have juvenile diabetes. This support takes the shape of sponsoring events, such as a pool party, so these children can make and have friends who share similar struggles in dealing with diabetes. In addition, these gatherings allow parents and other family members to act as a support

group. Franco, current president of STJDA, notes that the organization has many goals. She states, “If we are able to have plenty of sponsors, vendors, and participants, STJDA can continue to assist families, free of charge. This furthers STJDA’s purpose, ‘Changing the RGV one diabetic child at a time.’” STJDA provides families with materials they may need, such as guide books and medical supplies for no charge. STJDA also promotes community awareness, especially in schools, by offering free diabetic information and training to faculty and staff on Rio Grande Valley campuses. In addition to making material available for juvenile diabetics and their families, STJDA offers Camp Freedom, an opportunity for juvenile diabetics to spend three days in the summer doing things kids any other camp might However, the primary focus is to demonstrate to participants that it is possible to do nearly anything they want and still manage the necessary care of their disease. “Camp Freedom is a fun way to further learn about the discipline we need in our lives to take care of our diabetes. However, it also reminds us that we can do so much more, if

we take care of ourselves.” says Luke Franco, participant of Camp Freedom and Debra Franco’s son. STJDA also provides newly diagnosed children a Spot Shots Build-A-Bear. The bear features multicolored spots on several parts of its body. These spots demonstrate where the child can inject insulin or take blood glucose level samples on their own body. The bears are donated by community partners, and STJDA depends on volunteers to hand-stitch the spot shots and help build the boxes, which cost upward of $200. STJDA treasurer Milly Hernandez says, “The Build-A-Bears are so adorable and yet serve a great service. Our Spot Shots Bears help comfort those who are newly diagnosed.” The Sweet Run is a major fundraiser for STJDA and enables the organization to continue to give families the materials they need, for free. Qubbaj said, “We are fortunate to have the Sweet Run and STJDA. It helps us to unite and help those of us who have a disease that has no cure.” To be a sponsor, vendor, or volunteer for the run or to volunteer in other capacities please let us know ASAP. Email Cynthia Baldwin at Cmbaldwin@stjda.org or call her at (956) 821-9503. •

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

Bill’s Adventures in the RGV By Bill Lang

column, Bill’s Adventures in the RGV, will be about different places or interesting places I have visited in the RGV via my bicycle, or, as for the present, my tricycle. Some places will be Anzalduas County Park, a ranch, Santa Ana National Wildlife Refuge, and the Alamo flea market, just to name a few. I have been, and I am still, an avid cyclist. I started riding a bicycle when I was four years old and I haven’t stopped. My bicycle is my freedom, my adventure, my life, and, I believe, the reason I am still alive. I have been organizing bicycle tours all my life, with the first multi-day selfcontained trip when I was 12 years old, riding with two of my cousins. Most of my tours have been one-day tours; however I have organized and lead tours of two weeks, from one other friend to as many as 125 riders for a seven-day tour. I still organize and lead tours with my friends. I do this for fun, not for profit. I also had a real job throughout life and raised four children in the meantime. We visited the RGV for the first time in 1998. When we retired in 2003, we started spending the winters at Casa del Valle in Alamo. We now spend a full six months at Casa del Valle. I learned the RGV by riding my bicycle everywhere and riding with Team McAllen Cycling. The RGV is a very unique place in the United States. I lead bicycle tours in the RGV quite often. I am from the Chicago, Illinois area. This is where I have spent all my life. Prostate cancer started slowing me down in 2001 when I had my prostate removed. I, then, cycled on a twowheeled recumbent. I thought my cycling days were over when I was diagnosed with terminal cancer on my 58th birthday, in 2006. Well, I was wrong. I was able to get back on my recumbent and still do what I love best--tour by bicycle. In 2010,

I thought bicycling was over for sure this time. The cancer was taking over, and I had to undergo lots of chemo and, eventually, a stem cell transplant. A lady in our park allowed me to ride her senior trike whenever I wanted to. One or two miles a day was all I could do. Another friend who had breast cancer was losing the battle. She had a recumbent trike. She made it known that I was to have her trike. That was in November of 2012. I started riding it and I rediscovered all the joys of cycling as I eventually revisited the many places where I used to ride my bicycle. I also purchased a trike in Illinois so I could ride year-round. In 2014, I cycled over 7500 miles on my trikes, and I am on track to do the same for 2015. I firmly believe the reason I am still alive is because of my cycling. Not only does cycling make me strong physically, but mentally also. Every ride is an adventure because of the things I see and the people I meet. Most people with multiple myeloma, the cancer I have, do not make it this long from diagnosis. • Welcome Home Winter Texan weekly readers will have the opportunity to “ride along” with Bill in his monthly column.

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2015 PIG FEST:

A Salute to South Texas Country Special to Welcome Home RGV

RMHC-RGV’s

Discover History: Experience the MOSTHistory

By Lisa K. Loebl, Marketing & Public Relations Officer at MOSTHistory

A tug of the wrought

iron horse-head door handle and heavy mesquite doors open to the sunlit Grand Lobby of the Museum of South Texas History (MOSTHistory). As one takes the first steps inside, a trainwhistle blows in the near distance, and a double staircase leads to exhibits shrouded in shadow and sounds of a prehistoric world. One quickly realizes that an experience at a history museum like no other awaits. Of the nation’s estimated 35,000 museums, just three percent are accredited by the American Alliance of Museums, a figure that includes MOSTHistory. Its historic and contemporary buildings of Spanish Colonial Revival architecture house state-of-theart exhibits spanning prehistory to the 20th century. The complex also includes the Museum Store, the Margaret H. McAllen Memorial

Archives and Will Looney Legacy Park. MOSTHistory provides a best first stop for tourists to learn about this historic borderland culture and heritage, and its largely untold story. To help tell the story, MOSTHistory offers year-round programs and seasonal special events, providing living history lessons. Ready to experience the MOSTHistory for yourself? TripAdvisor’s number one ranked attraction in Edinburg and 2015 winner of The Monitor’s Readers’ Choice Award for favorite museum awaits. •

2015 Pig Fest will be held Saturday, November 7, in McAllen. Proceeds from this event benefit the Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Rio Grande Valley. Event highlights include a “Hog Roast” catered by Chef Larry Delgado of SALT and house.wine & bistro. Enjoy complimentary beer and wine, Mystery Pigs, bucket and live auctions, a Whiskey Shack, The Gambler Card Raffle, “live” piggy races, and entertainment by Marshall Law! Please join us for all of the fun at Sofie’s “SS” Saloon in McAllen starting at 6:00 p.m. (Adults only) For 17 years, the Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Rio Grande Valley has been providing a ‘homeaway-from-home” for families whose seriously ill or injured children are receiving medical care at Rio

Grande Valley hospitals. We cover four counties, including Cameron, Hidalgo, Starr, and Willacy. Families can utilize our services at the Ronald McDonald House in Harlingen or at our Family Rooms, located inside Valley Baptist Medical Center and Edinburg Children’s Hospital. RMHC-RGV is currently seeking corporate sponsorships for this amazing event! Several different opportunities are available ranging from $500 - $5,000. Benefits may include event signage, name and/ or logo on RMHC-RGV website and on Facebook, recognition in event program, and company promotion throughout the evening. Come and help us salute South Texas country! See you at the 2015 Pig Fest! •

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

MOSTHistory is located in downtown Edinburg at 200 North Closner Boulevard on the Hidalgo County Courthouse square. For more information about MOSTHistory, visit MOSTHistory.org, like on Facebook/MOSTHistory, follow on Twitter/MOSTHistory, connect on LinkedIn/Museum of South Texas History, find on Google+/+MOSTHistoryOrg or call +1-956-383-6911.

Love That

Dish

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!” •

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RV QUICK TIPS

Easy RV Hacks: Next Ten Tips in Improving Your RV Lifestyle By Carrie Todd

What a mess. Another plate broke. Whether you

are relocating or settling in for a summer at your favorite RV park, there are things you can do to make your life easier, cleaner, and overall happier. Many of these tricks were learned the hard way, through trial and error. What if, instead of learning from your mistakes, you can pick up these simple RV hacks? Check out the next ten of the 40 tips that will follow in our “Easy RV Hacks” series. Save these tips or commit them to memory, then share them with other RVers to make their life easier, as well.

Organization Hacks

Create easy bed storage with a cut-up shoe organizer.

They can also be used for shower storage.

Keep electrical a d a p t e r s organized by mounting them.

Save space by using square containers instead of round ones.

Place tissue boxes in plastic, to keep them from getting wet or smashed.

Hold blackout curtains where you want them, with Velcro.

Create a wastebasket out of a dry f o o d c o n t a i n e r.

Kid’s Comfort Hacks

Keep things clean by using Press n’ Seal to turn a regular cup into a travel cup.

Use shower caddies with suction cups, to hold and organize activities for the kids, while on road trips.

20 kids.

Make a front seat hammock from PVC pipe for the

“This piece is brought to you courtesy of RVshare.com. RVshare helps RV owners earn up to $30,000 a year renting their RV when they aren’t using it.” http://blog.rvshare.com/rv-hacks-2/

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Enjoy Savings. Maximize Life.

COUPON

CONNECTION

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

SEE YOUR COUPON HERE!

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

Autumn Tortellini & Prosciutto Salad Serves 4-6 1 (10-ounce) package fresh cheese tortellini (can cook ahead of time, then cool and store in refrigerator for up to 4 days) 1/2 C toasted walnuts 1/2 C dried cherries 6 slices prosciutto 6 ounces mixed salad greens Balsamic Vinaigrette

Bring a pot of water to a boil over high heat. Add a teaspoon of salt and the tortellini, and cook until the tortellini float to the surface and are tender, 6 to 8 minutes. Drain and set aside. Heat the oven to 350°F. Place the walnuts on a baking sheet and toast until fragrant and beginning to brown, 5 to 7 minutes. Watch carefully, taking care not to burn them. Transfer to a cutting board and cool. Roughly chop walnuts. Roughly chop the dried cherries. Tear or cut the pieces of prosciutto into long strands.

Combine the cooled tortellini, dried cherries, prosciutto, and salad greens in a bowl. Toss with vinaigrette to coat — start with 2 tablespoons and add more to taste. Divide the salad between bowls or plates and sprinkle walnuts on top. Enjoy! Chef’s tip: To enjoy this delightful salad at an Autumn picnic or to take to the office, follow these simple make ahead steps. Combine the

tortellini, cherries, and prosciutto in a re-sealable container and toss with a tablespoon or two of balsamic vinaigrette (this prevents the ingredients from sticking together). Place the greens and walnuts in a separate container. When ready to eat, toss or shake the two together (add an additional tablespoon or two of balsamic vinaigrette if you like).

Bon Appetit!

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.

••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• This Week’s Recipe is Brought to You By:

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