GOLF ANYONE?
Tee Time in the RGV features Winter Gardens!
UPCOMING EVENTS!
RECIPE CONNECTION!
Check out our weekly listings of what’s happening in the RGV!
Executive Chef Bettina Tolin shares a side dish recipe for Thanksgiving!
Welcome Home See review on page 21.
See calendar on page 5.
VOLUME 1 • ISSUE 6 • November 25, 2015
Try her recipe on page 23.
®
WINTER TEXAN
• • • your official connection to the rio grande valley • • •
Spend Black Friday with us at IMAS! Special to Welcome Home RGV
Welcome In
the spirit of Thanksgiving, I’d like to say thank you, not only for choosing the Rio Grande Valley as your home away from home but for also being such a gracious, fun group. Your energy and enthusiasm for life bring joy to our office every day. At Welcome Home, RGV we are thankful for a wonderful work environment and a terrific audience. (That would be YOU!) If you didn’t know, I started this business in 2008. People say when one door closes, another opens. I lost my ‘real’ job in October of 2007 and wasn’t exactly sure what I was going to do. Luckily, I had a side business printing those coupon books many of you remember. I hit the streets and tried to convince as many of you as possible to purchase one! One thing led to another, and Welcome Home, RGV was born. Fast forward nearly eight years, and the staff of one has turned to a staff of 10! I’m so thankful for all of your kind words, suggestions, and lessons along the way. We are able to do what we do for you because of you. Not a day goes by that we don’t stop to appreciate all you do. Your presence allows us the opportunity to work with a great group of like-minded people who make work fun. Happy Thanksgiving! Know that all of us at Welcome Home, RGV are thankful for you! • We’re just connecting the dots,
Kristi
back Winter Texans. There is one activity you cannot miss! Join us at the International Museum of Art and Science (IMAS) on Black Friday, November 27th, from 10:00am to 5:00pm. Get your family’s special shopping done at IMAS and have fun with other Winter Texans all at once! Don’t forget to tear off the coupon below and bring it to IMAS for special savings in our Gift Shop. Enjoy painting with watercolors or acrylics in our Ann Moore Art Studio. Get a three dimensional view of current weather and seasonal changes with the IMAS Science on a Sphere. Check out our new PLANETARIUM, sponsored by H-E-B.! Be the first to see our IMAS Guild Christmas Tree Forest which are decorated by lots of handmade beautiful ornaments! Join us for these activities, take pictures to share with your friends and family members and see our latest exhibits – The Magnetism of Mexico City: select works from the Kenneth W. Grams, George Tobolowsky sculptures: Is This the Road I’m On? All activities included with general admission. International Museum of Art and Science is located at 1900 W. Nolana Ave., McAllen, TX 78504. For more information, please call (956) 6820123 or visit www.imasonline.org. Don’t wait. Just come in and spend a great time at the International Museum of Art and Science (IMAS). •
NOVEMBER 27 th
1900 NOLANA AVENUE, MCALLEN, TX 78504 956.682.0123 WWW.IMASONLINE.ORG
Spend $25.00 & get
$5.00 off Valid only on November 27, 2015 * Only for Black Friday at IMAS
A SPECIAL THANK YOU TO OUR 2015-2016 SEASON SPONSORS
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Welcome Home WINTER TEXAN • • • your official connection to the rio grande valley
There’s Nothing Like the Tamale Fest at Christmas in the Park Special to Welcome Home RGV
The
McAllen Tamale Fest started off as a small festival with 10 tamale vendors, 10 other food vendors, and 20 artisan vendors with 2,500 people in attendance. In 2014, the City of McAllen offered the McAllen Tamale Fest committee the opportunity to collaborate with them and the McAllen Chamber of Commerce’s Candlelight Posada to initiate a bigger and better festival named Christmas in the Park. The 2015 McAllen Tamale Fest will consist of a tamale-tasting competition, tamale-making classes, and the ever popular tamale-eating contest. There will also be live entertainment, children’s and family activities, artisan booths, tamales and food vendors, and a beer tent. People from all over the Rio Grande Valley are welcome to join us for some delicious tamales and other Hispanic-type foods from our vendors. The Boys and Girls Club would like to thank our sponsors, H-E-B, IBC Bank, L&F Distributors, Delia’s Tamales, and Linebarger Goggan Blair & Sampson, LLP, for helping make this
Welcome Home
event possible. Proceeds benefit the Boys and Girls Club of McAllen, which serves more than 11,000 children. “Fun with a Purpose” is our aim for the children who come through our door for after-school service, sports, and summer camp programs. Sponsorship, vendor, and volunteer opportunities are available. Tamale restaurants, cooking schools, and tamale makers are encouraged to participate in this event. For more information or to be a part of this festival, please call Daisy HinojosaMartinez or Ana Garces at 956682-5791. Visit our website at www.bgcmcallen.net and like us on Facebook at McAllen Tamale Fest. •
Weekly e-Blasts
®
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
Follow Us on Facebook!
Administration Amie Gray
agray@welcomehomergv.com
Colette Brookins
colie@welcomehomergv.com
Sales & Marketing Cheryl Palacios
Welcome
cheryl@welcomehomergv.com
Marie Sanchez
marie@welcomehomergv.com
1st Responder Coordinator Rita Huether rita@welcomehomergv.com
You can adopt angels from the following locations in McAllen:
Activity Coordinator Fran Adams
• Lee’s Pharmacy: 5120 N. 10th St., McAllen • Lee’s Pharmacy: 1920 S. 1st St #100, McAllen • Plain’s Capital Bank: 10th and Trenton, McAllen • LFD Home Furnishings: 23rd and Expwy 83, McAllen
fran@welcomehomergv.com
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.
Make sure all items for the child are marked with the code number of the angel. This will ensure that the gift(s) go to that specific child. Return the unwrapped gift by December 3rd to The Salvation Army 1600 N. 23rd St., McAllen, Texas 78501
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! •
OR YOU CAN ADOPT ONLINE!
https://holidays.communigift.com/o/the-salvation-army-mcallen-corps
For more information on the Angel Tree Program, please call 956-682-1468
www.facebook.com/whrgv www.facebook.com/wintertexan www.facebook.com/groups/wintertexansrgv
www.welcomehomergv.com
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Cooking Up Some Nostalgia Jazz it Up at the STC Jazz Combo Concert
Special to Welcome Home RGV
with Barbara Bush
Special to Welcome Home RGV
The
South Texas College Music Department is proud to present the STC Jazz Combo Concert featuring STC music students, faculty, and guest artists Tuesday, December 1, at the STC Cooper Center Theater starting at 7:30 p.m. The free and open-to-the-public concert, under the direction of Mr. Daniel Cather, will include well-known jazz repertoires, such as Caravan, A Night in Tunisia, Birdland, Mercy, Mercy, Mercy, and Waltz for Debby. The jazz concert will also feature original compositions written by STC Jazz Combo students and by Daniel Cather. Cather and his students are joined by Dr. Benjamin Coy on trombone, Michael Gersten on saxophone and clarinet, and Daniel Garcia on trumpet. Cather joined the STC music faculty in 2008. He received his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Eastern Illinois University, where he studied piano and composition. He was selected as the soloist to perform
Saint-Saëns’s Second Concerto I and Andante sostenuto and Prokofiev’s Concerto No. 3 I. Andante, Allegro with the orchestra for broadcast on public television and received the EIU Distinguished Graduate Student Award. Some of his musical directing credits include: Crazy for You, The Sound of Music, La Cage aux Folles, Honky-tonk Angels, Working, and A Year with Frog and Toad. During his tenure at STC, Cather started the first Electronic Music classes south of San Antonio and also launched the STC Jazz Ensemble. He also teaches Music Theory, Class Piano, Applied Piano, Composition, and Sight Singing and Ear Training courses and serves as accompanist for the STC Choir. In 2015, he received the NISOD Award for Teaching Excellence. Cather also serves as orchestra director at Calvary Baptist Church. He is an active composer, performer, and teacher in the Rio Grande Valley. •
Volunteer Opportunities with the Salvation Army
Special to Welcome Home RGV
First, we are celebrating 125 years
of the Red Kettle! Celebrate 125! Give $125! There is a wonderful sponsorship opportunity that will allow signage on our red kettle stand(s). Funds will go toward Christmas gifts for children from needy families, toward our soup kitchen and emergency shelter, and toward general assistance we offer to low-income households through our social services. Second, we have angels to adopt! This October, we registered over 1,500 children from low-income
CELEBRATING
125 years OF THE RED KETTLE
households in Hidalgo County who we want to make sure receive toys for Christmas. We have various locations where you can pick up a paper angel with a child’s wish and needs list. Or, you can adopt ONLINE at https:// holidays.communigift.com/o/thesalvation-army-mcallen-corps. And last, we welcome businesses/ organizations/individuals to volunteer! We have various seasonal volunteer opportunities, including our daily opportunities to serve in our kitchen and help sort donated goods in our store warehouse. Give us a call to sign up! •
Mrs. Bush’s Hot and Spicy Chili Dip • 2 cans chili • 1 can hot tamales • 1 T. Worcestershire sauce • 1/2 tsp Tabasco sauce • 1 cup shredded sharp Cheddar cheese • 6 green onions, thinly sliced • Corn chips Crush chili and hot tamales together. Add Worchestershire and Tabasco. Place in chafing dish. Top with cheese and onions. Serve hot with corn chips for dipping.
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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Welcome Home WINTER TEXAN • • • your official connection to the rio grande valley
RGV Jaycees’ Christmas Parade
ROCKIN’ THE RGV
in Downtown Harlingen December 4
How I Got a Pair
Special to Welcome Home RGV
of Red Skelton’s Trousers
Peace, Love & Joy is the theme of
the annual RGV Jaycees’ Christmas Parade in Downtown Harlingen Friday, December 4. This lighted spectacle will feature bands, floats, marchers, horses, and more. The parade will begin at 7 p.m. and proceed down Jackson from 4th to “E” Street. All participants must register online at www.rgvjaycees.com by 6 p.m. Monday, November 30. Parade entry fees and rules are available on the RGV Jaycees web site. Floats and entries will be judged by the parade theme. The Harlingen Christmas Parade has been organized by the nonprofit (Jaycees) since 1946 and is a favorite
by Bernie Crawley
Bernie.
holiday tradition. Parade viewing is free and open to the public along Jackson, which has served as Harlingen’s Main Street for more than a century. For more information, visit www. rgvjaycees.com or RGV Jaycees on Facebook. •
One of the benefits of being a travelling entertainer is, of course, the opportunity to visit new places. And for me, new places mean new thrift stores. I’m usually on the lookout for records and books and possibly musical instruments. Red. I’m more likely to be searching for vintage clothing. Bernie. In Indio, California, we were in the local thrift store, and after a good look around, I went for a coffee and left Red to it. When I returned, she still wasn’t ready to leave, so I had a look in the men’s clothing section. One pair of trousers on the rack seemed almost to leap out at me, and so I had a look to see the size, material, etc. However, no labels anywhere, so I took them to Red. “What do you think?” I asked. “Nice” she said. “What are they made of; what label?” “There’s no label in them.” “Give them here” she said, and do you know, between me having them and them getting into Red’s hands, this label miraculously appeared. Guys, don’t you hate that? Red. I had a quick look, and inside one of the pockets I found a tailor’s label. The tailor was Alberto Mariani of Rodeo Drive. The trousers were made in 1963, and the customer’s name? Mr. Red Skelton. We even had an argument then about buying them. Bernie thought $6 was too much. I said ‘Get them!’ So he did.” Bernie. In doing some internet research, I found out that Alberto
Mariani, as the name might suggest, came from Italy. He settled in California and soon opened his own tailor’s store in Beverly Hills, and truly did become the “Tailor to the Stars,” his most famous client being Ronald Reagan, who was a faithful customer throughout his presidential years. Hoagy Carmichael was another of many stars who wore Mariani. Vintage clothing is now big business, and there are a number of auction houses that specialize in this field. A vintage clothing blog that I recently visited stated, “If you find anything made by this tailor and it’s your size, BUY IT IMMEDIATELY.” I guess Red was right. • Reprinted from Our Story, the Bernie & Red autobiography. Bernie & Red are entertainers who perform in the Valley during the month of January. Bernie Crawley is one half of the comedy and music duo Bernie & Red, who perform throughout the Valley every January.
www.welcomehomergv.com
DANCE ENTERTAINMENT & SHOWS
CALENDAR OF EVENTS WEEK OF
November 25 - December 1, 2015 WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 2015 Christmas Craft Sale, 07:00 AM, Country Omelette Restaurant, 3420 N. 10th Street, McAllen. I will be selling my handmade personalized C hristmas ornaments and other Christmas dĂŠcor including nativities, other artwork and sports logos. I will be selling DAILY from 7:00am3:00pm from NOVEMBER 20 thru DECEMBER 20. For information call (956) 225-4915. Rancho Lomitas, 07:30 AM, Edinburg WBC, 714 Raul Longoria Drive, 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
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. •
our harsh environment. Also, discover the medicinal heritage of the Rio Grande Valley during this fascinating excursion. For information call 956381-9922. Fee: $20 members (excludes winter membership), $25 non-members. Volunteer Mornings, 08:30 AM, Quinta Mazatlan, 600 Sunset Drive, 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. Exhibit Display: Electricity, 09:00 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. Bluegrass Jam, 09:00 AM, Bentsen Palm RV Park, 3501 N. Bentsen Palm Drive, Mission. Home made goodies and coffee served. For information call 218-525-5807. 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 Road, 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. 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. Group Piano Lessons in your Park!, 12:00 PM, Your Park. $40.00 pp, Group Piano Lessons. Groups size not to exceed 8 students and require and least 5. Each session guided by calendar month and consists of 4 - 60 minute lessons that occur once each week at the same time. Students are expected to practice daily. Materials to be provided. More complete explanation available upon request by emailing me at danielpauloettel@ yahoo.com at which point I will reply with an attachment.
SCHEDULE OF EVENTS CONTINUED ON PAGE 6 >>
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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 RC Racing, 01:00 PM, Penitas RV Park, 304 19th Street, 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 Road, Harlingen. For information call 965428-7116. Jam, 01:00 PM, Eastgate MH & RV Park, 2801 E. Harrison Avenue, Harlingen. For information call 956423-3137. ZUMBA Class, 02:00 PM, Sleepy Valley Resort, 2301 N. Abram Road, Mission. FREE Admission, Enjoy a ZUMBA class with certified instructors, Pierre and Sylvie. For information call 956-581-1871. Acoustical Jam, 02:00 PM, Park Place Estates, 5401 W. Business 83, Harlingen. Free Admission, refreshments available, musicians by invitation, open to the public. For information call 956-412-0375. WRRH Stroke Support Group, 03:00 PM, Weslaco Regional Rehabilitation Hospital, 906 S. James Street, Weslaco. FREE Admission, Weslaco
DANCE
Every Saturday FREE Popcorn and Ice Dance w/Diego November 28 • 7:00 PM $6.00 pp • BYOB Dance w/The Cruisers December 5 • 7:00 PM $10.00 pp • BYOB Dance w/Route 66 December 12 • 7:00 PM $6.00 pp • BYOB Dance w/The Jets December 19 • 7:00 PM $6.00 pp • BYOB
Regional Rehabilitation Hospital and Knapp Medical Center invite stroke survivors and their families to join us for a free uplifting support group. Come gain support, education and encouragement from others who know just what you are going through. For questions or to RSVP, please call 956-969-2222. Happy Hour w/Brenda Cohn, 03:00 PM, Snow to Sun RV Resort, 1701 N. International Boulevard, Weslaco. Pass the Hat, BYOB. Wine and beer sold at bar. Free ice. For information call 620-441-1173. Happy Hour w/Regan James, 03:30 PM, Paradise South RV Resort, 9099 N Mile 2 West Road, Mercedes. Pass the Hat, BYOB, Hamburgers and hot dogs may be purchased. For information call 956-825-9509. Maxan Street Farmers’ Market, 04:00 PM, The Garden, Port Isabel. Every Wednesday from 4-6 pm in The Garden on Maxan Street in Port Isabel’s Lighthouse Square. Additional parking at Pirate’s Landing for Farmers’ Market customers. For more information and vendor opportunities, call 956-433-9675.
HAPPY HOUR Happy Hour w/Diego December 3 • 3:00 PM Pass the Hat • BYOB
JAM
Every Friday November 27 • 2:00 PM December 4 • 2:00 PM December 11 • 2:00 PM December 18 • 2:00 PM
KARAOKE
Every Wednesday Karaoke w/Harry & Judy November 25 • 5:00 PM December 2 • 5:00 PM BYOB
Karaoke w/Harry & Judy, 05:00 PM, Llano Grande Lake Resort, 2215 E. West Blvd., Mercedes. BYOB, For information call 956-565-1506. Spaghetti Nite, 05:30 PM, American Legion Post 101, 417 S. Cage Boulevard, Pharr. Spaghetti & Side Garlic Bread - $7.00, Extra Garlic Bread - $.50, Music by Robert & Joe. For information call 956-787-7451. Bingo, 07:00 PM, Sleepy Valley Resort, 2301 N. Abram Road, Mission. FREE Admission. For information call 956-581-1871. Dance w/Albert Mikesh, 07:00 PM, Fiesta Village RV Park, 205 S. Stewart Road, Mission. $5.00 pp. For information call 956-585-9264. Dance w/Bottomline Band, 07:00 PM, Tip O’Texas RV Resort, 101 E. Sioux Road, Pharr. $5.00 pp. Square & Round Dance, 07:00 PM, Lakewood RV Resort, 4525 Graham Road, Harlingen. For information call 956-423-1170.
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 26, 2015 Bible Study, 10:00 AM, Tropic Winds RV Resort, 1501 N. Loop 499,
Harlingen. For information call 956423-5484. Power Walk, 10:00 AM, Sleepy Valley Resort, 2301 N. Abram Road, Mission. Come have a great time walking. Indoors in the Clubhouse. Walk for fun, to take the pounds off, enjoy the fellowship of others. For information call 956-581-1871. FREE Zumba Classes, 10:00 AM, South Padre Island KOA, 1 Padre Blvd., South Padre Island. For information call 956-761-5665. Pharrmers Market, 10:00 AM, The Food Bank of the RGV, 724 N. Cage Blvd., Pharr. Every Thursday we will have our Pharrmers Market excluding Holidays and rainy days!! We will have a great variety of healthy food options, arts & crafts, and personal care items. Help us get Pharr Healthy! The Food Bank of the Rio Grande Valley is the Valley Grapefruit Historical landmark building. For information call 956-904-4541. Square Dance w/Dorty Plus Dance, 10:00 AM, Tip O’Texas RV Resort, 101 E. Sioux Road, Pharr. For information call Randy Dougherty 602-617-1841. Bird Walk, 10:00 AM, Edinburg WBC, 714 Raul Longoria Road, Edinburg. Join the EWBC Naturalist for weekly Bird Walks. No level of experience is required. Com and see what’s been showing up at the Wetlands throughout the week! These programs are free with paid admission or membership. Tours are available in English or Spanish. For information call 956-381-9922. Thanksgiving Dinner Buffet, 11:00 AM, Victoria Palms RV Resort, 602 N. Victoria Road, Donna. $15.95 pp. Call for information 956-782-3263 Thanksgiving Day, 12:00 PM, American Legion Post 37, 1305 E. Jasmine Avenue, McAllen. Turkey & Ham provided - Potluck dish to share. Country Western Jam, 12:30 PM, Bentsen Grove Resort, 810 Bentsen Palm Drive, Mission. For information call 956-585-0703. Square Dance w/Dorty C2 Review/ Workshop, 01:30 PM, Tip O’Texas RV Resort, 101 E. Sioux Road, Pharr. For information call Randy Dougherty 602-617-1841. Square Dance, 03:00 PM, Lakewood RV Resort, 4525 Graham Road, Harlingen. For information call 956423-1170. Happy Hour w/Andy & Brenda Coin, 03:00 PM, Snow to Sun RV Resort, 1701 N. International Boulevard, Weslaco. Pass the Hat, BYOB. Wine and beer sold at bar. Free ice. For information call 620-441-1173.
www.welcomehomergv.com
DANCE ENTERTAINMENT & SHOWS Jam Dinner, 04:00 PM, Restful Valley Ranch, 7130 W. Expressway 83, Mission. Jam from 5:30 pm - 7:30 pm, For information call 616-204-8067. Loaded Tators, 05:00 PM, American Legion Post 37, 1305 E. Jasmine Ave, McAllen. Jam, 05:30 PM, Restful Valley Ranch, 7130W Expressway 83, Mission. For information call 616-204-8067. Meat Draw Nite, 05:30 PM, American Legion Post 101, 417 S. Cage Boulevard, 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. Code#RGV, 06:00 PM, IMAS, 1900 W. Nolana Avenue, McAllen. Work on, or start, a project with fellow coders and enjoy music, food, and drinks. Mission. Code#RGV is a community run event that promotes collaboration, innovation, and education of software programming and startups in the Rio Grande Valley. This is part of an ongoing effort to grow out startup community and invigorate our economy. For information contact, Olmo Maldonado, olmo@codergv. com, 650-450-8193. Valley Transplant Support Group @ McAllen Medical Center, 06:30 PM, 4th Floor, HBO Waiting Room, McAllen Medical Center, 301 W. Expressway 83 McAllen. The Valley Transplant Support Group’s goal is to educate and help patients have an understanding of the challenges that may arise before and after transplantation and the resources available to assist them. The group focuses on the emotional aspects of kidney transplant by offering information, education and a chance for pre- and post-op patients to meet and learn from each other. For more information, please contact Monica Sanchez-Lucio at 956-971-5726 or monica.sanchez-lucio@uhsrgv.com. Big Band Jam, 06:30 PM, La Hacienda Estates, 1018 El Paseo Drive, Alamo. Located 1 mile south of Business 83 on Tower Road, coffee and cookies available for a donation, soda & ice cream for sale. For information call 956-683-5160. Entertainment w/Howard & Barb Bedient, 07:00 PM, McAllen Mobile Park, 4900 N. McColl Road, McAllen. $5.00 pp, for information call 956-682-3304.
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 27, 2015 Pancake Breakfast, 07:30 AM, Fiesta
Village RV Park, 205 S. Stewart Road, Mission. For more information contact Larry & Cheryl Meier @ 319429-0523. Advanced Line Dance, 09:00 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 Road, 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. Black Friday: Family Specials at IMAS, 10:00 AM, International Museum of Art & Science, 1900 W. Nolana Avenue, McAllen. Get your shopping done and have fun with the family all at once! Get Family memberships for $10.00 off or enjoy sales in our Gift Shop. Special hands-on fun with our “Learn the science behind the holiday feast” or “Make your own light up holiday card” or enjoy painting with watercolors or acrylics in our Ann Moore Art Studio, plus much more. Be the First to see our IMAS Guild Christmas Tree Forest! Check out our new PLANETARIUM, sponsored by H-E-B.! All activities included with general admission. For more information, call (956) 6820123 or visit www.imasonline.org. Square Dancing, 10:00 AM, Casa del Valle, 1048 N. Alamo Road, 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. Every Friday in the fall until Spring 2016. For Group of 15 or more please call to reserve a private tour! For information call 956-681-3370. Friday Fish Fry, 11:00 AM, Riverside Club Bar & Grill, 214 E. Chimney Road, Mission. Catfish, Cod, Shrimp or Combo Dinners with Baked Beans, Hush Puppies, Cole Slaw and French Fries. For information call 956-5811033. Round Dance, 01:00 PM, Lakewood RV Resort, 4525 Graham Road, Harlingen. For information call 956423-1170. Country Jam, 01:00 PM, McAllen Mobile Park, 4900 N. McColl Road, McAllen. Dessert table will be provided. For musician information,
JAM SESSIONS
MEALS
call Ralph Boyd 612-202-7358. 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. Variety Jam, 01:00 PM, Bentsen Palm RV Park, 3501 N. Bentsen Palm Drive, Mission. Home made goodies and coffee served. For information call 218-585-5807. ZUMBA Class, 02:00 PM, Sleepy Valley Resort, 2301 N. Abram Road, Mission FREE Admission, Enjoy a ZUMBA class with certified instructors, Pierre and Sylvie. For information call 956-581-1871. Jam Session, 02:00 PM, Llano Grande Lake Park, 2215 E. West Blvd, Mercedes. For information call 956-565-1506. Happy Hour w/Ken Thompson, 03:00 PM, Snow to Sun RV Resort, 1701 N. International Boulevard, Weslaco. Pass the Hat, BYOB, Wine and beer sold at bar. Free ice. For information call 620-441-1173. Dinner Dance w/SweetWater, 05:00
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SALES
PM, Winter Ranch RV Resort, 600 Hwy 495, Alamo. BYOB, Snacks are Available. Popcorn is free. Soup Dinner Before Dance at 5:00 PM. Reservations must be made at least 1 week in advance, Call 956-7834587. Dinner/Dance Combo $9.00. Dance Tickets are available at the Door for $5.00. No Combo tickets sold at the door. 6:00 PM Free Line Dancing Class With JoAnn Sullivan for those attending the SweetWater Dance. Thanksgiving Leftovers, 05:00 PM, American Legion Post 37, 1305 E. Jasmine Avenue, McAllen. Friday Night Dinner, 05:30 PM, American Legion Post 101, 417 S. Cage Boulevard, 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.
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SCHEDULE OF EVENTS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 7 Abram Road, Mission. $6.00 pp, Hamburger, chips, soda and dessert for $6.00, serving at 5:30. Karaoke follows. For information call 956581-1871. Dance w/Dixon & Company, 06:30 PM, McAllen Elks Lodge No. 1402, 3500 Jordan Road, McAllen. Open to Public. Karaoke at Tip O’ Texas, 06:30 PM, Tip O’Texas RV Resort, 101 E. Sioux Road, Pharr. $1.00 participation fee, Al Barnes Hall. For information call 956-787-6461. Dance w/Country Band, 07:00 PM, Roadrunner RV Park, 1222 N. Cesar Chavez Road, Alamo. $5.00 pp, advance tickets available for sale. For information call 956-787-2847. Dance w/Diego, 07:00 PM, Lakewood RV Resort, 4525 Graham Road, Harlingen. $7.00 pp. For information call 956-428-7116. Dance w/Louie Long & The Drifters, 07:00 PM, Bit-O-Heaven RV & MH Park, 1051 W. Business Hwy 83, Donna. $5.00 pp, BYOB, Popcorn & Soda for sale. For information call 956-464-5191. Dance w/Pelican West, 07:00 PM,
Victoria Palms RV Resort, 602 N. Victoria Road, Donna. $10.00 pp. Concessions available. BYOB. Call for information 956-782-3263. Dance w/Sipe & The Country Boys, 07:00 PM, Bentsen Grove Resort, 810 Bentsen Palm Drive, Mission. $5.00 pp, for information call 956585-0703. Dance w/Texas Country Band, 07:00 PM, Fun-N-Sun RV Resort, 1400 Zillock Road, San Benito. $5.00 pp, Call for information 956-399-5800 Entertainment w/Smoking Gun, 07:00 PM, American Legion Post 37, 1305 E. Jasmine Avenue, McAllen. Big Band/Rock & Roll Jam, 07:00 PM, Palm Shadows RV Park, 200 N. Val Verde Road, Donna. For information call 507-273-3895.
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 28, 2015 Acres Big Breakfast, 07:00 AM, Eldorado Acres RV Park, 610 N. FM 492, Mission. 2 eggs, hash browns, wheat toast & Coffee -$3.00, 2 eggs, choice of bacon(3), sausage(2) or ham(1), hash browns, wheat toast & Coffee - $3.75, Biscuit with Sausage
gravy & coffee - $2.50, Pancakes, plain or blueberry, & Coffee $2.75, Side of Sausage, ham or bacon, 2 eggs - $2.00 each, Hash Browns $1.00, Coffee - $.75, Orange Juice $1.25. For information call 956581-6718. Breakfast, 07:00 AM, Restful Valley Ranch, 7130 W. Expressway 83, Mission. $3.00 pp. Menu rotates. For information call 616-204-8067. Saturday Morning Breakfast, 07:00 AM, Chimney Park RV Resort, 4224 S. Conway, Mission. $4.00 pp, for information call 956-585-5061. Saturday Breakfast, 07:30 AM, Paradise Park Inc, 100 E. Hackberry Avenue, 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 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. Fall Flea Market, 07:30 AM, Pharr South, 1402 S. Cage Blvd., Pharr. There will also be a bake sale, silent auction and breakfast will be available. For information call 218546-6891. Songbird Stroll, 08:00 AM, Quinta Mazatlan, 600 Sunset, McAllen. Join an expert birder on a one hour bird walk for all skill levels! Over 200 species have been seen in the park since 2006! No experience Necessary, and loaner binoculars are available. Note: Large groups, please call in advance. $3 adults, $2 students & seniors. For information call 956-681-3370. Spectacular Saturdays!, 08:00 AM, Edinburg WBC, 714 Raul Longoria Drive, Edinburg The weather is enjoyable and wildlife are arriving by the day. It is a wonderful time to get outside and enjoy nature. EWBC will open its doors for FREE to the public. Throughout the day there will be puzzles, crafts, games, and guided nature hikes upon request. Binoculars are available free of charge. NOTE: Free entry does not include fee for concurring programs and activities. For information call 956-381-9922. Bird Walks @ Resaca de la Palma, 08:30 AM, Resaca de la Palma, 1000 New Carmen Blvd., Brownsville. Travel by foot or on our new and amazingly quiet electric trams to reach our destinations. We have many different trails to venture onto that are relatively flat and ADA
accessible. With 1,200 acres of lush, riparian woodlands we will also be birding by ear. For information call 956-350-2920. Volunteer Mornings, 08:30 AM, Quinta Mazatlan, 600 Sunset Drive, 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. FREE Walking Tours, 09:00 AM, Java Cafe, 204 E. Jackson Avenue, 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. Tour participants will hear about frontier days, mid-century boom times, and modern Harlingen. The tour guide will provide insight on the city’s past nicknames, “Rattlesnake Junction,” “Six Shooter Junction,” and “Howlin’ Gin, and explain how ice made Harlingen famous. Participants learn which Jackson Street buildings were the mortuary, the Woolworth’s store, the Piggly Wiggly, and more. The tour also includes stops at several largerthan-life-size 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. Growing Growers Farmers Market, 09:00 AM, Firemen Park, 201 N. First Street, McAllen. Year Round Farmers Market with all local vegetables, fruits, herbs, 100% Certified Grass-fed Beef, Gulf Caught Shrimp, Artisan Goat Milk Cheese, Eggs, Honey, Jams, Jellies, and Fresh Baked Goods, including baked items for those on special diets. Located under a protected pavillion, with restrooms and kitchen for demonstrations. For information call 956-330-6410. Santa Ana Nature Walk, 09:00 AM, Santa Ana National Wildlife Refuge, Alamo. $3.00 pp. Every Saturday, a volunteer led nature walk through the trails at Santa Ana National Wildlife Refuge. Directions: The refuge and visitor center are 7 miles south of Alamo, TX on FM 907 about 1/4 mile east on Hwy 281. Brownsville’s Farmers Market, 09:00 AM, Ringgold Street & E 6th Street, 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
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DANCE ENTERTAINMENT & SHOWS Nature Tour, 09:30 AM, SPI Birding & Nature Center $3 plus admission. Senior Saturdays, 10:00 AM, International Museum of Art & Science, 1900 W. Nolana Avenue, 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 Road, Pharr. For information, call Randy Dougherty 602-617-1841. The Market @ McAllen, 10:00 AM, McAllen Public Library. Every Saturday the community will now have access to local farmers, ranchers, chefs, and artisans each contributing to the healthy lifestyle changes our community desperately needs. 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. Big Band/Rock & Roll Jam, 01:00 PM, McAllen Mobile Park, 4900 N. McColl Road, McAllen. Dessert table will be provided. Musicians are by invitation only. For information call Pat Arguello 956-874-5041. “Colors of Nature” Puppet Show, 02:30 PM, Edinburg WBC, 714 Raul Longoria Drive, Edinburg. Join us on this free Spectacular Saturday. The EWBC staff will provide visitors with some great entertainment. Bring the family and enjoy our “Colors of Nature” puppet show. Learn about different animals and their habitat at the wetlands. For more information please call us at (956) 381-9922. Round Dance w/The Ski’s Phase 2-3, 03:00 PM, Tip O’Texas RV Resort, 101 E. Sioux Road, Pharr. For information call Bob or Kay 956460-7520. 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 Avenue, McAllen. 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!
Overeaters Anonymous, 05:00 PM, McAllen Heart Hospital, 1900 S. D Street, 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. Beardfest to Benefit the American Cancer Society, 05:00 PM, High Octane Cuts, 1617 E. Harrison Avenue, Suite 3, Harlingen. Ready to let it grow? No-Shave November is a unique campaign to “grow” cancer awareness. The goal of No-Shave November is to increase cancer awareness by embracing our hair, which many cancer patients lose, and letting it grow wild and free. Supporters are encouraged to form or join a team. As the participant lets their hair grow, family and friends are solicited to join the campaign and/or make a gift. By doing so, they become educated about cancer prevention, saving lives, and helping those fighting cancer. High Octane Cuts will be holding Beardfest on November 28th from 5:00 PM until they are finished to benefit the American Cancer Society. There will be music, pictures and give a ways. Prizes will be awarded in many beard and mustache categories. Call or go by today to register for more information on Beardfest 956-4562367. Call your American Cancer Society at 956-682-8329 for more details. Round Dance w/The Ski’s Phase 3-4, 06:00 PM, Tip O’Texas RV Resort, 101 E. Sioux Road, Pharr. For information call Bob or Kay 956460-7520. Entertainment w/Lynn Dvorak, 06:00 PM, San Benito Elks Lodge No. 1661, 251 N. Reagan Street, San Benito. Member’s and Guests (Be my guest!) For more information call 402-640-4739. Dance w/Country Roland Jr., 07:00 PM, Paradise Resort Estates, 301 E. Hall Acres Road, Pharr. $5.00pp, doors open at 6:15 pm, snack bar open. For information call 956-7871521. Dance w/Diego, 07:00 PM, Llano Grande Lake Resort, 2215 E. West Blvd, Mercedes $6.00 pp, BYOB, Free popcorn and ice. For information call 956-565-1506. Dance w/Larry & Mona, 07:00 PM, Snow to Sun RV Resort, 1701 North International Boulevard, Weslaco. $5.00 pp, BYOB, Wine and beer sold at bar. Free ice. Contact information 956-756-4958. Dance w/Manuel Rivera, 07:00 PM, Cottonwood Country Club, 1001 Ed Carey Drive, Harlingen. $6.00 pp,
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BYOB. For more information call 218-234-6411 or 956-438-6232. Dance w/Ron E Band, 07:00 PM, Tropical Valley Acres, 1240 E. Bus 83, Mission. For information call 956-583-5582. Dance w/Sipe & The Country Playboys, 07:00 PM, Paradise South RV Resort, 9099 N. Mile 2 West Road, Mercedes. $5.00 pp. For information call 956-825-9509. Dance w/SweetWater, 07:00 PM, Trophy Gardens RV Resort, 800 Hwy 495, Alamo. $5.00 pp, For information call 956-783-1003. Dance w/Texas Country Band, 07:00 PM, Casa del Valle, 1048 N. Alamo Road, Alamo. $5.00 pp. For information call 956-783-5008. Dance w/Travis Country Band, 07:00 PM, Enchanted Valley Ranch, 7300 Monroe Street, Mission. $5.00 pp, BYOB & Snacks, soda and water for sale. For information call 956-5198597. Entertainment w/Gatos Locos, 07:00 PM, American Legion Post 37, 1305 E. Jasmine Avenue, McAllen. Karaoke, 07:00 PM, American Legion
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Post 101, 417 S. Cage Boulevard, Pharr. For information call 956-7877451. Port Isabel Historic Ghost Tours @ Port Isabel Light House, 08:00 PM, Port Isabel Light House. Every Saturday evening at 8 pm. One hour walking tour begins at the Port Isabel Lighthouse. Cost, $10 per person. Tickets available at the Port Isabel Chamber of Commerce, City Hall and Museums of Port Isabel. For more information, contact the Chamber office at 943-2262. Round Dance w/The Ski’s Phase 4-5-6, 08:00 PM, Tip O’Texas RV Resort, 101 E. Sioux Road, Pharr. For information call Bob or Kay 956460-7520.
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2015 Church Service, 08:30 AM, Victoria Palms Inn & Suites, 602 North Victoria Road, Donna. Call for information 956-782-3263. Church Service, 08:30 AM, Bentsen Grove Resort, 810 Bentsen Palm Drive, Mission. Non-denominational
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DANCE ENTERTAINMENT & SHOWS
JAM SESSIONS
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SCHEDULE OF EVENTS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 9 services. For information call 956585-0703. Church Service, 08:45 AM, Oleander Acres RV Resort, 2421 S. Conway Avenue, Mission. For information call 262-497-4241. 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 Services, 08:45 AM, Winter Haven Park, 1015 W. Sam Houston Boulevard, Pharr. Nondenominational service. Service starts at 8:45 am. Pastor Robert Kracht. Communion first Sunday of each month. Everyone Welcome. For information call 956-781-7881. Church Service, 09:00 AM, Citrus Valley RV Park, 2901 W. Hwy 107, McAllen. Pastor Jim Troutman. Communion service 1st Sunday of the month. For information call 956383-8189. Church Service, 09:00 AM, Alamo Palms Mobile Park, 1341 W. Business Hwy 83, Alamo. Nondenominational, Pastor Brian Dent. For information call 956-787-7571. Church Service, 09:00 AM, Chimney
Park RV Resort, 4224 S. Conway, Mission. For information call 956585-5061. Church Service, 09:00 AM, Southern Comfort RV Resort, 1501 S. Airport Drive, Weslaco. For information call 956-638-3158. Church Service, 09:00 AM, Trophy Gardens RV Resort, 800 Hwy 495, Alamo. Non-Denominational Service with Pastor Darrel Hardy. For information call 956-783-1003. Church Service, 09:00 AM, Eastgate MH & RV Park, 2801 E. Harrison Avenue, Harlingen. Non-denominational. Pastor David Squire. Communion for Sunday of each month. Everyone welcome. For information call 956-423-3137. Church Service, 09:00 AM, Fiesta Village RV Park, 205 S. Stewart Road, Mission. For information call 956-585-9264. Church Services, 09:00 AM, Hidden Valley Ranch, 1900 Long Drive, Mission. Coffee and refreshments available at 8:30. Services with Pastor Cameron Gillette. Church Services, 09:00 AM, Winter Ranch RV Resort, 600 State Hwy 495, Alamo. Pastor Frisby Worship
Leader. Fellowship at 8:30. Coffee, cookies and desserts. Village Chapel Church Service, 09:00 AM, Tip O’Texas RV Resort, 101 E. Sioux Road, Pharr. For information call 956-787-6461. Church Service, 09:15 AM, Sleepy Valley Resort, 2301 N. Abram Road, Mission. For information call 956581-1871. Church Service, 09:30 AM, Tropic Winds RV Resort, 1501 N. Loop 499, Harlingen. Non-denominational. For information call 956-423-5484. Church Service, 09:30 AM, Pharr South, 1402 S. Cage Boulevard, Pharr. Dr. Gerald Parrott. Coffee fellowship to follow service. Every Monday Communion service. For information call 956-358-1089 or 956-781-2715. 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 Services, 10:00 AM, Paradise Resort Estates, 301 E. Hall Acres Road, Pharr. For information call 956-787-1521. Entertainment w/Ron O’Neil, A Party of One, 11:00 AM, Don-Wes Flea Market, 208 N. Victoria Road, Donna. For information call 989-773-3586. Farmer’s Market @ The Shores, SPI, 11:00 AM, The Shores, 8500 Padre Blvd, SPI. Fresh produce, fresh eggs, fresh seafood! Healthy shopping for healthy foods. Located at ‘The Shores’ north of SPI Convention Centre. Every Sunday 11am-1pm. Gospel Jam, 01:30 PM, Mission West RV Park, 511 E. Loop 374, Palmview. Concessions Available. For information call 956-585-5551. Live Music w/Solitaire, 02:00 PM, Riverside Club Bar & Grill, 214 E. Chimney Road, Mission. For information call 956-581-1033. Ice Cream Social, 02:30 PM, Mission West RV Park, 511 E. Loop 374, Palmview. BBQ & Potluck, 05:30 PM, American Legion Post 101, 417 S. Cage Boulevard, Pharr. Football, BBQ, Free Pot Luck. For information call 956-787-7451. Country Jam, 06:00 PM, Sleepy Valley Resort, 2301 N. Abram Road, Mission. FREE Admission. For information call 956-581-1871. Gospel Jam, 06:00 PM, Bluebonnet RV Resort, 3366 N. Bentsen Park Drive, Mission. For information call 956-585-7630. Concert for the Needy, 06:15 PM, Lakewood RV Resort, 4525 Graham Road, Harlingen. Concert for the Needy. Entertainment to be
announced. For information call 956-428-7116. Entertainment w/Razz Ma Tazz, 07:00 PM, Paradise South RV Resort, 9099 N Mile 2 West Road, Mercedes. $5.00 pp, For information call 956825-9509. Free Movie, 07:00 PM, Paradise Resort Estates, 301 E Hall Acres Road, Pharr. Free admission. For information call 956-223-9359. Listing of movies available on website: pharrparadisepark.sharepoint.com. Snack bar open.
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 2015 Power Walk, 10:00 AM, Sleepy Valley Resort, 2301 N. Abram Road, 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. Yahoo, 01:00 PM, Sleepy Valley Resort, 2301 N. Abram Road, Mission. Come enjoy a quite afternoon playing Yahoo with your friends. For information call 956-581-1871. Jam Session, 01:00 PM, Wagon City North, 2905 N. Conway Avenue, Mission. All Jammers & Listeners are welcome. For information call 515802-9421. Come have a good time! Newbie Clogging!, 01:15 PM, Tip O’Texas RV Resort, 101 E. Sioux Road, Pharr. $4.00 donation, Each session is progressive, come when you can and stay as late as you want. Beginner to Easy Interm. Variety of music, something for everyone. It’s FUN! For information call Jim: 956781-2275, bjraabe@sbcglobal.net, Text: (705) 805-8366. ZUMBA Class, 02:00 PM, Sleepy Valley Resort, 2301 N Abram Road, Mission. FREE Admission, Enjoy a ZUMBA class with certified instructors, Pierre and Sylvie, for information call 956-581-1871. Experienced Clogging!, 02:15 PM, Tip O’Texas RV Resort, 101 E. Sioux Road, Pharr. Each session is progressive, come when you can and stay as late as you want. $4 donation. Beginner to Easy Interm. Variety of music, something for everyone. It’s FUN! Info: Jim: (956) 781-2275, bjraabe@sbcglobal.net, Text: (705) 805-8366. Square Dance, 03:00 PM, Lakewood RV Resort, 4525 Graham Road, Harlingen. For information call 956423-1170. Happy Hour w/Diego, 03:00 PM, Snow to Sun RV Resort, 1701 N. International Boulevard, Weslaco
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DANCE ENTERTAINMENT & SHOWS
JAM SESSIONS
Pass the Hat, BYOB. Wine and beer sold at bar. Free ice. For information call 620-441-1173. Dinner, 04:30 PM, Bentsen Grove Resort, 810 Bentsen Palm Drive, Mission. $6.50 pp, check each week for menu! For information call 956585-0704. Spaghetti Dinner, 04:30 PM, American Legion Post 439, 219 E. Commercial Ave, La Feria $8 pp. 956-797-3701. Hamburger Nite, 05:30 PM, American Legion Post 101, 417 S. Cage Boulevard, 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. For information call 507-219-0579. Country Jam, 06:00 PM, Mission West RV Park, 511 E. Loop 374, Palmview. Concessions Available. For information call 956-585-5551. 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.
Famous Cake served at half time!! For information call 262-497-4241 Country Music Jam, 02:00 PM, Casa del Valle, 1048 N. Alamo Road, Alamo. For information call 956783-5008. Round Dance w/The Ski’s 3+Figures, 03:00 PM, Tip O’Texas RV Resort, 101 E. Sioux Road, Pharr. For information call Bob or Kay 956460-7520. Happy Hour w/Lynn Dvorak, 03:00 PM, Snow to Sun RV Resort, 1701 N. International Blvd., Weslaco. Pass the Hat, BYOB. Wine and beer sold at bar. Free ice. For information call 620-441-1173. Country Jam Dinner, 04:00 PM, Canyon Lake RV Resort, 4770 N. Mayberry Road, Mission. For information call 956-580-4545. Jam Dinner, 04:00 PM, Enchanted Valley Ranch, 7300 Monroe Street, Mission. Variable choices each week such as sandwiches, hamburgers, hot dogs, soups etc. For information call 956-519-8597. Country Jam, 05:30 PM, Enchanted Valley Ranch, 7300 Monroe Street, Mission. For information call 956519-8597.
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 1, 2015 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 Road, 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 are available in English or Spanish. For information call 956-381-9922. Beginning Line Dance, 09:00 AM, Tropic Winds RV Resort, 1501 N. Loop 499, Harlingen. For information call 956-423-5484. Square Dance Plus w/Butch Danielski,
09:30 AM, Pine To Palm Resort Park, 802 S. International Blvd, Weslaco. $4.50 pp, Rounds at 9:30 with Marge Scherrill. Square Dance at 10 am. Contact information call 956-973-8335. Power Walk, 10:00 AM, Sleepy Valley Resort, 2301 N. Abram Road, Mission. Come have a great time walking. Indoors in the Clubhouse. Walk for fun, to take the pounds off, enjoy the fellowship of others. For information call 956-581-1871. FREE Zumba Classes, 10:00 AM, South Padre Island KOA, 1 Padre Blvd., South Padre Island. For information call 956-761-5665. 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 Road, Mission. Come join us for a great time. Classes are on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 11:00am. Great way to relax, exercise and meet people. For information call 956-581-1871. Women’s Bible Study, 11:00 AM, Tropic Winds RV Resort, 1501 N. Loop 499, Harlingen. For information call 956-423-5484. Open Jam, 11:00 AM, Leisure World, 400 E. 18th Street, Weslaco. 11:00am-12:00pm Lunch Served, 12:00pm-2:00pm Music. For information call 956-447-3821. Diabetes Management Class, 01:00 PM, 3rd Floor, McAllen Medical Center East Classroom, 3rd Floor, McAllen Medical Center. Classes are provided in English and Spanish every other week. For more information, please call Mary Escaname at 956971-5850. Round Dance w/The Ski’s 4+Figures, 01:00 PM, Tip O’Texas RV Resort, 101 E. Sioux Road, Pharr. For information call Bob or Kay 956460-7520. Country Music Jam, 01:00 PM, J-5 RV Park, 3907 N. Taylor Road, Mission. Host: Marion Price. Coffee & cookies served. For information call 956682-7495. Jam, 01:00 PM, Paradise Park, Inc, 100 E. Hackberry Avenue, McAllen. Lunch available 11:00 am - 1:00 pm. For information call 956-6828081. Jam Session, 01:00 PM, Roadrunner RV Park, 1222 N. Cesar Chavez Road, Alamo. Lunch served at 11:30 a.m. For information call 712-2592222. Jam w/Ray & Gynger, 01:00 PM, Oleander Acres RV Resort, 2421 S. Conway Avenue, Mission. Oleander’s
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Taco Nite, 05:30 PM, American Legion Post 101, 417 S. Cage Boulevard, Pharr. 3 Taco Plate - $6.50, Taco Salad - $7.50, Chalupa - $2.50 each, Extra Taco - $2.50, Extra Sour Cream - $.50, for information call 956-787-7451. Live entertainment w/Jim Staton. Country Jam, 06:00 PM, Canyon Lake RV Resort, 4770 N. Mayberry Road, Mission. For information call 956580-4545. Entertainment w/Rolando, 06:30 PM, Alamo Rec Veh Park, 1320 W. Frontage Road, Alamo. $5.00 pp. Advance Tickets Available. For information call 956-783-5440. Dance w/Louis Gomez, 07:00 PM, Victoria Palms RV Resort, 602 N. Victoria Road, Donna. $5.00 pp. Concessions available. BYOB. Call for information 956-782-3263. Entertainment w/Razz Ma Tazz, 07:00 PM, Winter Ranch RV Resort, 600 State Hwy 495, Alamo. $5.00 pp. For information call 956-783-4587. Karaoke, 07:00 PM, American Legion Post 101, 417 S. Cage Boulevard, Pharr. •
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Welcome Home WINTER TEXAN • • • your official connection to the rio grande valley
PARK NEWS
Twenty-Two Years of Joy at Lakewood RV Resort Special to Welcome Home RGV
Winter
Texans are returning to the Valley for the winter, and here at Lakewood RV Resort, that means time to prepare for our Christmas for the Needy program. We are kicking off our 22nd year of providing Christmas for a dozen or more needy families whose children attend Stuart Place Elementary, where many of our Winter Texans spend time mentoring the students. This all started with our Worship Committee all those years ago. We raise funds for this event, beginning with a quilt raffle of a large quilt our ladies have gingerly put together. Raffle tickets go on sale Monday, November 16, and will also be sold at our various weekly square dance/round dance events here at Lakewood. December 4, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., we will open our Soup for the Needy luncheon to the general public, and I would personally like to invite you to bring a friend and attend lunch with us. Oh, we also have a bake sale, so plan for dessert, too! Then on December 5 from 7:00-
Christmas
Needy FOR THE
10:00 p.m., Paul Neff will provide entertainment with both western and ballroom dance music for your dancing pleasure. Last but not least, December 6 from 1:00-3:00 p.m., we will offer a square dance, round dance, line dance hosted by callers Nick Harley and Shirley Heiny, along with Paul Neff. The following weekend, these needy families come to our RV Resort for FUN with Santa and our residents. Everyone enjoys cookies, punch, and fellowship with these families. Finally, the families receive their groceries, gifts, and a handmade quilt for each child. We receive a warm sense of the season in our hearts, serving God in His work. • Donna Wright is a Lakewood resident and Christmas for the Needy chairperson.
Eastgate Honors Our Veterans H H H H H H H H H Special to Welcome Home RGV
E
astgate RV & MH Park in Harlingen hosted its 1st Veterans Day Breakfast November 14. It was attended by over 30 Veterans representing all of our Armed Forces, their spouses, and many other residents. A drawing was held for seven blankets and one pillow for our Veterans. The blankets were donated by Steve Fawley, one of our residents, who made them all by hand. After a wonderful breakfast and conversation the event ended by singing God Bless America. Thank you to all of our Veterans! Because of you, our future and our freedom are preserved for our families and our future generations. •
www.welcomehomergv.com
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McAllen Receives 100 Trees in Honor of Texas A&M Forest Service Centennial Special to Welcome Home RGV
One hundred communities across Texas received a special delivery of 100 trees in honor of Texas A&M Forest Service’s centennial year, capping off a full year of celebrating the agency’s commitment to conserve and protect Texas’ trees and forests. Aiming to help communities expand their urban tree canopy, 10,000 seedlings were grown at the TFS-operated West Texas Nursery specifically for 100 Trees for 100 Communities. As one of Texas’ 83 Tree City USA cities, McAllen was able to sign up for the giveaway before it opened to other communities Following some tough years of weather, especially this year’s flooding that occurred in much of the state, many communities are in great need of trees. “When a community and its passion unite, compassion flourishes,” Urban Forester Clifford Hawkins said. Each community may decide how to use their trees. Many communities tied the trees into Arbor Day celebrations. McAllen planted 40 trees in city parks for Arbor Day and gave the remaining 60 trees away during their Texas Recycles Day. “This has been a way to assist communities in their recovery efforts,
and it provides an opportunity to connect with some of our smaller communities. We don’t often have trees to give away, and it’s very nice to be able to offer trees across the state,” Gretchen Riley, partnership coordinator at Texas A&M Forest Service said. The statewide Arbor Day celebration was held November 6 in College Station at the George Bush Presidential Library and Museum. An Additonal Note by Cliff Hawkins, Urban Forester As a recipient of the Texas Forest Service delivery, the City of McAllen Public Works was able to plant trees November 7 for Texas Arbor Day. On this day, the Housing Authority received trees from the Apache Foundation in an effort to increase and beatify the landscaping. We teamed up with a nonprofit group, I AM RGV, which assisted in planting 20 and distributing 20, for a total of 40 seedlings. November 14, Texas Recycle Day, seedlings were handed out to 4th graders who participated in the Arbor Day Poster Contest. Various groups, such as the Girls Scouts and Master Gardeners, received seedlings, too. •
Rowe High School Choir Presents
Rowe High School Auditorium January 15, 18, 19, 21, & 22 at 7:30 p.m. January 16, 17, & 23 – Matinee at 2:00 p.m. Admission $12 **Senior Citizens $10 **Senior Citizen discount available only for performances underlined above
Tickets on sale beginning Monday, November 30 at 8:00 a.m. For ticket information, call (956) 632-5152
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Welcome Home WINTER TEXAN • • • your official connection to the rio grande valley
1st Responders Hold First Meeting of the Season Special to Welcome Home RGV
Marivel
Barrera, clinic director, spoke to the 1st Responders at our first meeting of the season at the Family Medicine Residency Clinic. The clinic is a part of South Texas Health System and the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley. Lance Ames, CEO of the McAllen Heart Hospital, provided an overview of South Texas Health System and how their many facilities work together to provide excellent care of patients. The Family Residency Clinic is located at 205 E Toronto Ave. near the McAllen Heart Hospital. Their hours are 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Monday through Thursday. They are also open Fridays, in the morning only. The clinic telephone number is 956-687-6155. A great convenience to our Winter Texan residents is the walk-in appointment availability, as well as the Canadian insurance and service to Veterans. The McAllen Family Medicine Residency Clinic welcomes new patients and understands the Winter Texan lifestyle, with established medical care at your northern homes and continuation of care needed during your winter stay. They strive to make your transition easy, and an added benefit of being a
part of the South Texas Health System is they have access to hospital records and tests for your complete medical history. As part of their residents’ training, they work in the McAllen Medical Center and McAllen Heart Hospital so the continuity of care from clinic to hospital (and back) is most beneficial to the patient. The clinic is able to cover routine lab work many of our residents need to follow up with ongoing care. The residency clinic meets higher standards than regular clinics; for instance, each patient is seen by two MDs, and each case is reviewed. While touring this facility, we noticed that it is very nice--spacious, new, and in pristine condition. Charles Austin, MD, has been a member of the faculty for seven years and spoke highly of their residents who will be graduating in June. Sunand Kallumadanda, MD, is another member of the faculty who spoke with the 1st Responders concerning the three-year residency program, which began in the RGV in 1977. Three of the June 2016 MD graduates of their Residency Program spoke to the 1st Responders about several issues they deal with commonly with Winter Texans and other patients
they see in their practice. Humberto Chavarria, MD, discussed Warfarin and INR testing and maintenance, which affects many of our residents. Pamela Venegas, MD, discussed high blood pressure and diabetes— their cause and the effects they have on many Winter Texans. Heidi Pareja-Fernandez, MD, covered vaccinations for flu, pneumonia (two vaccines), shingles, and tetanus combined with the whooping cough The recommended schedule for each of these was reviewed. All of these vaccines are available at their clinic
for those who have not received them yet. Marivel Barrera said the clinic would be happy to provide physicians for health fairs at your resorts and can offer screenings for your residents. You can contact her at 956-687-6155 or via email at Marivel.Barrera@uhsrgv.com. A warm thank you to the McAllen Family Medicine Residency Clinic and STHS staff for an interesting and informative tour hosted at their facility, as well as for the delicious refreshments provided for our visit. •
www.welcomehomergv.com
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Welcome Home WINTER TEXAN • • • your official connection to the rio grande valley
Serve Others and Experience Fellowship this Thanksgiving Special to Welcome Home RGV
Infinite
Love is hosting their Thanksgiving Fellowship at the Park Friday, November 27, at 6 p.m. Volunteers will serve a feast to our homeless and needy brothers and sisters at the McAllen Municipal Park (on Quince between Bicentennial and 23rd St.), complete with live music and a clothing and blanket drive. Interested in participating? Here are ways you can serve: If you feel moved to serve on the day of the event, please arrive at the park by 5:30 p.m., and they will assign you to a job. If you would like to donate canned food items or new or gently used
blankets, jackets, or clothes, please bring them to the park by 5:00 p.m. on the day of the event. If you feel moved to help with the turkeys, canned food, or clothing and blanket drive, please donate any monetary amount you wish on the Infinite Love website (loveisinfinite. org) and indicate what you want the donation to be used for. Thank you dearly for your presence in this community. Infinite Love hopes to see you soon. •
From the Inside, Out by Marge Flados
It was 1946. We had been married
less than a year, and we were still getting to know and understand each other a little better each day. My husband was stationed aboard the USS PCER 852, and we had rented a tiny apartment in Cape May, New Jersey. We had an icebox, one that had to be filled with a block of ice twice a week. Our landlady allowed my husband to lay new, blue linoleum on the kitchen floor, and I was amazed and impressed that at 23 years of age, he knew how to lay linoleum. Not sure that he did, but it looked great. We were at church one Sunday in early fall; Norman was in his wool, winter uniform. It was a hot day, and the church was not air conditioned. Nothing was. I was hot. Norman sat beside me, cool as a cucumber while the sweat poured down my neck. He kept whispering, “Think cool, Marge. Stop fanning. Be still. Think cool!” It didn’t work. I stayed hot. We were always broke and in debt, as well, having drawn on future pay, a situation called “dead horse” in the Navy. We had $2.75 to our name that Sunday. After the sermon, the collection plate was passed in church, and Norman reached into his wallet and pulled out our last two dollar bills and dropped them into the plate as I watched in horror. He then withdrew the three quarters from his pocket and pitched them in on top of the two bills. I barely resisted the urge to grab the money back! I was in shock. Pay day was still a week away. On the way home, I let him know how foolish I thought he had been. He didn’t let it bother him and acted as if being penniless was of no
Marge Flados
importance. I began to think, what kind of man is this who pitches all his money in the church offering plate with his darling wife facing a week with no money at all?! A day or two later, I received a letter from my folks, and to my surprise, nestled within its folds was a check. A check! A wonderful check! We had not asked for it. My folks explained they had gifted my siblings with something or other, and they wanted to make it fair for all. The Lord spoke to me that day. Know what he said? Never forget that I will take care of you if you live a good life and abide by my laws. He who gives receives, especially when it is given in perfect peace, and trust that it is right to do so. So it has been throughout the years. God takes care of us in countless ways, and it isn’t always the type of largesse we would prefer. Sometimes the answer is, “No, not now.” I think my husband must have already known and understood that, for he didn’t seem stressed about giving all his money to a church he was attending for the second time. I always referred to that incident in my mind as the story of “Norman’s mite!” • M. Flados is a resident of Harlingen and can be reached at nflados@rgv.rr.com
Nature-Art-Health: Noche de Arte Special to Welcome Home RGV
If
one likes the outdoors, enjoys art, and wants to support good causes, this is the event to attend. Noche de Arte, slated for Saturday, December 5, gives Valley residents a chance to support three great things in life: nature, art and health. The first ever Noche de Arte at the Valley Nature Center, 301 S. Border Avenue in Weslaco, is a live art auction supported by the Valley Nature Center, South Texas Juvenile Diabetes Association (STJDA), and gracious artists of the Rio Grande Valley who have donated their artwork. The event begins at 7 p.m. and is expected to conclude by 10 p.m. In addition to the art auction, Noche de Arte includes appetizers and cocktails, along with musical entertainment. For an extra charge, participants can take part in “Sip and Dip,” which allows attendees to create their own “masterpieces” to take home. Tickets to the event are $50, while tickets including “Sip and Dip” are $75. There are a limited number of tickets available, and they may be purchased by calling the Valley Nature Center at 956-969-2475. The proceeds from Noche de
Arte aid the Valley Nature Center and South Texas Juvenile Diabetes Association in reaching their goals. The Valley Nature Center is a unique garden in the heart of the Lower Rio Grande Valley that features events almost every week, including the Native Plant Project, the Orchid Society Meetingsm and a Special Speaker Series. The Valley Nature Center not only has gorgeous cactus and butterfly gardens but is a great place for field trips and camps. The Valley Nature Center supports STJDA by hosting the Strive to Thrive Camp. Strive to Thrive is a camp for diabetic children and adolescents that focuses on helping them learn to control their diabetes. Strive to Thrive also offers the opportunity for children and teens to socialize with others who face similar situations in managing this non-curable disease. South Texas Juvenile Diabetes Association is the only area organization that serves diabetics who are 18 and younger. STJDA focuses on ensuring that all educational material and medical supplies are free for those who need it. Please call the Valley Nature Center at 956-969-2475 to purchase your tickets for Noche de Arte. •
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WHRGV On the Road
to Herrera’s Meat Market in Harlingen
Bill’s Adventures in the RGV Veterans Day, Memorial Day, and the Veteran’s War Memorial of Texas
Special to Welcome Home RGV
Each
week in Welcome Home Winter Texan, we ask you which dish you can’t wait to have again when you return to the Rio Grande Valley. November 9, we received an email from Beverlee DeCoux about dishes she thinks other readers will love. Here is what Beverlee had to say:
By Bill Lang
On
the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month of 1918, an armistice, or temporary cessation of hostilities, was declared between the Allied nations and Germany in the first World War. November 11, 1919, and every November 11 thereafter, was commemorated as Armistice Day. Armistice Day became Veterans Day in 1938. Veterans Day is a national holiday to honor people who have served in the U.S. armed forces. Veterans Day is not to be confused with Memorial Day; Veterans Day celebrates the service of all U.S. military veterans, while Memorial Day is a day of remembering the men and women who gave their lives and those who perished while defending our freedom. Veterans War Memorial of Texas was established to honor all Americans who were killed or missing in action in all wars and conflicts of the United States. This war memorial is located at the intersection of 29th and Galveston streets in McAllen. This is just east of the McAllen Convention Center. This site has 160 granite panels with stories containing historical information on each war. This war memorial is easy to spot as there is a105-foot-tall black granite “The American Spire of Honor,”
We are Converted Texans but do travel north for an extended summer. One of our favorite pastimes is eating out, like lots of seniors we know! We found a place that is a bit rustic and quite casual, so “dining” is not the right word to use. But it is tasty, quick, has generous portions, and is very inexpensive. You can take out or eat in at the two-table dining area. And on weekends, they grill on a wood cooker right in the parking lot, and the flavors are amazing. It’s Herrera’s Meat Market at 1926 N. 77 Sunshine Strip in Harlingen. We had chicken fried chicken and fried fish today, with beans, rice (or French fries), a lettuce salad, and two tortillas. Each meal was $2.99, and the portions were large. We want to try the wings and fries for $3.99. We have had a grilled chicken dark quarter meal, cooked outside, for $2.59. Just passing it along. ~Beverlee So we decided to drive over to Herrera’s Sunday, November 15, to check it out for ourselves. Beverlee is right on target, and you can tell the food is good because there was a constant flow of happy customers. We met with Baldo Reyna, owner of Herrera’s Meat Market, and he was kind enough to share with us the recipe he uses for Herrera’s popular fried fish so we could share it with all of you. Thanks, Beverlee, for the great tip about Herrera’s. And thanks, Baldo, for sharing your fried fish recipe! No wonder so many people Love That Dish and love Herrera’s Meat Market.
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located in the center of the memorial. The memorial is open seven days a week at no charge. There will be a ceremony there commemorating Pearl Harbor Day December 7 at 11 a.m. This is one of the best local war memorials I have ever seen. I like to ride my trike to the war memorial often. I take my break there, and as I rest, I read the information on a different granite wall each time I visit. I would recommend that everyone visit this war memorial when visiting this area. • Welcome Home Winter Texan weekly readers will have the opportunity to “ride along” with Bill in his monthly column.
Pharr South Bike Club Enjoys First Ride of Season
Baldo Reyna, Owner
NOTE: If you have a dish in the RGV YOU love, send us an email at news@ welcomehomergv.com and tell us the name of the dish and the name of the restaurant or RV park where it is served. You can send us recipes for your own favorite dishes, too! •
Special to Welcome Home RGV
• • • WHRGV Love That Dish Recipe • • •
Herrera’s Meat Market Fried Fish • Egg and milk mixture • Cracker meal • Lemon pepper • Basa (also known as swai or bocourti) fish Combine the cracker meal and lemon pepper (amount depends on your personal taste) on waxed paper or on a pan and set aside. Beat an egg and milk in a bowl, the number of eggs and the amount of milk depending on the amount of fish you are frying. Dredge the fish through the mixture. Then coat both sides of the fish in the cracker meal and lemon pepper mixture. Deep fry until cooked to perfection.
P
harr South Bike Club poses at Bentsen-Rio Grande Valley State Park on their first ride of the season November 18. The group combined a leisurely ride with some bird viewing and a picnic lunch on an absolutely beautiful RGV day. The club rides are scheduled every other week, alternating with a Bird Club outing visiting one of the many RGV birding locations. •
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Welcome Home WINTER TEXAN • • • your official connection to the rio grande valley
Dr. Alexander M. Headley: The Man and the Myth Reviving the truth of one man’s history in the Rio Grande Valley Special to Welcome Home RGV
The
Museum of South Texas History (“MOSTHistory”), a museum chronicling the heritage of South Texas and Northeastern Mexico, welcomes Dr. Joe Chance, who will present an historical program, The Man and the Myth, about one of the Valley’s most controversial figures, Dr. Alexander M. Headley, November 29 at 2 p.m. Chance is a retired professor of mathematics and the author of several books about Valley history. In The Man and the Myth, Chance – himself a well-known amateur South Texas historian and author – draws upon his own knowledge about Dr. Headley and upon the research of Headley’s grandson, the late George Edgerton of Rio Grande City. Over many years, Edgerton sought to establish his grandfather’s legacy as that of a respectable man instead of the villain, as historians have often portrayed him. In Chance’s half-hour presentation, attendees will hear more about Dr. Headley’s time in the Rio Grande Valley from 1880 until his death in 1912. Some historians have denounced Dr. Headley as a villain
for leading several armed rebellions against political rivals in the border communities of Camargo and Rio Grande City. Although many fought and died alongside Dr. Headley in those rebellions, many also survived under his care during the yellow fever epidemic of 1882-1883 in Camargo. Visit the museum to learn more about Dr. Headley and his illustrious life in the Rio Grande Valley and Northeastern Mexico in MOSTHistory’s Courtyard Gallery Sunday, November 29, at 2 p.m. Sunday Speakers Series is included in the fee of regular museum admission. FRIENDS of the Museum are admitted free as a benefit of FRIENDship.
This program is made possible with generous support from the Carmen C. Guerra Endowment. Mrs. Guerra was deeply committed to supporting educational opportunities in the Rio Grande Valley. This named endowment was created at the museum by her family to honor her memory and to continue her commitment to providing opportunities for education to the community. •
About Museum of South Texas History The Museum of South Texas History is accredited by the American Alliance of Museums. It is located in Downtown Edinburg at 200 North Closner Boulevard on the Hidalgo County Courthouse square. Hours of operation are from 1–5 p.m. Sunday and 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Tuesday–Saturday. Founded in 1967 as the Hidalgo County Historical Museum in the 1910 Hidalgo County Jail, the museum has grown over the decades through a series of expansions to occupy a full city block. In 2003, following the completion of a 22,500 square foot expansion, the museum was renamed the Museum of South Texas History to better reflect its regional scope. Today, the museum preserves and presents the borderland heritage of South Texas and Northeastern Mexico through its permanent collection and the Margaret H. McAllen Memorial Archives and exhibits spanning prehistory through the 20th Century. For more information about MOSTHistory, including becoming a FRIEND, visit MOSTHistory.org, like us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter, connect with us on LinkedIn, find us on Google+ or call us at +1-956-383-6911.
www.welcomehomergv.com
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A Joyful Christmas Celebration The Alamo Lions Club Hosts Celebrate Winter Texans December 5 to Benefit Aurora House Special to Welcome Home RGV
Special to Welcome Home RGV
The
Aurora House Foundation Board will hold its first ever Christmas Gala, A Joyful Christmas Celebration, December 5 in the home of Annabel Cardona. Tickets for this elegant cocktail party, which will kick off your holiday season in style, are $100 per person. If you are interested in attending, please call Aurora House at 956973-9690 and ask to speak to Kathy Scheuerman or Diana Gonzalez. Aurora House is a licensed Special Care Facility that provides a residence with compassionate end-of-life care at no cost to the patient. This special house offers love and compassion through trained community volunteers and a staff of nursing assistants. Quality care is provided in a home-like atmosphere, with clean and comfortable private rooms. Aurora House is available to residents who have been diagnosed as terminal and have a life expectancy of fewer than three months. In collaboration with hospice programs
The
throughout the Rio Grande Valley, Aurora House provides shelter and personal care, while the hospice team provides medical care. Aurora House provides both the patient and family with companionship, homemaker services, and compassionate support. Each patient must be enrolled in a hospice program of his/her choice. Learn more at aurorahouse.org. •
Alamo Lions Club will host the first annual Celebrate Winter Texans BBQ-dinner reception to show appreciation for the more than 3,000 Winter Texans staying in the Alamo/Donna area. Our winter guests have a huge economic impact on our community, and they are also a part of the biggest volunteer network in the RGV. We appreciate our Winter Texans. Tickets will be $6, and we will have entertainment, raffle items, and door prizes location. Celebrate Winter Texans will be held at the Alamo Rec Veh Park, located at 1320 W. Frontage Road in Alamo. We know many of our Winter Texans are Lions, and there’s never been a better time to serve than now! For nearly 100 years, Lions have served our communities and have impacted millions of people around the world. To celebrate our 100th anniversary, we are asking Lions to help reach our Centennial Service Challenge goal of serving 100 million people by June 2018. •
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Welcome Home WINTER TEXAN • • • your official connection to the rio grande valley
MAKING CONNECTIONS
Non-Profit Spotlight: Su Casa De Esperanza Special to Welcome Home RGV
Nonprofit Name: Su Casa De Esperanza Address: 8000 Cisne Street Pharr, Texas 78577 Phone Number: 956-781-0276 Website: www.sucasadeesperanza.org Email: scde11@aol.com Contact Person’s Name: Lucy Fernandez Who is the executive director? Lucy Fernandez How and when did your organization begin and who does it serve? Su Casa De Esperanza is a 501(c) (3) organization, founded in 1981 and incorporated in 1991. Su Casa De Esperanza is a family education center serving a population of approximately 10,000 migrant and indigent people living in Las Milpas (South Pharr) and Progreso, Texas. To respond to the needs of the communities served, Su Casa implements the Early Childhood Development Program, which focuses
on parenting and prenatal, infant stimulation and toddler education. The program serves families from the community with children 0-4 years of age. Where is your organization located and what are the hours of operation? Su Casa De Esperanza in Las Milpas (South Pharr) is located at 8000 Cisne Street, Pharr, and the Progreso center is located on FM 1015 in Progreso. The hours of operation are 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday. What kind of donations does your nonprofit organization need? Funding for Su Casa programs comes from individuals, churches, corporations, and foundations. Financial support is vital to the operation of the program. In-kind donations are also accepted to address the needs of the Early Childhood
program, such as baby blankets and clothing and instructional materials for the toddler children who attend classes with their mothers at the centers. Incentives for children, such as toys, are also welcomed. What kind of volunteer opportunities do you have for Winter Texans, Valley retirees, and others in our community? Su Casa holds various events throughout the year for the children, especially during the different holidays, such as Christmas and Thanksgiving. The children also celebrate Dia De Los Niños in the spring, with their parents. Volunteers
are usually needed to assist with these events. Volunteers who enjoy storytelling are always welcome. Su Casa promotes early childhood literacy. Do you have any upcoming events you would like Welcome Home RGV readers to know about? Toddler Christmas Events: December 15 (Las Milpas) and December 16 (Progreso) Toddler Easter Egg Hunt: March 21 Dia De Los Niños Festival: April 27, 28 •
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Gamblers, Gals, and Gangsters at McAllen Memorial High School December 3-5 Special to Welcome Home RGV
One of Broadway’s best musicals,
Guys & Dolls, comes to the Valley in McAllen Memorial High School Choir’s 27th annual musical production! Guys & Dolls is a Tony-awardwinning show, which features a book by Abe Burrows and unforgettable music and lyrics by Frank Loesser. Loesser’s score includes fan-favorites such as “Luck Be a Lady,” “If I Were a Bell,” “Adelaide’s Lament,” “Sit Down You’re Rocking the Boat,” and more! With its unforgettable songs and a cast of gamblers, gals, and gangsters, Guys & Dolls is musical entertainment you can bet on! Performances will be at the McAllen Memorial High School Auditorium at
101 E. Hackberry and will run on December 3 and 4 at 7:30 p.m. and December 5 at 2:00 p.m. Tickets are $10 and can be reserved by calling us at 632-5258. Guys & Dolls is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI). All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MTI. (421 West 54th Street, New York, NY 10019. Tel: (212) 541-4684 www.MTIShows.com)
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Tee Time in the RGV:
An Introduction to Valley Golf Courses Golfing at Winter Gardens Special to Welcome Home RGV
Tickets may be purchased Saturday, November 28, at Memorial High School in McAllen (101 E. Hackberry) from 7:30-10:00 a.m.
Winter
Gardens Golf Course is a private, nine-hole par 3 course located between Winter Ranch RV Resort and Trophy Gardens RV Resort in Alamo. Both properties are owned and operated by the Wilder Corporation. They both have mobile home and park model sites, as well as travel trailer, fifth wheel, and motor home sites. They allow both seasonal and full-time residency. Both resorts have recreation halls, shuffleboard courts, swimming pools, and hot tubs for the residents’ enjoyment. The two parks share the golf course and also the horseshoe pits. All the amenities are for the sole use of the residents. Winter Gardens can be reached by calling 956-781-1358, and Trophy Gardens can be reached by calling 956-787-7717. •
TROPHY GARDENS A Wilder Corporation Park
600 TX-495 Alamo, TX 78516 WINTER GARDENS
956-781-1358 TROPHY GARDENS
956-787-7717
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.
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Welcome Home WINTER TEXAN • • • your official connection to the rio grande valley
Meet You Soon at Rudy’s Country Store and Bar-B-Q with
Paul Chilton
Howdy Partner! Well that is a little different phrase for me. But, when I recently had lunch at Rudy’s, I felt like a true Texan. They have the best barbecue I believe I have ever tasted. For me it was the smoked turkey breast. It was so moist, I swear I almost didn’t have to chew. My companions had the smoked (moist) brisket. I sampled some, and it was just as good. A side of potato salad completed the sandwiches and was really tasty. There are so many meats and sides, it
is really difficult to choose, but what a great dilemma to have. You really couldn’t make a mistake. For larger groups, you can buy meat by the half pound with your choice of bread. Also, larger containers of potato salad, coleslaw, pinto beans, and three-bean salad are available. If sauce is your thing, you can get it in varying degrees of “hotness.” They even have a sissy sauce for the less adventurous. Folks, this is just a small sampling of all the terrific things they have to eat. I get hungry again just thinking about it. Fortunately, they have everything to go, too, and they also have a little store on the premises that sells their products, including
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!
rubs and sauces. Their extensive menu is also available for catering. With the holidays coming, they are featuring smoked turkey breasts, as well as their tasty ham. You can serve these great entrees and won’t have to raise a finger to prepare them. And before I forget, they have some mighty special desserts, such as peach cobbler, banana pudding, chocolate pudding, and other sweet delights. All in all, if you are a lover of great BBQ and mouth-watering sides, check out RUDY’S COUNTRY STORE AND BAR-B-Q. Believe me, you won’t be disappointed! Rudy’s is located just off Hwy 281 at 209 West Nolana in Pharr. Their phone number
is 956-781-8888, if you want to call to place a to-go order. So hope to meet you soon at Rudy’s, and lets all bring our appetites! Dig in, sticky fingers and all, and enjoy some great fixins! • Paul Chilton is a Winter Texan who hails from Naperville, Illinois. He and his wife enjoy dining out and tasting different dishes the Valley has to offer. He looks forward to sharing his love for food and his experiences meeting others through this weekly article.
www.welcomehomergv.com
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• • • RECIPECONNECTION with Executive Chef Bettina Tolin • • • • • • • •
Chorizo
and Cornbread Stuffing
Serves 8 2 pounds fresh Mexican chorizo (I like Chorizo de San Manuel)
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro, plus more for garnish
2 medium white onions, finely diced
1 cup chicken stock (low or no-sodium)
2 medium carrots, finely diced 2 celery stalks, finely diced
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
4 garlic cloves, minced
½ cup queso fresco cheese, for garnish Kosher Salt
4 cups coarsely crumbled cornbread
Freshly ground black pepper
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 350 degrees F. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and remove the chorizo from the casing. Cook the chorizo, breaking it up with a spoon and stirring occasionally until it begins to brown, about 5 minutes. Add the onion, carrot, celery and garlic to the chorizo and cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables have browned, about 10 minutes. Add the crumbled cornbread and cilantro and gradually pour in
enough of the stock so the stuffing is not too dry but at the same time not too wet. Stir gently. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Butter a casserole dish and spread the stuffing in an even layer. Bake until it’s heated through and lightly browned on top, about 20 -25 minutes. Garnish with the cilantro and queso fresco.
Bon Appetit!
••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• This Week’s Recipe is Brought to You By:
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Welcome Home WINTER TEXAN • • • your official connection to the rio grande valley