GOLF ANYONE?
Tee Time in the RGV features Howling Trails Golf Course!
UPCOMING EVENTS!
Check out our weekly listings of what’s happening in the RGV!
RECIPE CONNECTION!
Executive Chef Bettina Tolin shares another delicious recipe!
Welcome Home See review on page 24.
See calendar on page 5.
VOLUME 1 • ISSUE 7 • December 2, 2015
Try her recipe on page 35.
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WINTER TEXAN
• • • your official connection to the rio grande valley • • •
MMA to Commemorate 65th Anniversary of the Battle of Chosin Reservoir Welcome Home, Winter Texans! I hope you had a wonderful Thanksgiving holiday filled with fellowship, food, and, if your situation is anything like mine, plenty of football! This is my favorite time of year for many reasons. The holidays are always a festive time of year, and spending time celebrating with my friends and family is a true blessing.
MMA to pay homage to heroes of a forgotten battle, forgotten war
Special to Welcome Home RGV
To
commemorate the 65th anniversary of the Battle of Chosin Reservoir, Marine Military Academy will hold the Chosin Few Memorial Ceremony Saturday, December 12 at 10 a.m. at the Chosin Few It’s also special because so many of Memorial Gate on the MMA campus our Winter Texans arrive shortly after in Harlingen. The public is invited Thanksgiving and continue to make to this event to pay homage to the their way until shortly after the we ring heroes of a forgotten battle and a in the new year. Every day ,we receive forgotten war. the gift of your presence - and if you Survivors of the Battle of Chosin ask me, that is the best gift our region Reservoir, or those known as the Chosin Few, will travel from across could ask for. the United States to participate in this ceremony. The public is invited For those of you who are just to attend this event, especially all arriving, you may not know that our Korean War veterans. winter visitors bring an estimated $700 According to MMA Superintendent million to our economy each year.bSo Col R. Glenn Hill, the Korean War when I say your presence is a gift, I (June 25, 1950 – July 27, 1953) is mean it! Thank you for choosing our known as the “Forgotten War.” region as your home away from home. “At MMA, the south entrance of It is a pleasure to be of service to you our campus is named Chosin Few and to keep you informed about all Memorial Gate,” Hill said. “Because the Valley has to offer while you’re with so many people are unfamiliar with this period of history, parents and us. I hope you enjoy this week. I look guests frequently ask me and the forward to seeing you out and about! • staff why ‘Chosin’ is misspelled. After I tell them the spelling is correct, I We’re just connecting the dots, tell them about the Battle of Chosin Reservoir during the Korean War.” The Battle of Chosin Reservoir
Kristi
(Nov. 27 – Dec. 13, 1950) was one of the bloodiest battles during the Korean War. It was also one of the coldest battles in history and often referred to as “Frozen Chosin.” It was during the coldest winter in 100 years in North Korea that 8,000 fighters, mostly Marines, were surrounded by 120,000 Chinese soldiers at the Chosin Reservoir. In 17 days of brutal, sub-zero temperatures, the men battled wave after wave of Chinese soldiers as they fought 78 miles down a steep and narrow mountain road they called the MSR (Main Supply Route). By inflicting crippling losses on the Chinese, the Allied troops actually broke through the trap and reached freedom at the Hungnam port. Their fighting spirit, courage, and determination saved the lives of 98,000 civilian refugees.
Survivors and family members of the fallen men at the Battle of Chosin Reservoir who plan to attend the Dec. 12 ceremony are asked to call (956) 4219222 or email salazar@MMA-TX.org. •
Marine Military Academy is a collegepreparatory boarding school for young men in grades 8-12 with an optional post-graduate year. Since 1965, MMA is the only private school in the world based on the traditions and values of the U.S. Marine Corps. Located in Harlingen, Texas, MMA has been home to thousands of sons from across the world and is quarters to the historic Iwo Jima Monument. To learn more about MMA, visit MMA-TX.org.
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
Texas Veterans + Family Alliance “A New and Innovative Program to Care for our Veterans” by State Senator Juan ‘Chuy’ Hinojosa Senator Juan Chuy Hinojosa, Texas
Special to Welcome Home RGV
As
a Vietnam Veteran for the United States Marine Corps, I understand the difficult sacrifices that military men and women and their families endure on a daily basis, and the challenges they face when they return home. I was honored to serve my country in time of war just as I am now honored to serve the people of Texas as a State Senator where I am able to work to improve health and mental services for our Veterans. One of the highest priorities that members of the Texas Legislature have is our obligation to our service members, veterans, and their families. More than 1.7 million veterans live in Texas and we must work to meet their needs. As a veteran and the Vice-Chair of the Senate Finance Committee, I am particularly proud of the 84th Legislature’s support for mental health services for veterans. Senate Bill 55, which I co-authored,
Welcome Home
creates the Texas Veterans + Family Alliance. This new and innovative program will support community mental health programs by providing access to the services and treatment veterans and military families need, when they need them. The Texas Legislature appropriated $20 million to fund the Texas Veterans + Family Alliance program. These appropriations will be matched by local and private funds to provide $40 million in mental health support for veterans and their families. This program is unique as it will allow the state to partner with the private sector to tailor mental health programs that will meet the specific treatment needs of each community. Texas Veterans + Family Alliance will begin with a pilot phase funded by $1 million in state appropriations, with a match of $1 million in local and private funds. The program will focus on community collaborations
to address gaps in mental health services for veterans and their families. The Health and Human Services Commission will select projects to be funded by the pilot grant program through a competitive statewide requestfor-proposal (RFP) process, with decisions on successful applicants being made in early 2016. Texas is partnering with a pilot program administrator, the Meadows Mental Health Policy Institute, who will work with organizations to identify matching funds for the pilot project. Access to efficient and effective mental health care is critical for all Texans, but we owe a unique debt to our veterans and their families, particularly those who have served and sacrificed for us in combat. Texas Veterans + Family Alliance is a bold initiative to address mental health needs in our local
Weekly e-Blasts
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WINTER TEXAN
Kristi’s e-Blasts are sent weekly October - March to our subscribers. Find out what’s happening across the Valley. These e-Blasts include helpful links and fliers for “Featured Events.” Sign up today!
your official connection to the rio grande valley
Publisher Kristi Collier
kristi@welcomehomergv.com
Accounting Sharon Flores
sharon@welcomehomergv.com
Administration Amie Gray
ArtsRGV.com
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
fran@welcomehomergv.com
Contributing Writer Chris Ardis
news@welcomehomergv.com
Graphic Design Jenny R Carpenter silentBYTES design
artwork@welcomehomergv.com
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rio grande valley
219 W. Nolana, Ste A • McAllen, Texas 78504
956-687-5115 www.welcomehomergv.com
© Copyright 2015 Welcome Home, Rio Grande Valley, LLC. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any electronic means without written permission from Welcome Home, Rio Grande Valley, LLC.
communities. I encourage you to learn more at www.texasstateofmind. org/tvfa. •
In the Rio Grande Valley of Texas we live for the Arts!
Special to Welcome Home RGV
Since early 2004, Virginia Haynie
Gause, founder of ArtsRGV.com, dreamed of having a robust webbased events calendar for the whole Rio Grande Valley of Texas. Her two major goals were to have a tool that would allow people to search for events happening on the days they could attend, as well as one that would permit organizers to plan well in advance so major events would not all clump on the same date! On the evening of December 31, 2005, Virginia announced the first version of the ArtsRGV.com website. Then she went to a New Year’s Eve party to celebrate. She knew the ArtsRGV events calendar was the beginning of something important, and she was happy to be giving this gift to her
community. George Gause, a local historian and an avid collector of Mexican folk art, as well as Chinese tea ceremony objects, has always been supportive of his wife getting involved in this exciting project. He does his part for the Arts by attending as many events as he can and bringing his merry laughter! To subscribe to the ArtsRGV listserv to receive an email about Arts events happening in the RGV, simply send a blank email to rgv_arts-subscribe-request@listserv. utrgv.edu or send a personal email to virginia.gause@retiree.utrgv.edu. Visit ArtsRGV.com for a complete calendar of Arts events in the Valley.•
Follow Us on Facebook! Welcome
Home RGV has three ways to join the conversation on Facebook. Our WHRGV page is dedicated to community events and information that will appeal to people of all ages. Our Winter Texan page is more specific to our Winter Texan target market. Finally, our latest addition is our Winter Texans RGV group. Member parks and business partners can send event fliers to us at news@welcomehomergv.com, and we will be happy to post them on our social media sites any time! Perks for Partners! •
www.facebook.com/whrgv www.facebook.com/wintertexan www.facebook.com/groups/wintertexansrgv
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Cooking Up Some Nostalgia with Cheryl Tiegs
Special to Welcome Home RGV
“Hiking is my favorite exercise. When I’m hiking, I love the slience, the beauty around me. It’s sort of meditative the breathing, feeling my body respond, feeling my muscles react. I really enjoy it and that’s healthy, isn’t it?”
McAllen ISD: Season of Hope Art Show Thinking Like an Artist Special to Welcome Home RGV
In October, McAllen ISD’s Alonzo
No-Fat Chunky Gazpacho Tip: You’ll want to make this a day or two ahead of time so that the flavors can mix and mellow. Keep it chilled and serve it chilled, with or without a trio of avocado slices on top of each portion.
• 3 lbs (about 8 lg) ripe tomatoes, peeled, seeded, pulp cut into chunks, juices reserved • 1 lg cucumber, peeled and diced (remove the seeds if you like, not necessary) • 1/2 cup diced onion • 1/2 cup diced green bell pepper • 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper • 2 whole scallions, trimmed and thinly sliced • 3 garlic cloves, minced • 2 tbsp red wine vinegar • 2 tbsp dry sherry or sherry vinegar • Salt and freshly milled black pepper • 1 to 1 1/2 cups chilled tomato juice • 1 to 2 tsp hot sauce (optional) • Thin avocado slices and minced fresh herbs, such as cilantro or chives, for serving (optional) 1. In a large bowl or pitcher, stir together the tomatoes and their juices, the cucumber, onion, bell peppers, scallions, and garlic. When blended, add the vinegar, sherry, and salt and pepper to taste. Stir in just enough of the tomato juic to make the soup liquid but not soupy. Add hot sauce to taste; correct the seasonings. 2. Cover and chill for at least a day - 2 is even better. If necessary, add more cold tomato juice to reach the consistency you want for serving. Serve cold, garnished with the avocados and herbs, if desired.
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. •
Detailing Services Available in the Rio Grande Valley
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Ron Bergquist 940-241-1430
Cleans • Polishes• Protects
ronandbarb@cleanwithoutwateronline.com
And there is a business behind the bottle!
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Septic needs.
De Leon Middle School hosted a series of art workshops for students, with the collaboration of art teachers from De Leon, Cathey Middle School, Lincoln Middle School and Lamar Academy. Called “Thinking Like an Artist: Elementary Art Workshops,” the purpose was to give elementary students the opportunity to work through the process of creating a work of art. Mini-lessons were provided in drawing facial features realistically, drawing people as a cartoon, using colored pencils like a pro. and using markers as a water color replacement. Students brainstormed ideas, made
a plan and spent the last workshop making a work of art that represents who they are at this moment in their lives. Forty students from across the district participated all three Saturdays to complete their works of art. These works will be on display, along with work from McAllen ISD middle school and high school students, at the Season of Hope Art Show Friday, December 4, at the Art Village on Main in McAllen. The response to these workshops was so positive that another series of workshops will be held in the spring. •
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Welcome Home WINTER TEXAN • • • your official connection to the rio grande valley
READING CONNECTION
A Rio Grande Valley Adventure by Roda Grubb
Chapter 1: “Monsters” Are Everywhere
Sadie stomped on her brakes to avoid
hitting the cream-colored lump in the middle of the RV park’s long driveway to the main street. Her car slid to the side of the road and came to a skidding stop. Rushing over to the pile, she saw it move and breathed a sigh of relief. “Are you ok?” She knelt down to get a better look. Staring up at her through long, dark lashes were big brown eyes filled with fear and confusion. They were connected to a lean, muscular young, teenage boy in an animal loincloth and leather sandals. “Is this some joke?” she thought as the young lad sat up. “Where am I?” his furrowed brows squinched together and looked into Sadie’s solid blue eyes with questions. “Why, you’re in Mission, Texas, outside my RV park. Where are you from?” Sadie was thinking he must have crossed the border from Mexico and gotten lost. “The Wild Horse Desert is where my people live, near the winding river. I
have seen no river here,” was his first reply. Then, curiosity overcame him. “What is the monster who let you out?” “You must mean my car. It’s a way I travel from one place to another. How do you travel?” “By horse, of course. Mostly by foot when we go hunting or gathering.” Realizing they were still in the middle of the road, Sadie took the young man by the arm. When she opened the passenger-side door for him, he froze. “How do I know the monster will spit me back out as he did you?” Sadie didn’t know if she should laugh or cry. “I promise the car will do you no harm. Please sit on this seat,” she gestured. Ever so cautiously he dropped himself into the comfortable seat. Finding the monster comfortable surprised the boy. “My name’s Sadie. What’s your name?” “Soljo.” “What city do you live close to?” “What is a city?” Sadie wondered if he had hit his head before she found him.
“I’m going to take you to my friend’s house. He might be able to help us.” She headed the car back into the park, immediately stopping as Soljo let out a scream, curled in a ball in his seat. “What’s the matter, Soljo?” She struggled to keep her voice calm. “What is this magic? How do you make the monster go?” Sadie began once again to drive to her friend’s as she replied to Soljo. “We all drive vehicles like this, which run on gasoline. There is no magic. It’s all pure science.” She made the last turn to her friend’s trailer. “George! Oh, George!” she called loudly through the closed door. This was a little early for George, but this was an emergency and he would know what to do. A tall man with tousled medium brown hair opened the door. “What’s up, Sadie?” His deep voice was warm and friendly. “I found Soljo, here, in the middle of the driveway. I thought he had been hit. He seems extremely confused and totally lost.” Sadie knew her retired
doctor friend would never turn away the beginning of an adventure. “I figured you could check him out and tell us what to do.” Giving Sadie a twisted grin, albeit with twinkling eyes, he waved them into his double-wide trailer with a heavy sigh. “Sadie, you have to stop bringing me your lost causes.” But his voice was gentle as he went to retrieve his black bag with his doctoring things. “Where are you from, son?” “I not your son. I am son of Jo.” “Well, son of Jo, how did you come to be in the middle of the road?” “I was hunting with my friends and climbed into big tree. I thought they were right behind me and climbed out on big limb. I looked behind me, lost my balance and fell. When I got up RGV ADVENTURE CONTINUED ON PAGE 29 >>
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DANCE ENTERTAINMENT & SHOWS
CALENDAR OF EVENTS WEEK OF
December 2 - December 8, 2015 WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 2, 2015 Christmas Craft Sale, 07:00 AM, Country Omelette Restaurant, 3420 N. 10th Street, McAllen. I will be selling my handmade personalized Christmas ornaments and other Christmas décor 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. Craft Show, 08:00 AM, Canyon Lake RV Resort, 4770 N. Mayberry Road, Mission. For information call 956580-7654. 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. Yoga Class, 09:00 AM, Sleepy Valley Resort, 2301 N. Abram Rd., Mission. Come enjoy the call and peace. Yoga is a good way to get the peace and relaxation you are looking for. For information call 956-581-1871. Exhibit Display: Electricity, 09:00
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. •
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/ OPEN HOUSE Palm Resaca MH Park, 10:00 AM, Palm Resaca Mobile Home Park, 100 Tangerine Blvd., Brownsville. Lookin’ for a place to hang your hat for the Winter season? Then come on by-we’ve got some great new inventory with lots to choose fromin every price range! There are some “fixer-uppers” and some “bring your tooth brush and jammies and you’re all set” types of homes. We also have EMPTY LOTS available. Bring in an approved mobile & get 6 months FREE
O&M! Park Models are welcome. For information call 956-585-2284. information call 956-546-7423. Line Dance, 01:00 PM, Lakewood RV Power Walk, 10:00 AM, Sleepy Valley Resort, 4525 Graham Road, Harlingen. Resort, 2301 N. Abram Rd., Mission. For information call 965-428-7116. Come have a great time walking. Round Dance, 01:00 PM, Lakewood Indoors in the Clubhouse. Walk for RV Resort, 4525 Graham Road, fun, to take the pounds off, enjoy the Harlingen. For information call 956fellowship of others. For information 423-1170. call 956-581-1871. Jam, 01:00 PM, Eastgate MH & RV Quinta Mazatlan Garden Walk, 10:00 Park, 2801 E. Harrison Ave., Harlingen. AM, Quinta Mazatlan, 600 Sunset, For information call 956-423-3137. McAllen. Drop in to Chat and walk ZUMBA Class, 02:00 PM, Sleepy with a garden expert. Novice and Valley Resort, 2301 N. Abram advanced gardeners will enjoy the Road, Mission. FREE Admission. themed garden walks with interesting Enjoy a ZUMBA class with certified stories about plants and gardens. instructors, Pierre and Sylvie, for Each month the topic will change information call 956-581-1871. based on the season in the valley! Acoustical Jam, 02:00 PM, Park $3.00 Adults, $2.00 Seniors. For Place Estates, 5401 W. Business information call 956-681-3370. 83, Harlingen. Free Admission, Line Dance, 12:30 PM, Casa del refreshments available, musicians Valle, 1048 N. Alamo Road, Alamo. by invitation, open to the public. For For information call 956-783-5008. information call 956-412-0375. Music Jam, 12:30 PM, Paradise Resort Happy Hour w/Brenda Cohn, 03:00 Estates, 301 E. Hall Acres Road, PM, Snow to Sun RV Resort, 1701 Pharr. Free admission, lunch served N. International Boulevard, Weslaco. at 11:30, all musicians welcome. For Pass the Hat, BYOB. Wine and beer information call 956-787-1521. sold at bar. Free ice. For information RC Racing, 01:00 PM, Penitas RV call 620-441-1173. Park, 304 19th Street, Penitas. 1/10 Happy Hour w/Diego, 03:00 PM, scale electric stadium trucks and Southern Comfort RV Resort, 1501 S. Corr 2w/d. Beginners and spectators Airport Drive, Weslaco. Pass the hat, welcome! No dues or fees, for for information call 956-638-3158. SCHEDULE OF EVENTS CONTINUED ON PAGE 6 >>
The Wells Fargo BIG BAND Holiday Concert at Quinta Mazatlan Special to Welcome Home RGV
Wells Fargo invites you to swing
into the holiday season with a BIG BAND Holiday Concert in the park. The original Dean Canty Band will perform Thursday, December 10 at 6:00 p.m. at Quinta Mazatlan in McAllen. Dean is a leader, arranger, trumpet soloist, and vocalist with the band, which will present a concert featuring traditional, as well as contemporary, Christmas songs and other favorite gems. The Dean Canty BIG BAND consists of 18 swinging musicians and one lovely female vocalist, Ani Tharpe. The band performs music from the libraries of, and in the style of, Harry James, Woody Herman, Glenn Miller, Count Basie, Stan Kenton, the Dorsey Brothers, and other nationally known bands, all the while, including
arrangements from Frank Sinatra, Michael Buble, Harry Connick, James Brown, Brian Setzer, Asleep at the Wheel, and other pop stars. Dean is an alumnus of the Tommy Dorsey Orchestra with Warren Covington, the Jimmy Dorsey Orchestra with Lee Castle and Bill Tole, and Les Elgart. He has appeared as first trumpet with Bob Hope, Julio Iglesias, Vikki Carr, Jerry Lewis, and many others. Located in the Rio Grande Valley of Texas, the band has performed locally, nationally and in Mexico, for over 35 years, backing such groups as the Platters, Four Diamonds, Four Aces, Four Lads, Gene White Show from Las Vegas, and 4 Wunnerful Girls from the Lawrence Welk Show. The Dean Canty Band will play outdoors on the north lawn of
McAllen’s White House, with a special appearance by Santa Claus (for family photos), cookies, and cider. The concert is $5.00 per person and tickets can be purchased at the door. Please dress for the weather. For
more information, contact Quinta Mazatlan at 956-681-3370 or visit www.quintamazatlan.com. •
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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 Happy Hour w/Dan White, 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. Baked Potato Dinner, 04:00 PM, Restful Valley Ranch, 7130 W Expressway 83, Mission. Maple. Street, $7.00 pp, For information call 616-204-8067. 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. Homemade Spaghetti, 05:30 PM, Weslaco Elks Lodge, 201 S. Border Avenue, Weslaco. $7 per plate, comes with the works. For information call 956-968-7115. Spaghetti Nite, 05:30 PM, American Legion Post 101, 417 S. Cage Boulevard, Pharr. Spaghetti & Side Garlic Bread - $7.00, Extra Garlic Bread - $.50, Music by Robert & Joe. For information call 956-787-7451.
Line Dance Lessons, 06:00 PM, Fun-N-Sun RV Resort, 1400 Zillock Road, San Benito. $2.00 pp. For information call 269-838-9519. Entertainment w/TBA, 06:30 PM, Bit-O-Heaven RV & MH Park, 1051 W. Business Hwy 83, Donna. For information call 956-464-5191. Karaoke, 06:30 PM, Paradise Resort Estates, 301 E. Hall Acres Road, Pharr. Free admission, doors open at 6:15 pm, snack bar open. For information call 956-787-1521. Bingo, 07:00 PM, Sleepy Valley Resort, 2301 N. Abram Road, Mission. FREE Admission. For information call 956-581-1871. Dance w/Bottomline Band, 07:00 PM, Tip O’Texas RV Resort, 101 E. Sioux Road, Pharr. $5.00 pp. Dance w/Dixon & Company, 07:00 PM, Mission West RV Park, 511 E. Loop 374, Palmview. $6.00/person, free popcorn, concession available Dance w/Jolly Huntsmen Band, 07:00 PM, Fiesta Village RV Park, 205 S. Stewart Road, Mission. $5.00 pp, For information call 956-585-9264. Square & Round Dance, 07:00 PM, Lakewood RV Resort, 4525 Graham Road, Harlingen. For information call
956-423-1170. Entertainment w/Lindley Creek, 07:00 PM, McAllen Mobile Park, 4900 N McColl Road, McAllen. $6.00 pp, for information call 956-682-3304. 2 Step & Waltz Lessons, 07:30 PM, Fun-N-Sun RV Resort, 1400 Zillock Road, San Benito. $2.00 pp. Must have a partner. For information call 269-838-9519.
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2015 Craft Sale, 08:00 AM, Pine To Palm Resort Park, 802 S. International Blvd., Weslaco. Coffee and Donuts at 8:00 am. Lunch 11:00 am - Noon for a fee. For information call Nila Stoick 956-447-9642. Craft Show, 08:00 AM, Tropic Winds RV Resort, 1501 N. Loop 499, Harlingen. For information call 956-423-4020. Peppermint Palace Country Jam, 09:00 AM, El Valle Del Sol/Luna, 2500 E. Business 83, Mission. For information call 956-585-5704. 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. Ballroom Dance, 10:00 AM, Casa del Valle, 1048 N. Alamo Road, Alamo. For information call 956-783-5008. Square Dance w/Dorty Plus Dance, 10:00 AM, Tip O’Texas RV Resort, 101 E. Sioux Rd., Pharr. For information call Randy Dougherty 602-617-1841. Bird Walk, 10:00 AM, Edinburg WBC, 714 Raul Longoria 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. Buckets of Fun - Counting Nature’s Gifts, 10:00 AM, Quinta Mazatlan, 600 Sunset, McAllen. Time: 10:00 am to 11:00 am, Ages: 2 to 5, Fee: $3 adult, $2 participating child. Note: Large groups, please register in advance. For information call 956-681-3370. Water Aerobics, 11:00 AM, Sleepy Valley Resort, 2301 N. Abram Road, Mission. Come join us for a great time. Great way to relax, exercise and meet people. For information call 956-581-1871. Pancake Breakfast, 11:00 AM, The Grove Park, 612 E. Business 83, San Juan. Welcome back Winter Texans. Come out and enjoy your choice of pancakes, eggs, sausages, waffles and all the coffee you can drink. The best pancakes in the valley! Country Western Jam, 12:30 PM, Bentsen Grove Resort, 810 Bentsen Palm Drive, Mission. For information call 956-585-0703. Jam Session, 01:00 PM, W & I Resort, 206 S. Stewart Rd., Mission. Cookies, bars and popcorn will be served. All jammers and listeners are welcome. For information call 956-585-6594. Square Dance w/Dorty C2 Review/
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DANCE ENTERTAINMENT & SHOWS Workshop, 01:30 PM, Tip O’Texas RV Resort, 101 E. Sioux Road, Pharr. For information call Randy Dougherty 602-617-1841. Peckers Bar & Grill, 03:00 PM, Peckers Bar & Grill, 1600 N. Westgate, Weslaco. No cover charge. Square Dance, 03:00 PM, Lakewood RV Resort, 4525 Graham Road, Harlingen. For information call 956-423-1170. Entertainment w/Dixon & Company, 03:00 PM, Pecker’s Neighborhood Bar & Grill, 1600 S. Westgate Drive, Weslaco. For information call 956-226-3433. 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. Happy Hour w/Diego, 03:00 PM, Llano Grande Lake Park Resort, 2215 E. West Blvd., Mercedes. Pass the hat, for information call 956-565-1506. 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. Thursday Night Dinner, 04:00 PM, Eldorado Acres RV Park, 610 N. FM 492, Mission. $5.00 pp, 1/2 Angus burger or Grilled Chicken Breast served on homemade bread, lettuce, tomato and French fries. For information call 956-581-6718. Pancake Dinner, 04:30 PM, Lemon Tree RV Inn, 1740 E. Business 83, Mission. BYOTS, For information call 262-395-3509. Jam, 05:30 PM, Restful Valley Ranch, 7130 W. Expressway 83, Mission. For information call 616-204-8067. Meat Draw Nite, 05:30 PM, American Legion Post 101, 417 S. Cage 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. Cowboy Church and Show, 06:00 PM, Victoria Palms RV Resort, 602 N. Victoria Road, Donna. Call for information 956-782-3263. Chicken Fried Steak Dinner, 06:00 PM, Weslaco Elks Lodge, 201 S. Border Avenue, Weslaco. $9.00 a plate. For information call 956-968-7115. Birds in Folklore, Mythology & Legends: Erik Bruhnke, 06:00 PM, Quinta Mazatlan, 600 Sunset Drive, McAllen. Explore nature Thursday evenings with great speakers about everything from birds and Butterflies to culture and art of the Rio Grande Valley. For information call 956-681-3370. 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. US Too Prostate Cancer Support Group, 07:00 PM, Texas Oncology, McAllen. US TOO Prostate Cancer support group, Spouse/partner are welcome to attend. 956-687-5150 “The Hobbit”, 07:00 PM, Albert L. Jeffers Theatre, Corner of University Drive and Sugar Road, Edinburg. Attend this marvelous production for both children and adults! General admission - $3.00 per person.The Box Office opens one hour prior to each performance. For more information or special accommodations please call the box office at (956) 665-3581. In The Heights - The Musical, 07:00 PM, Roberto Pulido Performing Arts Center, 801 E. Canton, Edinburg. $7.00 pp. Come enjoy of night of MUSICAL THEATRE in our brand new performing arts center. Presented by Robert Vela High School! For information call 956-289-2650. Dance w/Diego, 07:00 PM, Pine To Palm Resort Park, 802 S. International Blvd., Weslaco, $5.00 pp. Doors open at 6:30. BYOB. Donations for ice and
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popcorn. Soda available. For information call 956-968-5760. Entertainment w/Lindley Creek Christmas Show, 07:00 PM, Winter Ranch RV Resort, 600 Hwy 495, Alamo. $7.00 pp. For information call 956-783-4587. Guys & Dolls Musical, 07:30 PM, McAllen Memorial High School, 101 E. Hackberry Avenue, McAllen. Performances will be at the McAllen Memorial High School Auditorium at 101 E. Hackberry and will run on December 3 & 4 at 7:30pm and December 5 at 2:00pm. Tickets are $10 and can be reserved by calling us at 632-5258.
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 4, 2015 Patio Sale, 07:00 AM, Rio Valley Estates, 715 N. Westgate Drive, Weslaco. For information call 956-968-2708. Patio Sale, 07:30 AM, Oleander Acres RV Resort, 2421 S. Conway Ave., Mission. Breakfast, Bake Sale & Park Sale. For information call 262-497-4241 Craft Sale, 08:00 AM, Sleepy Valley Resort, 2301 N. Abram Road, Mission. FREE Admission, Beautiful
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homemade craft items, leather goods, homemade pies and breakfast and lunch items for sale. For information call 956-581-1871. Yoga Class, 09:00 AM, Sleepy Valley Resort, 2301 N. Abram Rd., Mission. Come enjoy the call and peace. Yoga is a good way to get the peace and relaxation you are looking for. For information call 956-581-1871. 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 Rd., Mission. Come have a great time walking. Indoors in the Clubhouse. Walk for fun, to take the pounds off, enjoy the fellowship of others. For information call 956-581-1871. Night Club 2, 10:00 AM, Tip O’Texas RV Resort, 101 E. Sioux Road, Pharr. For information call Bob Battaglia 972-220-9285. 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
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SCHEDULE OF EVENTS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 7 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. West Coast Swing, 11:00 AM, Tip O’Texas RV Resort, 101 E. Sioux Road, Pharr. For information call Bob Battaglia 972-220-9285. Friday Fish Fry, 11:00 AM, Riverside Club Bar & Grill, 214 E. Chimney Rd., Mission. Catfish, Cod, Shrimp or Combo Dinners with Baked Beans, Hush Puppies, Cole Slaw and French Fries. For information call 956-581-1033. Soup & Bake Sale-fundraiser, 11:00 AM, Lakewood RV Resort, 4525 Graham Rd, Harlingen. To provide Christmas dinner and gifts to local children. Donations appreciated. For more information call 956-428-7116. Round Dance, 01:00 PM, Lakewood RV Resort, 4525 Graham Rd., Harlingen.
For information call 956-423-1170. Country Jam, 01:00 PM, McAllen Mobile Park, 4900 N. McColl Road, McAllen. Dessert table will be provided. For musician information, 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. Rock N Roll Jam, 01:00 PM, Green Gate Grove, 700 N. Bentsen Palm Drive, Mission. For information call 636-4595458 or 319-795-8101 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. 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. McAllen Tamale Fest, 05:00 PM, Municipal Park, N. Bicentennial Boulevard, McAllen. The Boys & Girls Club of McAllen (BGCM) is gearing up for its third annual McAllen Tamale Fest, sponsored by H-E-B. This year’s festival will be a two-day event, set for Friday, Dec. 4, and Saturday, Dec. 5, at Municipal Park. BGCM continues its partnership with the City of McAllen and the McAllen Chamber of Commerce for “Christmas in the Park,” featuring McAllen Tamale Fest and Candlelight Posada. The McAllen Tamale Fest consists of a tamaletasting competition, tamale making classes and the popular tamale eating contest. You can also find live entertainment, children and family activities, artisan booths, tamale and food vendors and a beer tent. (956) 682-5791. Jam Session, 05:30 PM, Hidden Valley Ranch, 7600 Long Drive, Mission. Refreshments at 4:30, Jam session at 5:30. For information call 956-580-4477 Friday Fish Fry, 05:30 PM, Weslaco Elks Lodge, 201 S. 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 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. Abram Road, Mission. $6.00 pp, Hamburger, chips, soda and dessert for $6.00, serving at 5:30. Karaoke follows. For information call 956-581-1871. McAllen Artwalk @ Archer Park, 06:00 PM, Archer Park, Main St., McAllen. Arts and craft vendors, plus the live outdoor music series Music After Hours, every month. Free and open to the public. http://www.mcallen. net/residents/arts.aspx Entertainment w/Carlos Canas, 06:30 PM, Alamo Rec Veh Park, 1320 W. Frontage Road, Alamo. $5.00 pp. Advance Tickets Available. For information call 956-783-5440. Entertainment w/Lynn Dvorak, 06:30 PM, Sunshine RV Resort, 1900 Grace Avenue, Harlingen. For more information call 402-640-4739. 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. “The Hobbit”, 07:00 PM, Albert L. Jeffers Theatre, Corner of University Drive and Sugar Road, Edinburg. Attend this marvelous production for both children and adults! General admission - $3.00 per person.The Box Office opens one hour prior to each performance. For more information or special accommodations please call the box office at (956) 665-3581. In The Heights - The Musical, 07:00 PM, Roberto Pulido Performing Arts Center, 801 E. Canton, Edinburg. $7.00 pp. Come enjoy of night of MUSICAL THEATRE in our brand new performing arts center. Presented by Robert Vela High School! For information call 956-289-2650. Dance w/Golden Era, 07:00 PM, Bentsen Grove Trailer Park, 810 S. Bentsen Palm Drive, Mission. $5.00 pp, for information call 956-585-0703. Dance w/Ron O’Neil, Party of One, 07:00 PM, Pharr South, 1402 S. Cage Boulevard, Pharr. $5.00 pp, for information call 989-773-3586.
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DANCE ENTERTAINMENT & SHOWS Dance w/Route 66, 07:00 PM, Winter Ranch RV Resort, 600 Hwy 495, Alamo. $5.00 pp. BYOB/Concession Open, Free popcorn. For information call 956-783-4587. Dance w/SweetWater, 07:00 PM, Ranchero Village Mobile Home Park, 1900 South Bridge Avenue, Weslaco. $5.00 pp. BYOB. Ice, mix and popcorn available. For information call 956-351-5856 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 Music & Dance, 07:00 PM, Roadrunner RV Park, 1222 N. Cesar Chavez Road, Alamo. For information call 956-787-8047. Entertainment w/4 His Glory, 07:00 PM, Eastgate MH & RV Park, 2801 E. Harrison Avenue, Harlingen. $5.00 pp. Advance ticket sales: Wednesday - Friday 10:00 am - 1:00 pm. Doors open at 6:00 pm. For information call 956-423-3137. Entertainment w/Razz Ma Tazz, 07:00 PM, Victoria Palms RV Resort, 602 N. Victoria Rd., Donna. Donations accepted. Call for information 956-782-3263. Big Band/Rock & Roll Jam, 07:00 PM, Palm Shadows RV Park, 200 N. Val Verde Road, Donna. For information call 507-273-3895. Guys & Dolls Musical, 07:30 PM, McAllen Memorial High School, 101 E. Hackberry Avenue, McAllen. Performances will be at the McAllen Memorial High School Auditorium at 101 E. Hackberry and will run on December 3 & 4 at 7:30pm and December 5 at 2:00pm. Tickets are $10 and can be reserved by calling us at 632-5258.
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 5, 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 956-581-6718. All You Can Eat Pancakes, 07:00 AM, Alamo Paradise Acres, 1513 W. Crockett Ave., Alamo. Pancakes $2.50, biscuits & gravy $3.00. For information call 956-283-1771. Breakfast, 07:00 AM, Restful Valley Ranch, 7130 W. Expressway 83, Mission. $3.00 pp, Menu rotates. For information call 616-204-8067. Saturday Morning Breakfast, 07:00
AM, Chimney Park RV Resort, 4224 S. Conway, Mission. $4.00 pp, for information call 956-585-5061. Flea Market, 07:00 AM, Winter Green Estates, 500 N. Bryan Rd., Mission. Lunch Served. For information call 989-708-0921. Garage Sale, 07:00 AM, Country Sunshine RV Resort, 1601 S. Airport Drive, Weslaco. Main Hall, for information call 956-638-3158. Rummage Sale, 07:00 AM, Sun Valley Village, 15659A Buttercup Court, Harlingen. Located in Harlingen (North on Altas Palmas Road) in the Club House, Exit off expressway 83 at Altas Palmas Road, turn North and follow signs. Large household items, kitchen & household goods, large & small appliances, crafts, clothing, books & a bake table. Breakfast & lunch available (breakfast tacos, hot dogs, sandwiches, desserts, etc.) For information call 956-365-4468. Breakfast, 07:30 AM, Alamo Rec Veh Park, 1320 W. Frontage Rd., Alamo. For information call 956-783-5440. Saturday Breakfast, 07:30 AM, Aladdin Villas, 1415 Aladdin Villas Blvd. W, Mission. $3.50 pp. Your choice of: Ham or Sausage, pancakes or waffle or French toast w/ applesauce, hot coffee and water. For information call 956-581-1288. 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. CPR Class, 08:00 AM, McAllen Medical Center, 301 W. Expressway 83, McAllen. 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. All Park Sale & Breakfast, 08:00 AM, Valhalla Mobile Park, 505 Ramseyer Road East, Edinburg. Come see we have; furniture, antiques, glassware, household and jewelry along with usable items all for sale. Later stop by the clubhouse for biscuits and gravy breakfast. For information call
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763-689-4223. Arts & Craft Show and Sale, 08:00 AM, Winter Haven Resort, 3501 Old Port Isabel Road, Brownsville. Contact information 956-831-7755 Christmas Bazaar, 08:00 AM, Park Place Estates, 5401 W. Business 83, Harlingen. Free Admission. Bring your Christmas list and shop! Over 50 crafters & vendors, great gifts & yummy baked goods, for information call 956-412-0375. Craft Sale & Flea Market, 08:00 AM, Snow to Sun RV Resort, 1701 N. International Boulevard, Weslaco. Contact information and to reserve a table call Lynn at 956-532-5856 Garage Sale, 08:00 AM, Fun-N-Sun RV Resort, 1400 Zillock Road, San Benito in Rec Hall. For information call 956-357-3320. Park Wide Sale, 08:00 AM, Kenwood RV Resort, 1201 N. Main Street, La Feria. For information call 956-797-1875. Park Wide Yard Sale, 08:00 AM, 1015 RV Park, 1402 S. International Blvd., Weslaco. For information call 515-490-0418. Patio Sale, 08:00 AM, Restful Valley Ranch, 7130 W. Expressway 83,
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Mission. For information call 616204-8067. Patio Sale, 08:00 AM, Palm Shadows RV Park, 200 N. Val Verde Rd., Donna. For information call 956-464-3326. Yard Sale, 08:00 AM, Bentsen Palm RV Park, 3501 N. Bentsen Palm Dr., Mission. Lunch served at 11:00 pm, for information call 956-585-5807. Biscuits and Gravy, 08:30 AM, Roadrunner RV Park, 1222 N. Cesar Chavez Road, Alamo. For information call 712-259-2222. Bird Walks @ Resaca de la Palma, 08:30 AM, Resaca de la Palma, 1000 New Carmen Blvd., Brownsville. Travel by foot or on our new and amazingly quiet electric trams to reach our destinations. We have many different trails to venture onto that are relatively flat and ADA accessible. With 1,200 acres of lush, riparian woodlands we will also be birding by ear. For information call 956-350-2920. Volunteer Mornings, 08:30 AM, Quinta Mazatlan, 600 Sunset Dr., McAllen. Join our volunteer coordinator for a fun morning of work and learning in our native gardens! Students, earn
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DANCE
Every Saturday FREE Popcorn and Ice 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 Dance w/Sweet Water December 26 • 7:00 PM $6.00 pp • BYOB
HAPPY HOUR Happy Hour w/Diego December 3 • 3:00 PM Pass the Hat • BYOB
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Every Friday December 4 • 2:00 PM December 11 • 2:00 PM December 18 • 2:00 PM January 1 • 2:00 PM
KARAOKE
Every Wednesday Karaoke w/Harry & Judy December 2 • 5:00 PM December 9 • 5:00 PM BYOB
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SCHEDULE OF EVENTS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 9 your service hours at Quinta Mazatlan! We are also a site certified for Texas Master Naturalist hours. Growing Growers Farmers Market, 09:00 AM, Firemen Park, 201 N. First St., McAllen. Year Round Farmers Market with all local vegetables, fruits, herbs, 100% Certified Grassfed Beef, Gulf Caught Shrimp, Artisan Goat Milk Cheese, Eggs, Honey, Jams, Jellies, and Fresh Baked Goods, including baked items for those on special diets. Located under a protected pavillion, with restrooms and kitchen for demonstrations. For information call 956-330-6410. Beginning Birder w/Edinburg WBC Staff, 09:00 AM, Edinburg WBC, 714 Raul Longoria Road, Edinburg. Useful techniques, tips, and identification skills are the focus of this birding series for adults. Led by area experts, the individual sessions will offer something new and interesting for bird-watchers of all skill levels. Whether you attend one session or all of them, your knowledge of the avian world is sure to improve. For information call 956-381-9922. 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. Jackson Street Market Days, 09:00 AM, Downtown Harlingen, Jackson Street, between 4th & Commerce, Harlingen. FREE Admission, This event is held outdoors on Jackson Street, which has long been Harlingen’s Main Street. It stretches 5 blocks, from 4th Street to Commerce. If you need a specific address to locate the event, use 123 E. Jackson, which is approximately the middle. For information call 956216-4910. 2nd Annual “A Season of Hope” Arts Festival, 10:00 AM, Art Village on Main, 800 N. Main Street, McAllen. Local artists will show and sell their
work. Entertainment all day long by McAllen ISD school children. For information call 956-686-8682. Gingerbread House Workshops, 10:00 AM, International Museum of Art & Science, 1900 W. Nolana Avenue, McAllen. $8.00 per person for IMAS Member/$10.00 per person for NonMembers. Advance reservations required. Please register in advance by calling 956-682-0123 or by visiting the IMAS front desk. Limit of 25 people per session. Laguna Madre Art League’s Annual Christmas Sale, 10:00 AM, Port Isabel Community Center, 213 Yturria, Port Isabel (Behind Library). Sale of original art works and crafts, for information contact dfranklin1@rgv.rr.com. Living History, 10:00 AM, Palo Alto Battlefield National Historical Park, 7200 Paredes Line Road, Brownsville. FREE Admission. See demonstrations of U.S.-Mexican War era weapons, tactics, and soldier life. Program features live musket and artillery demonstrations. Program is dependent upon weather. For information call 956-511-2785. Senior Saturdays, 10:00 AM, International Museum of Art & Science, 1900 W. Nolana 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 life style changes our community desperately needs. McAllen Tamale Fest, 05:00 PM, Municipal Park, N. Bicentennial
Boulevard, McAllen. The Boys & Girls Club of McAllen (BGCM) is gearing up for its third annual McAllen Tamale Fest, sponsored by H-E-B. This year’s festival will be a two-day event, set for Friday, Dec. 4, and Saturday, Dec. 5, at Municipal Park. BGCM continues its partnership with the City of McAllen and the McAllen Chamber of Commerce for “Christmas in the Park,” featuring McAllen Tamale Fest and Candlelight Posada. The McAllen Tamale Fest consists of a tamale-tasting competition, tamale making classes and the popular tamale eating contest. You can also find live entertainment, children and family activities, artisan booths, tamale and food vendors and a beer tent. (956) 682-5791. Entertainment w/Lynn Dvorak, 11:00 AM, Don-Wes Flea Market, 208 N. Victoria Road, Donna. For more information call 402-640-4739. Gingerbread House Workshops, 12:30 PM, International Museum of Art & Science, 1900 W. Nolana Avenue, McAllen. $8.00 per person for IMAS Member/$10.00 per person for NonMembers. Advance reservations required. Please register in advance by calling 956-682-0123 or by visiting the IMAS front desk. Limit of 25 people per session. 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. “The Hobbit”, 02:00 PM, Albert L. Jeffers Theatre, Corner of University Drive and Sugar Road, Edinburg. Attend this marvelous production for both children and adults! General admission - $3.00 per person.The Box Office opens one hour prior to each
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JAM SESSIONS
performance. For more information or special accommodations please call the box office at (956) 665-3581. Guys & Dolls Musical, 02:00 PM, McAllen Memorial High School, 101 E. Hackberry Avenue, McAllen. Performances will be at the McAllen Memorial High School Auditorium at 101 E. Hackberry and will run on December 3 & 4 at 7:30pm and December 5 at 2:00pm. Tickets are $10 and can be reserved by calling us at 632-5258. All Park Garage Sale, 02:00 PM, Fiesta Village RV Park, 205 S. Stewart Road, Mission. For more information call 956-585-9264. Gingerbread House Workshops, 03:00 PM, International Museum of Art & Science, 1900 W. Nolana Avenue, McAllen. $8.00 per person for IMAS Member/$10.00 per person for NonMembers. Advance reservations required. Please register in advance by calling 956-682-0123 or by visiting the IMAS front desk. Limit of 25 people per session. 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. 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
presents The Nutcracker. McAllen Civic Center Auditorium. Tickets are on sale now! For more information visit: Deborah Case Dance Academy Dance for the Needy-Fundraiser, 07:00 PM, Lakewood RV Resort, 4525 Graham Road, Harlingen. To provide Christmas dinner and gifts to local children. Donations appreciated. For information call 956-428-7116. Dance w/Albert Mikesh Band, 07:00 PM, Tropical Valley Acres, 1240 E. Bus. Hwy 83, Mission. For information call 956-583-5582 Dance w/Diego, 07:00 PM, Trophy Gardens RV Resort, 800 Hwy 495, Alamo. $5.00 pp, For information call 956-783-1003. Dance w/Howard O. Bedient, 07:00 PM, McAllen Mobile Park, 4900 N. McColl Road, McAllen. $5.00 pp, for information call 956-682-3304. Dance w/Manuel Rivera, 07:00 PM, Cottonwood Country Club, 1001 Ed Carey Drive, Harlingen. $6.00 pp, BYOB, For more information call 218-234-6411 or 956-438-6232. Dance w/Ralph & The Cruisers, 07:00 PM, Llano Grande Lake Park Resort, 2215 E. West Blvd., Mercedes. For
problems with food? Come join us for an informative support group on how to help control your cravings. Pat 956-874-5041. 28th Annual Lighted Boat Parade, 06:00 PM, Laguna Madre Bay, South Padre Island & Port Isabel. Boats of all sizes decorated in holiday style travel the waters from Southpoint Marina in Port Isabel and ending at Louie’s Backyard on South Padre Island. Spectator locations throughout the waterfront. For more information, contact the Chamber at (956) 943-2262. 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. Dance w/Dixon & Company, 06:30 PM, McAllen Elks Lodge No. 1402, 3500 Jordan Road West, McAllen. For information call 956-226-3433. Entertainment w/Johnny Ray Gomez, 06:30 PM, Alamo Rec Veh Park, 1320 W Frontage Road, Alamo $6.00 pp. Advance Tickets Available. For information call 956-783-5440. “The Hobbit”, 07:00 PM, Albert L. Jeffers Theatre, Corner of University Drive and Sugar Road at the Edinburg. Attend this marvelous production for both children and adults! General admission - $3.00 per person.The Box Office opens one hour prior to each performance. For more information or special accommodations please call the box office at (956) 665-3581. In The Heights - The Musical, 07:00 PM, Roberto Pulido Performing Arts Center, 801 E. Canton, Edinburg. $7.00 pp. Come enjoy of night of MUSICAL THEATRE in our brand new performing arts center. Presented by Robert Vela High School! For information call 956-289-2650. Rio Grande Valley Ballet presents: The Nutcracker, 07:00 PM, McAllen Civic Center Auditorium, 1300 S. 10th St., McAllen. Rio Grande Valley Ballet
MEALS
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information call 956-412-0375. Dance w/Renaissance Rockers, 07:00 PM, Paradise Resort Estates, 301 E. Hall Acres Rd., Pharr. $10.00 pp, advance ticket sales, for information contact Nicole LaCarte, 956-283-8035, doors open at 6:15 pm, snack bar open. Dance w/SweetWater, 07:00 PM, Hidden Valley Ranch, 1900 Long Drive, Mission. $5.00 pp. Doors open one hour prior to dance. BYOB. Soda, ice and popcorn available. For information call 956-580-4477 Dance w/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/The Coins, 07:00 PM, Paradise South RV Resort, 9099 N. Mile 2 West Road, Mercedes. $6.00 pp, for information call 956-825-9509. Dance w/Walter Plant, 07:00 PM, Snow to Sun RV Resort, 1701 N International Boulevard, Weslaco, $5.00 pp, BYOB. Wine and beer sold at bar. Free ice. Contact information 956-756-4958. Welcome Back Winter Texan Dance, 07:00 PM, Kenwood RV Resort, 1201 N. Main St., La Feria. For
SCHEDULE OF EVENTS CONTINUED ON PAGE 12 >>
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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 11 information call 956-797-1875 Karaoke, 07:00 PM, American Legion Post 101, 417 S. Cage Blvd., Pharr. For information call 956-787-7451. Dance w/Ron O’Neil, 07:30 PM, Eastgate MH & RV Park, 2801 E. Harrison Ave., Harlingen. $5.00 pp. BYOB, Popcorn & Ice provided. For more information call 815-494-5159. 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, DECEMBER 6, 2015 Craft Show & Sale, 08:00 AM, Winter Haven Resort, 3501 Old Port Isabel, Brownsville. For information call
956-831-7755. 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 services. For information call 956-585-0703 Church Service, 08:45 AM, San Juan Gardens RV Resort, 900 E. Business 83, San Juan. Pastor Len Mitchell, public is welcome to attend, for information call 956-781-1082. Church Service, 08:45 AM, Oleander Acres RV Resort, 2421 S. Conway Avenue, Mission. For information call 262-497-4241. Church Services, 08:45 AM, Winter Haven Park, 1015 W. Sam Houston Blvd., Pharr. Non-denominational 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, 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, Fiesta
Village RV Park, 205 S. Stewart Road, Mission. For information call 956-585-9264. 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, Chimney Park RV Resort, 4224 S. Conway, Mission. For information call 956-585-5061. 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, Southern Comfort RV Resort, 1501 S. Airport Drive, Weslaco. For information call 956-638-3158. 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 956-383-8189. 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. Port Isabel Antique & Flea Market, 09:00 AM, Beulah Lee Park, Hwy 100, Port Isabel. For information call 956-455-6798. Church Service, 09:15 AM, Sleepy Valley Resort, 2301 N. Abram Rd., Mission. For information call 956-581-1871. 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, Tropic Winds RV Resort, 1501 N. Loop 499, Harlingen. Non-denominational. For information call 956-423-5484. Church Service, 09:30 AM, Country Palms RV Park, 600 E. FM 495, San Juan. Pastor Tom Shouse, for information call 956-787-0680. Church Services, 10:00 AM, Paradise Resort Estates, 301 E. Hall Acres Road, Pharr. For information call 956-787-1521. Laguna Madre Art League’s Annual Christmas Sale, 10:00 AM, Port Isabel Community Center, 213 Yturria, Port
Isabel (Behind Library). Sale of original art works & crafts, for information contact dfranklin1@rgv.rr.com. 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-1p Square, Round & Line Dance for Needy Children, 01:00 PM, Lakewood RV Resort, 4525 Graham Road, Harlingen. For information call 956-428-7116. Gospel Jam, 01:00 PM, Leisure World, 400 E. 18th Street, Weslaco. For information call 956-447-3821. Jam Session, 01:00 PM, 1015 RV Park, 1402 S. International, Weslaco. For more information call: 956-968-7516 Gingerbread House Workshops, 01:30 PM, International Museum of Art & Science, 1900 W. Nolana Avenue, McAllen. $8.00 per person for IMAS Member/$10.00 per person for NonMembers. Advance reservations required. Please register in advance by calling 956-682-0123 or by visiting the IMAS front desk. Limit of 25 people per session. Gospel Jam, 01:30 PM, Mission West RV Park, 511 E. Loop 374, Palmview. Concessions Available. For information call 956-585-5551. “The Hobbit”, 02:00 PM, Albert L. Jeffers Theatre, Corner of University Drive and Sugar Road, Edinburg. Attend this marvelous production for both children and adults! General admission - $3.00 per person.The Box Office opens one hour prior to each performance. For more information or special accommodations please call the box office at (956) 665-3581. In The Heights - The Musical, 02:00 PM, Roberto Pulido Performing Arts Center, 801 E. Canton, Edinburg. $7.00 pp. Come enjoy of night of MUSICAL THEATRE in our brand new performing arts center. Presented by Robert Vela High School! For information call 956-289-2650. Rio Grande Valley Ballet presents: The Nutcracker, 02:00 PM, McAllen Civic Center Auditorium, 1300 S. 10th St., McAllen. Rio Grande Valley Ballet presents The Nutcracker. McAllen Civic Center Auditorium. Tickets are on sale now! For more information visit: Deborah Case Dance Academy Live Music w/Renaissance Rockers, 02:00 PM, Riverside Club Bar & Grill, 214 E. Chimney Road, Mission .For information call 956-581-1033. Entertainment w/Lindley Creek, 02:00 PM, Enchanted Valley Ranch, 7300 Monroe Street, Mission. For information call 956-519-8597. Ice Cream Social, 02:30 PM, Mission West
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DANCE ENTERTAINMENT & SHOWS RV Park, 511 E. Loop 374, Palmview Gingerbread House Workshops, 03:30 PM, International Museum of Art & Science, 1900 W. Nolana Avenue, McAllen. $8.00 per person for IMAS Member/$10.00 per person for NonMembers. Advance reservations required. Please register in advance by calling 956-682-0123 or by visiting the IMAS front desk. Limit of 25 people per session. BBQ & Potluck, 05:30 PM, American Legion Post 101, 417 S. Cage Blvd., Pharr. Football, BBQ, Free Pot Luck, for information call 956-787-7451. 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. Jam Session, 06:00 PM, Tip O’Texas RV Resort, 101 E. Sioux Road, Pharr. FREE Admission For information call 956-787-6461. Entertainment w/Jef Wilson, 06:30 PM, Citrus Valley RV Park, 2901 W. State Highway 107, McAllen. For information call 715-928-2347. Entertainment w/Keys, Strings & Harmony, 07:00 PM, Paradise South RV Resort, 9099 N. Mile 2 West Road, Mercedes. $5.00 pp. For information call 956-825-9509. Entertainment w/Razz Ma Tazz Christmas Show, 07:00 PM, Valley View Estates, 2100 Vernon Street, Mission. Advance tickets $5.00 pp, At the Door $6.00 pp, for information call 916-813-9635. 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, DECEMBER 7, 2015 Courtyard Sale & Flea Market, 08:00 AM, Chimney Park RV Resort, 4224 S Conway, Mission. Variety of vendors and flea market items. Breakfast & Lunch Available. Tables available for rent, call 956-585-5061 for information. 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. Beginning Line Dance, 11:00 AM, Casa del Valle, 1048 N. Alamo Road, Alamo. For information call 956-783-5008. Jam Session, 11:00 AM, Southern Comfort RV Resort, 1501 S. Airport
Drive, Weslaco. Lunch served at 11:00 am, Jam starts at 12:00 pm. For information call 956-638-3158. Pre-Jam Luncheon, 11:00 AM, Winter Haven Park, 1015 W. Sam Houston Boulevard, Pharr. Pre-Jam luncheon. Soup, sandwiches, homemade pie, drinks. Everyone Welcome. For information call 956-781-7881. Jam Lunch, 11:30 AM, Enchanted Valley Ranch, 7300 Monroe Street, Mission. Variable menu each week. For information call 956-519-8597. Line Dance, 12:30 PM, Casa del Valle, 1048 N. Alamo Road, Alamo. For information call 956-783-5008. 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, 01:00 PM, Winter Haven Park, 1015 W. Sam Houston Blvd., Pharr. Jam sessions are directed by Glenn “Buddy” Collins. Jammers by invitation only. Free admission, cookies available. Everyone come and enjoy music and social time. For information call 956-781-7881. Jam Session, 01:00 PM, Alamo Palms Resort, 1341 W. Business 83, Alamo. Main Hall, Everyone welcome, for information call 956-787-7571. 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! Rock & Roll Jam, 01:00 PM, Enchanted Valley Ranch, 7300 Monroe Street, Mission. For information call 956519-8597. 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 Rd, 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 956-423-1170.
JAM SESSIONS
MEALS
Happy Hour w/Diego, 03:00 PM, Snow to Sun RV Resort, 1701 N. International Blvd., Weslaco. Pass the Hat, BYOB. Wine and beer sold at bar. Free ice. For information call 620-441-1173. Dinner, 04:30 PM, Bentsen Grove Resort, 810 Bentsen Palm Drive, Mission. $6.50 pp, check each week for menu! For information call 956-585-0704. Spaghetti Dinner, 04:30 PM, American Legion Post 439, 219 E. Commercial Ave., La Feria. $8 pp 956-797-3701 Burgers, 05:00 PM, Paradise Park Inc, 100 E. Hackberry Avenue, McAllen. For information call 956-682-8081. 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, Mission West RV Park, 511 E. Loop 374, Palmview. Concessions Available. For information call 956-585-5551. Country Jam, 06:00 PM, The Grove, 612 Business 83, San Juan. For
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information call 507-219-0579. 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. Entertainment w/4 His Glory, 07:00 PM, Victoria Palms RV Resort, 602 N. Victoria Road, Donna. $7.00 pp. Concessions available. BYOB. Call for information 956-782-3263. Entertainment w/Razz-Ma-Tazz Christmas Show, 07:00 PM, Tip O’Texas RV Resort, 101 E. Sioux Road, Pharr. Donations Show choir from James “Nikki” Rowe High School in McAllen. For information call 956-787-6461 “Cowboy Christmas Concert”, 07:30 PM, Performing Arts Center, 6300 Ocean Drive, Corpus Christi. Michael Martin Murphey’s Cowboy Christmas Concert, Monday, December 7, 2015 at 7:30p.m. Texas A&M UniversityCorpus Christi Performing Arts Center 6300 Ocean Drive, Corpus Christi, TX. Tickets on sale now! Shop online anytime at http://tamucc.tix.com/ or
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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 13 charge by phone at (361) 825-ARTS (2787) or visit our box office at 6300 Ocean Drive inside the Performing Arts Center Lobby. Box Office Hours 9a.m.-3p.m. Monday-Friday.
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 8, 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. Craft Sale & Luncheon, 08:00 AM, Winter Ranch RV Resort, 600 Hwy 495, Alamo. Wanted: Vendors selling their own hand-crafted items. No Jewelry vendors at this time please! Donuts and baked good @ 8:00 am. For information call 956-783-4587. Fellowship Hall. Craft Show, 08:00 AM, Southern Comfort RV Resort, 1501 S. Airport Drive, Weslaco. For information call 956-638-3158.
Park Wide Garage Sale, 08:00 AM, Leisure Valley Ranch, 1920 E. Bogey Drive, Mission. For information call 956-566-4883. 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. 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. 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. Countrycising - Line dance + exercise, 10:00 AM, Casa del Valle, 1048 N. Alamo Road, Alamo. For information call 956-783-5008. Intermediate Line Dance, 10:00 AM, Tropic Winds RV Resort, 1501 N. Loop 499, Harlingen. For information call 956-423-5484. Open Jam, 11:00 AM, Leisure World, 400 E 18th Street, Weslaco. 11:00 - 12:00 Lunch Served, 12:00 - 2:00 Music, For information call 956-447-3821. Magic Valley Retirement P.E.O. Meeting, 12:00 PM, Echo Hotel & Conference Center, South Closner Boulevard, Edinburg. Lunch will be served at 12:15 pm followed by meeting and program. For reservations call Lynne Kephart 563-419-1619. Diabetes Management Class, 01:00 PM, 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 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 956-682-8081. Jam Session, 01:00 PM, Roadrunner RV Park, 1222 N. Cesar Chavez Road, Alamo. Lunch served at 11:30 a.m., for information call 712-259-2222. Jam Session, 01:00 PM, Lakewood RV Resort, 4525 Graham Road, Harlingen. For information call 956423-1170. Jam w/Ray & Gynger, 01:00 PM, Oleander Acres RV Resort, 2421 S. Conway Avenue, Mission Oleander’s Famous Cake served at half time!! For information call 262-497-4241. Bluegrass Jam Session, 01:30 PM, Kenwood RV Resort, 1201 N. Main Street, La Feria. For information call 956-797-1875. Parkinson’s Disease Support Group, 02:00 PM, First United Methodist
Church, 4200 N. McColl Road, McAllen. For persons with PD and/or their caregivers. For information call 956-686-3784. Country Music Jam, 02:00 PM, Casa del Valle, 1048 N. Alamo Road, Alamo. For information call 956-783-5008. Round Dance w/The Ski’s 3+Figures, 03:00 PM, Tip O’Texas RV Resort, 101 E. Sioux Rd., Pharr. For information call Bob or Kay 956-460-7520. Happy Hour w/Lynn Dvorak, 03:00 PM, Snow to Sun RV Resort, 1701 N. International Blvd., Weslaco. Pass the Hat, BYOB. Wine and beer sold at bar. Free ice. For information call 620-441-1173. Country Jam Dinner, 04:00 PM, Canyon Lake RV Resort, 4770 N. Mayberry 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. TACO Tuesday, 04:00 PM, Aladdin Villas, 1415 Aladdin Villas Boulevard W, Mission. Your choice of beef or chicken, 2 good sized tacos or taco salad, and with hot coffee or Ice tea or water, and don’t forget your awesome dessert while it lasts, $5.00 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm. For information call 956-581-1288. Country Jam, 05:30 PM, Enchanted Valley Ranch, 7300 Monroe St., Mission. For information call 956-519-8597. Taco Nite, 05:30 PM, American Legion Post 101, 417 S. Cage Blvd., Pharr. 3 Taco Plate - $6.50, Taco Salad $7.50, Chalupa - $2.50 each, Extra Taco - $2.50, Extra Sour Cream - $.50, for information call 956-787-7451. Live entertainment w/Jim Staton. Country Jam, 06:00 PM, Canyon Lake RV Resort, 4770 N. Mayberry Road, Mission. For information call 956580-4545. RGV Chapter Texas Master Naturalist Meeting, 06:30 PM, Cameron County Annnex Building, 1390 W. Expressway 83, San Benito. FREE Admission. A schedule of speakers is posted at www.rgvctmn.org For information call 314-374-5889 Entertainment w/Rope N Wind, 07:00 PM, Victoria Palms RV Resort, 602 N. Victoria Road, Donna. $6.00 pp, concessions available, BYOB, for information call 956-782-3263 Entertainment w/Lindley Creek, 07:00 PM, Alamo Rose RV Park, 938 S. Alamo Road, Alamo. $7.00 pp. Concessions Available. For information call 956-783-2605. Karaoke, 07:00 PM, American Legion Post 101, 417 S. Cage Boulevard, Pharr. •
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ROCKIN’ THE RGV
The Richest Songs in the World by Bernie Crawley
Since
pop music became a global industry, a handful of songs have outshone, outperformed, and outlasted all of the others. These songs have sold more copies, had more cover versions, and been played more often and in more places than any other songs in the world. Here we are going to learn about the 10 songs that earned the most money for the people who wrote them. How does a song become rich? By earning royalties. Songwriters get paid for every performance of a song, every copy sold, and every time it appears on TV or radio. If you hear a song, someone. somewhere should be earning royalties. There is a set rate payable for usage all over the world, and this money is collected by a central collecting society, such as BMI or ASCAP. It is then distributed four times a year to the writers, even if you didn’t know your song was being used in that country. In the U.S., songwriters get approximately 10 cents per track on CDs sold, and half of that on an iTunes download. Radio stations must also pay each
time they play a song. Money can also be made from licensing a song in a feature film or a TV commercial or for use on a web site. Song #10 was written in California in the 40s and is one of the oldest songs on the list. It was written on a steaming hot day in 1945 when Mel Torme went to the house of his lyricist Bob Wells. Wells had been working on a lyric that went, “Chestnuts roasting on an open fire…” Torme loved the lyric, and in less than half an hour had written the melody. That same day, he took it to Nat King Cole, who loved it, and a little later, recorded it. To date, this song has earned approx. 12.5 million pounds for the music publisher. Song #9 Pretty Woman, written in 1964 by Roy Orbison and Bill Dees. This song was a big hit in 1964 but took on a new life when it was licensed for use in the 1990 film of the same name. Synchroniaation and licensing fees are confidential, but it can cost anywhere from $75,000 to $1 million to license a song for a big budget movie. To date, Pretty Woman
Bernie and his wife, Red
has earned almost $20 million. Song #8 Every Breath You Take. 1983 Police. Written by Gordon Sumner (AKA Sting). This song was a #1 in the U.S., the UK, South Africa, Ireland, and Italy, and it has been reported that in 2003, Sting was making $2000 a day from this song. In 1979, Puff Daddy sampled it and sold a staggering seven million copies of his record. Sting received 100 percent song-writing royalties on this version. To date, this song has earned $20 million. Song #7. Another Christmas song. 1934. Santa Claus is Coming to Town, written by Haven Gillespie and J. Fred Coots. Gillespie said the
lyric idea came from something his mother had warned him about when he was a child. In 1934, it was #1 in the sheet music charts. Since then, it has been recorded over 200 different times. Song #6. Stand By Me. 1960. Ben E King, written by Ben E King, Jerry Leiber, and Mike Stoller. A massive hit on both sides of the Atlantic in 1960, but then it became an even bigger hit in 1986 when featured in the movie of the same name. Then it became a #1 hit in the UK a year later, after being featured in a TV commercial for Levi 501 jeans. For use in a commercial, fees are negotiable, starting at $75,000 and going as high as $1 million. To date, this song has earned $26 million. Tune in to next week’s issue of Welcome Home Winter Texan to find out which of “The Richest Songs in the World” made it to the top five, as told by Bernie. • Bernie Crawley is one half of the comedy and music duo Bernie & Red, who perform throughout the Valley every January.
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Welcome Home WINTER TEXAN • • • your official connection to the rio grande valley
PARK NEWS
Arts and Crafts Sale at Winter Haven Special to Welcome Home RGV
J
oin us December 5 at the Arts and Crafts Show and Sale from 8:00 a.m. to noon at Winter Haven Resort, 3501 Old Port Isabel Rd. in Brownsville. Delight in the jewelry, special book signings, unique sewn household goods, ornaments, stained glass, porcelains, and HOMEMADE pies!! Bring your friends along! For more information, contact Winter Haven Resort at 956832-7755 or at activities@ winterhavenresort.com.
Razz-Ma-Tazz Christmas Show at Tip O’ Texas Special to Welcome Home RGV
See you Saturday! •
Save the Dates for the All Valley RV and Outdoor Show Special to Welcome Home RGV
T
T
he RGV Chapter of the Texas Recreational Vehicle Association had its November meeting at Stefano ‘s in Harlingen. Save the date for the All Valley RV and Outdoor Show January 14-16, 2016 at the Mercedes Livestock Showgrounds. For more information visit www.rgvparks.org. •
ip O’ Texas RV Resort is proud to announce they will be hosting Nikki Rowe High School’s Razz-Ma-Tazz show choir this year for a Christmas show December 7 at 7:00 p.m. in their Main Hall. This ultra-popular group of ultra-talented high schoolers is selected from a pool of over 300 students in the choir program each year to come and put on shows for everyone here in the Rio Grande Valley. Tip O’ Texas RV Resort was lucky enough to book these guys twice and are looking forward to another great season of Razz-Ma-Tazz’s eclectic and entertaining mix of swing, contemporary, patriotic, and Broadway tunes. If you are interested in seeing the show this year at Tip O’ Texas RV Resort, come on down Monday, December 7, at 7:00 p.m. Admission is free, and donations are encouraged to help support the Nikki Rowe show choir keep on doing what they do best! •
www.welcomehomergv.com
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PARK NEWS
VIP La Feria RV Park Hosts 1st Responders Special to Welcome Home RGV
RGV 1st Responders met November Save the Dates for Christmas for the Needy Events at Lakewood RV Resort Special to Welcome Home RGV
Lakewood
RV Resort, located at 4525 Graham Road in Harlingen, invites Welcome Home Winter Texan readers to their 22nd Annual Christmas for the Needy events. Proceeds from the events allow the Lakewood residents to bring Christmas to a dozen or more needy families whose children attend Stuart Place Elementary in Harlingen. All fundraising events are open to the public. Lakewood invites you to attend and to bring your friends, too! Here are the events: December 4, 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. ~ Soup for the Needy Fundraiser and Bake Sale. December 5, 7 - 10 p.m. ~ Dance for the Needy Fundraiser with Paul Neff. December 6, 1 - 3 p.m. ~ Square
Dance, Round Dance, Line Dance Fundraiser. Raffle tickets for Quilt Fundraiser go on sale soon! Last day to buy raffle tickets is December 7 at Lakewood’s Monday meeting. Winning name will be drawn at the meeting. Saturday, December 12 is Christmas for the Needy event. Details at Monday meetings beginning November 16, and updates each Monday through December 7 Lakewood thanks you for all your support If you want to help in any way, contact: Donna at 269-806-1428 Steve at 269-806-5611 Via E-Mail: swright883@aol.com See you at Lakewood! •
18 at VIP La Feria RV Park for an opportunity to network with other 1st Responders in the Leadership Program from the Lower Valley. 1st Responder attendees were from Port Isabel and extending across the Valley, including several from the VIP La Feria team who shared their experiences and the equipment used in their community. Discussion followed about the volunteers, recruiting, and pagers. Guests Brice Calahan and Ken Euler from Med Air Service spoke about ground and air ambulance service for patients in Cameron, Hidalgo and adjacent counties, as well as service across the country. Emergency helicopter operations were covered, with information about safety and landing assistance and
protocols. Rita Huether, program coordinator, presented information concerning heat-related emergencies, which affects residents not acclimated to weather in the RGV, especially those residents who have recently arrived from cool northern climates with low humidity. Often seniors are anxious to quickly unpack and settle in, thus succumbing to heat-related medical complications. 1st Responders noted this happens in several of their communities each year. Many thanks to VIP La Feria for hosting the 1st Responders and giving them an occasion to visit this RV resort. For more information on how to start a 1st Responder program in your park, please call Rita Huether at 956687-5115 or contact her via email at rita@welcomehomergv.com. •
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Welcome Home WINTER TEXAN • • • your official connection to the rio grande valley
Upcoming Musicals at PSJA ISD High Schools Cinderella, High School Musical Jr., and Seussical, Jr. Special to Welcome Home RGV
The Fine Arts Department at Pharr-
San Juan-Alamo ISD (PSJA ISD) is in its 37th Annual Children’s Shows season. “An hour before the show starts, there’s a line in the parking lot of people who want to see these shows with their families,” said Gilbert Zepeda, theatre director at PSJA North ECHS who has been with the program since its very first children’s show in 1979. “That’s very unusual for a Hispanic community, especially high school theatre.” Due to the community’s high interest in the shows each year, ticket prices are kept low at $5 to $7 so entire families can afford to attend the magical shows, despite their limited means. In addition to the locals, the plays have also become an attraction to Winter Texans. While theatre is often an extracurricular activity at many school districts, at PSJA ISD, Children’s Shows are part of Theater Production, a class now
offered during the evenings to allow students with conflicting class schedules to participate. Although Theater Production gives students the opportunity to unleash their creativity, students are required to pass all of their classes in order to participate. You still have the opportunity to see three of the PSJA ISD Children’s Shows: Rodger & Hammerstein’s Cinderella by PSJA Memorial ECHS (Nov.16 – Dec. 5)
High School Musical Jr. by PSJA High ECHS (Nov. 19 - Dec. 13) Seussical Jr. by PSJA North ECHS (Dec. 3 – 18) For a complete list of times and schedules, please visit psjaisd.us or the district’s Facebook page for updates. •
Help Project Insight and Lacks Furniture Feed the Hungry and Honor Our Soldiers Special to Welcome Home RGV
This
year, Project Insight and Lacks Furniture are gathering canned good donations to help the Food Bank of the Rio Grande Valley. Project Insight also will be decorating a tree at the Lacks on North 10th Street in McAllen. They are decorating the tree in honor of our soldiers--all those who served, those still serving, and our fallen soldiers. If you are able to donate canned goods, please go to Lacks at 2901 North 10th Street by December 11 and help Project Insight and Lacks feed the hungry. Please email Izzy Torres, president of Project Insight and founder of the organization’s weekly cancer support group, H.O.P.E., with the name of a solider you would like to honor. The soldiers’ names will be placed on the Tree of HOPE near the customer service counter in the store. •
• • • Is there a dish served at a restaurant in the RGV that you
Love That
Dish
can’t wait to have when you come back HOME to us? If there is, please send an email to us at news@welcomehomergv.com and tell us the name of the restaurant, the Valley city where it is located, the name of the dish, and why you love it so much. We can’t wait to hear why you LOVE THAT DISH!” •
www.welcomehomergv.com
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1st Responders Learn-Practice-Test on Lifesaving Procedures Special to Welcome Home RGV
Saturday,
November 21, a group of 1st Responders from across the RGV met for the first of many CPR/ AED classes scheduled this season. McAllen Medical Center provides these classes for our 1st Responders who, upon completion of the 4-5 hour class, will be certified by the American Heart Association in CPR and on the Automated External Defibrillator. 1st Responder students from Victoria Palms and Big Valley Park in Donna, Paradise Park in McAllen, and Casa Del Valle in Alamo attended this class. Education coordinator Donna Markwart and the South Texas Health System Education Department have CPR manikins and training AEDs for the students so they can learn, practice, and test for their adult, child, and baby CPR certification. The students also take a written test at the end of the class for the final step of the AHA certification. Several STHS nurses assist in teaching the students the new AmericanHeart-Association-approved CPR curriculum, with assistance from members of the McAllen Fire Department. Irv Torchinsky was also present for his CPR teaching
certification, which he renews biannually, enabling him to continue teaching CPR classes. Each of the 1st Responders learn how to save lives with the Heimlich maneuver and CPR rescue breathing and compressions necessary to sustain life in an emergency when someone is choking, not breathing, or does not have blood circulation via the heart. The students also learn how to attach an external automated defibrillator, which can return a patient’s heart to a normal sinus rhythm. All of these skills are essential for lifesaving procedures. Defibrillators are now commonly found in schools, shopping malls, factories, businesses, corporations, airports, airplanes, and tourist locations and in a majority of our
Winter Texan community resorts. For more information about 1st Responders or classes, please contact the Welcome Home RGV office or Rita Huether, our WHRGV coordinator via email at rita@welcomehomergv. com. We are grateful to STHS for
providing this lifesaving educational opportunity for all of the 1st Responder volunteers who dedicate their services to the residents within their respective resort communities across the RGV. •
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Welcome Home WINTER TEXAN • • • your official connection to the rio grande valley
www.welcomehomergv.com
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South Texas Health System Earns We Can Never Have Enough Purses
‘Top Performer on Key Quality Measures®’ Recognition from The Joint Commission Special to Welcome Home RGV
South
Texas Health System has been recognized as a 2014 Top Performer on Key Quality Measures® by The Joint Commission, the leading accreditor of health care organizations in the United States. South Texas Health System was recognized as part of The Joint Commission’s 2015 annual report “America’s Hospitals: Improving Quality and Safety,” for attaining and sustaining excellence in accountability measure performance for heart attack, heart failure, pneumonia, surgical care, stroke, and perinatal care. South Texas Health System is one of only 1,043 hospitals (out of more than 3,300 eligible hospitals) in the United States to achieve the 2014 Top Performer distinction. The Top Performer program recognizes hospitals for improving performance on evidence-based interventions that increase the chances of healthy outcomes for patients with certain conditions. The performance measures in the recognition program include heart attack, heart failure, pneumonia, surgical care, children’s asthma, inpatient psychiatric services, stroke, venous thromboembolism, perinatal care, immunization, tobacco treatment, and substance use. This is the fourth year in a row that South Texas Health System has been recognized as a Top Performer. South Texas Health System was recognized in 2011, 2012, and 2013 for its performance on accountability measure data for heart attack, heart failure, pneumonia, and surgical care (2011, 2012, 2013). This recognition from The Joint Commission comes just months after South Texas Health System received the prestigious “Best Regional Hospital” designation from U.S. News & World Report. To be a 2014 Top Performer, hospitals had to meet three performance criteria based on 2014 accountability measure data, including: • Achieve cumulative performance of 95 percent or above across all reported accountability measures; • Achieve performance of 95 percent or above on each and every reported accountability measure with at least 30 denominator cases; and • Have at least one core measure set that had a composite rate of 95
percent or above, and within that measure set, achieve a performance rate of 95 percent or above on all applicable individual accountability measures. • “Delivering the right treatment in the right way at the right time is a cornerstone of high-quality health care. I commend the efforts of South Texas Health System for their excellent performance on the use of evidence-based interventions,” said Mark R. Chassin, MD, FACP, MPP, MPH, president and CEO, The Joint Commission. “We understand what matters most to patients who choose our South Texas Health System hospitals is the quality and safety of the care they receive. That is why we have made it a top priority to improve positive patient outcomes through evidencebased care processes,” said Douglas Matney, Group Vice President, Universal Health Services, Inc. (UHS) Central Region. South Texas Health System is a subsidiary of UHS, one of the nation’s leading hospital management corporations. “South Texas Health System is proud to be named a Top Performer once again, and it recognizes the knowledge, teamwork, and dedication of our entire hospital staff.” For more information about the Top Performer program, visit www. jointcommission.org/accreditation/ top_performers.aspx. • South Texas Health System is recognized for its reputation for excellence in providing quality healthcare to the people of the Rio Grande Valley. As the largest hospital network in the Rio Grande Valley, South Texas Health System offers specialized services in behavioral health, cardiovascular care, Veterans’ healthcare, emergency medicine, neuroscience, asthma care, orthopedics, oncology, pediatric care, women’s service, and adult rehabilitation. South Texas Health System’s facilities include Edinburg Children’s Hospital, Edinburg Regional Medical Center, McAllen Medical Center, McAllen Heart Hospital, Cornerstone Regional Hospital, the STHS ER at Weslaco, the STHS ER at Mission, and South Texas Behavioral Health Center.
Special to Welcome Home RGV
Don’t
miss the Brownsville Literacy Center’s 7th Annual Purse Sale & Fashion Show December 5 from 6:00-9:00 p.m. at 1150 Market Square in Brownsville. Tickets to the event are $20.00. Support the Brownsville Literacy Center while feeding your passion for purses. For more information, please call 956-542-8080. •
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Welcome Home WINTER TEXAN • • • your official connection to the rio grande valley
MAKING CONNECTIONS
Non-Profit Spotlight: Comfort House Services, Inc. Special to Welcome Home RGV
Nonprofit Name: Comfort House Services, Inc Address: 617 Dallas Avenue, McAllen Email: comforthouse617@yahoo.com Phone Number: 956-687-7367 Facebook: www.facebook.com/ comforthouseservicesinc Contact Person’s Name: Lyana Benavidez How and when did your organization begin and who does it serve? Comfort House has proudly been serving our Valley community by assisting the terminally ill and their families during their final days of life. The original Comfort House, which opened in 1989, is the “Front House,” which is now used as our main office. The first part of the resident house was built in 1994, the second in 1997. We are licensed as a 501 (C)(3) nonprofit, Special Care Facility for the terminally ill. Comfort House is a community-wide ministry of compassion to the dying whose mission is to provide a peaceful, homelike environment where a person may die in peace, with dignity, surrounded by loved ones. We work closely with over 20 hospice agencies across the Valley. Our staff of committed, loving caregivers and volunteers assist residents and give hospitality to families. Community volunteers give thousands of hours of service each year and enable us to operate with a smaller paid staff. Where is your organization located and what are the hours of operation?
Comfort House is located at 617 Dallas Avenue, McAllen, Texas 78501. Monday through Friday, our front office is open from 8:15 a.m. 4:15 p.m. The office is closed on weekends. Visiting hours are from 8:00 a.m.-8:00 p.m. every day of the week. What kind of donations does your nonprofit organization need? Comfort House has a ‘Wish List’ we share monthly with our community. Our wish list includes household items, such as laundry detergent, bleach, hand sanitizer, white vinegar, and paper towels. And some food items that may also be donated are ground beef, chicken, fruit, frozen vegetables, cake and brownie mixes, and pastas. Monetary donations and gift cards from HEB, Wal-Mart, Home Depot, or Lowe’s are also welcomed. We share our Wish List on our Facebook page, in The Monitor, and with schools, churches, and other local businesses. Your continued support helps maintain our mission of love and compassion by providing staple items used for patient care and
direct upkeep of our home. Please call our office and speak with our administrative staff to discuss how you may contribute. We are sharing a copy of our Wish List with Welcome Home Winter Texan readers in this issue. What kind of volunteer opportunities do you have for Winter Texans, Valley retirees, and others in our community? We value our volunteers, as we believe they are the heart of Comfort House. Without our loving volunteers, we could not carry out our ministry of love and compassion to the terminally ill in our community. At Comfort House, we realize that each and every one of us has different God-given talents. We would like you to use those talents here at Comfort House. If you have special skills in construction, carpentry, landscaping, cooking, plumbing, or clerical work, or if you would like to
help with fundraisers, please contact our volunteer coordinator, Lyana Benavidez. Do you have any upcoming events you would like Welcome Home RGV readers to know about? Come out and join us February 20, 2016 for our 16th Annual WALKATHON 5k Walk-Run Event. This fundraiser is dedicated to our residents who have passed away during the past year. However, we welcome everyone to walk for fun and also to help Comfort House with our ongoing ministry of love and compassion for the terminally ill and their families. To participate, registration and pledge envelopes will be available at Comfort House. Day of the Event: Registration: 8:30-9:00 a.m. Warm up: 9:00 - 9:30 a.m. Walk starts at 9:30 a.m. •
Our Passion is Pets: What is Flea Allergic Dermatitis? Special to Welcome Home RGV
Flea
allergic dermatitis is the leading cause of itching in dogs but also affects cats. Fleas are a very common pest seen in the Valley due to our mild climate. The body amounts an immune response to the saliva of the flea, and a single flea bite can cause itching for days. Thus, pets do not have to be infested to have flea allergic dermatitis. Not all dogs and cats are affected by flea bites, but certain breeds do seem to be more predisposed than others. Typical diagnosis comes from a history of itchiness from the middle of the back to the base of the tail and rear legs and physical exam findings. Intradermal allergy testing
(skin tests) and specific blood allergy testing can be used to confirm a diagnosis of flea allergic dermatitis; however, a positive response to flea treatment is what most veterinarians use to confirm the diagnosis. Treatment consists of flea control (both on the dog and in the environment), medications to alleviate itching (steroids and antihistamines), and treating secondary skin infections (typically bacterial). Some have used allergy injections to help desensitize the dog to the flea bite, but it is not considered especially effective. There are several new flea preventatives on the market today to assist in flea control. •
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Zoo Nights and Lights at Gladys Porter Zoo Dec. 4-6
Special to Welcome Home RGV
Gladys Porter Zoo will be hosting
Save the Date for the Christmas Market at Trenton View Special to Welcome Home RGV
Do your holiday shopping with over
50 local vendors at the Christmas Market at Trenton View Saturday, December 12, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Trenton View is located at 7001 N. 10th St., just south of Trenton. You’ll find Buttons & Bows, the Memorial High School FFA selling handmade items, bracelets made by Ruby de la Garza, original Mexican clothing brought to you by Aurora
Garcia, Prayers for Paraguay items, hand-painted furniture, and much, much more. A portion of the proceeds will benefit the RGV Community Closet and the Little Free Library. Santa letters will be donated to Macy’s to benefit the Make*A*Wish foundation. You won’t need Dasher and Dancer for this market--just drive on over to Trenton View. •
its annual holiday celebration, Zoo Nights and Lights, December 4-6 from 6:00-9:00 p.m. each night. This family-friendly event offers holiday spirit and fun for guests of all ages, as well as a romantic setting for “Date Night.” Enjoy live performances by local bands and choirs while taking in the dazzling light displays and enjoying some hot chocolate and churros. This event is sure to be fun for the entire family. Children will enjoy fun activities, such as having their picture taken with Santa Claus, decorating their own gingerbread cookie, and creating a unique holiday craft at the education department’s booth. Everyone is invited to shop at the arts and crafts show in the special events building for holiday goodies, which make great gifts for family and friends. Tickets for Zoo Nights and Lights are now on sale. The price is $2.50 per ticket or the donation of a new, unwrapped toy for the Toys for Tots Foundation. Zoo members receive free admission to this event but are
Mr. Izzy Torres, cancer survivor, joining in on a H.O.P.E. activity
still encouraged to donate a toy. Gladys Porter Zoo is located at 500 Ringgold Street in Brownsville. For more information please visit www.gpz.org or call (956) 547-7187. •
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Welcome Home WINTER TEXAN • • • your official connection to the rio grande valley
Tee Time in the RGV:
An Introduction to Valley Golf Courses Howling Trails Golf Course On Hole-in-One Drive in Mission Special to Welcome Home RGV
Howling
Trails Golf Course, formerly known as Martin Valley Ranch, was established in 1984. It was built and designed by local personnel and is located in Leisure Valley Ranch RV Park in Mission. In the spring of 2014, the course was purchased by the La Joya School District. The district’s intention was to give the community kids something to do with their spare time. They are planning to build a planetarium, waterpark, and tennis courts, as well as other facilities in this area so the community will have a wide range of recreational choices. At the present time, they are performing a number of renovations on the course, including improving irrigation of both the Bermuda greens and fairways. The layout is 27 holes with three sets of tees. Two sets of tees are rated for men and one for women. The ratings for men on holes 1-18 are 71.4/112 at 6175 yards and 67.9/108 at 5597 yards, on holes 10-27 are 72.2/114 at 6631 yards and 69.4/110 at 6088 yards, and on holes 19-9 are 71.4/112 at 6462 yards and 68.2/106 at 5911 yards. The rating for women on holes 1-18 is 69.3/110 at 4881 yards, on holes 10-27 is 71.1/111 at 5394 yards, and on holes 19-9 is 70.4/111 at 5233 yards.
1910 Hole in One Dr. Mission, TX 78572
956-585-6330 This course is open to the public with affordable green fees. The course is located in Mission at 1910 Hole in One Drive. You may call for tee times and additional information at 956-585-6330. •
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.
Isaiah’s Christmas Story to Come Alive at Bibleville Special to Welcome Home RGV
In
a ministry partnership with Bibleville, Bible Alive Theater will present their very first full-cast Bible musical in the Rio Grande Valley Saturday, December 12, at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. at the Bibleville auditorium, 1346 N. Cesar Chavez Rd. in Alamo. Many of the cast and crew are from Bibleville. Others, including our younger actors, are from here in the Valley. This is a crossdenominational effort, with adults and youth from many different
churches and denominations. This original musical, Isaiah’s Christmas Story, was written by President and Co-Founder Myra Green, who started the first Bible Alive Theater in Santa Fe, New Mexico in 2008, now in their 7th season. The play tells the traditional Christmas story from the viewpoint of the prophet Isaiah, who had much to say about the birth of Jesus, hundreds of years before it occurred. It has many of our favorite Christmas carols in it, too! The website is BibleAliveTheater.com. •
www.welcomehomergv.com
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The Lamb’s Loom: Season of Thankfulness (Part 1) Special to Welcome Home RGV
Thanksgiving is a time to reflect,
to look back on the people and experiences that have been a part of your journey and then, to GIVE THANKS!!! We at The Lamb’s Loom have soooo very much to be thankful for, so we would like to share some of that with you. The Lamb’s Loom beginnings started around 10 years ago over a few cups of coffee with a bunch of KnitWits just dreaming of the possibilities. See, the KnitWits (short for Knitting a Witness for Christ) are a bunch of friends who meet weekly to knit, loom knit, and crochet items to send with missionaries to help them in their work. Over the last 10 years, there have been thousands of beautiful, handmade gifts sent around the world….way more than we ever dreamed! This all started by helping out a friend whose church was sending a medical mission team to Kenya. We all got started looming hats and prayer shawls and then sent them off full of love and prayers. Since then, we have also been invited to teach others in their homes, at schools, and in workshops and have enjoyed all the opportunities to teach and share what God has been doing through just a little bit of yarn.
Pictured from L to R: Mary Garza, Caroline Moore, Terri Zavaleta, Noemi Penalez, Ann Gamblin, Barbara Trussell, Michelle Garza, Norma Rosa, and Jeanie Rowell
Over the years, we have met in coffee shops (Thanks to all those places that gave up space for a bunch of KnitWits!) and sometimes in each other’s homes. We often talked about one day having a place of our very own, a place where we could expand who we serve, teach more people, and encourage them to reach beyond themselves to help others. Last year that dream became a reality when our friend Jacque moved her flower shop and had just enough space for a few KnitWits, and we found ourselves standing in The
Lamb’s Loom, an “official” home of our own! After 10 years of bags of yarn, hats, and shawls stuffed in closets and in the back of our cars, it was amazing to see that coffee cup dream become real. The funny thing is, we are already bursting at the seams! Thanks to everyone’s help, encouragement, and donations AND new people joining in…you guessed it, the backs of our cars are still full!!! (A “problem” we are so very thankful for!) All of that means another answer to our dream. We are able to expand
who we serve and how! Our concept is simple: We have the yarn and gift shop to help raise funds, people bring in donations of handmade items that we disperse, and, as a 501 (c)(3), we are able to accept financial help, too! Our current ongoing projects are for: ~ Charity Rescue Mission working in Durango, Mexico ~ Like Elijah Ministries working at the “Dump Church” in Reynosa, Mexico ~ Women Connect in China, a women’s ministry in Beijing, China We will share more on them next week! There have been many other projects over the years, too, and if we KnitWits have learned anything, it is that we are blessed to have fun together, to make new friends, to play with yarn, and to fill that donation chest. God is in charge of distribution! Our heartfelt thanks to everyone who continues to help in this incredible journey!!! Happy Thanksgiving, every day, all year! `Everyone is welcome to join in! The Lamb’s Loom is located at 1209 Pecan in McAllen, just inside JacLin’s Florist. We are a 501(c)(3). You can also find us on Facebook or give us a call at 956-607-6855. •
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Welcome Home WINTER TEXAN • • • your official connection to the rio grande valley
Meet You Soon: I Think I Died and Went to Heaven with
Paul Chilton
H
ave you ever heard of a minister who talks of heaven but also bakes heavenly pies? Well I have! The proprietor of PJ Pies and Bakery Cafe is just such a guy. PJ Pies, open since last May, has the most divine pies a mouth ever tasted. I was privileged to eat there the other day, and there is everything
from savory entree pot pies to marvelous dessert pies--and a lot of other wonderful things to enjoy! My companion and I split a Cheesy Pig savory pie. It was filled with pork chop, broccoli, and cheese in a creamy sauce. It was warm and filling and just the right size for a tasty lunch. The crust was flaky and melted in my mouth. We accompanied the pie with a tangy Fall Salad, consisting of kale, harvest squash, nuts, cranberries, and parmesan cheese in a balsamic dressing. It proved to be the perfect choice. These are just a few of the pies and salads available. For dessert, we selected the Bourbon Chocolate Pecan pie. It was
Celebrate the Holidays in Downtown Harlingen
Special “Jackson Street Christmas Stroll” set for December 8
Special to Welcome Home RGV
Several
Downtown Harlingen merchants have organized a special evening for holiday shopping Tuesday, December 8, from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. Many businesses along Jackson Street, between 3rd and Commerce, will be open extended hours that evening only, with in-store specials, refreshments, music, and more. The Jackson Street Christmas Stroll in Downtown Harlingen is free and open to the public. For more information, call 956-425-5282. •
out of this world! The dessert pies are so sweet you can almost feel the love baked in them. They serve great sandwiches in unique combinations. They also offer a soup du jour. It will be hard to decide what entree and dessert to order, but the names alone will tempt you. Chicken Pesto, The Gobbler, Shepherds Pie, Chicken Chipotle, and The Veggie. Salads also come in many varieties. The pies and salads change with the seasons, so nothing is boring in this choir of choices. For your drinking pleasure, there is an assortment of coffees and of teas, both hot and cold. This restaurant is so different, I will return often. It is an exciting concept, served up in a cozy, casual atmosphere. Breakfast is available only on Saturdays, from 8:30 a.m. to noon. Whole pies are available for home enjoyment with 24-hour’s notice. PJ Pies and Bakery Café is located at 5500 N. McColl Road in McAllen. Their phone number is 956-627-0180. Well, I guessed I have PREACHED enough about the virtues of good dining.
If you want a truly inspiring dining experience, I’ll meet you soon at PJ Pies. You will be glad you did! • 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.
Downtown Harlingen Announces Holiday Word Game Public Invited to Participate
Special to Welcome Home RGV
Downtown
Harlingen announces a Holiday Word Game, which is free and open to the public, with an entry deadline of January 3, 2016. Winners will be announced January 7, 2016. Prizes are gift certificates to Downtown Harlingen businesses. In order to play, individuals should visit Downtown Harlingen between November 27, 2015 and January 3, 2016. A total of 50 Downtown businesses will be displaying Holiday Word Game posters in their windows. Entrants should collect the letters displayed on the Holiday Word Game posters and record them on a Holiday Word Game entry form. Entrants must
correctly solve the word puzzle on the entry form in order to be entered into a drawing for prizes. No purchase is necessary, but only one entry per person is allowed. Game rules and entry forms are available at the 50 participating Downtown Harlingen businesses, at the Harlingen Downtown office located at 209 W. Jackson, and on the Downtown Harlingen web site (www.downtownharlingen.com--click on “Events” for Holiday Word Game information). For more information, contact the Downtown Harlingen office at 956216-4910 or visit the web site. •
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Welcome Home WINTER TEXAN • • • your official connection to the rio grande valley
From the Inside, Out
Fun with
Leslie Blasing at Victoria Palms Resort
by Marge Flados
T
here is a verity in my life that is up there along with sunrise in the east and getting gas from eating cabbage: If a brand of merchandise is exactly right for me, it will, in a very short time, disappear from the American marketplace forever. An absolute law of the realm. Tweedie shoes, a product of a small independent shoe company in St. Louis, made a shoe with a high arch (which I have), a narrow heel (which I have), and a padded sole (which I appreciated). I knew I would wear Tweedies forever, but it was not to be. When they disappeared from the department stores, I was told the Tweedie Shoe Company had been bought out by one of the large shoe conglomerates, of which there were only six in the nation. Shoes may have other brand names but are basically owned by the big six. Whoever bought Tweedie Company threw the last ones away, for I have never found anything comparable in comfort, style, or wear-ability. I found undergarments that fit my body so perfectly I was not aware of their presence under my clothes. It was the only brand I ever bought (can’t remember the name). One day as I shopped for replacements, I was told, “Oh that company is no longer in business, but we can show you something similar.” Horrors! Finding comfortable underclothes is no small challenge. I am still looking. Back in the 40s, there was a fingernail polish called Chen Yu. When two coats were applied to my nails, it stayed on a very long time and rarely chipped. In fact I usually repainted my nails because they had
Special to Welcome Home RGV
Marge Flados
obviously grown out from the nail beds since the last application. I haven’t met anyone in the last 40 years who even remembers Chen Yu nail polish. I found a perfume I loved called Badgley Mischka. It smelled expensive because it was. I like to smell expensive, even if I’m not, and I received it as a gift because people knew I liked it. I had a supply to last several years, but when replenishment became necessary, I was informed it was no longer on the market. The product was kaput. It was probably because people were turned off by the silly name. Why didn’t they call me? Badgley Mischka, indeed. No one could pronounce it, plus it is like wearing a perfume called Perestroika Minsk. Just too something or other…. your call. The list is long and sad. If I find jeans that fit my derriere, they are gone!! If I find a pot scrubber that cleans, doesn’t scratch my pots, rust or shed, it is off the shelf within a few months. My favorite cracker also vanished from the grocer’s shelf. This phenomenon extends through the list of any product I may buy for house, home, or car. If I like it, it will disappear from the marketplace. Forever! • M. Flados is a resident of Harlingen and can be reached at nflados@rgv.rr.com
Leslie
Blasing performed to over 240 people at Victoria Palms Resort in Donna recently. Leslie says ‘they were a great energetic, dancing crowd! There were there with a purpose and it was to have FUN!!” •
Winter Texan Orchestra Season Begins Special to Welcome Home RGV
If
you play a musical instrument found in a symphony orchestra, you are invited to consider the Winter Texan Orchestra. We rehearse on Wednesday mornings from 9-11 a.m. Tip O’ Texas RV Resort in Pharr on Sioux Road East of 281. Percussion
and strings are especially needed, but all are welcome. We especially welcome local musicians to join us for the season. For information, call Bob Seymour, conductor, at 317-626-6512 or 956607-2696 or come to a rehearsal. •
www.welcomehomergv.com RGV ADVENTURE CONTINUED FROM PAGE 4
there was no one there and everything was different. There were more trees, more grass and roads made of hard gray rock. Monsters were everywhere, houses of stone, flashing lights. I don’t know what happened.” Soljo slumped against a wall. “I wish to go home.” George’s check-up proved Soljo was in good condition, not harmed, at least physically. He and Sadie decided to bring in a few more of their friends, a retired history teacher, Jack, a local tour director for the thousands of Winter Texans who came to the Rio Grande Valley, Phyllis, and Frank, who had a monster truck and was always ready to try something new. The five discussed their next move as Soljo took a nap in one of George’s comfy recliners, a fuzzy blanket thrown over his semi-nude body. “First, we need to feed him, get him something to wear and then find this tree of his,” Phyllis mapped out the strategy. “Maybe the Mission Historical Museum might have a clue,” George piped in. Before long, the five, plus a newly clothed and scratching wildly Soljo, climbed into Jack’s behemoth truck and followed his GPS to the museum. Soljo’s eyes grew wider and wider as they drove along. Pointing in every direction, all he could manage to get out before the next wonder overtook him was, “What?” “What?” “What?”
“Even if we find this magic tree, what are we going to do with Soljo? It’s obvious he’s not from around here and if anyone finds out, they are sure not going to let him go. AND, they’ll want to test the tree to see if it does as he says. We don’t want anyone from here going back to there, wherever that may be.” Surprised at the calmness in his voice as he made these outrageous statements, the others stopped at the foot of the Mission Historical Museum steps. Soljo bumped into them at their sudden halt. If they explained what they wanted people would think them crazy or worse throw them out. Should anyone listen to them, they might convey the information to some unsavory characters who would take advantage of Soljo, and he would never get home. The five had been friends for many years, seeing each other through tragedy and good times. But this could rock their very existence. Would they do the next right thing--help Soljo return home wherever that may be or let the lions of this time eat him up? Staring at each other, their faces expressionless, they opened the door to the museum. • Roda Grubb, writer/reporter/storyteller/author, recently published her latest book, Everelle’s Quest, an Isle of Foote novel, and also writes locally for the McAllen Chamber and MISD. www.rodathewriter.com
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McAllen High School Theatre Presents Urinetown Special to Welcome Home RGV
In
a Gotham-like city, a terrible water shortage caused by a 20-year drought, has led to a governmentenforced ban on private toilets. The citizens must use public amenities, regulated by a single malevolent company that profits by charging admission for one of humanity’s most basic needs. Amid the people, a hero decides he’s had enough and plans a
revolution to lead them all to freedom. McAllen High Theatre will present the Tony-Award-winning show Urinetown December 3-4 and December 10-11. All shows will begin at 7:30 p.m. at the McAllen High auditorium (2021 La Vista Ave.). Tickets for general admission are $8 and student tickets are $5. For more information, call 632-3172. •
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Welcome Home WINTER TEXAN • • • your official connection to the rio grande valley
The Laguna Madre Art League The Last Battle of the Civil War Advises: SAVE THESE DATES! Playing at Tip O’ Texas December 10 Special to Welcome Home RGV
Special to Welcome Home RGV
The
December
5 and 6, from 10:00 a.m.to 4:00 p.m, the Laguna Madre Art League will be holding its Annual Christmas Show and Sale of fine art and crafts made by local artists and craftsmen. It will be held at the Port Isabel Community Center, located at 213 Yturria St. (behind the library). If you are looking for that perfect gift for a friend, family member, or yourself, you’ll find it here. Awardwinning artists Carol Thorson, Marne Law, Thomas Leeman, Peggy Paris, and Carol Plumb will be selling original paintings, prints, and cards. You’ll find all types of media, from oil to watercolor, reasonably priced and all sizes, sure to fit into those empty spaces on your walls. In addition to paintings, Fern Kubalsky will have cork art to sell, Audrey Spiess will have rocks, as well as paintings and cards, Jenny Lundak will be selling pottery, as well as paintings, and Kathy Damalas will sell agate art and cork art, as well as acrylics. Wood art and wood turnings will be in Lucy and Jerry Dennison’s booth. Diana
Franklin will sell her popular Blessing Crosses made from items found on the beach, and Sally Heath will have fused glass pendants for sale. Decorating your Christmas tree will be a breeze, too, when you purchase original, hand-painted and handcrafted Christmas ornaments that the League will have for sale. Proceeds from the ornament sales will benefit the League’s scholarship and art education fund. Join Laguna Madre Art League members for this festive event. Enjoy free holiday refreshments as you browse and shop. For more information, contact Diana Franklin at dfranklin1@rgv.rr.com. •
Pharr Community Theater Company proudly presents a special Winter Texan performance of their original historical story, musical drama play, The Last Battle of the Civil War, at Tip O’ Texas RV Resort (101 East Sioux Rd., Pharr), Thursday, December 10, at 7:00 p.m. Admission is $5.00, with open seating. Doors open at 6:00 p.m. Tickets are available at the Tip O’ Texas activity office (956-7876461) or at the door the night of the play. Tickets may also be purchased through Bob Watson at Pharr South (612-812-6430). The play is a two-act, historical musical drama by Jefferson Williams, directed by Pedro Garcia and Gabriela Pedraza, in a background setting of the last battle of the Civil War, fought just east of Brownsville near the Rio Grande River and Palmito Ranch. The play tells the story of a Union soldier from the 34th Indiana
Veteran Volunteer Infantry who, after marching in Deep South Texas with his fellow soldiers, is captured and taken prisoner by Confederate forces in spite of rumors the war had ended. Beaten down by war, fatigue, a hottempered Confederate guard, and the hot Texas sun, the Union soldier’s only desire is to be free and to return home to his family, but his fate is to be determined by his Confederate captors. •
Upcoming Gardening Workshops Special to Welcome Home RGV
Saturday, December 5, from 10:00
a.m. until noon, Master Gardeners will provide three programs at their South Texas Educational Garden located in the North San Juan Park, just behind the Hidalgo Multipurpose Center at 509 East Nolana Loop in North San Juan. The schedule includes a program on herbs, provided by Janet Schofied, who will give information on the uses of herbs, especially some of the traditional medicinal uses. Schofied maintains the Herb Garden at the Master Gardener educational garden and uses herbs regularly. Esmeralda Guerra will provide a presentation on how to set up a compost bin. She will demonstrate a variety of compost bins and discuss the advantages and disadvantages of each type. Guerra will discuss the uses of compost and its benefits in the garden. The third program will be given by Master Gardener Max Ganzer. He will demonstrate how to make a rain barrel. Harvesting rain for use in the garden is a great way to save water, but it is also a way to provide water that has a neutral pH to our soils. This helps to flush out the salts in the soils and to move salt away from the root zone of our plants. For those who would like to purchase a rain barrel to use in
their gardens, the Master Gardeners will have them available, complete with faucet for connecting a garden hose to the rain barrel, for a cost of $50.00. These workshops are being held in the 1.5 acre educational garden that is maintained by the Master Gardeners. Tours will be available after the presentations. The garden includes a butterfly garden, vegetable garden, fruit tree garden, native and well-adapted plant garden, and several demonstration areas. These educational programs are free and open to anyone who would like to learn more about gardening. The Master Gardeners are trained volunteers for the Texas A & M AgriLife Extension Service. For more information about the program, contact Ashley Gregory, Extension horticulturist, at the Extension office at 956-383-1026. For information on volunteering in the garden, contact Sylvia Casselman at 281-614-9632. •
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Welcome Home WINTER TEXAN • • • your official connection to the rio grande valley
American Saturday Night Live From The Grand Ole Opry Concert Movie Teaming Up with Charitable Partner Country Cares for St. Jude Kids® Special to Welcome Home RGV
Independent
distributor DigiNext Films today announced that Country Cares for St. Jude Kids®’ has been named official charitable partner for the first-ever Grand Ole Opry feature film. DigiNext is donating a portion of every movie theatre ticket sold for American Saturday Night: Live From The Grand Ole Opry to benefit Country Cares for St. Jude Kids®, one of the most successful radio fundraising programs of all time. The movie will show in select theatres across America beginning December 4. You can see the film in the Rio Grande Valley at Carmike 20 in Edinburg. The film offers audiences a virtual front row seat and VIP all-access pass, including live Opry performances and backstage conversations with Opry members Brad Paisley, Blake Shelton, and Darius Rucker, as well as The Band Perry and Brett Eldredge. The movie’s official trailer was recently released at www.oprymovie. com. • Advance tickets are available via partners MovieTickets.com and Fandango.
• A limited special engagement at select theatre locations begins December 4. Additional North American dates and theatres will be added in early 2016. “We are delighted to partner with the Grand Ole Opry to bring cinemagoers and country music fans their first immersive, big-screen taste of the rich, 90-year tradition of ‘the show that made country music famous,’” said Bud Mayo, managing member of DigiNext and president of Carmike’s Alternative Programming and Distribution Division. “We are also proud to lend additional support to Country Cares for St. Jude Kids as our official charitable beneficiary, which has long been a favored charity of the cinema industry. The artists and
the Opry already have a longstanding relationship with Country Cares for St. Jude.” Since 1989, Country Cares for St. Jude Kids® has raised $550 million for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital®, in partnership with approximately 200 radio stations and listeners who have generously pledged their support during radiothons. St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital is leading the way the world understands,
treats, and defeats childhood cancer and other life-threatening diseases. Thanks to generous donors, families never receive a bill from St. Jude for treatment, travel, housing, or food because all a family should worry about is helping their child live. Connect on social media with Opry and DigiNextEvents on Facebook or @ opry and @DigiNextEvents on Twitter via #OPRYMOVIE. •
www.welcomehomergv.com
Calvary Baptist Presents Under the Starry Sky Special to Welcome Home RGV
Calvary Baptist Church presents yet
another of its spectacular events. For two performances only, Calvary Choir and Orchestra will be presenting their Christmas dramatic musical, Under the Starry Sky. This modern retelling of the Christmas story begins with a girl named Melody. Faced with challenges and crisis in her own life, the story follows Melody as she encounters the true meaning of Christmas. Calvary Baptist Church has often presented concerts and other events to the delight of the public. This presentation of the Christmas story brings together the world of music ministry and musical theater—creating
a breath of fresh air. Through the combined efforts of the drama team and dance group, Calvary’s 40-voice choir and orchestra, and their director Chuck Olson, this special Christmas event will enthrall all ages! There will be two performances— Friday, December 11 at 7:00 p.m. and Sunday, December 13 at 4:30 p.m. Be delighted with Christmas favorites and some new arrangements. You are invited to an evening you won’t soon forget! The event will be held at Calvary Baptist Church, 1600 Harvey Drive in McAllen. For more information, contact Calvary Baptist Church at 956-686-4364 or visit www.calvarymcallen.org. •
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Welcome Home WINTER TEXAN • • • your official connection to the rio grande valley
Enjoy Savings. Maximize Life.
COUPON
CONNECTION
Looking for ways to SAVE right here in the Rio Grande Valley? Our weekly coupon section will help you SAVE while you’re here, enjoying life in the Valley. •
SEE YOUR COUPON HERE!
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• • • RECIPECONNECTION with Executive Chef Bettina Tolin • • • • • • • •
Crostino
with Fresh Thyme Roasted Tomatoes 4 Roma tomatoes, halved lengthwise
Preheat the oven to 275 degrees.
Extra-virgin olive oil, for drizzling
Roughly chop the fresh thyme leaves. Place a cooling rack on a sheet pan. Place the tomatoes cut-side up on the rack. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt, pepper and the fresh thyme. Roast approximately 1 hour 30 minutes, or until the tomatoes are very soft and slightly shrunken. Set aside.
Kosher or sea salt and freshly ground pepper 4-6 fresh thyme sprigs, leaves removed 8 slices baguette, cut 1/2 inch-thick on the bias 1 clove garlic ¼ C freshly grated Parmesan cheese 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.
Increase the oven temperature to 400 degrees. Place the baguette slices on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil
and bake until lightly golden brown, about 10 minutes (watch carefully so as not to overcook). Rub the crostino with garlic clove and top each with a roasted tomato. Garnish with a little of the grated Parmesan cheese. Note: the tomatoes can be roasted ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, warm them for a few minutes in the oven with the baguette slices.
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