Welcome Home Winter Texan : Vol 2 Issue 4 : November 9, 2016

FORE! GOLFING IN THE RGV!

This week features the Cottonwood Country Club & Golf Course!

UPCOMING EVENTS!

RECIPE CONNECTION!

Check out this week’s listings of what’s happening in the RGV!

Executive Chef Bettina Tolin shares a delicious coffee cake baking recipe!

Welcome Home See details on page 6.

See calendar on page 18.

Try her recipe on page 23.

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WINTER TEXAN

VOLUME 2 • ISSUE 4 • November 9, 2016

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

Monarch Butterfly

T

here’s nothing like a surprise visit from your daughter (who is off at college)! Imagine my surprise when the doorbell rang Friday and my one-and-only daughter was at our front door! The Valley is a magical place, and I remember when I went off to college, I wanted to get as far away from the Valley as I could. Denton, Texas, was as far as I got, and the second I got there, I started counting the days until I could get home for Thanksgiving. I was homesick--for my family and friends and for the place I thought I wanted to never come back to. Now I can’t imagine being anywhere else. I love it in the Rio Grande Valley, and I hope you feel a sense of longing for South Texas when you’re not with us. I also hope you are just as excited as a teenager coming home from college for the first time when you’re on the long drive south. We have a lot of things in store for you this season...and we can’t wait to share them all with you! • We’re just connecting the dots,

Kristi

City of McAllen Mayors Monarch Pledge for a Champion City

Monarch Butterflies’ Migration Tracked Through Generations by Christopher Munoz, Quinta Mazatlan

The

Lower Rio Grande Valley (L.R.G.V.) is fortunate to sit along the migratory pathway of one of the most emblematic butterflies of the Americas— the Monarch Butterfly. Not only is the Valley a waypoint of this migratory species in transit to the mountains of Mexico, but it geographically represents the convergence of distinct routes stemming from a multitude of locations throughout North America. With continuing urbanization, these butterflies are increasingly losing habitat, making the completion of their journey a less plausible endeavor. This means that Monarch butterfly conservation is largely contingent upon the kind of vegetation people are growing within developed areas. Passing monarchs require flower nectar from various species of native, L.R.G.V. plants. Since monarchs employ four generations to complete this 3,000-mile migration, the availability of native milkweed plants along the way is imperative. Native milkweeds often grow unrecognized, even in many home

Climbing Milkweed Pods

Climbing Milkweed Flowers

gardens. Of our native milkweeds, the climbing milkweed (Funastrum cynanchoides) is one of the more well-distributed milkweeds throughout the Valley and can frequently be seen growing in gardens and along fencerows despite not having been planted by property owners. Because this plant is not readily recognized by the general public, it is routinely removed from our Valley gardens as a miscellaneous weed. The American essayist Waldo Emerson once referred to a weed as “a plant whose virtues have not yet been discovered.” As the issue of monarch conservation becomes more apparent to the public, people are discovering the ecological virtues of

Zizotes or Prairie Milkweed native to the LRGV

such plants. The City of McAllen has become the second city in the United States to pledge to the National Wildlife Federation’s 24 action items, a community-wide commitment to increase and establish Monarch habitat within the city. Citizens MONARCH MIGRATION CONTINUED ON PAGE 16 >>

A SPECIAL THANK YOU TO OUR 2016-2017 SEASON SPONSORS

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November 9, 2016 • • • Welcome

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Bring On the Hummingbirds

Wild Olive by Anita Westervelt

by Anita Westervelt, Rio Grande Valley Chapter, Texas Master Naturalist

I

Mexican Caesalpinia by Anita Westervelt

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WINTER TEXAN

your official connection to the rio grande valley

Publisher

Kristi Collier

kristi@welcomehomergv.com

Sales & Marketing Cheryl Palacios

cheryl@welcomehomergv.com

Administration

f you’ve just arrived or recently returned, you’re in time for tree planting in the Valley. November through February’s cooler months allow trees a dormant period when roots can grow without heat and drought stress. If you want hummingbirds, there’s a tree for that--several native trees and shrubs, as a matter of fact. The Buff-bellied Hummingbird is our only year-round resident hummer. One of the larger hummingbird species, it’s identified by its red bill and green throat. Two other hummingbird species, ruby-throated and black-chinned, are recurring visitors during their migration periods. Hummingbirds perch nearly 80 percent of the time. Their diet consists mostly of nectar, although 10 percent is protein from insects and spiders. As with other wildlife, our buff-bellied population is declining because of natural habitat loss. You can help, one tree at a time. Good hummingbird habitat offers nectar, native bugs, branches for perching,

and dense foliage for protection and nests. Let the flower shape guide you when selecting hummingbird-attracting species. Tubular and trumpet-shaped blooms are the ticket. If you’ve room, offer a variety of plants: Wild olive, Cordia boissieri, produces small clusters of large, funnel-shaped white blossoms with yellow centers. It blooms all year here. The tree can be left to grow bush-like or lower branches may be pruned for a more single-trunk, tree-like shape. Either way, hummingbirds will find it. Mexican caesalpinia, Caesalpinia mexicana, forms large clusters of deep yellow blooms most of the year. It can become quite bushy or, pruned, look like a small tree. The unusual coral bean, Erythrina herbacea, pushes out deep pink tubular blooms in spring. All plant parts are poisonous to humans, but hummingbirds flock to its nectar. Yellow sophora, Sophora tomentosa, is an airy, wispy-looking large shrub. It’s a prolific bloomer with soft, pastel

Yellow Sophora by Anita Westervelt

yellow blooms, spring through fall. Turk’s Cap, Malvaviscus drummondii, loves a bit of shade and can grow into a large shrub with intricate red blooms most of the year. These species are a few of our native plants that attract hummingbirds, butterflies, and other beneficial native pollinators. Check out www. rgvctmn.org for a list of local native plant growers. •

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

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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! •

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Sassy Stitchers Making Sock Dolls for Children in La Feria Special to Welcome Home RGV

S

assy Stitchers, year-round residents and Winter Texans at VIP La Feria RV Park East, are a group of ladies who have created one-of-a-kind sock dolls, which will be donated to the La Feria police and fire departments. These ladies are volunteer service oriented, who found a way to help children who have experienced a traumatic event or illness. They began this project in

September 2016 and already have completed over 30 dolls. All of the dolls and their outfits are designed by these ladies, and they are accepting supplies such as fabric, fiberfill, trim, and other materials so they can make even more dolls. If you would like to make a donation, please contact VIP La Feria RV Park East at 956-797-1401. •

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A Wedding Quilt

www.welcomehomergv.com • • • November 9, 2016

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by Barb Bergquist

We were beyond thrilled when we

opened the envelope from France. We knew we would be receiving mail from Isabelle but didn’t know what she was sending us. It was an invitation to her wedding! Isabelle has been special to us from the moment she stepped off the plane that summer. Though she was only with us for a month, it was a very special month in our lives. She was part of our family, and we have loved her as one of our children since that day. Now to be invited to share this special day with her showed us that she still felt the same. A trip to Europe was out of reach for us, but not a special gift, and it took just minutes for us to decide that she would receive a quilt to commemorate this special occasion. I will admit that I don’t believe I’ve ever gotten a quilt done as quickly as this one-considering my busy schedule--and it was a labor of love the whole time. For my fabrics, I selected the six shown here from the Honeymoon collection by Cotton+Steel. I will admit I considered nothing else, partly because of the significance of the name but also because of the beauty of these quality quilting fabrics. Again, name played a role in my selection of the pattern. I chose Honor by Villa Rosa Designs. What I liked about the pattern design is that the fabric would be what makes this quilt stand out, not the design of the pattern itself. The beauty of morning dew pops in the center of the quilt. I also liked this pattern because it was simple to cut and piece, and that was a significant factor for me considering the

Corner Detail

Border Detail

invitation arrived in late March and the wedding was in early July. I cut the fabric in a few hours and pieced the quilt top the next day. I chose to use Palm – Periwinkle for the quilt backing. Since it is a directional fabric, it was easy to piece it so the seam disappeared, and with another day’s work, I was ready to quilt it. Because I wanted this quilt to be special in so many ways, I decided to hand-quilt it. I chose quilting templates that included hearts to keep the theme focused on symbols of love and marriage. The process was lengthy and tedious but well worth the end result. Shown here are some of the pictures I took of the quilting. It isn’t perfection, but the quilting includes love and prayers for the special couple and their families. Finally, I chose the binding to blend the front and back of the quilt. Using Palm – Dusty Blue pulled it together, and with the addition of the label, the wedding quilt was finished. I will admit that it arrived about six weeks late, but we knew the happy couple would still appreciate it. After they received it, we received a thank-you note. They called it “splendid” and told us they loved the colors so they placed it on their bed, a place of honor. That’s all we needed to hear; they love their wedding quilt as much as we do them! •

Quilt completed in August of 2016. Made by Barb Bergquist, a 25-year, dedicated quilter and owner of A Block Away Quilt Shop. Barb can be reached at info@ablockaway.com. You can also visit their website at ablockaway.com.

Center Detail

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Golf Courses in the RGV • • • New Golf Superintendent at Cottonwood Creek Country Club Golf Course By Fran Adams

The

golf course at Cottonwood Creek Country Club is happy to announce they have a new golf superintendent. They offer $9 green fees and $15 for two weekends. Leagues are welcome at Cottonwood Creek, and the fee is $8 per person. Cottonwood Creek Golf Course is a 3-par, 9-hole course. The course was designed by Joseph S. Finger and Kenneth Dye, Jr., ASGCA, and opened in 1984. Cottonwood Creek is open to the public. It is a daily-fee course, and they have pull carts, as well as golf carts, available for rent. They do not have a driving range, but there is a putting and chipping area available. To improve your short game or just to enjoy an hour and a half golfing with friends, go to Cottonwood Creek and check it out. The course is located at

1001 S. Ed Carey in Harlingen. For additional information, call the Pro Shop at 956-428-7758. •

CottonwooD

PAYING TOO MUCH FOR YOUR INSURANCE?

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country club & golf course

If you LOVE golf, you have found one more reason to LOVE the Rio Grande Valley! Across the RGV, there are great golf courses for all levels of golfers. Our region boasts 20+ 18-hole courses and nearly as many nine-hole courses. Some courses are public and some are private. Each week, we will highlight one of the Valley’s courses. Perhaps you can spend this season trying them all! FORE!

Taking Care of Winter Texans Since 1961 Formerly Polzin Insurance

(956) 682-3161 • (866) 279-6402 WWW.MRMHINS.COM 801 W. Pecan • McAllen

www.welcomehomergv.com • • • November 9, 2016

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Don’t Miss the 3rd Annual Mustang Market Day November 12 Special to Welcome Home RGV

Get

your holiday shopping done early at the 3rd Annual Mustang Market Day Saturday, November 12, from 10:00 a.m. to 3 p.m. in Memorial’s two cafeterias. We have Claudia’s Creations, Tupperware, Love and Honor Jesus, Buzzy Bees Designs, Thirty-One gifts, Aromatique, Blue Haven, Sugar Beauty, Jo-nic, Zoodles, Prayers for Paraguay, Stella & Dot, Spark Bracelets, Crafts by Priscilla, Rosie’s Blessings & Gems, Rodan + Fields, Suca Maria, Woodland Crafts, C&C Jewelz & More, Origami Owl, Younique, Scentsy, Avon, Mary Kay, Jamberry Nails, Cuddlemenow, Pureganix, E & J Designs, Bling by Beverly, Cielito LIndo and many more. We will also have Uptown Family Dentistry, Tony Roma’s and Macaroni Grill, Farmer’s Insurance, Council for Educational Travel, and RGV Driving Academy providing

information about their services. And let’s not forget food. We will have food trucks and snacks being sold by the Mustang boys’ basketball team and Achieve Early High School’s National Honor Society. There will also be a Rummage Sale to raise funds for one of our students, senior Briana Fernandez, who is battling cancer. If you would like to donate items, you can drop off your gently used items at Memorial High School. The Rummage Sale will be part of the Mustang Market Day. The MHS Student Council (StuCo) works year=round to promote a sense of community. Our recent projects include working with the Catholic Charities to help immigrants who need assistance, clean-ups with the City of McAllen’s Adopt-a-Spot, Wounded Warrior projects, helping with RioReforestation, organizing “Fed UP! With Drug Overdoses

Red Ribbon Rally with neighboring councils, and Vannie Cook Children’s Cancer & Hematology Clinic pantry drives. We also promote spirit at school activities, literacy at different school-sponsored events, and social consciousness for serious topics, such as suicide, depression, cancer, and bullying. The MHS StuCo also raises MHS faculty and staff morale by providing treats and other surprises for them throughout the year. Making all of this happen requires sizable funds. For the third year year, we decided to host a fundraiser that makes money but also gives back to our community by promoting local businesses-Mustang Market Day!!. Through this event, we are also raising funds to send our students to our annual State Student Council Convention. The Texas Association of Student Councils hosts a convention where over 5,000 students in the State of Texas come together and learn new ideas to promote a sense of community not just in our schools but also in our city. The funds raised will pay for registration, hotel, transportation, and meals. We would like to thank our four

sponsors: Herff Jones Graduation Center, Slusher and Associates Law, Colors Name Brand Clothing, and KRGV-Cary Zayas. Their belief in our program and in our students will not be forgotten.

Life is a gift, and it offers us the privilege, opportunity, and responsibility to give something back by becoming more. ~Anthony Robbins For more information, please contact Vivian Tamez or Valeria Carpenter at Memorial High School, 956-632-5201. •

Oscar Sotelo, MD

BOARD-CERTIFIED DERMATOLOGIST

Leader in the Diagnosis and Treatment of Skin Cancer

Revolutionary Skin Cancer Treatment Now Available! It has been said that innovation is the mother of modern medicine. Every day new and exciting treatments and technologies keep the U.S. leading the world in health care. In dermatology, we have seen the same progress as new and better treatments become available in the treatment of skin cancer. SRT is a doctor and patient friendly treatment that requires no anesthetic, cutting, or stitching. It leaves minimal scarring and no disfigurement. With a cure rate of over 95%, it compares favorably to Moh’s surgery. Call Dr. Sotelo’s office for more information.

WE ACCEPT MEDICARE, UNITED HEALTHCARE, SUPPLEMENT INSURANCE, BCBS, AETNA, IMS, WELLMED, HUMANA, PFFS AND TEXAS HEALTH SPRING

6900 N. 10th Street Ste #3 • McAllen, TX 78504 956-682-1591 • Monday-Friday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

www.osoteloskincancer.com

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Shop Early for the Holidays Texas Grapefruit Frozen Yogurt at Holy Spirit’s Market Square Special to Welcome Home RGV

Ho!

Ho! Ho! The holidays are just around the corner, and St. Nick will be making an appearance at Holy Spirit’s Market Square Sunday, November 13, before his schedule gets too busy to leave his North Pole workshop. Holy Spirit Catholic Church is located at 2201 Market Avenue in McAllen. Market Square will be held from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Over 60 vendors will be on hand selling jewelry, crafts,

religious items, candles, furniture, and much, much more. There will also be a Silent Auction, pictures with St. Nick, and St. Nick’s Workshop for children. Funds raised from this event will benefit the Catholic Daughters of the Americas for local projects to help the needy in our community. For more information, contact Judy Houts at 956-607-9242. •

Recipe

compliments of Lone Star Citrus Growers--surprizingly sweet with a hint of zing. Visit the Lone Star Citrus Growers website at wintersweetz.com. •

Compliments of Lone Star Citrus Growers

Texas Grapefruit Frozen Yogurt

Serves 8

• 4 Texas Rio Star Grapefruit (about 4 cups) • 2 (6 oz.) containers Greek yogurt • 1/3 to ½ cup 0-calorie sweetener Section grapefruit and place sections on a sheet pan. Cover with plastic wrap and freeze for at least 30 minutes. Combine frozen grapefruit sections, yogurt, and sweetener in a food processor and process 30 seconds or until smooth and creamy. Scoop into dishes and freeze until ready to serve. Winter Sweetz™ Grapefruit is “surprizingly sweet with a hint of zing.”

www.welcomehomergv.com • • • November 9, 2016

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Pharrmers Market Now Open Every Thursday Special to Welcome Home RGV

Time

to get fresh veggies and unique gifts at your favorite MidValley farmers’ market! The Pharrmers Market reopened for the 2016-17 season November 3 and is open every Thursday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. The Pharrmers Market is at the Food Bank RGV, located at 724 N. Cage Blvd. in Pharr. Visit foodbankrgv.com for more information. •

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November 9, 2016 • • • Welcome

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A Day of Remembrance at Comfort House The Comfort House Board November 15 of Directors is preparing for a Remembrance Memorial Service. The memorial service is to honor and remember our loved ones who have passed peacefully at Comfort House. The Remembrance Service will take place Tuesday, November 15. Please join us at Comfort House Services, Inc., 617 Dallas Ave. in McAllen, at 5:00 p.m. If you would like more information, please call 956-687-7367. Comfort House is a 501(C)(3) organization that provides a homelike residence and 24/7 care from compassionate, loving caregivers who work together with a hospice program to provide palliative care for your loved one. We warmly accept anyone regardless of age, race, ethnicity, religion, social status or ability to pay. We will take care of your loved one as if he/she is our own. We are a ministry of love and compassion, and we only wish to help you and your family. •

Special to Welcome Home RGV

If you are looking for a SAFE, SECURE, and AFFORDABLE home, then Palm Resaca Park Resort is where you want to be! Palm Resaca Park Resort is a no-pet gated retirement community for folks age 55 & over, located in Brownsville, TX. Home owners and renters in Palm Resaca Park Resort come from many northern and central states as well as most provinces of Canada. Rated as the safest city in the great State of Texas, Brownsville is a culturally diverse and fast growing city located at the southernmost tip of the state. Check out our homes for sale (priced from $11,000 to $68,900) – there’s sure to be one just right for you! Come on by and enjoy a stroll around the park. You’ll find that folks are very friendly and will warmly welcome you.

UPCOMING OPEN HOUSE DATES!

Wednesday, November 30, 2016 • 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Wednesday, January 25, 2017 • 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Wednesday, March 1, 2017 • 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. 100 Tangerine Blvd. • Brownsville, Texas REGISTER AT THE OFFICE

PARK AMENITIES:

Heated Swimming Pool & Spa Billiard Room Texas Hold-em & more Shower & Laundry Facilities Social Dances & Line Dancing

AREA ATTRACTIONS:

Office: 956-546-7423 • manager@palmresacapark.org www.palmresacapark.org

Close to South Padre Island/ Gladys Porter Zoo Great Fishing & Birding Activities Affordable Regulation Golf Courses Wide Variety of Restaurants

Wi-Fi Available Organized Golf Trips & Tours

And Much More!

Hispanic Cultural Events Regional Outlet Mall Historical & Ecological Tours Kite-boarding, Parasailing, Jet-skiing

www.welcomehomergv.com • • • November 9, 2016

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HOT Off the Grill: with Sandy Olson

Recipes for All Outdoor Chefs

D

essert isn’t usually the first thing that comes to mind when we’re thinking about firing up the grill. This recipe is super easy and takes advantage of those wonderful juicy, fresh pineapples at Don-Wes and other farmers’ markets. Be sure to clean off any meat drippings or sauce that might be on the grate before you make this recipe. •

Vanilla Grilled Pineapple • 1 pineapple, peeled, cored and sliced ½-inch thick. • 2 tablespoons canola or other mild-tasting vegetable oil • 2 teaspoons real Mexican vanilla • 1 pint cold whipping cream • 1/3 cup sugar • 1/2 teaspoon real Mexican vanilla • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon • 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves In a large chilled bowl, beat the whipping cream with an electric mixer until fluffy. Add the sugar, cinnamon, cloves, and ½ teaspoon vanilla. Whip an additional 15 seconds. Refrigerate until the pineapple is grilled. In a small bowl combine the oil and the 2 teaspoons vanilla. Brush the pineapple rings with this mixture and place on a well-greased hot grill. Cook until grill marks appear, 3-4 minutes. Turn and repeat on the other side of each pineapple ring. Garnish with the spiced whipped cream and serve. NOTE: Never use Cool Whip in place of whipped cream! Sandy Olson--lifelong foodie, restaurant reviewer, cooking teacher, Summer Iowan, and Winter Texan, she spends the season at Palm Shadows RV Park in Donna. You can contact Sandy at midwestfoodie@gmail.com.

Some Like It Hot with Junior League of McAllen, Inc. Special to Welcome Home RGV

Award Winning Beef Fajitas Serves 10-12 • 6 pounds fajitas, well-skinned • California garlic salt (blended • 10-12 fresh limes with parsley and other spices, to taste) • 1/3 cup teriyaki sauce • 2 tablespoons olive oil • Fajita seasoning with tenderizer, to taste Four hours prior to cooking, squeeze fresh lime juice on both sides of meat and sprinkle lightly with teriyaki sauce. Let stand 2 – 2 ½ hours. Drain excess liquid and sprinkle garlic salt and fajita seasoning over meat. Using a small brush, dab olive oil all over both sides of the meat. This will prevent burning the meat over hot flames. Cook marinated fajitas quickly over very hot coals. Flame cook until darkened, turn meat over, and repeat. Remove from flames once both sides are darkened. Cut into 1-inch strips across the grain. Serve hot with tortillas, pico de gallo, and margaritas. The Junior League of McAllen, Inc. envisions significantly improving the quality of life of the children and youth of our community by preserving the innocence of childhood, encouraging responsibility, and promoting a safe environment. Cookbooks can be purchased through the Junior League website at www.juniorleaguemcallen.org, as well as at Barn White and Quips & Quotes in McAllen.

Architecture of the Rio Grande Valley: A Visual Journey at IMAS!

Special to Welcome Home RGV

The

International Museum of Art & Science (IMAS) is the premier venue for the photography exhibition Architecture of the Rio Grande Valley: A Visual Journey from November 12, 2016, to April 9, 2017, in the Welcome Pavilion at IMAS. The 30 photographs selected from a forthcoming book, Architecture of the Rio Grande Valley: Vol. I, celebrate the architecture that reflects the region, its craftsmen, its cultures, and its climate over the past 160 years. Photographer Deval “Pino” Shah has captured the significant architecture of the four border counties and has created a visual perspective of the Valley--its traditions and innovations, persistence, and adaptations. Saturday, November 12, Shah will talk about Architecture of the Rio Grande Valley at 3 p.m. in the Welcome Pavilion at IMAS. Sunday, November 13, Shah will conduct a photography workshop from 2 to 3:30 p.m., which will include a discussion of cameras (smartphone and/or dslr), lenses, shooting in RAW, tripods, and composition basics. Bring your own camera or smart photo for hands-on tips and tricks. Stay after and work with Mr. Shah as you snap some photos of IMAS! This workshop is perfect for beginner to intermediate photographers.

The exhibition’s architectural images provide a journey through history and heritage while revealing that the border’s built environment is filtered through diverse cultures: Mexican, Spanish, American, German, and French. Pino Shah is a photographer based in McAllen and in Ahmedabad, India, who specializes in architecture, food, and the performing arts (ArtByPino. com). His architectural photographs of his birthplace, Ahmedabad, are aiding a grassroots project to secure a UNESCO World Heritage City designation for the 600-year-old city. The research and words accompanying Shah’s photographs are by Stephen Fox and Rochelle Hawk. Architectural historian Stephen Fox is a lecturer at Rice School of Architecture and Gerald D. Hines College of Architecture at the University of Houston. Rochelle Hawk is a writer based in Ohio. A former journalist, she now works in marketing and public relations. General Admission is free for IMAS Members, $7 for adults, $5 for seniors and for student with an ID, and $4 for children. Ask about our Museums for All program. For more information, please call 956-6820123 or visitwww.theimasonline.org. IMAS is located at 1900 W. Nolana Avenue in McAllen. •

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

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Things I Have Learned

A somewhat random and reckless look at life from a fairly old guy. by William Ward

The Flag Still Waved

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O

ne of my many roles is writing history stories for a local historical society. As I dig through old files, I find a wealth of old tales long lost to the current occupants of my town. In those old tales, I find examples of courage, compassion, sacrifice, hard work, and community pride. As I work on this project, it occurs to me that too much of our history is lost to the present generation. They might learn the big picture in history class, but no one teaches them the local details that were the foundations of their own town or community. No one teaches them the stuff that really matters, the stuff of character. One of the most fantastic stories I have heard comes from someplace else. The location was Fort McHenry in Maryland in 1814. The young nation was at war again with Great Britain. The fort was crowded with militia and many civilians. The British had issued a challenge to the Americans to lower their flag and surrender to British rule. All they had to do was drop the flag to be safe. If they didn’t, the British Navy intended to level the fort. The flag stayed up. The British began the bombardment with immense fury. After several hours, the frustrated British instructed all their ships to focus fire on the flag. While they did that, in the hold of one British ship, a group of American prisoners knelt in prayer. They prayed for the survival of that flag. Through the night, that flag held fast. In the morning the bombardment ceased. To the amazement of all, that flag still stood. It was ripped to shreds

and leaning at a cockeyed angle, but there it was. An American attorney, who had been stuck on that prison ship throughout the night, found his way onto a boat to shore. There he learned the rest of the story. The soldiers in that fort knew the importance of that flag standing through the night. As it took hit after hit and began to topple, some of them went out into the firestorm and held it up. As they died, others came and took their place. By morning, the flag,leaning at an odd angle, still stood, not by the strength of its pole but by the height of the pile of bodies that surrounded it. You all know the rest of the story. You know the song that came out of that event. You probably associate it with sporting events. Most people don’t give a second thought to it, other than getting to the end so we can hear the words “play ball.” The song isn’t just about bombs bursting or flags still there. It is about the personal sacrifice and courage that built America, the courage and determination that allowed those soldiers to die as free Americans rather than as British citizens. That same character built our pioneer towns. Those brave folks were the stock from which you and I descended. I am just wondering how long we can hang on to the remnants of the pioneer and nation building chutzpa of the folks like the soldiers at Ft. McHenry. I’m finding it in the tales of my town. I’m finding it in today’s news. Will future historians find it? I’m just askin’. •

Bill Ward is a retired health care administrator from Minnesota, and a regular columnist, author, and untalented rock n’ roll musician. He winters at Casa Del Sol in Donna. You can contact Bill by email at bwward@charter.net.

Guillermo Salinas, M.D. F.A.C.C., F.S.C.A.I.

Jeremy Enslein, M.D. F.A.C.C.

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www.welcomehomergv.com • • • November 9, 2016

13

Lamb’s Loom Ladies Share Their Stories by Terri

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’m not a terribly crafty person, though I’ve taken part in a few trends. I learned embroidery from my grandmother and kept myself occupied for a while embroidering pillowcases, table scarves, and even placemats, napkins, and tablecloths. But, actually, how many of those do you need, even if you give them away as Christmas or birthday or wedding gifts? Then there was latch hooking and making a few rugs and a few pillows. Again, not much demand for such things. T-shirt decorating? Same story. But then there was this ladies’ luncheon at church and our good friend, Nancy Lenz, introduced us to the idea of loom knitting. It was easy to learn, easy to adapt, easy on the hands, and produced hats, scarves, and shawls that were very useful, as well as decorative. It also involved a purpose—a ministry. The shawls were called prayer shawls. The idea was to pray as you created the shawl for the person who was going to own/wear it. Prayer shawls were intended for people who needed a positive touch, a tangible sign of God’s love. Someone who suffered a loss, someone who was ill, someone who provided care for a loved one who was ill/dying, and, sometimes, there

was a shawl for someone who’d never heard the gospel story and needed to know God’s love. The shawl/hat/ scarf as a gift could open a door to communication and sharing. It began as a group of volunteers who met at a church, but it grew beyond that. We decided to include others in the community in the ministry of knitting and donating the goods to missionaries who took them to the poor or orphans or the ill in other countries, as well as our own. We sent shawls to mothers whose sons were in prison, to those in hospice care, to those going through chemo. We began to meet in a Christian bookstore and gathered a few more ladies; it didn’t matter what church/denomination because we all serve the same Savior. The bookstore changed locations and no longer had room for us, so we moved on to a coffee shop, which worked for a while. Then God opened doors—no, He flung them open and pointed a neon arrow—and led several of us to open The Lamb’s Loom as a yarn and consignment store. The Lamb’s Loom provides an outlet for creativity and donated fiber art projects for distribution by missionaries, hospitals, or churches and allows a way to fund the needs to support

such a ministry. Shipping gets expensive, even with the use of space bags. Some people have the ability and will to do the work of knitting or crocheting but are not financially able to buy the yarn. God has answered this need by having people find us and donate yarn, money, and prayers, as well as their talents. It’s crafting with a purpose and a place to find companionship, instruction, inspiration, and encouragement. Classes are offered in crochet, needle knitting, loom knitting , and weaving, for those who’d like to learn new skills, and there is a ‘sit and knit’ room when classes aren’t meeting that can give you a quiet refuge. The Lamb’s Loom is a non-profit 501(c)(3) prayer shawl ministry, and the monies you spend here will benefit children and less privileged folks all around the world. Everyone is welcome to join in! The Lamb’s Loom is located at 1209 Pecan in

McAllen, just inside Jac-Lin’s Florist. You can also find us on Facebook, or give us a call at 956-607-6855. Our thanks to all the ladies who have offered to share their stories with you! This is one of several to come. We hope you enjoy! •

MHDBRK00003552

Ernie Meyer (956) 357-2102 MHSLSP00043084 emeyer@wthsinc.com

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Lance Conn (956) 245-9969

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Tim Hoffman (956) 873-9550

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14

November 9, 2016 • • • Welcome

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

Operation WE Care Seeking Donations for Care Packages for Our Deployed Troops Drop-Off Night Friday, November 11 Special to Welcome Home RGV

The

Game Changers McTX organization is seeking monetary donations and personal hygiene items in support of Operation WE Care. The money and items donated will be to make and ship care packages for our troops deployed overseas. Game Changers will be hosting a Donation Drop-off Night Friday, November 11, Veteran’s Day, from 5:00 – 9:00 p.m. at the McAllen Food Park, located at 10 N. Broadway in McAllen. We invite the community to stop by to drop their donations and enjoy some great food from the many different food trucks at the McAllen Food Park. Operation WE Care is a Game Changers operation that will collect donations and ship much-needed care packages to our newly arrived troops in Syria. “As a fellow Iraq veteran myself-and many of our members--we know the impact these packages have on the mental state of our deployed troops,” said Alex Almanza, Game Changers McTX president. “We know these packages will bring joy, happiness, and pride to our troops during the upcoming holiday season.” Game Changers is a local, nonprofit Christian veterans’ organization. They are determined to assist our brave military service men and women, our fellow veterans, and our community in the Rio Grande Valley. They volunteer time with our veteran residents at the Alfredo Gonzalez Texas State Veterans Home and place

flags on every veteran’s tomb located in the Rio Grande Valley State Veterans Cemetery in Mission, throughout the year. They also provide peer-to-peer group support meetings for fellow veterans, veterans’ dependents, and veteran caregivers who are dealing with addiction, depression, anxiety, anger, and all other mental conditions associated with PTSD. Some essential items that can be donated to help make these care packages are baby wipes, greeting cards (all occasions--birthdays, anniversaries, holidays), envelopes, small composition books, pens, travel-size shampoo, conditioner, and bars of soap, feminine hygiene products, small Bibles, and pocket notebooks. Game Changers also encourages both children and adults to write letters to be included in each care package. Other drop-off locations available through November 11 are the Tobacco Prevention and Control Coalition at 5510 N. Cage Blvd., Ste. R, in Pharr, Green Beret at 2316 N. 10th St. in McAllen, and Monarca Insurance at 4311 N. 10th St., Bldg. C, Ste. B3 in McAllen. If you or your organization would like to write a letter or make a donation or need more information about Game Changers McTX or their services, please contact Amencio “Alex” Almanza at 956-563-0877 or by email at gamechangersmctx@ gmail.com. •

www.welcomehomergv.com • • • November 9, 2016

15

laguna madre art league November Artist of the Month: Cassandra Bazhaw Special to Welcome Home RGV

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Cassandra Bazhaw at the Port Isabel Lighthouse, one of her favorite photographic subjects

old, colorful, creative, fun ... words that describe Cassandra Bazhaw and her body of artwork. Her introspective mindset and abstract expressionist nature provide the stage and impetus that propels her as the artist who finds beauty in simplicity and promotes it to artistic reality. Her goal is to provide the visual channel to experience the world she sees but within our own context. An additional aspect of this talented artist’s work are the ingenious artwork titles. They are fun, clever and usually not so obvious to the work but more to the human experience. A good example of this are the three pieces of artwork she has chosen to display at the Port Isabel Public Library during the month of November. They are Family Reunion, a grouping of ice plant succulent cactus; Use It or Lose It, a black and white capture of a fraying rope; and Home Sweet Home, a vintage Harley Davidson motorcycle parked in front of Harley and Davidson’s original garage. Cassandra is a lifelong photographer. Since early childhood, she has

been photographing everything that catches her eye. She continues to do so to this day. Her foundation as a professional photographic artist is derived by the many years of behind-the-lens experience, coupled with participation in classes and workshops and personal mentoring by a Cleo-Award-winning photographer. Cassandra’s educational background is in industrial psychology, coupled with a long-term career in human resources. With that career behind her, she now enjoys the ability to focus her life on seeking, capturing, creating, and sharing the many beautiful and unusual photographic scenes that encase her body of work. Cassandra, a native-born Californian, currently maintains residences and studios in Washington and South Texas. She is also an avid boater with a love for water, nature. and lighthouses. This is what drew her to Port Isabel. “I am totally in love with the historic Port Isabel Lighthouse,” Cassandra said. “I feel so at home when I am around it.” You will often find

“Lunch on the Bay”

Cassandra and her husband, Jack, roaming around Port Isabel and South Padre Island, mingling with friends and photographing the many beautiful shoreline scenes found in the area. Cassandra is an avid supporter of the Arts. She maintains memberships with the Laguna Madre Art League (Port Isabel), the Upper Valley Art League (Mission), Harlingen Art Forum (Harlingen) in Texas and the Whatcom Art Guild and Allied Arts of Whatcom County in Bellingham, Washington. She has presented her artwork in a variety of art shows and galleries in both states and has been the recipient of many accolades and articles. Additional information about Cassandra, upcoming art shows, and gallery representations can be found on her website at www.cebazhaw.com. See Cassandra’s unique art at the Port Isabel Public Library during the month of November. Entrance is free and open to the public. For library hours, call 956-943-2265. The library is located at 213 Yturria Street. •

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November 9, 2016 • • • Welcome

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

28th Annual Memorial High School Musical

The Wizard of Oz Tickets Now on Sale Special to Welcome Home RGV

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ne of the most beloved musicals of all time, The Wizard of Oz, comes to the Valley in McAllen Memorial High School Choir’s 28th annual musical production! The award-winning show, based on L. Frank Baum’s novel, features music and lyrics by Harold Arlen and E.Y. Harburg, including memorable classics such as Over the Rainbow, If I Only Had A Brain, Ding, Dong the Witch Is Dead, If I Were King of the Forest, and more! With its unforgettable songs, classic cast of characters, and talented performers, The Wizard of Oz is musical entertainment at its best! Performances will be at the McAllen Memorial High School Auditorium at 101 E. Hackberry and will play December 1 and 2 at 7:30 p.m. and December 3 at 2:00 p.m. Tickets are $10 and can be purchased at McAllen Stained Glass,

D From the Inside, Out D Hummingbirds – Part II

by Marge Flados

inside the Art Village at 800 N. Main St., or at the Welcome Home RGV office at 219 W. Nolana. You can also reserve your tickets by calling the Memorial High School Choir Department at 632-5258. The Wizard of Oz by L. Frank Baum. Music and lyrics by Harlen Arlen and E.Y. Harburg. Background music by Herbert Stothart. Dance and vocal arrangements by Peter Howard. Orchestration by Larry Wilcox. Adapted by John Kane for the Royal Shakespeare Company. Based upon the classic motion picture owned by Turner Entertainment Co. and distributed in all media by Warner Bros. The Wizard of Oz is presented by arrangement with TAMS-WITMARK MUSIC LIBRARY, INC. 560 Lexington Avenue, New York, New York 10022 •

I

love hummingbirds, and they are among the most amazing of God’s creatures. They are considered tropical birds, but historically, as the Ice Age disappeared, they expanded their ranges to populate vast areas of the American continent as far north as Canada and Alaska. The nectar they eat from flowers and birdfeeders provide the energy to power their flycatching habits, which make them carnivores. Who would have ever thought that? In the fall of the year, difficulty in finding sufficient food motivates them to fly south to Central America. Some species winter here in South Texas, along the Gulf Coast, and along the Outer Banks of North Carolina. They gorge on insects and spiders in winter and add a layer of fat in preparation for flying to the northern reaches of North America. At times they must cross the Gulf of Mexico, nonstop, flying for 500 miles, which takes 18 to 22 hours, depending on the weather. They burn off over half their body weight during the flight north. When flying over land, they will stop to feed. Like our Winter Texans, the further they have traveled north, the sooner they begin their southward flight, and the hummers that live farther south leave later for their winter homes. Unlike the Winter Texans, the determining factor for departure date is when they are fat enough to make the trip. In addition to that extra layer of fat, departure is determined more by day length and hours of sunlight than by temperature. Males leave first, followed in 10 days by the females. Good show. They don’t migrate in large groups, which keeps them from being wiped

Marge Flados

out due to bad flight conditions. Once in North America, they slow down and fly about 20 miles a day, following the earliest blooming flowers, eventually returning to where they were the previous year. The migrations are completed by late May. The buff-bellied hummingbird is common in South Texas and occasionally winters here, as well. Last year I had a rather lonesome “buffie” around all winter long. It must have seemed a long and dreary season for him. It is recommended to keep the feeders up as long as there is a possibility of a hungry bird in the vicinity. It is what keeps them coming back to the same place each year. During summer when my feeder becomes empty, my hummers will fly up against my windows and beat their wings against the glass as if to say, “Hey! Have you forgotten me?” Love those little hummers! Reference: Hummingbirds in Texas: Migration Basics (Google) • M. Flados is a resident of Harlingen and can be reached at nflados@rgv.rr.com

>> MONARCH MIGRATION CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

are encouraged to plant native milkweed plants, along with native nectar sources, in a residential or business landscape. Because Monarch caterpillars will eat only milkweed, they are dependent upon the distribution of these plants throughout the American landscape. Anyone can participate in Monarch butterfly conservation by simply accommodating these animals in our gardens. Milkweeds can be found at various native plant nurseries throughout the Valley. There is one plant that has permeated the nursery industry as monarchs have gained more public attention—Tropical milkweed will readily host monarch caterpillars and that’s the problem.

Tropical milkweed, unlike our native milkweeds, is a vector of a disease that kills monarchs because the foliar parts of the plant do not shed in winter, which allows the disease to accumulate on the plants foliage. Planting our native species of milkweed, the Zizotes. commonly referred to as the Prairie Milkweed, will help the Monarch butterfly and many other species of insects. Monarchs are arguably one of the most iconic species in the world, and they are an American phenomenon. If we get native nectar sources and host plants into the ground, we can share in the pride that comes with conserving the monarch butterfly for future generations to enjoy. •

www.welcomehomergv.com • • • November 9, 2016

17

Razz-Ma-Tazz Performing their Way across the RGV Special to Welcome Home RGV

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owe High School’s Razz-Ma-Tazz is the Rio Grande Valley’s premier show choir. This season, the ensemble is pleased to present 17 performances throughout the Valley. For more information, visit the Razz-Ma-Tazz website at http://rowe. mcallenisd.org/pages/RoweHigh/Clubs_Organizations/Razz-Ma-Tazz. •

December 2016 Schedule*

December 1 - Casa Del Valle, 7 p.m. December 3 - Bentsen Grove, 7 p.m. December 4 - Siesta Village, 7 p.m. December 5 - Tip O’ Texas, 7 p.m. December 6 - Adobe Wells, 6 p.m. December 8 - Trophy Gardens, 7 p.m. December 9 - Llano Grande, 7 p.m. December 11 - Winter Ranch, 2 p.m. December 11 - Valley View, 7 p.m. December 15 - Lemon Tree, 7 p.m.

7-Night Western Caribbean Cruise

Sailing out of Galveston

PACKAGE INCLUDES:

Chuck & Enid Olsen

will be joining Kristi, from Welcome Home RGV as co-hosts on this exciting cruise!

ALL cruises to be booked through

CHUCK OLSON TOURS & CRUISES 3827 N. 10th St, Suite 203 McAllen, TX 78501 956-664-2916 800-568-9890

• Pre-Cruise Hotel Stay (Evening Meal & Breakfast Included) • Round Trip Transporation from the Valley • Stateroom and all Cruise port fees & taxes • $100 On-Board Ship Credit per Stateroom • Group get-together with Kristi

PACKAGE PRICING per person

Cat N : Inside Stateroom Cat FP : Promenade Stateroom Cat F : Oceanview Stateroom Cat E1 : Balcony Stateroom

$1165/pp $979/pp $1475/pp $1760/pp

*Prices are subject to change based on availability and are based on double occupancy. ***All itineraries are subject to change without notice.

Spring 2017 Schedule*

February 13 - Llano Grande, 7 p.m. February 17 - Canyon Lake, 7 p.m. February 21 - Siesta Village, 7 p.m. February 23 - Casa Del Valle, 7 p.m. February 24 - Aladdin Villas, 7 p.m. March 2 - Tip O’ Texas, 7 p.m. March 7 - Bentsen Grove, 7 p.m. *All dates and times are subject to change

Rowe High School Presents Once Upon a Mattress 27th Consecutive Year for Rowe High School Musical Special to Welcome Home RGV

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or the 27th consecutive year, Rowe High School will present their annual musical. This year the choral department is proud to present Once Upon a Mattress, based on the fairy tale The Princess and the Pea. Tickets for the musical go on sale Monday, November 28, at 8:00 a.m.

and can be purchased in person at Rowe High School or by phone at 956632-5152. Tickets are available for January 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 26, 27, and 28 (2017). For more information, visit the choir website at http://rowe. mcallenisd.org/pages/RoweHigh/ Clubs_Organizations/Razz-Ma-Tazz. •

18

November 9, 2016 • • • Welcome

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

DANCE ENTERTAINMENT & SHOWS

CALENDAR OF EVENTS WEEK OF

November 9 - 15, 2016 WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 9, 2016

Volunteer Programs, 08:30 AM, Quinta Mazatlan, 600 Sunset Dr, McAllen. Volunteer programs are a perfect opportunity to give back to nature, and a fun way to get involved with your community. Enjoy a morning of handson gardening, learn about Valley nature, and earn volunteer service hours! We are also a certified site for Texas Master Naturalist Hours. AGES: All ages welcome (14 and under with the supervision of a parent or guardian only). Note: Large groups, please call in advance so staff can prepare. For information call 956-681-3370. Exhibit Display: Julie Speed - Undertoad, 09:00 AM, International Museum of Art & Science, 1900 W Nolana Ave, McAllen. $7.00 pp. For information call 956-682-0123. RGV Garden Club Meeting, 09:30 AM, Speer Memorial Library, 801

FREE RENT

• Mobile Home Lot :

First Season FREE + Electric

• Park Model Lots :

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• RV Lots :

3 Months (minimum) @ $199.00 + Elec (Full Hookup) Amenities: • Electric Gate • Security Fence • Pool Table • Shuffleboard • Activities • Library • Laundry Room • Exercise/Card Room • Indoor Pool and Hot Tub • Paved Streets • Pads and Patios • Free Basic Internet and Hot Spot in Rec Hall

For More Information

Call Today 956-581-6718

Or visit www.eldoradoacres.com

SALES

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. •

55 or older RV Resort

New Residents Only

MEALS

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

E 12th St, Mission. Every month we provide speakers for gardening tips and timely information. In September we are lucky to have Seth Oleander from Oleander Nursery in Mission. He will have information on different fruit trees that grow here, such as Lingon berry and candy apple. He is also knowledgeable about cactus and native plants. Come join us at 9:30 and meet fellow gardeners. Any questions call Penny Curry at 956-203-9123 or Sue Thaxter at 956-532-9789. Garden Walk & Talk, 10:00 AM, Quinta Mazatlan, 600 Sunset Dr, McAllen. $3.00 pp, As every house has a story, so too does every garden. Join a native garden expert for a tour of a different themed garden each month. For information call 956-681-3370. Social Hour w/Diego, 03:00 PM, Siesta Village, 2712 S International Blvd, Weslaco. Chili, hot dogs, nachos,

2016/2017 Season

JAM SESSIONS

popcorn and soft drinks available. For information, call 956-969-3558 or 952-200-8646. Maxan Street Farmers’ Market, 04:00 PM, The Garden, Port Isabel. The Garden on Maxan Street in Port Isabel’s Lighthouse Square. Additional parking at Pirate’s Landing. For information and vendor opportunities, call 956-433-9675. Dance w/Jack Kay, 05:00 PM, American Legion Post 37, 1305 E Jasmine Ave, McAllen. For information call 956-682-7841. Taco & Chalupa Dinner, 05:00 PM, American Legion Post 37, 1305 E Jasmine Ave, McAllen. For information call 956-682-7841. Brooks Ausborn playing at The Patio on Guerra, 07:00 PM, The Patio on Guerra, 116 S 17th St, McAllen. Brooks Ausborn is an instrumental guitarist playing all your favorites. Multi genres! For information call 956-661-9100. Entertainment w/Deanna Nelson, 07:00 PM, McAllen Mobile Park, 4900 N McColl Rd, McAllen. $5.00 pp, for information call 956-682-3304. Wind Symphony, 07:30 PM, TSC Arts Center, 80 Fort Brown St, Brownsville. $5.00 pp, general admission. For information call 956-882-7025.

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2016

Peppermint Palace Country Jam, 09:00 AM, El Valle Del Sol/Luna, 2500 E Business 83, Mission. For information call 956-585-5704. Buckets of Fun: Let’s Learn about Feathered Friends, 10:00 AM, Quinta Mazatlan, 600 Sunset Dr, McAllen. Preschool children & their parents will have BUCKETS OF FUN with hands-on, nature-inspired lessons. For information call 956-681-3370. Forest Sculpture Trail, 10:00 AM, Quinta Mazatlan, 600 Sunset Dr, McAllen. $3.00 pp. Visit our one-of-a-kind outdoor sculpture trail, and develop an appreciation for the vast variety of creatures that call our region home. Each sculpture provides insight into the natural history of the Rio Grande Valley. For information call 956-681-3370. Happy Hour w/Diego, 03:00 PM, Southern Comfort RV Resort, 1501 S Airport Dr, Weslaco. Pass the hat, for information call 956-638-3158. Happy Hour w/Reagan James,

03:00 PM, Snow to Sun, 1701 N International Blvd, Weslaco. Pass the Hat, BYOB, free ice. For information call 956-968-0322. Eldorado Acres Thursday Night Dinner, 04:00 PM, Eldorado Acres RV Park, 610 N FM 492, Mission. 1/3 lb. burger, chicken breast or pork loin sandwich, homemade slaw, homemade potato wedges- $5.50 each. Tea or lemonade free w/meal. For information call 804-720-2845. Winter Texan Welcome Home Fiesta, 04:00 PM, Old Hidalgo Pumphouse Museum & World Birding Center, 902 S 2nd St, Hidalgo. FREE Admission, The City of Hidalgo welcomes Winter Texans with a fiesta. Live entertainment and lots of fun! For information call 956-843-8686. Soup Supper, 04:30 PM, Bit-O-Heaven RV & MH, 1051 W Bus Hwy 83, Donna. $2.00 pp, BYOTS, desserts for sale. For information call 603-396-2786. Loaded Baked Potatoes, 05:00 PM, American Legion Post 37, 1305 E Jasmine Ave, McAllen. For information call 956-682-7841. Nature Speaker Series: The Present & Future of Sustainable Agriculture in Cuba, 06:00 PM, Quinta Mazatlan, 600 Sunset Dr, McAllen. $3.00 pp, Dr. Alex Racelis, UTRGV, join our weekly nature speaker series, and explore nature through the insight of expert speakers. For information call 956-681-3370. Brooks Ausborn playing at The Patio on Guerra, 07:00 PM, The Patio on Guerra, 116 S 17th St, McAllen. Brooks Ausborn is an instrumental guitarist playing all your favorites. Multi genres! For information call 956-661-9100. Dance w/Fred Goldsberry, 07:00 PM, Victoria Palms RV Resort, 602 N Victoria Rd, Donna. $5.00 pp. Free ice & Popcorn BYOB Margarita setups and regular soda set-ups available for purchase. For more information call 956-249-2266. Dance w/Texas Wheels, 07:00 PM, Mission Bell RV Resort, 1711 E Bus Hwy 83, Mission $5.00 pp. For information call 956-585-4833. Live Entertainment w/Trio Tres en Punto, 08:00 PM, San Miguelito Restaurant, 6101 N 23rd St, McAllen. Live Latin music, romantic music hits from the 40’s to the 60’s. For information call 956-862-6763.

www.welcomehomergv.com • • • November 9, 2016

DANCE ENTERTAINMENT & SHOWS FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 2016

Craft Fair, 08:00 AM, Bit-O-Heaven RV & MH, 1051 W Bus Hwy 83, Donna. Food will be available for sale. For information call 603-396-2786. X-treme BUGS Invade IMAS!, 09:00 AM, International Museum of Art & Science, 1900 W Nolana Ave, McAllen. $13.00 pp, It features over 100 giant bugs, including 22 massive animatronic bugs naturalistic habitats. For information call 956-682-0123. History Tour, 10:00 AM, Quinta Mazatlan, 600 Sunset Dr, McAllen. $3.00 pp.As one of the largest adobe homes in Texas, Quinta Mazatlan is truly a sight to be seen. Join a history expert on a tour of the house, and learn the stories behind its intricate designs, and the families who lived in it before the City of McAllen opened Quinta Mazatlan 2006 as a “mansion with a mission.” Country Jam, 12:30 PM, Casa Del Sol, 400 N Val Verde Rd, Donna. For information call 956-464-2272. Country Jam, 01:00 PM, McAllen Mobile Park, 4900 N McColl Rd, McAllen. FREE Admission. For information call 956-688-6812. 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. 21 Gun Salute to Honor All Veterans, 03:00 PM, Chimney Park RV Resort, 4224 S Conway, Mission. 21 Gun Salute to Honor All Veterans by American Legion Post 93, Mission. Join us for the salute--everyone is welcome to attend. For information call 956-585-5061. Brooks Ausborn at Cowboy Chicken, 03:30 PM, Cowboy Chicken, 1020 W Nolana Ave, McAllen. FREE Admission. For information call 956-279-1872. Roast Beef Dinner, 05:00 PM, American Legion Post 37, 1305 E Jasmine Ave, McAllen. For information call 956-682-7841. Karaoke, 06:30 PM, Tip O’Texas RV Resort, 101 E Sioux Rd, Pharr. For more information call 920-740-1307 Dance w/Diego, 07:00 PM, Bentsen Grove Resort, 1645 S Bentsen Palm Dr, Palmview $6.00 pp. For information call 956-585-0703. Dance w/Hot Rodz, 07:00 PM, Elks Lodge #1889, 1426 S Commerce St, Harlingen. For information call 956-423-4290. Dance w/Jealous Heart, 07:00 PM, Texas Trails RV Resort, 501 W Owassa Rd, Pharr. $5.00 pp. For information call 956-787-6538. Dance w/SweetWater, 07:00 PM,

Country Sunshine RV Resort, 1601 S Airport Dr, Weslaco. $6.00 pp, tickets sold in advance and at the door. For information call 956-638-3158. Dance w/Texas Breed, 07:00 PM, American Legion Post 37, 1305 E Jasmine Ave, McAllen. For information call 956-682-7841. Dance w/Texas Wheels, 07:00 PM, Fun-N-Sun RV Resort, 1400 Zillock Rd, San Benito. $5.00 pp. For information call 956-399-5800.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 2016

South Padre Marathon, 06:30 AM, South Padre Island. South Padre Island, the Sandcastle Capital of the World, is now home to the ultimate Runcation weekend! The SPI Marathon and HalfMarathon begin at the historic Port Isabel lighthouse, crosses the crystal waters of the Laguna Madre, via the 2.5-mile Queen Isabella Causeway, to the sunsoaked shores of South Padre Island. White sand beaches, sandcastles, palm trees and enthusiastic spectators line the route to your finish line at the largest beach bar in Texas! Acres Big Breakfast, 07:00 AM, Eldorado Acres RV Park, 610 N FM 492, Mission. Pancakes, eggs to order, homemade sausage gravy w/ biscuits, fresh hash browns, bacon, sausage or ham. (Meals starting @$2.50) Free coffee w/meal. For information call 804-720-2845. All Park Yard Sale, 07:00 AM, Paradise Resort Estates, 301 E Hall Acres Rd, Pharr. For information call 956-787-1521. Saturday Morning Breakfast, 07:00 AM, Chimney Park RV Resort, 4224 S Conway, Mission. $4.00 pp, Enjoy breakfast & viewing Rio Grande! Menu varies at great prices. BYOP. For information call 956-585-5061. Saturday Morning Breakfast, 07:30 AM, Paradise Park Inc, 100 E Hackberry Ave, McAllen. Donations, BYOTS, pancakes, sausage or ham, biscuits and gravy, eggs, applesauce, grits & toast. For information call 956-682-8081. All Park Yard Sale, 08:00 AM, Snow to Sun, 1701 N International Blvd, Weslaco. For information call 956-968-0322. Patio Sale, 08:00 AM, Bit-O-Heaven RV & MH, 1051 W Bus Hwy 83, Donna. Resident patio yard sales. For information call 603-396-2786. Patio Sale, 08:00 AM, Casa del Valle, 1048 N Alamo Rd, Alamo. For information call 956-783-5008. Bird Walks @ Resaca de la Palma, 08:30 AM, 1000 New Carmen Blvd, Brownsville. Travel by foot or on our new

JAM SESSIONS

MEALS

19

SALES

Growing Growers Farmers Market, 09:00 AM, Firemen’s Park, 1st St & Business 83, McAllen. Open year round. Wide variety of fruits, vegetables, and herbs, along with 100% Certified Grass fed Beef, Gulf caught shrimp, lamb, raw honey, jellies, baked goods, eggs, and natural skin care products. Credit cards and SNAP. Contact Barbara Storz, 956-330-6410. RGV Quilt Guild Meeting, 09:00 AM, South Texas College, Weslaco. Guild meeting is held in Room 191--turn right at the first hallway. The RGV Quilt Guild is open to anyone at any skill level interested in quilting. The annual dues of $25 entitles them to monthly meetings. Birds of a Feather, 10:00 AM, Quinta Mazatlan, 600 Sunset Dr, McAllen. $3.00 pp, Birds of a Feather Flock to Quinta Mazatlan any Saturday in November to learn about bird tweets, bird beaks, and bird treats! Make your own bird feeder and learn how to make suet. For information call 956-681-3370. The Market @ McAllen, 10:00 AM, McAllen Public Library, 4001 N 23rd St, McAllen. Local farmers, ranchers,

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 Programs, 08:30 AM, Quinta Mazatlan, 600 Sunset Dr, McAllen. Volunteer programs are a perfect opportunity to give back to nature, and a fun way to get involved with your community. Enjoy a morning of handson gardening, learn about Valley nature, and earn volunteer service hours! We are also a certified site for Texas Master Naturalist Hours. AGES: All ages welcome (14 and under with the supervision of a parent or guardian only). Note: Large groups, please call in advance so staff can prepare. For information call 956-681-3370. Brownsville’s Farmers Market, 09:00 AM, Ringgold St & E 6th St, Brownsville. Brownsville has its own farmer’s market each week, across the street from Gladys Porter Zoo. For information call 956-882-5896.

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS CONTINUED ON PAGE 20 >>

ter

Visit our spacious Hynes Event Cen

- the place to party in the RGV!

DANCE

BYOB Bar and Concession Available Dance with Fred Goldsberry

HAPPY HOUR

BYOB • Pass the Hat

(Bar and Concession Available)

Happy Hour w/Rewind

November 10 • 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM

JAM SESSION

Saturday, November 12 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM $6.00 pp • Free Ice & Popcorn

Friday, November 18 • Rec Hall 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM

Dance with Sweetwater

Every Wednesday • $8.75 All You Can Eat Buffet

Saturday, November 19 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM $6.00 pp • Free Ice & Popcorn

FISH FRY

Every Thursday • $9.25 All You Can Eat!

Nov. 10 • 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM Nov. 17 • 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM

KARAOKE DINNER

November 16 • 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM

Pork Loin, Rosemary Potatoes, Peas & Carrots, Roll, Ice Tea, Coffee

KARAOKE

with Harry and Judy Every Wednesday

BYOB, Bar and Concession Available November 16 • 5:00 PM

20

November 9, 2016 • • • Welcome

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

DANCE ENTERTAINMENT & SHOWS

JAM SESSIONS

MEALS

SALES

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 19 chefs, and artisans each contributing to the healthy life style changes our community desperately needs. Country Jam Lunch, 11:00 AM, Green Gate Grove, 700 N Bentsen Palm Dr, Mission. OPEN TO THE PUBLIC.For more information call 956-584-1561. The Sons of Norway Palmedal LodgeTexas, 12:00 PM, Gatti’s Pizza, 4100 N 2nd St, McAllen. Planned programs and study our Norwegian Heritage. For information call 319-830-6507. Country Jam, 12:30 PM, Green Gate Grove, 700 N Bentsen Palm Dr, Mission. OPEN TO THE PUBLIC, Lunch served at 11:00 am. For more information call 956-584-1561. Big Band/Rock & Roll Jam, 01:00 PM, McAllen Mobile Park, 4900 N McColl Rd, McAllen. Open to the public, desserts and coffee served at intermission. Musicians and vocalists by invitation only. For information call 956-874-5041. Opening Reception: Architecture of the RGV, 01:00 PM, International Museum of Art & Science, 1900 W Nolana Ave, McAllen. $7.00 pp, On Nov 12 Shah will talk about Architecture of the RGV from 1:00 pm to

3:00 pm in Welcome Pavilion at IMAS. For information call 956-682-0123. Birds of a Feather, 02:00 PM, Quinta Mazatlan, 600 Sunset Dr, McAllen. $3.00 pp, Birds of a Feather Flock to Quinta Mazatlan any Saturday in November to learn about bird tweets, bird beaks, and bird treats! Make your own bird feeder and learn how to make suet. For information call 956-681-3370. Fall Folklorico & Mariachi Concert, 02:00 PM, Alejandro “Alex” H. Saenz Performing Arts Center, 604 Coyote Drive, La Joya. 3 schools, 1 voice. For information call 956-323-2897. Harlingen Farmers Market, 03:00 PM, Downtown Harlingen, ‘A’ Street. The Market is on Jackson and Monroe, behind Grimsells and in front of New York Deli. Producers supply residents the freshest locally grown food, come take advantage of the best Harlingen has to offer! Homemade Burgers & Chicken Strips, 03:00 PM, American Legion Post 37, 1305 E. Jasmine Ave, McAllen. For information call 956-682-7841.

VICTORIA PALMS RV RESORT

COMING SOON!

UPCOMING DANCE EVENTS

Margarita and Soda Set-ups Free Popcorn and Ice • BYOB Come party with us • Singles welcome!

November 10 Fred Goldsberry 7:00 pm • Ballroom • $5.00 November 15 Carlos Canas 7:00 pm • Ballroom • $6.00 November 17 Diego 7:00 pm • Ballroom • $5.00 November 22 Rewind 7:00 pm • Ballroom • $6.00

SPECIAL EVENT

Veterans Day Program November 11 • 9:00 am • Ballroom Gather to honor all Veterans!

COMING SOON IN 2017! Concert / Show

The Redhead Express January 20 • 7:00 pm • $10.00 Ballroom

956-782-3263

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

RVontheGo.com RVSouthTexas.com

We are NOW connecting YOU to better savings! Do you have something you would like to sell or give away? Would you like to advertise a garage sale?

Call today to place your listing! 956-687-5115

Dance w/Route 66, 07:00 PM, Casa del Valle, 1048 N Alamo Rd, Alamo. For information call 956-783-5008. Dance w/Southern Knights, 07:00 PM, Snow to Sun, 1701 N International Blvd, Weslaco. $6.00 pp, BYOB, free ice. For information call 956-968-0322. Dance w/SweetWater, 07:00 PM, Trophy Gardens RV Resort, 800 State Highway 495, Alamo. $5.00 pp, concessions and set ups available, BYOB. For information call 956-685-5300. Dance w/Texas Wheels, 07:00 PM, Casa del Valle, 1048 N Alamo Rd, Alamo. $5.00 pp. For information call 956-783-5008. Dance w/Time Machine, 07:00 PM, American Legion Post 37, 1305 E Jasmine Ave, McAllen. For information call 956-682-7841. Fall Folklorico & Mariachi Concert, 07:00 PM, Alejandro “Alex” H. Saenz Performing Arts Center, 604 Coyote Drive, La Joya. 3 schools, 1 voice. For information call 956-323-2897. La Noche de la Guitarra, 07:30 PM, TSC Arts Center, 80 Fort Brown St, Brownsville. Special Event Series, ticket prices vary $5.00 - $15.00. For information call 956-882-7025.

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 13, 2016

Church Service, 08:45 AM, Oleander Acres RV Resort, 2421 S Conway Ave, Mission. Pastor Doug Rogland. For information call 262-497-4241. Church Service, 08:45 AM, Winter Haven Park, 1015 W Sam Houston Blvd, Pharr. Pastor Robert Kracht, Communion first Sunday of the month. For information call 956-781-7881. Church Service, 09:00 AM, Citrus Valley RV Park, 2901 W Hwy 107, McAllen. Pastor Jim Troutman, Communion service 1st Sunday of the month. For information call 956-383-8189. Church Service, 09:00 AM, Chimney Park RV Resort, 4224 S Conway, Mission. Everyone is welcome to attend then join us for coffee and cookies after the Service. For information call 956-585-5061. Church Service, 09:00 AM, Fiesta Village RV Park, 205 S Stewart Rd, Mission. Pastor Bob Pueblos. For information call 956-585-9264. Church Service, 09:00 AM, Southern Comfort RV Resort, 1501 S Airport Dr, Weslaco. Main Hall. For information call 956-638-3158. Church Service, 09:00 AM, Hidden Valley Ranch, 7600 Long Dr, Mission. Pastor Cliff Stewart, coffee and

refreshments available at 8:30 am. For information call 956-580-4477. Church Service, 09:30 AM, Penitas RV Park, 304 S FM Road 1427, Penitas. Rev. Gebhart, Pastor. Church Service, 10:00 AM, Paradise Resort Estates, 301 E Hall Acres Rd, Pharr. For information call 956-787-1521. Rio Valley Church of Nazarene, 10:45 AM, Rio Valley Church of Nazarene, 1400 W Nolana Ave, McAllen. Please visit our website rvcnaz.org for more information.We are a mixed congregation including Spanish Speaking, as well as Winter Texans. Pastor Kevin Sheese. Farmer’s Market @ The Shores, 11:00 AM, 8500 Padre Blvd, South Padre Island. Fresh produce, fresh eggs, fresh seafood! Healthy shopping for healthy foods. Located at ‘The Shores’ north of SPI Convention Centre. Live Entertainment w/Trio Tres en Punto, 12:30 PM, El Ahuehuete Restaurant, 2708 N Texas Blvd, Weslaco. Free admission, live Latin music, for information call 956-862-6763. Homemade Burgers & Chicken Strips, 01:00 PM, American Legion Post 37, 1305 E Jasmine Ave, McAllen. For information call 956-682-7841. Architecture & Landscape:Photography Workshop, 02:00 PM, International Museum of Art & Science, 1900 W Nolana Ave, McAllen. Shah will conduct a photography workshop which will include a discussion of cameras. For information call 956682-0123. Country Jam, 02:00 PM, Carefree Valley Resort, 4506 N Business 77, Harlingen. Free admission, refreshments served. For information call 956-425-2540. Fall Folklorico & Mariachi Concert, 02:00 PM, Alejandro “Alex” H. Saenz Performing Arts Center, 604 Coyote Drive, La Joya. 3 schools, 1 voice. For information call 956-323-2897. RC Racing, 02:00 PM, Fun-N-Sun RV Resort, Zillock Rd, San Benito. Gospel Jam, 06:00 PM, Blue Bonnet RV Resort, 3366 N Bentsen Palm Dr, Mission. Free admission, Featuring home town favorite Kelly Lyons & Teresa “Blues to the Bone” Burney. For information call 956-585-7630. Student Chamber Ensembles, 07:30 PM, TSC Arts Center, 80 Fort Brown St, Brownsville. FREE Admission. For information call 956-882-7025.

www.welcomehomergv.com • • • November 9, 2016

DANCE ENTERTAINMENT & SHOWS MONDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2016

Country Jam, 01:00 PM, Palm Gardens RV Park, 3401 W Business 83, Harlingen. Open to the public, amplified instruments are allowed. For information call Tom 956-440-8878. Happy Hour w/Diego, 03:00 PM, Snow to Sun, 1701 N International Blvd, Weslaco. Pass the Hat, BYOB, free ice. For information call 956-968-0322. Gospel Jam, 06:00 PM, Carefree Valley Resort, 4506 N Business 77, Harlingen. Free admission, refreshments served. For information call 956-425-2540. Magic Valley Chorus Of Sweet Adelines International, 07:00 PM, St. Mark’s United Methodist Church, McAllen. For information call Shirley 956-661-9926 or Janet 956-682-8245. Clarinet Studio Recital, 07:30 PM, TSC Arts Center, 80 Fort Brown St, Brownsville. FREE Admission. For information call 956-882-7025.

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2016

Radical Elements, 09:00 AM, International Museum of Art &

Science, 1900 W Nolana Ave, McAllen. $7.00 pp, Soft materials meet hard science in this exhibition in Clark Gallery. For information call 956-682-0123. Square Dancing Plus, 10:00 AM, Pine To Palm Resort Park, 802 S International Blvd, Weslaco. $4.50 pp, Rounds at 9:30 w/Ron & Georgine Woolcock. For information call 956-968-5760. Jam Session, 12:00 PM, Bit-OHeaven RV & MH, 1051 W Bus Hwy 83, Donna FREE Admission, popcorn & soda for sale. For information call 603-396-2786. Diabetes Management Class, 01:00 PM, 3rd Floor, McAllen Medical Center. East Classroom, classes are provided in English and Spanish every other week. For information call Mary Escaname at 956-971-5850. Jam Session, 01:00 PM, Roadrunner RV Park, 1222 N Cesar Chavez Rd, Alamo. Lunch served at 11:30 am. For information call 712-259-2222. Jam w/Ray & Gynger, 01:00 PM, Oleander Acres RV Resort, 2421 S Conway Ave, Mission. Oleander’s

JAM SESSIONS

MEALS

famous cake served at half time. For information call 956-585-9093. Happy Hour w/Lynn Dvorak, 03:00 PM, Snow to Sun, 1701 N International Blvd, Weslaco. Pass the Hat, BYOB, free ice. For information call 956-968-0322. Happy Hour, 03:30 PM, Bit-O-Heaven RV & MH, 1051 W Bus Hwy 83, Donna. Pass the hat, BYOB, popcorn & soda for sale, bring your own snacks. For information call 603-396-2786. Hamburger Night, 04:30 PM, Aladdin Villas, 1415 Aladdin Villas Blvd West, Mission $5.00 pp, Hamburgers, cheeseburgers, cole slaw, chips, grilled onions and all the fixins. Lemonade or ice tea. For information call 309-657-3550. Conversational Spanish for Winter Texans, 05:00 PM, Various RV Parks See our Facebook page for details. Call 956-681-6707 for location of classes. Overeaters Anonymous, 06:00 PM, St. John’s Episcopal Church, 2500 N 10th St, McAllen. Are you having problems with food? Come join us for an informative support group on how to help

21

SALES

control your cravings. For information call Carmen 956-884-9909. Valley’s H.O.P.E. Stroke Support Group, 06:00 PM, Valley Baptist Medical Center in the Woodward Conference Room. The H.O.P.E. (Haven Offering Patient Encouragement) Stroke Support Group meets monthly in Harlingen at Valley Baptist Medical Center in the Woodward Conference Room. For more information call 888-902-5433. Brooks Ausborn playing at The Patio on Guerra, 07:00 PM, The Patio on Guerra, 116 S 17th St, McAllen. Brooks Ausborn is an instrumental guitarist playing all your favorites. Multi genres! For information call 956-661-9100. Dance w/Carlos Canas, 07:00 PM, Victoria Palms RV Resort, 602 N Victoria Rd, Donna. $6.00 pp. Free ice & Popcorn BYOB Margarita setups and regular soda set-ups available for purchase. For more information call 956-249-2266. •

22

November 9, 2016 • • • Welcome

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

Enjoy Savings. Maximize Life.

COUPON

CONNECTION

Looking for ways to SAVE right here in the Rio Grande

Valley? Our weekly coupon section will help you SAVE while you’re here, enjoying life in the Valley. •

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SPECTACULAR SAVINGS

A/C FILTER PROMOTION A $100 VALUE FOR ONLY

1224 E. Jasmine Ave. | McAllen, Texas 78501

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Bring this coupon to HobbyTown RGV

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*Not valid with any other offer, coupons, or on the sale of gift cards. Limit one per customer. One time use only. Present this coupon at time of purchase to redeem. Offer valid 11/30/2016. Discount good at Hobbytown RGV Brownsville and McAllen stores only.

HobbyTown RGV Brownsville McAllen

www.welcomehomergv.com • • • November 9, 2016

• • • RECIPECONNECTION

23

with

Executive Chef Bettina Tolin

• • • • • • • •

Blueberry Streusel

Coffee Cake

I

Cake

Topping

2 cups all-purpose flour 3/4 cup sugar 1/2 cup half & half 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened 1 large egg 2 teaspoons baking powder 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries

1/4 cup sugar 1/4 cup brown sugar 1/3 cup all-purpose flour 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1/4 cup cold butter, cut into pieces

Heat oven to 375°F. Grease and flour 8-inch square baking pan; set aside. 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 & Bar on the Piazza in Port Isabel, Texas.

LOVE LOVE LOVE this time of year! I live for it - the truth be told. The weather is cooler (in theory), the leaves are falling (somewhere) and comfort food becomes a staple. Along with this Autumn season come house guests – our dearest friends and family – who come together to celebrate with us, and then they stay over-night. You’ll need something to serve them in the morning and ideally something you can make ahead so you can sleep in for a bit. This little coffee cake is perfect for guests to enjoy first thing in the morning with their cup o’ joe or latte. The best part is that you can bake it the night before, set the coffee maker to auto and you can rest easy under the covers. Happy Baking! •

Combine all cake ingredients except blueberries in bowl. Beat at low speed, scraping bowl often, until well mixed. Gently fold in blueberries. Spread batter into prepared pan.

until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Sprinkle mixture over batter. Bake 40-45 minutes or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean.

Stir together all topping ingredients except butter in bowl; cut in butter

Bon Appetit!

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

24

November 9, 2016 • • • Welcome

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