Issuu

FORE! GOLFING IN THE RGV!

UPCOMING EVENTS!

This week features the challenging Alamo Country Club Golf Course!

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

RECIPE CONNECTION!

Executive Chef Bettina Tolin shares the perfect autumn dish recipe!

Welcome Home See details on page 9.

See calendar on page 18.

Try her recipe on page 23.

WINTER TEXAN

VOLUME 2 • ISSUE 5 • November 16, 2016

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

Lots Happening at Weslaco Museum

There’s nothing like spending time

with friends. This past Saturday, I had the opportunity to spend the day with 40 activity directors from parks across the Rio Grande Valley. We started off at Pirate’s Landing in Port Isabel. What a treat! If you haven’t had a chance to dine there, I highly recommend their fried shrimp, although some of our group chose a variety of their salads, and some ordered their burgers (which looked incredible)! Following lunch, we spent the afternoon on a dolphin watch with Osprey Cruises. There’s something about being on the water that just makes me happy. It was a wonderful trip, and the dolphins did not disappoint. Immediately after the dolphin watch, we spent the afternoon shopping on the square, and those who were feeling a bit adventurous went on a Segway tour through the downtown area. We ended the afternoon at Marcello’s-one of my favorite restaurants in the entire Valley. All in all, a great day was had by all. The purpose of this Port Isabel adventure was to provide our activity directors with the opportunity to get to know each other, have a little fun, and make connections so they can better serve YOU throughout the season ahead. I look forward to seeing you out and about this season! • We’re just connecting the dots,

Kristi

Special to Welcome Home RGV

November is upon us. Soon we will

The Oak Ridge Boys Returning

to Llano Grande Resort

Special to Welcome Home RGV

The Oak Ridge Boys

BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND

are set to appear at the Llano Grande Resort in Mercedes January 14 18. Their high-energy stage show remains the heart and soul of what they do best. Their performances will feature classic gospel, country, and patriotic music. The Oak Ridge Boys have one of the most distinctive and recognizable sounds in the music industry. Their string of hits includes the pop-charttopper Elvira, as well as Bobbie Sue, Dream On, Thank God for Kids, American Made, I Guess It Never Hurts to Hurt Sometimes, Fancy

Free, Gonna Take A Lot of River, and many others. They’ve scored 12 gold, three platinum, one doubleplatinum album, and one double-platinum single and have had more than a dozen national numberone singles and over 30 Top-Ten hits. Every time they step before an audience, the Oaks bring three decades of charted singles and 50 years of tradition to bear on a stage show widely acknowledged as among OAK RIDGE BOYS RETURN CONTINUED ON PAGE 2 >>

spend time with friends and family eating large amounts of food and reflecting back upon the year and what blessings we each have been given. With this in mind, Weslaco Museum would like to invite you to join us throughout the month of November at some of the wonderful activities we have planned. These activities would be a perfect opportunity to share some time with the ones you love. On November 19 at 2 p.m., Dr. Irving Levinson will give a presentation on Mexico’s Involvement in the U.S. Civil War. This will be a wonderful presentation covering a lesser-known aspect of the war that divided a nation. The events that occurred during this time have had far-reaching effects that are still being felt today. If you haven’t had time to come and see the awesome art exhibit Dia de los Muertos, created by the students and teachers of Weslaco ISD, you still have time to stop by and see the talent our community has. Our gallery is filled with altars, calaveras, a large Catrina, and many other pieces of artwork unique to this celebration of life. Weslaco Museum is located at 500 S. Texas Blvd. Their telephone number is 956-968-9142. Visit their website at weslacomuseum.org or follow them on Facebook. As always, we hope to see you at the museum (and don’t forget to bring your family or a friend). We have something for everyone. •

A SPECIAL THANK YOU TO OUR 2016-2017 SEASON SPONSORS

November 16, 2016 • • • Welcome

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

Migration Celebration and Scenic Arts Festival at Edinburg World Birding Center

Special to Welcome Home RGV

The Edinburg Scenic Wetlands and

World Birding Center (EWBC) invites the community to celebrate the fall season with an afternoon of art and monarch butterflies during the annual Migration Celebration and Scenic Arts Festival Saturday, November 19, from 1 – 4 p.m. This year, Migration Celebration will highlight the monarch butterfly. Visitors will learn about the imperiled butterfly, the challenges it faces, and the incredible migration it makes every year. Participants can enjoy guided butterfly walks, monarch education stations, show-and-tell presentations, crafts, and games. Free face painting will be offered from 1:30 – 3:30 p.m. Food vendors will also be on site, so grab a bite to eat and enjoy the festivities with your family. The Scenic Arts Festival will run concurrently with Migration Celebration, showcasing the talent of local artists. Visitors can view live art demonstrations throughout the EWBC grounds, including painting, pottery

Welcome Home

WINTER TEXAN

your official connection to the rio grande valley

Publisher

Kristi Collier

kristi@welcomehomergv.com

Sales & Marketing Cheryl Palacios

cheryl@welcomehomergv.com

Administration

making, loom weaving, a stainedglass demonstration and more. Mini-workshops will also be held throughout the event. Bubble painting workshops for children will be held at 1:30 and at 3:30 p.m. Children will create their own artwork on a canvas using paint and bubbles. A cupcake decorating workshop will be held at 2:30 p.m., where participants will learn how to make simple decorations like flowers on cupcakes. This workshop is suitable for children, adults, or families. The fee for each

workshop is $2 per participant. Preregistration is required. The deadline to register for any of these workshops is November 17. The Migration Celebration/Scenic Arts Festival is a free event. For more information or to register for any of the workshops, call 956-381-9922. The Edinburg World Birding Center is located at 714 S. Raul Longoria Road (in the Edinburg Municipal Park). For more information or to register for these programs, call 956381-9922 or visit edinburgwbc.org. •

OAK RIDGE BOYS RETURN CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 the most exciting anywhere. The four-part harmonies and upbeat songs of the Oak Ridge Boys have garnered a host of industry and fan accolades including Grammy, Dove, ACM, and CMA awards. In 2008, they were awarded the coveted Academy of Country Music Pioneer Award. The Oaks have garnered a host of additional industry and fan accolades. October 25, 2015, The Oak Ridge Boys were honored with induction into the esteemed and elite Country Music Hall of Fame. “I feel like I can do what I do on stage just as good now as I could 20 years ago,” said one of the Oaks, Joe Bonsall. “I plan to be rockin’ my tail off out there as long as I’m healthy. The people who come out, who bring their families to see us, deserve everything I’ve got.” Bass singer Richard Sterban added, “I think our stage show is one of the reasons for our continuity. We’re still having fun doing this. We love what we do. Getting on stage and bringing our music to people is still what we live for.” To purchase tickets, call Llano Grande at 956-565-2228. •

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

Amie Gray

agray@welcomehomergv.com

Colette Brookins

colie@welcomehomergv.com

Facebook!

Accounting Matt Davis

matt@welcomehomergv.com

Welcome

Events Coordinator Anne Marie Martin

events@welcomehomergv.com

Activity Coordinator Fran Adams

fran@welcomehomergv.com

1st Responder Coordinator Rita Huether

rita@welcomehomergv.com

Editor

Chris Ardis

news@welcomehomergv.com

Graphic Design

Jenny R Carpenter silentBYTES design

artwork@welcomehomergv.com

Welcome Home

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! •

rio grande valley

219 W. Nolana • McAllen, Texas 78504

956-687-5115 www.welcomehomergv.com

© Copyright 2016 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.

www.facebook.com/whrgv www.facebook.com/wintertexan www.facebook.com/groups/wintertexansrgv

www.welcomehomergv.com • • • November 16, 2016

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

Ranch Potatoes

Serves 4 • 8 small new potatoes, quartered • 1 tablespoon butter or margarine • 1 tablespoon chives

• 3 tablespoons Hidden Valley Ranch bottled salad dressing • Salt to taste

Microwave potatoes 4-5 minutes in a 2-quart microwaveable casserole dish until soft but not mushy. Stir in butter and chives until potatoes are coated. Microwave 2 more minutes. Just before serving, coat with dressing. Salt to taste. 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.

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

Waterford Gardens Hosts

1st Responders and Activity Directors Special to Welcome Home RGV

Waterford Gardens hosted over 60

people for lunch in their gazebo and on their patio Friday, November 4, at their Assisted Living facility, located at 1522 East Griffin Parkway in Mission. Lucille Cavazos, owner, spoke about Alzheimer’s and dementia and how it affects many seniors. She discussed the type of services they offer within their assisted living facility and a helpful checklist to determine when people need assisted living care. Lucille shared her experience and professional assessment options available to us, as her chef and staff served pulled pork and brisket sliders, chips, dessert, and beverages in the lush grounds of their patio and garden. They also provided gift bags for all attendees. We were pleased to hear she continues the summertime service to those within our resort communities who need a check-in, as well as to insure all is going well for them. For more information on their services (including outpatient services), Lucille can be reached at 956-584-5565. Guest speakers were Cynthia Quintanilla from Texas Regional Bank, who discussed a healthcare business or personal account, free from service fees, ideal for the various 1st Responder groups throughout the RGV. The bank has numerous convenient locations to serve us well. For more information, call Texas Regional Bank at 956-682-2265. Clarissa Cavazos, the marketing representative for Dr. James Su, a retina specialist, educated us on the Diabetic & Retina Eye Center services. She covered wet and dry macular degeneration signs, symptoms, and treatment, as well as diabetic retinopathy and detachment disorders and diagnostic technology and treatment. Valley Vitreoretinal

Consultants (Diabetic & Retina Eye Center) is located at 2103 East Griffin Parkway, Suite B, in Mission. For more information and to make an appointment call 956-271-4719. Don Uecker shared information on Donate Life concerning tissue and organ donations and how to become listed as a donor on your driver’s license, as well as with the State of Texas on their website. Cheryl Palacios, sales director for WHRGV, spoke to us about the upcoming Connection Fair and was most helpful in handing out information and brochures about upcoming events. Waterford Gardens presents a Winter Wonderland Lighting Extravaganza during the month of December and provided sign-up sheets for upcoming tours. Schedules of upcoming meetings and tours were shared, along with updated Welcome Home RGV folders with 1st Responder information, including dates for 1st Responder CPR classes. Be sure to sign up for those classes through Rita. •

November 16, 2016 • • • Welcome

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

www.welcomehomergv.com • • • November 16, 2016

City Urges Citizens to Take Advantage of McAllen 311 81,314 calls processed year-to-date Special to Welcome Home RGV

With an average of 399 calls per

day, McAllen 311, the city’s customer service call center, has proven it is a necessity for McAllen residents. This civic engagement tool allows residents to stay in touch with the City of McAllen. Through this easyto-use service, residents have access to important city information and can report issues and track their requests online or via their mobile phones. “The 311 tool is a great asset for providing vital services to our citizens,” said Mayor Jim Darling. “It is also a great way for our citizens to get and stay involved in making McAllen even better!” “McAllen 311 helps take out the guesswork of who to call when you want to communicate with the city,” McAllen 311 Director Marco Tovias said. “Whether it’s a question or a request for service, we can help you get the assistance you need.” Residents in the community with concerns regarding noise, street flooding, or even those pesky mosquitoes can submit those issues (and images) via their smartphones or online at mcallen.net/mcallen311. Or for those who still like to speak to a live person, simply call 956-6813111. Concerns submitted through smart phones are automatically geo-tagged. The relevant city staff members receive this information and resolve the problem quickly and efficiently. Users are able to add comments to further describe the concern they

have reported. Residents can easily track their requests, support other requests, and receive status updates via push notifications from the city. With PublicStuff, an innovative CRM software company, the city is able to manage and improve the efficiency with which they respond to resident concerns. The app also supports multiple languages through the One Voice – Instant Translation feature, enabling all McAllen residents who don’t speak English the ability to access city services and submit requests in their native language automatically from their smartphones. McAllen 311 is a free app and is available in the Apple and Google app stores for immediate use. “Our intent is to keep our busy citizens from having to memorize numbers or keep track of a list of departments and phone numbers. All they have to do is call 681-3111,” said Assistant City Manager Jeff Johnston. “If the call-takers can’t resolve their issue, they’ll transfer them right where they need to go.” McAllen 311 is also supported via the McAllen 311 Information Center. Residents can speak to City of McAllen staff by calling 956-6813111 Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. •

Fausto Olguín Exhibit Now Showing at the McAllen Creative Incubator Special to Welcome Home RGV

Fausto

Olguín magnifies the pictorial exhibition for the second time at the McAllen Creative Arts Incubator. He was born in 1945 and is originally from Mexico City. A passionate and dedicated professional of the Arts since 1970, Olguín, has participated in workshops with teacher Rufino Tamayo, as well as with Master Artist Luis Nishizawa. Olguín’s works have been in a variety of galleries in Mexico City and its region. Olguín is now a permanent resident of the United States and is introducing his work to the general public for your enjoyment. The Creative Incubator has the honor to exhibit Olguín’s artwork for the McAllen community and nearby cities. The exhibition features a variety of techniques, media, and interpretations. Olguín’s work will remain on display

Sacred Visions: Stained Glass Windows Exhibition Closes December 31

Special to Welcome Home RGV

The

20 enchanting stained glass windows in the exhibition titled Sacred Visions: Stained Glass Windows, from the collection of Dr. Lawrence and Mrs. Esperanza Gelman on display at IMAS, will be closing December 31. IMAS hosts the third largest Tiffany Stained Glass exhibit in the United States in a specially designed exhibition space with back lighting and muted overhead lighting, creating an awe-inspiring atmosphere that showcases the stained glass windows. “We have been honored to exhibit the stained glass-window exhibition for many years as a long-term loan from Dr. and Mrs. Gelman,” said Julie Johnson, IMAS president. “All of our patrons have enjoyed this amazing exhibition. This is the second in a series of stained glass displays that has been on exhibition at IMAS. We are thrilled to have met people from outside the Rio Grande Valley who came here just to see Sacred Visions: Stained Glass Windows from the Louis

Comfort Tiffany Studios. This is also a favorite for our local community and schools.” As part of our exhibition closing events, IMAS will be holding a raffle, giving guests the opportunity to learn more about stained glass artwork. The raffle winner will receive a voucher for six guests to attend a stained glassclock workshop at McAllen Stained Glass. The raffle winner will be announced at the end of the reception at IMAS December 29. The Sacred Visions: Stained Glass Windows exhibition’s closing reception is scheduled for December 29 from 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. We will be sharing insights about the Sacred Visions: Stained Glass Windows collection and where it is going next. We invite everyone to see this beautiful exhibition before it is too late. For more information, please contact IMAS at 956-682-0123 or check our website at 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.

H.O.P.E. (Helping Other Patients Emotionally)

until the end of December in the Atrium of the McAllen Creative Incubator, located at 601 N Main Street in McAllen. The Incubator is open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily, and admission is free. All artwork on display is for sale. For more information about this exhibition, please contact the artist, Fausto Olguín, at 956-569-5706. The McAllen Creative Incubator welcomes the opportunity to help artists display their art. For more information on how to exhibit at the Incubator Gallery or Atrium, contact Laura Robles at 956-687-2787. •

Cancer Survivor and Caregiver Support Workshops Special to Welcome Home RGV

Needing some emotional support

and tools for dealing with your own or someone else’s life-threatening illness? Each Wednesday morning between 10 a.m. and noon in Conference Room B at the McAllen Public Library, 4001 N. 23rd Street in McAllen, Project Insight (www. project-insight.net) offers art therapy methods for free to the public. Marsha Nelson, PhD, has coauthored the two volumes of Creative

Journal for the Cancer Survivor and will be presenting the workshops for the month of November. For additional information, please contact her at 956-802-9993 cell/text or by email at marshanelsonphd@yahoo.com. Project Insight is a 501(c)(3) whose mission is to empower individuals by providing physical, mental, and emotional well-being through the offering of creative healing and selfempowering tools. •

November 16, 2016 • • • Welcome

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

Invitation to Become a Texas Master Naturalist by Anita Westervelt, Rio Grande Valley Chapter, Texas Master Naturalist

When

nature is left to itself, a unique ecosystem develops… after hundreds of years, that is. Today, that unique ecosystem is what Texas Master Naturalists learn about and help sustain: the Rio Grande Valley’s native habitat and the critters that depend on it. The Rio Grande Valley Chapter, Texas Master Naturalists is recruiting for the next training class. All Valley residents over the age of 18, including Winter Texans, are welcome. Deadline to apply is December 31 for training that begins January 11, 2017. The cost is $150 and includes textbook, fees, and a oneyear membership. Full scholarships are available. Students attend weekly, Wednesday evening classes in San Benito from 6 to 9 p.m. through April 11, 2017, in the Cameron County Annex Building conference room at Williams Road and Hwy. 83/77. Classes are taught by local university professors, field experts from the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department and the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and other local professionals. The organization is made up of volunteers with diverse interests who are involved in myriad activities to learn about, work with, and help educate others about the special land in which we live. Chapter members join volunteer teams with more than 60 local partners, which include federal and local wildlife parks, coastal naturalist programs, cities, schools, and other public entities. There are hundreds of opportunities, from studying ocelots and other

mammals to joining cuttingedge university studies, developing public native gardens, and working with national programs to save monarch butterflies. If birds are your interest, there’s plenty there, too, with bird habitat in the thorn forests, urban birding, migration, and volunteer opportunities to document and save shore birds and their habitat. The Gulf and beach inhabitants and trends aren’t left out; nor is the great Rio Grande and its evolution. Instruction also includes learning about invasive species that threaten the Valley’s ecological uniqueness. Texas Master Naturalist, with chapters throughout the state, is an educational volunteer program of the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service, Texas Sea Grant, and Texas Parks and Wildlife. Training is region-specific. Agent Tony Reisinger and Ranger Javier de Leon are the Rio Grande Valley sponsors. Rio Grande Valley Chapter, Texas Master Naturalists also offer free PowerPoint presentations to groups on a variety of native subjects and free guided nature tours at Harlingen’s Hugh Ramsey Nature Park. The chapter has monthly guest speakers the second Tuesday at 7 p.m. Meetings are free and open to the public. Visit www.rgvctmn.org for a list of monthly speakers, a gallery of articles written by members, a list of Valley native plant growers, a calendar of field trips, a list of partners and membership, and scholarship information. To speak to a Texas Master Naturalist, call 956748-3190 or e-mail rgvctmntreasurer@ gmail.com. •

www.welcomehomergv.com • • • November 16, 2016

Hot Air Balloon Bucket List…Check by Rita Huether

Ding! The alarm wakes us very early

Saturday, November 5, in time for the South Texas Balloon Festival held at the RGV Livestock Show grounds in Mercedes. The morning session starts at 6:00 a.m., so we are anxious to get there and drive there in the darkness. They noted that if there are winds over 11 m.p.h., the balloons cannot fly, which was the case with inclement weather Friday night. As this is an opportunity of a lifetime and a big checkmark off the bucket list, excitement is high. Upon arriving at the RGV Livestock grounds, all looks quiet, except for the orange-vested work teams streaming from the official building. I, along with a new-to-theValley Winter Texan, head inside for information and to redeem our tickets for a hot air balloon flight scheduled shortly after dawn. There seems to be a bit of chaos as we sign our waiver sheets. An event spokesman tells us that the winds have switched around, coming from the north, and there is concern that the balloons could be carried across the border into Mexico very quickly. Thus, our ride could be a very short one, and they need to discuss options available with a pilot. Four of us are siting at the table checking our phones, noting

the winds are 3-4 m.p.h. However, this wind speed is on the ground, they tell us. A pilot comes over to inform us he could take us all and would stay low for a longer flight and asked if we still wanted to go. The two young men, Carlos and Ulysses, who drove from Laredo are debating, but Nicki and I are all in, with an additional request for festival T-shirts. The four passengers receive instructions from our pilot, Pat Harwell, as we cross the field to the balloons. La Sunrise is one of their balloons, which is red, yellow, and blue. It is seen, tethered; it can hold nine passengers and goes up to 100 feet in the air, then returns to the ground. It’s a majestic sight and draws our attention for many photographs. Maverick is their second balloon, we learn, at a cost of $65,000. It is a 105,000-cubic-foot Lindstrand hot air balloon and our ride for today. As they unpack and stretch the balloon (envelope) out along the ground, with the attachments to the flexible wicker basket (gondola,) laying on its side, we stand back in awe of the colorful Mardi Gras colors of purple, gold, green, and blue being inflated with fans. The burner is positioned and produces a huge flame within the fabric bag that holds the hot

air. When the inside air is heated, the balloon will rise, with the air cooling to descend. Soon the basket is set upright with our pilot inside, while the ground crew is holding and stabilizing him. He hollers, “Come on,” and we dash to the basket to quickly climb in using the foot holes located on the rear of the basket, swinging our legs over the side and landing inside the flexible waist-high basket, as instructed. When the pilot opens the burner valves above our heads, we can feel the hot air extending down from the balloon. With a quick kiss goodbye for Pat’s wife, Susan Harwell, the crew directs the basket skimming the ground to the road, clear of the tethered balloon. With several more hot blasts, we are effortlessly rising to float off into the sky, clearing the buildings, freeway, and town of Mercedes very easily on the light breeze. The effervescent feeling is wonderful, the quiet silence of our flight and morning air awesome. I look over the edge of the basket, and the thought of falling out or the highline wires we see in the distance, are not a worry as we experience the wonders of flight together, cozy in a

HOT AIR BALLOON CONTINUED ON PAGE 12 >>

November 16, 2016 • • • Welcome

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

Antique and Flea Market in Port Isabel November 20 Special to Welcome Home RGV

Sunday, November 20, from 9 a.m.

to 4 p.m., visit Port Isabel for their Antique & Flea Market. The event is held at Beulah Lee Park on Highway 100. You are sure to find dozens of dealers and thousands of deals. The Port Isabel Antique & Flea Market is held the first and third Sundays of the month from November through February (and the first Sunday of the Month from March

through October). Admission is free. For more information, contact Gloria Bates at 956-455-6798. •

MHDBRK00003552

Lance Conn (956) 245-9969

MHSLSP00042265 lconn1968@yahoo.com

Bernie Ohlhauser (303) 204-6028 MHSLSP00043116 amobmo1@gmail.com

We are the #1 Broker of new and pre-owned manufactured homes, with 201 homes and over $4,000,000 in sales for 2015. Serving the Rio Grande Valley from South Padre Island to La Joya. Contact any agent to find out how we can market your home for sale or assist you in finding your new Winter Dream Home!

Rafael Adame (956) 570-3423

MHSLSP00043952 radame@wthsinc.com

Linda Giesen (956) 929-1961 MHSLSP00042363 lgiesen@wthsinc.com

Tim Hoffman (956) 873-9550

MHSLSP00043078 thoffman@wthsinc.com

602 N. Victoria Rd. #3000 • Donna, TX 78537 (956) 782-3587

Cindy Jalife (956) 532-9024 MHSLSP00042704 cindyj@wthsinc.com

Lela Mary Weber (956) 367-2231 MHSLSP00042920 lweber@wthsinc.com

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

www.wthsinc.com

www.welcomehomergv.com • • • November 16, 2016

Oral Rehabilitation & Cosmetic Dentistry

Golf Courses in the RGV • • • Alamo Country Club Golf Course: Accuracy is a Must By Fran Adams

• Porcelain Crown • Zirconia Crowns • Metal Crowns • Full Dentures • Partial Dentures • Partial Plates • Flexible Partials • Denture Relines

• Resin Fillings • Root Canals • Fiber Posts • Implants • X-Rays • Zoom! Whitening • Extractions

US INSURANCE ACCEPTED

Cash • Checks • Credit Cards Accepted

Present this Ad for 10% DISCOUNT Located 1/2 block from International Bridge on left hand side

B. Juarez 229 N. Progreso, Tamps.

US Phone Number: 956-778-8592 • Mexican Direct Line: 01152-899-937-0188

www.juanmcantuchapadds.com

True Comfort! Quality at a Great Price!

TRAVEL TRAILER

Vibe

All of the great features you are looking for in an RV!

Come for yours today! Simplicity! Serenity!

DESTINATION TRAILER

Salem Villa

This trailer is built and furnished to give you the best in mobile home living!

This week’s course is a nine-hole,

private course located in Alamo. It is nestled in amongst the homes in Alamo Country Club. If you are a resident of the Country Club, you are privileged to play golf on this very challenging course. The course was built in 1982 by designer Lonnie Sommers. It has Bermuda grass fairways and Mini Verde grass greens with two sets of Tees. The back Tees are 2216 yards, with a rate of 31.7 and a slope of 112. The forward Tees are 1881 yards ,with a rate of 31.7 and a slope of 98. Par for nine holes is 35. Although this is a short, nine-hole course, it is very challenging for the residents and their guests. Accuracy is a must on this course. The holes meander through the housing addition; therefore, each hole is bordered with out-of-bounds. Bring plenty of golf balls because seven of the nine holes have water hazards. Sand traps bordering some of the greens keep golf interesting. It is truly a challenging course for the residents and their guests.

For additional information, contact the Alamo Country Club at 438 Country Club Drive or call 956-787-0907. •

ALAMO

COUNTRY CLUB

1601 E. Expressway 83 | Mission, TX 78572 (Exit 494 or Bryan Rd)

Call Today for Information - 956-585-4481 COMPLETE RV PARTS AND ACCESSORIES.

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!

November 16, 2016 • • • Welcome

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

Warm Texas Citrus with Brown Sugar 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

Warm Texas Citrus with Brown Sugar

4 servings

• 2 Winter Sweetz™ grapefruit, sectioned • 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks • 2 tablespoons butter, softened

• 2 Texas oranges, sectioned • ½-cup packed brown sugar

In a medium bowl, combine grapefruit, oranges, and pineapple. Transfer to a 1-quart, broiler-safe casserole dish. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar and butter; sprinkle over fruit. Broil about 4 inches from heat for 5 to 6 minutes until sugar is bubbly and fruit is warmed. Serve warm. Winter Sweetz™ Grapefruit is “surprizingly sweet with a hint of zing.”

www.welcomehomergv.com • • • November 16, 2016

Peter/Wendy Plays at Pharr Community Theater Special to Welcome Home RGV

The Pharr Community Theater will

present the children’s/family play Peter/Wendy by Jeremy Bloom. In this lyrical, atmospheric interpretation of Peter Pan, Jeremy Bloom strips the familiar story down to its emotional essence. Peter lures Wendy away from her nursery to the magical world of Neverland, where she joins his adventures with Tinker Bell, Tiger Lily, and the menacing Captain Hook. A low-tech, inventive adaptation that pays homage to the darker themes of J. M. Barrie’s original, Peter/Wendy will mesmerize audiences of all ages. In the role of Peter Pan, 18-year-old Briana Cruz from La Feria says a friend told her about the open auditions, and within a couple of hours, she drove to Pharr and landed the lead role. “Peter Pan is like the symbol of eternal youth,” said Briana, “where he never grows up and everything is like a game to him, taking other kids with him to Neverland so they can also stay young. The rest of the cast is really devoted; we’re all doing a really good job. It’s just a fun play to be a part of and to watch.” Fourteen-year-old Rosario Garcia from Edinburg plays Wendy. “She’s a young girl who does not want to

grow up and, at first, is skeptical about going to Neverland,” said Rosario. “But in the end, she loves it. In order to get into the role, I’ve watched the movie several times, and I practice my lines every day with my brother and sisters, who also have parts in the play. It’s a great show, and we’ve Adan Rodriguez, Briana Cruz, Rosalinda Garcia, Anya Poblano, Rosario been practicing Garcia, and Rogelio Garcia rehearse a scene from Peter and Wendy for a long time. I playing November 17-20 at the Pharr Community Theater. think it’s going to be awesome.” Peter Pan,” Adan said. “I guess he’s Young Rogelio Garcia, also from mad because Peter Pan does not Edinburg, plays a lost boy. “He’s grow up and that kinda aggravates really fun, but he doesn’t have eyes,” him. I’m having a marvelous time, Rogelio said, “and that’s what makes the cast is awesome, and we all get him lost. The other boys have to lead along fine. We want to have fun and, him around. I get into my part by of course, stay young…as young as focusing on my own true friendships we can.” (He laughs) Come and see and my loving family because that’s Peter/Wendy at the Pharr Community what the play is really about.” Theater, an adventure that you’ll The oldest in the cast is Adan never forget.” Rodriguez from Pharr, and he plays Juan Guerra from Edinburg is a Mr. Darling and Captain Hook. “Hook retired fine arts teacher from La Joya is the main pirate who’s always after and is directing the production. “It

Briana Cruz from La Feria will be Peter Pan, November 17 through November 20 at the Pharr Community Theater’s play “Peter and Wendy.”

explores innocence and friendship within children and family, how the parents care for their kids and how they want to be with them all the

PHARR COMMUNITY THEATER CONTINUED ON PAGE 16 >>

November 16, 2016 • • • Welcome

HOT AIR BALLOON CONTINUED FROM PAGE 7 wicker basket, with a wooden floor, two tanks with gauges, and our intense and focused pilot, Pat. He tells us what to expect and where he plans to cross the highline wires but asks us to watch for towers and highline wires too, as 10 eyes are better then two. We can hear people shouting to us from the ground as we wave at them. A dog in a fenced yard is frantically running around below us, which we learn is a common occurrence. As we continue to cross the town of Mercedes, the pilot asks if any of us can run the iPad, which is showing our flight on a mapping app. I take the iPad, as I am the only local person on board who can identify the roads and our surroundings. Our pilot, Pat, shares the history of hot air balloons, which after some experimentation, evolved from the 1800s. We learned that his wife is also a balloonist pilot of 23 years and a record holder for the longest distance flown by a female in a 31,000 cubic foot balloon, as well as a 2nd-place finisher in the North American Balloon Championship in 1996. She was also the first female pilot in North Louisiana. Pat is a 25year balloonist with 3,000 hours flight time, contrary to what he told us before the flight—that he was a beginner with only a learner’s permit! According to

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

the information on the VIP American Escapes Aerosports, LLC cards we received, he is the threetime LA-State Ballooning Champion and two-time SE Regional Champion. As we peer behind us and see several other hot air balloons airborne following us, it’s not hard to respect his experience and knowledge. Pat is ranked in the top 20 balloon pilots in the country as the most senior and experienced in NW LA. They have a private airport in Louisiana at Bluebird Hill, where he also flies powered parachutes. A Balloon Pilot Certificate is issued by the Federal Aviation Administration Pilots must pass a written exam and receive a specific number of instruction hours, plus make a solo flight with a designated altitude and pass their tests with an FAA examiner. The passengers continue to glide along, seeing the city of Progreso to our right and Progreso Lakes in the distance, and ahead, a series of grain terminals. We see the intricate patchwork of various fields, bordered by roads, canals, and irrigation ditches. Pat brings us down close to the ground for a practice landing just above a cultivated field, then opens

the burner valves to ascend again. We see a farmer driving his tractor up the field road and wonder what he’s thinking as he saw us skimming just above his field. As we travel along with sporadic heat-ups of the balloon air for elevation and ascent, we don’t feel the heat from the burners now. Pat advises us to take the “big money shot” on our cameras, as we all look down and smile, aiming the cameras upward and centered, as he turns on the burner and flames shoot upward into the balloon. Our smiles and grins portray the wondrous adventure we all feel for this new experience. Too soon we note the military highway and our pick-up crew, who has pulled off the highway onto the field road. Pat hollers a few instructions to the ground crew. Then we slightly bent our knees as he set us down precisely, with the basket upright and centered on the field road. We quickly scramble over the backside of the basket, then help hold the basket upright and down, as the balloon deflates and is spread out along the road. A large metal piece, much like a stretched-out paperclip, slips along the length of the balloon, aligning and folding it inward for a quick roll-up

back to the attached basket, where it is disconnected and then stowed into a carrying case. We are instructed to jump up and sit, further compacting the balloon. The three-man, onelady (Susan) crew efficiently loads the balloon’s enclosed case, with the tanks and the basket tipped on edge, and slide it onto the trailer--with the burner unit placed separately on the front of the trailer--in fewer than 10 minutes (with our help). We look around at the other balloons, which have landed some distance well behind us, doing the same routine and chuckle at them, as everyone was very concerned about being blown too far over the border into Mexico and the possibility of costly difficulties to return the balloon and passengers to the U.S. We then loaded up into the van for the return drive back to the RGV Festival grounds, where friends, family, and their teammates waited. The other piloted balloons carried their crews for a test run. Some balloons drove north to start their flights, ending where we began. We saw one of these balloons land beside the canal on the bank and were thankful for our flight and this awesome adventure--sharing a huge checkmark on our personal bucket lists. I had wanted to do this for a long time, but we were never in Albuquerque, New Mexico, at the right time in our travels. I recommend you try it as well! •

www.welcomehomergv.com • • • November 16, 2016

Master Gardener Training Special to Welcome Home RGV

Are

you a Master Gardener from another state? Can’t seem to figure out these South Texas seasons? Having trouble with your vegetable garden and other landscaping plants? Well, we have the answers for you! The Deep South Texas Master Gardener Association is offering a Master Gardener training just for Winter Texans. This training program will be a condensed version of the typical training and is designed for Master Gardeners or experienced gardeners from other states who would like to become Texas Master Gardeners and learn more about growing plants in Deep South Texas. The training program will consist of six classes covering topics such as Composting and Soils, Native Plants, Butterfly Gardens, Drip Irrigation,

for Winter Texans

Vegetable Gardening, EarthKind Landscapes, Plant Propagation, and more. The classes will meet every Tuesday, January 17 through February 21, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at the Deep South Texas Master Gardener’s Educational Garden in San Juan, located at 509 E. Earling Road. The cost of the course is $100, and once you have completed the training program and 50 hours of volunteer service, you will be a certified Texas Master Gardener. An orientation will be held Tuesday, January 10, at 10:00 a.m. Applications and payments are due at this time. To pick up an application or for more information, contact the Hidalgo County Extension office at 956-383 -1026 or send an email to ahgregory@ag.tamu.edu. •

HOT Off the Grill: with Sandy Olson

Recipes for All Outdoor Chefs

No one wants to heat up their little

Texas kitchen by roasting a turkey, even on holidays, yet many people never think about cooking that bird on the grill. It really isn’t hard, with a bit of pre-planning, and clean-up is also minimal. The following recipe uses a charcoal-kettle grill but can surely be adapted for a gas-fired grill. If you’re lucky enough to have a smoker…well, that’s a delicious option for another column. •

Grilled Turkey

Place your kettle grill with a leg toward the wind and the cover’s holes opposite that leg so as to create a draft going through. Keep all holes open, above and below on the grill. The kettle must be in some wind but not a “blast.” • 1 turkey (12-14 pounds) • 6 teaspoons kosher or sea salt • 2 teaspoons black pepper.

• 1 stick real butter, cold • 2 teaspoons garlic powder • Olive oil

Mix the seasonings together. Wash the turkey inside and out, removing the bag of giblets and the neck. You can make a delicious broth from these parts and use it for gravy later, if desired. Pat the turkey dry inside and out. Rub a little olive oil onto the outside of the bird. Rub the seasoning mix onto the skin of the turkey; you can also put some under any loose skin. Place the stick of butter in the turkey cavity. Insert a meat thermometer into the turkey breast. Let the bird rest while you are preparing the grill. Light about 40 charcoal briquettes in a pile. When they are covered with ash, move half of them to each side of the grill and place a drip pan in the center. Add 6-8 fresh briquettes to each side and put the cooking grate over the fire. Place the turkey on its back in the center of the grate. Cover the grill, having the holes in the grill cover above one of the piles of burning coals. Add 6-8 new coals to each side every hour during the cooking. Basting is not necessary but you may if you wish, with garlic butter. When the thermometer reaches 175-180 degrees F, take the turkey off the grill and let it rest 30 minutes, covered with foil, before carving. A 12-pound turkey usually takes about 3 hours; a 14-pound turkey will take an additional 1/2 hour or so. Use the internal temperature as your guide. Grilled turkey is delicious, moist, and flavorful. If you want stuffing, prepare it separately in the microwave (again, so you don’t need to heat up your kitchen). 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.

November 16, 2016 • • • Welcome

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

Save the Dates and Come Learn about the Unique Native Habitat of South Texas

Special to Welcome Home RGV

Would you like to learn more about

the native habitat of South Texas while helping preserve and educate the public about the natural beauty around them? If so, then become part of the Spring 2017 class of South Texas Border Chapter Texas Master Naturalists! Training for certification as a Master Naturalist includes weekly (Tuesday evening) classes that meet at St. George Orthodox Church, 704 W. Sam Houston Blvd. in Pharr, from January 10 to April 8, as well as field trips to wildlife sanctuaries and educational facilities in the area. Texas Master Naturalists is a volunteer program supported by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department and Texas A&M Agrilife Extension. Certified members provide education, outreach, and service dedicated to the beneficial management of natural resources and natural areas throughout Texas. To become a member of the South Texas Border Chapter, each prospective trainee must complete 30 hours of classroom instruction taught by local experts from the natural resource community, as well as university professors, state and federal agency biologists and specialists, and nature center staff members. These experts, along with certified Master Naturalists, lead 10 hours of weekend field trips to sites from Starr County to South Padre Island.

Do you plan to make the Rio Grande Valley your Home for the rest of your life? John Knox Village is a resident managed, non-profit corporation.

Where Life is Care Free and Life Care is assured. We offer affordable, luxurious retirement living that includes Guaranteed Life Care when you need it.

Come and see us today!

Call (956) 968-4575 With the guidance of mentor members, trainees are introduced to a variety of outreach activities associated with local youth programs, native habitat centers, and local nature festivals and projects. Trainees develop knowledge and skills in areas of their choice while enhancing an overall understanding of native habitats through advanced training. The South Texas Border Chapter offers workshops, lectures, and training that are not available outside of membership, as well as general monthly meetings open to the public. Membership in the South Texas Chapter of Texas Master Naturalists is open to residents of Starr, Hidalgo, and Cameron counties. Class size is limited to 25 trainees, so applying early is highly recommended. The application and further information are available on the chapter website (southtexasborder.wixsite.com/txmn) or by contacting Becky Reyes, education committee chair, at reyesrebecca52@ yahoo.com. •

to get the details, and tour our 40 acre campus.

www.welcomehomergv.com • • • November 16, 2016

Perspectives

with Chaplains

Fred and Leila Preuss

God’s Purpose for Our Lives

For it is God who works in you, to will and to act according to His good purpose.

Philippians 2:13

received a message from a good friend the other day, which really surprised me because it fit in perfectly with our morning devotional reading. God uses us in one way or another. Oftentimes it is something we don’t normally do, say, or act. Most of the time it is a prompting from the Holy Spirit, to act out of character in order to accomplish what God has in mind for us to do. Sometimes things happen in our lives that seem strange, inconvenient, or downright annoying. It is that moment in time that could have a huge impact in our lives or that of another. If we are really serious about our path to follow Jesus, we need to be prepared to bear the cross and follow Him, every second, every minute, and every hour of the day. Difficult? Of course it is; no one ever said to follow Christ was easy, and some days it is more difficult than others. Whoever does not carry my cross and follow me cannot be my disciple. Luke 14:27.

We have forgotten that we must practice self-denial, humility, and unwavering love for Jesus Christ, regardless of our earthly wants. Society urges us to be pampered. “Do what feels right; you deserve it.” This selfish attitude distracts us from the plan Christ has laid out for us. We need courage to continue on, regardless of the fact that we are human and fall short of the Glory of God. This does not mean that we have to give up every earthly thing that gives us pleasure (vacations, a movie or two, Starbucks, or even a Sunday drive). God wants us to be happy, to enjoy this great Earth He created for us. We just need to remember where our focus is and pray for guidance. Follow His will – you will be in great company. Heavenly Father as we begin each new day, may we feel your presence all around us. May we seek your will in all we say and do, and slow us down enough so that we may hear your still, small voice as you speak to us. We pray this in the name of Jesus. Amen. •

Chaplains Fred and Leila Preuss serve as chaplains, providing weekly food and clothing provisions to approximately 80-100 families living in the colonias in Alton. They are now in the process of raising funds for a simple building in which to hold Bible studies, sewing and cooking classes, and commodity storage to bring encouragement to those living in these communities.

Come Take a Trip Back in Time!

Downtown Harlingen Announces Free Walking Tours Special to Welcome Home RGV

Downtown Harlingen will offer free

walking tours on Saturday mornings this fall and winter beginning November 12 and continuing through March 25, 2017. The walking tours depart from J & B’s Café, 204 E. Jackson, at 9:00 a.m. and last approximately 90 minutes. Participants should wear comfortable walking shoes and dress for the weather. Tours will cover frontier days, Mid-Century boom times, and modern Harlingen. The tour guide will provide insight on nicknames like “Rattlesnake Junction” and “Six-Shooter Junction” and explain how ice made Harlingen famous. Participants will learn which Jackson Street buildings were the mortuary, the Woolworth’s store, the Piggly Wiggly, and more. The tour also includes stops at several beautiful,

larger-than-life-size murals and the city’s smallest park. Even locals will be amazed and entertained by what they learn. The Downtown Harlingen walking tours are free and open to the public weekly, except on the first Saturday of the month, which is Jackson Street Market Days. Special tours also may be scheduled on other days for Red Hat groups, schools, churches, reunions, and other groups and organizations. For more information, contact the Downtown Harlingen office at 956-216-4910. •

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

November 16, 2016 • • • Welcome

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

Doc Laney: Ride of a Lifetime from Wisconsin to Llano Grande Special to Welcome Home RGV

Llano

Grande Resort resident William “Doc” Laney completed a 1,700 mile solo bicycle ride from Wisconsin to his winter home in Mercedes at the Llano Grande Resort and Country Club. A welcome reception was organized by his wife, Marcia, who arrived at the park earlier this month. Doc spent 28 days on the road from Wisconsin, averaging about 70 miles a day. He carried all of his provisions and equipment with him on the bicycle and its attached trailer. His plan included camping 2-3 days in a

row, then staying one night in a motel to get refreshed. According to Doc, “Most of the time, in these small towns, people were friendly, and they would encourage me to camp on their lawns and would open their homes to me.” During the trip, Doc experienced only minor mechanical problems, including three flat tires, until his bicycle’s derailleur jammed into the

spokes of the rear wheel. Stranded on a highway in Oklahoma, Doc called AAA, and the company sent a truck to the rescue. Doc Laney is an avid cyclist, having participated in many one-week excursions over the years. He has ridden across Iowa and throughout the RGV. We are all glad he chose our park as his winter home! •

PHARR COMMUNITY THEATER CONTINUED FROM PAGE 11 time,” said Juan. “We have 12 to 15 cast members. I tell them to live the character, to feel it from inside and to believe they are actually Peter and Wendy and the Lost Boys and to be successful in truly becoming these characters. Children’s theater is very important in the Valley. Some of my cast members have performed in plays in schools and at talent shows and others have not. This is an opportunity for them to learn how to become an actor. The Pharr Community Theater also offers afterschool programs, where some of these kids are taking classes in the Arts and learning about theater and everything that encompasses what an actor does.” Show times for Peter/Wendy are as follows: November 17-19 at 6:00 p.m. and November 20 at 3:00 p.m. Tickets are $6.00 for adults and free for children. The play will be performed at the Elva and Keith Michal Performing Arts Center, 213 W. Newcombe Ave. in Pharr. Tickets may be purchased in advance or at the door starting one hour before show time, upon availability. (Seating is limited to 50 people per show.) For more information, please call 956-600-9463, 956-293-9468, or 956-207-7201. •

www.welcomehomergv.com • • • November 16, 2016

An Evening with FRIENDS at the D From the Inside, Out D

Museum of South Texas History November 17 Special to Welcome Home RGV

Horses to Ride, Cattle

to Cut: The San Antonio Viejo Ranch details “the vast Wild Horse Desert of South Texas,” which is also considered “one of the most isolated and remote” areas in Texas. Both the author and the photographer of Horses to Ride, Cattle to Cut: The San Antonio Viejo Ranch, will visit the Museum of South Texas History (“MOSTHistory”) during An Evening with FRIENDS Thursday, November 17, at 6:30 p.m. Wyman Meinzer spent three years at the ranch, capturing beautiful images of wildlife and working cowboys. Author Henry Chappell details the ranch’s long history with “an outdoorsman’s keen understanding of the natural world.” Both individuals and Neal Wilkins, CEO of The East Foundation, will present their respective journeys from the book’s concept to its publication, followed by a book signing. An Evening with FRIENDS includes hors d’oeuvres and wine and will feature mesquite food products from locally owned Rio Grande Mesquite Company. Books will be available for purchase in the Museum Store and can be reserved in advance ($75 retail/$67.50 FRIENDS’

price). If you are unable to attend, you can still have your copy signed with or without a personal message. Rio Grande Mesquite Company products will also be available in the Museum Store. Photographer and naturalist Meinzer, a native Texan, is the creator of more than two dozen pictorial works, including Under One Fence: The Waggoner Ranch Legacy and Texas Rivers. Henry Chappell, who currently lives in Parker, Texas, is the author of three novels: The Callings, Blood Kin, and Silent We Stood, winner of the 2014 Western Writers of America Spur Award for best Western historical novel. FRIENDS of MOSTHistory must make a reservation, as it is a limited-seating event. Those who are not currently FRIENDS of MOSTHistory who wish to attend may become a FRIEND by visiting mosthistory.org/donate-here. To make your reservation, please contact Cedar Risica, assistant development officer, at 956-383-6911 or e-mail crisica@mosthistory.org. For more information about Evening with FRIENDS, please contact the Development Office at 956-383-6911. •

Everyone Needs a Hobby…or Do They?

by Marge Flados

Hobbies are supposed to keep us

healthier, happier, and busy. I can attest to the busy part; the rest is still on the undecided side of life’s ledger, in my book. I am not a crafty person, but I admit to going through a period where I crocheted rugs. In fact, I have made over 100 handcrocheted rugs. And therein lies a story, I remember my mom making rugs out of rags, which is why they came to be called rag rugs. She used any material from any type of worn-out or discarded garment. When cut into strips and sewed end-to-end, she proceeded to crochet them into rugs. She even used old, worn-out hosiery and made nylon rugs, which could take a prize for ugly but, as she said, “they wash and dry so nice.” But of course I didn’t make rugs out of rags. I used new “rags.” (New rags? That is a contradiction in terms! Where would I get that many rags, anyway? I wear my rags.) I found a place in Hawarden, Iowa, that sold massive bolts of cloth of all colors and textures that had been cut diagonally into big wheels of cloth, which they sold by the pound. So how smart is that if one is a “rugger”? None of this cutting and sewing into strips for me; I had massive wheels of beautiful new material cut to the desired width and color. I would return from my Midwest visits loaded down with cloth wheels that I would crochet into rugs until my next yearly visit to Iowa. My husband kept asking, “This phase will pass, won’t it?” It finally did, but it lasted for 23 years. First I made them for our home, and then I made them for our kids’ homes, my siblings, nieces and nephews, friends, church bazaars, and house warmings. I even made little ones for trivets and placemats. My fingers wouldn’t stop. I was out of control, and my husband said I was suffering from “rug rage.” I made rugs in all colors and all sizes: some were small and some were huge, almost room size. I thought they were works of art. Some I made on a commission basis, custommade to color and dimension as per buyer’s request. My fingers grew so calloused I began to wear gloves so I wouldn’t look like I was a day laborer in a broom factory. I would walk into a room of strangers and fight the urge to yell out,

Marge Flados

“Anybody here want a beautiful crocheted rug?” I began to realize I was hooked. (No pun intended.) I had a dear friend whose home was decorated in the stark simplicity of oriental furnishings, and it was lovely indeed. We were enjoying lunch one day and I said, “Sandy, I would like to give you one of my rugs. I have one in your favorite colors.” She looked at me, her eyes glazed over, and I noticed she experienced a little involuntary shiver. There was a silent moment or two and then she said, “Oh no. No rugs, please.” It was a defining moment. I realized I was out of control, both in attitude regarding my handiwork and its value to anyone other than myself. I also realized one of my rugs would look like a pimple on the nose in Sandy’s house. I am nothing, if not adaptable. I adapted. I stopped buying 100 pounds of rug wheels and lugging them back from the Midwest by car and plane, I put my rug box out of sight, I started looking more often at my sweet husband, for which he was grateful, and I rejoined the human race. I recovered completely. I am hobbyless. But we need to be alert. Those hobbies are out there. They can be fun. They can be beautiful, but sooner or later, after you have filled up your own home, you have to find homes that will accept your overflow. I ran across a leftover rug wheel the other day. It was green (one of my favorite colors), and a feeling of nostalgia swept over me. Then reason returned, and I realized I had a really great source of strips for tying up my tomato plants. I am at peace with that. • M. Flados is a resident of Harlingen and can be reached at nflados@rgv.rr.com

November 16, 2016 • • • Welcome

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

DANCE ENTERTAINMENT & SHOWS

CALENDAR OF EVENTS WEEK OF

November 16 - 22, 2016 WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2016

ter

- the place to party in the RGV!

DANCE

On-line Ticket Sales

AVAILABLE NOW! JAM SESSION

BYOB Bar and Concession Available

Every Friday • Rec Hall

Dance with Sweetwater

November 18 • 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM November 25 • 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM

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

Dance with Pelican West

Saturday, November 26 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM $8.00 pp • Free Ice & Popcorn

FISH FRY

Every Thursday • $9.25 All You Can Eat!

Nov. 17 • 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM Nov. 24 • No Fish Fry

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. • Dance w/Jeff Crocker, 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/Keys & Strings Duet, 07:00 PM, McAllen Mobile Park, 4900 N McColl Rd, McAllen. $5.00 pp. For information call 956-682-3304. Antigone by Sophocles, 07:30 PM, Albert L. Jeffers Theatre, 1201 W University Dr, Edinburg. $10.00 general, $15.00 reserved, box office opens one hour prior to each performance. For information call 956-665-3581.

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2016

Visit our spacious Hynes Event Cen

MEALS

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

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. Jam Session, 01:00 PM, Eastgate MH & RV Park, 2801 E Harrison Ave, Harlingen. For information call 956-423-3137. Happy Hour w/Diego, 03:00 PM, Pine To Palm Resort Park, 802 S International Blvd, Weslaco. Pass the hat, BYOB, Donations for ice & popcorn, soda available. For information call 956-968-5760. Happy Hour w/Lynn Dvorak, 03:30 PM, Paradise South RV Resort, 9099 N Mile 2 West Rd, Mercedes. For information call 956-376-3798. 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.

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. Bible Study, 10:00 AM, AmeriCana RV Resort, 721 N Bentsen Palm Dr, Mission. Held in Lounge Building. For information call 817-219-0333. Garden Walk & Talk, 10:00 AM, Quinta Mazatlan, 600 Sunset Dr, McAllen. $3.00 pp, As every house has a

JAM SESSIONS

KARAOKE DINNER

Every Wednesday • $8.75 All You Can Eat Buffet November 16 • 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM

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

November 23 • No Dinner

KARAOKE

with Harry and Judy Every Wednesday

BYOB, Bar and Concession Available November 23 • No Karaoke

Country Jam, 09:00 AM, El Valle Del Sol, 2500 E Bus Hwy 83, Mission. November, food can drive, Toy drive month of December. For information call 956-585-5704. Craft Sale, 09:00 AM, Green Gate Grove, 700 N Bentsen Palm Dr, Mission. For information call 319-795-8101. 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 956-423-5484. Buckets of Fun: A Bounty of Forest Blessings, 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. Country Jam, 01:00 PM, Blue Bonnet RV Resort, 3366 N Bentsen Palm Dr,

Mission. Free admission, featuring returning favorite Chuck Mathis. For information call 956-585-7630. Jam Session, 01:00 PM, W & I Resort, 206 S Stewart Rd, Mission. All jammers & listeners are welcome, cookies, bars & popcorn available. For information call 612-868-9689. Trail Dance Class, 01:00 PM, Casa del Valle, 1048 N Alamo Rd, Alamo. For information call 956-783-5008. Happy Hour w/Regan James, 03:00 PM, Snow to Sun, 1701 N International Blvd, Weslaco. Pass the Hat, BYOB, free ice. For information call 956968-0322. 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. 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. Acoustic Jam, 06:00 PM, Palm Gardens RV Park, 3401 W Business 83, Harlingen. Open to the public, amplified instruments are NOT allowed. For information call 956-440-8878. Nature Speaker Series: Secretive Animals of the LRGV, 06:00 PM, Quinta Mazatlan, 600 Sunset Dr, McAllen. $3.00 pp, Tony Heneham, TPWD Wildlife Biologist, join our weekly nature speaker series, and explore nature through the insight of expert speakers. For information call 956-681-3370. Grief Support Group Workshops, 06:30 PM, McAllen Medical Center, McAllen. The UT Health Science Center Allograft Resources Bereavement Support Department invites the community to attend monthly grief support workshops, which focus on helping families that need support after losing a loved one or friend. The workshops are free and open to anyone in the community. Register in advance by calling 956-365-8650. Brooks Ausborn playing at The Patio on Guerra, 07:00 PM, The Patio on

www.welcomehomergv.com • • • November 16, 2016

DANCE ENTERTAINMENT & SHOWS 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/Diego, 07:00 PM, Victoria Palms RV Resort, 602 N Victoria Rd, Donna. $5.00 pp. Free ice & Popcorn BYOB Margarita set-ups 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. Antigone by Sophocles, 07:30 PM, Albert L. Jeffers Theatre, 1201 W University Dr, Edinburg. $10.00 general, $15.00 reserved, box office opens one hour prior to each performance. For information call 956-665-3581. 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.

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 2016

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 956682-0123. 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. Happy Hour w/Larry & Mona, 03:00 PM, Snow to Sun, 1701 N International Blvd, Weslaco. Pass the Hat, BYOB, free ice. For information call 956-968-0322.

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. Hamburger Dinner & Karaoke, 05:30 PM, Sleepy Valley Resort, 2301 N Abram Rd, Mission. $6.00 pp, come enjoy a hamburger or chicken dinner and stay for karaoke fun! For information call 956-581-1871. 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/George & The Texas Outlaws, 07:00 PM, Texas Trails RV Resort, 501 W Owassa Rd, Pharr. $5.00 pp. For information call 956-787-6538. Dance w/Hired Hand, 07:00 PM, Enchanted Valley Ranch, 7300 Monroe St, Mission. $6.00 pp, ice furnished, soda & water for sale. For information call 956-874-8674. Dance w/Steven May, 07:00 PM, American Legion Post 37, 1305 E Jasmine Ave, McAllen. For information call 956-682-7841. Dance w/SweetWater, 07:00 PM, BitO-Heaven RV & MH, 1051 W Bus 83, Donna. $6.00 pp, doors open at 6:00 pm, popcorn & soda for sale, BYOB. For information call 603-396-2786. 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. Antigone by Sophocles, 07:30 PM, Albert L. Jeffers Theatre, 1201 W University Dr, Edinburg. $10.00 general, $15.00 reserved, box office opens one hour prior to each performance. For information call 956-665-3581.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 19, 2016

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. Park Wide Yard Sale, 07:00 AM, Dream Valley Ranch Inc, 2401 N Abram Rd, Mission. For information call 956-581-2517. Saturday Morning Breakfast, 07:00 AM, Chimney Park RV Resort, 4224 S Conway, Mission. $4.00 pp, Enjoy breakfast & viewing Rio Grande!

JAM SESSIONS

MEALS

Menu varies at great prices. BYOP. For information call 956-585-5061. Breakfast, 07:30 AM, Aladdin Villas, 1415 Aladdin Villas Blvd, Mission. Choice of pancakes,waffles or french toast and ham or sausage with applesauce and coffee $4.00. Call for more information 612-240-8969. Saturday Morning Breakfast, 07:30 AM, El Valle Del Sol, 2500 E Business Hwy 83, Mission. All you can eat pancakes, choice of ham or sausage, biscuits & gravy, free coffee, please bring table service. For information call 956-585-5704. 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. Craft & Patio Sale, 08:00 AM, Hidden Valley Ranch, 7600 Long Dr, Mission. Refreshments and lunch will be available. For information and interested Vendors can call 956-580-4477. Craft Show & Garage Sale, 08:00 AM, Blue Bonnet RV Resort, 3366

SALES

N Bentsen Palm Dr, Mission. For information call 956-585-7630. Fall Flea Market, 08:00 AM, Pine To Palm Resort Park, 802 S International Blvd, Weslaco. Coffee and donuts served for a minimal fee. For information call 956-246-8375. Bird Walks @ Resaca de la Palma, 08:30 AM, 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. Breakfast, 08:30 AM, Roadrunner RV Park, 1222 N Cesar Chavez Rd, Alamo $5.00 pp, breakfast burrito, juice & coffee. For information call 712-259-2222. 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 hands-on gardening, learn about Valley nature, and earn volunteer service

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS CONTINUED ON PAGE 20 >>

VICTORIA PALMS RESORT

UPCOMING DANCE EVENTS

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

November 17

Diego 7:00 pm • Ballroom • $5.00

November 22

Rewind 7:00 pm • Ballroom • $6.00

November 29

Serjio Sanchez : Ropin’ the Wind 7:00 pm • Ballroom • $5.00

NEW YEAR’S EVE

LIVE SHOWS!

NOVEMBER 2016

SHOWS ON SOUTH PADRE ISLAND Boomerang Billy’s Every Saturday and Sunday 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM (Weather Permitting)

Louie’s Backyard

Come Ring in the New Year w/ Pelican West December 31 • 7:00 pm Ballroom • $25.00 “You are a Star” Photo Booth Hot Hors d’oeuvre’s Concessions Margarita and soda set-ups • BYOB Call 956-782-3263 or stop by.

Every Wednesday Nov. 16,23,30 • 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM Every Saturday Nov. 19 • 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Concert / Show

OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

COMING SOON IN 2017!

The Redhead Express January 20 • 7:00 pm • $10.00 Ballroom • Come party with us!! Margarita and soda set-ups. Free popcorn and ice. Concessions open • Singles welcome

Every Friday and Sunday 6:30 PM - 9:30 PM

Palm Street Pier

Dance at Siesta Village

BYOB • Pass the Hat • No Cover November 29 • 7:00 PM • Weslaco, TX Call today for tickets at 956-696-3558 Available for private parties, dances, and functions at all RV Resorts in the Valley!

956-782-3263

JOIN THE WINTER FUN!

Visit us at

Email LBlasing@rgv.rr.com Or visit www.chuckandleslie.com and www.lesliepresents.com

602 N. Victoria Rd. • Donna, TX RVontheGo.com RVSouthTexas.com

CALL TODAY (956) 761-4347

November 16, 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 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. Christmas Bazaar, 09:00 AM, Park Place Estates, 5401 W Business Hwy 83, Harlingen. For information call 956-412-0375. 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. 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, 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. Entertainment w/Jim Staton, 12:00 PM, Don-Wes Flea Market, 208 N Victoria Rd, Donna. For information call 620-229-4197. 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. 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. 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. Dance w/Diego, 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/Good Times Band, 07:00 PM, American Legion Post 37, 1305 E Jasmine Ave, McAllen. For information call 956-682-7841. Dance w/Hot Rodz, 07:00 PM, Fun-NSun RV Resort, Zillock Rd, San Benito. For information call 956-399-5125. Dance w/Moonlighters Band, 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/Texas Wheels, 07:00 PM, Casa del Valle, 1048 N Alamo Rd, Alamo. For information call 956-783-5008. Dance w/Time Machine, 07:00 PM, Paradise Resort Estates, 301 E Hall Acres Rd, Pharr. $5.00 pp. For information call 956-787-1521. Dance w/Willie Knight, 07:00 PM, Paradise South RV Resort, 9099 N Mile 2 West Rd, Mercedes. For information call 956-376-3798. Dinner Dance w/Hired Hand, 07:00 PM, Sleepy Valley Resort, 2301 N Abram Rd, Mission. $10.00 pp, come enjoy a down home Country Dinner and dance to the local favorite band Hired Hand! For information call 956-581-1871. Bravo Opera: Fall Scenes Program, 07:30 PM, TSC Arts Center, 80 Fort Brown St, Brownsville. Special Event Series, ticket prices vary. For information call 956-882-7025. Antigone by Sophocles, 07:30 PM, Albert L. Jeffers Theatre, 1201 W University Dr, Edinburg. $10.00 general, $15.00 reserved, box office opens one hour prior to each performance. For information call 956-665-3581.

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 2016

Church Service, 08:30 AM, Rio Valley Estates, 715 N Westgate Dr, Weslaco. Leader Tom Cassidy. For information call 956-532-9665.

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, Fiesta Village RV Park, 205 S Stewart Rd, Mission. Pastor Bob Pueblos. For information call 956-585-9264. 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, Southern Comfort RV Resort, 1501 S Airport Dr, Weslaco. Main Hall. 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 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, 09:30 AM, Tropic Winds RV Resort, 1501 N Loop 499, Harlingen. For information call 956-423-5484. Church Service, 10:00 AM, AmeriCana RV Resort, 721 N Bentsen Palm Dr, Mission Everyone invited, Keith & Susan White, Chaplains. For information call 817-219-0333. 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

www.welcomehomergv.com • • • November 16, 2016

DANCE ENTERTAINMENT & SHOWS information call 956-682-7841. Antigone by Sophocles, 02:00 PM, Albert L. Jeffers Theatre, 1201 W University Dr, Edinburg. $10.00 general, $15.00 reserved, box office opens one hour prior to each performance. For information call 956-665-3581. Country Jam, 02:00 PM, Carefree Valley Resort, 4506 N Business 77, Harlingen. Free admission, refreshments served. For information call 956-425-2540. RC Racing, 02:00 PM, Fun-N-Sun RV Resort, Zillock Rd, San Benito. Bravo Opera: Fall Scenes Program, 03:00 PM, TSC Arts Center, 80 Fort Brown St, Brownsville. Special Event Series, ticket prices vary, for information call 956-882-7025. 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.

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 2016

Weslaco Farmer’s Market, 09:00 AM, Paradise South RV Resort, 9099 N Mile 2 West Rd, Mercedes. For information call 956-376-3798. Acoustic Jam Session, 09:30 AM, Green Gate Grove, 700 N Bentsen Palm Dr, Mission. For information call 248-921-6867. 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 956-6619926 or Janet 956-682-8245. Nomad Shrine Club Breakfast, 08:00 PM, Nomad Shrine Club, 1044 W Nolana Ave, Pharr. $8.00 pp. For information call 956-781-1986.

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2016

Park Wide Garage Sale, 08:00 AM, Leisure Valley Ranch, 1920 E Bogey Dr, Mission. Exit Showers Road, left on Western road, follow the signs. For information call 956-589-1879. 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. Ultra Beginners & Beginners Line

Dance, 09:30 AM, Tropic Winds RV Resort, 1501 N Loop 499, Harlingen. For information call 956-423-5484. 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, Octoberfest Celebration, free lunch follows dance. 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. J-5 Jam, 01:00 PM, J-5 RV Park, 3907 N Taylor Rd, Mission. Marion Price, Host, coffee & cookies served, for information call 956-682-7495. 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 famous cake served at half time. For information call 956-585-9093. Amigos de Los Ninos de Mexico Meeting, 01:30 PM, First Methodist Church, 228 S Main St, Donna. The meeting is held to prepare for the Christmas day celebration when gifts of love, food and toys are given to the children of Progreso, Mexico. At the meeting, people can sign up to work on various committees, drop off donated items and get general info. Carol Schnase, Publicity Chr. 956-332-8855. Country Jam, 02:00 PM, Leisure World, 400 E 18th St, Weslaco. Lunch served at 11:00 am at a small cost, music begins at 2:00 pm, for information call 603-770-4406. 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. Country Jam Dinner, 04:00 PM, Canyon Lake RV Resort, 4770 N Mayberry Rd, Mission. For information call 956-580-4545. Jam Dinner, 04:00 PM, Enchanted Valley Ranch, 7300 Monroe St, Mission. Variable cost, for information call 956-874-8674. Conversational Spanish for Winter

JAM SESSIONS

MEALS

Texans, 05:00 PM, Various RV Parks See our Facebook page for details, call 956-681-6707 for location of classes. Country Jam, 05:30 PM, Enchanted Valley Ranch, 7300 Monroe St, Mission. For information call 956-874-8674. Country Jam, 06:00 PM, Canyon Lake RV Resort, 4770 N Mayberry Rd, Mission. For information call 956-580-4545. 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 control your cravings. For information call Carmen 956-884-9909. 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. Rewind Dance, 07:00 PM, Victoria Palms Resort, 602 N Victoria Rd, Donna. $6.00 pp, concessions open, free popcorn and ice. Margarita and soda set-ups available. For information call 956-782-3263. •

SALES

• • • OPEN HOUSE • • •

Hidden Valley Ranch, 7521 Par Drive, Mission, 8:00 AM - 11:00 AM, Large & spacious 2 bedroom, 2 bath home. Separate storage room with additional work-space, standard refrigerator plus washer & dryer & electric lift. Located across from the Community Hall room, park amenities include: Fitness room, pool hall, library, sewing room, outdoor pool, dining/ dancing hall, large kitchen, onsite laundry facility + onsite emergency heart rangers! Come take a look and schedule your showing today. For information call Laura Diaz 956-605-8314.

Raul A. Marquez, M.D. Orthopedic Surgery

2016-2017 Educational Seminars EVENT

DATE TIME

Live Surgery Event......................................11/16/2016 Wednesday......8am -9am Breakfast Seminar Partial Knee Replacement.........11/22/2016 Tuesday.............12pm -1pm Lunch Seminar Partial Knee Replacement.........12/06/2016 Tuesday.............12pm -1pm Lunch Seminar Partial Knee Replacement.........12/22/2016 Thursday............9am-10am Breakfast Live Surgery Event......................................01/24/2016 Tuesday.............10am -1 pm Lunch

For more information, please visit our website:

www.MarquezRoboticOrthopedicInstitute.com or schedule an appointment with us today!

2402 Cornerstone Blvd. • Edinburg, Texas 78539

CALL TODAY! 956.668.0060

November 16, 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. •

1 Pancake 2 Eggs 1 Coffee for

Monday thru Friday 7:00 am to 11:00 am

Expires 11-30-2016

SPECTACULAR SAVINGS

A/C FILTER PROMOTION A $100 VALUE FOR ONLY

1224 E. Jasmine Ave. | McAllen, Texas 78501

956.803.0066

.95

CUSTOM ALUMINUM FRAME & 12 FREE FILTERS CODE: 2142

1 Hour Package Starting at $3700 Have a group of 4 people or 6 people, we can pick you up for no extra charge

Monday - Wednesday 10am - 8pm Thursday and Saturday 10am - 4pm

119 W Newcombe Ave • Pharr, TX 78577

Call Leroy Rios today (956) 475-4342 or (956) 475-4342 (cell) massagemasters87@gmail.com

www.welcomehomergv.com • • • November 16, 2016

• • • RECIPECONNECTION

with

Executive Chef Bettina Tolin

• • • • • • • • Creamy Butternut Squash and Gala Apple Soup 1 medium yellow onion, diced 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 tablespoons pure olive oil or canola oil 2 large butternut squash, peeled, seeded and roughly diced 4 small gala or red apples, peeled, cored and diced ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon ¼ teaspoon ground ginger 4 cups low or no sodium vegetable or chicken stock 1 cup heavy whipping cream Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice French Baguette for serving In a large, heavy saucepan over medium heat, add the oil. When the oil is shimmering, add the onions and cook, stirring until tender and translucent, about 8 minutes. Lower the heat a little and add the garlic. Cook until fragrant, about 1 minute, taking care not to burn the garlic. Return the heat to medium and add the squash. Cook, stirring often, until it starts to soften, about 10 minutes. Add the apples and spices and cook until lightly brown, about 5 minutes. Add just enough of the stock to cover the vegetables and bring 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.

This savory and slightly sweet and creamy soup is the perfect autumn dish.

Sweet-tart red apples are the ideal pairing with the more mellow butternut squash. The hint of fall spices helps to develop the flavors of the soup. When peeling large squash, it’s best to cut it in half at the middle and peel in two sections. A paring knife or Chef’s knife will be more effective than a traditional peeler in this case. This recipe, and most cream soup recipes, call for an immersion or stick blender to bring the soup to its glossy finish. If you don’t own an immersion blender, well, frankly, you really should. In the meantime, you can use a standard blender, in batches. But after enjoying this beautiful soup, do yourself a favor. Get in the car, rush out, and buy an immersion blender. It’s an inexpensive and vital kitchen tool, and you will never regret it. You can even purchase it in the kitchen tool aisle of your local grocery store. Happy cooking and shopping! • to a boil. Once boiling, reduce to a simmer and cook until the vegetables are very soft, about 30 minutes. Remove from the heat. Using an immersion blender, puree soup until smooth. Alternatively, if you don’t own an immersion blender, you can puree the soup in batches in an upright blender. Take care transferring the soup to the blender, as the liquid

will be extremely hot. Once blended use a large spoon to gently stir the heavy cream into the soup. Add fresh lemon juice kosher salt and pepper to taste. Ladle the soup into bowls and serve with a crusty piece of French baguette.

Bon Appetit!

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

November 16, 2016 • • • Welcome

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