Welcome Home Winter Texan : Vol 3 Issue 2 : October 25, 2017 by Kristi Collier

FORE! GOLFING IN THE RGV!

This week features McAllen’s beautiful Palm View Golf Course!

UPCOMING EVENTS!

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

Executive Chef Bettina Tolin shares her mom’s favorite blueberry scone recipe!

Welcome Home See details on page 4.

See calendar starting on page 17.

VOLUME 3 • ISSUE 2 • October 25, 2017

RECIPE CONNECTION! Try this recipe on page 15.

WINTER TEXAN

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

his is my favorite time of year! The excitement in the air is undeniable. Our Winter Texans bring a breath of fresh air to the Rio Grande Valley each winter. Not only do you stimulate our economy, but you add a dash of color and whimsy to our everyday world. It’s hard to believe, but this year, Welcome Home, RGV will be celebrating 10 years of service to the Winter Texan community!! They say time flies when you’re having fun. Well I can attest to that! It seems like just yesterday I made the decision to go ‘all in’ and immerse myself in the Winter-Texan world. Everyone thought I was crazy! And I do mean everyone, including my family and close friends! But I do remember the exact day, almost 10 years ago, when I realized the Winter Texan community needed me. Winter Texans needed someone to help pull everything together and to advocate on their/your behalf. (Some of you were around when it all happened!) I have been guided through the process, gently nudged (and sometimes shoved) in the right direction. It hasn’t been easy, but it has been a whole lot of fun. It’s the overwhelming support from YOU, the Winter Texans we serve, that has kept us going. Ten years is a big deal. We’ll be celebrating throughout the season, and y’all will, of course, be invited to the parties! • We’re just connecting the dots,

Kristi

The Story behind Cappadona Ranch Mesquite Bean Products by Victoria Barrera Cappadona

Cappadona Ranch Mesquite Bean Jelly is created in Linn, which is in Northern Hidalgo County. My name is Victoria Barrera Cappadona, and I am married to Justin Cappadona. We have three sons: Cayetano, 15, Federico, 13, and Vicente, 10. Our boys have helped pick mesquite beans for my jelly for the past several years. We live in a rural area surrounded by brush, trees, and cattle. When I look out my window, I see thousands of mesquite trees. Many of them produce soft yellow flowers. During mid to late summer, our mesquite trees begin to produce beans that eventually develop into pods that can grow anywhere from four to nine inches long and produce a sugar content of up to 30 percent. When pods turn a golden reddish color, they are ready to pick and are delicious to chew. I find myself chewing on them all the time, especially to find out which tree produces the sweetest pods. In the summer of 2012, I asked my father-in-law, Fred, “What happens to all these mesquite beans after they fall off the trees?” He told me, “Cattle and wild animals like to eat the mesquite beans, especially during a drought. Sometimes they eat them from the

ground and sometimes they pull them off the tree.” Fred also mentioned that Native Americans use mesquite beans for cooking because they are high in sugar and protein. My father, Cayetano Barrera, confirmed Fred’s message by recounting how back in the 1940s, he and his siblings would chew on the mesquite bean pods during the summertime for their sweet flavor. He told me they tasted like candy. Genuinely interested after hearing all of these stories, I began to do my own research about the mesquite tree in an attempt to discover what could be made from the mesquite bean pods. I found that mesquite bean jelly and

honey were two of the more popular items to make from the pods. I also discovered the most popular mesquite tree in Texas is the honey mesquite, and that out of all the mesquite trees in the United States, 90 percent are located in Texas. I decided I wanted to try making some mesquite bean honey and jelly. My boys and I gathered mesquite beans from the back yard, ultimately trying a couple of mesquite bean jelly recipes from a cookbook we had found and two others from the internet. I ended up making my own mesquite CAPPADONA RANCH MESQUITE CONTINUED ON PAGE 22 >>

A SPECIAL THANK YOU TO OUR 2017-2018 SEASON SPONSORS

October 25, 2017 • • • Welcome

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

Welcome Home RGV Volunteers

What Would We Do Without You? Special to Welcome Home RGV

uesday, October 17, Kristi hosted an important group at Rudy’s “Country Store” and Bar-B-Q in Pharr. It was the Welcome Home RGV Volunteer Kick-Off Breakfast, and over 30 of our volunteers attended! Our volunteers are the life-blood of WHRGV and help in all aspects of our business. This season, we are celebrating our 10-year anniversary, and it is only through the support of you, our faithful volunteers, that we have been able to grow. For more information on our volunteer program and to get involved, call us at 956-687-5115. We love you, WHRGV Volunteers! We couldn’t have made it this far without you! •

Welcome Home

WINTER TEXAN

your official connection to the rio grande valley

Publisher

Kristi Collier

kristi@welcomehomergv.com

Calendar Submissions!

For more information on submitting your events and activities, please email calendar@welcomehomergv.com. The deadline for submission is Mondays at 5:00pm. •

Weekly e-Blasts

Sales & Marketing Cheryl Palacios

cheryl@welcomehomergv.com

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:

Administration Amie Gray

agray@welcomehomergv.com

Colette Brookins

colie@welcomehomergv.com

Accounting

info@welcomehomergv.com

Matt Davis

matt@welcomehomergv.com

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

artwork@welcomehomergv.com

Welcome Home

rio grande valley

219 W. Nolana • McAllen, Texas 78504

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! •

956-687-5115 www.welcomehomergv.com

© Copyright 2017 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

We Winter Texans!

Calling All Activity Directors Mark Your Calendars Special to Welcome Home RGV

he November meeting of the RGV Activity Director Association is proudly sponsored by Kristi Collier and Welcome Home RGV. The meeting will be held Thursday, November 16, at Snow to Sun in Weslaco (1701 N International Boulevard). Lunch will be served at noon, and the meeting will begin at 1:00 p.m. Reservations are required. (Please note you will not be served lunch without a reservation as food is ordered based on reservations.) Please call the Welcome Home RGV office at 956-687-5115 to RSVP. Deadline to make a reservation is November 13. •

www.welcomehomergv.com • • • October 25, 2017

Theressa Noffke Celebrates 90th Birthday and Birth of First Great-Great-Grandchild Special to Welcome Home RGV

or the Noffkes, family gatherings are no small event. Theressa recently celebrated her 90th birthday and welcomed her first great-greatgranddaughter, Julia Mae Vannetta, starting the fifth generation of her family. Theressa, known to friends as Tress, keeps a record of family names and birthdays in her Bible, which lists the names of her nine children, 44 grandchildren, and 106 great-grandchildren (with even more to come). While some of her family resides in Wisconsin, Pennsylvania, British Columbia, and Toronto, much of her family has also stayed in the Middleville, Michigan, area where they were raised. Tress is fortunate to have one of her sons, Ron Blain, and his wife, Ruth, living in Bit-OHeaven RV & MH Park where she, too, spends her winters. “I love to play games with the kids when they come over,” Tress said. “We get a card game going, and we have a good time.” In addition to raising nine children and several foster children, Tress worked as a nurse and later as a hairdresser. She enjoys cooking, quilting, and tending to her flower

Theressa Noffke surrounded by her children with their spouses; Robert and Connie Blain, Ted and Patti Mager, Donald and Diane Blain, Larry and Christine Lewis, Ralph and Stacey Noffke, Scott and Andrea Noffke, Tim and Joyce Looy, Roger and Nancy Blain, and Ronald and Ruth Blain.

Five generations: Robert Blain, great grandfather, Theressa Noffke, great-great grandmother, Rachel Vannetta, mother, holding baby Julia Mae, Misty Getter, grandmother.

Theressa Noffke

garden. She said she prays for her children and grandchildren every day and trusts the Lord will take care of them.

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

“Kids have always been the center of my life,” Tress said. “It’s been a busy and wonderful life. I’m just blessed to have my family. They are

all honest, hardworking kids, and I’m really proud of them. They’re all willing to help me any time I need help.” •

1st Annual Texas Short Story Competition Winners to Appear at George West Storyfest by Mary Margaret Campbell

Bethune

& Son, a Beeville gentlemen’s clothing store specializing in men’s outdoor and professional clothing, accessories, and gifts, is a community-minded company. In August of 2017, Bethune & Son launched the first annual Texas Short Story Competition. Submitted short stories of 5000 words or fewer had to have a Texas theme, foremost, and contain quality writing that adhered to the short-story genre. Six independent judges were asked to blindly read and score the submissions based on given criteria. After the scores were tabulated, the following writers and stories placed 1st through 3rd place, respectively: Samuel’s Curse by Robert Henry Benson, Brushes with Fame by Beda Israel Kantajian, and Seasons by Rachel Bales. The three top winners received a monetary prize and the opportunity to read excerpts from their winning stories at the 29th Annual George West Storyfest Saturday, November 4. The reading will take place at 1:30 on the TCA Stage.

These stories may also be read on the Bethune & Son website (bethuneandson.com). The stories will be published in an anthology and sold in the Bethune & Son stores in Beeville and Victoria. For more information about Storyfest, including directions, call 361-449-2481 or visit georgeweststoryfest.org. •

October 25, 2017 • • • Welcome

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

Golf Courses in the RGV • • •

Welcome to a New Era at Palm View Golf Course

By Fran Adams

Aiming

to become one of the premier golf courses in the state, Palm View was rebuilt in 1999 by SAJO Construction, the 1996 Golf Course Builder of the Year, under the guidance of the world-renowned architect Charles Howard. During the summer of 2017, Palm View’s greens were resurfaced with Champion G 12 Ultra Dwarf Bermudagrass, a brand new strand of grass known for consistent, smooth, and fast putting surfaces. It’s higher number of leafs per square inch produces less grain and improved ability to sustain a deep green color throughout the year, making Palm View’s greens some of the best in South Texas. The beautiful par-72 championship layout boasts a length of 5,779 yards from the middle tees but can quickly turn into a challenging 6,615 yards if

played from the back tees. It’s wide, generous, and rolling fairways feature “419” Bermudagrass and are flanked by rough and mounds that create a unique links-style atmosphere. Fourteen manmade lakes that provide the golfer with pleasant thrills and some of the most panoramic views in the area further enhance Palm View’s beauty. There are three sets of tees rated for men, with the longest of 6783 yards rated at 72.2/125, the middle tees of 6384 yards rated at 71.2/119, and the shorter tees of 5814 yards rated at 67.6/111. The shortest tees of 4816 yards are rated for women at 67.7/106. This beautiful 18-hole facility is open to the public and offers a practice area that is second to none. The driving range covers 350 yards

The Rio Grande Valley is blessed with great weather, as well as with great golf courses. There is a course for every player, from beginners to accomplished golfers. There are more than 20 18-hole courses throughout the Valley and almost as many nine-hole courses. Some of the nine-hole courses are Par-3, perfect for the beginner and for our older citizens who still enjoy the game but are unable to play a larger course. Some courses are public, and some are private. Visit our website (welcomehomergv.com) for more information about golf courses across the Rio Grande Valley! FORE!

in length, offers 11 target greens, a short game practice area, and a 10,000-square-foot practice putting green. Depending on personal preference and changing wind conditions, golfers can choose from teeing grounds available at both ends of the practice fairway. In addition to these exciting improvements, the new Palm View Golf Course has a fully remodeled clubhouse that overlooks the entire golf course. The Pro Shop is stocked with the latest in golf apparel and equipment and offers a wide variety of products for all of your golfing needs. It is complemented by a dining facility that provides guests with a varied short-order menu and all kinds of refreshing beverages. Palm View offers golfers a fleet of 70 Yamaha golf carts equipped with beverage holders, drink coolers, hinged windshields, and other amenities that cater to any tournament or event.

Carlos Espinosa, director of golf, and Rex Flores, golf pro, invite you to come out and see for yourself what the new facility has to offer. Carlos and Rex hope to see you soon! Palm View Golf Course is located at 2701 S. Ware Road in McAllen. Call 956-681-3444 for a tee time. •

www.welcomehomergv.com • • • October 25, 2017

Meet Lisa and Sara – Midwest Travel Bloggers Special to Welcome Home RGV

Lisa Trudell and Sara Broers are the co-founders of MidwestTravelBloggers. com. Lisa lives in Omaha, Nebraska, and Sara lives near Mason City, Iowa. They are passionate about travel, with a focus on the Midwest. We look forward to learning more about them as the season progresses here in the Rio Grande Valley. They will be sharing their travel adventures with us and showcasing their love of the Midwest. You can learn more about them on their individual websites, as well, The Walking Tourists (thewalkingtourists.com) and Travel With Sara (travelwithsara.com). A fun fact--Sara’s parents, Delton and LeAnn, reside at Southern Comfort in

Make Your Way to the

Harlingen Farmers Market

Lisa and Sara, Midwest Travel Bloggers

Weslaco, and her in-laws, Mike and Alice, reside at Hidden Valley Ranch. If you are traveling to and from the Rio Grande Valley, we have no doubt that they will offer some great stopping places along your route. •

Special to Welcome Home RGV

Every Saturday

baked breads, pickles, flavored vinegars and oils, you can now get Nuts! Dried Fruits! Flowers! Grassfed beef! Produce from new vendors! Micro greens! Raw Xocolati Chocolate! Grass-fed goat meat! And more! Open every Saturday from 3 - 4:30 p.m. at its new location at 2nd Street and Taylor in the Harlingen City Hall parking lot. •

Harlingen Farmers Market is back and is bigger and better than ever! Each Saturday look for more and more produce! Along with our returning vendors bringing vegetables, sprouts, chicken eggs, Mediterranean and Thai to-gos, Wild Gulf shrimp, goat milk cheeses and soaps, lemon sugar scrubs, citrus, organic granola, kombucha, evoo tamales, organic ice cream and sorbets, jellies, freshly

October 25, 2017 • • • Welcome

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

www.welcomehomergv.com • • • October 25, 2017

Dia de los Muertos

The traditional Day of the Dead suggests we engage with the Circle of Life

My late friend Dallas had a healthy

perspective on death. Also known as Nevada Slim, Dallas Turner, who passed on in 2014 at nearly 90, was a singing cowboy and radio pitchman who moonlighted as a mail-order psychic. Though he was not anxious to leave this world, he was excited about discovering the essence that remains when one’s blood ceases to pulse with life. And Dallas promised to return and visit me from the other side. His vow reminds me of the Mexican and Mexican-American traditions of Dia de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead. We all carry in our hearts the living memory of loved ones who have traveled on, but each November 1 and 2, many Texans commemorate that remembrance with elaborate ceremonies and celebrations. They prepare ofrendas, or altars, for the dead that display photographs of the departed, along with items of their clothing as well as their favorite foods and beverages. Celebrants don skeleton costumes, paint their faces like calaveras (skulls), and lovingly spruce up gravesites. They decorate with sugar skulls and the flor de los muertos, or flower of death. Usually marigolds, the flower petals are placed to guide loved ones from the graveyard back to their former homes for reunions with the living. Celebrate death? Absolutely, for as Bertha Zubiate of Presidio explained in a radio interview, in preparation for Dia de los Muertos at Marfa’s Chinati Foundation, the Mexican philosophy

By Gene Fowler

that informs Day of the Dead teaches that death does not represent the end of life but rather the passage through another form of existence. Like the round pan de muertos, or bread of death, prepared for the celebration, the Mexican worldview sees life as circular and never-ending. In her 1998 book, Digging the Days of the Dead, the late scholar Juanita Garciagodoy traces the roots of Dia de los Muertos back to Mesoamerican cultures, following its development through Spanish, folk, and popular influences. Over the centuries, she details a festival in which the Aztecs reunited with the departed, blended with Catholic observances of All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day to generate the still-changing tradition. “It’s important to remember that Day of the Dead is an indigenous celebration of family,” explains Ward S. Albro, an adjunct professor at the University of Texas at San Antonio and author of the 2007 book, The Day of the Dead – Dia de los Muertos, which chronicles the tradition in the southern Mexican state of Oaxaca. “When I first got interested in it many years ago, though it was observed in South Texas, it really wasn’t widely known in Mexico north of Mexico City. Now it’s a national holiday in Mexico, and it’s become something of a tourist attraction in the poorer,

indigenous states such as Oaxaca, Michoacán, and Puebla.” Regina M. Marchi, Latino Studies professor at Rutgers University, notes in her book, Day of the Dead in the USA, that South Texans have cleaned and decorated ancestors’ graves since at least the 1890s, but prior to the 1970s, these commemorations did not generally include such Muertos traditions as creating altars, burning copal incense, and making pan de muertos and sugar skulls. After years of presenting Muertos talks through the Humanities Texas Speakers Bureau, Albro confirms that the tradition has indeed spread from the Rio Grande to the Red. “I’ve drank mezcal in a lot of cemeteries,” he jokes. Tyler, for instance, hosted its first public Day of the Dead celebration in 2016. The 2017 Denison festival and parade, featuring large skeleton marionettes, will be the town’s seventh annual event. Funds raised through the Dia de los Muertos Celebration of Life at West Texas A&M University in Canyon benefit scholarships. Though some prefer a puro interpretation of Muertos traditions, Denton’s lively reunion of the living and the dead has grown to include coffin races since its debut in 2011. The Museum of South Texas History in Edinburg exhibits altars made by residents

and maintains an archive of images and stories documenting the lives celebrated in the ofrendas. In the historic El Paso County village of San Elizario, the Catrina Parade refers to the fancy female skeleton figure created by Mexican artist José Guadalupe Posada, who lived from 1852 until 1913, that has become ubiquitous in Muertos celebrations. “Our Day of the Dead festival also includes La Llorona storytelling, a calavera face-painting contest, and an altar exhibit,” says San Elizario artist Al Borrego. “Every year, someone in our community creates a new altar for a loved one who just passed. The family of another local artist, Manuel Alvarado, found great solace in the ofrenda he created for his son who had been shot and killed.” In the Marfa Public Radio interview, Bertha Zubiate explained that altars often display as many as 20 symbols. The papel picado, colored paper cut with beautiful Muertos designs, symbolizes the air as the souls of the dead pass though the paper. Fruits and flowers represent the earth as well as human origin from, and return to, the soil. Fire lights the way for spirits’ return, and the vital element of water gives life. “We learn about death when he puts his hand on the ones we love,” added radio guest Azusena Nunez, “and that loss is our legacy.” “But nobody really dies,” said radio host Lorne Matalon, “until someone stops remembering them.” •

Gene Fowler is a graduate of the University of Texas and has written articles for numerous Texas magazines. He specializes in Texas history. Gene is a freelance writer. NOTE: Welcome Home RGV personnel first saw this article in Texas Co-Op Power, a magazine for members of Texas electric cooperatives. We liked it so much that we contacted Gene, seeking permission to publish it in Welcome Home Winter Texan. He responded quickly, granting us permission, and we are thankful!

Scenic Arts Festival November 4 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 during the annual Scenic Arts Festival Saturday, November 4, from 1 – 5 p.m. The Scenic Arts Festival showcases the talent of local artists in the scenic and natural setting of the EWBC. Visitors can view live art demonstrations throughout the grounds, including pottery making, wool spinning and weaving, glass blowing, quilting, and more. Art installations created by University of Texas Rio Grande Valley art students will also be on display. Visitors can enjoy live music, poetry readings, and live performances, including a performance by the Colibri Children’s

Choir. New this year is a Scarecrow Trail. Scarecrows created by various organizations will be displayed throughout the grounds. The Scarecrow Trail kicks off during the

Scenic Arts Festival, and visitors are invited to vote for their favorite. The scarecrows will remain on display throughout the month of November. Mini-workshops will also be held during the event. A cookie-decorating

workshop, where participants will learn how to decorate cookies for the holidays, will be held at 2 p.m. A bubble-painting workshop for children will be held at 3 p.m. Children will create their own artwork on a canvas using paint and bubbles. At 4 p.m., learn how to make holiday wreaths during a wreath-making workshop. Pre-registration is required by November 2 for any of these workshops. Please call ahead for fees. The Scenic Arts Festival is a free event. For more information or to register for any of the workshops, call 956-381-9922 or visit www. edinburgwbc.org. The Edinburg World Birding Center is located at 714 S. Raul Longoria Road in the Edinburg Municipal Park. •

October 25, 2017 • • • Welcome

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

Like It Hot Historic Champion Building Some with Junior League of McAllen, Inc. Fish Mural Restoration Ceremony

Special to Welcome Home RGV

Texas-Size Biscuits Yield: 12-14 biscuits • 3 cups flour • 2 tablespoons sugar • 4 ½ teaspoons baking powder • ¾ teaspoon cream of tartar

• ¾ teaspoon salt • ¾ cup shortening • ¾ cup milk • 1 egg, beaten

Preheat oven to 450 degrees. Special to Welcome Home RGV

The City of Port Isabel, Port Isabel Economic Development Corporation, and the Museums of Port Isabel cordially invite you to an unveiling of the newly restored Fish Mural on the historic Champion Building. At 7:00 p.m. There will be a Champion Building Fish Mural Ceremony featuring a brief history of the project, acknowledgement of the fish sponsors and other partners, and the ribbon cutting by the Port Isabel Chamber of Commerce. A reception will be held 7:30 - 9:00 p.m. in the Champion Building and on the top gallery including hors d’oeuvres and drinks. A 14 x 6’ mural of the Champion Building Fish Mural will be installed in the gift shop area of the Champion Building that will feature the donor plaques. •

RSVP REQUIRED.

Museums of Port Isabel • 317 E. Railroad Ave. • Port Isabel, Texas 78578 Please RSVP by October 25 by calling 956-943-7602, by email at museumdirector@copitx.com, or online at http://bit.ly/champfish.

Combine flour, sugar, baking powder, cream of tartar, and salt; cut in shortening. Add milk and egg; stir until moist. Knead 8 or 10 times on lightly floured surface. Roll dough to ¾ inch thickness. Cut with biscuit cutter. Place on ungreased cookie sheet and bake 12-15 minutes. 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.

Texas Caviar

“A GREAT Happy-Hour Recipe” Submitted by Angela J. Riley-Blanchard Port Isabel Park Center

Texas Caviar Bring these ingredients to a boil and cool: • ¾ cup cider vinegar • ½ cup vegetable oil • 1 Tbsp. water • 1 cup sugar Meanwhile, drain and rinse 1 can of each: • Shoepeg white corn • Pinto beans • Black-eyed peas • Black beans Dice: • 1 small green pepper • 2 stalks celery • 1 small onion Mix it all together and serve with scoops tortilla chips. ENJOY!

www.welcomehomergv.com • • • October 25, 2017

Perspectives with Robert N. Ruesch

If You Could Go Back in Time, What Would You Tell Yourself?

Have you ever made a wrong turn

in your RV? Have you ever wished you could go back in time and change something you said or did? Here is something to think about: If you could go back in time, knowing what you know now, what would you tell your younger self? What would you change? What direction, turn, or different road would you decide to take? All of our past memories and experiences shape who we are today, and the past cannot be changed, yet we can work on today and tomorrow. Many times we don’t or cannot forgive ourselves for what we have done in the past, but Jesus already has. The history is forgotten “as far as the east is from the west.” The apostle, Peter, said he would never deny Christ and so stated

that during the Last Supper, yet he denied Him not once but three times! (Matt 26:69-75). Imagine Peter’s feelings of regret, sorrow, and abject emotion after rejecting the one who was sent to teach and save him and the world. Here is where the grace and mercy of Jesus come into the clarity of focus. Jesus gave Peter three other occasions to publicly express his love for Jesus, which is recorded in the gospel of John. If Peter found a way forward, we can, too. Wrong turns in the RV, wrong decisions in our lives, words said in anger and without thinking--they are all regrets we live with, but if Jesus forgives us for ALL of our sins, we can forgive ourselves, too. Think about that. You are a child of God. •

Robert N. Ruesch is a journalist, author, and chairman of the board of Christian Resort Ministries, which places chaplains in RV resorts in Texas and several other states. If you are interested in a chaplaincy position, go to the website (www.crmintl.org) for more information.

Hooks and Needles and Looms, Oh My! Special to Welcome Home RGV

We often get asked what the Lamb’s Loom is all about, so here ya go! Sending prayers and hugs, along with our knitting/crocheted items, is at the heart of all we do here at The Lamb’s Loom! The Lamb’s Loom is a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit prayer-shawl ministry, and we opened a yarn shop just over three years ago, as an extension of this ministry, to help fund all that goes on around here! We work with various missionaries around the world to provide prayer shawls, hats, and scarves. We specialize in FUN, too! Our “sit-n-knit” room is available for y’all to come by and chillax! There are also classes in loom knitting, needle knitting, and crochet available to everyone. One of our goals is to help grow the love of crafting among the next generation so they will be encouraged to give and serve others. And, of course, everyone loves to bring projects for show-and-tell and just, in general, to have fun! The shop portion is growing daily with shipments of yarn and notions. We also have handcrafted gifts for sale by some very wonderful consignment friends. Everyone is welcome to join in! The Lamb’s Loom is located at 1209

Maricella

Pecan in McAllen, just inside JacLin’s Florist. The shop is a Christianbased business, not affiliated with any particular church or denomination. We believe in love, laughter, and living life to the fullest as we serve others. You can also find us on Facebook or give us a call at 956-607-6855. We are open Wednesday and Saturday 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. and Thursday and Friday from 10 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. •

October 25, 2017 • • • Welcome

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

Chapins Celebrate 50th Anniversary at Winter Ranch RV Resort Special to Welcome Home RGV

donations to the Valley. Winter Ranch RV Residents come from Resort managers Larry many states and many and Cathy Chapin Canadian provinces. celebrated their 50th Our resort has full-time anniversary October residents, six-month 14 with family, residents, and some who friends, and Chamber stay only for the winter representatives. The season. This group of Chapins have long been civic-minded people supporters of the City dedicates a large portion of Alamo and the Rio of their time and money Grande Valley. Cathy to local causes and has served on the Alamo serve as ambassadors Chamber of Commerce for the Rio Grande Board of Directors Editor’s Note: and volunteered for Happy 50th anniversary to Larry Valley as they return to a school reading and Cathy from everyone at their home states. Home RGV! Thank you Winter Ranch program. The Alamo Welcome for inspiring so many people! residents are great Chamber of Commerce recognized them with a Certificate of community supporters, as evidenced by these projects: Achievement. The Chapins’ leadership has 259 Christmas Stockings were developed a nucleus of civic-minded filled and delivered to local children, Winter Texans and year-round each valued at $15. residents dedicated to helping their Over 200 bunk beds were made for community. Winter Ranch RV Resort, children in Mexico in 2016-2017. under the Chapins’ direction, has Quilters have given 181 quilts to sponsored ambassadors for the City children at Easter Seals and 87 to of Alamo--Winter Texans who reside babies in McAllen hospitals. A total in their park. These ambassadors of 350 quilts were donated by Winter promote Alamo at RV rallies in Ranch residents last year. Our church group has donated Indiana, Iowa, and Minnesota. Almost 200 residents attended the over $3,000 to Arise and Outcry in anniversary celebration. In lieu of the Barrio. (Arise is a communitygifts, the Chapins requested donations based program that works with to their favorite charity, Safe Haven colonia families to strengthen their for Kids, an emergency shelter communities, and Outcry in the serving the Rio Grande Valley. The Barrio is a religious organization in organization’s mission is described Pharr that offers free, inpatient help as follows: “Safe Haven for Kids is to men battling addiction and helps an Emergency shelter for children in them develop the skills they need to need of immediate protection due assimilate in their communities once to being removed from their home they are ready to leave.) because of abuse, neglect, and/or Our crochet group donated over abandonment.” Friends gathered 161 afghans to the fire department, and brought diapers, clothing, books, Arise, 1st Responders, and various food, monetary donations, and other groups, with a total value of $1525. items needed for the children. Safe 1st Responders – Our volunteers on-call service seven Haven for Kids is a nonprofit, 501(c) provide (3) organization. You can contact days a week and provide Air Evac them on Facebook or by calling 956- membership to all residents during their stay in the Valley. 515-KIDS. Arise – We have a donation box More on Winter Ranch During the 2016-2017 Winter available for residents. We collect Texan season, Winter Ranch residents clothing, furniture, kitchen supplies, contributed over $200,000 in and other items. •

MHDBRK00003552

We are the #1 Broker for new and pre-owned manufactured homes, with to-date 1,220 homes and $28,184,157 in sales. 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!

Linda Giesen........................................(956) 929-1961 Tim Hoffman.......................................(956) 873-9550 Cindy Jalife...........................................(956) 532-9024 Rafael Adame.......................................(956) 570-3423 Lance Conn..........................................(956) 245-9969 Bernie Ohlhauser.................................(303) 204-6028 Robby or Winona Hood......................(956) 369-1882 Bonnie Dominguez..............................(956) 434-6112 602 N. Victoria Rd. #3000 • Donna, TX 78537 (956) 782-3587

www.wthsinc.com

www.welcomehomergv.com • • • October 25, 2017

Randy Hoelscher: The Border Cook Grilled Drunken Shrimp Skewers Special to Welcome Home RGV

OK, this is a very simple recipe that is easy to prepare and very good. In

Spanish, the word borracho means drunk, and drunken shrimp are camarones borrachos. I’ve seen the “drunken” label applied to many recipes where alcoholic beverages are used in cooking. This recipe involves marinating raw shrimp in beer – thus the drunken label. The basic process is to marinate raw shrimp in beer, minced garlic, and lime juice. They are then skewered and grilled.

Jeff and Ona moved to Snow to Sun RV Park in April 2016. Jeff now works as an activities assistant maintaining contact with residents, making sure the park is neat and clean, and ensuring everyone is glad to be here.

Veteran Served Several Roles in the U.S. Army by Jess Merrill, Snow to Sun RV Resort

One of the things that convinced Jeff and Ona Gray to retire at Snow to Sun RV Resort was the mix of wonderful people. “There are Hispanics, people from Asia, South America, and many other places you would never think of,” Jeff said. “This is a delightful melting pot. We also liked the idea of a gated, 55+ park not far from the beaches of the Gulf Coast.” In 1972, Jeff enlisted in the Army. He had a lifelong love of working with animals and the Army recruiter promised him a position as a veterinary technician. After completing his vet tech training at Walter Reed, Jeff was assigned various missions working with small animals, first at Fort Knox, then Seoul, South Korea, where he served 13 months, and then Ft. Monmouth, New Jersey. However, as a vet tech, promotions were hard to come by, so when the opportunity arose, he switched his MOS (Military Occupational Specialty) to heavy equipment operator and was quickly promoted. Heavy equipment appealed to Jeff because, after high school, his first job was working with the West Virginia Department of Transportation, Division of Highways. After eight weeks of training at Ft. Leonard Wood, Missouri, he was transferred to the 155th Engineering Battalion at Ft. Eustace, Virginia. He became a squad leader in charge of bulldozers, front-end loaders, and other heavy equipment. He stayed in this position for eight months, completing his military obligation. Jeff then reentered civilian life with a position at Corning Glass Works where he worked until the economy collapsed in 1982. After being unemployed nearly a year, Jeff reenlisted in the Army, and

Grilled Drunken Shrimp Skewers • 1 – 12-ounce bottle of Mexican beer (I used Miller Lite beer because I did not have any Mexican beer.) • 3 cloves of minced fresh garlic • 2 Tbsp. of fresh lime juice – about 1 large lime • 1 lb. large shrimp - peeled and deveined • Vegetable oil for brushing • Salt and pepper to taste • Crushed red pepper (optional) • Wooden skewers – soaked in water for about an hour • Cilantro, jalapeño peppers, hot sauce, or squeezed lime juice, if desired

Place the peeled and deveined shrimp in a gallon storage bag with the minced garlic, lime juice, and beer. Place in a refrigerator for a couple of hours or longer. Heat your grill to medium heat Thread the shrimp onto the skewers. Do not crowd them. Sprinkle the shrimp with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (optional). Brush the skewered shrimp with cooking oil and place on the grill. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side or until shrimp are opaque and have good grill marks. Serve with cilantro, jalapeño peppers, hot sauce, or squeezed lime juice. This goes well with Mexican rice and charro beans. Since this recipe is short and easy, here is an extra tip for storing fresh peppers. October 1, I bought several jalapeño peppers. I placed several in a brown paper bag and put them in the refrigerator. At the same time, I placed a few on a plate on our kitchen counter. The peppers on the counter turned red and began to rot within five days. The peppers in the refrigerator, although the skins shriveled a bit, were still crisp and usable 12 days later. Enjoy! Buen apetito! • Randy Hoelscher is a transplanted Texan and half-time RGV resident. A long time cooking enthusiast, he enjoys being “The Border Cook” and spreading the word about Mexican and TexMex Cuisine on his web site - TheBorderCook.com - as well as on social media.

again changed his MOS to become a technician in Explosive Ordinance Disposal (EOD), the Army’s version of the bomb squad. This marked his favorite assignment with the U.S. Army. He was stationed at Ft. Leonard Wood, Missouri, but his team worked throughout the eastern U.S. One assignment, for example, took him to a small county sheriff’s office in the boot heel of Missouri. A farmer had plowed up a World War I explosive projectile left over from what had been a military artillery site. The county sheriff collected the device, deposited it into an empty file drawer in his office, and then contacted the Army. Jeff’s team was assigned to take care of the problem. Upon arrival, the sheriff took them into his office, opened the file drawer, and showed them the rusted device. Jeff and his partner took a giant step back and said, “Uh, Sheriff, we’re going to have to blow that up in place.” The suddenly worried sheriff said, “Oh no! This is my evidence room; you can’t blow up my evidence room.” After greatly feigned deep thought (while trying to control convulsive laughter), Jeff said, “Well, we could rig a pulley system and gently lift it through that window over there, but it could explode at any time.” The shaky sheriff said, “Whatever you do, please don’t blow up my evidence room.” While having a little fun with the unsuspecting lawman, they safely disposed of the dangerous antique device. In 1987, Jeff left the Army for good and went back to work for Corning Glass, Inc. in Parkersburg, West Virginia. He stayed 18 years before retiring and moving to Texas. •

October 25, 2017 • • • Welcome

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

www.welcomehomergv.com • • • October 25, 2017

Texas Tropical Trail Region 143rd Monthly Partner Event

Rio Grande City

1. Exterior of the San Jose de la Mulada Ranch Museum, created by Araceli Perez Davis from an adobe building built in 1890. The museum is filled with family relics. 2. The trolley, Bessie, owned by the City of Rio Grande City, shown as it left San Jose de la Mulada Ranch. The trolley is also available for various tours around town. 3. Interior of the San Jose de la Mulada Ranch Museum 4. Exterior of the historic La Borde House Hotel as seen on Main Street and Business Highway 83 East 5. Rear courtyard of La Borde House Hotel, where we had lunch 6. & 7. Guest rooms at La Borde House Hotel 8. First Floor Parlor - La Borde House Hotel 9. Interior of Kelsey-Bass Museum & Event Center, 101 S. Washington in Downtown Rio Grande City

10. Araceli Perez Davis of San Antonio, owner of the San Jose de la Mulada Ranch in Starr County near Rio Grande City, telling us the history of the ranch. This ranch has been owned by her family since 1787.

October 25, 2017 • • • Welcome

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

United Way and FamilyWize Partner to Save Individuals Money on Prescription Medications Special to Welcome Home RGV

FamilyWize, a community partnership, has negotiated with more than 60,000 pharmacies nationwide to reduce the cost of prescription medications for families and individuals with or without insurance. Last year, FamilyWize and United Way of South Texas helped 7,926 individuals save $637,642 through the free prescriptiondiscount card. This service is free to everyone and easy to use. For fast access to this card, you can download the free mobile app, print the card at familywize.org, or text the word “family” to 700700. You may also request the card in person at United Way of South Texas, 113 W. Pecan Boulevard in McAllen. •

Looking for New Amigos Special to Welcome Home RGV

Amigos, officially Amigos de Los Ninos de Mexico, has been celebrating Christmas with the children of Nuevo Progresso, Mexico, every year since 1990, bringing donated candy and food to approximately 2500 children who might not otherwise have a Christmas. The group’s members are mostly Winter Texans, staying in cities from South Padre Island to Mission, and Rio Grande Valley residents, including many former Winter Texans. Amigos operates on the donations received throughout the year. Items needed include crayons (24-count), one-subject ruled notebooks, #2 unsharpened pencils, small stuffed toys, and any toys for boys and girls from 0-12 years old. Many people collect these items during the summer and bring them with them when they return to the Valley. We’re always looking for new Amigos. It’s not hard; it is a shortterm volunteer job that is so rewarding. Give Ted and Carol a call at 956332-8855 if you are interested in knowing more about Amigos or if you need Amigos to pick up donated items. •

Send Us Your Stories

Special to Welcome Home RGV

Would you like to see stories in Welcome Home Winter Texan about YOUR RV park/resort, YOUR events for retirees, or nonprofit organizations in YOUR community? Send stories and pictures to us at: news@welcomehomergv.com.

It’s as simple as that! Thank you! •

United Way of South Texas invests in programs that address critical services in the areas of health, education, financial stability and safety net. We support over 21 nonprofit agencies in Hidalgo and Starr counties that serve a minimum of 265,000 local residents annually. Services provided to communities include shelter for victims of domestic violence and the homeless, disaster relief, end-oflife care, information and referral services, consumer education, job training for people with disabilities, counseling to those affected by alcohol or drug abuse, basic necessities for the elderly or disabled, character-building programs for children, child-victim advocacy, and infant stimulation classes. Please call 956-686-6331 or visit us at unitedwayofsotx. org or voluntersotx.org if you are interested in getting your company involved with the 2017 Campaign or in volunteering. If you would like to support our programs with a monetary donation, you may mail a check to United Way of South Texas at P.O. Box 187, McAllen, TX 78505-0187.

Award-Winning Hank Williams Tribute Artist Coming to Harlingen Special to Welcome Home RGV

Enjoy

a nostalgic look at the legendary Hank Williams and his influence on country music in a wonderful performance by ObieAward-winning singer/actor Jason Petty. Petty will bring Williams’ music back to life at the Harlingen Municipal Auditorium January 27, 2018, in his tribute show, Hank and My Honky Tonk Heroes. This musical revue is one of six upcoming shows in the Harlingen Concert Association’s 2017-18 season. HCA 2017-18 season tickets are now on sale at the Municipal Auditorium, 1204 Fair Park Boulevard in Harlingen, and online at harlingenconcert.com. Jason Petty, a Tennessee native, began portraying country music legend Hank Williams in 1996 at the world-famous Ryman Auditorium in Nashville. Since that time, he has dazzled audiences in theatres across the United States, Canada, and Europe. “He’s got the look, the charm, the wit … and most of all … he’s got the voice and the talent,” said Don

Helms, original member of Hank Williams’ band. “Every music fan will love this show.” Hank and My Honky Tonk Heroes also has earned rave reviews from major critics, including the New York Times, Variety, and Rolling Stone. As stated in the New York Post, “At times it seems as if Petty is not just offering an impersonation of Williams, but channeling his ghost.” Jason Petty also pays tribute to other icons of country music, including Jimmie Rodgers, Roy Acuff, Ernest Tubb, and The Carter Family. For more information on this and other Harlingen Concert Association performances, go to harlingenconcert.com. •

www.welcomehomergv.com • • • October 25, 2017

This Week’s Recipe is Brought to You By:

• • • RECIPECONNECTION • • •

Bon Appetit!

with Executive Chef

Bettina Tolin

Gloria’s Favorite Blueberry Scones

I’ve

been a little obsessed with scones lately and I don’t know why. I think it’s the texture and the fact that they are slightly moist but are not too sweet. And also that they aren’t exactly EASY to make so when they turn out perfectly, it is such a special treat and gift to yourself and your loved ones. Trust me, you really do owe it to yourself to master the art of the scone. The key is to not over mix or knead the dough. Just mix enough to barely combine it. Here is a fool proof and easy recipe for lovely blueberry scones (my mom Gloria’s favorite). If you would rather try a different variety, feel free to substitute the blueberries for cranberries (and add a little orange zest too) or maybe even chocolate chunks. All scones are fabulous in my world! • 2 cups all-purpose flour 1 tablespoon baking powder 1/2 teaspoon salt 2 tablespoons sugar 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, cold, cut in pieces 1 cup fresh blueberries 1 cup heavy cream, plus more for brushing the scones

Lemon Glaze 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice 2 cups confectioners’ sugar, sifted 1 tablespoon unsalted butter 1 lemon, zest finely grated

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. Sift together the dry ingredients; the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar. Using a pastry blender (or two forks), cut in the butter to coat the pieces with the flour. The mixture should look like coarse crumbs. Gently fold the blueberries into the batter. Take care not to smash or break the blueberries or their color will bleed into the dough. Make a well in the center and pour in the heavy cream. Fold everything together just to incorporate; do not overwork the dough. Press the dough out on a lightly floured surface into a rectangle about 12 by 3 by 1 1/4 inches. Cut the rectangle in 1/2 then cut the pieces in 1/2 again, giving you 4 (3-inch) squares. Cut the squares in 1/2 on a diagonal to give you the classic triangle shape. Place the scones on an ungreased cookie sheet and brush the tops with a little heavy cream. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes until lightly golden brown. Let the scones cool a bit before brushing on the glaze. Mix the lemon juice with the confectioners’ sugar until dissolved in a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water (double-boiler). Whisk in the butter and lemon zest and continue whisking in the double boiler. Whisk the glaze to smooth out any lumps and then drizzle the glaze over the scones. Allow to set a minute before serving. •

• • • • • • •

Bettina Tolin is a graduate of Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts in Austin Texas. She has cooked in the kitchens of the Ritz-Carlton Amelia Island, Florida. She is currently the Executive Chef and General Manager at Marcello’s Italian Restaurant and Bar on the Piazza in Port Isabel, Texas

October 25, 2017 • • • Welcome

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

www.welcomehomergv.com • • • October 25, 2017

DANCE ENTERTAINMENT & SHOWS

CALENDAR OF EVENTS WEEK OF

October 25 - 31, 2017 WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2017

Bird & Nature Walk, 08:30 AM, McAllen Nature Center, 4101 W US Highway 83, McAllen. Join a staff naturalist for a 1/2 mile walk to explore birds, butterflies, plants, and whatever else happens to cross our path! No experience necessary! Admission is a $1/person suggested donation. Public programs are provided free of charge. For information call 956-681-3333. Volunteer Program, 08:30 AM, Quinta Mazatlan, 600 Sunset Dr, McAllen. Free Admission, Join other caring community members that contribute back to the earth, on any Wednesday or Saturday morning from 8:30 am to noon. Work outside in the gardens, inside with program preps, or assist at a special event. All ages welcome. For information call 956-681-3370. Exhibition American Impressionism: The Lure of the Artist’s Colony, 09:00

JAM SESSIONS

MEALS

SALES

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

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

AM, International Museum of Art & Science, 1900 W Nolana Ave, McAllen. IMAS is pleased to present American Impressionism: The Lure of the Artist’s Colony, an exhibition featuring the stellar collection of works by American Impressionists from the Reading Public Museum in Pennsylvania. For information call 956-681-2800. Exhibition: Love of Life & Landscape, 09:00 AM, International Museum of Art & Science, 1900 W Nolana Ave, McAllen. $7.00 pp, As part of the commemoration of the 50th anniversary of IMAS, the exhibition Love of Life and Landscape: The Art of E.E. Nichols commemorates the major contribution the artist made during his life to the culture of his home town. For information call 956-681-2800. Free Motion Quilting, 10:00 AM, A Block Away Quilt Shop, 2706 N

10th St, McAllen. Level: Confident Beginner through Experienced Quilters. Learn to quilt swirls, circles, waves and many other designs using your own sewing machine. What looks complicated will become easy with helpful tips and hints. With a little practice you will soon find that you can quilt your quilting projects like a professional. Join us and learn how! $55/person, includes lunch; Instructor: Jean Waufle. For information call 956-638-1961. Garden Tour - Native Plant Garden, 10:00 AM, Quinta Mazatlan, 600 Sunset Dr, McAllen. $3.00 pp, Walk with a garden expert and listen to interesting stories about Valley plants. For information call 956-681-3370. Penitas RC Races, 12:00 PM, Penitas RV Park, 304 S. Main St, Penitas. We race 1/10th scale electric stadium trucks

& short course trucks. EVERYONE IS INVITED, NO DUES OR FEES. For information call 956-585-2284. RGV Premium Outlets will participate in Susan G. Komen 2017, 12:00 PM, Rio Grande Valley Premium Outlets, 5001 E Exp 83, Mercedes. Rio Grande Valley Premium Outlets is selling $10 Discount Cards which provides 25% off one item at 52 participating retailers. Social Hour w/Diego, 03:00 PM, Siesta Village, 2712 S International Blvd, Weslaco. Pass the hat, popcorn, hot dogs, coneys, nachos and soft drinks available. For information call 217-972-4300. Karaoke Dinner w/Harry & Judy, 04:00 PM, Llano Grande Resort, 2215 E West Blvd, Mercedes. $7.50 pp, BBQ brisket potato salad, baked beans, roll, iced tea or coffee. For

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS CONTINUED ON PAGE 18 >>

Bit-O-Heaven RV and Mobile Home Park

1051 W. Bus Hwy 83 Donna, TX 78537

www.bit-o-heaven.net

TUESDAY DANCE SPECIAL

FRIDAY DANCE • 7PM • $6 Oct. 27 Nov. 3 Nov. 10 Nov. 17 Nov. 24 Dec. 1 Dec. 8 Dec. 15

unless stated otherwise

Smokin’ Gun Steven May & Southern Knights Bottomline Band Jealous Heart Sweetwater Steven May & Southern Knights Bottomline Band Jealous Heart

ENTERTAINMENT • 7:00PM

Dec. 3 Dec. 12 Jan. 9 Jan. 21 Jan. 23

Razz Ma Tazz $6 LaDawn $6 Bill Chrastil $7 Goldwing Express Mexican Fiesta Senior Ambassadors $7

UPCOMING CRAFT SHOWS

Saturdays • 8:00AM to Noon Dec. 2, 2017 • Jan. 6, 2018 Feb. 3, 2018 • March 3, 2018

UPCOMING JAMS IN 2018!

Big Band (Jan. 6, 2018 thru March 10, 2018) Every Saturday • 2:00PM to 4:00PM Country (Jan. 8, 2018 thru March 19, 2018) Every Monday • 1:00PM Dulcimer (Jan. 4, 2018 thru March 15, 2018) Every Thursday • 12:30PM to 3:00PM

956-782-7886

501 W. Owassa Rd.• Pharr, TX 78577

www.texastrailsrv.com

**** FRIDAY DANCES ****

Halloween Costume Dance • 7:00-10:00pm Oct. 31 • The Jets • $5.00

listed ALL DANCES 7:00PM-10:00PM unless otherwise Singles are Welcome

EVERY TUESDAY

Nov 10 Diego....................................... $6.00 Nov 17 Diego....................................... $6.00 Nov 24 Rewind................................... $10.00 Dec 1 Renaissance Rockers............... $10.00 Dec 8 Gatos Locos.............................. $7.00 Dec 22 Ralph & the Cruisers................ $10.00 Dec 29 Diego....................................... $6.00 Dec 31* Daddy D Three........................ $15.00 *New Year’s Eve Dance 8:30PM-12:30AM (w/late lunch) Jan 5 Renaissance Rockers............... $10.00 Jan 12 Chamberlins w/Southern Express...$6.00 Jan 19 Diego....................................... $6.00 Jan 26 Regan James Hired Hand........... $6.00 Feb 2 Ralph & the Cruisers................ $10.00

BYOB & Snacks

STARTS NOVEMBER 7 Country Jams 12:00-2:30pm Happy Hour w/Diego 3:30-5:00pm • Donations

BYOB • Popcorn & Soda for sale

EVERY WEDNESDAY ENTERTAINMENT • 6:30PM

Popcorn/Soda/Ice Cream Bars for sale

Nov. 29 • The Chamberlins • $5.00 & Southern Express

EVERY THURSDAY : SOUP SUPPER STARTS DECEMBER 7 4:30 PM • $3 All You Can Eat/BYOTS Dessert for sale

EVERY FRIDAY : DANCE

7:00pm - 10:00pm • Popcorn & Soda for sale

Nov. 17 • Drew and • $6.00 the Dancehall Dreamers Nov. 24 • Steven May and • $6.00 the Southern Knights

EVERY SUNDAY : KARAOKE STARTS NOVEMBER 5 5:00 PM • ALL WELCOME

CRAFT FAIR

Second Friday Every Month • 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM

PATIO SALES

Second Saturday Every Month • 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Susan Thomas 603-396-2786 ACTIVITY DIRECTOR

**** ENTERTAINMENT **** ALL ENTERTAINMENT 7:00PM Pay at the Door (unless otherwise noted)

Dec 10 Dec 16 Jan 3 Jan 4 Jan 9 Jan 10 Jan 14 Jan 16 Jan 17 Jan 18 Jan 20 Jan 24

Swing Street Christmas Show..... $7.00 Razz Ma Tazz.......................Donations Kelli Marie Show....................... $6.00 Helen Russell & Company Show.... $7.00 Pat Davison Show...................... $8.00 Wade Benson Landry Show........ $7.00 Bernie & Red Show................... $7.00 Punches Family Show................ $7.00 Mollie B Show... $12.00 ADV • $15.00 DOOR Goldwing Express...................... $8.00 Jason Coleman/Floyd Cramer Piano Show............................... $7.00 Ralph Kuster Show.................... $7.00

1645 S. Bentsen Palm Drive Palmview, TX 78572

956-585-0703

Peggy Creach • Kathy Tyler Activity Directors

PROMOTE YOUR EVENT RIGHT HERE!

Is there an event, sale or a meeting you or your organization wish to announce ? Send us the details and we can see how we can help spread the word.

Call today

956-687-5115

October 25, 2017 • • • Welcome

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

DANCE ENTERTAINMENT & SHOWS SCHEDULE OF EVENTS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 17 information call 956-565-1506. THURSDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2017 Maxan Street Farmers’ Market, 04:00 Volunteers in the Park, 08:30 AM, PM, The Garden, Port Isabel. McAllen Nature Center, 4101 W The Garden on Maxan Street in US Highway 83, McAllen. Free Port Isabel’s Lighthouse Square. admission, Join us for a fun morning of Additional parking at Pirate’s gardening! Projects include planting, weeding garden beds, trail pruning, Landing. For information and vendor invasive species removal, raking opportunities, call 956-433-9675. trails, and more. For information call Entertainment w/Leslie Blasing, 06:00 956-681-3333. PM, Palm Street Pier, 204 Palm St, Yoga Under the Oaks, 08:30 AM, South Padre Island. For information McAllen Nature Center, 4101 W Business Hwy 83, McAllen. Our call 956-761-4347. Sunset Geocaching, 06:00 PM, yoga program is designed to provide McAllen Nature Center, 4101 any person with the benefits of yoga W US Highway 83, McAllen. practice. Make sure to bring a mat, towel, or small blanket as well as Geocaching is a new-age scavenger water. Park admission is a $1/person hunt! Geocaches are small, enclose suggested donation. This program capsules hidden in strange places, is provided free of charge. For that are located with a smartphone information call 956-681-3333. or handheld GPS. Admission is a Bronze Sculpture Tour, 10:00 AM, $1/person suggested donation. This Quinta Mazatlan, 600 Sunset program is provided free of charge. Dr, McAllen. $3.00 pp, Quinta For information call 956-681-3333. Mazatlan’s one-of-a-kind outdoor Dance w/Bottomline Band, 07:00 PM, Forest Sculpture Trail helps visitors develop an appreciation for the vast Tip O’Texas RV Resort, 101 E Sioux variety of creatures that call our region Rd, Pharr. $6.00 pp, for information home. The guided tours visit over 35 call 956-787-6461

JAM SESSIONS

MEALS

bronze sculptures, created by local artist Douglas Clark. For information call 956-681-3370. Nature Speaker Series: Cooking w/ Natives, Taste a Walk Through History, 06:00 PM, Quinta Mazatlan, 600 Sunset Dr, McAllen. $3.00 pp, Explore nature with great speakers discussing topics from birds and butterflies to culture and art of the Rio Grande Valley. The educational series is brought to you by the generous sponsorship of Thurmond Eye Associates. For information call 956-681-3370. RGV Metal Detecting Club Meeting, 07:00 PM, Golden Corral, 300 W Expressway 83, Weslaco. RGV Metal Detecting Club meets the last Thursday of every month at 7:00 PM, but please come earlier to dine in and visit. This is an open meeting and guest are encouraged to come. We talk about metal detecting, the fun one may have, and show off our treasures. We have our club hunts the Saturday before our meeting. More information can be found at www. RGVMetalDetectingClub.net. Entertainment w/Trio Tres en Punto,

SALES

07:45 PM, Hacienda San Miguel 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, OCTOBER 27, 2017

Rio Grande Valley Woodcarvers, 08:00 AM, Nomad Shrine Club, 1044 W Nolana Loop, Pharr. Woodcarvers get together and carve, share patterns and have weekly drawing, for information call 956-781-1986. History Tour, 10:00 AM, Quinta Mazatlan, 600 Sunset Dr, McAllen. $3.00 pp, Tour one of the largest adobe homes in the state of Texas. Hear the colorful tales of the families that lived at Quinta Mazatlan before the City of McAllen opened it in 2006 as a mansion with a mission. For information call 956-681-3370. T-Shirt Quilt, 01:00 PM, A Block Away Quilt Shop, 2706 N 10th St, McAllen. Level: Confident Beginner through Experienced Quilters. What better way is there to remember great times that you (or someone special to you) enjoyed than with a T-shirt quilt. Yet

www.welcomehomergv.com • • • October 25, 2017

DANCE ENTERTAINMENT & SHOWS to make the stretchy fabric of a T-shirt work well in a quilt, you will need to learn the “secrets.” Join us in this fun and informative class and you too will know the “secrets!” $25/person, Instructor: Barb Bergquist. For information call 956-638-1961. Pedal Boat, Kayak & Stand Up Paddle Board Rentals, 04:00 PM, Town Lake at Fireman’s Park, 201 N 1st St, McAllen. Enjoy 30 minutes on the lake in a boat of your choice. Rental fee includes a life jacket which must be worn while on the lake. For information call 956-681-3333. Harlingen Art Night, 06:00 PM, Downtown Harlingen. Everyone is welcome to attend for an evening of art, culture, and culinary delights. Shops, galleries, and restaurants will stay open late to celebrate the art of Downtown Harlingen with special exhibitions, meet-and-greet events with local artists, art studio tours, and Enjoy Arts and Culture in Downtown Harlingen. For information call 956-216-4910. Brooks Ausborn at Cowboy Chicken, 06:00 PM, Cowboy Chicken, 1020 W Nolana Ave, McAllen. Great guitar entertainment, good parking, beer specials, Awesome Chicken! For information call 956-686-7777. Stand Up Paddleboard Workout, 06:00 PM, Town Lake at Fireman’s Park, 201 N 1st St, McAllen. Join a Town Lake staff member for a 30 minute workout on a paddleboard. No experience is necessary. For information call 956-681-3333. Sunset Yoga, 06:00 PM, McAllen Nature Center, 4101 W US Highway 83, McAllen. Our yoga program is designed to provide any person with the benefits of yoga practice. Make sure to bring a mat, towel, or small blanket as well as water. Park admission is a $1/person suggested donation. This program is provided free of charge. For information call 956-681-3333. Entertainment w/Leslie Blasing, 06:30 PM, Louie’s Backyard, 2305 Laguna Blvd, South Padre Island. For information call 956-761-4347. George Amorim: Double Bass, 07:00 PM, UTRGV Performing Arts Complex, 1201 W University Dr, Edinburg. Free admission, for information call 956-882-7025. Dance w/Smokin’ Gun, 07:00 PM, Texas Trails RV Resort, 501 W Owassa Rd, Pharr. $6.00 pp, for information call 956-787-6538. Friday Night Hike, 07:00 PM, McAllen Nature Center, 4101 W US Highway 83, McAllen. Enjoy an evening with the creatures of the night! Bring

a flashlight, bug spray, and wear close-toed shoes. Park admission is $1/person suggested donation. The program is provided free of charge. For information call 956-681-3333. Entertainment w/Trio Tres en Punto Live Music, 09:45 PM, Ostioneria Michoacan, 5612 N 10th St, McAllen. Come and enjoy one of the best groups here in the RGV!

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 28, 2017

4th Annual Brush County Medicine & Survival Conference, 08:00 AM, Edinburg Conference Center at Renaissance, 118 Paseo Del Prado, Edinburg. Free admission, The Brush Country Medicine and Survival Conference will cover how to treat injuries and medical emergencies, such as snake bites, gunshot wounds, heat related illness, and other emergent issues. For information call 956-362-3240. Spectacular Saturdays, 08:00 AM, Edinburg Scenic Wetlands, 714 S Raul Longoria Rd, Edinburg. Throughout the day, there will be activities, short games, and scheduled nature hikes. Binoculars are available free of charge. For information call 956-381-9922. Tai Chi in the Park, 08:00 AM, McAllen Nature Center, 4101 W US Highway 83, McAllen. Tai Chi has positive effects on balance control, fitness and flexibility. Wear comfortable clothes, flexible shoes, and bring water. For information call 956-681-3333. Bird Walks @ Resaca de la Palma, 08:30 AM, Resaca de la Palma, 1000 New Carmen Blvd, Brownsville. Travel by foot or on our new and amazingly quiet electric trams to reach our destinations. We have many different trails to venture onto that are relatively flat and ADA accessible. With 1,200 acres of lush, riparian woodlands we will also be birding by ear. For information call 956-350-2920. Songbird Stroll, 08:30 AM, Quinta Mazatlan, 600 Sunset Dr, McAllen. $3.00 pp, Join an experienced bird guide who will take you through the thorn forest, to Ebony Grove, wildlife ponds, the cactus garden and even around the historic home where a multitude of birds find habitats. Over 250 other species have been seen at QM. For information call 956-681-3370. Volunteer Program, 08:30 AM, Quinta Mazatlan, 600 Sunset Dr, McAllen. Free Admission,Join other caring community members that contribute back to the earth, on any Wednesday

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or Saturday morning from 8:30 am to noon. Work outside in the gardens, inside with program preps, or assist at a special event. All ages welcome. For information call 956-681-3370. Monarch Day, 09:00 AM, South Padre Island Birding And Nature Center, 6801 Padre Blvd, South Padre Island. Celebrate and witness one of the true wonders of nature, Monarch butterfly Fall migration. Each year, thousands of Monarch butterflies funnel down the Texas coast on their way to wintering grounds in central Mexico. Enjoy a full day of Monarch education, games, performances, music, crafts, and learn what you can do to help them on their migration through our area! This will be during the nicest time of the year! For information call 956-761-6801. 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. Grow’n Growers Farmers Market, 09:00

SALES

AM, Firemen Park, 201 N 1st St, McAllen. We are year round market with locally grown, chemical free, fruits, vegetables, meats and farm products. Contact 956-330-6410. Rio Grande Delta International Archeology Fair, 10:00 AM, Palo Alto Battlefield National Historical Park, 7200 Paredes Line Rd, Brownsville. Free admission, Join us for our Annual Rio Grande Delta International Archaeology Fair. The fair provides the community an opportunity to learn about archaeology, local archaeological resources, and preservation. For information call 956-541-2785. Citizen Science Program, 10:00 AM, Quinta Mazatlan, 600 Sunset Dr, McAllen. Every Saturday for an hour, citizens become scientists, in this unique program that help scientific researchers collect data. Quinta Mazatlan’s Urban Ecologist will instruct you how to measure, collect, or survey for the topic of the week. For information call 956-681-3370 The Market @ McAllen, 10:00 AM, McAllen Public Library, 4001 N 23rd

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS CONTINUED ON PAGE 20 >>

ter

Visit our spacious Hynes Event Cen

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DANCE / ENTERTAINMENT Hynes Event Center Doors Open 6:00PM

Bar & Concession Available

Halloween Dance w/Ralph & The Cruisers Tuesday, October 31 7:00 PM • $10.00 pp

Purchase tickets online at

hyneseventcenter.com

KARAOKE DINNER

Every Wednesday • $7.50

October 25 • 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM

BBQ Brisket Potato Salad, Baked Beans, Roll, Iced Tea or Coffee

November 1 • 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM

Beef Enchiladas, Spanish Rice, Charro Beans, Saltine Crackers, Iced Tea or Coffee

KARAOKE

with Harry and Judy Every Wednesday

Dance w/SweetWater Saturday, November 4 7:00 PM • $6.00 pp Dance w/Pelican West Saturday, November 11 7:00 PM • $8.00 pp

BYOB, Bar and Concession Available October 25 • 5:00 PM November 1 • 5:00 PM

HAPPY HOUR

BYOB • Pass the Hat • Hynes Event Center (Bar and Concession Available)

Happy Hour w/Diego

November 10 • 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM

October 25, 2017 • • • Welcome

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

DANCE ENTERTAINMENT & SHOWS SCHEDULE OF EVENTS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 19 St, McAllen. Local farmers, ranchers, Million Pillowcase Challenge closer to chefs, and artisans each contributing the million mark. The total count as to the healthy life style changes our of this writing is just under 3/4 million community desperately needs. and though we won’t push the number Country Jam Lunch!, 11:00 AM, Green over, we can help raise it up. And while Gate Grove, 2135 S Bentsen Palm Dr, you are here, we will give you 10% Palmview. OPEN TO THE PUBLIC, for off any fabrics that you buy to make more information call 956-584-1561. pillowcases, but feel free to bring any Butterfly Walk, 11:00 AM, McAllen fabrics you want to use to make them. Nature Center, 4101 W US Highway Don’t know how to make a pillowcase? 83, McAllen. Join a staff naturalist for No worry! We will show you how. Plan a 1/2 mile walk to explore butterflies! to come with friends and make a Loaner binoculars are available free difference together for those who have of charge. Bring a camera if desired. suffered the devastation of Harvey. Admission is $1/person suggested (Good in-store only.) For information donation per person. For information call 956-638-1961. call 956-681-3333. Entertainment w/Leslie Blasing, 01:00 Country Jam, 12:30 PM, Green Gate PM, Boomerang Billy’s, 2612 Gulf Grove, 2135 S Bentsen Palm Dr, Blvd, South Padre Island. Weather Palmview. OPEN TO THE PUBLIC, permitting. For information call Lunch served at 11:00 am. For more 956-761-4347. information call 956-584-1561. Fossil Fright, 02:00 PM, Edinburg Make a Difference Day Special, 01:00 Scenic Wetlands, 714 S Raul PM, A Block Away Quilt Shop, 2706 Longoria Rd, Edinburg. Nothing N 10th St, McAllen. Join us in the Symbolizes Halloween like skeletons. Million Pillowcase Challenge on Oct. Come explore the spooky world of 28. We will be making pillowcases skeletons as you learn how fossils are to be contributed to Hurricane Harvey created on this Halloween weekend. victims while we raise the count for the Participants will receive a fossil

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goody bag to take home. Fee is $4 for members and $6 for non members. For information call 956-381-9922. Fall Butterfly Walks, 02:30 PM, Edinburg Scenic Wetlands, 714 S Raul Longoria Rd, Edinburg. Regular admission, Join our naturalists on a walk around the park as we search for butterflies. From queens to skippers, we’ll go around and look to see how many we can find. For information call 956-381-9922. Harlingen Farmers Market, 03:00 PM, Downtown Harlingen, 2nd St & Tyler Ave. A pedestrian friendly space in DOWNTOWN Harlingen. Many new vendors including grass-fed beef, dried nuts and fruits, fresh flowers, coffee and lattes, and produce vendors. Live music. Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead), 04:00 PM, Museum of South Texas History, 200 N Closner Blvd, Edinburg. $5.00 pp, for information call 956-383-6911. Pedal Boat, Kayak & Stand Up Paddle Board Rentals, 04:00 PM, Town Lake at Fireman’s Park, 201 N 1st St, McAllen. Enjoy 30 minutes on the lake in a boat of your choice. Rental fee includes a life jacket which must be worn while on the lake. For information call 956-681-3333. Stand Up Paddleboard Workout, 06:00 PM, Town Lake at Fireman’s Park, 201 N 1st St, McAllen. Join a Town Lake staff member for a 30 minute workout on a paddleboard. No experience is necessary. For information call 956-681-3333. Sunset Nature Walk, 06:00 PM, McAllen Nature Center, W US Highway 83, McAllen. Join a staff member for a fun, one hour walk exploring the nature on our trails! For information call 956-681-3333. UTRGV Women’s Soccer vs. New Mexico State, 07:00 PM, UTRGV Fieldhouse, 1201 W University Dr, Edinburg. For information call 956-665-3747. Hallo Flute Concert, 07:00 PM, UTRGV Performing Arts Complex, 1201 W University Dr, Edinburg. Free admission, join us for this Flute concert. For information call 956-882-7025. Dance w/SweetWater, 07:00 PM, Trophy Gardens RV Resort, 800 State Hwy 495, Alamo. $6.00 pp, doors open at 5:30 pm, concessions and set ups available, BYOB, for information call 956-787-7717. Dance w/Texas Wheels, 07:00 PM, Casa del Valle, 1048 N Alamo Rd, Alamo. For information call 956-783-5008. Halloween Dance w/Diego, 07:00 PM, Palm Gardens RV Park, 3401

SALES

W Business 83, Harlingen. For information call 956-423-7670. Halloween Dance w/Jealous Heart, 07:00 PM, Aladdin Villas, 1415 Aladdin Villas Blvd West, Mission. $7.00 pp, costume judging at 9:00 pm, for information call 320-492-6415. Entertainment w/Leslie Blasing, 07:00 PM, Palm Street Pier, 204 Palm St, South Padre Island. For information call 956-761-4347.

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 29, 2017

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. Dia de los Muertos Festival, 01:00 PM, International Museum of Art & Science, 1900 W Nolana Ave, McAllen. Join us in a celebration of the Day of the Dead with artist and artisan vendor tables, a community altar exhibit, sugar skull making workshops, food trucks and more. For information call 956-681-2800. Entertainment w/Leslie Blasing, 01:00 PM, Boomerang Billy’s, 2612 Gulf Blvd, South Padre Island. Weather permitting. For information call 956-761-4347. Live Music!, 02:00 PM, Riverside Club, 214 Chimney Rd, Mission. For information call 956-581-1033. Octubafest, 03:00 PM, UTRGV Performing Arts Complex, 1201 W University Dr, Edinburg. The UTRGV Tuba/Euphonium Ensemble will present its annual Octubafest concert. This exciting concert will feature original and arranged music for tuba/euphonium ensemble plus a few extra surprises along the way. For information call 956-882-7025. Pedal Boat, Kayak & Stand Up Paddle Board Rentals, 04:00 PM, Town Lake at Fireman’s Park, 201 N 1st St, McAllen. Enjoy 30 minutes on the lake in a boat of your choice. Rental fee includes a life jacket which must be worn while on the lake. For information call 956-681-3333. Sunset Meditation, 06:00 PM, McAllen Nature Center, W US Highway 83, McAllen. Free admission, We all work more efficiently with a clear mind. In this meditation program we will explore simple techniques to reduce stress and increase well-being. This program is provided FREE of charge! Site admission is $1/person suggested donation. For information call 956-681-3333. Entertainment w/Leslie Blasing, 06:30 PM, Louie’s Backyard, 2305

www.welcomehomergv.com • • • October 25, 2017

DANCE ENTERTAINMENT & SHOWS Laguna Blvd, South Padre Island. For information call 956-761-4347.

MONDAY, OCTOBER 30, 2017

Treat Don’t Trick Fair, 01:00 PM, Brook Ridge Retirement Community, 1301 W Ridge Rd, Pharr. Free admission, Silent Auction, Carnival Games, Food, Door Prizes!! Seminars Focused On Identity Theft & Scams. And More!! For information call 956-429-8061. Country Music Jam, 05:30 PM, Enchanted Valley Ranch, 7300 Monroe St, Mission. Free admission, free coffee and snacks at break, ice cream for sale at break, for information call 956-519-8597. 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 956884-9909. Native Plant Tour, 06:00 PM, McAllen Nature Center, 4101 W Business 83, McAllen. Join a staff naturalist for a walk on the trails and through the native plant gardens, exploring the benefits of native plants. Admission is $1/person suggested donation and public programs are free of charge unless otherwise noted. For information call 956-681-3333. Python Class, 06:30 PM, McAllen Creative Incubator, 601 N Main St, McAllen. $250.00 pp, Python is a general purpose programming language that’s designed to be easy to read & implement. Python is considered a scripting language, and is frequently used to create Web applications and dynamic Web content. For information call 956-404-0237. Magic Valley Chorus Of Sweet Adelines International, 07:00 PM, Village at Westlakes Hall, 4101 Carnation, McAllen. For information call Shirley 956-661-9926 or Janet 956-682-8245. Rio Bravo Percussion Ensemble, 07:00 PM, TSC Arts Center, 90 Taylor Ave, Brownsville. $5.00 pp, for information call 956-882-7025.

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 31, 2017

Bird Walks, 08:30 AM, Edinburg Scenic Wetlands, 714 S Raul Longoria Rd, Edinburg. Regular admission, join us for a walk around our grounds as we introduce you to the abundant birds that make the EWBC home. Scopes, binoculars and field guides are provided. For information call 956-381-9922.

Volunteers in the Park, 08:30 AM, McAllen Nature Center, 4101 W US Highway 83, McAllen Free admission, Join us for a fun morning of gardening! Projects include planting, weeding garden beds, trail pruning, invasive species removal, raking trails, and more. For information call 956-681-3333. Yoga Under the Oaks, 08:30 AM, McAllen Nature Center, 4101 W Business Hwy 83, McAllen. Our yoga program is designed to provide any person with the benefits of yoga practice. Make sure to bring a mat, towel, or small blanket as well as water. Park admission is a $1/person suggested donation. This program is provided free of charge. For information call 956-681-3333. Taco Tuesday, 11:30 AM, Sleepy Valley Resort, 2301 N Abram Rd, Mission. $5.00 pp all you can eat tacos and homemade charro beans. For information call 417-588-1588. Diabetes Management Class, 01:00 PM, 3rd Floor, McAllen Medical Center. McAllen. East Classroom, classes are provided in English and Spanish every other week. For information call Mary Escaname at 956-971-5850. Trick ‘R Treat at the Trail, 05:00 PM, Heavin Resaca Trail, San Benito. Free event, individuals, families and business may participate by bringing candy to distribute. Costume contest scheduled at 6:00 pm. Top three winners will receive prizes. Music presented by DJ Rattlesnake. For information call 956-381-3800. Halloween on Jackson Street, 06:00 PM, Downtown Harlingen, 123 E Jackson St, Harlingen. Free Entrance, Safe, Family Trick or Treating, Children’s Activities and Rides, Pumpkin Carving Contest, Zombie Walk and Costume Contest, Thriller Dance-Off, Food Trucks. Sunset Run in the Woods, 06:00 PM, McAllen Nature Center, 4101 W US Highway 83, McAllen. Join a nature center staff member for a guided, slow-paced jog on our trails. All ability levels welcome. Bring water and proper running attire. Admission is $1/person suggested donation and public programs are free of charge. For information call 956-681-3333. Halloween Costume Dance w/Danica, 07:00 PM, Victoria Palms RV Resort, 602 N Victoria Rd, Donna. $7.00 pp, Are you a closet crazy who changes when behind a mask? This is your chance to step on out of the closet and have a fantastic time. Call 956-

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MEALS

782-3263 for ticket information. Halloween Costume Dance w/The Jets, 07:00 PM, Bit-O-Heaven RV & MH, 1051 W Bus 83, Donna. $5.00 pp, Tickets are available at door only BYOB/snacks, Refreshments provided, Popcorn/soda for sale, Door prizes. For more information call 603-396-2786. Halloween Costume Party & Dance, 07:00 PM, Sleepy Valley Resort, 2301 N Abram Rd, Mission. $5.00 pp, for information call 417-588-1588. Halloween Dance, 07:00 PM, Enchanted Valley Ranch, 7300 Monroe St, Mission. $6.00 pp, Soda & water for sale, free ice, costumes welcome, for information call 956-519-8597. Halloween Dance w/Ralph & The Cruisers, 07:00 PM, Hynes Event Center at Llano Grande Resort, 2215 E West Blvd, Mercedes. $10.00 pp, for information call 956-565-1506. Halloween Dance w/Texas Wheels, 07:00 PM, Winter Ranch RV Resort, 600 State Hwy 495, Alamo. $6.00 pp, Costume contest judging at 7:30 pm, $2.00 entry fee for contest, for

SALES

information call 956-783-4587. Karaoke, 07:00 PM, Pharr South RV Resort, 1402 S Cage, Pharr. In the Activity Center Building, Everyone welcome come to sing or just listen to requests. we do a sing-along for the last 30 minutes, bring your own refreshments. For information call 956-438-7862. Entertainment w/Tres en Punto Trio, 07:30 PM, Nana’s Taqueria, 1802 S International Blvd, Weslaco. Acoustic romantic music from the 40’s, 50’s, 60’s and more, Mexican Traditional food with the best music of the Rio Grande Valley. For information call 956-862-6763. McAllen Town Band Open Rehearsal, 7:30 PM, McAllen Performing Arts Center, 801 Convention Center Blvd., McAllen. Come hear the McAllen Town Band rehearse at the new McAllen Performing Arts Center from 7:30-9:30. There is no admission for this rehearsal and you can come and go as you please. •

October 25, 2017 • • • Welcome

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

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>> CAPPADONA RANCH MESQUITE CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

bean jelly recipe through trial and error…and it was delicious! I was so happy because my kids preferred it over grape or strawberry jelly, and my in-laws started asking for some to give away as gifts. It was during the summer of 2013 that Justin got the idea to pick the mesquite bean pods to make jelly to sell during the fall. I thought it was a great idea. After all, I love cooking and coming up with my own recipes, and selling our jelly would also allow me to use my graphic design skills to create our label. After brainstorming with my husband, we decided on the name Cappadona Ranch Mesquite Bean Jelly. We made 50 cases that summer and advertised by word of mouth during the holidays. We sold out by December 1. The following summer, Fred gave me more food for thought. Stopping by one day, he asked, “Are you going to be making some more of that mesquite bean jelly? Several of my friends want to buy some. And have you ever thought about adding chili pequin?” I thought it was a great idea, being that chili pequin grows native here in Texas year-round, and we have tons of these plants on our property. After a bit of experimenting, we found that the chilis--both green and red--were great to eat when mixed with our jelly. Plus, they made the perfect Christmas gifts. We made 80 cases that summer, 40 with chili and 40 without. Once again, we sold out by the beginning of December! The ideas just kept rolling in, and in 2015, I figured I would start making my mesquite bean infusion and freezing it throughout the summer to have enough to make throughout the year. In the process of making so much infusion, I decided to try drinking it over ice and with a twist of lemon. It was delicious and refreshing. Rather than drinking our customary

Lipton tea, my family and I settled on simply drinking what would ultimately become Cappadona Ranch Mesquite Bean Tea. That fall, I came up with a plan of action. I hit social media, making Cappadona Ranch Mesquite Bean Jelly a Facebook event and began sharing it with friends. I also created Googleform order links so people could place their orders, pay, and choose a delivery or ship date online. The movement began to gain some momentum, so I included homemade recipes and other ideas on the Cappadona Ranch Mesquite Bean Jelly Facebook event page. I posted pictures and recipes, gaining more and more likes as time went by. I made approximately 200 cases in 2015, 100 with chili and 100 without. I also designed business cards and banners to help sell my Cappadona Ranch Mesquite Bean Jelly at the 2015 McAllen Christmas Festival. I bought disposable spoons so customers could taste the jelly, and I loved everyone’s reactions when they tasted our product for the first time. The 2015 Christmas Festival was a success. We were sold out once again in early December, and I realized we had something magical on our hands. Now here we are, several years down the road…still growing…and still providing the best mesquite bean jelly this side of Texas. Please take a few minutes to visit us online at cappadonaranch.com. I will be sharing some of our recipes with you in Welcome Home Winter Texan, and Cappadona Ranch will be back for this year’s Winter Texan Expo January 16 and 17 (2018) from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the McAllen Convention Center. View the wonders of ranch life with me and my family at Cappadona Ranch! •

(Editor’s Note: Over the next few weeks, Victoria will share recipes with you that incorporate Cappadona Ranch Mesquite Bean products. As an introduction to their products, we asked her to share with you the story behind their products.)

www.welcomehomergv.com • • • October 25, 2017

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Choose from One of our Rio Grande Valley Resort Locations!

S. Alamo Road Alamo, TX 78516 956-783-2600

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101 E. Sioux Road Pharr, TX 78577 956-787-9959

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