Issuu

FORE! GOLFING IN THE RGV!

This week features Harlingen’s Tony Butler Golf Course!

www.welcomehomergv.com • •CONNECTION! • November 22, 2017 RECIPE Check out this week’s listings of Executive Chef Bettina Tolin shares what’s happening in the RGV! a tasty chili recipe to enjoy!

UPCOMING EVENTS!

Welcome Home See details on page 6.

See calendar starting on page 21.

VOLUME 3 • ISSUE 6 • November 22, 2017

Try this recipe on page 29.

WINTER TEXAN

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

World-Renowned Quilt Celebrity and Inspirational Educator,

Ricky Tims to Present Quilt Luminarium at the South Padre Island Convention Center

made it through the first few weeks of November! It was hectic for sure, as we entertained our Activity Directors and Managers through our annual ‘Boot Camp’. Boot Camp allows us to highlight some of our Valley attractions and network with each other to discuss items of interest that directly affect Winter Texans across the Valley.

This week, we’re take a little breather. We will be taking off some time to celebrate Thanksgiving with our families while trying to squeeze in a bit of rest. We have to prepare ourselves for the next wave of Winter Texans who will be checking in shortly after the Thanksgiving holiday! At Welcome Home RGV, we are so thankful for each and every one of you. Wherever you may be this Thanksgiving, know that you have a team working tirelessly to keep you informed about all the Rio Grande Valley has to offer. This Thanksgiving, we give thanks for all of you, give thanks in advance for the safe travels of those who have yet to arrive, and also give thanks for what is sure to be the best winter yet in South Texas! • We’re just connecting the dots,

Kristi

For all quilters! Be inspired, laugh, and learn! Special to Welcome Home RGV

Ricky Tims, international quilting celebrity and co-host of the online TV program at TheQuiltShow.com, will be presenting Quilt Luminarium January 28-29, 2018, at the South Padre Island Convention Center on South Padre Island in conjunction with the Rio Grande Valley Quilt Show. Quilt Luminarium is a two-day, comprehensive quilt symposium that demystifies seemingly complex concepts, teaches mastery of unique techniques, and harnesses the power of the ever-elusive muse of creativity. It covers a wide range of topics, including innovative piecing, appliqué, quilting, and finishing techniques. Sessions also include design and composition and color theory.

Quilt Luminarium presenter Ricky Tims is a longtime entertainer, encourager, comedian, and motivational speaker. He has a unique and pragmatic way to help one realize his or her full creative potential. Tims unmasks the creative psyche and reveals common attributes-both good and bad--that creative individuals share. Quilters will learn how to take traditional patterns and make them unique and how a pattern can be adapted to reflect any quilting genre. Tims says, “This is the only event of its kind in the world. It is jam-packed with great information, inspiration, and a heavy dose of entertainment.” “So many of us work in our own comfort zone,” one participant said. “Some of us are afraid to take risks in working ‘outside the box’ in our creations. But experiencing what Ricky presented to us, we gained the courage PLUS the knowhow to try something new. The gamut of his seminar was profound!”

• The event is presented in a lecture/ demo-style format. There is no sewing and no supply list. Quilters won’t be going home with a UFO (Unfinished Object). Everyone attends all sessions. • Quilt Luminarium is truly for all quilters, from beginner to advanced, from traditional to contemporary, and from modern to art. • Each registrant receives a 130page full-color syllabus containing all of the information presented! • Ricky’s prize-winning quilts will be on display. His hand-dyed fabrics, books, DVDs, patterns, notions, and more will be available for purchase. This is special event produced by Ricky Tims Inc. and held in conjunction with the Rio Grande Valley Quilt Show. • $164 Early-bird deadline: November 27, 2017 $199 Registration deadline: December 28, 2017 Register online at www.quiltluminarium.com Space is limited.

About Ricky Tims: Ricky Tims is an internationally renowned quilting celebrity, award-winning quilter, fabric designer, multi-talented artist, creative internet TV show co-host, enthusiastic and inspirational teacher, engaging motivational speaker, best-selling author, musican, and photographer. His innovative and entertaining presentations feature live music and humor combined with scholarly insights and wisdom. His quilts have been displayed worldwide and are highly regarded as excellent examples of contemporary quilts with traditional appeal. He was named as one of The Thirty Most Distinguished Quilters in the World. He was selected (in a three-way tie) by the readers of Quilter’s Newsletter Magazine as The Most Influential Person in the Quilting Industry. He has been profiled and featured on the popular television news show CBS News Sunday Morning with Charles Osgood. He has taught on six continents in places including Australia, Japan, Russia, Spain, Germany, Ireland, England, New Zealand, Kenya, South Africa, Ecuador, and others. Ricky has successfully combined his artistic passions into one very unique and interesting career. For more information, visit www.RickyTims.com and www.thequiltshow.com

A SPECIAL THANK YOU TO OUR 2017-2018 SEASON SPONSORS

November 22, 2017 • • • Welcome

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

It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like

Goodies Packed in Popcorn and a RGV Military Quilters Guild Presentation Special to Welcome Home RGV

Special to Welcome Home RGV

Come

shop the Harlingen Farmers Market each Saturday from 3:00 - 4:30 p.m. at 2nd and Tyler by City Hall. It is the season of bounty, especially when you think about your dinner table! You will find lettuce, spinach, kale, Swiss chard, zucchini, yellow crookneck squash, asparagus, pumpkins, sprouts, honey, fresh herbs, red and daikon radishes, beets, turnips, and all kinds of citrus. For all of those protein lovers, we will have chicken and quail eggs, Wild Gulf shrimp, grassfed beef, quail, goat-milk cheeses, and no-lard tamales. If you feel like getting some to go-food, we have Thai spring rolls and papaya salad, along with Mediterranean to-go-hummus, kale salad, Tabouli, and

Welcome Home

WINTER TEXAN

your official connection to the rio grande valley

Publisher

Kristi Collier

kristi@welcomehomergv.com

from-scratch pita chips. There are gluten-free vegan and yeast breads, also. How about a freshly brewed cup of coffee with a just-made sweet or savory crepe? And don’t forget zucchini bread, jam, jelly, granola, chocolate, fresh flowers, pickles, vinegars, nuts, grains, and pastries. At the Harlingen Farmers Market, you’ll also enjoy live music and free samples. We’re here every Saturday! •

Veteran’s Day was an emotional event at Winter Ranch RV Resort. Over 120 veterans and their spouses were honored with a special program on Veterans Day. The highlight of the veterans’ recognition was the presentation of a Military Quilt to Chuck Pierson, who served in the U.S. Army during the Korean conflict. Pierson was selected by the manager and activity director and met the criteria set by the RGV Quilt Guild. He is a fulltime resident of the RGV. Mary Chamberlin performed a rousing rendition of Battle Hymn of the Republic, You’re a Grand Old Flag, and God Bless America. Former Nashville Vocalist of the Year Chamberlin greeted the veterans as she strolled through the audience. The dessert after the meal was a reminder of days gone by. Many veterans remembered receiving goodies from home. Since packing

peanuts had not been invented, the mothers, wives, and girlfriends were ingenious, packing the cookies in popcorn to prevent them from breaking. Dessert was a brownsack lunch containing popcorn and a cookie. The guests saw the oil from the day-old popcorn seeped into the bag and realized how the popcorn must have tasted after traveling for several weeks to a month before their soldier received it. Remember--their popcorn was popped in lard, not the light cooking oils we have today. One veteran shared that his buddies would take the popcorn away from him when his goodie box arrived. Popcorn was a special treat. Using the theme of the USO clubs, the Bob Hope USO tour was featured in black and white on the large screen. A dance followed the luncheon. To all of our veterans…we thank you for your service!!! •

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

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www.welcomehomergv.com • • • November 22, 2017

SERVING

FOR OVER

Lots of dentists and staff means

you can get care with minimal wait time.

YEARS

Dr. Jorge Mustre and Dra. Rocio Mustre

Piper Jones to Perform in Harlingen November 28 Sensational soulstress kicks off fall/winter concert series Special to Welcome Home RGV

American Idol favorite Piper Jones

Excellence in Dentistry

at prices you won’t believe! The dream team at Mustre Dental Clinic is here to provide the finest service. The attention to detail you see in the office is the same attention your teeth will receive. Whatever dental needs you have, we can take care of them.

Here at Mustre Dental Clinic, we have the newest and most innovating equipment in Dentistry and X-ray such as Cone Beam, 3D X-ray, panoramic, and cephalometric, with New Dose Reduction Feature that lowers X-ray exposure 30% to 40% in a time of 7.4/sec panoramic; 9.4/sec 3D scan for a more detailed diagnosis.

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will be showcasing the voice that captivated thousands in the new show, Sirens of Song. The powerhouse vocalist from Nashville, Tennessee, will be performing at the Harlingen Municipal Auditorium Tuesday, November 28, at 7:30 p.m. This is the first of six outstanding shows in the Harlingen Concert Association’s 2017-18 season. Season tickets are available online at HarlingenConcert. com and at the Municipal Auditorium. The silky smooth voice of Piper Jones wowed the masses during her run as a contestant on the 14th season of American Idol, impressing judge Jennifer Lopez enough to call Jones “a star.” Piper Jones is a Contemporary Christian artist who delivers a worthy message and inspires every audience for which she performs. Her touring show, Sirens of Song, features a combination of gospel and mainstream repertoire, including hits by leading ladies of the music industry -- Ella Fitzgerald, Billie Holiday, Etta James, Aretha Franklin, Whitney Houston, and many more. Jones, who has been dubbed a “natural talent” by Harry Connick, Jr., will be joined by piano and acoustic bass for an entertaining evening of contemporary gospel music,

great jazz, and blues. The Harlingen Concert Association has been bringing internationally acclaimed touring artists to the Rio Grande Valley since the 1930s. This all-volunteer, nonprofit organization is committed to enriching the cultural life of the Harlingen area through live performances. Thanks to season ticketholders, these concerts can be offered at affordable, familyfriendly prices. The other five HCA performances this season include:

Two on Tap song-and-dance revue January 11, 2018 Hank Williams tribute artist Jason Petty January 27, 2018 The Quebe Sisters (fiddle champions) February 10, 2018 Three Redneck Tenors February 21, 2018 The Side Street Strutters Jazz Band March 9, 2018. All shows begin at 7:30 p.m. For more information, contact the Harlingen Municipal Auditorium, at 956-216-5990. The Auditorium box office is open from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday-Friday. Tickets for individual shows will be sold at the door, if available. •

There’s Nothing like a Tuba Christmas

Special to Welcome Home RGV

The 29th Annual Rio Grande Valley TUBA CHRISTMAS Concert will be at 2 p.m. Sunday, December 3, at the Nikki Rowe High School gym, 2101 N. Ware Road, in McAllen. This unique concert brings together tuba and euphonium players of all ages in a performance of traditional Christmas carols. This year’s guest artist will be

Deanna Swoboda, associate professor of tuba/euphonium at Arizona State University. Her performance is made possible by a grant from Melhart’s Music. Last year’s concert featured more than 350 professional and student performers. The concert is free. •

November 22, 2017 • • • Welcome

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

www.welcomehomergv.com • • • November 22, 2017

• • • index

WEEKLY NEWSPAPER

Lakewood RV Resort Preparing for 25th Year of Christmas for the Needy

by Donna Wright, Lakewood resident and Christmas for the Needy chairperson

As residents are returning to the Valley for the winter, here at Lakewood RV Resort, that means time to prepare for our Christmas for the Needy program. We are kicking off our 25th year of providing Christmas for a dozen or more needy families from Stuart Place Elementary, where many of our Winter Texans spend time mentoring the students. This all started with our Worship Committee years ago. Our fundraisers for this project include a Soup for the Needy Luncheon and Bake Sale December 8 from 11 a.m. - 1p.m. at Lakewood RV Resort. It is open to the public. We also have a Dance for the Needy, Square Dance/Round Dance for the Needy, a Quilt Raffle, and a Nativity Scene Raffle. The quilt has been designed by our quilting ladies, and a friend and former resident carved the nativity scene by hand from wood. Raffle tickets are on sale now and will be sold at fundraiser events, with the drawing on Monday, December 11 (Need not be present to win). As chair of this project, I would like to personally invite you to bring a friend and attend the Soup Luncheon and Bake Sale and any of these fundraiser events.

December 2 from 7:00 - 10:00 p.m., we will provide entertainment with both western and ballroom dance music for your dancing pleasure. December 3 from 1:00 - 3:00 p.m., we will offer a square dance, round dance, and line dance hosted by callers Nick Harley and Shirley Heiny. On Christmas for the Needy Day, after our fundraisers, these families come to our RV resort for FUN with Santa and Mrs. Clause and meet our residents. They enjoy cookies, punch, and fellowship and receive their groceries, gifts, and a handmade quilt for each child. We receive a warm sense of the season in our hearts, serving God through His work. All events will be held at Lakewood RV Resort, 4525 Graham Road in Harlingen. For more information, please call 956-423-1170. •

VOL 3 • ISSUE 6 • November 22, 2017

IN THIS ISSUE

21......Calendar of Events : Looking for Something to Do? 14......City of McAllen : Performing Arts Center Calendar of Events 30......Classified Section : Connecting You to Better Savings! 28......Coupon Connection : Saving You More! 13......Downtown Harlingen : 71st Annual RGV Jaycees Christmas Parade on Jackson Street 13......Downtown Harlingen : Welcoming the Holidays 6........FORE! Golf Courses in the RGV : Tony Butler Golf Course in Harlingen 3........Harlingen Concert Association : Piper Jones to Perform in Harlingen November 28 2........Harlingen Farmers Market : It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Thanksgiving 5........Lakewood RV Resort : Christmas for the Needy 14......Perspectives : Trials, by Rev. Richard “Doc” Strait, U.S. Navy, Retired 7........Pharr Community Theater : A Tejano Christmas Carol Returns 11......Razz-Ma-Tazz : Coming to a Park near You 29......Recipe Connection : Bon Appetit w/Executive Chef Bettina Tolin : 7........Seven Oaks Resort : Introducing New Managers 10......Snow to Sun by Jess Merrill : U.S. Air Force Veteran Bill Houchens 5........Some Like It Hot : Southwestern Bean Soup 19......The Border Cook : Mexican-Style Shrimp Cocktail Recipe 18......The Cool Kitchen by Sandy Olson : Meatball and Potato Soup Recipe 15......The Lamb’s Loom : Season of Thankfulness 3........Tuba Christmas Concert : There’s Nothing Like a Tuba Christmas 18......UTRGV : Holiday Concerts Sure to Delight All 10......UTRGV : The Ugly Princess, an One-Act Opera 19......Vela High School : Heathers, The Musical 5........Winter Green Estates : Food and Fabulous Finds in December Flea Market December 2 2........Winter Ranch : Goodies Packed in Popcorn and a RGV Military Quilters Guild Presentation 1........World-Renowned Quilt Celebrity and Inspirational Educator Ricky Tims to Present Quilt Luminarium at the South Padre Island Convention Center 16......Your Homes Away from HOME : Pennsylvania 10......Zoo Nights and Lights at the Gladys Porter Zoo

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

Southwestern Bean Soup Serves 6-8

Food and Fabulous Finds at the Winter Green Estates

December Flea Market December 2

Special to Welcome Home RGV

Winter Green Estates, 500 N. Bryan Road in Mission, will hold their annual December Flea Market December 2. The sale will take place from 7 a.m. until 12 p.m. Get ready for a big sale! Featured finds include holiday items, appliances, household goods, tools, outdoor pieces, clothing, and baked

goods. (Winter Green Estates does not use outside vendors for this event.) Breakfast will be served starting at 7:00 a.m.m and lunch will be served until 12:30 p.m. For more information, please contact Merrie DeVoe at 616-826-6972 or Ace Astry at 816-808-0543. •

• 8 slices bacon, diced • 1 ½ cups chopped onion • 1 ½ cups chopped celery • 2 cloves garlic, minced • 2 (16 oz.) cans refried beans • 2 (13 ¾ oz.) cans chicken broth

• 2 (4 oz.) cans chopped green chiles, undrained • ½ teaspoon chili powder • ½ teaspoon pepper • Shredded cheddar cheese • Crushed tortilla chips

Cook bacon in large saucepan until crisp; remove bacon and reserve drippings in saucepan. Set aside bacon. Sauté onion, celery, and garlic in drippings over medium heat, stirring constantly, until tender. Add next 5 ingredients and stir well. Bring to boil, reduce heat and simmer uncovered 10 minutes. Sprinkle each serving with bacon, cheese, and chips. 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.

November 22, 2017 • • • Welcome

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

Golf Courses in the RGV • • • Tony Butler Golf Course in Harlingen: A course honoring Professional Golfer Tony Butler By Fran Adams

ur featured golf course this week is the Tony Butler Golf Course. When it opened in 1929, it was the Harlingen Municipal Golf Course. Tony Butler leased the course from the City of Harlingen for the better part of 40 years. He left the area for a short time but then returned and was still the golf pro at Harlingen Municipal Golf Course when he passed away in 1979. His son-inlaw, Buddy Kalinsky, took over the facility after his passing. Harlingen Country Club members played golf at the municipal course but had their own clubhouse with a swimming pool (where the Golf Crest Condominiums are today). In 1968, they lost their clubhouse to a fire, and they relocated to their present location and built a new clubhouse and their own course, leaving the Harlingen Municipal Course. Tony Butler was credited with bringing some of golf’s greatest athletes to the Rio Grande Valley for professional tournaments during the great depression. He had a 49-year career in golf. He had a consistent short game and was an accurate putter, which reflects the skills required for success when playing the Tony Butler Golf Course. In high school, Tony was captain of the Austin High School golf team and, at the age of 20, defeated Tinsley Penick for the Austin City Championship. His college career at the University of Texas in Austin was brief because he turned professional in 1928 and moved to Port Arthur. Following his professional career, he was the first golf coach at the University of Texas.

June 20, 1973, Harlingen Municipal Golf Course was renamed in Tony Butler’s honor. He retired in 1975 to become a professional emeritus. In 1998, the Rio Grande Valley Sports Hall of Fame chose him as one of its inductees. The Harlingen Municipal Golf Course opened to the public in 1929 as a 9-hole layout designed and built by John Bredemus. Today it has an 18-hole course, as well as the original 9-hole. It has a complete Pro Shop, a short-order kitchen, a conference room for special events, a driving range, and chipping and putting greens. The South Texas terrain makes it an easy walking course, if you so choose. The 9-hole course is a par 35 with two sets of tees. They are 2881 yards with a rate/slope for men of 33.6/108 and 2467 yards with a rate/slope for women of 33.5/104. The greens are Emerald Zoysia. The course is open to the public. The 18-hole course is a par 71with three sets of tees. They are 6320 yards with a rate/slope for men of 70.5/128, 5837 yards with a rate/ slope for men of 68.2/122, and 5113 yards with a rate/slope for women of 68.9/112. The greens are Champions Ultra-Dwarf Bermuda. There is also a fourth set of tees called Senior Tees, which have not been rated but make the course easier for a number of senior citizens who play the course strictly for enjoyment. Eddie Medlin is the head professional and director of golf at the course, located at 2640 South “M” Street in Harlingen. You may book tee times by calling 956-216-5970. •

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 18hole 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!

www.welcomehomergv.com • • • November 22, 2017

A Tejano Christmas Carol Returns to the Pharr Community Theater Special to Welcome Home RGV

By popular demand, the Pharr Community Theater will once again present the play A Tejano Christmas Carol for a second year. “The play was such an artistic success last year that Gary Rodriguez, City of Pharr media director, asked if PCT could repeat the play this Christmas,” said Pedro Garcia, CEO and artistic director of Pharr Community Theater. Garcia has been directing the theater company for the last 10 years and also plays the role of Mr. Codos, the equivalent of Charles Dickens’ Scrooge. Many of last year’s cast members are returning, including Garcia as Codos, Danika Leal as Tiny Tina, and Armandina Sesin as Adelita, the ghost of Christmas present. “Our Christmas play has a modern day Rio Grande Valley twist and, of course, all the intrigue of Dickens’ original Christmas story, including the three ghosts, the children and their families, the battle between good and bad, and an outcome that surprises everyone,” said Garcia. This fun and entertaining play is also a tribute to the mighty Rio Grande River and its nearly 1,900 mile journey that begins in Colorado and

ends in Brownsville. “So many people take our most precious water source for granted, but in reality, without it, we would be lost,” said Garcia. The two-act play with a cast of 16 local actors is set in the city of Pharr and is told predominately in English with a little Spanish. Performances will be presented at the theater from Wednesday, December 6, through Saturday, December 9, at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, December 10, at 3 p.m. PCT tickets are $7 general admission and $5 for students, seniors, and our military. Tickets will be sold at the door starting one hour before each play on a firstcome first-served basis for the 60-seat theater at 213 West Newcombe in Pharr. For more information, please call 956-239-0412 or 956-655-9308.

A TEJANO CHRISTMAS CAROL CONTINUED ON PAGE 10 >>

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Introducing New Managers at Seven Oaks Resort Special to Welcome Home RGV

The Winter Texan Season officially started November 1, and with a new season, Seven Oaks Resort is welcoming new managers. It is with pleasure that they introduce Linda and Mitch Poirier. Linda has been a corporate event planner for the past 20 years, organizing large meetings and trade shows all over the world. Mitch was lucky enough to travel with her to the Canary Islands, Paris, Puerto Vallarta, Bermuda, Las Vegas (12 times!), and many other wonderful locations. Mitch has been in the HVAC business for 40+ years, owning his own business for 21 of those years. He received his training in the U.S. Navy to learn servicing and installation of

HVAC and mechanical systems and later studied mechanical engineering for HVAC and Mechanical Systems Design. Together, they have two grown sons and two gorgeous daughters-in-law and are Nana and Peps to the two cutest little boys on the planet. Linda is looking forward to meeting everyone at Seven Oaks Resort. Most of the time, she will be found in the office with the door open, so stop by and say hello. Mitch is going to be out and about the park as the maintenance manager, so you may have to move about a bit to catch up to him; but he, too, wants to meet you all. •

November 22, 2017 • • • Welcome

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

www.welcomehomergv.com • • • November 22, 2017

November 22, 2017 • • • Welcome

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

U.S. Air Force Veteran Bill Houchens The Air Force Completely Changed the Direction of My Life by Jess Merrill, Snow to Sun RV Resort

During

his final year at the University of Illinois, Bill Houchens, a resident at Snow to Sun RV Resort in Weslaco, discovered that his 3.75 grade average would not get him into med school. So, after completing a B.S. in biochemistry, he determined that the hippie life of the 1970s was not a wise career move. Instead, he joined the U.S. Air Force. Bill performed extremely well on his military aptitude tests, which led to an assignment in electronics. He was stationed at McConnell Air Force Base near Wichita, Kansas, where he became shop chief in avionics. He worked with radar components, electronic instrumentation, and communications equipment. “It was good duty, and I often kick myself for not staying in,” said Bill. But, at the end of his hitch, Bill was recently divorced and contemplating what to do with the rest of his life. A quarter-page advertisement in the Wichita Eagle announced that Rockwell International was in town interviewing. Bill said he walked into the interview with no expectations and walked out with a job in the design and development of the B1-B

bomber in Los Angeles. “It was a lot of fun playing with big toys,” he said. Bill stayed with Rockwell a couple of years before returning to Illinois. Over the next 15 years, he worked in New York and Pennsylvania. Then, in 1999, he moved to Montevideo, Minnesota, where he joined MTI, a manufacturer of aircraft motors, dental equipment, and gear for lightweight applications. His job at MTI required frequent travel to the Rio Grande Valley to visit an MTI maquiladora in Matamoros, Mexico. He had experienced all four seasons in the Valley and liked the heat. He remembers golfing early Saturday mornings in the winter. “When I got off the golf course, it was already above 90 degrees,” Bill said. “I would dash to the Harlingen airport, jump on a plane--still wearing my golf shorts and shirt--and arrive in Minneapolis, where it was 16 degrees.” He worked for the company nearly 30 years, climbing the ranks from test engineer to senior vice president, until health issues forced him to retire. Then, sitting in a Montevideo doctor’s office, flipping through a magazine,

he saw a tiny classified ad for a place at Snow to Sun in Weslaco. Bill called the Canadian couple who owned it, and they convinced him to fly down to see it. He returned home, thought about it a couple of weeks, and then called them back. They agreed on the purchase. Bill recently bought and remodeled a larger home in Snow to Sun. He has a new, modern kitchen and tile floors, but the highlight is a music room where he can kick out some “big

sounds.” He began playing drums when he was nine and picked up the guitar at age 13. His band began playing regional gigs in Central Illinois when he was 15, and it provided a good, steady income throughout high school and college. He still plays but not professionally. Bill acknowledges he has had a fun, exciting career, but he credits the U.S. Air Force for completely changing the direction of his life. •

One-Act Opera, The Ugly Princess,

at UTRGV in Edinburg in December Special to Welcome Home RGV

Zoo Nights and Lights

Join UTRGV Opera Theater for the world-premiere performances of Dr. Lelia Sadlier’s hilarious one-act opera, The Ugly Princess. Princess Altamira has been told she is the most gloriously beautiful woman in all of the world. The truth, though, is that she is anything but! Come hear wonderful music and hysterical dialogue as her suitors fall by the wayside and we learn that beauty on the inside, and taking care of those in need, are the most precious attributes anyone can have. • Show Times: December 1 and 2 • 7:00 p.m. 1201 W University Drive, Edinburg UTRGV Library Auditorium 956-665-3471

at the Gladys Porter Zoo Special to Welcome Home RGV

What: Zoo Nights and Lights When: December 1, 2, 3 6:00 - 9:00 p.m. Where: Gladys Porter Zoo 500 Ringgold Street, Brownsville

>> A TEJANO CHRISTMAS CAROL CONTINUED FROM PAGE 7

The play will also go on tour, with performances in the following three Winter Texan retirement parks: Monday, December 11, at 7 p.m. at Bit-O-Heaven Park, 1051 W Business Hwy. 83 in Donna. Tickets $7. Contact 603-396-2786. Monday, December 18, at 7 p.m.

at Blue Bonnet RV Resort, 3366 N Bentsen Palm Drive in Mission. Tickets $7. Contact 319-321-2485. Wednesday, December 20, at 7 p.m. at Pharr South Park, 1402 S Cage Boulevard in Pharr. Tickets $7. Contact 956-787-7839. The play will also be presented

Tuesday, December 19, at 7 p.m. at Pharr Events Center, 3000 N Cage Boulevard in Pharr. Tickets $3. Contact 956-402-4500. Doors open, and tickets will be available for purchase, one hour prior to each touring-play performance. •

You’re invited to get in the spirit of the holidays by visiting Gladys Porter Zoo’s brightest event – Zoo Nights & Lights! Come out to enjoy live performances from local bands and choirs while taking in the dazzling displays of approximately 135 lighted animal and holiday fixtures along with 800 luminaria bags placed all around Zoo grounds. Admission is $2.50 per person or free with the donation of a new, unwrapped toy for the Toys for Tots campaign. Zoo members get in free with membership cards. Tickets are available for pre-sale online at gpz.org or can be purchased at the gate each night of the event. •

www.welcomehomergv.com • • • November 22, 2017

Coming to a Park near You Special to Welcome Home RGV

Rowe High School’s premier show choir, Razz-Ma-Tazz, will once again travel throughout the Valley performing their Christmas program. Stacy Gonzalez, head choir director at Rowe High School, said, “Razz has been performing at local parks for the past 25 years.” As recipient of the

“Valley Star Award, Group of the Year (Not Related)” award for the past two years, Razz-Ma-Tazz is a performance you don’t want to miss this holiday season. For updated performance information, visit the Rowe Choir website at https://goo.gl/95J7Eg •

November 22, 2017 • • • Welcome

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

www.welcomehomergv.com • • • November 22, 2017

Welcoming the Holidays

14th Annual Jackson Street Holiday Stroll and Downtown Christmas Lighting Ceremony Special to Welcome Home RGV

Downtown

Harlingen welcomes the holiday season with their 14th Annual Jackson Street Holiday Stroll and Downtown Christmas Lighting Ceremony November 29 from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. Hot chocolate, holiday treats, and music will welcome

everyone Downtown, with special sales and, of course, Santa strolling around having his picture taken with the kids. Downtown will light up with a countdown to officially light the Downtown Christmas tree and decorations. There will be holiday music and singing. Everyone is welcome to help ring in the holidays in beautiful and historic Downtown Harlingen. For more information, contact the Downtown Harlingen office at 956-216-4910. •

71st Annual RGV Jaycees Christmas Parade on Jackson Street December 1

Special to Welcome Home RGV

Embrace the Christmas Spirit at the 71st Annual RGV Jaycees Christmas Parade on Jackson Street in Harlingen Friday, December 1, from 7:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.. This is one of the oldest ongoing street parades in the Rio Grande Valley. The theme for this year’s parade is “Christmas Around the World.” There will be bands, lighted floats, automobiles, horses, and more. Food vendors will be available. Parade entries and vendors, please visit www.rgvjaycees.com. For more information, contact the Downtown Harlingen office at 956-216-4910. •

November 22, 2017 • • • Welcome

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

Perspectives

by Rev. Richard “Doc” Strait, U.S. Navy, Retired

Trials

ave you ever experienced tough times? Wonder why you are going through what you are going through? There can be many reasons, yet I want to look at just one with you. In the Bible, James 1:2-4 reads, “2My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trails, 3knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. 4But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing.” James 1:2-4 NKJV. Let us break this down. In verse two, the word joy comes from the Greek word pasan and the meaning

for the word here means that the trials are to be pure joy. This pure joy means sincerity. Christians are not merely to put on their best face or look on the bright side; they should sincerely rejoice when trouble comes. This suffering is preparing us for the anticipated return of Christ. In verse three, the word know tells us to take assurance that God uses trials to perfect our faith and make us stronger. God is refining our faith like a blacksmith does metal, working all the impurities out. At the end of verse three, we see the word patience. Patience here is

about things and not so much about long-suffering which would refer to people. Be patient and take comfort in knowing that the end result will be a stronger faith for us. In verse four, perfect is a word that was first conceived in terms of Old Testament cultic requirements (e.g., Exodus. 12:5), which later came to mean completeness in wholehearted dedication to Israel (Deut. 18:13), as in Noah and others (e.g., Gen. 6:9); here, James continues the Old Testament idea of perfection as a right relationship with God, expressed in undivided obedience and unblemished life. This is steadfast obedience. The final part of verse four is mature and complete. Those who are suffering should have joy (v. 2)

because trials serve as a means to Christian maturity. Mature and complete individuals show integrity and single-minded devotion to God; they are characterized by godliness. As you go through each day, remember that when you face trials, they are designed to improve your faith and help you become a stronger Christian. •

Chaplain Richard Strait and his wife, Karen, are both former military veterans and currently reside in Michigan. They have a special ministry for veterans who suffer with PTSD and understand firsthand the pain of that condition, as well as combat-related injuries. We are privileged to have them as chaplains with Christian Resort Ministries.

NOVEMBER

8 &9 10 11 14 17 18 26 27

Jeff Dunham: Passively Aggressive Dr. Cesar Lozano MC Magic McAllen Town Band “Journey Across America” Valley Symphony Orchestra Concert III “Touch of Frost” Adrian Uribe & Omar Chaparro Imparables “El Show” Christmas Wonderland Holiday Spectacular Sirens of Song

2017-2018

FEBRUARY

Performances UPCOMING

11 14 18 20 25

2-7 10-14 16 17-18 20-21

John Milton “El Caballero de la Hipnosis” John Milton “El Caballero de la Hipnosis” Two on Tap Presented by McAllen Community Concert John Milton “El Caballero de la Hipnosis” John Milton “El Caballero de la Hipnosis”

MARCH

15 17 30

RGV Ballet’s “The Nutcracker” Cirque Dreams: Holidaze on Tour King of Love: A Christmas Musical Presented by Holy Spirit Catholic Church McAllen Town Band “Let Christmas Ring” La India Yuridia “Semos un Equipo” Moscow Ballet’s “Great Russian Nutcracker”

FEBRUARY

2 3 6 8 9-10

Valley Symphony Orchestra Pops Concert IV “America, America” 8th Annual Fountain of Mercy Ministries Conference McAllen Town Band “Moments in History” The Quebe Sister Presented by McAllen Community Concert Shen Yun

6 7-8 20 23

APRIL

2 &3 7 9

MAY

JANUARY

DECEMBER

1 6 13 5 11 17

Wizard of Oz Million Dollar Quartet Melba’s McAllen Dancer Theater Performance 3 Redneck Tenors Presented by McAllen Community Concert Dancing with the Stars: Live! Light Up the Night

Valley Symphony Orchestra Concert V “Spectacular Broadway” Duo Baldo Presented by McAllen Community Concert Stomp The Tony Pace Experience Presented by McAllen Community Concert McAllen Town Band “Celebration of Music”

Buddy: Buddy Holly Story Valley Symphony Orchestra Concert VI “Carmina Burana” Presented by Little River Band Melba’s McAllen Dance Performance Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons Deborah Case Dance Recital List includes confirmed events as of 10/27/2017. Event Calendar is updated daily on our social media channels

www.mcallenpac.net

For tickets, visit .com or visit the McAllen Convention Center box office 700 Convention Center Blvd. McAllen, TX 78501

www.welcomehomergv.com • • • November 22, 2017

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.

Contact the agent below to find out how we can market your home for sale or assist you in finding your new Winter Dream Home!

Serving the Rio Grande Valley from South Padre Island to La Joya. 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 Ester Salazar...........................(956) 789-0769

Season of Thankfulness Special to Welcome Home RGV

Tim Hoffman (956) 873-9550

MHSLSP00043078 thoffman@wthsinc.com

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

www.wthsinc.com

Thanksgiving is a time to reflect, to look back on the people and experiences that have been a part of your journey, and then to GIVE THANKS!!! We at The Lamb’s Loom have soooo very much to be thankful for, so we would like to share some of that with you. The Lamb’s Loom’s beginnings go back 12 years, over a few cups of coffee with a bunch of KnitWits just dreaming of the possibilities. See, the KnitWits--short for Knitting a Witness for Christ--are a bunch of friends who meet weekly to knit, loom knit, and crochet items to send with missionaries to help them in their work. Over the last 12 years. there have been thousands of beautiful handmade gifts sent around the world, way more than we ever dreamed! This all started by helping out a friend whose church was sending a medical mission team to Kenya. We all got started looming hats and prayer shawls and then sent them off, full of love and prayers. Since then, we have also been invited to teach others in their homes, at schools, and in workshops and have enjoyed all of the opportunities to teach and share what God has been doing through just a little bit of yarn. Over the years, we have met in coffee shops--thanks to all those places that gave up space for a bunch of KnitWits!--and sometimes, each other’s homes. We often talked about one day having a place of our very own, a place we could expand

who we serve, teach more people, and encourage them to reach beyond themselves to help others. Three years ago, that dream became a reality when our friend, Jacque, moved her flower shop and had just enough space for a few KnitWits, and we found ourselves standing in…The Lamb’s Loom….an “official” home of our own! After 12 years of bags of yarn, hats, and shawls stuffed in closets and in the back of our cars, it was amazing to see that coffee-cup dream become a reality. The funny thing is, we are already bursting at the seams! Thanks to everyone’s help, encouragement, and donations AND to new people joining in…you guessed it! The backs of our cars are still full!!! (A “problem” we are so thankful to have!) All of that means another answer to our dream. We are now able to expand who we serve and how! Our concept is simple: We have the yarn and gift shop to help raise funds, people bring in donations of handmade items we disperse, and, as a 501 (c)(3), we are able to accept financial help, too! There have been many projects over the years, and if we have learned anything, it is that we are blessed to have fun together, make new friends, play with yarn and fill that donation chest. God is in charge of distribution! Our heartfelt thanks to everyone who continues to help in this incredible journey!!! Happy Thanksgiving, every day, all year! Everyone is welcome to join in! The Lamb’s Loom is located at 1209 Pecan in McAllen, just inside JacLin’s Florist. As mentioned above, we are a 501(c)(3). You can also find us on Facebook, or give us a call at 956-607-6855. •

November 22, 2017 • • • Welcome

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

• • •

STATE SEAL

Authorized by the General Assembly in 1791, the Seal of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania is a symbol of authenticity, which verifies that proclamations, commissions, and other papers of state are legal and official. The face of the Seal displays symbols identical to the Coat of Arms, without the supporting horses, and is used most frequently as an imprint. The reverse side, or counterseal, pictures Liberty dominating Tyranny in the form of a lion, along with the warning, Both Can’t Survive.

• • •

Quick

State Facts • • •

STATE BIRD Ruffed grouse

STATE LICENSE PLATE

Pennsylvania’s license plate is simple, reading Pennsylvania across the top, with the state tourism website, VisitPA.com, displayed across the bottom. The divider between the three letters and the four numbers is a keystone, symbolizing the keystone state.

• • •

STATE FLOWER Mountain laurel

STATE TREE Eastern hemlock

Thank you to Robin Tilley from Tierney, a full-service communications agency in Philadelphia, for providing us with this information!

History of the Pennsylvania Flag Pennsylvania’s state flag is navy blue with the state’s Coat of Arms featured in the center. The Coat of Arms, which is probably the state’s most familiar symbol, is based on a design created in 1778 by Caleb Lownes of Philadelphia. It features a shield crested by an American Bald Eagle, flanked by horses and adorned with symbols of Pennsylvania’s strengths –a ship carrying state commerce to all parts of the world, a clay-red plough, signifying our natural resources, and three golden sheaves of wheat, suggesting fertile fields and Pennsylvania’s wealth of human thought and action. An olive branch and cornstalk cross limbs beneath –a message of

STATE FLAG

peace and prosperity. The state motto, Virtue, Liberty and Independence, is infused below the crest.•

www.welcomehomergv.com • • • November 22, 2017

STATE MOTTO

“Virtue, Liberty and Independence”

Top 5 Attractions in Pennsylvania INDEPENDENCE NATIONAL HISTORIC PARK Independence National Historic Park in Philadelphia is the most historic square mile in the most historic city in America. Locally referred to as Independence Mall, the park covers several blocks of Old City Philadelphia. All of the park buildings and sites are associated with Colonial Philadelphia and the American Revolution. Major attractions include the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, and the Second Bank of the U.S. Spanning approximately 54 acres, the park has about 20 buildings open to the public.

PITTSBURGH Pittsburgh - Named one of the top travel destinations in 2017 by Harpers Bazaar, Pittsburgh has something for everyone! If you’re an art lover, head to the Andy Warhol Museum. Flower lovers can head to Phipps Conservatory, a 13-room “crystal palace” that is one of the largest and finest Victorian glasshouses in the country or take in the scenic view of the skyline by taking the Duquesne Incline, an inclined plane railroad.

ALLEGHENY NATIONAL FOREST Allegheny National Forest in Allegheny is Pennsylvania’s only national forest. Situated in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, it is home to abundant foliage, lakes, and wildlife. The 12,000-acre Allegheny Reservoir is perfect for boating, camping, hunting, fishing, ATV riding, camping, and snowmobiling.

GETTYSBURG NATIONAL HISTORIC PARK Gettysburg National Historic Park in Gettysburg - The Battle of Gettysburg was a turning point in the Civil War, the Union victory that ended General Robert E. Lee’s second and most ambitious invasion of the North. Often referred to as the “High Water Mark of the Rebellion,” Gettysburg was the Civil War’s bloodiest battle and was also the inspiration for President Abraham Lincoln’s immortal Gettysburg Address. Today, the battlefield and the surrounding town are major tourist attractions and an educational and historical experience.

PRESQUE ISLE STATE PARK

Presque Isle State Park in Erie is the most visited Pennsylvania state park. Jutting out into Lake Erie, with seven miles of sandy beaches, 13.5 miles of biking trails, fishing, 11 miles of hiking trails, picnic pavilions, a marina, boat launches, and environmental educational programming, there is something for everyone at the park. It is open year-round from sun up to sun down.

PA Dutch Whoopie Pie

Whoopie pies originated in Lancaster County and are one of Pennsylvania Dutch Country’s bestknown and most-loved comfort foods. There is even a Whoopie Pie Festival every year in Lancaster to celebrate this delicious treat! The festival has a treasure hunt, a Whoopie Pie launch, a Whoopie Pie eating contest, and more fun activities themed around the snack. • 4 cups flour • 1 cup shortening • 1 pinch of salt • 2 eggs • 1 cup cocoa • 1 cup warm water • 2 teaspoons baking soda • 1 cup milk • 2 cups sugar • 2 teaspoons vanilla In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, cocoa, and baking soda. Mix and set aside. In another bowl, combine the sugar, shortening and eggs. Beat for about two minutes. Mix the dry ingredients with the egg mixture and add the warm water and milk and beat at a medium speed for two to three minutes. Add the vanilla and beat until the ingredients are thoroughly blended. Bake the batter as drop cookies. Drop by rounded tablespoons onto ungreased non-stick cookie sheets. Bake in a preheated oven at 375° for 10 to 12 minutes or until the center springs back when lightly pressed. Remove from the cookie sheets and cool on a wire rack. Filling • 2 egg whites • 1½ cups vegetable shortening • 4 Tbsp. flour • 2 tsp. vanilla • 4 Tbsp. milk • 4 cups confectioner’s sugar Beat the egg whites until stiff; then set them aside. Combine the other ingredients and beat vigorously for several minutes at high speed. Fold in the beaten egg whites. Whoopie Pie Assembly Spread a generous amount of filling on a completely cooled cookie and then top with another cookie. To preserve your newly created treat, wrap each whoopie pie individually in plastic wrap.

• • •

Apple Pie

When fall rolls around, Pennsylvania becomes abundant with freshly grown apples, straight from our millions of acres of farms. Did you know Pennsylvania ranks fourth in the nation in apple production? Pennsylvania trees grow 11 million bushels per year in hundreds of varieties. This makes Pennsylvania the best state for a fresh apple pie, topped with Pennsylvania’s famous crumb crust. Try this blue-ribbon Pennsylvania Apple Pie recipe – and we promise it won’t disappoint.

PA Farm Show 2014 Blue Ribbon Apple Pie Contest Winning Recipe

Dorothy Martin - Denver Fair - Lancaster County

Pie Crust • 2½ cups flour • ¼ tsp. salt • ½ cup vegetable shortening • 1/3 cup ice water • ¼ cup butter Cut shortening into flour. Add butter and salt; add water, a little at a time, working with hands to form dough. Pull in half to make 2 dough balls. Roll dough onto flour-covered cloth; place one crust into pie pan. Keep the other dough for the top of the pie. Pie Filling • ¾ cup sugar • 3 Tbsp. flour • ¼ tsp. salt sliced • ½ tsp. cinnamon

• Dash of nutmeg • 25 Kraft caramels, melted • 3½ cups Pennsylvania Apples, peeled, cored,

Mix sugar, flour, salt, and spice together in a small bowl; toss apples into the bowl. Lay apples into the dough-lined pie pan. Melt caramels and pour on top of apples. Top the whole pie with the other pie crust. Bake at 400 degrees for 30 minutes. Turn back oven to 350 degrees and bake for an additional 45 minutes or until the pie is golden brown and the apples are soft.

November 22, 2017 • • • Welcome

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

with

Sandy Olson Winter in South Texas CAN include some cool and drizzly days.

Soup is often the answer, as it warms us inside to make up for when the sun is not warming us outside. This one is easy and tasty and simmers in the slow cooker for six hours. Start it in the morning for lunch or at noon for dinner. •

UTRGV Holiday Concerts Sure to Delight All Special to Welcome Home RGV

Ring in the holiday season with the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV) School of Music! Performances will take place at the TSC Arts Center in Brownsville and the UTRGV Performing Arts Complex in Edinburg throughout November and December. The UTRGV School of Music will kick off its holiday concerts with a performance by the UTRGV Jazz Orchestra November 29 at 7 p.m. in Brownsville, followed by Home for the Holidays, where you will hear classic holiday tunes and sing along with the UTRGV Master Chorale Saturday, December 2, at 7 p.m. Stop by at 6:15 p.m. for a pre-concert performance in the TSC Arts Center lobby by the Community Flute Choir, featuring middle and high school students, UTRGV students, and flute lovers throughout the Rio Grande Valley! Treat yourself to a performance of the Christmas portion of G.F. Handel’s Messiah Sunday, December 3, in Brownsville. The UTRGV Master Chorale, Brownsville Festival

Chorus, and high school choirs from Brownsville, San Benito, and Harlingen will perform with the UTRGV Symphony Orchestra and soloists Cathy Compton, Jasmin De la Cruz, David Sadlier, and Daniel Hunter-Holly. If you want to take in all of the sounds and color of a traditional Mexican celebration, UTRGV Ballet Folklorico and Mariachi Aztlán’s A Mexican Christmas are perfect for you. Join us in Edinburg December 6 at 7 p.m. for this unique musical and visual experience! Close the 2017 UTRGV School of Music holiday concert series by taking the whole family to Edinburg and singing holiday carols by candlelight with the UTRGV Flute Ensemble and friends December 11 at 7 p.m. You don’t want to miss it! For more information about these concerts or for special accommodations, email patron@ utrgv.edu or call 956-665-3881. To purchase tickets, visit: patron.utrgv.edu. •

Meatball and Potato Soup • 31 bag, 18 oz. or so, frozen meatballs, thawed. Look in your favorite grocery story for frozen turkey, beef, or pork meatballs (the smaller the better) • 1 small yellow onion, diced • 1 large clove fresh garlic, minced • 1 rib of celery, diced • 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil • 2 medium russet potatoes, scrubbed and cubed • ½ teaspoon black pepper • 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth • ¼ teaspoon kosher salt • 1 cup rinsed and chopped fresh baby spinach • 2 cups milk (2% is OK to use) • 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional) In a large heavy skillet, sauté the meatballs in a bit of vegetable oil until brown on all sides. Remove from the skillet and set aside. In the same pan, sauté the onion, garlic, and celery in the olive oil for about 7-10 minutes or until tender but not browned. Add the veggies to the slow cooker, along with the cubed potatoes, salt, pepper, and cayenne, if you are using it. Stir to combine. Add the chicken broth and milk; stir again. Add the meatballs and cover the slow cooker. Cook on LOW for about 6 hours. Five minutes before turning the cooker off, add the spinach. This keeps it from becoming mushy strings in the soup, as it will cook just until wilted. Taste for seasonings and adjust according to your taste. Serves 9. NOTE: if you in a hurry, you can cook the soup on HIGH for 3 hours, but watch it so it doesn’t overcook and the meatballs don’t fall apart. 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.

www.welcomehomergv.com • • • November 22, 2017

Randy Hoelscher: The Border Cook

Mexican-Style Shrimp Cocktail Special to Welcome Home RGV

This Mexican shrimp cocktail – coctel de camarones – is very different from

a traditional American shrimp cocktail. The shrimp are served in a seasoned tomato-based sauce with fresh cucumber, avocado, and onion, garnished with cilantro, lime, and hot sauce, if desired. All 8 people in my tasting group gave it a hearty “thumbs up.” This recipe borrows heavily from a great new cookbook I just bought, The Best Mexican Recipes, published by the editors of America’s Test Kitchen. Visit TheBorderCook.com home page for more information on this great cookbook. Enjoy! Buen apetito! •

Robert Vela High School’s SaberStagers proudly present

Heathers The Musical - High School Edition Special to Welcome Home RGV

Mexican-Style Shrimp Cocktail • 1½ lbs. raw gulf shrimp – medium size – peeled, deveined, and tails removed • ¼ cup fresh cilantro - chopped – save the stems. The chopped cilantro is added just before serving. • 1 tsp. coarsely ground fresh black pepper or whole peppercorns • 1 Tbsp. granulated sugar • 1 tsp. kosher salt • 3 large Roma tomatoes – cored, seeded, cut into ½-inch pieces. • 1 cucumber – peeled, split lengthwise, seeds removed, and cut into ½-inch pieces • ¼ cup finely chopped red onion • 2 cups Clamato juice (not the spicy one) • ½ cup tomato ketchup • 2 Tbsp. fresh lime juice (about 2 limes) • 1 Tbsp. hot sauce – optional – to taste • 1 large avocado – halved lengthwise, seed removed, and flesh cut into ½-inch squares. Do this just before serving so the avocado does not discolor. Cooking the shrimp: Put 3 cups water in a saucepan. Add the cilantro stems you saved, the pepper, sugar, and salt, and stir. Add the shrimp. Heat the water until it reaches 165 degrees; cover and remove from heat and let sit two minutes. Immediately drain the shrimp into a colander and immerse in cold water to stop the cooking process. If you want, just cook the shrimp until they are firm and opaque. Sample to ensure they are done, and cool quickly. Remove the pepper and cilantro stems and pat the shrimp dry on paper towels. The shrimp should be thoroughly chilled. Making the sauce: Place the tomatoes, cucumber, onion, lime juice, Clamato juice, and hot sauce (if used) in a serving bowl, and stir in the shrimp. I cut the shrimp in half, reserving one whole shrimp to top off each serving. Add salt and pepper to taste. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. You can make this a day ahead of time. Serving the shrimp cocktail: Just before serving add the avocado and fresh, chopped cilantro. Serve in a small bowl or something similar to an Old-Fashioned glass. Decorate with the whole shrimp you reserved and lime slices. I used plastic cups and it worked fine. Serve with tortilla chips. This recipe served 6 to 8 as an appetizer. 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.

Based on the classic 1989 film, Westerberg High is ruled by a shoulder-padded, scrunchie-wearing junta, Heather, Heather, and Heather, the hottest and cruelest girls in all of Ohio. But misfit Veronica Sawyer rejects their evil regime for a new boyfriend, the dark and sexy stranger ,J.D. When Heather Chandler, the Almighty, kicks her out of the group, Veronica decides to bite the bullet and kiss Heather’s aerobicized a**... but J.D. has another plan--to put the Heathers in their place--six feet under. Brought to you by the award-winning creative team of Kevin Murphy (Reefer Madness, Desperate Housewives), Laurence O’Keefe (Bat Boy, Legally Blonde), and Andy Fickman (Reefer Madness, She’s the Man), Heathers The Musical is a hilarious, heartfelt, and homicidal new show based on the

greatest teen comedy of all time. It’s a moving love story, a laugh-out-loud comedy, and an unflinching look at the joys and anguish of high school. This musical marks Robert Vela High School’s SaberStagers’ third main-stage production for the 20172018 school year. The production will include a cast of 40+ actors, singers, and dancers. We are very excited to present this production at the Roberto Pulido Performing Arts Center, 801 E. Canton in Edinburg. Show Information: December 1, 2, 8, and 9 at 7 p.m. December 2, 3, 9, and 10 at 2 p.m. Admission-$8 Senior Citizens - $5 For more information, please call 956-289-2650. •

November 22, 2017 • • • Welcome

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

www.welcomehomergv.com • • • November 22, 2017

DANCE ENTERTAINMENT & SHOWS

CALENDAR OF EVENTS WEEK OF

November 22 - 28, 2017 WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2017

Pancake Breakfast, 07:30 AM, Palmera Heights Park, 1205 N Palmera Dr, La Feria. $3.00 pp, all you can eat pancakes, 2 sausage patties, applesauce or 2 biscuits and sausage gravy with coffee. For information call 956-793-4795. 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 $1.00 pp 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. Work outside in the gardens, inside with program preps, or assist at

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. •

a special event. All ages welcome. For information call 956-681-3370. Bluegrass Jam, 09:00 AM, Bentsen Palm RV Park, 3501 N Bentsen Palm Dr, Mission. Homemade goodies, for information call 956-585-0541. Culinary Arts Holiday Bake Sale, 09:00 AM, Culinary Arts Dining Room, Eddie Lucio Bldg Rm 184, Harlingen. Cookies, Quick Breads and other assorted pastries. Open until we run out. Conversational Spanish Class, 09:00 AM, Institute for International Studies, 1001 Paradise Circle, Mission. For information call 956-681-6707. Christmas Tree Forest, 09:00 AM, International Museum of Art & Science, 1900 W Nolana Ave, McAllen. View the annual Christmas Tree Forest at IMAS. This year, participating groups are celebrating the great outdoors! 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. Beginner Line Dance, 10:00 AM, Casa del Valle, 1048 N Alamo Rd, Alamo. For information call 956-783-5008. Knifty Knitters, 10:00 AM, Harlingen Public Library, 410 76 Dr, Harlingen. Please bring your own yarn, a set of round looms, hook and needle. No instructor. For information call 956-216-5823. Square Advance Dance, 10:00 AM, Pharr South RV Resort, 1402 S Cage, Pharr.

Garden Tour - Butterfly 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 956585-2284 or 956-369-1972. 1 Hour River Tour, 12:00 PM, Riverside Club, 214 Chimney Rd, Mission. $10.00 pp for Seniors, $12.00 pp for Adults, for information call 956-581-1033. Intermediate Line Dance, 12:30 PM, Casa del Valle, 1048 N Alamo Rd, Alamo. For information call 956-783-5008. Square C2 Dance, 12:30 PM, Pharr South RV Resort, 1402 S Cage, Pharr.

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS CONTINUED ON PAGE 22 >>

Bit-O-Heaven RV and Mobile Home Park

1051 W. Bus Hwy 83 Donna, TX 78537

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

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 Feb 9 Renaissance Rockers............... $10.00 Feb 14 Keys & Strings Dinner & Dance... $12.00

www.bit-o-heaven.net EVERY TUESDAY 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 Dec. 6 • Folkloric Dance Team RGV • $5.00 Dec. 13 • Ralph Custer Show • $7.00

**** ENTERTAINMENT ****

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

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

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

Dec 10 Dec 16 Jan 3 Jan 4 Jan 9 Jan 10 Jan 14 Jan 16 Jan 17 Jan 18 Jan 20 Jan 23

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 J C Harrison Show..................... $8.00

1645 S. Bentsen Palm Drive Palmview, TX 78572

956-585-0703

Peggy Creach • Kathy Tyler Activity Directors

EVERY FRIDAY : DANCE

Nov. 24 • Steven May and • $6.00 the Southern Knights Dec. 6 • Ralph and the Cruisers • $8.00 Dec. 8 • Dixon Company Band • $6.00 EVERY SUNDAY : KARAOKE 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 FRIDAY DANCE • 7PM • $6 Nov. 24 Dec. 1 Dec. 8 Dec. 15 Dec. 17 Dec. 22 Dec. 29 Dec. 31

unless stated otherwise

Sweetwater Steven May & Southern Knights Bottomline Band Jealous Heart 3pm-5pm Texas Ramblers Big Band Free Dance Grey Rock Bob Dolle & Hall of Fame Band Steven May & Southern Knights New Year’s $16

ENTERTAINMENT • 7:00PM

Dec. 3 Dec. 12 Jan. 9 Jan. 16 Jan. 21

Razz Ma Tazz $6 LaDawn $6 Bill Chrastil $7 2 Bad Apples $6 Goldwing Express Mexican Fiesta

UPCOMING SALE / SHOW

LIVE MUSIC

Every Sunday • 2PM - 6PM Sun., Nov. 26 • Renaissance Rockers Sunday, Dec. 3 • Sweetwater Sun., Dec. 10 • Renaissance Rockers MORE LIVE MUSIC Starting in January

Moe Bandy Concert

Saturday, March 3 • 8:30pm • $45.00 Doors open at 6:00pm

TRY OUR TEXAS SIZE PORK TENDERLOIN

Friday Fish Fry

Catfish, Cod, Shrimp, or Combo Dinners w/baked beans, hush puppies, cole slaw, & french fries

Riverside Dreamer RIVER TOURS

Rummage Sale • Dec. 2 • 7:00AM to Noon Craft Show • Saturdays • 8:00AM to Noon

1 Hour Tours

2 Hour Tours

UPCOMING JAMS IN 2018!

Mon • Tues • Wed • Thurs • Fri • Sat

Tues • Thurs Seniors: $19 Adults: $23

Dec. 2, 2017 • Jan. 6, 2018 • Feb. 3, 2018 • Mar. 3, 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

12:00 PM

Seniors: $10 Adults: $12

1:00 PM

CASH ONLY Reservations Suggested Passenger Minimum for Departures: 15 for 1 Hour • 25 for 2 Hours

PRIVATE TOURS AVAILABLE CALL TODAY 956-581-4477 956-581-1033 • www.ontheriver.net 214 E. Chimney Rd. • Mission Riverside in-MissionTx

November 22, 2017 • • • Welcome

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

DANCE ENTERTAINMENT & SHOWS SCHEDULE OF EVENTS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 21 Jam Session, 01:00 PM, Eastgate Sunset Geocaching, 04:30 PM, MH & RV Park, 2801 E Harrison McAllen Nature Center, 4101 W US Ave, Harlingen. For information call Highway 83, McAllen. Geocaching is 815-228-6221. a new-age scavenger hunt! Geocaches Entertainment w/Leslie Blasing, 01:00 are small, enclosed capsules hidden PM, Palm Street Pier, 204 Palm in strange places, that are located with Street, South Padre Island. For a smartphone or handheld GPS. Park information call 956-761-4347. Admission is a $1.00 pp suggested Social Hour w/Diego, 03:00 PM, donation. This program is provided Siesta Village, 2712 S International free of charge. For information call Blvd, Weslaco. Pass the hat, popcorn, 956-681-3333. hot dogs, coneys, nachos and soft Entertainment w/The Coin’s, 05:00 drinks available. For information call PM, American Legion Post 37, 1305 217-972-4300. E Jasmine Ave, McAllen. Country, for Happy Hour w/Carlos Canas, 03:00 PM, information call 956-682-7841. Snow to Sun, 1701 N International Tacos & Chalupas Wednesday, 05:00 Blvd, Weslaco. Pass the hat, BYOB, free PM, American Legion Post 37, ice, for information call 417-499-3395. 1305 E Jasmine Ave, McAllen. For Happy Hour w/Regan James, 03:30 PM, information call 956-682-7841. Paradise South RV Resort, 9099 N Mile Weslaco Elks Spaghetti Night, 05:30 2 W Rd, Mercedes. Good will donation, PM, Weslaco Elks Lodge, 210 S sandwiches & set ups for sale, for Border Ave, Weslaco. For information information call 956-565-2044. call 956-968-7115. Maxan Street Farmers’ Market, 04:00 Holiday Village 2017, 06:00 PM, PM, The Garden, Port Isabel. Dean Porter Park, 501 E Ringgold The Garden on Maxan Street in St, Brownsville. Brownsville’s Holiday Port Isabel’s Lighthouse Square. Village officially opens Monday, Additional parking at Pirate’s November 20, watch the first lighting Landing. For information and vendor of the cottages this year! Food, fun opportunities, call 956-433-9675. & festivities. Cottages completely

JAM SESSIONS

MEALS

decorated inside and out. Have your picture taken with Santa! 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. Karaoke, 06:30 PM, Tropical Valley Acres, 1240 E Bus Hwy 83, Mission. Dance w/Albert Mikesh, 07:00 PM, Fiesta Village RV Park, 205 S Stewart Rd, Mission. $5.00 pp, for information call 701-367-9989. Bingo, 07:00 PM, Fig Tree RV Resort, 15257 N Expressway 83, Harlingen. For information call 956-423-6699. Dance w/Bottomline Band, 07:00 PM, Tip O’Texas RV Resort, 101 E Sioux Rd, Pharr. $6.00 pp, for information call 956-787-6461.

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 23, 2017

Thanksgiving Pot Luck Luncheon, 12:00 PM, American Legion Post 37, 1305 E Jasmine Ave, McAllen. Everyone welcome! For information call 956-682-7841. Holiday Village 2017, 06:00 PM, Dean Porter Park, 501 E Ringgold St, Brownsville. Food, fun & festivities. Cottages completely decorated inside and out. Have your picture taken with Santa! Entertainment w/Leslie Blasing, 07:00 PM, McAllen Mobile Park, 4900 N McColl Rd, McAllen. $8.00 pp, for information call 956-688-6812. Entertainment w/Trio Tres en Punto, 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, NOVEMBER 24, 2017

Christmas Tree Forest, 09:00 AM, International Museum of Art & Science, 1900 W Nolana Ave, McAllen. View the annual Christmas Tree Forest at IMAS. This year, participating groups are celebrating the great outdoors! For information call 956-681-2800. 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

SALES

information call 956-681-3370. Friday Fish Fry, 11:00 AM, Riverside Club, 214 Chimney Rd, Mission. Catfish, Cod, Shrimp or Combo Dinners, for information call 956-581-1033. 1 Hour River Tour, 12:00 PM, Riverside Club, 214 Chimney Rd, Mission. $10.00 pp for Seniors, $12.00 pp for Adults, for information call 956-581-1033. Variety Jam Session, 01:00 PM, Bentsen Palm RV Park, 3501 N Bentsen Palm Dr, Mission. Coffee & goodies available, new jammers welcome, for information call 956-585-0541. Country Jam, 01:00 PM, McAllen Mobile Park, 4900 N McColl Rd, McAllen. FREE Admission, dessert & coffee at intermission, 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/Johnny D, 03:00 PM, Snow to Sun, 1701 N International Blvd, Weslaco. Pass the hat, BYOB, free ice, for information call 417-499-3395. Happy Hour w/Steven May, 04:00 PM, Tip O’Texas RV Resort, 101 E Sioux Rd, Pharr. Donations, concessions open, Main Hall, for information call 956-787-6461. Open Faced Roast Beef Sandwich, 05:00 PM, American Legion Post 37, 1305 E Jasmine Ave, McAllen. For information call 956-682-7841. Sunset Yoga, 05:00 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 $1.00 pp suggested donation. This program is provided free of charge. For information call 956-681-3333. Karaoke Night w/Supper, 05:30 PM, Sleepy Valley Resort, 2301 N Abram Rd, Mission. Supper served at 5:30 pm, menu varies, $6.00 pp. For information call 417-588-1588. Friday Night Hike, 05:45 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 $1.00 pp suggested donation. The program is provided free of charge. For information call 956-681-3333. Holiday Village 2017, 06:00 PM, Dean Porter Park, 501 E Ringgold St, Brownsville. Food, fun & festivities. Cottages completely decorated inside and out. Have your

www.welcomehomergv.com • • • November 22, 2017

DANCE ENTERTAINMENT & SHOWS picture taken with Santa! Harlingen Art Night, 06:00 PM, Numerous Locations around Harlingen. FREE Admission, numerous venues downtown Jackson Street, 3rd Street to Commerce VanBuren, Commerce to ‘D Street. Map available call 956-367-1973. Entertainment w/Leslie Blasing, 06:30 PM, Louie’s Backyard, 2305 Laguna Blvd, South Padre Island. For information call 956-761-4347. Dance w/Texas Wheels, 07:00 PM, Fun-N-Sun RV Resort, 1400 Zillock Rd, San Benito. $6.00 pp, for information call 956-399-5800. Dance w/Drew & The Dancehall Dreamers, 07:00 PM, American Legion Post 37, 1305 E Jasmine Ave, McAllen. For information call 956-682-7841. Dance w/Rewind, 07:00 PM, Bentsen Grove Resort, 1645 S Bentsen Palm Dr, Palmview. $10.00 pp, for information call 956-585-0703. Dance w/Steven May & the Southern Knights, 07:00 PM, Bit-O-Heaven RV & MH, 1051 W Bus 83, Donna. $6.00 pp, Doors open at 6 pm, BYOB/ snacks, popcorn/soda for sale/free ice, door prizes. For more information call 603-396-2786. Big Band/Rock & Roll Jam, 07:00 PM, Palm Shadows RV Park, 200 N Val Verde Rd, Donna. Players by invitation only, for information call Roger 507-273-3895. Dance w/SweetWater, 07:00 PM, Texas Trails RV Resort, 501 W Owassa Rd, Pharr. $6.00 pp, for information call 956-787-6538. Trio Tres en Punto Noche Romantica, 07:30 PM, Margaritas Mexican Grill And Cantina, 3505 TX 107, Edinburg. For information call 956-862-6763.

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 2017

Saturday Morning Breakfast, 07:00 AM, Chimney Park RV Resort, 4224 S Conway, Mission. $4.00 pp, Menu varies weekly, great food at great prices. BYOP, for information call 956-585-5061. Acres Big Breakfast, 07:00 AM, Eldorado Acres RV Park, 610 N FM 492, Mission. For menu call 956-581-6718. Flea Market, 07:00 AM, Pharr South RV Resort, 1402 S Cage, Pharr. Breakfast available. Saturday Morning Breakfast, 07:30 AM, Paradise Park Inc, 100 E Hackberry Ave, McAllen. Serving pancakes, eggs, ham, sausage, biscuits and gravy, toast, applesauce and grits. For information call 956-682-8081. Burrito Breakfast, 07:30 AM, Paradise South RV Resort, 9099 N Mile 2 W Rd, Mercedes. $3.00 pp, for information call 956-565-2044.

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. Craft Show, 08:00 AM, Trophy Gardens RV Resort, 800 State Hwy 495, Alamo. Coffee and donuts available, lunch served around 10:30 am. Vendor tables available for $10.00. For information call 956-683-5300. 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. Work outside in the gardens, inside with program preps, or assist at a special event. All ages welcome. For information call 956-681-3370. 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. Grow’n Growers Farmers Market, 09:00 AM, Fireman’s 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. Christmas Tree Forest, 09:00 AM, International Museum of Art & Science, 1900 W Nolana Ave, McAllen. View the annual Christmas Tree Forest at IMAS. This year, participating groups are celebrating the great outdoors! For information call 956-681-2800. Saxet Gun Show, 09:00 AM, McAllen Convention Center, 700 Convention

JAM SESSIONS

MEALS

Center Blvd, McAllen. $5.00 at the door. Downtown Harlingen Walking Tour, 09:00 AM, Meet at J&B’s Cafe, 204 E Jackson, Harlingen. Take a trip back in time on a FREE guided walking tour of Downtown Harlingen! Learn about frontier days, mid-century boom times and more! Includes stops at several large, historical murals. Dress for the weather & wear comfortable walking shoes. For information call 956-793-6254. 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. 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. 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

SALES

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. Country Jam Lunch!, 11:00 AM, Green Gate Grove, 2135 S Bentsen Palm Dr, Palmview. OPEN TO THE PUBLIC, for more information call 956-584-1561. Butterfly Walk, 11:00 AM, McAllen Nature Center, 4101 W US Highway 83, McAllen. Join a staff naturalist for a 1/2 mile walk to explore butterflies! Loaner binoculars are available free of charge. Bring a camera if desired. Admission is $1.00 pp suggested donation per person. For information call 956-681-3333. Karaoke w/Carol & Art, 11:00 AM, Winter Ranch RV Resort, 600 State Hwy 495, Alamo. For information call 956-783-4587. John’s Super 5K Run/Walk Cancer Fund Raiser, 12:00 PM, Edinburg Municipal Park, 714 S Raul Longoria Rd, Edinburg. Calling All SuperHeroes... Registered participants will receive a SuperHero 5K Dry fit T-Shirt, Race Packet, and Refreshments. If you want to become a sponsor! Contact

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS CONTINUED ON PAGE 25 >>

Visit our spacious Hynes Event Center

- the place to party in the RGV!

Purchase tickets online at hyneseventcenter.com (for upcoming shows only)

DANCE / ENTERTAINMENT

JAM SESSION

Hynes Event Center Doors Open 6:00PM

Every Friday • Rec Hall November 24 • 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM December 1 • 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM

Dance w/Diego Saturday, November 25 7:00 PM • $6.00 pp

KARAOKE DINNER

Bar & Concession Available

Non-park residents: Tickets available 1 week prior to event

Dance w/The Cruisers Saturday, December 2 7:00 PM • $10.00 pp

Non-park residents: Tickets available 1 week prior to event

HAPPY HOUR

Pass the Hat • Hynes Event Center (Bar and Concession Available) Happy Hour w/Fred Goldsberry November 24 • 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM

$7.50

November 22 • NO MEAL November 29 • 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM

Turkey w Dumplings, Wild Rice, Peas and Carrots, Roll, Iced Tea or Coffee

December 6 • 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM

Beef Tips, Buttered Noodles, Sliced Carrots, Roll, Iced Tea or Coffee

KARAOKE

with Harry and Judy

Bar and Concession Available November 22 • NO KARAOKE November 29 • 5:00 PM December 6 • 5:00 PM

November 22, 2017 • • • Welcome

ALAMO

Alamo Palms RV Alamo Rec Vehicle Alamo Rose RV Casa Del Valle Trophy Gardens Winter Ranch RV

DONNA

Bit O Heaven Casa Del Sol MH Palm Shadows RV Resort Victoria Palms

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

HARLINGEN Tropic Winds

HIDALGO Lake Tejano

LA FERIA

Kenwood RV Resort Mesquite RV Park VIP La Feria

McALLEN

Adobe Wells

MERCEDES

La Floresta Paradise South

MISSION

Bentsen Grove Bentsen Palm Rv Park Dream Valley Ranch Leisure Valley Ranch Lemon Tree Estates Seven Oaks Tropical Valley Acres

PHARR

Texas Trails Tip O Texas Paradise Resort Estates

PORT ISABEL

Port Isabel Park Center

WESLACO

Ranchero Village Siesta Village Southern Comfort Magic Valley Park Siesta Village

www.welcomehomergv.com • • • November 22, 2017

DANCE ENTERTAINMENT & SHOWS SCHEDULE OF EVENTS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 23 John Castillo at (956) 330-4639 or Harlingen Farmers Market, 03:00 Email at Superhero5krunwalk2017@ PM, Downtown Harlingen, 2nd St yahoo.com You can Also Find us & Tyler Ave. A pedestrian friendly on Facebook under John Castillo or space in DOWNTOWN Harlingen. John’s Superhero 5k run/walkEvent Many new vendors including grassdetails and schedulePre-Packet Pick- fed beef, dried nuts and fruits, fresh up: Friday, November 24th, 2017 flowers, coffee and lattes, and more location pending Look for updates produce vendors. Live music. on facebook page!! Day of event: UTRGV Women’s Basketball vs. Florida Registration at 6:00 am Welcoming A&M, 03:00 PM, UTRGV Fieldhouse, ceremony at 7:00 am Prayer at 7:10 1201 W University Dr, Edinburg. For am National Anthem at 7:15 am information call 956-665-3747. Luminaria Ceremony at 7:20 am Pre- Sunset Nature Walk, 04:30 PM, run/walk warm up 7:45 am to 7:55 McAllen Nature Center, 4101 W am 5K Walk/Run begins at 8:00 am. US Highway 83, McAllen. Free 1 Hour River Tour, 12:00 PM, admission, Join a staff member for Riverside Club, 214 Chimney Rd, a fun, one hour walk exploring the Mission. $10.00 pp for Seniors, nature on our trails! For information $12.00 pp for Adults, for information call 956-681-3333. call 956-581-1033. Open Music Jam, 06:00 PM, Pedal Boat, Kayak and Stand Up AmeriCana RV Resort, 721 N Bentsen Paddleboard Rentals, 12:00 PM, Palm Dr, Mission. All welcome Town Lake at Fireman’s Park, including acoustic, light snacks 201 N 1st St, McAllen. Enjoy 30 served for donation, no admission minutes on the lake in a boat of charge, new parking arrangements, your choice. Rental fee includes for information call 956-581-1705. a life jacket which must be worn Holiday Village 2017, 06:00 PM, while on the lake. Rental fees: Dean Porter Park, 501 E Ringgold 4-seater Pedal Boat-$20, 2-seater St, Brownsville. Food, fun & pedal Boat-$10, Double kayak-$15, festivities. Cottages completely Single kayak-$10, Stand Up decorated inside and out. Have your Paddleboard-$10. For information picture taken with Santa! call 956-681-3333. Dance w/Grey Rock, 07:00 PM, Country Jam, 12:30 PM, Green Gate Aladdin Villas, 1415 Aladdin Villas Grove, 2135 S Bentsen Palm Dr, Blvd West, Mission. $6.00 pp, for Palmview. OPEN TO THE PUBLIC, information call 320-492-6415. Lunch served at 11:00 am. For more Entertainment w/Country Roland, information call 956-584-1561. 07:00 PM, American Legion Post 37, Jam Session, 12:30 PM, Weslaco 1305 E Jasmine Ave, McAllen. For Trailer Park, 600 S Bridge Ave, information call 956-682-7814. Weslaco. MC Joe Hinnekamp, for Dance w/Texas Wheels, 07:00 PM, Casa information call 320-808-9589. del Valle, 1048 N Alamo Rd, Alamo. Entertainment w/Leslie Blasing, 01:00 For information call 956-783-5008. PM, Boomerang Billy’s, 2612 Gulf Blvd, Dance w/Diego, 07:00 PM, Hynes Event South Padre Island. Weather permitting. Center at Llano Grande Resort, 2215 For information call 956-761-4347. E West Blvd, Mercedes. $6.00 pp, for Big Band/Rock & Roll Jam, 01:00 information call 956-565-1506. PM, McAllen Mobile Park, 4900 Dance w/Steven May & The Southern N McColl Rd, McAllen. Free Knights, 07:00 PM, Trophy Gardens admission, Desserts & coffee RV Resort, 800 State Hwy 495, served at intermission. Musicians Alamo. $6.00 pp, doors open at & vocalists by invitation only. For 5:30 pm, concessions and set ups information call 956-688-6812. available, BYOB, for information call UTRGV Men’s Basketball vs. 956-787-7717. Grambling State, 01:00 PM, UTRGV Dance w/Ron E. Band, 07:00 PM, Fieldhouse, 120 W University Dr, Tropical Valley Acres, 1240 E Bus Edinburg. To purchase tickets Hwy 83, Mission. $5.00 pp, for contact 956-665-3747. information call 956-583-5582. Fall Butterfly Walks, 02:30 PM, Edinburg Scenic Wetlands, 714 S SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 26, 2017 Raul Longoria Rd, Edinburg. Regular Craft Show & Yard Sale, 08:00 AM, admission, Join our naturalists on a Blue Bonnet RV Resort, 3366 N walk around the park as we search for Bentsen Palm Dr, Mission. Lunch butterflies. From queens to skippers, will be served, for information call we’ll go around and look to see how 319-321-2485. many we can find. For information Church Service, 08:30 AM, Bentsen call 956-381-9922. Grove Resort, 1645 S Bentsen Palm

JAM SESSIONS

MEALS

Dr, Palmview. Service with Jessie Hernandez, for information call 956-585-0703. Church Service, 08:30 AM, Paradise Park RV Resort, 1201 N Expressway 77, Harlingen. Cookie Fellowship at 8:30, service at 9:00, come as you are, all welcome. Church Service, 08:30 AM, Rio Valley Estates, 715 N Westgate Dr, Weslaco. Dr. Tom Cassidy leads service, all welcome, communion served on last Sunday of each month, for information call 956-532-9665. Church Service, 08:45 AM, San Juan Gardens RV Resort, 900 E Business 83, San Juan. For information call 956-781-1082. Church Service, 08:45 AM, Winter Haven Village, 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, Acacia RV & MH Park, 89 E Business 83, Alamo. Pastor Al Dickey, everyone welcome, for information call 918-284-9398. Church Service, 09:00 AM, Alamo Palms RV Resort, 1341 W Business

SALES

83, Alamo. Pastor Brian Dent, for information call 956-787-7571. Church Service, 09:00 AM, Alamo Rec Veh, 1320 W Frontage Rd, Alamo. Minister Randy Park, for information call 956-475-5018. Church Service, 09:00 AM, Casa del Valle, 1048 N Alamo Rd, Alamo. For information call 956-783-5008. 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, Eastgate MH & RV Park, 2801 E Harrison Ave, Harlingen. Pastor David Squire, Communion 1st Sunday of each month, everyone welcome. For information call 815-228-6221. Church Service, 09:00 AM, Hidden Valley Ranch, 7600 Long Dr, Mission. Coffee and refreshments available at 8:30 am, for information call 956-580-4477. Christmas Tree Forest, 09:00 AM, International Museum of Art & Science, 1900 W Nolana Ave, McAllen. View the annual Christmas Tree Forest at IMAS. This year,

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS CONTINUED ON PAGE 26 >>

TODAY!

Dr. Ruben D. Pechero • Dr. Guillermo Pechero • Dr. Carlos Quinones Your Orthopedic Surgeons

At Rio Grande Valley Orthopedic Center you’ll find the most advanced orthopedic care in the Valley. Our full-service practice includes surgical and non-surgical treatment options and rehabilitation. R.G.V.O. specializes in hip, knee, shoulder & joint replacement surgery. Our breakthrough in minimally invasive surgery through a computerized system means less pain, lower risk and faster recovery to a better quality of life.

Upcoming Knee Replacement Seminars DATE TIME December 8, 2017 ............3:00pm

DATE TIME December 15, 2017 .........3:00pm

RSVP TO ADRIANA AT 956-686-6510 REFRESHMENT S W I LL B E S ERV ED

FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE CALL OR VISIT OUR WEBSITE TODAY!

MON - FRI 8 AM-5 PM • SAT 5:30-9:00 PM

1005 E. Nolana Ave.

McAllen, TX 78504

956-686-6510 www.rgvo.com

November 22, 2017 • • • Welcome

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

DANCE ENTERTAINMENT & SHOWS SCHEDULE OF EVENTS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 25 participating groups are celebrating Rd, Pharr. For information call the great outdoors! For information 956-787-1521. call 956-681-2800. Farmer’s Market @ The Shores, 11:00 Church Service, 09:00 AM, Leisure AM, 8500 Padre Blvd, South Padre World, 400 E 18th St, Weslaco. For Island. Fresh produce, fresh eggs, information call 956-968-8412. fresh seafood! Healthy shopping for Saxet Gun Show, 09:00 AM, McAllen healthy foods. Located at ‘The Shores’ Convention Center, 700 Convention north of SPI Convention Centre. Center Blvd, McAllen. $5.00 at the door. Pedal Boat, Kayak and Stand Up Church Service, 09:00 AM, Paradise Paddleboard Rentals, 12:00 PM, Town South RV Resort, 9099 N Mile 2 W Lake at Fireman’s Park, 201 N 1st Rd, Mercedes. Service held in the St, McAllen. Enjoy 30 minutes on the Community Hall. First Sunday of the lake in a boat of your choice. Rental month will be Communion service. fee includes a life jacket which must For information call 956-565-2044. be worn while on the lake. Rental Church Service, 09:00 AM, Southern fees: 4-seater Pedal Boat-$20, Comfort RV Resort, 1501 S Airport 2-seater pedal Boat-$10, Double Dr, Weslaco. For information call kayak-$15, Single kayak-$10, Stand 956-638-3158. Up Paddleboard-$10. For information Church Service, 09:30 AM, Gateway call 956-681-3333. MH & RV Park, 400 FM 2925, Entertainment w/Leslie Blasing, 01:00 Raymondville. Chaplin Dick Baggett, PM, Boomerang Billy’s, 2612 Gulf for information call 325-277-4310. Blvd, South Padre Island. Weather Church Service, 09:30 AM, Penitas permitting. For information call RV Park, W Interstate 2 & 304 S 956-761-4347. FM 1427, Penitas. Pastor James Studio Sunday, 02:00 PM, L. Gebhart, for information call International Museum of Art & 956-585-1555. Science, 1900 W Nolana Ave, Church Service, 10:00 AM, Paradise McAllen. Explore the world of colored Resort Estates, 301 E Hall Acres pencil as you learn how to create

JAM SESSIONS

MEALS

realistic, textured drawings. For information call 956-681-2800. Live Music!, 02:00 PM, Riverside Club, 214 Chimney Rd, Mission. For information call 956-581-1033. Sunset Meditation, 04:30 PM, McAllen Nature Center, 4101 W Business 83, McAllen. 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 $1.00 pp suggested donation. For information call 956-681-3333. Karaoke, 05:00 PM, Bit-O-Heaven RV & MH, 1051 W Bus 83, Donna. The director is Bonnie Luce, BYOB, for information call 231-233-1833. Gospel Jam, 06:00 PM, Blue Bonnet RV Resort, 3366 N Bentsen Palm Dr, Mission. With Dwight Brackman, concessions available, for information call 319-321-2485. Holiday Village 2017, 06:00 PM, Dean Porter Park, 501 E Ringgold St, Brownsville. Food, fun & festivities. Cottages completely decorated inside and out. Have your picture taken with Santa! UTRGV Women’s Basketball vs. Prairie View A&M, 07:00 PM, UTRGV Fieldhouse, 1201 W University Dr, Edinburg. For information call 956-665-3747.

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 27, 2017

Pins & Needles Day Special, 09:00 AM, A Block Away Quilt Shop, 2706 N 10th St, McAllen. It’s Pins & Needles Day! Can you guess what is coming? We bet you can! For this day, you can save on any needles or pins we have in stock. We will take 15% off the regular price. So don’t get “stuck” paying full price on this day when you can save! Good instore and online. For information call 956-638-1961. Acoustic Jam, 09:30 AM, Green Gate Grove, 2135 S Bentsen Palm Dr, Palmview. For information call 248-921-6867. Beginner Line Dance, 10:00 AM, Casa del Valle, 1048 N Alamo Rd, Alamo. For information call 956-685-1111. Square Plus Dance, 10:00 AM, Pharr South RV Resort, 1402 S Cage, Pharr. 1 Hour River Tour, 12:00 PM, Riverside Club, 214 Chimney Rd, Mission. $10.00 pp for Seniors, $12.00 pp for Adults, for information call 956-581-1033. Intermediate Line Dance, 12:30 PM, Casa del Valle, 1048 N Alamo Rd, Alamo. For

SALES

information call 956-685-1111. Sea Turtle Fusible Applique, 01:00 PM, A Block Away Quilt Shop, 2706 N 10th St, McAllen. Level: Confident Beginner through Experienced Quilters, Maximum 4 participants, minimum 1 participant. Haven’t done fusible applique before and would like to learn? Or are you just looking for something different to do? Grab a friend and enjoy the afternoon creating sea turtles that will swim across your fabric that you can use as a table runner or a small wall hanging when finished. $35.00 pp, Instructor: Barb Bergquist. Square AC1 Workshop, 01:00 PM, Pharr South RV Resort, 1402 S Cage, Pharr. Jam Session, 01:00 PM, Wagon City North, 2905 N Conway, Mission. Everyone welcome, Jam host LeRoy Kuhlers, for information call 515-802-9421. Clogging Monday, 01:15 PM, Tip O’Texas RV Resort, 101 E Sioux Rd, Pharr. Each session is progressive, Newbie to Easy Intermediate. Variety of music, something for everyone. It’s FUN! For information call Jim: 956781-2275, bjraabe@sbcglobal.net, Text Free: 204-808-3996. Happy Hour w/Johnny D, 04:00 PM, Tip O’Texas RV Resort, 101 E Sioux Rd, Pharr. Donation, concessions open, Main Hall. for information call 956-787-6461. Monday Night Dinner, 04:30 PM, Bentsen Grove Resort, 1645 S Bentsen Palm Dr, Palmview. Menu changes weekly, for information call 956-585-0703. Fresh Fruit Wagon, 05:00 PM, Fig Tree RV Resort, 15257 N Expressway 83, Harlingen. Enjoy fresh fruit & veggies for a cost. Holiday Village 2017, 06:00 PM, Dean Porter Park, 501 E Ringgold St, Brownsville. Food, fun & festivities. Cottages completely decorated inside and out. Have your picture taken with Santa! Fused Glass Spoon Rest, 06:00 PM, McAllen Stained Glass, 800 N Main St, McAllen. Design your own beautiful fused glass spoon rest, which is both functional and decorative! We provide all materials and guidance in this two hour class. Register on our website http://mcallenstainedglass.com or give us a call at 956-687-8682. 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.

www.welcomehomergv.com • • • November 22, 2017

DANCE ENTERTAINMENT & SHOWS Bingo, 07:00 PM, Paradise Park Inc, 100 E Hackberry Ave, McAllen. For information call 956-682-8081. Square C2 Workshop, 07:00 PM, Pharr South RV Resort, 1402 S Cage, Pharr. 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.

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 28, 2017

Craft Sale, 08:00 AM, Paradise Resort Estates, 301 E Hall Acres Rd, Pharr. Lunch served, for information call 507-351-5246. 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. 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 $1.00 pp suggested donation. This program is provided free of charge. For information call 956-681-3333. 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. Christmas Tree Forest, 09:00 AM, International Museum of Art & Science, 1900 W Nolana Ave, McAllen. View the annual Christmas Tree Forest at IMAS. This year, participating groups are celebrating the great outdoors! For information call 956-681-2800. Fused Glass Tree Votive, 10:00 AM, McAllen Stained Glass, 800 N Main St, McAllen. Design a beautiful Christmas Tree votive in this 2 hour workshop. All materials are provided. No glass cutting experience needed. For information call 956-687-8682. Square Dancing Plus, 10:00 AM, Pine to Palm Resort, 802 S International Blvd, Weslaco. $5.00 pp, Butch Danielski, Rounds at 9:30 w/Ron & Georgine Woolcock.

Conversational Spanish Class, 11:00 AM, Institute for International Studies, 1001 Paradise Circle, Mission. For information call 956-598-1714. Jam Session, 11:00 AM, Leisure World, 400 E 18th St, Weslaco. Lunch served, for information call 712-261-2348. 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. Country Jam, 12:00 PM, Bit-O-Heaven RV & MH, 1051 W Bus 83, Donna. Jam is open to public, Jam Director is Ron Ford, popcorn & soda for sale, coffee and cookies at break. For information call 816-694-8770. 1 Hour River Tour, 12:00 PM, Riverside Club, 214 Chimney Rd, Mission. $10.00 pp for Seniors, $12.00 pp for Adults, for information call 956581-1033. 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. J-5 Jam, 01:00 PM, J-5 RV Park, 3907 N Taylor Rd, Mission. Host Marion Price, coffee & cookies served, for information call 956-682-7495. Square C1 Dance, 01:00 PM, Pharr South RV Resort, 1402 S Cage, Pharr. 2 Hour River Tour, 01:00 PM, Riverside Club, 214 E Chimney Rd, Mission. $19.00 pp Seniors, $23.00 pp Adults, for information call 956-581-4477. Jam Session, 01:30 PM, Fig Tree RV Resort, 15257 N Expressway 83, Harlingen. Acoustic instruments only, for information call 956-423-6699. Karaoke w/MCExpress, 03:00 PM, Country Sunshine RV Resort, 160 S Airport Dr, Weslaco. Tips, for information call 956-538-3158. 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 417-499-3395. Happy Hour w/Diego, 03:30 PM, BitO-Heaven RV & MH, 1051 W Bus 83, Donna. Pass the Hat, BYOB/ snacks; popcorn and soda for sale; free ice, door prizes. For more information call 603-396-2786. Conversational Spanish ClassIntermediate, 05:00 PM, Institute for International Studies, 1001 Paradise Circle, Mission. For information call 956-681-6707.

JAM SESSIONS

MEALS

Country Music Jam, 05:30 PM, Enchanted Valley Ranch, 7300 Monroe St, Mission. Free admission, meal available at 4:00 pm variable price, free coffee and snacks at break, ice cream for sale, for information call 563-340-0840. Country Jam, 06:00 PM, Canyon Lake RV Resort, 4770 N Mayberry Rd, Mission. For information call 956-580-7654. Holiday Village 2017, 06:00 PM, Dean Porter Park, 501 E Ringgold St, Brownsville. Food, fun & festivities. Cottages completely decorated inside and out. Have your picture taken with Santa! Fused Glass Clock Workshop, 06:00 PM, McAllen Stained Glass, 800 N Main St, McAllen. $70.00 pp, Come design a great fused glass clock piece! We will guide you in designing and preparing this interesting and fun piece. Register on our website mcallenstainedglass.com or call us at 956-687-8682. Bingo, 06:15 PM, Paradise Resort Estates, 301 E Hall Acres Rd, Pharr. Snack bar opens at 6:00 pm, for

SALES

information call 956-802-8001. Entertainment w/Dale & Gayle, 06:30 PM, Alamo Rec Veh, 1320 W Frontage Rd, Alamo. $6.00 pp, for information call 956-475-5018. Dance w/Texas Wheels, 07:00 PM, Winter Ranch RV Resort, 600 State Hwy 495, Alamo. $6.00 pp, for information call 956-783-4587. Sierns of Song, by Harlingen Concert Association, 07:30 PM, Harlingen Municipal Auditorium, 1204 Fair Park Blvd, Harlingen. A wonderful evening of jazz, blues & torch songs from American Idol favorite Piper Jones. Get Harlingen Concert Assn season tickets (6 shows) for $60, $70 or $80 @ harlingenconcert. com. Tickets for individual shows $25 at the door (if available). For information call 956-793-6254. Entertainment w/Tres enPunto 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. •

November 22, 2017 • • • Welcome

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

saving you more!

COUPON

CONNECTION

ur weekly coupon section will help you SAVE while you are here. Visit our website www.welcomehomergv.com/coupons for more printable coupons. •

www.welcomehomergv.com • • • November 22, 2017

This Week’s Recipe is Brought to You By:

• • • RECIPECONNECTION • • •

Bon Appetit!

with Executive Chef

Bettina Tolin

Beef

and Stout Chili It’s NFL season, the weather

is cooling down and snacks are one of the things we obsess over on the weekends. I’m a foody, so it’s the best time of year as far as I am concerned! I thought a tasty chili recipe would be in order this week. I hope you enjoy this one – it’s a solid Texas beef chili. No messin’ around here with chicken or turkey this time. It also incorporates a dark stout beer and what is not to love about that? Bon Appétit! • (Serves 10-12, 1 cup servings) • 1 1/2 tablespoons ground cumin • 1 tablespoon ground coriander • 5 pounds ground chuck • 2 tablespoons canola oil • 2 1/2 pounds onions, medium dice • 1 1/2 pounds red bell peppers, seeded, medium dice • 1 1/2 pounds yellow bell peppers, seeded, medium dice • 2 large jalapeño chiles with seeds, chopped (about 1/3 cup)

• 7 tablespoons chili powder • 2 teaspoons (packed) minced canned chipotle chiles in adobo sauce* • 2 28-ounce cans crushed tomatoes with added puree • 2 15-ounce cans kidney beans, drained • 1 12-ounce bottle dark beer (such as stout) • Sour cream • Chopped green onions • Coarsely grated extra-sharp cheddar cheese

Toast cumin and coriander in skillet over medium heat until darker and beginning to smoke, about 4 minutes. Allow to cool. Sauté beef in a heavy large pot over medium-high heat until no longer pink, breaking up with a spoon, about 8 minutes. Heat oil in large saute pan over medium-high heat. Add the onions, bell peppers, and jalapeños. Sauté until vegetables begin to soften, about 15 minutes. Add mixture to the pot with meat. Mix in toasted spices, chili powder, and chipotle chiles. Add the crushed tomatoes, beans, and beer. Bring chili to boil, stirring occasionally. Reduce heat and simmer 20 minutes, stirring often. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Ladle chili into bowls. Serve with sour cream, green onions, and cheese.

This dish can be made ahead. Cool slightly. Refrigerate uncovered until cold, then cover and keep refrigerated up to 2 days (or freeze up to 1 month). Reheat to a simmer over medium-low heat. •

• • • • • • •

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

November 22, 2017 • • • Welcome

connecting you to better • • • • • • •

AUTOMOTIVE

savings

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

HELP WANTED

MISCELLANEOUS

CLASSIFIED SECTION November 22 - 28, 2017

REAL ESTATE

SERVICES

Looking for something in the Rio Grande Valley? Our classified section has been the go-to source for our retirees to check out the Valley market by listing what you wish to sell, give away or post your garage sales. For more information on submitting your classfied, please email classifieds@welcomehomergv.com. The deadline for submission is Mondays at 5:00 p.m. •

FOR RENT 2/2 Cottage-like Apartment for rent 2/2 nicely decorated apartment fully furnished south west of UTRGV. Just bring your clothes & groceries! Very secured owners live next door. $650/mo. $350 deposit. utilities not included.956-249-6740 ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

Beautiful Brick Home on Resaca Custom 3 bedroom/2 bath brick home in Winter Haven Resort Brownsville over-55 gated community w/activities. Enclosed A/C sun porch overlooking Resaca. Partially furnished all appliances cultured marble fixtures extra-large garage with A/C workshop. Lots of storage many extras. $179000. For information call 956-371-4917. ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

FOR SALE For Sale Portable Satellite Antenna King Quest Directv Satellite dish used for 3 months last summer sold RV and do not need it. Paid $477 and will sell for $300 with buyer paying freight or pick up unit in South Texas Harlingen. For more information email linedancerdonna@yahoo.com. ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

HOMES FOR SALE

Retama Village 3 Bedroom Home 3 bedroom 2 bath 2 car garage; $216000; Open floorplan; tile living areas and carpet in bedrooms. Gigantic master suite with spacious generous closet. 2 other bedrooms with large closets. Huge patio and pergola overlooking greenspace. www.3911PelicanWay. info Carol Welch Realtor; Encore Fine Properties LLC. 956-900-8487. ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

Just Listed Retama Village 2 bedroom 2 bath 2 car garage; $229900; Open floorplan; tile living areas and carpet in bedrooms. Gigantic master suite with spacious generous closet. Screened porch. Fully furnished w/ gas cooktop and wall oven. Backs to greenspace. www.4005PelicanWay. info Carol Welch Realtor; Encore Fine Properties LLC. 956-900-8487. ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

Open House & Yard Sale Furnished 2 bedroom house in La Hacienda Senior park. 1026 El Paseo S. Tower road Alamo. $39500. December 2 2017 .25 cent and up yard sale. For information call Virginia 956-475-3665. ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

MOBILE HOMES 2008 Athens 15X66 Mobile Home 1200 Sq.Ft. two room addition three bedrooms two baths workshop carport. New air conditioner newer water heater. Casa Del Sol Donna. Lot #189 close to the hall. Asking $46900 for information call 570-660-8417. ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

Move In Ready $9500 Furnished mobile home 12x60 two bumpouts 2nd roof large carport shed. two bedrooms one bath tiled shower. Front kitchen vinyl flooring throughout Coleman heat/AC. Located in Alamo Paradise Acres Retirement park lot 65. Alamo. For information call 612-237-5532. ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

Mobile/Adobe Wells Country Club Owner owned property. Fully furnished and updated 2bed2bath. All stainless appliances ceramic floors in living area wood in bedrooms. Laundry room extra living room deck on back screened in

Pablo Tagle, Jr., DDS & Jorge Castillo, DDS

• Cosmetic & Family Dentistry • Services provided in a relaxed and welcoming environment. General Dentistry Periodontal Laser Therapy Porcelain Veneers / Crowns Removable & Fixed Dentures Orthodontics (Braces) Whitening

Pablo Tagle, Jr. DDS

2215 W. Fern Ave. McAllen, TX 78501 (956) 686-2813 www.drpablotagle.com

Jorge Castillo DDS

Care Credit Financing Available • Wells Fargo Health Advantage Available • Most Insurances Accepted

porch w/shades. 70ft. long garage w/ car door and cart door. 2 driveways in front. Golf cart included. A must see. call 309-369-5371

••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

MOTOR HOMES

Professional Painting Services Best Painting 25 Years Experience 956-464-4197 ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

TRAVEL TRAILERS

Van Size Motorhome For Sale 2003 Roadtreck Motorhome Dodge Chasis 318 V-8 Auto 107360 miles New aux battery New rear tires Awning bathroom refrigerator stove microwave and flat screen TV. $16000 Call 956-369-9766

Cedar Creek Cottage 2010 16x40 Three slides 16x40 double awning 16x36 covered patio dual A/C furnace new refrigerator Coran counters and dual Coran sinks shower queen bed large closet built in dresser dual recliners hide-a-bed. Move in ready. $25000. Call 956-495-3295.

PARK MODELS

WANTED

Beautiful Completely Furnished Park Model All new paint window treatments remodeled new furniture gated community priced to sell. Why rent when you can own! This beautiful home is located in Park Place Estates in Harlingen. This is one you have to see! For information call 719-659-0220.

Help Wanted - Work Camper Work camper needed at Victoria Palms RV Resort. 28 hours per week in the Activities Department. Come join the fun! Various hours and days for information call 956-249-2266.

••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

SERVICES Massage At Your Home $30.00 Try a massage at your mobile home or RV from Jason at J’s Traveling Massage. $30.00 for 50 minutes take cash or check work 12 months. Call 956-734-7435. Gift Certificates available for all occasions Relax! ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

I’m A Caregiver Seeking Employment Do you or a loved one need in home care? I have 10 years experience. I can assist in bathing toileting cooking cleaning errands doctor appointments companionship. Part/Full time. Please call Linda at 956-994-8612. ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

Gated Bayside SPI Rental Located on beautiful South Padre Island bay side 3rd floor walkup South Padre Marine #315 2 bedrooms 3 bath kitchen fully furnished WiFi cable washer dryer gated parking with pool access. Great location by Convention Center available OctoberFebruary. Winter Texan Discount now only $1200.00 per month. Call Israel 956-343-7450 for details. • •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• Publisher’s notice: All real estate advertised herein is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act, which makes it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation, or discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin, or intention to make any such preference, limitation, or discrimination.” We will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. All persons are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised are available on an equal opportunity basis. Equal Housing Opportunity.

www.welcomehomergv.com • • • November 22, 2017

Welcome Home® WINTER TEXAN

connecting you to better

savings

Classified Advertising 2017 - 2018

Classifieds run weekly and are posted weekly on our website www.welcomehomergv.com; please note that your submission is not complete until payment is received. Please complete this form today and let us help you save and/or sell! •

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November 28, 2017 December 5, 2017 *December 12, 2017 *December 12, 2017 January 2, 2018 January 9, 2018 January 16, 2018 January 23, 2018 January 30, 2018 February 6, 2018 February 13, 2018 February 20, 2018 February 27, 2018 March 6, 2018 *March 6, 2018

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November 22, 2017 • • • Welcome

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