Celebrating South Texas!
www.welcomehomergv.com
•••
Welcome Home WINTER TEXAN • • • October 16, 2019
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We’re just connecting the dots.
VOLUME 5 • ISSUE 1 • October 16, 2019 • • • your official connection to the rio grande valley • • •
hello
SUMMER
FROM KRISTI
SUPPER CLUB
Just because our
winter friends leave doesn’t mean the party has to end. It’s been a great summer with our Converted Texans, and in the pages that follow, you’ll find out we ate our way through the dog days of summer! We made new friends, found new favorite restaurants, and stimulated the economy as we went along. I’m so very thankful for the opportunity to bring people together, and it has been so heartwarming to see so many friendships born through our Supper Club. There’s something very special about sharing a meal with friends, and we are thrilled to have been a part of it. The success of our Summer Supper Club has my mind spinning, and that means even more fun and activities in the works for next summer. In the meantime, I hope you’ll join us at our first annual TASTE of Supper Club, which will be held Thursday, October 24, at Texas Trails Resort in Pharr. Tickets are just $10 and are ADVANCE PURCHASE ONLY! We’ll have sampling from the restaurants we visited this summer plus live music from our very own Curt James...and, of course, tons of door prizes! • We’re just connecting the dots,
Kristi
THANK YOU TO OUR
2019-2020
SEASON SPONSORS
les i All Sm at the
Summer Supper Club! “I
t’s a great way for us to keep the party going all summer long!” Kristi Coller owner of Welcome Home RGV, declares, referring to the highly successful Summer Supper Club. The idea for the Summer Supper Club is two-fold: to provide a gathering opportunity for Converted Texans and to support local restaurants during slower periods of operation. Open to everyone, the Summer Supper Club enjoyed a
meal at a designated Valley restaurant each Thursday from April 18 through October 17 from 3 to 5 p.m. Collier, who coined the term ‘Converted Texan,’ in reference to Winter Texans who choose to live in the Rio Grande Valley year round, said the Club is a way to support their decision. “Converted Texans do so much for our economy. The Summer Supper Club is a way to give back,” Collier said.
by Eryn Reddell Wingert
The events were structured for familystyle dining. In doing so, great meals were enjoyed as friendships were formed. “I have been to most of them. Great fun getting together with everyone,” shared Kathy Tyler of Bentsen Grove Resort. “Curt (James), as the host at most of them, is always fun. And, of SUMMER SUPPER CLUB CONTINUED ON PAGE 4 >>
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October 16, 2019 • • • Welcome
Home WINTER TEXAN • • • www.welcomehomergv.com
Celebrating South Texas!
Welcome Home
We Winter Texans!
®
WINTER TEXAN
your official connection to the rio grande valley
Publisher
Kristi Collier kristi@welcomehomergv.com
Administration
Amie Gray agray@welcomehomergv.com Colette Brookins colie@welcomehomergv.com
Those Crazy Ladies Special to Welcome Home RGV
C
ast members are rehearsing for Aladdin Villas’ first dinner theatre production, Those Crazy Ladies in the House on the Corner. This comedy will be performed Friday, December 6, and Saturday, December 7, at the Aladdin Villas Ballroom, 1501 Aladdin Villas
Boulevard West in Mission, at 5 p.m. Tickets are $15, and it is reserved seating only. Ticket sales began by phone (320-226-0366) October 14 and will also be provided in person at the ballroom from 9 a.m.-noon October 18. The three-course meal includes a salad, spaghetti bake with either marinara or alfredo sauce, and a dessert. Yum! •
City of McAllen Launches Enhanced Customer Service Tool
Easier than ever to reach McAllen 3-1-1
For more information on submitting your events and activities, please email:
Event Manager
Anne Marie Martin events@welcomehomergv.com
calendar@welcomehomergv.com
The deadline for submission is Mondays at 5:00pm. •
Business Development
Lucy Ann Wolthoff lucyann@welcomehomergv.com Curt James Riester curt@welcomehomergv.com
Weekly e-Blasts
Kristi’s e-Blasts are sent weekly October - March to our subscribers. Find out what’s happening across the Valley. These e-Blasts include helpful links and fliers for “Featured Events.” Sign up today at:
Travel Division
Kristy Meyer travel@welcomehomergv.com Stella Riester stella@welcomehomergv.com
info@welcomehomergv.com
Accounting
Matt Davis matt@welcomehomergv.com
Special to Welcome Home RGV
E
arlier today, the City of McAllen announced that it is now easier than ever for McAllen residents and visitors to contact its 3-1-1 Customer Service Call Center: Just dial 3-1-1! (Or simply download the McAllen 3-1-1 app, available for Apple or Android phones, and submit concerns there. As always, for emergencies, please call 9-1-1.) “It’s now as easy as 3-1-1,” said McAllen City Manager Roel “Roy” Rodriguez, P.E. “Just dial 3-1-1 from any phone for your City of McAllen needs.” The City of McAllen 3-1-1 Customer Service Call Center was established in December of 2012, but customers would previously have to dial the entire seven-digit number (681-3111) from either a mobile or landline to reach a customer service representative. Now, anyone in the McAllen area can simply call 3-1-1 to report a pothole or other concerns, request information on various city services, get park rental prices, find out where to get a passport, and so much more. “You’ve got city questions, we’ve got answers,” said Marco Tovias, McAllen 3-1-1 customer service coordinator. “You’ll speak to a customer-servicefriendly, live agent who can help you answer all kinds of City of McAllen questions, in either English or Spanish. Three-one-one is making life easier for all McAllen residents and visitors.” The McAllen 3-1-1 customer-service number is the only true 3-1-1 number in the entire Rio Grande Valley. In order to help residents remember the McAllen 3-1-1 Customer Service
Calendar Submissions!
Follow Us
Editor
Call Center, a social media campaign launched today, with announcements and ads that will be posted in the coming weeks, reminding residents in the area where to call for information or to report non-emergency problems. McAllen’s 3-1-1 call center received 120,578 calls last fiscal year; City of McAllen administration expects this number to increase by 50 percent in the next time frame, now that it is easier than ever to reach the customerservice number. The ad campaign was created by ImageHouse Media and is designed to help residents remember their favorite customer service tool. The 3-1-1 number is only functional inside of McAllen city limits, and the 3-1-1- McAllen Customer Service Call Center is staffed Monday – Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. only. For afterhours inquiries, please call 681-3111 and leave a message. Other afterhour numbers will still be operational, including: 681-2000, the nonemergency police number; 681-1717, water line breaks; 648-4010, sewer back-ups; and 681-1900 for code enforcement. The new, easier number was another way for the City of McAllen to provide the very best customer service to those who live, work, and play in McAllen. The enhanced service is designed to help all residents who utilize the various customer service tools and resources to communicate. •
on Social Media!
Chris Ardis news@welcomehomergv.com
Graphic Design
Jenny R Carpenter artwork@welcomehomergv.com
Welcome Home RGV has several ways to join the action on social media. Our WHRGV Facebook 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:
Social Media / Photographer Eryn Reddell-Wingert eryn@welcomehomergv.com
Promotional Division
Elizabeth Seal elizabeth@welcomehomergv.com Sarah Scott sarah@welcomehomergv.com Sabina Adames sabina@welcomehomergv.com
news@welcomehomergv.com Perks for Partners! •
Activity Coordinator
Fran Adams fran@welcomehomergv.com
www.facebook.com @whrgv @wintertexan
1st Responder Coordinator
www.facebook.com/groups/wintertexansrgv
www.instagram.com @welcomehomergv @wintertexans
Rita Huether rita@welcomehomergv.com
Logistics
www.twitter.com @welcomehomergv
Tom Stocker tgstocker@gmail.com
Welcome Home
®
rio grande valley
219 W. Nolana • McAllen, TX 78504
956-687-5115
Check out our website! www.welcomehomergv.com •••
© Copyright 2019 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.
Celebrating South Texas!
www.welcomehomergv.com
•••
Welcome Home WINTER TEXAN • • • October 16, 2019
It’s a Tough Job but Someone’s Got to Do It
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Harlingen Concert Association Volunteers Scout Musical Talent in Nashville Special to Welcome Home RGV
F
rom up-and-coming country artists to rock legends and tribute bands, how and where do Valley venues find musical talent to enliven the Winter Texan season? Well, in the case of the nonprofit Harlingen Concert Association (HCA), which produces six shows at the Harlingen Municipal Auditorium, it involves an annual trip to the “Live on Stage” National Conference and Talent Showcase in Nashville. There, professional musicians and entertainers from across the country and around the world audition for bookings in small and mid-size communities throughout the United States. Six of HCA’s volunteer board members undertook this “tough job” in August, paying their own way to Tennessee for the conference and auditions. HCA President Bonnie Brown and board members Larry Dahm, Gene Morgan, Julie NgCastillo, Cheryl Palacios, and Armando Ramirez had a fabulous time in Music City U.S.A. and were very impressed
HCA board with Atlantic City Boys in August 2019
by the variety and quality of artists presented. A total of 27 performers/groups were featured in the Talent Showcase this year. They included tenor Fernando Varela, electrifying pianists William Joseph and Ilya Yakushev, A Musical Tribute to Tony Bennett, and Canada’s
Sultans of String. Among the country artists were Grammy winner Larry Gatlin, Mandy Barnett, star of the original Always … Patsy Cline production, and Farewell Angelina, who Rolling Stone has named one of the “Top 10 New Country Artists You Should Know.” Other exciting acts
included Seraph Brass, Mads Tolling & the Mads Men, and nostalgic quartets Vinyl Radio, The Everly Set, and Atlantic City Boys. The HCA volunteers also had an opportunity to visit with the musicians one-on-one to discuss technical requirements and assess their interest in participating in educational outreach. Working with local schools and cultivating interest in the performing arts have long been part of Harlingen Concert Association’s mission. During the concert season, HCA sponsors free mini-concerts and master classes at private and public schools, in conjunction with their scheduled artists. Later this month, the full HCA board will meet to discuss this summer’s auditions and decide on the six artists/performances for its 20202021 season. For a taste of the Nashville auditions, visit the HCA website at HarlingenConcert.com. There you can HCA SCOUT MUSICAL TALENT CONTINUED ON PAGE 17 >>
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October 16, 2019 • • • Welcome
Home WINTER TEXAN • • • www.welcomehomergv.com
>> SUMMER SUPPER CLUB CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1
course, good food. Going to some newto-me places was nice,” “Our Converted Texans had never heard of some of these restaurants, and exploring with friends and seeing what everyone ordered exposed them to places they may not have visited by themselves,” shared Collier. Alvie Britton, owner of Cowboy Chicken, was pleased with the opportunity to introduce people from across the Valley to his establishment. “The turnout was great, and we look forward to taking great care of all the new customers we made last night!” The 25 restaurants served 40 to 100 attendees. “Overall, it was a fantastic success,” said James, who coordinated the events on behalf of Welcome Home RGV. “I thought if we could get 20 to 30, it would be great. Then we started seeing 40 to 50 and the last half of the run we saw, on-average, over 80 people attend.” The participating restaurants spanned from Mercedes to Mission. James tabulates over 1,700 meals were served with a conservative average spending of $12 per-customer, which generated nearly $21,000 in sales. Residents from 12 to 15 parks and resorts consistently participated during the Summer Supper Club. Tyler’s park
was no exception. “We had a great turn out from our park, and I think it will be even better next year!” The Taste of the Summer Supper Club will officially wrap up the summertime event, bringing together participating restaurants to serve tastings. There will also be live music and raffle prizes. The event takes place Thursday, October 24, from 3:00 - 5:00 p.m. at Texas Trails RV Resort, 501 W. Owassa Road in Pharr. Tickets are $10 per person, and only 200 tickets will be sold. To purchase tickets, call 956-6875115, and for more information, visit welcomehomergv.com. •
Celebrating South Texas!
Celebrating South Texas!
www.welcomehomergv.com
Boys & Girls Club of McAllen to Host 7th Annual McAllen Tamale Fest Special to Welcome Home RGV
B
oys & Girls Club of McAllen (BGCM) is proud to announce its 7th Annual McAllen Tamale Fest. This oneday event will take place Saturday, November 23, at the historic Archer Park in Downtown McAllen, 101 N. Main Street. The McAllen Tamale Fest is BGCM’s signature event, which has proven to be a success since its inauguration in 2013. This is a family event that celebrates tamales, culture, and local traditions. The McAllen Tamale Fest consists of a tamale-spreading contest and a very fun tamale-eating contest! Attendants
will enjoy live entertainment, artisan booths, food vendors, tamale vendors, and children’s activities. There is no entrance fee, and the whole community is encouraged to attend. BGCM is currently seeking tamale vendors, food vendors, artisans, and sponsors to assist this family-friendly event. If interested, please contact Yirla R. Gonzalez Nolan at 956-682-5791. Proceeds will benefit the local Boys & Girls Club of McAllen, which serves more than 11,000 kids in the community. •
About Boys & Girls Club of McAllen: The Boys & Girls Club of McAllen is dedicated to helping our community by mentoring youth to become productive and caring citizens. Boys & Girls Club of McAllen provides nationally recognized programs in a safe and positive environment through the support of caring and dedicated youth development professionals.
Turtle Time with Sea Turtle Inc. Special to Welcome Home RGV
S
ea Turtle Inc. is the first sea turtle rescue center for the state of Texas, officially established in 1977. This year, we are breaking records with the number of sea turtles rehabilitated. As of October 2, we have worked with 61 sea turtles! Pictured with this article is a recently released patient, Great Scott. One of our volunteer ATV patrollers, Steve Fowler, rescued Great Scott after the turtle washed up on the beach. Missing a front flippe,r prearrival, this turtle had other problems. Through a CT scan, we were able to determine that Great Scott had pneumonia. Sea turtles can catch pneumonia when experiencing a dramatic drop in water temperature. These sudden changes can cause a cold-stun event, with many sea turtles floating at the surface at
Great Scott is an Atlantic green sea turtle. Photo by Mary Duncan
once. In the winter of 2011, we had our largest cold-stun event on record for the Rio Grande Valley, with over 1,000 turtles coming into our hospital. With cold weather approaching, Sea Turtle, Inc. is holding trainings for extreme-stranding events. For more information on attending a cold-stun training, volunteering in our facility, and summer sea turtle patrolling, please contact Mary Duncan at volunteer@seaturtleinc.org. •
•••
Welcome Home WINTER TEXAN • • • October 16, 2019
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October 16, 2019 • • • Welcome
Home WINTER TEXAN • • • www.welcomehomergv.com
Celebrating South Texas!
Celebrating South Texas!
www.welcomehomergv.com
Mesquite Movement
7
Special to Welcome Home RGV
2019
complimentary light lunch at the KMC r. Daniel Farray, Conference Center. oncologist, will speak The event is free and on “Breast Cancer open to Winter Texans Awareness” during and Valley residents a free luncheon and will include a Tuesday, October drawing for door 22, at 12:30 p.m. at prizes, including gift the KMC Conference certificates for local Center, a two-story restaurants. building on the west The health talk is side of the Knapp being held as part Medical Center of Breast Cancer campus, 1408 E. 8th Awareness Month Street in Weslaco. in October. Also Dr. Farray is October, board certified in Dr. Daniel Farray, Oncologist, will speak on during Medical medical oncology “Breast Cancer Awareness” during a free Knapp and hematology. luncheon on Tuesday, October 22 at 12:30 p.m. Center is offering digital screening He treats cancer at the Knapp Conference Center in Weslaco. patients at Texas Oncology’s office mammograms for a reduced price of at the Knapp Medical Plaza building $99. To register for a $99 screening in Weslaco. Dr. Farray completed a mammogram, please call 956-969fellowship in oncology/hematology at 5176 or 956-969-5335. the Loyola University Medical Center in For more information on Dr. Farray’s Maywood, Illinois. He also completed free health talk and luncheon October a residency in internal medicine at the 22, please contact Michael Swartz at 956-973-5142 or by email at Cleveland Clinic Foundation in Ohio. Dr. Farray’s talk will include a MSwartz@PrimeHealthCare.com. •
D
Social
Thursday, October 17 Special to Welcome Home RGV
C
elebrate Texas Native Plant Week at the Planta Nativa 2019 Social Thursday, October 17, 6:30 - 9:30 p.m. at Quinta Mazatlán. The mighty mesquite was chosen as the tree of the year, and everything at the Social is creatively inspired by our local mesquite. Whether you are a native to South Texas or this is your home away from home, it is clear to see that the mesquite is an integral part of our semi-arid and subtropical landscape. Because of the tree’s abundance in our area, it has intertwined itself into not only our scenery but into our culture, as well, and Planta Nativa is here to highlight the importance of our natives! Come to the Planta Nativa Social for a night of fun, food, spirits, entertainment, art, and a keynote speaker. This event will feature live music by country star Lauren Corzine. Enjoy mesquite-inspired tapas by Chef Nancy of Greens & Lemons and desserts by Lebby Salinas, along with beer and wine. Partake in a cooking demo with Chef Adam of Bodega and
Welcome Home WINTER TEXAN • • • October 16, 2019
FREE Health-Talk Luncheon in Weslaco October 22 Dr. Farray to Speak on Breast Cancer Awareness
The
at the
•••
a demo by The Cappadona Ranch. Native plant growers will be educating and selling plants. The evening finale is the keynote speaker, Christine Ten Eyck, a landscape architect out of Austin. Ten Eyck is recognized for her native landscape design approach, aesthetic beauty, and innovation in the realm of sustainability. Ten Eyck will be presenting her talk, “Return of the Natives,” on the large outdoor LED screen under the stars at Quinta Mazatlán. Planta Nativa will be your chance to learn more about the many uses of mesquite, as well as many other native species, all while enjoying a lively and entertaining atmosphere. The event is all-inclusive, and advance tickets of $15 are required through Ticketmaster.com (search Planta Nativa). Space is limited. Visit Quinta Mazatlan online at quintamazatlan. com or on Facebook at facebook. com/McAllenQuintaMazatlan for more information. •
The Planta Nativa Social at Quinta Mazatlán is Thursday, October 17, from 6:30 - 9:30 p.m. The Mesquite Social will feature mesquite-inspired tapas, beer and wine, art, music, native plants, and keynote speaker Christine Ten Eyck. Tickets are limited and are available through Ticketmaster.com.
with Chaplains John and Edith Gale
• Change •
I went for a walk last night. Our life
is going through a season of change, and I hoped a walk would clear my mind and calm my spirit. I looked out over the rolling hills, expecting to see the familiar skyline of grain bins and tree patches. What caught my eye were wind turbines. They seemed to have popped up all over the place! The county is changing. The other day a fellow told me he was a progressive. I asked, “What’s that mean?” He said, “It means I embrace change and believe change is always best.” I’m not so sure! To me, change often is just something new and different. In a couple of weeks, we are leaving for the Rio Grande Valley and joining the ranks of the retired, an all new way of living. What should we take? Will we make friends? I am really looking forward to being a Winter Texan, but I will also miss wonderful years of productive labor. Malachi 3:6 says, “For I am the Lord, I change not...” I am glad God and his Word never change.
Chaplain John Gale, along with his wife Edith Ellen, are serving their first year as RV chaplains at Alamo Rose RV Resort in Alamo. They are also new to retirement, so they are anxious to meet new friends and to see where God leads their ministry at Alamo Rose. Come and join them any Sunday for a non-denominational worship service. You’ll be glad you did.
Hebrews 13:8 says, “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever.” Change is coming for all of us. Some may be good, some not so good. Most change is just new and different. Invest your hope and faith in that which will never change-Jesus Christ! •
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October 16, 2019 • • • Welcome
$
Home WINTER TEXAN • • • www.welcomehomergv.com
Celebrating South Texas!
PER PERSON
LIVE MUSIC
FOOD TASTING
DANCING
DOOR PRIZES
Welcome Home RGV is now bringing to you a whole new adventure for your taste buds! We invite you to join restaurants for a dining experience like no other with live music, raffles and tasting the best foods the Rio Grande Valley can offer!
Thursday, October 24, 2019 3:00pm – 5:00pm Texas Trails RV Resort
501 W Owassa Rd • Pharr, TX 78577
For tickets call office at 956-687-5115 welcomehomergv.com
10
$
PER PERSON
Celebrating South Texas!
www.welcomehomergv.com
•••
Welcome Home WINTER TEXAN • • • October 16, 2019
THROUGH
9
ERYN’S LENS
Exclusive to Welcome Home RGV Photos: Eryn Reddell-Wingert
Converted Texan Fiesta April 2019
The 2019 Winter-Texan season came to an end Fiesta style! Winter Texans who made the decision to live in the Rio Grande Valley year round celebrated at the Converted Texan Fiesta at the Hynes Event Center at Llano Grande in Mercedes in April. The Converted Texan Fiesta, hosted by Welcome Home RGV, officially welcomes our new, permanent Valley residents.
•••
Things I Have Learned
A somewhat random and reckless look at life from a fairly old guy
by Bill Ward
T O D AY ’ S W I S D O M
“People show you who they are, not by what they say, but by what they do.” Jane Green
I
Bill Ward is a retired healthcare administrator from Minnesota and a regular columnist, author, and untalented rock n’ roll musician. He winters at Casa Del Sol in Donna. You can contact Bill by email at bwward@charter.net .
recently spotted a news article about the high value of the 1943 copper penny. As most old folks know, 1943 pennies were made of steel and zinc. Very few coppers exist, and they are extremely valuable today. I had a vague recollection that I had a 1943 copper in my coin stash. Sure enough, when I went digging, there it was. My enthusiasm began to build as I realized I was holding a coin that was potentially worth $100,000. I searched the internet for confirmation and found the trick to
Lessons from a Bad Penny checking authenticity. Just hold it up to a magnet. If the magnet attracts it, it is a fake, a steel penny that has been copper clad. That was something done by a variety of folks as a business promotion, back in the day. Many of those old fakes ultimately found their way into circulation. I got a magnet and moved it toward my penny. Click! As my penny slid onto the magnet, my fortune evaporated. The penny was not what it seemed to be. It looked good on the outside, but on the inside it was a cheap imitation, a fraud. One thing I have learned in life is that people are sometimes just like my penny. They look good on the outside, but inside something is amiss. I experienced this as an employer when I hired some people who seemed right in their interview but ultimately proved to be a mess on the inside. I suspect
many people in the 50 percent of marriages that fail have encountered the same issue. Life is full of similar examples. I have also learned that the opposite happens. Sometimes I hired people who didn’t look very good initially, but when desperate for help, we sometimes took a chance. Every once in a while, I found someone who was all wrong on the outside but proved to be a gem on the inside. I suspect more than a few great marriages have experienced that, too, as folks a bit rough around the edges turned out to be very great people. With people and with pennies, the outside doesn’t tell the whole story. The big money is on the inside. Sometimes we just need to put it to the test to find out what’s in there. I’m just sayin’. •
October 16, 2019 • • • Welcome
10
Home WINTER TEXAN • • • www.welcomehomergv.com
DANCE ENTERTAINMENT & SHOWS
CALENDAR OF EVENTS WEEK OF
October 16 - 29, 2019 WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 16, 2019 Quilt As You Go Class, 01:00 PM, A Block Away Quilt Shop, 2706 N 10th St, McAllen. $30.00 pp. (956) 638-1961. Trailer Park Patsy, 05:00 PM, Excalibur Sports Bar & Grill, 203 Palmview Dr, Mission. Free admission. (956) 584-9495. Dance w/Steven May & Southern Knights, 07:00 PM, Tip O’ Texas, 101 E Sioux Rd, Pharr. $6.00 pp. (956) 787-6461.
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 17, 2019 Happy Hour w/Diego, 03:00 PM, Victoria Palms Resort, 602 N Victoria Rd, Donna. Pass the hat. (956) 782-3263. Domestic Beer Night, 04:00 PM, Simon Sez Home of Rock-N-Roll, 2007 Orchid Ave, McAllen. (956) 618-4178. Open Grill, 05:00 PM, McAllen Elks Lodge #1402, 3500 Jordan Ave, McAllen. (956) 686-3902. Alfresco Weslaco, 06:30 PM, Downtown Weslaco, Historic
Nov 9 Curt James (Saturday Night)..........$6.00 Nov 15 The Howlers..............................$8.00 Nov 22 Route 66 Band.........................$8.00 Nov 29 The Hot Rodz............................$8.00 Dec 6 Renaissance Rockers...............$10.00 Dec 13 The Howlers..............................$8.00 Dec 20 Diego........................................$7.00 Dec 27 Route 66 Band.........................$8.00 Dec 31* Gatos Locos............................$15.00 *New Year’s Eve Dance 8:30PM-12:30AM (w/late lunch) Jan 3 Pelican West...........................$10.00 Jan 10 Regan James Hired Hand...........$7.00 Jan 17 The Cruisers............................$10.00
**** ENTERTAINMENT **** ALL ENTERTAINMENT 7:00PM Pay at the Door (unless otherwise noted) Dec 7 Dec 17 Jan 2 Jan 8 Jan 9 Jan 11 Jan 15 Jan 18 Jan 21 Jan 22 Jan 29 Feb 4
Razz Ma Tazz............................Donations Tom Wurth Christmas Show........ $9.00 Eric Kearns Show...................... $9.00 Kody Norris Show...................... $9.00 The Punches Family Show......... $7.00 Karaoke w/Paul (7:00-9:30PM)........Donations Goldwing Express Show........... $10.00 Baker Family Show.................... $8.00 Lawless & Mae Show................. $8.00 Williamson Family Show............ $8.00 Mollie B Show..........$13 Adv $15 at Door Rusty Rierson Show................... $8.00
1645 S. Bentsen Palm Drive Palmview, TX 78572
956-585-0703
Peggy Creach • Kathy Tyler Activity Directors
SALES
go-to source for our retirees to check out the lighter side of the Valley by listing entertainment events, dances, meals, jam sessions, meetings, and even garage sales. For more information on submitting your events and activities, please email calendar@welcomehomergv.com. The deadline for submission is Mondays at 5:00pm. •
Downtown Weslaco. (956) 969-0838. www.weslacoedc.com Noches de serenata con el Trio Tres en Punto, 08:00 PM, Hacienda San Miguel, 6101 N 23rd St, McAllen. For information call (956) 862-6763.
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2019 Pan Dulce and Pollinators, 09:30 AM, Edinburg Scenic Wetlands & World Birding Center, 714 S Raul Longoria Rd, Edinburg. Cost for admission. (956) 381-9922. Happy Hour w/Curt James, 04:00 PM, Llano Grande Resort, 2215 E West Blvd, Mercedes. (956) 565-2228. Fish Fry w/Terry Roe Band, 05:00 PM, McAllen Elks Lodge #1402, 3500 Jordan Rd, McAllen. (956) 686-3902. Curt James, 07:00 PM, Weslaco Elks Lodge, 201 S Border, Weslaco. Free admission. (956) 455-4195. Dance w/South Texas Ramblers, 07:00 PM, Texas Trails RV Resort,
1051 W. Bus Hwy 83 Donna, TX 78537
listed ALL DANCES 7:00PM-10:00PM unless otherwise Singles are Welcome
MEALS
Looking for something to do here in the Rio Grande Valley? Our calendar of events has been the
Bit-O-Heaven RV and Mobile Home Park
**** FRIDAY DANCES ****
JAM SESSIONS
Celebrating South Texas!
www.bit-o-heaven.net EVERY TUESDAY • HAPPY HOUR
STARTS NOVEMBER 5 3:30-5:00pm • Pass the Bucket for Donations 1st Tues • Diego • BYOB • Popcorn & Soda for sale 2nd Tues • Curt James • Free Ice 3rd Tues • Regan James • BYOB • Snacks 4th Tues • Tim Dirth (The Hitman)
EVERY WEDNESDAY ENTERTAINMENT • 6:30PM
Popcorn/Soda/Ice Cream Bars for sale
Dec. 11 • Ralph Kuster • $7.00 Dec. 18 • Tom Wurth Christmas Show • $9.00
EVERY THURSDAY : SOUP SUPPER STARTS NOVEMBER 7 4:30PM • $3.00 • All You Can Eat/BYOTS Dessert/Soda for sale
EVERY FRIDAY : DANCE
7:00pm - 10:00pm BYOB & Snacks / Popcorn & Soda for sale Oct. 31 • Halloween Dance w/DJ Richard Kline • $5.00
Nov. 8 • DJ Richard Kline • $5.00 Nov. 15 • Gatos Locos • $6.00
EVERY SATURDAY : JAM SESSION STARTS NOVEMBER 2
BYOB • Popcorn & Soda for sale • Free Ice
11:00 AM - 1:00PM • FREE
CRAFT FAIR
Second Friday Every Month (Nov - Mar) 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM • Breakfast for sale
PATIO SALES
Second Saturday Every Month (Nov - Mar) 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM Pick up map in North Hall
Susan Thomas, A C T I V I T Y
DIRECTOR
603-396-2786 / fulltimers@earthlink.net
501 W Owassa Rd, Pharr. $6.00 pp. (956) 782-7886. Downtown Harlingen Ghost Tours, 07:00 PM, Downtown Harlingen, 209 W Jackson St, Harlingen. $20.00 pp. (956) 216-4910. Nino de Pura, flamenco guitar, 07:00 PM, UTRGV Performing Arts Complex Auditorium, 1201 W. University Dr., Edinburg. Tickets are $5 senior/student and $10 general admission. (956) 665-3881. State-Wide 2019 Genealogy Lock In, 11:00 PM, McAllen Public Library, 4001 N 23rd St, McAllen. Free admission. (956) 681-3061.
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 19, 2019 10th Annual Leo Aguilar Foundation & Los Fresnos CISD 5k Walk/Run, 07:00 AM, Leo Aguilar Memorial Stadium, 100 Stadium Dr, Los Fresnos. (956) 254-5353. (682) 559-1985. Downtown Harlingen Sidewalk Sale,
10:00 AM, Downtown Harlingen, Jackson Street. Free admission. Butterfly Baiting, 10:00 AM, Edinburg Scenic Wetlands & World Birding Center, 714 Raul Longoria Rd, Edinburg. (956) 381-9922. Country Western Jam, 11:00 AM, Green Gate Grove, 2135 S Bentsen Palm Dr, Palmview. Free admission. (956) 584-1561. GO! Club, 01:00 PM, A Block Away Quilt Shop, 2706 N 10th St, McAllen. $100.00 pp for year. (956) 638-1961. Downtown Harlingen Ghost Tours, 07:00 PM, Downtown Harlingen, 209 W Jackson St, Harlingen. $20.00 pp. (956) 216-4910. Dance w/RGV Rusty Rockers, 07:00 PM, Aladdin Villas, 1415 Aladdin Villas Blvd, West Mission. Pass the hat. (320) 492-6415. Dance w/Sweet Water, 07:00 PM, Trophy Gardens RV Resort, 800 State Hwy 495, Alamo. $6.00 pp. (956) 787-7717.
Celebrating South Texas!
www.welcomehomergv.com
DANCE ENTERTAINMENT & SHOWS Las Cafeteras, 07:30 PM, Corpus Christi Performing Arts Center, 6300 Ocean Blvd, Corpus Christi. $20.00 pp. (361) 825-2787. Jealous Heart, 08:00 PM, McAllen Elks Lodge #1402, 3500 Jordan Rd, McAllen. (956) 686-3902.
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2019 Estero Llano Grande Sunday Tram Tours, 02:00 PM, Estero LLano Grande State Park, 3301 S International Blvd. (FM 1015), Weslaco. (956) 565-3919. Live Music!, 02:00 PM, Riverside Club, 214 E Chimney Rd, Mission. Free admission. (956) 581-1033. Begin Quilting Class, 02:00 PM, A Block Away Quilt Shop, 2706 N 10th St, McAllen. $75.00 pp for all eight sessions. (956) 638-1961.
MONDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2019 Ruler of The Month Club 5, 02:00 PM, A Block Away Quilt Shop, 2706 N 10th St, McAllen. (956) 638-1961. Lauren Corzine, 03:00 PM, Ranchero Village, 1900 S Bridge Ave, Weslaco. Pass the hat. (940) 783-2315. Happy Hour All Day, 04:00 PM, Simon Sez Home of Rock-N-Roll, 2007 Orchid Ave, McAllen. (956) 618-4178. Salsa Dance Class, 08:00 PM,
McAllen Elks Lodge #1402, 3500 Jordan Rd, McAllen. $5.00 pp. (956) 686-3902.
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 22, 2019
Bird Walk, 08:30 AM, Edinburg Scenic Wetlands & World Birding Center, 714 S Raul Longoria Rd, Edinburg. Cost for admission. (956) 381-9922. Happy Hour, 03:30 PM, Bit-O-Heaven RV & MH Park, 1051 Hook St, Bus 83, Donna. Pass the hat. (603) 396-2786. Happy Hour & Free Jukebox, 04:00 PM, Simon Sez Home of Rock-NRoll, 2007 Orchid Ave, McAllen. (956) 618-4178. Karaoke w/Millie & Ray, 06:00 PM, McAllen Elks Lodge #1402, 3500 Jordan Ave, McAllen, for information call 956-686-3902.
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 23, 2019 The Sweetest Equation Tea Towels Embroidery Class, 10:00 AM, A Block Away Quilt Shop, 2706 N 10th St, McAllen. $40.00 pp. (956) 638-1961. Social Hour, 03:00 PM, Siesta Retirement Village, 2712 S International Blvd, Weslaco. Pass the hat. (952) 200-8646 or (425) 501-6773. All are welcome. Musicians will vary.
•••
Welcome Home WINTER TEXAN • • • October 16, 2019 11
JAM SESSIONS
MEALS
Potluck Dinner, 06:00 PM, McAllen Elks Lodge #1402, 3500 Jordan Rd, McAllen. (956) 686-3902. Dessert with a Doctor: Minimally Invasive Robotic Hysterectomies, 06:30 PM, Valley Baptist Hospital, 2101 Pease St, Harlingen. Free admission. (855) 720-7448. Dance w/Steven May & Southern Knights, 07:00 PM, Tip O’ Texas, 101 E Sioux Rd, Pharr. $6.00 pp. (956) 787-6461.
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2019 Ready, Steady, Balance, Go!, 09:30 AM, Knapp Medical Center, 700 Knapp Medical Blvd, Weslaco. Free admission. (956) 969-2222. TASTE of Supper Club, 03:00 PM, Texas Trails RV Resort, 501 W. Owassa Rd, Pharr. $10.00 pp. For reservations call (956) 687-5115. Domestic Beer Night, 04:00 PM, Simon Sez Home of Rock-NRoll, 2007 Orchid Ave, McAllen. (956) 618-4178. Open Grill, 05:00 PM, McAllen Elks Lodge #1402, 3500 Jordan Ave, McAllen. (956) 686-3902. 15th Annual Halloween Safety Fair,
SALES
05:00 PM, Mission Regional Medical Center, 900 S Bryan Rd, Mission. (956) 323-1150. Noches de serenata con el Trio Tres en Punto, 08:00 PM, Hacienda San Miguel, 6101 N 23rd St, McAllen. For information call (956) 862-6763.
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2019 Pan Dulce and Pollinators, 09:30 AM, Edinburg Scenic Wetlands & World Birding Center, 714 S Raul Longoria Rd, Edinburg. Cost for admission. (956) 381-9922. Texas Home & Outdoor Expo 2019, 04:00 PM, McAllen Convention Center, 700 Convention Center Blvd, McAllen. $5.00 pp. (956) 821-4424. Fish Fry w/Route 66, 05:00 PM, McAllen Elks Lodge #1402, 3500 Jordan Rd, McAllen. (956) 686-3902. Harlingen Art Night, 07:00 PM, Harlingen CVB, Downtown Harlingen, Jackson Street. (956) 216-4910. Curt James, 07:00 PM, Weslaco Elks Lodge, 201 S Border, Weslaco. Free admission. (956) 455-4195. Halloween Dance w/Diego, 07:00 PM, Texas Trails RV Resort, 501 W Owassa Rd, Pharr. $7.00 pp. (956) 782-7886.
SCHEDULE OF EVENTS CONTINUED ON PAGE 12 >>
956-792-9459
OPEN HOUSE
Every Wednesday and Friday 1-3pm
FREE
Come out and see the homes we have for sale & lease.
CASA FALL FESTIVAL & POT LUCK
ESTIMATES
(While supplies last)
October 30, 2019 4-8pm • In Main Hall
Games & Prizes – Apple & Pumpkin Pie Bake Off Free to residents (with Casa name badge) Tickets $5 each for Out of Park Guests
SENIOR
LINE DANCING W/KEITH
DISCOUNTS
STARTS NOVEMBER 4
Mondays & Wednesday • 10am (Beginners/Improvers) Tuesdays • 10am (High Beginner)
Instructor Donations accepted • Open to public
For more information regarding these or other activities at Casa del Valle, call 956-783-5008 and ask for activity director.
Brought to you by
MUSIC LIVE GO RDON BY JEFF
DECEMBER 12, 2019 •••
GET YOUR TICKETS TODAY!
Call for Information 956-687-5115
www.welcomehomergv.com
• Underbelly Insulation • Mobile Home Leveling • Varmint Issues • Kitchen & Bathroom Make-overs • Air Duct Cleaning and Repairs • All types of Roofing • All types of Flooring • Electrical & Plumbing • Painting • Pressure Washing and more!
12
October 16, 2019 • • • Welcome
Home WINTER TEXAN • • • www.welcomehomergv.com
DANCE ENTERTAINMENT & SHOWS
JAM SESSIONS
Celebrating South Texas!
MEALS
SALES
SCHEDULE OF EVENTS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 11 Window Decorating Contest Judging, 07:00 PM, Downtown Harlingen, Jackson Street, free admission. (956) 216-4910.
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2019 Spectacular Saturday! at EWBC, 08:00 AM, Edinburg Scenic Wetlands & World Birding Center, 714 S Raul Longoria Rd, Edinburg. Free admission. (956) 381-9222. Texas Home & Outdoor Expo 2019, 10:00 AM, McAllen Convention Center, 700 Convention Center Blvd, McAllen. $5.00 pp. (956) 821-4424. Halloween Bash at IMAS, 10:00 AM, International Museum of Art and Science, 1900 Nolana Ave, McAllen. Free admission. (956) 681-2800. Country Western Jam, 11:00 AM, Green Gate Grove, 2135 S Bentsen Palm Dr, Palmview. Free admission. (956) 584-1561. St. Paul’s 56 Annual Fall Festival, 04:00 PM, St. Paul Lutheran School, 300 W Pecan, McAllen. Free admission. (956) 682-2345. 5K Zombie Run & Monster Mile, 05:00 PM, Tip of Texas Family Outreach, 455 E Levee, Brownsville. $10.00 pp. (956) 459-5755. Rib Eye Dinner, 06:00 PM, McAllen
Elks Lodge #1402, 3500 Jordan Rd, McAllen. (956) 686-3902. Dance w/The Bottomline, 07:00 PM, Trophy Gardens RV Resort, 800 State Hwy 495, Alamo. $6.00 pp. (956) 787-7717. Tejano Reign Band, 08:00 PM, McAllen Elks Lodge #1402, 3500 Jordan Rd, McAllen. (956) 686-3902.
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 27, 2019 Texas Home & Outdoor Expo 2019, 11:00 AM, McAllen Convention Center, 700 Convention Center Blvd, McAllen. $5.00 pp. (956) 821-4424. Estero Llano Grande Sunday Tram Tours, 02:00 PM, Estero LLano Grande State Park, 3301 S International Blvd. (FM 1015), Weslaco. (956) 565-3919. Live Music!, 02:00 PM, Riverside Club, 214 E Chimney Rd, Mission. Free admission. (956) 581-1033. Begin Quilting Class, 02:00 PM, A Block Away Quilt Shop, 2706 N 10th St, McAllen. $75.00 pp for all eight sessions. (956) 638-1961.
MONDAY, OCTOBER 28, 2019 Happy Hour All Day, 04:00 PM, Simon Sez Home of Rock-NRoll, 2007 Orchid Ave, McAllen.
(956) 618-4178. Salsa Dance Class, 08:00 PM, McAllen Elks Lodge #1402, 3500 Jordan Rd, McAllen. $5.00 pp. (956) 686-3902.
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 29, 2019 Bird Walk, 08:30 AM, Edinburg Scenic Wetlands & World Birding Center, 714 S Raul Longoria Rd, Edinburg. Cost for admission. (956) 381-9922.
Happy Hour, 03:30 PM, Bit-OHeaven RV & MH Park, 1051 Hook St, Bus 83, Donna. Pass the hat. (603) 396-2786. Happy Hour & Free Jukebox, 04:00 PM, Simon Sez Home of Rock-NRoll, 2007 Orchid Ave, McAllen. (956) 618-4178. Scar-E-Oke w/ Millie & Ray, 06:30 PM, McAllen Elks Lodge #1402, 3500 Jordan Rd, McAllen. (956) 686-3902.•
Celebrating South Texas!
www.welcomehomergv.com
•••
Welcome Home WINTER TEXAN • • • October 16, 2019 13
Register Now to Become a South Texas Border Chapter
Texas Master Naturalist
Special to Welcome Home RGV
R
egistration is open to join the 2020 South Texas Border Chapter of the Texas Master Naturalist training class. Hidalgo, Starr, and Cameron county residents over the age of 18 and Winter Texans are welcome. Texas Master Naturalist is a unique educational volunteer program sponsored by Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service, Texas Sea Grant Program, and the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department.
“Texas Master Naturalist chapters are made up of volunteers with diverse interests who are involved in myriad activities to learn about, work with, and help educate others about the special land in which we live,” said chapter sponsor, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Agent Tony Reisinger. “When nature is left to itself, a unique ecosystem develops…after hundreds TEXAS MASTER NATURALIST CONTINUED ON PAGE 15 >>
Fall Market Day at IB Festive – Seeking Vendors and Shoppers Special to Welcome Home RGV
G
et your shopping done early at Fall Market Day at IB Festive November 16 from 10:00 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Lamar Academy, 1009 N. 10th Street in McAllen. We are currently looking for vendors who sell beautiful jewelry, clothing, crafts, school-mascot yard signs, and much, MUCH more. The Lamar Academy/IB Student Council works year round to promote a sense of community. Our recent projects include working with the Catholic Charities to help immigrants who need assistance, clean-ups with the City of McAllen’s Keep McAllen Beautiful, anti-bully rallies, and a Mental Health Fair. We also promote spirit at school activities, literacy at different school-sponsored events,
and social consciousness for serious topics, such as suicide, depression, cancer, and bullying. Making all of this happen requires sizable funds. This year, we decided to host a fundraiser that makes money but also gives back to our community. Fall Market Day at IB Festive was the answer. In the words of Ralph Waldo Emerson, “To know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived---this is to have succeeded.” This is what we hope to instill in all Lamar Academy/ IB Student Council members and in the people we serve. For more information, please contact Erica De La Garza Lopez at 956-867-5065. •
WE OFFER ALL OF THESE BRANDS AT
DEEPLY DISCOUNTED PRICES!
NO Gimmicks, NO Bait-N-Switch!
Fully rechargeable and direct connect to iPhone for less than $3000 for the pair!
Raymond R. Pruneda Hearing Instrument Specialist
922 S. Closner Blvd, Ste A Edinburg, TX 78539 PH: (956) 533-0594 Fax: (956) 386-9097
sotxhearing.com
Email: sthc.hearingaids@yahoo.com
14
October 16, 2019 • • • Welcome
Home WINTER TEXAN • • • www.welcomehomergv.com
Celebrating South Texas!
UTRGV School of Music Patron of the Arts Series Announces Fabulous 2019-2020 Season Special to Welcome Home RGV
T
he School of Music Patron of the Arts will present performances by our own extraordinary faculty and students and a variety of ensembles and chamber music throughout the coming fall and spring. In addition, the UTRGV Patron of the Arts Distinguished Artists Series will bring the finest international musicians in the world to the Rio Grande Valley, with performances on both the Edinburg and Brownsville UTRGV campuses. The Distinguished Artists Series opens October 18 at the Edinburg PAC with Daniel Navarro Cruz, better known as Niño de Pura. He is one of the leading, prize-winning guitarists in Spain and appears on prestigious stages around the world, including London (Royal Albert Hall), France, Germany, Belgium, Mexico, Chile, and Spain. The concert will feature an entire flamenco troupe, which includes dancers, singers, and percussion. Trio Picaporte follows November 11 at Edinburg PAC and November 12 at the Brownsville campus, TSC PAC. Trio Picaporte was formed at the Facultad de Artes de la Universidad de Antioquia in Columbia, performing music that is representative of the traditional
Daniel Navarro Cruz, or better known as Niño de Pura
Andean region while exploring and fusing popular elements. The Distinguished Artists Series spring concerts include a performance January 28, in Edinburg by LowFrequency Trio. The Trio was founded in 2016 by Antonio Rosales
(bass clarinet), Juan José García (doublebass), and José Luis Hurtado (piano), and its members are highly active in the international contemporary music scene. The Trio has collaborated with more than 20 young and established composers in the creation
and performance of innovative new works for their unique instrumentation. Two world-class pianists highlight the Patron of the Arts Distinguished Artists Series in February and March. UTRGV SCHOOL OF MUSIC CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE >>
Celebrating South Texas!
www.welcomehomergv.com
•••
Welcome Home WINTER TEXAN • • • October 16, 2019 15
Downtown Harlingen Ghost Tours October 18 - 19 Special to Welcome Home RGV
T
he RGV Paranormal Investigations and Downtown Harlingen is excited to announce our Downtown Harlingen Ghost Tours Friday and Saturday, October 18 and 19, from 7 – 9 p.m. This is the first year Downtown Harlingen will host this event. The RGV Paranormal Investigations has partnered with the Brownsville Cemetery Association and the Brownsville Historical Association for ghost tours Downtown and at the cemetery. This is a hands-on tour, where each participant will be using the equipment
that locates the hot spots. Make sure to wear your walking shoes, and be prepared to learn a few things about Historic Downtown Harlingen. We encourage everyone to bring digital cameras, but please no video cameras or audio recording. You might be surprised at what shows up in your photos! Registration will begin at 6:30 p.m. at the Downtown Harlingen Office, located at 209 W. Jackson. Registration fee is $20. Cash only, please. To make your reservation, please contact the Downtown Harlingen office at 956-216-4910. Limited spots are available. •
>> UTRGV SCHOOL OF MUSIC CONTINUED FROM PAGE 14
>> TEXAS MASTER NATURALIST CONTINUED FROM PAGE 13
Javor Bračić comes to the Edinburg PAC Thursday, February 27, and Alex MacDonald performs at the TSC PAC in Brownsville March 7. Croatian pianist Bračić was hailed by New York Concert Review for “deep, genuine musicianship and an outstanding technique” at his solo Carnegie Hall debut recital presented by New York Concert Artists. Since his orchestral debut at age 11, American pianist Alex McDonald has performed in countries around the world and has been a featured performer on PBS, WRR (Dallas/Fort Worth), NPR, and WQXR (New York City). The final concert of the Patron of the Arts Distinguished Artists Series brings a dynamic, cross-genre duo, Sandeep Das (tabla) and Mike Block (cello/ vocals), to the Edinburg PAC. This energetic duo has been performing since 2013, and their music features a rhythmic and melodic combination of the tabla (Indian drums used in Hindustani classical music), cello, and vocals. The complete 2019-2020 schedule and tickets are available at patron.utrgv.edu. •
of years,” Reisinger said. “Today, that unique ecosystem is what Texas Master Naturalists learn about and help sustain, the Rio Grande Valley’s native habitat and the critters that depend on it.” Classes are taught by local university professors and other field experts, including those from the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, and U.S. Department of Agriculture. Students attend weekly Tuesday classes from 6 to 9 p.m. January 7 through April 14 at St. George Orthodox Church Hall, 704 W. Sam Houston in Pharr. In addition, special field trip options for trainees provide unique access and learning opportunities. Trainees join volunteer teams with other chapter members and work among more than 60 local partners, including federal and local wildlife parks, coastal naturalist programs, cities, schools, and other public entities. There are hundreds of opportunities available for volunteers, from studying ocelots and other mammals to joining cutting-edge university studies,
2019-2020 Patron of the Arts Distinguished Artist Series: Niño de Pura, flamenco guitar Friday, October 18, at 7 p.m.
UTRGV Performing Arts Complex, Edinburg
Trio Picaporte
Monday, November 11, at 7 p.m. UTRGV Performing Arts Complex, Edinburg
Tuesday, November 12, at 7 p.m.
TSC Performing Arts Center, Brownsville
Low-Frequency Trio
Tuesday, January 28, 2020, at 7 p.m. UTRGV Performing Arts Complex, Edinburg
Javor Bračić, piano
Thursday, February 27, 2020 at 7 p.m. UTRGV Performing Arts Complex, Edinburg
Alex McDonald, piano
Saturday, March 7, 2020 at 7 p.m. TSC Performing Arts Center, Brownsville
Mike Block & Sandeep Das
Friday, April 3, 2020 at 7 p.m. UTRGV Performing Arts Complex, Edinburg
developing public native gardens, learning about native plants and habitat, citizen science projects, bird migration and shore birds, and Gulf and beach inhabitants and trends. Texas Master Naturalists also offer free PowerPoint presentations to groups on a variety of native subjects. They train as docents and nature guides at local wildlife preserves. The chapter has monthly guest speakers the third Monday of each month at 6:30 p.m. Meetings are free and open to the public. Deadline to apply for the 2020 class is December 15. Class size is limited, so apply now. The cost is $150 and includes textbook, fees, a t-shirt, and a one-year membership. Full scholarships are available. Requests for scholarships are also due by December 15. To apply for the class, follow the instruction sheet on our new class web page at stbctmn.org/the-next-class. To request a scholarship application, or if you have other questions, please contact the new class director, Anne Mayville, at nurse_anne@msn.com. Check out the chapter website at stbctmn.org. •
16
October 16, 2019 • • • Welcome
Home WINTER TEXAN • • • www.welcomehomergv.com
Celebrating South Texas!
STC Theatre Opens
10th Anniversary Season with
The Taming of the Shrew
Special to Welcome Home RGV
S
outh Texas College (STC) Theatre kicks off its 10th Anniversary Season with William Shakespeare’s The Taming of the Shrew, adapted by Robert De Hoyos. The production will run from October 17-19 at 7:30 p.m. and will include a matinee at 2 p.m. October 20. Performances will take place at STC’s Cooper Center for Communication Arts Black Box Studio Theatre at 3201 W. Pecan Boulevard in McAllen. In Shakespeare’s Taming of the Shrew, Lucentio loves Bianca but cannot court her until her older sister, Katherina, marries. The eccentric Petruccio marries the reluctant Katherina and uses a number of tactics to make her
an obedient wife. In De Hoyos’ adaptation, power and gender are addressed in a manner which bears relevance. General admission tickets cost $5. Tickets can be purchased one hour before the performance at the box office, or in advance online at southtexascollege.edu/go/theatre. For additional information about the show, or for group rates, call 956-872-2301 or email drodri72@southtexascollege.edu or jrodriguez@southtexascollege.edu. •
saving you more!
COUPON
CONNECTION
Our weekly coupon section will help you SAVE while you are
here. Visit our website www.welcomehomergv.com for more printable coupons. •
Steven Rios as Boy and Annabelle Renner as Molly
Rowe Theatre Presents Peter and the Starcatcher Special to Welcome Home RGV
N
ikki Rowe Theatre is currently in rehearsals for our fall production, Peter and the Starcatcher, a prequel to Peter Pan based on the children’s book by Dave Barry and Ridley Pearson and freely adapted for the stage by Rick Elice. Actors make theatrical magic by playing dozens of characters: sailors, pirates, British naval officers, Mollusk natives, and orphans. The original Broadway production was a deliberately low-budget spectacle: an extravaganza of staging that relied on suggestion and storytelling rather than expensive set pieces like the chandelier in Phantom of the Opera or the helicopter in Miss Saigon. Jam-packed with poetry, fart jokes, gentle lyricism, and numerous nods to pop culture, Peter and the Starcatcher is a coming-of-age adventure about how a nameless orphan, inspired by a remarkable and ambitious girl, became the strange and celebrated
Mario Ortega as Ted and Diego Guerra as Prentiss
Julian Lozano as Captain Scott and Petey Lozano as Aster
hero that is the Boy Who Would Not Grow Up. Peter and the Starcatcher will be performed October 25 and 26 and November 1 and 2 at 7:00 p.m., as well as October 27 and November 3 at 2:00 p.m. Tickets are $5.00 general admission. For more information or to reserve tickets, please call 956-632-8861. •
Celebrating South Texas!
www.welcomehomergv.com
Donna High School’s
Donna Drama Theatre Company Takes Us
Somewhere over the Rainbow
Special to Welcome Home RGV
T
he Donna Drama Theatre Company 2019-2020 season kicks off with The Wizard of Oz opening November 13 at the Simon Sauceda Performing Arts Auditorium. The students of Donna High School, under the direction of Angel O. Leal and Juan Arriaga, bring to life this classic tale of brains, heart, and courage. Senior actors Molly Hunt, Anabel Hernandez, Alena Coronado, and Francisco Ortiz lead the way for their final season by taking the audience on a journey they will never forget. The cast and crew are made up of super-talented freshmen, sophomores, and juniors, as well, who showcase energy and fun for all ages to enjoy. Be sure to catch one of the five
showings of this timeless classic. Wednesday through Saturday, November 13-16, shows start at 7:00 p.m., and doors will open at 6:00 p.m. Sunday, November 17, the show will start at 1:00 p.m. with the doors opening at 12:00 p.m. Any and all elementary and middle school students will be admitted for just $1.00. High school and college students with school I.D. will be $3.00, and adults are $5.00. For additional information, please call our Fine Arts Office at 956464-0377. Join us somewhere over the rainbow and witness some of the greatness that is happening at the Donna High School Fine Arts Department! •
•••
Welcome Home WINTER TEXAN • • • October 16, 2019 17
>> HCA SCOUT MUSICAL TALENT CONTINUED FROM PAGE 3
view short videos of the six groups coming to Harlingen this fall and winter, most of which were recorded at the Talent Showcase in August 2018. All of the HCA shows this season are at the 1515-seat Harlingen Municipal Auditorium, 1204 Fair Park Boulevard. Performances begin at 7:30 p.m. The lineup is as follows: Broadway Bound featuring the 3 Redneck Tenors Friday, November 22 The Maxwell Quartet (from Scotland) Thursday, January 9, 2020 Sons of Serendip (America’s Got Talent finalists) Thursday, February 6, 2020 Dan Miller’s Cowboy Music Revue (from Wyoming) Friday, February 21, 2020
Sail On: Beach Boys Tribute Wednesday, March 4, 2020 Burlap to Cashmere (Folk-rock trio) Friday, March 13, 2020
You also may purchase season tickets through the Harlingen Concert Association’s website, guaranteeing a reserved seat at all six of these performances. Season subscriptions are very affordable, ranging from $60$90 for the six-show package, plus modest processing fees. Tickets for individual shows go on sale November 1 for $25 (balcony) and $35 (main floor). For more information, contact the Municipal Auditorium box office at 956-216-5990. The box office is open from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday-Friday. •
18
October 16, 2019 • • • Welcome
DELICIOUS RECIPES
Home WINTER TEXAN • • • www.welcomehomergv.com
ZESTY BITES
RECIPE CONNECTION •••
Celebrating South Texas!
INSTANT MEALS
APPETIZING DELIGHTS
Looking for that amazing treat that will satisfy your craving! Each week we will offer you a variety of recipes that you can try from those who truly enjoy food and want to share! •
Quick Cookin’ with Sandy Olson
•••
•••
There are a few different ways to keep cool and still put a meal friends and
The Border Cook
•••
Chicken Tinga – Tinga de Pollo
family will enjoy on the table. One is, of course, to order delivery from your favorite restaurant. You can buy hot, prepared foods from some of the bigger grocery stores or simply prepare cold salads, entrees, or desserts. None of these things work in the long run, so I turn to my many kitchen appliances and gadgets, as well as my trusty grill. Our adventures this season will take us to recipes and kitchenware that take the heat out of cooking. Beat the Texas heat!
Submitted by Randy Hoelscher, The Border Cook
Pam’s Jalapeño Poppers Submitted by Sandy Olson
This recipe was adapted from one given to me by my daughter-in-law, who lives in New Mexico. New Mexico is every bit as hot as Texas, minus the humidity. It’s not much different from many popper recipes; it’s the unique way of cutting the peppers that makes it special. • 1 dozen large fresh jalapeños • 8 oz. real cream cheese, softened
• 1 package dry ranch dressing mix • 8 slices good bacon, not too fat
Using plastic gloves to protect your hands, slice the peppers in half long ways, leaving the stem on one of the halves. (This is the devil’s tail!) Remove the seeds and veins from the pepper half with no tail; leave half the seeds/veins in the devil’s half. Mix the cream cheese with the dry ranch dressing mix, combining well. Fill the pepper halves, smoothing the filling flat on top. Cut each bacon slice into three pieces, and lay a piece on each pepper. Don’t wrap the peppers with a whole slice of bacon; it makes them too greasy. Put the pepper halves on a baking sheet, and grill them over medium-low heat, with the top of the grill down to create an “oven.” This may take an hour, depending upon the heat of the grill and how crisp you like the bacon. When you serve them, be sure to tell your family or guests that the hottest peppers have the devil’s tail on them; the others will be less spicy. (Jalapeños vary a great deal in their heat level.) Sandy Olson--lifelong foodie, restaurant reviewer, cooking teacher, Summer Iowan, and Winter Texan, she spends the season at Palm Shadows RV Park in Donna. This season, Sandy will be sharing recipes for appetizers and other delicious goodies you can make without heating up the kitchen. You can contact Sandy at midwestfoodie@gmail.com.
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Some Like It Hot
Zucchini Nut Bread
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Submitted by The Junior League of McAllen, Inc.
Serves 8-10 • 3 eggs • 1 cup vegetable oil • 2½ cups sugar • 2 cups peeled and grated zucchini • 3 tablespoons vanilla extract • 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon baking powder • 1 teaspoon nutmeg • 1 tablespoon cinnamon • 3 cups flour • 1 cup chopped nuts
Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Grease 2 (9 x 5) loaf pans. Beat eggs; add oil, sugar, zucchini, and vanilla. Mix well. Add remaining ingredients; mix well. Pour into prepared loaf pans. Bake for 1 hour. Great for breakfast or finger sandwiches with cream cheese. 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.
I
had not heard of this Mexican dish until this past summer while in Minnesota. We went to dinner at a place called the Granite City Brewery where they had a dish called Chicken Tinga Sopes. I had to try it, and it was fantastic. Here is their description of the dish: “Crispy corn tortilla cups, chicken tinga filling, shredded lettuce, fire-roasted corn & black bean salsa, avocado salsa verde, queso fresco, pickled Fresno chili, fresh cilantro.” Over the next few weeks, I will provide recipes for all of the ingredients of this delightful dish: the chicken tinga, the corn-and-black-bean salsa, the avocado salsa verde, and the sopes. I am starting with the chicken tinga because it can also be used in tacos, as a topping for tostadas, or in a burrito. Next we will make the corn-andblack-bean salsa, then the avocado salsa verde, then the pickled peppers, and finally the sopes (cup-shaped corn tortillas). You will be able to use all of the parts of this recipe in other dishes. Chicken tinga recipes abound on the internet. My version of this dish aims for simplicity; I know using too many ingredients will prevent my readers from trying them. This recipe makes enough for eight six-inch tacos, so let’s say it will serve four people. It freezes well, so making this recipe will be enough for two meals for a family of two. • 1 – large boneless skinless chicken breast – 12 ounces • 1 – Tbsp. powdered chicken bouillon or 2 cubes • 1 – clove fresh garlic (smashed) or about ½ tsp. canned minced garlic • 2 – Tbsp. extra virgin olive oil • 1 – medium yellow onion • 2 – tsp. kosher salt • 2 – tsp. oregano, preferably Mexican • 1 – 15-ounce can fire-roasted diced tomatoes • 1 – 3.5-ounce can chipotle peppers in adobo sauce Place about 2 cups of water in a medium-sized kettle. Add the smashed garlic clove (or minced garlic), one teaspoon of the salt, and the bouillon to the water and mix together while heating. Add the chicken and bring to a boil. Add water, just to cover the chicken, if needed. Simmer the chicken for about 20 minutes until cooked through or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees. Remove the chicken and set aside to cool, reserving the liquid. When cool enough to touch, shred the chicken by hand or with a fork and set aside. Roughly chop the yellow onion. Finely chop two of the chipotle peppers. Add the olive oil to a deep-sided skillet and heat to medium. Add the chopped onion and cook until almost translucent, but do not let it brown. Add the fire-roasted tomatoes and their juice, the chipotle peppers and about a tablespoon of their sauce, a teaspoon of salt, and the oregano and simmer gently for about five minutes to allow the flavors to combine. Add the shredded chicken and continue to stir and heat until the chicken is hot. If it gets too dry, add a tablespoon of the reserved poaching water. It is now ready to serve on flour or corn tortillas along with your favorite toppings. Enjoy! Buen apetito! • Randy Hoelscher is a transplanted Texan living in the Rio Grande Valley. He enjoys being “The Border Cook,” spreading the word about Mexican and Tex-Mex cuisine on his website, TheBorderCook.com, as well as on Facebook as The Border Cook.
Celebrating South Texas!
www.welcomehomergv.com
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Welcome Home WINTER TEXAN • • • October 16, 2019 19
bon appetit! with
Executive Chef Bettina
Tolin
Southern Style Mac and Cheese
Hooray! A cold front is FINALLY coming!
It’s time for warming comfort food, at last. I know what you are thinking. You are thinking, Mac n’ Cheese? I already have like 7 recipes for that. But wait! There is macaroni and cheese, and then there is out-of-this-world, decadent macaroni and cheese like this one. This one differs from most recipes, which start with a roux, because it begins with a milk and egg base, which gives the dish an outrageously rich, velvety taste. Extra-sharp Cheddar adds tanginess and the middle layer of Colby Jack (what?) creates a yummy, melted, gooey center. Better make extra! Bon Appétit! • • Kosher salt and black pepper • 2 cups whole milk • 16 oz shredded extra-sharp Cheddar • 8 oz shredded Colby Jack
• 1 pound elbow macaroni • 2 large eggs • ½ cup unsalted butter (1 stick), melted
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Heat oven to 350 degrees. Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a boil. Add macaroni and cook according to package directions until a little under al dente, about 4 minutes. Transfer to a colander and rinse under cold water to stop cooking. Set aside. In a large bowl, whisk milk and eggs. Add cooked macaroni, 2 cups extra-sharp Cheddar, melted butter, 1 1/2 teaspoons salt and 1/2 teaspoon pepper, and stir until well combined. Add half the macaroni mixture to a buttered 9-by-13-inch baking dish in an even layer. Sprinkle 1 1/2 cups Colby Jack evenly on top. Spread the remaining macaroni mixture on top in an even layer. Cover with aluminum foil, place on the middle rack of the oven and bake for 20 minutes. Remove from oven. Carefully remove and discard the aluminum foil. Top the macaroni mixture with the remaining 2 cups Cheddar and 1/2 cup Colby Jack. Broil on top rack until cheese is browned in spots, 3 to 5 minutes. NOTE: Take care not to burn the cheese - this broiling process will happen quickly so watch it closely. Remove from oven and let cool until the macaroni and cheese is fully set, 10 to 15 minutes. The dish may first appear loose, but it will firm up as it cools. Serve warm. •
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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 owner of Marcello’s Ocean Grille & Spirits overlooking the historic lighthouse in Port Isabel, Texas.
This Week’s Recipe is Brought to You By: Marcello’s Restaurant
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October 16, 2019 • • • Welcome
Home WINTER TEXAN • • • www.welcomehomergv.com
Celebrating South Texas!