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Welcome Home WINTER TEXAN • • • November 10, 2021
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We’re just connecting the dots.
VOLUME 7 • ISSUE 5 • November 10, 2021 • • • your official connection to the rio grande valley • • •
hello FROM KRISTI
What fun I’ve had over the last week seeing so many familiar faces and getting to know some new ones! As some of you may know, November is the month we spend with our resort activity directors. We host them at a trade show, where they can learn all about service providers, events, and attractions and make great contacts to bring back to your resorts. We also take many of them on what we call our “Boot Camp,” so they can learn, see, and do and then tell you, first hand, what they think. We call it Boot Camp for a reason--boy, is it exhausting! But the benefit of it all is the camaraderie we share after going through it together!
I can honestly tell you that each and every one of our activity directors goes into the season with wide eyes of excitement, ready to make your season full of things to do, places to go, and people to see. • We’re just connecting the dots,
Kristi
THANK YOU TO OUR
2021-2022
SEASON SPONSORS
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he red poppy flower is a sign of remembrance and hope, primarily for those who have served in the military. Its symbolic origins rose to prominence when poppies began to sprout in the upturned soil of the battle fields of World War I. Traditionally, this symbol is more common in Europe, but one local artist --and veteran--is bringing the poppy to the forefront. After the passing of a veteran friend, Albert Tijerina dreamt about designing a poppy in his friend’s honor. This is how he works out problems…in his
H Story and photos by Eryn Reddell Wingert H
dreams. “Everything I do comes to me in a dream,” Tijerina said. “If I’m going to build a storage shed, I’ve dreamt it three times before I start.” Tijerina is unassuming and modest. He hails from the small community of Linn-San Manuel, just north of Edinburg, and enlisted in the Army in 1978, straight out of high school. If he’d had his way, he would have signed up sooner, but Tijerina’s mom had words with the recruiter and
insisted her son finish school first. “I graduated May 27, and by June first, I was already doing push-ups,” he shares, grinning. It was a calling, he says. A destined, patriotic calling, one he says he felt in his heart. After a 20-year military career, he became a juvenile corrections officer closer to his hometown. Nearing retirement age, his current focus REMEMBRANCE AND HOPE CONTINUED ON PAGE 4 >>
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November 10, 2021 • • • Welcome
WINTER
Home WINTER TEXAN • • • www.welcomehomergv.com
Welcome Home
TEXAN • • • OF THE • • • WEEK
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 Stella Riester stella@welcomehomergv.com
Tim Davidson
Calendar Submissions! For more information on submitting your events and activities, please email:
calendar@welcomehomergv.com
Event Manager
by Rocio Villalobos
Retired Circus Performer, Police Sergeant Recognized for Leadership Qualities Tim
Davidson is all about giving back to his community. He served on the Minneapolis Police Force for 40 years, following in the footsteps of his father. Now, as a Converted Texan at Mission’s Winter Green Estates, he serves as president of the Residents’ Council. Davidson said the skills he developed on the police force, including how to problem solve, have helped him in this role. He was unanimously appointed. “Any time they place that kind of confidence in you, it’s an honor,” he said. “If someone has a problem, I’m the first one they come to. It’s just making sure things run as they’re supposed to.” With an extensive background in law enforcement--a field in which he climbed the ranks from patrolman to sergeant to investigator--he’s been invited to present to the Mission Police Department about the evolution of police in the past few decades. “One thing I liked about police work is you never knew what was going to happen,” Davidson said. “It was an interesting time. I liked the adrenaline rush.” His gravitation toward
adventure led him to his first career as a circus performer and elephant trainer. In his five years with the circus, he also picked up useful skills he’s kept with him throughout his life. “When you’re traveling in a circus for eight months out of the year, you have to learn to live with each other,” he said. “Circus people come from a broad range of backgrounds. Plus, it’s good physical training because everything is heavy.” While his present position as Resident’s Council president doesn’t require so much physical exertion, he is always eager to volunteer his time and energy, staying active in the park and in his church. Davidson moved to the Valley two years ago but already considers himself a local, having been a visitor since 1977 when his parents stayed at the same park. “My parents started coming here when the park was nothing but street and dirt,” he said. “My wife and I are well acquainted with the Valley. We really enjoy it, and I would never have even thought about living anywhere else after retirement.” •
If you have someone you’d like to nominate for Winter Texan of the Week, please visit our website, welcomehomergv.com/wintertexanoftheweek, and complete the application. We’ll be in touch with you if your nominee is selected.
The deadline for submission is Mondays at 5:00pm. •
Anne Marie Martin events@welcomehomergv.com
Weekly e-Blasts
Business Development
Leigh Woolridge leigh@welcomehomergv.com Curt James Riester curt@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:
Travel Division
Kristy Meyer travel@welcomehomergv.com
info@welcomehomergv.com
Accounting
Follow Us
Anna Talbert accounting@welcomehomergv.com
on Social Media!
Editor
Chris Ardis news@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:
Graphic Design
Jenny R Carpenter artwork@welcomehomergv.com Hanah Reed hanah@welcomehomergv.com
Social Media / Photographer
Gretchen Losi gretchen@welcomehomergv.com Eryn Reddell-Wingert eryn@welcomehomergv.com
news@welcomehomergv.com
Perks for Partners! •
www.facebook.com @whrgv @wintertexan
Promotional Division
Elizabeth Seal elizabeth@welcomehomergv.com Cristi Klostermann promotions@welcomehomergv.com Sabina Adames sabina@welcomehomergv.com
www.facebook.com/groups/wintertexansrgv
www.youtube.com Find on YouTube Channel “Welcome Home Rio Grande Valley”
Activity Coordinator
www.instagram.com @welcomehomergv @wintertexans
Fran Adams fran@welcomehomergv.com
1st Responder Coordinator
www.twitter.com @welcomehomergv
Rita Huether rita@welcomehomergv.com
Welcome Home
®
rio grande valley
219 W. Nolana • McAllen, TX 78504
956-687-5115
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Welcome Home WINTER TEXAN • • • November 10, 2021
October 13, 2021 • • • Welcome
Home WINTER TEXAN • • • www.welcomehomergv.com
GUARANTEED QUALITY FUN!
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t’s official! November 1 marks the start of what we call Winter Texan Season! It’s the most wonderful time of the year when northerners travel down to the Rio Grande Valley in search of fun in our sunny, tropical climate. Welcome Home RGV is more than ready to welcome you, especially after hosting 200 RV resort managers and activity directors at a season kick-off
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luncheon last month. Thank you, Texas Trails RV Resort, for serving up lunch! The consensus is--it’s going to be a great season! We can’t wait to have you in our midst, and if you decide to stay year-round, even better! For more information, visit welcomehomergv.com, or call us at 956-687-5115. •
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November 10, 2021 • • • Welcome
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>> REMEMBRANCE AND HOPE CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1
matches his soft-spoken demeanor, as support for his wife, Rachel, a recent kidney transplant recipient. “My goal in life is to make her happy,” he says. In the process, he also shares his artistic talents, referencing a quotation by Pablo Picasso, “The meaning of life is to find your gift. The purpose of life is to give it away.” Tijerina has been an artist since high school and was featured on a television show as a sculptor when he was stationed in Hawaii. He began creating pieces in metal a
few years ago at the urging of his niece, Amanda. She enlisted her uncle to help with her booming Etsy metal-lawn-art shop, Garden Dreams Decor, to help create brightly colored hibiscus, sunflowers, and butterflies. But Tijerina doesn’t sell his poppy creations. The poppy design he drafted in his dream is made of sheet metal and fashioned into a cluster of bold red petals with a black center, positioned on a green stem. But, there’s an added design feature: a loop at the
top of the stem to secure a pair of dog tags. Tijerina crafts the tags, embossing one with the name and rank of its recipient, the other with the phrase, “lest we forget.” He’s thoughtful about sharing his poppy creations. In lieu of sending a birthday card to a veteran friend, one who served 30 years in the military, he opted to send a poppy. He recently gifted 23 poppies to the McAllen Heritage Museum, which has a dedicated veteran-focused section,
sharing poppies with veterans still with us, to lift spirits and offer hope. When asked what Veterans Day means to him, Tijerina prefers not to put emphasis on his standing as a veteran but on veterans as a whole, a group he is proud to be a part of. “I know there’s a lot of sweat, tears, being away from family and your town to protect other people’s rights to freedom,” Tijerina says. “I’m honored that someone would pay respects or be respectful to anyone who did serve.” •
The RGV Veterans Photo Project Special to Welcome Home RGV
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husband-and-wife team are behind the RGV Veterans Photo Project, creating portraits of veterans holding photographs of themselves from their time of service. The couple has photographed over 250 veterans, including Purple Heart recipients and Korean War and World War II veterans. By night, Martin Buitron owns and operates a pest-control service, and by day he and wife Laura Marquez, a veteran Marine, are “giving back to veterans, one photo at a time.” The inspiration came from the Veterans Portrait Project, but the
motivation came when Buitron’s father, a veteran, passed away. “I was looking at the color guard and the 21-gun salute from the local V.F.W. Basically, I wanted to do something for them.” A few images from the project are on display at the McAllen Heritage Center, and a larger portion of images is exhibited at Sunrise Mall in Brownsville in front of Dillard’s department store. To learn more, visit veteranphotoproject.com or follow the RGV Veterans Photo Project on Facebook. •
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n addition to an expansive chronological history exhibit on the City of McAllen, the McAllen Heritage Center showcases a small, year-round exhibit honoring veterans. The museum is located in downtown McAllen at 301 S. Main Street, with special hours of operation. Go to mcallenheritagecenter.com to plan your visit. •
Honor Our Veterans November 11 in McAllen Special to Welcome Home RGV
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he public is invited to a Veterans Day program at 9 a.m. Thursday, November 11, at the Veterans War Memorial of Texas, located at 29th Street and Col. Plummer Drive in McAllen. The Nikki Rowe High School Band will play patriotic music at 8:30 a.m. as a prelude to the program. The keynote speaker will be Senator Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa, a Vietnam War veteran who served in the U.S. Marine Corps.
Please make plans to join us for this program to honor, thank, and remember all of our veterans, from the birth of our nation to the present day. The precious freedoms we enjoy every day were hard-fought-for but easily lost. We must NEVER let that happen. For further information, contact Col. Frank Plummer at 956-6312511 or Jan Hartzog at 956-6053486. •
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Uniforms of Veteran-Turned-Museum-Curator Student Part of MostHistory Exhibit Special to Welcome Home RGV
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here is no question the Rio Grande Valley is an intensely patriotic region. Part of this is because of the high number of United States military personnel who grow up in the area. One reason Valley residents join the military is to experience the world. That is true for Johnny Gonzales, the facilities and security officer at the Museum of South Texas History in Edinburg. “I wanted to experience the world in a way I could not afford to do staying in the Rio Grande Valley,” Gonzales said. Gonzales, 52, was born in Freemont, Ohio, to a migrant farmworking family. The family resided in Mercedes, Texas, during the offseason and traveled to Ohio, where the family harvested and planted cucumbers and tomatoes. One of Gonzales’ favorite memories is when they dropped off tomatoes and cucumbers at the local Heinz plant in Fremont. “The sweet aroma of vinegar, sugar, and fresh vegetables being processed at the Heinz plant gave the trips an overwhelming sensory overload,” Gonzales said. After graduating from Mercedes High School in 1987, Gonzales enlisted in the Army and then attended basic training at what he
described as “a hot and humid Fort Benning, Georgia.” Gonzales served 20 years as an infantry airborne ranger, participating in combat tours: “Operation Just Cause” in 1989, “Desert Shield/ Desert Storm” in 1990-1991, “Operation Restore Hope” in Somalia 1993, and consecutive tours in support of “Operation Iraqi Freedom” and “Enduring Freedom.” He also provided humanitarian assistance to the survivors of Hurricane Andrew in 1992 in Florida. In 2008, he was offered a promotion, but instead, he decided to retire. “I turned down a promotion to sergeant major and retired as a first sergeant in favor of returning home and caring for my elderly parents and my children,” Gonzales said. He returned to civilian life and then went to college. Using the G.I. Bill, he pursued a degree in history with a minor in anthropology at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley. “At an early age, I became an archeologist,” Gonzales explained. “Laboring as a migrant farm worker in the fields of northwestern Ohio provided a rich source for artifacts, namely arrowheads, coins, and an occasional bone pipe. That
fascination never left.” During his studies, Gonzales became a volunteer at MOSTHistory through recommendations by UTRGV professors. He also enrolled in a Museums Studies Class that provided a direct connection to handling exhibit artifacts. While he completed coursework in 2021, Museum CEO Francisco Guajardo offered him a full-time job with responsibilities that included oversight of buildings and facilities. Working at the museum, however, requires tasks outside the job description. “Working here gives me the opportunity to work on curator duties, which will be the subject I pursue as I work toward a master’s degree,” Gonzales said. “[And] archiving old photos for future use, along with helping out as a docent when the need arises.” Gonzales lives in Mercedes with his wife, Adela. He enjoys the company of his six children and stepchildren and five grandchildren. Asked if he has encouraged his children to join the military, he had some reservations. “I have learned that the best thing to do is to allow them to spread their wings and chase their dreams and support them,” Gonzales said. “My
Johnny Gonzales
youngest is debating joining the Air Force or Navy upon [graduation].” Gonzales’ Battle Dress uniform and Class A uniform, along with other artifacts, will be on display in the Veterans Day Exhibit, which will run November 6 to November 21 at the Museum of South Texas History. For more information, please contact the museum at 956-383-6911. •
T EXA S O N CO LO G Y.CO M
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November 10, 2021 • • • Welcome
Home WINTER TEXAN • • • www.welcomehomergv.com
••• sp tted RGV in the
Exclusive to Welcome Home RGV Photo by Eryn Reddell Wingert
Andy Bowie County Park • South Padre Island
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his lush trail is the direct route from RV parking at Andy Bowie County Park to the Texas Gulf Coast off South Padre Island. Andy Bowie is one of two Cameron County parks located on the island. Andy Bowie is positioned to the north, and Isla Blanca is on the south end of the Island. •
H Palm Shadows Veterans H
Special to Welcome Home RGV
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he best way we thought we could include all of our veterans, even those who have yet to arrive this season, was to take a photo at our Veterans Wall of Honor. •
H Veterans at 1015 RV Park H in Weslaco with their distinguished guests
Special to Welcome Home RGV
www.welcomehomergv.com
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Welcome Home WINTER TEXAN • • • November 10, 2021
H Valley Veterans Memorials H Photos special to Welcome Home
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hroughout the Rio Grande Valley, there stand parks, monuments, spires, and statues--all tributes to those who served in the United States Armed Forces. Those seen here include McAllen’s Veterans War Memorial, the Iwo Jima Monument
H Thank You for Your Service H Special to Welcome Home RGV
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n honor of Veterans Day, Welcome Home Winter Texan invited local resorts and RV parks to submit your veterans’ group photos. Thank you for your submissions. THANK YOU, Veterans, for your service and sacrifice to our country.
On Veterans Day and throughout the year, we honor you. Please continue to submit your veterans’ group photos to news@welcomehomergv. com by November 15 to be featured in the month of November. •
in Harlingen, San Benito Veterans Memorial, the Blue Star Memorial in Brownsville, Liberty Park in San Juan, Laguna Vista Area Veterans War Memorial, and the Veterans Memorial Monument in La Feria. •
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November 10, 2021 • • • Welcome
Home WINTER TEXAN • • • www.welcomehomergv.com
Come to Kingsville to Celebrate Holiday Season Kick-Off Ranch Hand Weekend and La Posada de Kingsville Special to Welcome Home RGV
King Ranch® Ranch Hand Breakfast
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he 30th Annual Ranch Hand Breakfast will be held November 20. The event features an authentic, hearty cowboy breakfast, cooked and served outdoors on the historic King Ranch. Team roping and old-time cow-camp-cooking demonstrations are part of the activities, along with live music and storytelling. The event was postponed in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. “We’re excited to bring this event back to the community,” said Bob Cleek, area manager for hospitality with King Ranch. “After the difficulties everyone has faced over the past year, it’s important to make sure these traditions continue.” Tickets are $6 and are available at the King Ranch Saddle Shop, the King Ranch Museum, the King Ranch Visitor Center, the Kingsville Visitors Center, and at the door. The Ranch Hand Breakfast is always held the Saturday before Thanksgiving. It serves as a fundraiser for the annual La Posada de Kingsville Lighted Christmas Parade. Daniel Morales, chairman
of the La Posada de Kingsville Committee, said the annual event will be held December 4. “The La Posada Parade is the event that marks the beginning of the Christmas season in Kingsville,” Morales said. “We’re happy to be able to hold it again this year, and we know the community will come out to support it.” In 2019, the Parade had more than 150 entries and drew thousands of onlookers to downtown Kingsville.
Ranch Hand Weekend
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n partnership with both the Ranch Hand Breakfast and La Posada de Kingsville the Kingsville Visitors Center developed a series of events to surround the popular King Ranch festivities. This year’s events will include a Ranch Hand Weekend Wine Walk Holiday Sip and Shop Tree Lighting, a downtown festival, and the Ranch Hand Weekend Country Concert. The festivities begin Friday, November 19, at 5:00 p.m. with an opportunity for guests to visit
Main Street Kingsville merchants and vendors while they sample 18 varieties of wine, five different types of craft beer, and a special beverage mixed with Kingsville’s very own award-winning Wild Horse Distillery Rum. Visitors can also experience a non-alcoholic Wine Walk and sample a variety of sparkling grape
juice, sparkling apple cider, and other special virgin beverages. Ranch Hand Weekend Holiday Wine Walk passports come packed with coupons and savings and include a keepsake wine glass and lanyard or a glow-in-the-dark COME TO KINGSVILLE CONTINUED ON PAGE 19 >>
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Cross Off Bucket List Item on South Padre Island Special to Welcome Home RGV
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lthough South Padre Island places heavy focus on water sports and activities, we have a variety of things to do that can also be enjoyed without getting your feet wet. One of our more popular activities that many tourists don’t realize we offer is horseback riding on the beach. If you follow our main road all the way north until it ends, that’s where you will find South Padre Island Adventure Park. They offer several activities for people who enjoy being out in the sun with their family. With over 40 acres of land, they provide an expansive zip-lining experience, a variety of animals and birds in their petting barn, and, of course, a massive stable with over 100 horses for their horseback-riding sessions. The South Padre Island Adventure Park has multiple times and sessions throughout the day to match visitors’ preferences. Their horseback-riding sessions allow visitors to explore the remote portion of the island that not many visit. The rides done in the early morning or at sunset are longer than those done during the day because the temperature is cooler and is
better for the horses’ health. These rides also allow the riders to enjoy the view of the sunrise and sunsets as they travel along the beach and sand dunes for the hour-and-a-half session. Their family rides can be done either in the morning or afternoon and are only an hour long. This ride is perfect for folks who want a quicker ride or are on a tighter schedule. The moonlight ride is the only one that occurs a couple times a month, four days before--and leading up to-the full moon. They time it so that when the session begins, you can get a beautiful view of the moon rising over the water. These rides are perfect for couples and families alike, as anyone can learn to ride a horse. If families would like to have their children experience the fun of horseback riding, they are more than welcome to bring them along on the family rides. They can also take them to their petting barn, too, where they have pony rides available for children who aren’t ready to tackle riding a horse. For more information on outdoor activities, visit our website at sopadre.com. •
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November 10, 2021 • • • Welcome
Home WINTER TEXAN • • • www.welcomehomergv.com
Health Talk Luncheon November 16 in Weslaco Special to Welcome Home RGV
The half-mile Sticks & Bones Trail at Quinta Mazatlán features an outdoor Ofrenda, paying respect to endangered South Texas plants and animals. The educational and fun trail features over 30 outdoor exhibits and is open throughout the month of November.
Quinta Mazatlán Offers Outdoor Dia de los Muertos Ofrenda Altar honors threatened, endangered animals and plant species Special to Welcome Home RGV
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n Mexico, Dia de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, is a celebration and a reunion of the departed with their families. On this day, an altar with an ofrenda, a Spanish word for “offering,” is prepared to remember and celebrate departed loved ones. The belief is that during the Day of the Dead, the loved ones come to visit their living relatives. The ofrenda altar helps the dead observe, smell, and taste. The most common ones have three levels, which represent heaven, earth, and the underworld. The six most common objects found on altars include: calaveras (skulls), cempaxuchil (marigold flowers), papel picado (perforated paper), pan de muerto (bread of the dead), salt to quench the thirst of souls, and photographs of the loved ones who have passed. The Outdoor Ofrenda at Quinta Mazatlán in McAllen honors animal and plant species that are threatened or endangered. These animals could become extinct in the near future, without the help and protection of people. The loss of land in its natural state is the number one cause for species to decline and disappear. Some of the endangered species in Texas include the ocelot and jaguarundi. These cats need large spaces of thorn forest to survive, tracts of at least 100 acres of dense brush. Large birds that are endangered include the stately Whooping Crane, which is five feet in height, and the Eastern Brown Pelican, with a six-foot wingspread.
Highly prized falcons that are endangered include the Northern Aplomado Falcon and the Peregrine Falcon. Other threatened species known in the Rio Grande Valley are the Kemp’s Ridley Sea Turtle and the Texas Horned Lizard. There are also many plants that are endangered, like the beautiful star cactus and the black lace cactus. “Why should we care about endangered species? Our ecosystem is like a spider web. It is held together by all the plants, animals, water, air, and nutrients, each being a thread in the web,” said Colleen Hook, manager of Quinta Mazatlán. “When threads are removed, other threads are weakened until the entire web collapses. So when animals and plants disappear from an ecosystem, it is an indication that the area is becoming less habitable for all animals, including people.” Enjoy the fall season and take time to honor and remember ancestors, both animals and plants. The Sticks & Bones trail through the woods at Quinta Mazatlán, sponsored by the McAllen Orthodontics Group, is open throughout November. The trail is free with park admission, $3 for adults, $2 for children three and older. Children two and under are free. Please follow current COVID-19 safety guidelines while in the park. For more information, contact Quinta Mazatlán at 956-681-3370 and follow Quinta Mazatlán on social media. •
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r. Valeska Balderas, gastroenterologist with Texas Gastroenterology Institute, P.A. in Weslaco and McAllen, will discuss Colon Cancer Screening and Prevention during a free health talk and luncheon for Winter Texans Tuesday, November 16, from 12:30 to 1 p.m. at the KMC Conference Center, a free-standing, two-story building on the west side of Knapp Medical Center, 1408 E. 8th Street in Weslaco. Balderas recommends colonoscopy screenings for average-risk men and women 45 years of age or older as a way to prevent colon cancer. Colon cancer is one of the most common cancers but also one of the most preventable with early detection. Balderas was born and raised in the Valley and is board certified in gastroenterology. She received her medical degree from the University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston and then completed internal medicine training at the University of Texas Southwestern in Dallas. She completed a three-year gastroenterology fellowship at the same institution. Balderas then went on to the University of Texas Health Science Center San Antonio, where she completed an advanced fellowship in endoscopic ultrasound and endoscopic retrograde
Dr. Valeska Balderas
cholangiopancreatography (ERCP), a leading-edge medical procedure that treats problems associated with the bile and pancreatic ducts, ranging from gallstones to cancers of the gastrointestinal system. Balderas’ talk November 16 is free and open to the public and will include a complimentary light lunch and a drawing for door prizes, including gift certificates to local restaurants. For more information or to RSVP, please call 956-973-5142 or email MSwartz@PrimeHealthCare.com.•
Check Your Health at Golden Palms Health Fair Special to Welcome Home RGV
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oin us at the Golden Palms Health Fair Thursday, November 11, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in our courtyard. See you there! •
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Let’s Go to The Oyster Bar Tasty memories since 1950
by Gretchen Losi
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n the heart of one of Rio Grande Valley’s most coveted historic downtowns lies a hidden pearl called The Oyster Bar. If you’re feeling nostalgic and would love the opportunity to step back in time, gold wallpaper and all, this is the spot for you. The minute you walk in, you are transported back to a simpler time. The original gold-foil wallpaper and kitschy 1950s décor, along with the old-fashioned red vinyl dining sets, will instantly take you back. It’s the tastiest time warp you’ll experience. Justo and Snookie Barrientes opened the now-iconic doors and created a special place for so many over the years. Retired, but still living in Brownsville, the family is still spoken of fondly by old patrons. “They were the hardest working couple I ever met,” said Josie Cappadona. Esther Garza, also of Brownsville, looks back fondly on some 70 years’
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Things I Have Learned by Bill Ward
T O D AY ’ S W I S D O M
“Luck affects everything; let your hook always be cast; in the stream where you least expect it, there will be a fish.” Ovid
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have a distinct memory of a near-miss event back in high school. I had a Honda motorcycle and spent a lot of time just cruising my town, going nowhere in particular. As I putted along down one street, I spotted a young lady who I had a bit of an eye for, sitting on her front step, about 50 feet from the road, reading a book. I waved, and she smiled and waved back. Cool! A few minutes later, I came back the other way, and she was still
there. I waved again and so did she. I knew in my heart that was a signal to be brave, something hard to do for 16-year-old boys. So I pulled up and stopped and asked her if she wanted to take a ride. She said yes. As she got up and walked toward me, my heart stopped. It wasn’t her. It was her older sister. I had picked up the wrong girl. I think I recovered nicely, and we took a ride, a ride my heart just wasn’t in. It was a near miss. Who knows what might have happened if I had gotten the right girl? Sometimes there is a price to a near miss, sometimes a reward. In college, a bunch of us guys went out and tipped a few on a Saturday afternoon, then returned to the dorms. Someone had the bright idea to go watch TV in the girls’ dorm. Almost as soon as we sat down,
The Original Oyster Bar 1057 E. Levee Street, Brownsville worth of memories at this iconic local favorite. From going as a young girl with her mother to sharing quiet moments there with her husband and now enjoying the same fish lunch with her grandchildren, the Oyster Bar has been a tasty favorite for her family throughout four generations. Patricia Guillermo Williams remembers meeting the owners in the 60s when she was 12 years old. “I was friends with their granddaughter, Hilda,” she said. Williams remembers how she would go in and spend a whopping 85 cents on her seafood lunch. Benny Garza remembers taking his Christmas money and using it to treat his mom to the best seafood LET’S GO TO THE OYSTER BAR CONTINUED ON PAGE 18 >>
A somewhat random and reckless look at life from a fairly old guy
Life is a Series of Near Misses one of my friends passed out with his eyes open. OK, what are the odds of that ever happening? The two young ladies in the TV lounge thought this was quite amazing, and we struck up a conversation. That conversation with one of them has lasted 46 years, although she still does most of the talking. One near miss that should have happened and didn’t and one near miss that should not have happened but did. How many more of those have we all experienced in life yet didn’t even know about? One of the things I have learned is that every moment has its possibilities. A lot of those possibilities come from blind luck; others from seeing opportunity and pursuing it. But sometimes you have to almost wonder if there are some strings being pulled somewhere that
guide us through all those potential routes in life. I’m just sayin’. •
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 .
12
November 10, 2021 • • • Welcome
Home WINTER TEXAN • • • www.welcomehomergv.com
DANCE ENTERTAINMENT & SHOWS
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
N Abram Rd, Mission. Pass the hat. (417) 588-1588., Sleepy Valley Resort. Karaoke, 05:30 PM, 2215 E West Blvd, Mercedes. Free admission. (956) 565-2638., Llano Grande Resort. Dance w/Texas Wheels, 07:00 PM, 1048 N Alamo Rd, Alamo. $7.00 pp. (956) 783-5008., Casa Del Valle. Dance w/Steven May & The Southern Knights, 07:00 PM, 101 E Sioux Rd, Pharr. $6.00 pp. (956) 787-6461., Tip O’ Texas.
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 2021 Rio Grande Valley Birding Festival, 07:00 AM, 701 Harlingen Heights Dr, Harlingen. www.rgvbr.org for registration and event brochure, Harlingen Convention Center. Veterans Day Memorial, 09:00 AM, 29th St & Col. Plummer Dr, McAllen. (956) 631-2511., Veteran’s War Memorial of Texas. The 2021 Health Fair, 10:00 AM, 2101
PASTA NIGHT
Every Wednesday • Public Invited 5:30 PM to 7:00 PM $10.00 a plate (menu varies)
FRIDAY DINNER
Public Invited 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM $10.00 a plate (menu varies)
‘FAMOUS’ FRIED CHICKEN DINNER
Sunday • Everyone is Welcome Call to Order at 956-968-7114 or Carry-Out Available November 14, December 12 January 9 and 23 February 13 and 27 March 13 and 27 Dinners Served • $12.00/plate 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM Plates include 3 Pieces of our “famous” fried chicken, green beans,mashed potatoes, cole slaw, and your choice of tea or coffee Homemade pies and cakes are available for a small extra charge
956-968-7115
201 South Border Ave. Weslaco, TX 78596
Treasure Hills Blvd, Harlingen. Free Dance w/Leslie Blasing, 07:00 PM, admission. (956) 430-3100., Golden 602 N. Victoria Rd, Donna. (956) Palms Retirement & Healthcare Center. 782-3263., Victoria Palms Resort. Lunch @ Cafe Grande, 11:00 AM, 2215 The Sweet Science of Bruising, 07:00 E West Blvd, Mercedes. Cost for meals. PM, 3217 W Wilson Rd, Harlingen. (956) 565-2638., Llano Grande Resort. Visit hcisdpa.org., Harlingen CISD Veterans Day-Honoring All Those Who Performing Arts Center. Served, 11:00 AM, 4137 N Minnesota The Wizard of Oz, 07:00 PM, 1216 St, Harlingen. Free admission. (956) N Shary Rd, Mission. $10.00 Adults, $8.00 Seniors, $5.00 HS & 245-1276., Pendleton Park. Nature Exposed, 01:00 PM, 301 S Main JH, $3.00 Elementary., Sharyland St, McAllen. Free admission. (956) Pioneer High School. 687-1904., McAllen Heritage Center. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 2021 Happy Hour w/Regan James, 03:00 Rio Grande Valley Birding Festival, 07:00 PM, 1701 N International Blvd, AM, 701 Harlingen Heights Dr, Harlingen. Weslaco. Pass the hat. (956) 968- www.rgvbr.org for registration & event 0322., Snow to Sun RV Resort. brochure, Harlingen Convention Center. All You Can Eat Fish Fry, 04:30 PM, 2215 All You Can Eat Breakfast Buffet, 07:30 E West Blvd, Mercedes. $9.75 pp. (956) AM, 2215 E West Blvd, Mercedes. 565-2638., Llano Grande Resort. $8.00 pp. (956) 565-2638., Llano Veterans Day Meal, 05:00 PM, 610 N FM Grande Resort. 492, Palmview. $9.00 pp, $11.00 w/ Craft Fair, 08:00 AM, 1051 W Bus Hwy dessert. (956) 581-6718., Eldorado Acres. 83, Donna. (603) 396-2786., Bit-OSCHEDULE OF EVENTS CONTINUED ON PAGE 14 >>
Breathe Easy with Colair
Weslaco Elks Lodge #2057
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. •
November 10 - 16, 2021 Rio Grande Valley Birding Festival, 07:00 AM, 701 Harlingen Heights Dr, Harlingen. www.rgvbr.org for registration and event brochure, Harlingen Convention Center. Lunch @ Cafe Grande, 11:00 AM, 2215 E West Blvd, Mercedes. Cost for meals. (956) 565-2638., Llano Grande Resort. Nature Exposed, 01:00 PM, 301 S Main St, McAllen. Free admission. (956) 687-1904., McAllen Heritage Center. Happy Hour w/Leslie Blasing, 03:00 PM, 400 E 18th St, Weslaco. Pass the hat. (956) 405-8197, Leisure World. Social Hour Dance w/Ron Moshier, 03:00 PM, 2712 S International Blvd, Weslaco. Pass the hat. (425) 5016773., Siesta Retirement Village. Happy Hour w/Curt James, 03:30 PM, 9099 N Mile 2 West, Mercedes. (956) 565-2044., Paradise South RV Resort. Hump Day Happy Hour, 04:00 PM, 2301
MEALS
Looking for something to do here in the Rio Grande Valley? Our calendar of events has been the
WEEK OF
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2021
JAM SESSIONS
Bar & Grill and Special Event Center
WE ARE OPEN!
TRY OUR TEXAS SIZE PORK TENDERLOIN
Wednesday ............... 11am - 8pm Thursday .................. 11am - 8pm Friday ...................... 11am - 8pm Saturday................... 11am - 8pm Sunday..................... 11am - 8pm
Relax outside by the Rio Grande River. Plenty of outside seating on our covered deck & patio. Plenty of inside dining area as well.
*Event Center Available for Park Gatherings*
LIVE MUSIC Sundays • 1:30PM - 5:30PM
Steven May & Leon Mann DEC 12 • Renaissance Rockers
Riverside Dreamer RIVER TOURS CALL TODAY 956-581-4477 *** RESERVATIONS SUGGESTED *** Additional boat rides added as needed 1 HOUR RIVER TOUR
Wednesday ............1:00pm Thursday ...............1:00pm Friday ...................1:00pm Saturday................1:00pm
SENIORS $12
• Covered Cushion Seating • Enclosed Windows & Heating
$ CASH ONLY $
PRICE INCLUDES TAX
No Outside Beverages / Food Allowed Passenger Minimum for Departures: 15 for 1 Hour
PRIVATE TOURS AVAILABLE Now Hiring For All Positions.
956-581-1033 • www.ontheriver.net 214 E. Chimney Rd. • Mission Riverside in-MissionTx
• Extended Service Plans Available • Worry-free Installation
• No Hassle Satisfaction Guarantee • Free NO Obligation Quote • We Service All Models
956-255-8900 ColairInc.com
Proudly Serving the RGV for over 35 years!
www.welcomehomergv.com
•••
Welcome Home WINTER TEXAN • • • November 10, 2021 13
Fly with Us
Somewhere Over the Rainbow
Sunday Drive to San Juan Basilica
Special to Welcome Home RGV
S
haryland High School invites you to take a trip with Dorothy and her friends to the Land of Oz as they present the timeless tale of The Wizard of Oz. Indulge in all of the action as the glitter and glam adventure is being presented by the Sharyland Theater Program. The amazing group of talented castand-crew students performs classic musical numbers and fun for all ages to enjoy. Times and dates for this walk down the yellow brick road are November 11 and 12 at 7:00 p.m. and November 13 at 3:00 p.m. and at 7:00 p.m. We are clicking our heels in hopes of seeing everyone soon at the Sharyland High School Auditorium…because there’s no place like home. •
by Gretchen Losi
T
hroughout the picturesque grounds of the acclaimed Basilica of Our Lady of San Juan Del Valle, lies the 12 stations of the cross. Masterfully sculpted statues adorn the grounds, depicting the events of the Passion of Christ from condemnation to resurrection. Open from dawn to dusk, the manicured grounds are a favorite for folks wanting to take a nice half-mile jaunt where one is sure to be touched by the beauty and majesty of each station. There is a prayer shrine for those longing to take a knee and light a candle in prayer and a stunning fountain with several spouts for visitors to collect Holy Water.
While you’re there be sure to stop in the Basilica Gift Shop for inspiration in the form of books, statues, rosary beads and more. •
DIRECTIONS: 400 Virgen de San Juan, San Juan PHONE: 956-787-0033 HOURS: Daily 6:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.
14
November 10, 2021 • • • Welcome
Home WINTER TEXAN • • • www.welcomehomergv.com
DANCE ENTERTAINMENT & SHOWS
JAM SESSIONS
MEALS
SALES
>> SCHEDULE OF EVENTS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 12 Heaven RV & Mobile Home Resort. Handi Quilter Virtual Class, 10:00 AM, 2706 N 10th St, McAllen. $50.00 pp. (956) 638-1961., A Block Away Quilt Shop. The Sweet Science of Bruising, 10:00 AM, 3317 W Wilson Rd, Harlingen. Visit hcisdpa.org., Harlingen CISD Performing Arts Center. Lunch @ Cafe Grande, 11:00 AM, 2215 E West Blvd, Mercedes. Cost for meals. (956) 565-2638., Llano Grande Resort. Garza Produce Truck, 11:00 AM, 7320 W. IH 2, Mission. (956) 5808454., Pleasant Valley Resort. Nature Exposed, 01:00 PM, 301 S Main St, McAllen. Free admission. (956) 687-1904., McAllen Heritage Center. “Opry” Jam, 01:00 PM, 4900 N McColl Rd, McAllen. Free admission. (956) 450-0458., McAllen Mobile Park. Happy Hour w/Curt James, 03:00 PM, 1701 N International Blvd, Weslaco. Pass the hat. (956) 455-4195., Snow to Sun RV Resort. Happy Hour w/Carlos Canas, 05:00 PM, 2215 E West Blvd, Mercedes. Pass the hat. (956) 565-2638., Llano Grande Resort. Karaoke & Supper, 05:30 PM, 2301 N Abram Rd, Mission. $7.00 pp. (956) 581-1871., Sleepy Valley Resort. Friday Night Coin Show, 06:00 PM, 1200
Ash Ave, McAllen. $2.00 pp. (956) 5663112., McAllen Chamber of Commerce. Texas Wheels, 07:00 PM, 1400 Zillock Rd, San Benito. (956) 3995800., Fun N Sun RV Resort. The Wizard of Oz, 07:00 PM, 1216 N Shary Rd, Mission. $10.00 Adults, $8.00 Seniors, $5.00 HS & JH, $3.00 Elementary., Sharyland Pioneer High School. 50’s Sock Hop, 07:00 PM, 34 Tony Gonzalez Dr, Brownsville. Free admission. (956) 551-2314., Gonzalez Urban Center. Dance w/Curt James, 07:00 PM, 1415 Aladdin Villas Blvd. West, Mission. $8.00 pp. (956) 581-1288., Aladdin Villas. Dance w/Renaissance Rockers, 07:00 PM, 1645 S Bentsen Palm Dr, Palmview. $10.00 pp. (956) 5850703., Bentsen Grove Resort. Dance w/Texas Storm, 07:00 PM, 501 W Owassa Rd, Pharr. $6.00 pp. (956) 782-7886., Texas Trails RV Resort. Valley Symphony: From the New World, 08:00 PM, 801 Convention Center Blvd, McAllen. $39.00 pp. (956) 6611615., McAllen Performing Arts Center.
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 13, 2021 77 Flea Market, 05:00 AM, 5955 N Expwy, Brownsville. (956) 546-5586. Rio Grande Valley Birding Festival, 07:00 AM, 701 Harlingen Heights
Dr, Harlingen. www.rgvbr.org for registration and event brochure, Harlingen Convention Center. Saturday Morning Breakfast, 07:00 AM, 610 N FM 492, Palmview. (956) 581-6718., Eldorado Acres. Saturday Breakfast, 07:30 AM, 100 E Hackberry Ave, McAllen. (956) 6828081., Paradise Park Inc. McAllen. Donuts & Coffee, 08:00 AM, 7320 W IH 2, Mission. $1.00 pp. (956) 5802940., Pleasant Valley Resort. Park Wide Yard Sale, 08:00 AM, 702 Champion Ave, Port Isabel. Free admission. (956) 943-7340., Port Isabel Park Center. Patio Sale, 08:00 AM, 1051 W Bus Hwy 83, Donna. (603) 396-2786., BitO-Heaven RV & Mobile Home Resort. Brownsville Farmers’ Market, 09:00 AM, 1534 E 6th St, Brownsville., Linear Park. RGV Quilt Guild, 09:00 AM, Trophy Gardens, 800 State Hwy 495, Alamo. (651) 271-3819. Nature Exposed, 12:00 PM, 301 S Main St, McAllen. Free admission. (956) 687-1904., McAllen Heritage Center. Country Jam Session, 12:30 PM, 2135 S Bentsen Palm Dr, Palmview. (956) 581-1932., Green Gate Grove. Loud & Clear Veteran’s Music Festival, 01:00 PM, 801 N Bryan Rd, Ste
174, Mission. (956) 445-5421., 5X5 Brewing Co.. The Sweet Science of Bruising, 02:30 PM, 3217 W Wilson Rd, Harlingen. Visit hcisdpa.org., Harlingen CISD Performing Arts Center. Harlingen Farmers Market, 03:00 PM, 2nd & Tyler by City Hall, Harlingen. (956) 622-5053., Harlingen CVB. The Wizard of Oz, 03:00 PM, 1216 N Shary Rd, Mission. $10.00 Adults, $8.00 Seniors, $5.00 HS & JH, $3.00 Elementary., Sharyland Pioneer High School. Dance w/Texas Wheels, 07:00 PM, 600 State Hwy 495, Alamo. $7.00 pp. (956) 783-4587., Winter Ranch RV Resort. Dance w/Diego, 07:00 PM, 800 State Hwy. 495, Alamo. $7.00 pp. (956) 685-5300., Trophy Gardens RV Resort. The Wizard of Oz, 07:00 PM, 1216 N Shary Rd, Mission. $10.00 Adults, $8.00 Seniors, $5.00 HS & JH, $3.00 Elementary., Sharyland Pioneer High School. Dance w/Curt James, 07:00 PM, 1501 S Airport Dr, Weslaco. $8.00 pp. (956) 968-3140., Southern Comfort RV Resort. Dance w/Steven May & The Southern Knights, 07:00 PM, 2215 E West Blvd, Mercedes. $8.00 pp. (956) 565-2638., Llano Grande Resort.
MUSIC, FUN & MEMORIES
2021 - 2022 SEASON EVENTS
UPCOMING DANCE
ENTERTAINER VALLEY STAR AWARD MALE VOCALIST OF THE YEAR 2020 NOV 10 | HAPPY HOUR PARADISE SOUTH WEDNESDAY | 3:30 PM - 5 PM NOV 12 | HAPPY HOUR SNOW TO SUN FRIDAY | 3 PM - 4:30 PM NOV 12 | DANCE - Residents Only ALADDIN VILLAS | FRIDAY
7:00 PM - 10:00 PM Doors open to Public 5:30 PM Concessions and Set Ups Available • BYOB Attendance Limited to 400
Nov 13 Diego...........................$7 Nov 20 Sweetwater................. $7 Nov 27 The Bottom Line Band...$7
NOV 15 | HAPPY HOUR PALM SHADOWS - Residents Only MONDAY | 5 PM - 7 PM
Dec 4 Diego............................$7 Dec 11 Steven May & The Southern Knights.........................$7 Dec 18 Sweetwater.................. $7 Dec 31 The Bottom Line Band New Year’s Eve..............$15
NOV 16 | PRIVATE - Residents Only JOHN KNOX VILLAGE | TUESDAY
**Advance Ticket Sales required for New Year’s Eve
NOV 13 | DANCE SOUTHERN COMFORT SATURDAY | 7 PM - 10 PM | $8
Contact Activity Office for info 956-685-5300 Call (956) 455-4195 for scheduling
THANK YOU
TUES HAPPY HOUR | 3 PM - 5 PM (unless otherwise noted) Pass the bucket Nov 16 • Regan James Nov 23 • Richard Kline DJ Nov 30 • Southern Harmony
WED SHOWS | 7 PM
Dec 22 • Ralph Kuster Christmas Show • $8 Dec 8 • Razz Ma Tazz • Donations
FRI DANCES | 7 PM - 10 PM
BYOB & Snacks / Popcorn & Soda for sale Nov 12 • DJ Dance / Western Theme • (Pass the bucket) Nov 19 • Steven May & The Southern Knights • $8 Nov 26 • Sweetwater • $8 Dec 31 • Southern Vibes (New Year's Eve) $15 • 8:00pm - Midnight • Hot refreshments, hats, etc provided
EVERY SATURDAY : JAM SESSION BYOB & Snacks | 11:00 AM - 1:00PM Come and sing or play or just listen
CRAFT FAIR | Nov 12 | 8 AM - 12 PM Breakfast for sale
PATIO SALES | Nov 13 | 8 AM - 12 PM Pick up map in North Hall
1051 W. Bus Hwy 83 | Donna, TX 78537
www.bit-o-heaven.net
Stephanie & Jason Skelly, Activity Directors
956-787-7717 800 TX-495 • Alamo, TX 78516
www.rvresorts.com/trophy-gardens.html
Bit-O-Heaven RV and Mobile Home Resort
Susan Thomas, A C T I V I T Y
DIRECTOR
603-396-2786 / fulltimers@earthlink.net
FRIDAY DANCE 7PM | $6 Nov 12 Nov 19 Nov 26 Dec 3 Dec 10 Dec 17 Dec 24
unless stated otherwise
Texas Storm Bottomline Band The Southern Steven May &Knights Regan James Curt James Sweetwater Chrismas Eve, No Dance
entertainment at Dec 5 • Razz Ma Tazz • 2 PM • $5 door
Dec 7 • B & C Musical Theater Group
Presenting WINTER WONDERETTE a Dinner Theater • $13 • advance ticket sales end Dec 1st.
Dec 12 • Rusty Rierson • 7 PM - 9 PM
• $9
• Mask recommended but not required •
FOR INFORMATION / TICKET PURCHASES
956-782-7886
501 W. Owassa Rd.• Pharr, TX 78577 WE NOW ACCEPT CREDIT CARDS
www.welcomehomergv.com
DANCE ENTERTAINMENT & SHOWS Josiah Boornazian, Saxophone & Mark Ramirez, Percussion, 07:00 PM, 1201 W University Dr, Edinburg. Free Admission. (956) 665-3881., UTRGV Performing Arts Complex Auditorium. Man of La Mancha, 07:00 PM, 3217 W Wilson Rd, Harlingen. Visit hcisdpa.org for tickets., Harlingen CISD Performing Arts Center.
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2021 77 Flea Market, 05:00 AM, 5955 N Expwy, Brownsville. (956) 546-5586. Rio Grande Valley Birding Festival, 07:00 AM, 701 Harlingen Heights Dr, Harlingen. www.rgvbr.org for registration and event brochure, Harlingen Convention Center. Church Service, 09:00 AM, 205 S Stewart Rd, Mission. (956) 5859264., Fiesta Village. Church Service, 09:00 AM, 1320 W Frontage Rd, Alamo. (956) 7878221., Alamo Rec Veh Park. Church Service, 09:15 AM, 2301 N Abram Rd, Mission. (956) 5811871., Sleepy Valley Resort. Sunday Brunch w/Ocean View, 10:00 AM, 100 Padre Blvd, SPI. $21.99 pp. (956) 426-9066., Beach Resort at SPI. South Padre Island Farmers Market,
11:00 AM, 8605 Padre Blvd, SPI., The Shores. Ruthi’s Rock-n-Country, 11:00 AM, 208 Victoria Ave, Donna. Free admission. (956) 464-3502., DonWes Flea Market. El Dorado Estates. Man of La Mancha, 02:30 PM, 3217 W Wilson Rd, Harlingen. Visit hcisdpa.org for tickets., Harlingen CISD Performing Arts Center. Joy Norris & Jess Elrick Benefit Show, 04:00 PM, 7130 W IH2, Mission. $10.00 pp. (956) 519-8650., Restful Valley Ranch. Sunday Stuffed Pork Chops, 04:00 PM, 2240 S Bentsen Palm Dr, Palmview. $7.00 pp. (419) 606-9501., Lamplighter MH Subdivision. Gospel Jam, 05:30 PM, 2240 S Bentsen Palm Dr, Palmview. (319) 750-2308., Lamplighter MH Subdivision.
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2021 Ruler Quilting w/Archie Class, 01:00 PM, 2706 N 10th St, McAllen. $30.00 pp. (956) 638-1961., A Block Away Quilt Shop. Beginner Line Dance, 01:30 PM, 1402 S Cage Blvd, Pharr. $2.00 donation appreciated. (956)7877839., Pharr South. Karaoke w/Dave Doty, 02:00 PM, 602 N
**** FRIDAY DANCES ****
listed ALL DANCES 7:00PM-10:00PM unless otherwise Singles are Welcome
4770 N. Mayberry Rd. Mission, TX 78573 NOV 19 | DIEGO & EDITH FRI | DANCE • 7 PM - 9:30 PM | $8 DEC 9 | SOUTHERN HARMONY THURS | HAPPY HOUR • 5:30 PM - 7 PM DEC 21 | RUSTY RIERSON TUES | 7 PM - 9 PM JAN 30 | JAMIE LAYTON ABUNDANCE QUARTET SUN | 1:30 PM - 3:30 PM
NOV 13 | YARD SALE SATURDAY | 8 AM - 12 PM
6.580.45ta4ils5 95 Call Office for de
Nov 12 Nov 19 Nov 26 Dec 3 Dec 10 Dec 17
Renaissance Rockers .................. $10.00 Curt James (Glow Stick) ................... $8.00 Diego & Edith ................................ $7.00 Time Machine ............................... $8.00 The Howlers (Day of the Dead) .......... $8.00 The Agency ................................. $10.00 Tickets on Sale : Nov 29, 2021
Dec 31* Hot Rodz ..................................... $25.00 *New Year's Eve Dance 8:30PM-12:30AM (w/late lunch) Tickets on Sale : Dec 3, 2021
Jan 8
Rewind (Rip Roaring 20's) ............... $10.00
Jan 12 Jan 14
Tickets on Sale : Dec 17, 2021 Randy Webb (Wednesday Dance) ............. $7.00 Diego & Edith .......................................... $7.00
**** ENTERTAINMENT **** ALL ENTERTAINMENT 7:00PM Pay at the Door (unless otherwise noted)
Dec 1 Jan 1 Jan 5 Jan 16 Jan 19 Jan 23 Jan 25 Jan 26 Feb 2 Feb 6 Feb 9
Lindley Creek Christmas Show ..... $10.00 The Baker Family .......................... $9.00 Redneck Revival ........................... $8.00 Nu-Blu (3-5pm Sunday) .................. $10.00 Rusty Rierson ................................ $8.00 Winter Texan Orchestra..........(pass the hat) Jason Coleman ................. $8 Adv / $10 Door (Floyd Cramer's Grandson) Helen Russell & Company ............. $8.00 Abundance Quartet ........................ $8.00 Mike Walker ............................... $10.00 Mollie B......................... $14 Adv / $16 Door Tickets on Sale : Jan 6, 2022 • Doors Open 5:30p
1645 S. Bentsen Palm Drive Palmview, TX 78572
956-585-0703 Paula McSpadden Activity Director
•••
Welcome Home WINTER TEXAN • • • November 10, 2021 15
JAM SESSIONS
MEALS
Victoria Rd, Donna. Pass the hat. (956) 782-3263., Victoria Palms Resort. High Beginner Line Dance, 02:30 PM, 1402 S Cage Blvd, Pharr. $2.00 donation appreciated. (956) 7877839., Pharr South. Happy Hour w/Diego & Edith, 03:00 PM, 1701 N International Blvd, Weslaco. Pass the hat. (956) 9680322., Snow to Sun RV Resort. Happy Hour w/The Howlers, 03:00 PM, 7300 Monroe St, Mission. Pass the hat. (956) 519-8597., Enchanted Valley Ranch. Monday Hamburger w/Mushroom Gravy, 04:00 PM, 2240 S Bentsen Palm Dr, Palmview. $7.00 pp. (419) 6069501., Lamplighter MH Subdivision. A Taste of France Dinner, 04:30 PM, 2215 E West Blvd, Mercedes. $14.25 pp. (956) 565-2638., Llano Grande Resort. Country Jam, 05:30 PM, 2240 S Bentsen Palm Dr, Palmview. (419) 6069501., Lamplighter MH Subdivision.
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2021 Beginner Line Dance, 08:30 AM, 1402 S Cage Blvd, Pharr. $2.00 donation appreciated. (956) 7877839., Pharr South. Man of La Mancha, 10:00 AM,
SALES
3217 W Wilson Rd, Harlingen. Visit hcisdpa.org for tickets., Harlingen CISD Performing Arts Center. Lunch @ Cafe Grande, 11:00 AM, 2215 E West Blvd, Mercedes. Cost for meals. (956) 565-2638., Llano Grande Resort. Taco Tuesday, 11:30 AM, 2301 N Abram Rd, Mission. $7.00 pp. (417) 588-1588., Sleepy Valley Resort. Social Jam, 12:00 PM, 400 E 18th St, Weslaco. Free admission. (956) 405-8197., Leisure World. Happy Hour w/Diego, 03:00 PM, 938 S Alamo Rd, Alamo. (956) 7832600., Alamo Rose RV Resort. Happy Hour w/5th Wheel Daddies, 05:00 PM, 2215 E West Blvd, Mercedes. Pass the hat. (956) 5652638., Llano Grande Resort. Twisted Tuesday w/Garza Produce, 05:30 PM, 7320 W IH 2, Site 183, Mission. Free admission. (956) 5802940., Pleasant Valley Resort. Man of La Mancha, 07:00 PM, 3217 W Wilson Rd, Harlingen. Visit hcisdpa.org for tickets., Harlingen CISD Performing Arts Center. In Concert w/REVOICED, 07:30 PM, Christian Fellowship Church, 901 N Loop 499, Harlingen. (956) 392-9757. •
16
November 10, 2021 • • • Welcome
SAVORY TREATS
Home WINTER TEXAN • • • www.welcomehomergv.com
SWEET CRAVINGS
RECIPE CONNECTION
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! •
•••
Fruit Basket Upset!
•••
• • • with Sandy Olson • • •
Peaches ripe enough that the juice runs down your chin when you bite into them are a major treat. There are all types of peaches, either freestone (where the flesh separates easily from the pit) or clingstone (where the flesh must be cut from the pit). Most of what we find in our markets are the freestone variety, which is much more pleasant for eating out of hand.
Lifelong foodie, restaurant reviewer, cooking teacher, and summer Iowan, Sandy Olson spends the Winter-Texan season at Palm Shadows RV Park in Donna. This season, Sandy will be sharing recipes to help readers enjoy the abundance of delicious fruits we find in our local markets. Sandy claims she’s been “a bit fruity” since childhood. You can contact Sandy at midwestfoodie@gmail.com.
Peach Buckle • 5½ cups peeled and sliced, ripe, fresh peaches • 1 cup plus 2 tablespoons sugar, divided • 1/3 cup real butter • 1 teaspoon baking powder • ¼ teaspoon salt • 2 large eggs • 1 cup plus 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour, divided • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon Grease a 9x11-inch baking pan with butter. Then dust with flour and shake out any excess. Fifteen minutes before baking the cake, preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Place the peaches in a glass or plastic mixing bowl, add ½ cup sugar, and toss to coat. Let these stand for one hour. Drain and reserve any juice. Using an electric mixer, cream the butter until fluffy. Add ½ cup of sugar and the baking powder and salt. Beat until combined. Add the eggs and beat, just until blended. Add 1 cup of the flour, and beat until blended. Spread this batter on the bottom of the prepared pan. Top with the sliced peaches. Combine the reserved peach juice with 2 tablespoons of flour and the cinnamon. Sprinkle over the peaches. Bake on a middle rack for 50-55 minutes or until the cake is cooked through and is deep golden brown. Serve with real whipped cream. •
•••
Winter Sweetz
•••
Grapefruit and Rosemary Roasted Chicken Submitted by Winter Sweetz
Servings: 1 - 2
• 2 grapefruits, 1½ juiced and ½ sliced • 2 Tbsp. honey, plus more for drizzling • 6 sprigs rosemary, divided • 4-5 skin-on chicken thighs • Salt and pepper • Cauliflower rice, for serving Add grapefruit juice, 2 Tbsp. honey, and two sprigs of chopped rosemary to a bowl or dish with chicken. Season with salt and pepper. Let marinate for at least an hour and up to 3 hours. Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium heat and sear chicken for two minutes per side. Remove from the stove and finish cooking in the oven at 400 degrees for 15 minutes. Remove from the oven, drizzle chicken with honey, and let rest about 10 minutes. Add cooked cauliflower rice, season with salt and pepper, and garnish with rosemary sprigs and grapefruit slices. • Winter Sweetz Texas Red Grapefruits are brought to you by Lone Star Citrus Growers. Our farmers work year-round ensuring the healthiest trees to yield the best-quality grapefruit. Lone Star Citrus Growers are also proud members of GO TEXAN.
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Welcome Home WINTER TEXAN • • • November 10, 2021 17
Special to Welcome Home RGV
This Week at Patron
November 13 at 7 p.m. UTRGV Performing Arts Complex in Edinburg Free Admission
Dr. Josiah Boornazian, saxophone, and Dr. Mark Ramirez, percussion Faculty Artist Series
Dr. Josiah Boornazian presents an evening of his original, improvised electronic jazz music, along with faculty colleague, Dr. Mark Ramirez. November 13 at 7 p.m. November 14 at 3 p.m. TSC Performing Arts Center in Brownsville Free Admission
UTRGV Opera Theater
Student Performance Series Join the UTRGV Opera Theatre for a concert of Scenes and Solos. This performance showcases our young artists in a variety of genres, from opera to musical theatre to jazz. Theatre lovers of the Valley, come join us! November 14 at 2 p.m. UTRGV Library Auditorium in Edinburg Free Admission November 14 at 7 p.m. UTRGV BMSLC 1.217 Multipurpose Hall in Brownsville Free Admission
UTRGV Clarinet Ensemble Fall Concert Student Performance Series
The UTRGV Clarinet Ensemble performs its Fall Concert, featuring a variety of traditional and contemporary clarinet ensemble works. November 14 at 4 p.m. UTRGV Performing Arts Complex in Edinburg Free Admission
Brendan Kinsella, piano Faculty Artist Series
In collaboration with the Department of Dance, faculty artist Dr. Brendan Kinsella presents a recital of John Cage’s Sonatas and Interludes for Prepared Piano. Inspired by Hinduism, avant-garde music, and groundbreaking choreography, Cage’s milestone work is a testament to the power of human imagination and musical creativity. Visit utrgv.edu/patron for a complete list of events. •
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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. • Expires : 3/31/2022
>> LET’S GO TO THE OYSTER BAR CONTINUED FROM PAGE 11
dinner they ever shared. “Money well spent,” said Garza. Charles Lopez fondly remembers his mother taking him there as a child. “Funny thing. She would never order a soft drink for me, so I would just chew and chew and chew on my favorite friend shrimp until she asked me what was wrong. I would then say, in a struggling voice, ‘I can’t swallow,’” he laughed. “That’s all it took. Here came the Coke. Worked every time.” To this day, it is a beloved spot for locals, tourists, and Winter Texans who love to brag about the food and
top-shelf service. While you’re there, be sure to check out the BTX mural on the historic Capitol Theater right across the street. •
Expires : 3/31/2022
GET ONE
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FREE MEAL
Salisbury Steak
Fish and Chips
with mashed potatoes & corn
5.00
$
$
Iced Tea Included
12.99
Also includes two sodas or ice tea
No Mix and Match. Tax not included.
No Mix and Match. Tax not included.
Only Available Saturday & Sunday
Now serving Decaf Coffee.
If more than 6 people in your party, please call ahead
If more than 6 people in your party, please call ahead
DOLPHIN WATCH & ECO TOURS SUNSET CRUISES PORT OF BROWNSVILLE NATURE TOURS DEEP SEA FISHING - RED SNAPPER BAY FISHING
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956.761.2764 956.761.4752 www.islatours.com Find us on Facebook
Purchase Tickets
in Advance @Hotel Lobby
November 25, 2021 11:00am - 2:00pm
Adults $19.95
600 Kingston Way Donna, Texas
(956) 782-3200 10% Discount Winter Texans
facebook.com/vpalms www.vpalms.com
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Welcome Home WINTER TEXAN • • • November 10, 2021 19
>> COME TO KINGSVILLE CONTINUED FROM PAGE 8
Trunk Shows at The Lamb’s Loom Special to Welcome Home RGV
You read it right! We had a few
imaginations into…well…adorable trunk shows last year, and we all just doesn’t cover it. We have just had so much fun that we decided been given a sneak peek of all of to do it again. We are blessed to the cute critters coming our way have several friends who lend their in December, and we’re looking talents to The Lamb’s Loom and forward to unloading our little zoo so help out around here in lots of ways. y’all can come and shop. So we decided our trunk shows over There are more trunk shows to the next several months will feature come in January and February, so a few local friends/crafters we think stay tuned. When you shop here, we y’all will enjoy. call these “Presents with a Purpose” For November, we’re baggin’ it. because you are contributing to our This month, we are featuring a few ministry. of our friends who just love to sew- We love hearing from y’all, and -among other things. For several there are lots of ways to stay in touch. years, they have been making bags You can join us on our website at for our Baa-Baa Boutique, and they thelambsloom.com and follow us on are just beautiful. For our November Facebook and Instagram. And, of trunk shows, they have added new course, there are lots of fun articles and unique project bags, hand- right here in Welcome Home Winter embroidered bags, and smaller Texan. pouches. These are perfect as a The Lamb’s Loom is located at purse, for shopping, and for gifts. 1102 Tamarack in McAllen. We are You can never have enough bags, open Wednesday through Saturday right? from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Additional December’s trunk show will parking is available in the rear via feature a menagerie of handmade Upas Avenue. critters from our friends Alys and Remember, The Lamb’s Loom is Ann. Unique in their own way, these not just a yarn shop; it’s a ministry two friends each transform their and a mindset. • #stitchitforward • #LambsLoomFun
stadium cup. There are a variety of ways for all participants to enter to win awesome prizes. The Ranch Hand Weekend Holiday Wine Walk will end at 9:00 p.m. and incorporate the tree lighting that starts at 7:00 p.m. outside of the 1904 Train Depot Museum. The Texas A&M University-Kingsville Senior Art Exhibit will also be on display in the Kleberg Bank lobby. Christmas Carolers get everyone in the holiday spirit, and they’ll be followed by live music and a street dance with Isaac Jacob. Passports are not needed to attend, but they can be purchased in advance at RanchHandWeekend. com. Proceeds for this event benefit Toys for Tots of Kleberg and Kenedy counties. “Last year, we had our hardest year ever,” said Toys for Tots Coordinators Stefanie Perryman and Rebecca Sanchez. “We completely depleted all our resources, so Toys for Tots is so incredibly thankful to be the beneficiary of this year’s Ranch Hand Weekend festivities.” In addition to the Ranch Hand Weekend Holiday Wine Walk, there will be another Holiday Wine Walk December 4 ahead of the annual La Posada de Kingsville Illuminated Night Parade. Guests can return to the December event with their wine glasses and stadium cups and enjoy a $5 discount.
Ranch Hand Weekend Festival
A
fter filling up on your authentic Cowboy Breakfast at the King Ranch®, visitors are invited back to Main Street for food, fun, inflatables, live music, two-stepping, and line dancing! The Ranch Hand Weekend Festival also features a Ranch Hand Car Show, with everything from modern to imports to lifted categories and more, featured by Texas Rides. The Texas A&M University-Kingsville Art Department will also showcase Steamroller Printing, an exhibit that has become very popular during the event. For the kiddos, the Kingsville Parks and Recreation Department has partnered with many groups to bring in an Archery Turkey Shoot, succulent planting, rock painting, and even a touch tank provided by Texas Parks and Wildlife Marine Development Fisheries. Vendors come from far and wide to attend this festival, and there is no shortage of
Christmas shopping opportunities. Ranch Hand Weekend Country Concert
C
ountry music fills the air Saturday night at the JK Northway Expo Center, with the Ranch Hand Weekend Country Concert. This year’s headliner is Grand Ole Opry member Steve Wariner. In his fivedecade career, Wariner has released 20 albums, won four GRAMMY Awards, and produced many songs that are still fan favorites. Some of his top tracks include “Holes in the Floor of Heaven,” “Lonely Women Make Good Lovers,” “Some Fools Never Learn” and “Two Teardrops.” Wariner will share the stage with Lauren Corzine and the Isaac Jacob Band, the show openers. “We started the Ranch Hand Weekend Country Concert in 2018 to keep visitors engaged all weekend long,” said Kingsville Director of Tourism Janine Reyes. “We’ve seen tremendous success with these events, thanks to the strong foundation the Ranch Hand Breakfast has built for decades.” The Ranch Hand Weekend Country Concert will also benefit Toys for Tots of Kleberg and Kenedy counties. Steve Wariner has donated some autographed lithographs and merchandise that will be raffled off at the concert. “You just have to feel good about being able to attend a fabulous event that also benefits an awesome cause at the same time,” Reyes said. “Everyone is encouraged and invited to attend.” General Admission concert tickets can be purchased online. A limited number of VIP seats are still available and can be purchased by calling the Kingsville Visitors Center at 361-592-8516. Visitors can also purchase a Ranch Hand Weekend Getaway from a handful of hotels and tickets to the weekend’s events, along with a bottle of wine that will be in your room at check-in. Information on both can be found at RanchHandWeekend.com. •
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