Winter Texan Weekly Volume 9 Issue 2

just connecting dots. www.welcomehomergv.comWe’re • • • Welcome Home WINTERthe TEXAN • • • March 16, 2

We’re just connecting th

VOLUME 9 • ISSUE 2 • October 18, 2023

VOLUME 7 • ISSUE 22 • March 16, 2022 • • • your official connection to the rio grande valley • • •

hellohello from kristi

FROM K R IS TI

•••

For those of you And just like

who just arrived, Home! that,Welcome this is the last Welcome Home the season! It has The next fewWinter weeks Texan will beofbusy been once a wonderful with early birds; Novemberwinter, and we hits, we’ll behave over enjoyed the top sharing with so it with you! many of our winter friends back I’d like to take this opportunity to where you belong! invite you to mention stick around, to extend I’d be remiss if I didn’t a the few days, weeks, that the fun your didn’tstay stopfor over months... even itindefinitely! The summer months.

We or packed fun keeps coming; we keep dancing, full of activities and spent a lot dining,our andConverted having fun all summer of energy keeping long, and we’d love to have you join Te x a n s o u t a n d a b o u t . O u r us.

Summer Supper Club allowed us the opportunity to get If you feel out you and must go, I’d like to explore and leave the to cooking invite you help ustospread the word someone else. also Texas incor-to everyone you aboutWe South porated monthly day-tours into meet along the way and those you see our programming, along with an Invite them to every day back home. overnight tripjoin to Corpus Christi. you next season! WePhotos would bylove Welcome Home RGV Staff My time to was mostly spent have them join us. The more the building ourmerrier! new website. After several chats with website develThis September, we will host our opers, it became clear to me that second, not would so annual no one outside our world be (thanks to the pandemic), able to understand what I Winter wanted.Texan Reunion with Cheryl and Don Matthews of Harlingen via the we’d if also like toStory invite youReddell Wingert As the old Tour, adagesogoes, you

by Eryn weekly get-togethers. to join us at one of our stops.

Stay can’t find what you’re looking for, he end Twenty-two restaurants took part this year, with a as we what announce our travelof summer was a disappointment for some… create it. So tuned that’s exactly I but in a good way. The last Wednesday in September plans. special incentive: Special to Welcome Home RGVopportunities to win a two-night stay did! It is a work in progress, so as marked the final stop for Welcome Home RGV’s Summer at Margaritaville Beach Resort South Padre Island, you peruse the site, please let me It any has comments been a realorpleasure to serve Supper Club to the chagrin of participants like Anne and t seems sponsorlike of this year’s supper we club. (Another new element only yesterday know if you have throughout Mooney of Donna.

Summer 2023 was the incorporation of tours. More were in celebrating the long-awaited suggestions! you this year. We will workWally the summer months on all our TheofMooneys have been taking part in the Supper Club an upcoming issue of Welcome Home Winter returnonofthat so in many of our friends. programming so next season will be for a few years.

“It’s always an adventure to go,” shares Texan.) ~We’re just the one!

Now, here we are bidding you evenconnecting better than this Anne.

The Matthewses were among the lucky winners, dots. • farewell and safe travels. All of Summer Supper Club is a Dutch-treat visit to different taking the opportunity to celebrate their 47th wedding Safe travels, Y’all! • us atanniversary Welcome in Home local restaurants, each week from April through SeptemJuly. RGV Cheryllook enthusiastically shares, “It forward to your return.

Plans are ber.

It’s an opportunity for Converted Texans to enjoy was totally awesome!”

We’re just connecting the dots, food and friendship.

FAREWELL WINTER TEXAN SEASON CONTINUED ON PAGE 2 The Mooneys have done just that, becoming friends CONTINUED ON PAGE 4 >>

Summer Never Tasted So Good

T

I

Kristi

Kristi

THANK YOU TO OUR THANK YOU TO OUR 2023-2024 2021-2022 EASON SPONSORS SEASON SSPONSORS

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October 18, 2023 • • • Welcome Home WINTER TEXAN • • • www.welcomehomergv.com

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

We Winter Texans!

Publisher Kristi Collier kristi@welcomehomergv.com

Administration Amie Gray agray@welcomehomergv.com

Event Manager Anne Marie Martin events@welcomehomergv.com

Business Development

Calendar Submissions!

“Do you have events and activities you want to see on the Welcome Home calendar? Go to welcomehomergv.com.

Click on Event Calendar - Submit your event. Friday at 5:00 p.m. is the weekly deadline”. •

• • •

Leigh Woolridge leigh@welcomehomergv.com The celebrating continued at the Riverside Club in Mission during the Club’s finale. The Matthewses took to the dance floor as Curt James and Bruce Boudreau belted out popular tunes, while baskets of burgers, shrimp, and pork tenderloins were served up.

It was a fitting end to a months-long food fest across the Rio Grande Valley.

James, whose background is in the restaurant industry, saw a need five years ago for restaurants to garner business during slower periods and for Converted Texans looking for something fun to do.

“It’s neat to see the fellowship develop,” says James, who coined the phrase, “We love Summer Supper Club!”

This year, Chico and Jackie Garvis of Bentsen Grove RV Resort in Mission led the enthusiastic chant after each meal as a “thank you” to restaurant servers and managers.

Peter Loring of Seven Oaks Resort in Mission, who attended all but a handful of stops with a group including his wife, Sue, shared some of his favorites: Cheddar’s (“Of course, that’s always been a favorite!”), the new 492 BBQ in Edinburg, and Texas Roadhouse in McAllen.

On average, 60 people attended each week. The final stop, which is always a big draw, boasted nearly 250.

“We went out with a bang!” says Welcome Home RGV owner Kristi Collier.

“It did not disappoint!” •

Chris Leadbetter chris@welcomehomergv.com

Travel Division Kristy Meyer travel@welcomehomergv.com Sarah Denzer sarah@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: info@ welcomehomergv.com

• • •

Follow Us

Stella Riester stella@welcomehomergv.com

on Social Media!

Accounting Angela Blanchard accounting@welcomehomergv.com

Editor Chris Ardis news@welcomehomergv.com

Graphic Design Affinity Media Consulting LLC

Content Creator / Photographer

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.

Eryn Reddell Wingert eryn@welcomehomergv.com

www.facebook.com @whrgv @wintertexan

Promotional Division Elizabeth Seal elizabeth@welcomehomergv.com

www.youtube.com Find on YouTube Channel “Welcome Home Rio Grande Valley”

Cristi Klostermann promotions@welcomehomergv.com Sabina Adames sabina@welcomehomergv.com

Activity Coordinator

www.instagram.com @welcomehomergv @wintertexans

Fran Adams fran@welcomehomergv.com

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Check out our website! www.welcomehomergv.com • • •

© Copyright 2023 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.

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October 18, 2023 • • • Welcome Home WINTER TEXAN • • • www.welcomehomergv.com

America’s Largest Digital Christmas Tree Transforms into Ca-Tree-na for Fiesta de Palmas

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In a spectacular transformation set

to dazzle audiences far and wide, McAllen is taking its annual festival, Fiesta de Palmas, to a whole new level. The city’s beloved and iconic Digital Christmas Tree, recognized as the largest of its kind in the nation, is undergoing a magical metamorphosis into the world’s largest Catrina light show, aptly named “Ca-Tree-na.”

Fiesta de Palmas, known for its rich cultural celebrations and vibrant traditions, will now feature this extraordinary fusion of holiday spirit and Mexican folklore. The Ca-Tree-na promises to be a visual spectacle that will leave festivalgoers awe-inspired and enchanted.

Mayor Javier Villalobos expressed his excitement about this unique transformation, saying, “McAllen has always been at the forefront of innovation, and the Ca-Tree-na is a testament to our city’s creative spirit.

This dazzling fusion of cultures is a true reflection of our diverse and vibrant community.”

The Ca-Tree-na light show will showcase intricate and colorful Catrina-inspired designs, paying homage to the Mexican holiday tradition of Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead). The transformation of the Digital Christmas Tree will be a marvel of technology, with thousands

of LED lights synchronized to create mesmerizing patterns and animations.

“We wanted to honor our Mexican heritage while continuing to spread holiday cheer,” said Joe Vera, assistant city manager for the City of McAllen. “The Ca-Tree-na is a symbol of unity, celebrating the rich traditions of both Christmas and Dia de los Muertos in a truly one-of-a-kind way.”

Fiesta de Palmas attendees can look forward to nightly light shows set to music, creating an immersive and enchanting experience for visitors of all ages. The Ca-Tree-na promises to be a focal point of the festival, capturing the hearts of residents and visitors alike.

The Ca-Tree-na transformation is the result of collaborative efforts between the McAllen Convention Center, McAllen Parks and Recreation Float Studio, and McAllen Public Works teams, who have worked tirelessly to bring this unique vision to life.

Fiesta de Palmas, with the Ca-Tree-na as its centerpiece, will run from October 20 to October 22 at the McAllen Convention Center.

The festival will feature an array of cultural performances, food vendors, artisan markets, and family-friendly activities, making it a must-attend event for everyone in the Rio Grande Valley. •

www.welcomehomergv.com • • • Welcome Home WINTER TEXAN • • • October 18, 2023

McAllen High School Counselors Host First Fall Market October 21

The McHi Bulldog counselors are

excited to host their first Fall Market at the McAllen High School campus Saturday, October 21, from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Over 60 vendors

have signed up to set up booths-indoors and outdoors--to sell a wide variety of items, from jewelry, baked goods, spirit items, and tote bags to c o m i c s , d é c o r, soap, plants, and so much more!

There will be McAllen ISD student performances throughout the day and music to make it a fun time for all. Come out and support the McHi counselors, and shop at our local-vendor stands to find the perfect gifts. Remember--the holidays are fast approaching.

McAllen High School is at 2021 La Vista Avenue in McAllen. •

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Spotted in the RGV Rio Hondo, Texas

The golden-fronted woodpecker is a common sight--and sound--in the Rio

Grande Valley; drumming on window frames, fences, and tree branches. While its beak is essentially used to dig for bugs, the barbed tip of the golden-fronted woodpecker’s tongue is just as important for catching insects. They also use their beaks to carve out holes for nesting in the trunks of dead palm trees. •

Photos by Eryn Reddel Wingert

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October 18, 2023 • • • Welcome Home WINTER TEXAN • • • www.welcomehomergv.com

Resilience–A Sansei Sense of Legacy Now at IMAS

The International Museum of Art &

Science (IMAS) is proud to present Resilience—A Sansei Sense of Legacy, which delves into the enduring impact of Executive Order 9066 on Japanese Americans during World War II. This insightful exhibition brings together the artistic reflections of eight accomplished artists, shedding light on the experiences of those affected by this pivotal moment in history. This exhibition is supported by the Japanese Chamber of Commerce of McAllen, which consists of 16 sister companies.

In 1942, in response to the bombing of Pearl Harbor

by Japanese forces, President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed into law Executive Order 9066. The law ordered the forced imprisonment of all Japanese Americans living on the west coast of the United States, which had the second largest population of Japanese people living outside of Japan.

Told from the point of view of Sansei (third generation) Japanese Americans, Resilience—A Sansei Sense of Legacy is an exhibition of eight artists whose work reflects on the effect of EO9066 as it resonated from generation to generation. While several of the artists in Resilience employ traditional Japanese methods in the construction of their work-Lydia Nakashima Degarrod’s use of boro stitching on her works on paper and Judy Shintani’s kimono cutouts

honored in ceramic vessels--others use iconography relating to Japanese culture as a jumping-off point Exhibition artists are Kristine Aono, Reiki Fuji, Wendy Maruyama, Lydia Nakashima Degarrod, Tom Nakashima, Roger Shimomura, Judy Shintani, and Jerry Takigawa.

Co-curated by artist Jerry Takigawa and Gail Enns, Resilience was conceived to serve as a catalyst to cultivate social dialogue and change around the issues of racism, hysteria, and economic exploitation still alive in America today. The eight artists featured in Resilience were selected

because of their personal connection to the subject matter, because their work is well respected within the Japanese American community--as well as within the art world--and due to their activism on the subject of incarceration camps.

Takigawa and Enns explain, “The Sansei generation is perhaps the last generation of Japanese American artists that can be directly connected to the WWII American concentration camp experience, making their expression particularly significant in clarity of emotion. These artists lived through the years of ‘gaman’ or silence about the camps.

That silence made a deep impression on the artists selected for Resilience.”

Resilience—A Sansei Sense of Legacy is on view at IMAS through January 7, 2024. Please check the IMAS website at theimasonlineorg or call 956-681-2800 for more information. •

www.welcomehomergv.com • • • Welcome Home WINTER TEXAN • • • October 18, 2023

Dear Diary...

Sharyland High School Carpe Diem

Players Troupe is proud to announce the stage adaptation of the posthumously published 1947 book, The Diary of a Young Girl by Anne Frank.

There will only be two performances.

Both performances, Tuesday, October 24, and Wednesday, October 25, will be at 7 p.m. Doors open promptly at 6:30 p.m. Performance entrance is free; however, donations can be made at the door to support the Sharyland Carpe Diem Players Troupe. All performances will be held in the Sharyland High School Auditorium, 1216 N. Shary Rd. in Mission.

The Diary of Anne Frank, written by Anne Frank and adapted by Frances Goodrich and Albert Hackett, follows the Franks and Van Daans as they are hiding in the annex. They experience extreme highs and lows together; the main character, Anne, grows up a great deal in the short amount of time they are in hiding.

The Sharyland Carpe Diem Players Troupe promises to bring magic to the stage with the adaptation of this

Kappa Delta Invites Winter Sisters to Event

K appa Delta Sorority chapters

popular book. Troupe president and stage manager Sarah Louallen said, “Having worked on a play with such historical importance has been a great learning experience, and working with a talented cast and crew has made such an impact--which I hope we can leave on the audience. •”

7

nationwide celebrate Founders Day in October to honor the organization’s rich heritage. Founded October 23, 1897, Kappa Delta has 137 active collegiate chapters and 504 alumnae organizations across the United States.

“We invite our ‘winter sisters’ to join us for brunch Saturday, October 28, as we commemorate our founders,” said Carol Hudsonpillar, chair of the Rio Grande Valley Alumnae Chapter.

“We enjoy meeting visiting KDs and welcome them to participate in our social gatherings and philanthropic projects.”

The Founders Day brunch begins at 10:30 a.m. at Hacienda Las Mariposas, 6117 N. Ware Road in McAllen.

Hudsonpillar said the RGV alumnae chapter shares the same goals as the national Kappa Delta organization and is focused on services to children.

The chapter’s local philanthropy is the Children’s Advocacy Centers of Hidalgo and Starr counties, which assists children and families affected

by abuse and neglect. Kappa Delta Foundation KiDs Grants totaling $11,500 have been awarded to local advocacy centers in recent years.

For additional information or to RSVP, please contact Hudsonpillar at 956-369-0837. •

At last year’s Founders Day luncheon, the RGV Kappa Delta alumnae chapter honored its local heritage. The Delta Epsilon collegiate chapter was installed at Pan American College (now the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley) January 29, 1966.

Four charter initiates in attendance were recognized. Shown, from left, are Jani McGee, Norma Cardenas, Thelma Dyer, and Jenny Cummings.

Head Over to Port Isabel November 4 30th Annual Shrimp Cook-off and Seafood Festival

The 30th Annual

Shrimp Cook-off and Seafood Festival is a family-friendly event taking place November 4, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., at Sutherlands, 1704 W. Queen Isabella Blvd. in Port Isabel.

Enjoy live music all day by The A g e n c y, k i d s ’ games, vendors from the local Port Isabel Flea Market, and food vendors. Entry fee is $5; kids 10 and under will be admitted for free.

F o r m o r e information, call the Port Isabel Chamber of Commerce at 956-943-2262. •

Looking to Buy or Sell?

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Broker , REALTOR® #MHSLSP00048089 #TREC 540183

This team knows the 55+ market like no other in the Rio Grande Valley! If you are interested in a community customized toward your interests, hobbies, and lifestyle, we know just the place.

Connect with Real Estate by Welcome Home today to tap into our expertise—focusing solely on serving the 55+ community.

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Price Reduced! RV lot and coach house and is exceptionally private with a spacious outdoor living area for entertaining or simply sitting and enjoying the birds and butterflies in the quiet sunshine. Bath features a spa-like shower. Carol Kerr Welch, TREC540183, MHSLSP00048089, (956) 900-8487

The RV lot has full hookups and a coach house that is just waiting for you to make it your own. Use the coach house for storage or finish it to meet your needs and style. The coach house is insulated, pre-wired, has rough plumbing and a mini split HVAC system installed. Carol Kerr Welch, TREC540183, MHSLSP00048089, (956) 900-8487

Beautiful, 1 bed/1bath with Texas Room and separate laundry room.

New gas stove, new seamless gutters, and it’s FULLY FURNISHED and in immaculate condition!

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October 18, 2023 • • • Welcome Home WINTER TEXAN • • • www.welcomehomergv.com

Come to Kingsville to Sip, Shop, and Spook at HalloWine Walk It is Wine Walk season in

Kingsville again, and guests are invited to celebrate a frightfully fun wine- andbeer-tasting tour while visiting merchants and vendors in our Kingsville Main Street District Friday, October 27.

Enjoy live music and entertainment, and dress up for an opportunity to win great prizes in the costume contest. Furry friends are invited, too, for a festive howl-o-ween photo shoot with Animal Rescue Kleberg.

When you check in at Kingsville’s historic 1904 Train Depot, volunteers will take a group photo and issue you a keepsake silicone wine cup and Kingsville Wine Walk Passport that will guide you through about 30 stop-shops. At these shops, you can collect stamps for opportunities to win hundreds of dollars in prizes. The Wine Walk Passport comes packed with special savings that extend well past the event; there are several dining discounts offered to wine walkers. This year, to spread Breast Cancer Awareness, guests can pick up a pink cup. Every pink cup passport purchase will prompt a donation to Christus Spohn Kleberg’s Mammography Program for uninsured individuals in the community.

Guests can also get information from hospital staff.

There will be 14 varieties of wine on hand and some craft beer and domestic options, as well as a mocktail passport. Come early and snag a free charcuterie bag, available while supplies last.

South Texas Haunts will also be in attendance, giving Paranormal Investigation Tours at the city’s downtown Municipal Building and Ol’ Girls Kitchen. Tours will be in small-group settings and are expected to sell out.

Guests who reserve their passports early will get a code for a discount on these after-hours tours!

If you’re looking for a girls’ getaway or a romantic escape, look no further!

A handful of Kingsville hotels are

Center at 361-592-8516 for participating properties and booking assistance.

Passports are not needed to attend this spooktacular Wine Walk, but they are required for beer and wine sampling. Purchase your passport in advance to save $5 at KingsvilleTexas.com.

Passports also come filled with coupons. Proceeds for this event benefit the Kingsville ISD Education Foundation.

Check-ins start at the 1904 Historic Train Depot at 3 p.m., and sipping takes place from 5 to 9 p.m. Paranormal Investigation Tours are at 10 and 11 p.m. Stay overnight and enjoy the Kingsville Farmers Market Saturday and a Texas A&M University-Kingsville football game against Central Washington Saturday at 7 p.m. at Pepsi Field. Get more information on these events and all upcoming fall events at KingsvilleTexas.com • offering a Wine Walk VIP Experience that comes complete with a pair of passports in your room at check-in, a

special flower arrangement, a bottle of wine, and some exclusive Kingsville gifts. Call the Kingsville Visitors

www.welcomehomergv.com • • • Welcome Home WINTER TEXAN • • • October 18, 2023

11

Winner, Winner, Chicken Dinner

by Randy Hoelscher, Winter Texan

I t’s great to be back in the Rio

Grande Valley, and I look forward to providing you with some new recipes this season. This winter, I will be branching out a bit and not concentrating completely on Mexican and Tex-Mex cooking, as I have in past seasons.

For starters, let’s make some crispy baked chicken leg quarters, with only a slight Mexican influence.

I bring this up because our local H-E-B store often has chicken leg quarters for about six dollars for 10 pounds. When I buy one of these packages, I trim off the loose fat; remove the rib bones; and put them in freezer bags, usually one or two quarters to a bag, leaving the skin on.

What makes these special is the dry rub for the chicken, as well as the cooking method. The result is flavorful and crispy chicken. My official tasters are not here yet, but

my wife warned me not to lose the recipe, so it must be good.

Crispy Baked Chicken Quarters Ingredients for two: Two chicken leg quarters, excess fat and rib bones removed, skin left on the legs but loose, excess skin removed Cooking oil; enough to cover the frying pan you use with about 1/8 inch For the rub: Spice rubs can be--and are--the topic of entire books. Rub recipes are plentiful, as are prepared rubs for different types of meats. All chefs likely have their own formula, using ingredients they like. The rub concocted here was meant to infuse a bit of Tex-Mex flavor. Amounts are approximate. Taste the rub and adjust to your own taste.

1 teaspoon kosher salt

½ teaspoon ground black pepper ½ teaspoon garlic powder ½ teaspoon onion powder.

2 teaspoons chili powder 1 teaspoon smoked paprika powder 1 teaspoon ancho chili powder (optional) ½ teaspoon ground cayenne pepper Ideas – your choice. I added a little bit of chopped fresh cilantro as a garnish after baking.

Pre-heat oven to 400 degrees.

Cover a cookie sheet with aluminum foil and place a cooling rack on the sheet. If you place the chicken directly on the baking sheet, the bottoms will be soggy.

Pour the cooking oil into the frying pan and heat it to medium-high. Dry the chicken with paper towels. (It is recommended that you use a binder to help the rub stick to the chicken. I used a pastry brush to add a layer of olive oil to the legs before sprinkling with the rub. Yellow mustard is frequently used as a binder. I did not

try that, but it should work.)

Fry the legs for a couple minutes per side or until the skin crisps and turns golden. Be careful when adding the chicken to the hot oil.

It splatters! (Sorry about the messy stove top. Tip: You can do this in an electric frying pan out on the driveway; Just saying.)

Place the fried chicken on the baking sheet and bake until the internal temperature reaches a minimum of 165 degrees (safe temperature according to the CDC).

A temperature of 165 may be safe, but dark meat does not dry out like white meat, so you can enjoy juicy meat and crispy skin baking the legs until about 185 degrees or so.

When done, remove the leg quarters from the oven and set aside for five minutes or so.

(Note: Be flexible with the rub recipe. The amount of each ingredient used is approximate and about right for two leg quarters.)

ENJOY! •

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October 18, 2023 • • • Welcome Home WINTER TEXAN • • • www.welcomehomergv.com

saving you more!

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Our weekly coupon section will help you SAVE while you are here. •

Navigating the New Website: Classifieds “Filter” feature on the left side of the

One of the major changes taking

place this season involves Welcome Home RGV’s classified listings.

Classified ads will be available online only at welcomehomergv.com.

This is big news! The advantages to online-only classifieds include more information, plus photos. And Welcome Home RGV has even added rentals to its listings. The new website’s classified categories include For Rent, For Sale, and Help Wanted.

Visitors to the Classifieds section can scroll through all of the listings or narrow your search by using the

Classifieds page. This feature offers visitors even more specific search options. •

HAND-BREADED CHICKEN TENDERS Come in today for one of your favorite Cheddar’s entrees and we’ll treat you with an order of our signature appetizer! /////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////

CHIPS & HOMEMADE QUESO with purchase of one entree

Regular priced items. Equal or Lesser Value. One coupon per person or group, per day. Not valid on Holidays. Coupon has no cash value. Coupon must be presented to merchant before final bill is totaled. Not valid in conjunction with other promotions. See rules for holiday exclusions.

3020 E. EXPRESSWAY 83 • MCALLEN, TEXAS 78501 • 956-686-6766 /////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////

OFFER VALID ANYTIME

www.welcomehomergv.com • • • Welcome Home WINTER TEXAN • • • October 18, 2023

DANCE

ENTERTAINMENT & SHOWS

CALENDAR OF EVENTS WEEK OF

Oct 18 - Nov 17, 2023 WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2023 Steven May & The Southern Knights, 7:00 PM, Tip O Texas RV Resort Pharr $8.00 THURSDAY, OCTOBER 19, 2023 Diego & Edith at BS Bar, 5:00 PM, Llano Grande Resort and Golf Club Mercedes (956) 565-2638 The Agency, 7:00 PM, Bit-O-Heaven RV and MH Resort Donna (956) 464-5191 $10.00 FRIDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2023 Fiesta De Palmas Pumpkin Patch, 12:00 PM, McAllen Convention Center Fiesta De Palmas World Stage, 12:00 PM, McAllen Convention Center Fiesta De Palmas Artisan Mercado, 5:00 PM, McAllen Convention Center Karaoke with Marcos and Elizabeth, 5:00 PM, Llano Grande Resort and Golf Club Mercedes (956) 565-2638 Trivia Night, 7:00 PM, Enchanted Valley

JAM SESSIONS

MEALS

13

SALES

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

been the go-to source for our retirees to check out the lighter side of the Valley by listing entertainment events, dances, meals, jam sessions, meetings, and even garage sales.

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

Ranch $5.00 Jealous Heart, 7:00 PM, Texas Trails RV Resort Pharr $8.00 Steven May & Southern Knights, 7:00 PM, Weslaco Elks Lodge SATURDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2023 Rio Reforestation Day, , 8:00 AM, El Milagro Tract, 1320 Military Highway, Pharr Brownsville Farmers’ Market, 9:00 AM, Linear Park, Brownsville Brownsville Growing Growers Farmers Market, 9:00 AM, Firemans Park McAllen McAllen Farmers Market, 10:00 AM, McAllen Public Library McAllen (956) 255-0190 Fiesta De Palmas Artisan Mercado, 12:00 PM, McAllen Convention Center Fiesta De Palmas Pumpkin Patch, 12:00 PM, McAllen Convention Center Fiesta De Palmas World Stage, 12:00 PM, McAllen Convention Center Chrome & Candy Wellness Fair, 3:00 PM, Lowe’s Parking Lot Edinburg

Harlingen Farmers Market, 3:00 PM, Harlingen Convention and Visitors Bureau Harlingen 9th Annual Los Muertos Bailan, 5:00 PM, Promenade Park Amphitheater Edinburg Free Fiesta De Palmas Beer around the World, 6:00 PM, McAllen Convention Center $40.00 Downtown at Sundown, 6:00 PM, Downtown Harlingen Harlingen Rio Grande City Downtown Market, 6:00 PM, Britton Avenue Rio Grande City Ron Moshier, 7:00 PM, Trophy Gardens RV Resort Alamo $8.00 Burnin Ember, 7:00 PM, Enchanted Valley Ranch Mission $9.00 SUNDAY, OCTOBER 22, 2023 South Padre Island Farmers Market, 11:00 AM, The Shores South Padre Island Fiesta De Palmas Artisan Mercado, 12:00 PM, McAllen Convention Center Fiesta De Palmas Pumpkin Patch,

ENTERTAINMENT

Llano Grande Event Center Oct 31 Can-Am Halloween Dance 7-10pm $10 Nov 2 Ron Moshier & Steven May 7-10pm $10 Nov 7 Season Kickoff w/Leslie Blasing 1-3pm Fall Celebration Outdoor Event 3-6pm

HAPPY HOUR - BS Bar from 5-7pm Oct 19 Oct 20 Oct 24 Oct 27

Deigo & Edith Karaoke with Marcos & Elizabeth Steven May Karaoke with Marcos & Elizabeth

PATIO SALE - November 4 - 8am-Noon Ticket office is open Monday, Wednesday, Friday 1-4pm Tickets may be purchased day of event

2215 E. West Blvd, Mercedes

(956) 565-2638

llanogranderesort.com

12:00 PM, McAllen Convention Center Fiesta De Palmas World Stage, 12:00 PM, McAllen Convention Center Steven May & Leon Mann, 1:30 PM, River Bend Resort and Golf Club Adult Art Workshop: Papel Picado Printmaking at IMAS, 2:00 PM, International Museum of Art & Science McAllen (956) 681-2800 $15-20.00 MONDAY, OCTOBER 23, 2023 Diego & Edith, 3:00 PM, Snow to Sun RV Resort Weslaco (956) 968-0322 PTH TUESDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2023 Blue Wolf, 3:00 PM, Tropic Star RV Resort PTH Jerry Co, 3:00 PM, Bit-O-Heaven RV and MH Resort Donna (956) 464-5191 (701) 269-1045 PTH BS Bar with Steven May, 5:00 PM, Llano Grande Resort and Golf Club Mercedes (956) 565-2638 CONTINUED ON PAGE 14 >>

14

October 18, 2023 • • • Welcome Home WINTER TEXAN • • • www.welcomehomergv.com

DANCE

ENTERTAINMENT & SHOWS

JAM SESSIONS

MEALS

SALES

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 13 >>

Night Howlers, 5:00 PM, Enchanted Valley Ranch Mission WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2023 Gospel Sing, 6:00 PM, Southern Comfort RV Resort Weslaco Steven May & The Southern Knights, 7:00 PM, Tip O Texas RV Resort Pharr $8.00 THURSDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2023 State of the Season Luncheon, 11:30 AM, Victoria Palms RV Resort Donna $25 – 250.00 Texas Storm Band, 7:00 PM, Bit-OHeaven RV and MH Resort Donna (956) 464-5191 $8.00 Make-A-Wish Silent Disco, 7:00 PM, Radisson Hotel McAllen Airport $75.00 FRIDAY, OCTOBER 27, 2023 Karaoke Night at the BS Bar with Marcos and Elizabeth, 5:00 PM, Llano Grande Resort and Golf Club Mercedes (956) 565-2638 Diego & Edith, 7:00 PM, Texas Trails RV Resort Pharr $8.00 SATURDAY, OCTOBER 28, 2023 Brownsville Farmers’ Market, 9:00 AM, Linear Park Brownsville

Located in the HEART of the RGV! Friday Night Dances • 7 - 10 PM Ice and Set-ups available Please NO BILLS larger than a $20

Nov 10 • Smokin’ Gun

• $8

Dec 1

• Curt James

• $8

Dec 8

• Deigo & Edith

• $8

Dec 15 • Southern Harmony • $8 Dec 22 • Poison Ivey

• $8

Entertainment • 7 - 9 PM Doors open at 6:30 PM

Dec 12 • Southern Express • $8 Christmas Show

Happy Hour • 3 - 5 PM

Nov 7

• Curt James Pass the hat

WE LOOK FORWARD TO SEEING YOU! DIVISION OF WILDER LLC

Growing Growers Farmers Market, 9:00 AM, Firemans Park McAllen 53rd Annual Dakee Si Fall PowWow, 10:00 AM, Alton Community Center (956) 585-7011 A celebration Monarch MigrationsHallow Wings Across South Padre Island, 10:00 AM, South Padre Island Birding, Nature Center and Alligator Sanctuary McAllen Farmers Market, 10:00 AM, McAllen Public Library McAllen (956) 255-0190 Harlingen Farmers Market, 3:00 PM, Harlingen Convention and Visitors Bureau Harlingen Michael Flores & Southern Vibes Halloween Dance, 5:00 PM, Canyon Lake RV Resort Mission (956) 5804545 $8.00 Wally Garza & Texas Blood Halloween Dance, 7:00 PM, Trophy Gardens RV Resort Alamo $8.00 The Agency, 7:00 PM, Enchanted Valley Ranch Mission $12.00 Steven May & Southern Knights, 7:00 PM, Weslaco Elks Lodge SUNDAY, OCTOBER 29, 2023 South Padre Island Farmers Market, 11:00 AM, The Shores South Padre Island

MONDAY, OCTOBER 30, 2023 Diego & Edith, 3:00 PM, Snow to Sun RV Resort Weslaco (956) 9680322 PTH TUESDAY, OCTOBER 31, 2023 Halloween Happy Hour, 4:00 PM, Eldorado Acres Halloween Party with Regan James, 7:00 PM, Alamo Rec Veh Park (918) 527-2655 $7.00 Jealous Heart Halloween Dance, 7:00 PM, Aladdin Villas $9.00 EVR and SVR Present Halloween 2023 Dance with Route 66, 7:00 PM, Sleepy Valley Resort $10.00 Halloween dance with special guest CanAm, 7:00 PM, Llano Grande Resort and Golf Club Mercedes (956) 565-2638 $10.00 Curt James – Halloween Dance, 7:00 PM, Bit-O-Heaven RV and MH Resort (956) 464-5191 WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 2023 Y-Cook Cafe, 7:00 AM, Bentsen Grove Resort Palmview (956) 585-7011 Gospel Sing, 6:00 PM, Southern Comfort RV Resort Weslaco Steven May & The Southern Knights, 7:00 PM, Tip O Texas RV Resort

TUES HAPPY HOUR 3 PM - 5 PM

(unless otherwise noted) Pass the bucket Nov 7 • Bruce Boudreau Nov 14 • Curt James Nov 21 • Regan James Nov 28 • Denim & Lace Dec 5 • Bruce Boudreau

Starting Dec 7th

All You Can Eat BYOTS • Dessert for sale

ENTERTAINMENT

Doors Open 1 hour before Sunday, Dec 10

Razz Ma Tazz • 2 - 3pm $5 Wednesday, Dec 13 Lindley Creek • 7 -9pm $10

FRI DANCES

WEDNESDAYS JAM SESSION 1 PM - 3 PM Starting Dec 6th BYOB & Snacks Come & sing or play or just listen

PATIO SALE NOV 4

7 PM - 10 PM

Doors Open at 6pm. BYOB Snacks, Popcorn & Soda for sale Nov 3 • Denim & Lace

EVERY THURS SOUP SUPPER 4:30 PM | $4

$8

Nov 10 • Texas Wheels $10 Nov 17 • Rewind

$10

Nov 24 • Can Am

$8

938 S. Alamo Road Alamo, TX 78516

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 2, 2023 Regan James, 3:00 PM, Snow to Sun RV Resort (956) 968-0322 PTH Diego & Edith, 3:00 PM, Southern Comfort RV Resort Weslaco PTH FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 2023 Community Wide Yard Sale, 8:00 AM, Circle T Family Community Bruce Boudreau, 3:00 PM, Snow to Sun RV Resort (956) 968-0322 PTH Denim & Lace, 7:00 PM, Bit-OHeaven RV and MH Resort (956) 4645191 $8.00 Retro Rockers, 7:00 PM, Ranchero Village Senior Resort Park Weslaco $8.00 Steven May & The Southern Knights, 7:00 PM, Victoria Palms RV Resort Donna $8.00 The Bottom Line Band, 7:00 PM, Texas Trails RV Resort Pharr $8.00 Leslie Blasing & Curt James Show & Dance, 7:30 PM, Tropic Star RV Resort $10.00 SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 2023 Patio Sale, 8:00 AM, Palm Shadows Resort Donna Patio Sale, 8:00 AM, Bentsen Grove Resort Palmview (956) 585-7011

CRAFT FAIR NOV 10

8:00 AM - 12:00 PM Breakfast and Bakery Items for sale

1051 W. Bus Hwy 83 | Donna, TX 78537

www.bit-o-heaven.net

Bit-O-Heaven RV and Mobile Home Resort

Susan Thomas, A C T I V I T Y D I R E C T O R

603-396-2786 / fulltimers@earthlink.net

FRIDAY DANCE 7 PM | $8

2023 Oct 20 Oct 27 Nov 3 Nov 10 Nov 17

unless stated otherwise

Jealous Heart Diego & Edith Halloween Dance & Costume Contest The Bottomline Band Ron Moshier Texas Storm

ENTERTAINMENT

8:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Randy & Nancy Zuleger, Act.Dir.

(956) 783-2605

Pharr $8.00

Dec 10

Razz Ma Tazz

7PM

Dec 17

Justin Terry Christmas Show 2:45PM $9

Dec 2

Craft Show

8AM-Noon

FOR INFORMATION &TICKET PURCHASES

956-782-7886

501 W. Owassa Rd. • Pharr, TX 78577 WE ACCEPT CREDIT CARDS

$5

www.welcomehomergv.com • • • Welcome Home WINTER TEXAN • • • October January 18, 2023

DANCE

ENTERTAINMENT & SHOWS

Patio Sale, 8:00 AM, Bit-O-Heaven RV and MH Resort (956) 464-5191 Growing Growers Farmers Market, 9:00 AM, Firemans Park McAllen Veteran’s Day Parade, 10:00 AM, N Closner Blvd Edinburg Free 30th Annual Shrimp Cook-off & Seafood Festival, 10:00 AM, Sutherlands Parking Lot, Pr. Isabel Free Saturday at The Weslaco Museum, 10:00 AM, Weslaco Museum Weslaco (956) 968-9142 McAllen Farmers Market, 10:00 AM, McAllen Public Library McAllen (956) 255-0190 Widows’ Support Group, 12:00 PM, Tropical Valley Acres Mission The Howlers, 3:00 PM, Alamo Rec Veh Park (918) 527-2655 $8.00 Harlingen Farmers Market, 3:00 PM, Harlingen Convention and Visitors Bureau Harlingen Steven May & Southern Knights, 7:00 PM, Trophy Gardens RV Resort Alamo $8.00 Southern Express, 7:00 PM, Snow to Sun RV Resort (956) 968-0322 $8.00 Time Machine, 7:00 PM, Leisure Valley Ranch Mission (956) 529-1878 SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 2023 South Padre Island Farmers Market, 11:00 AM, The Shores South Padre Island MONDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 2023 Diego & Edith, 3:00 PM, Snow to Sun RV Resort (956) 968-0322 PTH Radioactive Karaoke, 5:00 PM, Victoria Palms RV Resort Donna TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2023 Bruce Boudreau, 3:00 PM, Bit-OHeaven RV and MH Resort (956) 4645191 PTH Steven May, 3:00 PM, Snow to Sun RV Resort (956) 968-0322 PTH Curt James, 3:00 PM, Alamo Rose RV Resort Alamo (956) 783-2600 The Howlers, 6:00 PM, Bentsen Grove Resort Palmview (956) 585-7011 PTH

Sweetwater, 7:00 PM, Victoria Palms RV Resort Donna $10.00 WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 2023 Y-Cook Cafe, 7:00 AM, Bentsen Grove Resort Palmview (956) 585-7011 Denim & Lace, 3:00 PM, Leisure World Weslaco Gospel Sing, 6:00 PM, Southern Comfort RV Resort Weslaco Steven May & The Southern Knights, 7:00 PM, Tip O Texas RV Resort Pharr $8.00 FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2023 Retro Rockers Band, 7:00 AM, Tropic Star RV Resort $10.00 Craft Fair, 8:00 AM, Bit-O-Heaven RV and MH Resort (956) 464-5191 Bruce Boudreau, 7:00 PM, Dream Valley Ranch Mission $8.00 Night Howlers, 7:00 PM, Ranchero Village Senior Resort Park Weslaco $8.00 Ron Moshier, 7:00 PM, Texas Trails RV Resort Pharr $8.00 Smokin’ Gun, 7:00 PM, Alamo Rose RV Resort (956) 783-2600 $8.00 Diego & Edith, 7:00 PM, Bentsen Grove Resort Palmview (956) 5857011 $10.00 Texas Wheels, 7:00 PM, Bit-OHeaven RV and MH Resort (956) 464-5191 $10.00 SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 2023 Craft Show, 8:00 AM, Bentsen Grove Resort Palmview (956) 585-7011 Growing Growers Farmers Market, 9:00 AM, Firemans Park McAllen McAllen Farmers Market, 10:00 AM, McAllen Public Library McAllen (956) 255-0190 Southern Harmony, 3:00 PM, Alamo Rec Veh Park (918) 527-2655 $8.00 Harlingen Farmers Market, 3:00 PM, Harlingen Convention and Visitors Bureau Harlingen Diego & Edith, 7:00 PM, Trophy Gardens RV Resort Alamo $8.00 Steven May & Southern Knights, 7:00 PM, Snow to Sun RV Resort (956)

JAM SESSIONS

MEALS

968-0322 $10.00 per person SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 2023 South Padre Island Farmers Market, 11:00 AM, The Shores South Padre Island Film Screening & Gold Star Family Tribute, 2:00 PM, Weslaco Public Library Theater Sunday Book Club, 2:00 PM, McAllen Public Library MONDAY, NOVEMBER 13, 2023 History of Smuggling Across the U.S.Mexico Border, 7:00 PM, McAllen Public Library TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2023 Curt James, 3:00 PM, Bit-OHeaven RV and MH Resort (956) 464-5191 PTH Southern Harmony, 4:00 PM, Pleasant Valley Resort Mission PTH WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2023 Y-Cook Cafe, 7:00 AM, Bentsen Grove Resort Palmview (956) 585-7011 Bob Buttermore, 3:00 PM, Victoria Palms RV Resort Donna PTH Curt James, 3:00 PM, Southern Comfort RV Resort Weslaco PTH Denim & Lace, 3:30 PM, Paradise South RV Resort Mercedes Gospel Sing, 6:00 PM, Southern Comfort RV Resort Weslaco Steven May & The Southern Knights, 7:00 PM, Tip O Texas RV Resort Pharr $8.00 THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2023 Diego & Edith, 3:00 PM, Pine to Palm Resort Park Weslaco (956) 968-5760 PTH FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2023

Regan James, 3:00 PM, Ranchero Village Senior Resort Park Weslaco PTH S h r i m p B o i l PA RT Y, 3 : 0 0 P M , Pirates Landing Friday Night Coin Show, 6:00 PM,

15

SALES

McAllen Chamber of Commerce McAllen (956) 566-3112 Texas Storm, 7:00 PM, Texas Trails RV Resort Pharr $8.00 The Night Howlers, 7:00 PM, Victoria Palms RV Resort Donna $8.00 Rewind, 7:00 PM, Bit-O-Heaven RV an d M H Re so r t ( 9 5 6) 4 64 5191 $10.00