Winter Texan TIMES Serving Winter Texans FromMission To South Padre Island Since 1987 Vol. 36, No. 10 © 2022 www.wintertexantimes.com Wednesday, December 21, 2022 INDEX Reunions p 4 Events Calendar p 6 Parks Calendar p 8 WintertainersTM p 8 “On the road with Jo” p 13 Taste of the Valley p 15 Business Guide p 23 Classifieds p 25 Coupon Index p 26 Rina’s Ramblings See RAMBLINGS pg. 22 Well, it looks like we are in for a cold Christmas. Doesn’t look like a white one, but it will be a bit chilly out there. It looks like most of the outdoor Christmas celebrations are done and parks and cities chose the right weekends to have parades and other activities before this run of cold weather. There are severVeterans and all community members are encouraged to give the gift of life this holiday season. The Harlingen VA will host a holiday blood drive on Wednesday, December 21 at 9 a.m. to noon. The blood drive will be held at the outpatient clinic at 2106 Treasure Hills Blvd. Harlingen VA hosts blood drive By Barb Zanetti Photos by Dennis Zanetti The Second Annual Christmas program for disadvantaged children faced many obstacles. Its Santa, a driving force, died in August. The weather for the morning of Dec. 17 was accurate: high winds, chilly temperatures, and rain. And the planning group had had only three weeks to prepare for an anticipated 200 children and their parents. The odds for its success were slim. McAllen Elks Lodge #1402 members and Winter Texans from Alamo Rec-Veh Park and Alamo Palms RV Resort decided to give it their best effort. It began with Elk Exalted Ruler Milly Hernandez renaming this year’s event in Tripp Wright’s honor. “He was our Santa. He came up with the idea for the program and pushed SO hard to make it a reality,” she said. “Tripp’s Christmas Village is his legacy, and he deserves it.” Milly said she was skeptical that they would even get the first program going. See TRIPP’S pg. 16 PROGRAM FOR DISADVANTAGED CHILDREN: ‘Tripp’s Christmas Village’ defies all odds See BLOOD DRIVE pg. 22 Santa Mark Norman (center) holds a sign in honor of his best friend Tripp Wright, who was the “driving force” behind the very first Elks Christmas party for children. (L-R) Elf (Tripp’s wife, Maggie Biedekapp), Grinch (Joe Herman), Mrs. Claus (Carol Norman) and Elf (Wally Ostrowski). Merry Christmas! Please note the following office closures for the Winter Texan Times Closed Friday, December 23 through Monday, December 26 for Christmas Open 9 AM – 5 PM, Tuesday, December 27 through Thursday December 29. Closed Friday, December 30 through Monday, January 2 for NewYear. Open 9 AM – 5 PM, Tuesday, January 3 through Friday January 6.
DECEMBER 21, 2022 www.wintertexantimes.com 2 WINTER TEXAN TIMES 3201 E. EXP. 83 • DONNA, TX 78537 (956) 464-3378 of Donna ClaytonHomes Doug Fowler www.claytonhomesdonna.com • Clayton Exclusive Energy Smart Package • Programmable Thermostat • Entertainment Unit • Utility Room • Dining Room • Farmhouse Kitchen Sink w/Spring Loaded Faucet • 42″ Cabinet System • 18Cu Ft. Frost Free Refrigerator • Separate 72″ Deck Tub and 48″ Shower • Double Sinks in Bath Tired of living in that old mobile home? Need more room? Or is that old home falling down around you? What if we took the old home in on trade? We can take your trade and use it towards the down payment of your new home, even if you still owe a balance. LET US SHOW YOU WHAT YOUR TRADE CAN DO FOR YOU AT CLAYTON HOMES OF DONNA! CLAYTON HOMES OF DONNA CAN TAKE YOUR TRADE COME IN TODAY TO TOUR THE FARMHOUSE Lic. # rbi3356 Winter Texan Times: Looking back 35 years Winter Texans celebrate the holidays Over the years we have had the pleasure to share how our readers celebrate the holidays. We have so much to do in the Valley during the holidays, giving you plenty of options to choose from. Winter Texans love celebrating with others. You love to have get-togethers. You love to have parties. You love to have dinners. And you love to go places together. During the holidays, various Valley cities have activities they invite the community to. We have been able to showcase these activities throughout the years and share pictures of Winter Texans enjoying these activities. While activities abound, Valley parks are also full of their own activities. Valley parks hold parades, dinners, happy hours, dances, and more. Some parks have Christmas decoration contests and cookie exchanges. Other parks gather and share presents with games like White Elephant or rolling the die to see which way the gift goes. No matter where you look, there is always something to bring a smile to your face during the holiday. And during these functions, there are parks that gather gifts for their community. Gifts gathered can be so many different things. Parks have gathered socks, toys, coats, canned food, and other necessary items their community might need during the holiday season. We have featured many of these Christmas giving functions over the years. Along with the various activities in parks and cities, museums and art galleries also have their own activities. Most museums throughout the Valley host Christmas Tree Forests during the month of December. These trees are decorated by community members and usually decorated with a theme in mind. Some parks also have a festival of trees, like Golf View Estates did this year. Then you have the Zoo that does a big light display. We hope you are enjoying this holiday season as we all look to the new year. We hope you have been able to find some joy, laughter with friends, and some good food and treats. Photo by Kathy Olivarez Courtesy Photo
3 WINTER TEXAN TIMES www.wintertexantimes.com DECEMBER 21, 2022 WE TRADES WE PAY CASH FOR RVS DONNA • 956-464-4403 655 Ron Hoover Drive NEW BIGGER STORE LARGEST SELECTION • OVER 12 ACRES OF RVS • OVER 1000 TO CHOOSE FROM Utility And Cargo Trailers No Credit Needed Newly Expanded Body Shop • Mobile Service • 23 Service Bays Rv Parts & Hardware Store The Only McAllen Harlingen Ron Hoover Equipment Ron Hoover RV & Marine Center e e e s d - t - . - - e , . a s e n h d
DECEMBER 21, 2022 www.wintertexantimes.com 4 WINTER TEXAN TIMES 3M Retirees and Friends Welcome 3M Retirees and Friends will meet on Wednesday, December 21 at 10:30 a.m. at Victoria Palms Restaurant in Donna. Call Louise at (612) 916-9236 or Hartley at (956) 289-8261 for information. (This will be held on the third Wednesday through March). Alcoa Retirees Meeting The Alcoa Retirees Meeting will be held at 12 p.m. at Mr. Gatti’s on 2nd St., on Wednesday, January 11. The meeting will be held on the second Wednesday of each month through April. For more information, contact Gerry Hueser at (563) 340-3132. 3M Retirees and Friends Welcome 3M Retirees and Friends will meet on Wednesday, January 18 at 10:30 a.m. at Victoria Palms Restaurant in Donna. Call Louise at (612) 916-9236 or Hartley at (956) 2898261 for information. (This will be held on the thirdWednesday through March). Annual Fayette County, IA Reunion Fayette County, Iowa residents will meet Thursday, January 19 at Mr. Gatti’s, 4100 N. 2nd St., McAllen, at 11 a.m. For more information, call Violet (319) 230-2746. Model Rail Roading & Railroaders Model Rail Roading & Railroaders have started getting together. Anyone interested in joining the group can join them Monday through Friday at the Hidalgo Pumphouse. Call Red at (313) 532-8549 for more information. RGVWoodcarvers The Rio Grande Valley Woodcarvers have begun their seasonal meetings. The woodcarvers are meeting at the Nomad Shrine Club, 1044 W. Nolana Blvd., in Pharr. The Carvers meet weekly on Thursdays from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. through March. Everyone is welcome to come and visit and join the club. After a third visit, you will be asked to become a member with annual dues. More information can be found online at www.rgvwoodcarvers.org. Get ready to build/carve for the Woodcarvers Show in January. Senior Ambassadors The Senior Ambassadors is looking for singers to join their chorus. Senior Ambassadors is composed of men from the Valley and Winter Texan community. They perform choral music from sacred and semi classical, to pop and country. Practice sessions are held each Friday from 1 to 3 p.m. at Bentsen Grove Resort (1645 S. Bentsen Rd.) in Mission. They perform 10 to 12 times each season at various venues in the RGV. For more information, call Paul Hunter (956) 310-9515. Reunions are a great time to catch up with friends, old and new. Here we will feature reunions and meetings that are happening throughout the Valley. We hope that if you are having such a meeting, you will send the information to us so we can help you spread the word. If you have a great photo from your reunion or meeting, we would love to see that too. We love seeing photos of Red Hatter groups and others as they gather at local restaurants to catch up and share what’s new. You can send your information to news@wintertexantimes.com. Mission West Resort holds Holiday Food Drive The holiday season is that time of year when we all like to go above and beyond to help our neighbors in need. When Pastor Mark McDonald and his wife Stacy of Christian Resort Ministries and Mission West Church, which is located inside of beautiful Mission West Resort RV Park in Palmview, spearheaded and kicked off the 2022 Holiday Food Drive to benefit the Food Bank RGV they quickly found out just how true that is. As soon as they released word that the food drive was underway on November 13th food began stacking up on the designated table in the park’s large hall. As the days passed more and more food appeared and generous financial gifts were collected. Residents throughout the park rallied together to help provide a delicious variety of foods for individuals and families in need this holiday season. It seems God knew exactly the perfect amount of food that needed to be collected at Mission West because by the time the food drive came to an end on December 11th so much food had been collected that Pastor Marks car was completely filled to capacity. Most of the folks at Mission West may be Winter Texans but with each good cause that is put before them they keep proving that they have BIG Texas sized hearts. The community is invited to join this great group of people at their weekly non-denominational church service on Sundays at 10 a.m. located in the large hall at 511 E Loop 374 Palmview. For more information you can contact Pastor Mark at mrmcdonald41@yahoo.com. Courtesy Photo
5 WINTER TEXAN TIMES www.wintertexantimes.com DECEMBER 21, 2022 draw, at least for the guys, is remote car racing on the Alamo Rec-Veh Park track. Sharon also noted how friendly are the people of the Valley. The Edmonds and Sherrills, both now from Topeka, mentioned they had reconnected for a second time at a Christian Motorcycle Club gathering a few years back. That was some 40 plus years after first knowing each other in Wichita. During the long separation the Sherrills lived in Colorado for 30 years. The couples, who were attending their first Alamo Christmas event, really enjoyed it, with Sharon calling it “one of the best parades.” Those in Kansas are not all that large and don’t have all the lights like what they saw on Friday evening. “It was the neatest parade,” Bill added. Sharon, who said she enjoyed the kids taking part, thought it was perfect that after all the fun and celeAlamo lights up downtown for Christmas By Herb Moering Hundreds of residents along with Winter Texans turned out on a perfect night, Friday, December 9, for Alamo’s annual Christmas parade and tree lighting plus stage entertainment. Bill and Jean Snyder, from Carroll, Iowa said “this parade rocked.” “It was very good,” Jean said. “I loved the (PSJA High School Memorial) band and cheerleaders.” The couple, who were attending their third or fourth parade and ceremony, have been coming down to the Valley for 12 years and currently stay at Winter Ranch RV Resort in Alamo. Their main pleasure is the sunshine, quite a difference from an Iowa winter Bill indicated. The weather is also the big draw for Kansas friends Bill and Betty Edmonds and Rod and Sharon Sherrill. They have spent six seasons in the “Valley, with each year a longer stay that began with a month and now is up to five months.” The other See PARADE pg. 21 e d e o d t e o s t h m e t y e n A volcano was part of the Van Guard Mozart school float with a luau ukulele Santa that took first place among the entries in the Alamo parade. Photo by Herb Moering Bill and Jean Snyder, from Winter Ranch RV Park, were enjoying their third or fourth Alamo Christmas event. Photo by Herb Moering
DECEMBER 21, 2022 www.wintertexantimes.com 6 WINTER TEXAN TIMES • Lower Back Pain • Foot/Heel Pain • Muscle Weakness • Dizziness, Vertigo Are You Experiencing: We Have A Genuine Commitment To Your Health Dr. Frank Garza CEO, PT, DPT Dr. Amy Garza COO, PT, DPT, MTC, NPCP Dr. Laura Saenz, PT, DPT Dr. Jonathon Martinez PT, DPT Dr. Matthew Garza, PT, DPT LIMITED SPOTS AVAILABLE! 5413 N. 23RD ST. McAllen, TX 78504 SCHEDULE YOUR APPOINTMENT TODAY! (956) 994-8880 Ruben Alvarado, PTA Joseph Ruiz, PTA Jaqueline Ramirez, PTA • Total Hip Replacement • Total Knee Replacement • Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) • Pain Management • Shoulder Pain • Neck Pain • Post Surgical Procedures • Chronic Pains • Balance and Fall Prevention • Traumatic Brain Injury 1810 E. 8TH ST. Weslaco, TX 78596 EVENTS CALENDAR December 1-30 – Christmas Extravaganza Christmas Tree Exhibit is open at Harlingen Arts and Heritage Museum. Approximately 40 Christmas trees and decorations are displayed inside the galleries, outside courtyards and museum buildings. The museum is located at 2425 Boxwood St. Call (956) 216-4901 for more information. December 1-31 – Christmas Around the World at the Weslaco Museum. The exhibit in the art gallery is a Christmas tree forest representing 50 countries. Local businesses, organizations, and citizens have sponsored the trees and decorated them with trinkets showing the country’s culture, traditions, and other interesting ways they celebrate the holidays. The museum is located at 500 S. Texas Blvd. Call (956) 968-9142 for hours and more information. Now-January 1, 2023 – The Holiday Village in Brownsville will be on display at Dean Porter Park. It will be lit daily from 6 to 10 p.m. Entertainment will be held as well nearly every evening. For a full schedule of events visit holidayvillagebrownsville.com. An Elf on the Shelf contest is also being held. Find Fritter the Elf and post on your Facebook or Instagram tagging Holiday Village Brownsville to be entered to win prizes. More information can be found on their website. Now – January 8, 2023 – The Museum of South Texas History will feature the Bishop Emeritus Raymundo Pena Nativity Scene Collection displaying 120 nativity scenes. MOSTH is located in downtown Edinburg at 200 North Closner Blvd. Call (956) 383-6911 For more information. December 22 – Broadway McAllen presents Cirque Dreams Holidaze at the McAllen Performing Arts Center. You can order tickets, and season tickets, at LiveinMcAllen.com. For more information visit the website or call (956) 450-1929. Seven Oaks celebrates Christmas By Henry Miller Apparently, grandma did get run over by reindeer. She ended up at the Seven Oaks Resort Illuminated Golf Cart Parade over the weekend, still sprawled on the ground with her walker cast aside, and other evidence strewn atop a trailer pulled by a golf cart. Yeah, that last part wasn’t in the song – just at Seven Oaks. The annual Christmas festivities have been in full swing at the park and activity director Peter Loring said there’s a sense of more happiness and joy celebrating this year now that the fear – maybe not the threat – of COVID-19 and the flu have subsided. “You can tell that people are much happier – sure there’s still stuff hanging over our shoulders about COVID or the flu, but nobody seems particularly alarmed anymore. One guy just got back here during the middle of last week and said, ‘Now I really feel at home – I’m having my coffee and doughnuts.’ “People are happy, even more so when they see what’s been done to upgrade the appearance of the park.” The golf cart parade was just one of several Christmas celebrations, with more to come this week including a Saturday Happy Hour from 3:30 p.m. to 5 p.m. and a Sunday Christmas dinner – with the largest number of people signed up for the meal that Loring can remember, already with more than 130. Golf Carts rode through the streets with snow, a seemingly endless supply of lights, gifts, elves and, of course, Santa. Following the parade, residents enjoyed the lighting of the manger where they gathered to sing Christmas carols. After that, they gathered indoors to enjoy a hot chocolate bar – with cookies, marshmallows, sprinkles and more. “It was the best show we’ve had,” Loring said. “People really enjoyed it.” The park then threw a gift exchange Christmas party and watched a recording from 2017 when residents created a 12 Days of Christmas skit. “We played a game where the presents kept moving left, right and all over the place being sent around the tables,” Loring said. “Finally, everyone opened them, and we had some snacks and people brought their own drinks.” Loring, from the upper Atlantic region – Vermont, Maine and thereabouts – said that he wasn’t sure what the turnout would be for the Christmas celebration and was a bit nervous. However, more than 100 in attendance signified that joy had overflowed throughout the park. Loring said attendance at the park is growing (despite the loss of grandma). “We’re definitely getting more full than it’s been for the past three years,” he said. “Heard there are a lot of people coming in and others talking about moving in next year too. It’s definitely encouraging.” Saturday’s Christmas Eve Happy Hour, followed by the park’s Christmas dinner on Sunday – with turkey, ham stuffing (or dressing, depending on where one is from), mashed potatoes, gravy and rolls will be provided by the park. Everyone else signs up to bring a dish to fill in any blank spots. Just don’t expect to see grandma. We all know what happened there. Courtesy Photo
7 WINTER TEXAN TIMES www.wintertexantimes.com DECEMBER 21, 2022 Call today to schedule a free consultation and let us show you how professionally designed marketing materials with clear and consistent messaging can elevate your brand. You Only Get One Chance To Make A First Impression Make It Count With Promos & Prints On Your Side 500 FREE Business Cards With Any Order of $100 or More Offer Valid Through Dec 31, 2023. May not be combined with any other offer or discount. See rep for full details. Sales@promosandprints.com (956) 580-7800 1217 N Conway Ave, Mission, TX A Division of Nexus Publishing LLC d d , d d r s y e a r y , g . Magic awaits you in Hidalgo Celebrating their 31st Annual Hidalgo Festival of Lights, Tales of Illumination, the City of Hidalgo brings you a two-mile drive-through illuminated trail of lights. The trail includes bigger than life displays for everyone. Enjoy a magical evening in the warmth of your vehicle as you drive through large, animated displays while listening to holiday music on your car radio. You might also enjoy the Illuminated Trail on the Santa Express Narrated Train Tour. After your magical journey through the lights, you can stop at Santa’s Village located in front of the arena. Enjoy the beautiful Christmas Maze, Christmas performances, visit Santa, the artisan Christmas market and carnival rides. The event is open Monday through Thursday from 6 to 10 p.m. and Friday through Sunday from 6 to 11 p.m. It will be closed on December 24th and 31st. It is held at the Payne Arena at 2600 N. 10th St. in Hidalgo. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit hidalgofestivaloflights.com. Photo by Anastasia Brunson La Hacienda Estates gives toys to community Sunday, December 18th, La Hacienda Estates in Alamo had their Christmas party. Those attending brought a toy for the Alamo Police Department Toy Drive. Several gift cards were also donated. Everyone enjoyed the party and felt good about giving back to the community. Pictured with the toys are Santa (Karri Bjerke), Party Director Dell Engrisch, and helper Marge Morris, all from Minnesota.
DECEMBER 21, 2022 www.wintertexantimes.com 8 WINTER TEXAN TIMES www.ontheriver.net • 214 E. Chimney Rd • Mission, TX Come Try Our TEXAS Size Pork Tenderloin Wed 11am-8pm Thurs 11am-8pm Fri 11am-8pm Sat 11am-8pm Sun 11am-8pm OPEN NOW HIRING All Positions! 1 Hour River Tours Wed 1:00pm Thurs 1:00pm Fri 1:00pm Sat 1:00pm Relax Outside By The Rio Grande River • • • • • • • • • Seniors - $12 Adults - $14 Child - $10 SINCE 1982 Through Our Doors & Hearts Pass Some of the Finest People Our Customers, Our Friends, Our Family. Thank You!! Johnny & Jennifer Hart (956) 581-1033 Riverside In-MissionTx Cash Only Price Incl. Tax Riverside Event Center Covered Cushion Seating Enclosed Windows & Heating RIVERSIDE DREAMER River Tours Call (956) 581-4477 2HourRiverToursStart inJanuary Reservations Suggested Additional Tours Added As Needed Private Tours Available LargeGroupsWELCOME! Jan. 1 Steven May & The Southern Knights Jan. 8 Renaissance Rockers Sundays 1:30-5:30pm Live Music Closed Sunday Christmas Day Happy Holiday To All! Entertainment Pre-New Year’s Dance Bluegrass Jam Cowboy Church Goldwing Express • $7 Fri. Jan. 13 • 9-10am Breakfast • 7:30-8:30am • $7 Howlers • $8 Fri. Dec. 30 • 7-10pm Tuesdays • 1:30-3:30pm Redneck Revival • $7 Sun. Jan. 8 • 7pm 1201 N. Main Street La Feria, TX 956-797-1851 Cynthia Cavazos - Activity Director Kenwood Rv Resort . Enjoy Life. Enjoy it here. Shows & Sales Free Admission Jan. 2, 8am-12pm • Woodcarver’s 1900 S. Bridge Ave., Weslaco, TX 78596 Contact: Susan 405-812-4401 Playground For Retirees Concessions open, BYOB Dec. 31, 8pm-12am • Sweetwater • $15 Advance Tickets Only (210-363-5330) Jan. 6, 2023, 7-10pm • Rustic Rose • $8 Concessions open Jan. 15, 7-9pm • Ron & Jan Easter • $7 Pass The Hat Jan. 13, 3-5pm • Regan James Happy Hour Dances Entertainment EDITOR’S NOTE: Items for the Parks Calendar must be open to the public activities in the parks only and must be submitted by park owners, managers or activity directors. Listings must come from the park and are to be submitted on the Winter Texan Times Parks Calendar Submission Form. Request this form from the Winter Texan Times office. Multiple activities may be submitted on the park’s letterhead, provided the same information is provided in the format of the Submission Form. We do not accept listings for reviews, workshops, lessons or dance classes. Submission deadline is Friday noon, the week prior to the publication date. Send to: Winter Texan Times, 1217 N. Conway Ave., Mission, Texas 78572 or email to parkscal@wintertexantimes. com or fax to 956-580-7898. Wednesday, December 21 Breakfast - Eldorado Acres RV Park, Palmview, 6:30-8:30am. Homemade Cake Donuts - Bentsen Grove Resort, Palmview, 7-8:30am, Call to preorder. Dominos - AmeriCana RV Park, Palmview, 10am. Improver Line Dance - Casa del Valle Resort Park, Alamo, 10am. Lunch/Dinner - Llano Grande Lake Park Resort and Country Club, Mercedes, 11:30am-7pm, Menu available at Cafe Grande, meal price varies. Burger Fry - Chimney Park, Mission, 11:30am, $6pp. Open Jam follows at 1:00 pm, all jammers and audience are welcome! 4224 S. Conway Ave. Jam Session Lunch - Bit-O-Heaven RV Park, Donna, Noon, Menu and price varies. Music Jam - Sunshine RV Resort, Harlingen, 12:30-2:30pm, Gate is open, lunch is available for purchase 11:30 am - 2:00 pm. Musicians and listeners welcome! Rec Hall, 1900 Grace Ave. Jam Session - Bit-O-Heaven RV Park, Donna, 1-3pm, Come and play, sing or just listen. All welcome. BYOB. Big Band Jam - Valley View Estates, Mission, 1-3pm, Everyone is invited to come and enjoy the music. To play in the band is by invitation only. 2100 Vernon 319-521-6095. Acoustic Jam - Park Place Estates, Harlingen, 1:30-3:30pm, Setups available. Everyone welcome. Happy Hour - Southern Comfort Resort, Weslaco, 3pm, Curt James. Happy Hour - Sleepy Valley Ranch Resort, Mission, 4-6pm, Rotating schedule of live entertainment, pass the hat. Handmade pizza available from 5-7. Various food items available from 5-6. BS Bar Open - Llano Grande Lake Park Resort and Country Club, Mercedes, 4-9pm, Serving beer, wine, soft drinks. Happy Hour - AmeriCana RV Park, Palmview, 4-6pm. Swing Dancing Lessons - Park Place Estates, Harlingen, 4-5:30pm, Donations accepts, no partner necessary. Supper - Big Valley Trailer Park, Donna, 4:30-6pm, Serving all you care to eat pancakes, sausage gravy & biscuits, sausage patties, scrambled eggs, applesauce, and coffee. $7pp. Happy Hour - Llano Grande Lake Park Resort and Country Club, Mercedes, 5-7pm, The Lockharts, pass the hat. Event Center. Evening Resident Meal - Alamo Rec-Veh Park, 5pm, $7pp. Meal - Pleasant Valley Resort, Mission, 5-6pm. Music/Dance - Pleasant Valley Resort, Mission, 6-8pm, Richard. Christmas Dance - Alamo Palms MH & RV Park, 6:30pm, Pre Rounds 6:30pm, Squares 7-9pm. Ron & Jan Betzelberger, $5pp. Bring snacks to share. Tampico Hall. Hearing enhancement available. Subject to change without notice. Rock & Roll Jam - Mission Bell Resort, Mission, 7-9pm, Free. Best Rock & Roll Jam in the RGV. Entertainment - Bit-O-Heaven RV Park, Donna, 7pm, Brenda Coin, singer/variety, $9pp. Soda, water, popcorn, snacks for sale, free ice/cups, ice cream For more information, photos and tour schedules visit Wintertainers TM at www.wintertexantimes.com www.wintertexantimes.com tainers Winter TM CALENDAR PARKS
9 WINTER TEXAN TIMES www.wintertexantimes.com DECEMBER 21, 2022 Come by and try our delicious and famous charbroiled burgers. ALL DINNERS • 4:30 - 5:30pm Every Monday Charbroiled Burgers Burgers & Fries • $7.00 Cheeseburger & Fries • $8.00 JAM SESSIONS FORYOUR ENTERTAINMENT 956-585-5551 511 E Loop 374, Palmview, TX 78572 RV PARK BACK BY DEMAND Every Monday • 6pm Country • Bluegrass Everyone Welcome! Burgers & Jams Starting Jan. 2nd BIT O HEAVEN RV & MOBILE HOME RESORT 1051W Bus Hwy 83 • Donna,TX 78537 SUSANTHOMAS, ACTIVITY DIRECTOR 603-396-2786 FRIDAYS • DANCES • 7-10PM Dec 23 • Sweetwater • $8pp Soda, water, popcorn, and snacks for sale, free ice/cups, 50/50 door prizes. TUESDAYS • HAPPYHOUR • 3-5PM PASS THE HAT Dec 27 • The Hitman-Tim Dirth Jan 3 • Diego • 3:30-5pm Soda, water, popcorn, and snacks for sale, free ice/cups, BYOB, 50/50 door prizes. WEDNESDAYS Jam Lunch • 12pm Menu and price varies Jam Session • 1-3pm All welcome, BYOB SHOW 7 PM • Dec 21 • Brenda Coin • $9 BYOB, snacks SUNDAYS • KARAOKE • 5PM THURSDAYS • SOUPSUPPER • 4:30PM $4 All You Can Eat • Dessert for sale Bring your own table service & beverage 1048 N. Alamo Rd. • Alamo, TX 78516 • Office: 956-783-5008 NEW YEARS DANCE Texas Wheels • Sat. Dec. 31 • Tickets on sale now • $20 COMING IN JANUARY The Cruisers | Gatos Locos | Nu Blu SATURDAY DANCES Texas Wheels • Jan 7, 7 - 10 pm • $8 LINE, ROUND, & SQUARE DANCES Mon., 10 am • Beginners Line Dance Tues., 10 am - Noon • Round Dance Wed., 10 am • Improver Line Dance Thurs., 10 am • Line Dance Boot Camp Fri., 10 am - Noon • Square Dance With Joel Saltel ENTERTAINMENT Fri. Dec. 30, 2 - 4 pm Curt James • Pass the hat Sun. Jan. 8, 6 - 9 pm • Nu Blu • $8 CHURCH SERVICE Goldwing Express Cowboy Church Sun. Jan. 1, 9 am PICKLEBALL MIXER Thursdays • 9 am - Noon • $2 COUNTRY JAM Tuesdays • 7 - 9 pm Maude Squad is back Jammers by Invitation Only bars for sale. Dance - Tip O’ Texas RV Resort, Pharr, 7-10pm, Steven May & Southern Knights, $7pp. Entertainment - McAllen Mobile Park, 7pm, Rusty Rierson, $8pp. Thursday, December 22 Breakfast - Eldorado Acres RV Park, Palmview, 6:30-8:30am. Breakfast - Lamplighter Park, Palmview, 7:30-9am, Biscuits & gravy. Bluegrass Jam - Lamplighter Park, Palmview, 9am. All You Can Eat Pancakes - The Grove Subdivision, San Juan, 9-11am, Pancakes, eggs, sausage, waffles, and endless cups of coffee. Bring your own table service. Hwy 83 & Stewart Rd., 605 E. 7th St. Pickleball Mixer - Casa del Valle Resort Park, Alamo, 9am-Noon, $2. Country Jam - El Valle Del Sol, Mission, 10am-Noon, Free coffee. Line Dance Boot Camp - Casa del Valle Resort Park, Alamo, 10am. Public Meal Country Jam Lunch - Mission Bell Resort, Mission, 11:30am1pm, Full meal available prior to our Country Jam which follows at 1pm. Lunch/Dinner - Llano Grande Lake Park Resort and Country Club, Mercedes, 11:30am-7pm, Menu available at Cafe Grande, meal price varies. Lunch & Jam - Siesta Retirement Village Park, Weslaco, Noon, $8pp. Rock & Roll Jam - Bentsen Grove Resort, Palmview, 12:30pm. Country Jam - Mission Bell Resort, Mission, 1-3pm, Free. Open to public and jammers. Lunch available at 11:30. 50/50. Jam Session - Dixieland MH Park, Harlingen, 1-3pm, Free admission. Bible Study - AmeriCana RV Park, Palmview, 3:30pm. BS Bar Open - Llano Grande Lake Park Resort and Country Club, Mercedes, 4-9pm, Serving beer, wine, soft drinks. Dinner - Eldorado Acres RV Park, Palmview, 4-6pm, BBQ spare ribs, vegetable, rice, cheese cake. Soup Supper - Bit-O-Heaven RV Park, Donna, 4:30pm, All you can eat, $4pp. Dessert for sale. Bring your own table service and beverage. Loteria (Mexican Bingo) - Sleepy Valley Ranch Resort, Mission, 6-8pm. Acoustic Jam - Palm Gardens, Harlingen, 6-8pm, Fiesta Hall, free admission. 50/50 drawing and refreshments by donation. 3401 W. Bus. 83. Game Nite - AmeriCana RV Park, Palmview, 6pm. Karaoke - Paradise Resort Estates, Pharr, 6:30-9pm, Soda and water available. Complimentary popcorn. Over 40,000 different songs available to sing. Big Band Jam - La Hacienda Estates, Alamo, 6:30-8:30pm, 309-337-8711. Dance - Mission Bell Resort, Mission, 7-10pm, Texas Wheels Band, $8pp. 50/50. Dinner available 6pm, BYOB. Advance tickets and table reservations call 956-585-4833 ext. 1062. Bingo - Enchanted Valley Ranch, Mission, 7-9pm. Dance - Alamo Rec-Veh Park, 7pm, Sweet Water, $8pp at door. Christmas Show - San Juan Gardens, 7-9pm, Rusty Rierson. Open to the public. Doors open at 6:30 pm. Friday, December 23 Breakfast - Eldorado Acres RV Park, Palmview, 6:30-8:30am. Square Dance with Joel Saltel - Casa del Valle Resort Park, Alamo, 10amNoon. Line Dancing - San Juan Gardens, 10am-Noon, Beginners at 9:30am. $3 fee. Lunch/Dinner - Llano Grande Lake Park Resort and Country Club, Mercedes, 11:30am-7pm, Menu available at Cafe Grande, meal price varies. Garza Produce - Pleasant Valley Resort, Mission, 11:30am, Outside Club House. Country Jam - Tropic Winds MH & RV Resort, Harlingen, 12:30-2:30pm. Country “Opry” Jam - McAllen Mobile Park, 1-3pm, Free, hosted by National Traditional Country Music Hall of Fame inductee Elaine Nelson. Great country music like Nashville USED to do! Listen, sing, clap your hands, tap your toes, smile a smile and remember when! Snacks and drinks. Life’s a song...sing it! Variety Jam - Bentsen Palm RV Park, Mission, 1-3pm, Come play along or just come to listen and visit. Clog Dancing - San Juan Gardens, 1-3pm, Beginners at 12:30. Come and learn to clog dance, it’s great exercise. For more information, photos and tour schedules visit Wintertainers TM at www.wintertexantimes.com www.wintertexantimes.com tainers Winter TM See PARKS pg. 10
DECEMBER 21, 2022 www.wintertexantimes.com 10 WINTER TEXAN TIMES ENTERTAINMENT • 7PM ROCK & ROLL JAM DANCES EVERY FRIDAY 7-10PM SINGLES ARE WELCOME Friday Dec 23 • Rewind • $10 Saturday Dec 31 • New Year’s Eve Dance 8:30pm to Midnight • Hot Rodz • $20 Party Favors & Door Prizes Every Thursday • 12:30pm - 2:30pm HOMEMADE CAKE DONUTS Dec 21 • Order Ahead (956) 585-0703 Plain, Chocolate, Or Blueberry With Choice Of Vanilla Or Cinnamon Glaze $1 Each, $5.50 for 6, $10 for 12 Wednesday Breakfasts each week, Donuts every other week • 7:30am - 9am ThursdayLunches-Burgers&More• 11am-12:30pm Monday Night Meals • 4:30pm - 6pm PAY AT DOOR UNLESS NOTED Jan 1 • Baker Family • $10 MEALS 956-585-0703 1645 S Bentsen Palm Drive • Palmview Paula McSpadden Activity Director ALL EVENTS OPEN TO THE PUBLIC Jan 10 • 1pm - 3pm ROCK CLUB & GLASS ADVENTURES OPEN HOUSE RV RESORT TEXAS TRAILS Division of Wilder’s Corporation DANCES • EVERY FRIDAY 7-10 PM $7 (Unless Noted) ENTERTAINMENT CRAFT SHOW Jan. 8, 3-5pm • The Baker Family • $9 Jan. 7, 8am-Noon Masks Recommended But Not Required For All Events 501 W. Owassa Rd • Pharr, Texas 78577 956-787-6538 FOR INFO/TICKETS Dec. 23 • Ron Moshier Santa & Mrs. Claus Here For Pictures Dec. 31 • Jealous Heart • $16 Door Prizes, 50/50, Finger Foods Call Today To Buy Your Tickets Jan. 6 • Route 66 CREDIT CARDS NOW ACCEPTED For more information call: 956-580-7800 email: ads@wintertexantimes.com Make sure your events are like... THIS!! HOW? Advertise in the Valley’s #1 Winter Texan Paper $3 fee. BS Bar Open - Llano Grande Lake Park Resort and Country Club, Mercedes, 4-9pm, Serving beer, wine, soft drinks. Fish Fry - Mission West RV Park, Palmview, 4:30-5:30pm, Fish, slaw, & french fries. Steak Nite - AmeriCana RV Park, Palmview, 5pm, RSVP required. Karaoke with Bobby Jack - Sleepy Valley Ranch Resort, Mission, 5:309pm, Karaoke following supper. Menu varies from week to week, $8pp. Fish fry, $9pp. Country Music Jam - Hidden Valley Ranch RV & MH Park, Mission, 5:30pm, All welcome. Jean Closson, 717-877-8375. Country Jam - Tradewinds RV Resort, Mission, 6-8pm, Free. Tradewinds Hall. Open to public and all jammers. 50/50. Dance - Bentsen Grove Resort, Palmview, 7pm, Rewind, $10pp. Friday Night Dance - Fun N Sun Resort, San Benito, 7pm, Texas Wheels, $8pp door. Christmas Dance - Casa del Sol, Donna, 7-10pm, Rick McEwen, $8pp. Dance - Bit-O-Heaven RV Park, Donna, 7-10pm, Sweetwater, country, $8pp. Ugly Christmas Sweater Theme. Soda, water, popcorn, snacks for sale, free ice/cups, 50/50 door prizes. Dance - Texas Trails RV Resort, Pharr, 7-10pm, Ron Moshier, $7pp. Christmas Show - Tropic Star RVResort, Pharr, 7pm, Rusty Rierson, $9pp. Doors open 6:15pm. Concessions available before show and at intermission. 1401 S. Cage Blvd., 956-787-5773. Dance - Valley View Estates, Mission, 7-10pm, Regan James. 2100 Vernon 319-521-6095. Country & Big Band Jam - Palm Shadows RV/MH Park, Donna, 7-9pm, Pizza & dogs available from 4:30-6:30. No outside beverages permitted. Musicians by invitation only. Dance - Victoria Palms Resort, Donna, 7-10pm, Diego & Edith, $8pp. Dance - Country Sunshine, Weslaco, 7-10pm, The Howlers, $8pp. Saturday, December 24 Breakfast - Eldorado Acres RV Park, Palmview, 7-9am. Saturday Morning Breakfast - El Valle Del Sol, Mission, 8-9:30am, Pancakes or sausage gravy or egg bake, $5pp. Free coffee. Coffee Clutch - AmeriCana RV Park, Palmview, 9am. Yahoo - Restful Valley Ranch, Mission, 10am. Country Jam Lunch - Green Gate Grove, Palmview, 11:10am-Noon, We will be serving lunches before the Country Jam. Lunch/Dinner - Llano Grande Lake Park Resort and Country Club, Mercedes, 11:30am-7pm, Menu available at Cafe Grande, meal price varies. Country Jam - Green Gate Grove, Palmview, 12:30pm, Everyone is invited to this jam to either play or listen to country music. Questions call 956-5408463. 2135 S. Bentsen Palm Dr. Entertainment - Southern Comfort Resort, Weslaco, 2pm, Razmataz, $8pp. BS Bar Open - Llano Grande Lake Park Resort and Country Club, Mercedes, 4-9pm, Serving beer, wine, soft drinks. Church Service Candlelight - Alamo Palms MH & RV Park, 5-10am, Overnight to 12/25. Tampico Hall. Caroling - AmeriCana RV Park, Palmview, 6pm. Christmas Candle Light Service - Alamo Rec-Veh Park, 6pm. Candle Light Service - Mission Bell Resort, Mission, 6pm, We invite all our friends to join us for our service and refreshments. Bingo - Pharr South Park, Pharr, 6:30-9:30pm, Snacks and refreshments available for purchase. No outside food or beverages. Dinner is served 5-6pm. Menu varies weekly and you must sign up prior at Pharr South. Christmas Eve Service - Siesta Retirement Village Park, Weslaco, 7pm, Free. Sunday, December 25 Worship Service - Restful Valley Ranch, Mission, 8:15am, Non-denominational. Church Services - Hidden Valley Ranch RV & MH Park, Mission, PARKS From pg. 9 For more information, photos and tour schedules visit Wintertainers TM at www.wintertexantimes.com www.wintertexantimes.com tainers Winter TM
11 WINTER TEXAN TIMES www.wintertexantimes.com DECEMBER 21, 2022 TicketsGoOnSale January2023 FEB. 15 • 1 - 4 PM Lunch Available 12 - 1 PM Mission Bell Resort 1711 E. Bus. 83 - Mission BringingYou SixGreat WintertainersTM SAVE THE DATE Valley Star AWARDSSHOW 11thAnnual F E B 15 2023 Alamo, 1-3pm, Lunch is served from 11:00 to 12:45. Bring your music and join us! Country Jam - The Grove Subdivision, San Juan, 1-3pm, Snacks can be purchased for a donation. 605 7th St. Craft Day - AmeriCana RV Park, Palmview, 1pm. Yahoo - Pleasant Valley Resort, Mission, 1pm, Rec Hall. Jam - Lakewood RV Resort, Harlingen, 1pm, Everyone welcome: Play, sing, or listen. Refreshment served. Blue Grass Jam - Kenwood RV Park, La Feria, 1:30-3:30pm. PH III-IV RD Dance/Workshop - Alamo Palms MH & RV Park, 2-4pm. Happy Hour - Bit-O-Heaven RV Park, Donna, 3-5pm, The Hitman, Tim Dirth, pass the hat. Soda, water, popcorn, snacks for sale, free ice/cups, 50/50 door prizes, BYOB. BS Bar Open - Llano Grande Lake Park Resort and Country Club, Mercedes, 4-9pm, Serving beer, wine, soft drinks. Karaoke - Llano Grande Lake Park Resort and Country Club, Mercedes, 5pm, Event Center. Penny Po*Ke*No - AmeriCana RV Park, Palmview, 6pm. Country Music Jam - Country Palms RV Park, San Juan, 6pm, 600 E. FM 495. Bingo - Restful Valley Ranch, Mission, 6:30pm. Bingo - Paradise Resort Estates, Pharr, 7-9:30pm, Doors open at 6pm. Snack bar including hot dogs is available. Please bring singles to pay for your cards. Jam - Casa del Valle Resort Park, Alamo, 7-9pm. Wednesday, December 28 Breakfast - Eldorado Acres RV Park, Palmview, 6:30-8:30am. Breakfast - Bentsen Grove Resort, Palmview, 7:30-9am, Biscuits & gravy or croissant sandwich. Dominos - AmeriCana RV Park, Palmview, 10am. Improver Line Dance - Casa del Valle Resort Park, Alamo, 10am. Lunch/Dinner - Llano Grande Lake Park Resort and Country Club, Mercedes, 11:30am-7pm, Menu available at Cafe Grande, meal price varies. Lunch/Jam - Alamo Rec-Veh Park, 11:30am-1:30pm, Esquires. Burger Fry - Chimney Park, Mission, 11:30am, $6pp. Open Jam follows at 1:00 pm, all jammers and audience are welcome! 4224 S. Conway Ave. Jam Session Lunch - Bit-O-Heaven RV Park, Donna, Noon, Menu and price varies. Music Jam - Sunshine RV Resort, Harlingen, 12:30-2:30pm, Gate is open, lunch is available for purchase 11:30 am - 2:00 pm. Musicians and listeners welcome! Rec Hall, 1900 Grace Ave. 8:30am, Fellowship: 8:30am. Service: 9am. Church Service - San Juan Gardens, 8:40-9:40am, Non-denominational service. Everyone welcome. Church Service - Eastgate RV & MH Park, Harlingen, 9am, Chaplain David Squire, South Hall. Non-denominational service. Communion 1st Sunday of each month. For more information call 956-423-3137. Church Service - Fiesta Village, Mission, 9am, 205 S. Stewart Rd. Church Service - Alamo Palms MH & RV Park, 9-10am, Tampico Hall. Church Service - Casa del Valle Resort Park, Alamo, 9am. Worship Service - Pharr South Park, Pharr, 9:30-10:30am, All are welcome to our Interdenominational Service. Fellowship follows service. Church - Mission Bell Resort, Mission, 9:30am, With Chaplain Bill Wade, in Mission Bell hall. Everyone is welcome! 1711 E. Bus. Hwy. 83. Church - Mission West RV Park, Palmview, 10am, Pastor Mark McDonald. Church Services - Paradise Resort Estates, Pharr, 10-11am, Non-denominational services. Church Services - Sunshine RV Resort, Harlingen, 10-11am, Friendship Hall. Gate is open. 1900 Grace Ave. Non Denominational Church Service - River Ranch Resort, Rio Hondo, 1011am. Church Service - Pleasant Valley Resort, Mission, 10:30-11:30am, Traditional Lutheran Service, all welcome. Christmas Dinner - Alamo Rec-Veh Park, 1pm. Christmas Lunch - Pleasant Valley Resort, Mission, 1pm. Music - Pleasant Valley Resort, Mission, 3-5pm, Richard. Church Service - Bluebonnet RV Park, Mission, 4pm, Chaplains: Greg & Suzie York. Bluebonnet Hall, 3366 N. Bentsen Palm Dr. Karaoke - Bit-O-Heaven RV Park, Donna, 5pm, BYOB, snacks. Christmas Caroling - Bluebonnet RV Park, Mission, 6pm, Everyone is invited to join us! PH II, III, & IV RD Dance Party - Alamo Palms MH & RV Park, 6:308:30pm, Tampico Hall. Hearing enhancement available. Subject to change without notice. Monday, December 26 Breakfast - Eldorado Acres RV Park, Palmview, 6:30-8:30am. Lunch/Dinner - Llano Grande Lake Park Resort and Country Club, Mercedes, 11:30am-7pm, Menu available at Cafe Grande, meal price varies. Yahoo - Sleepy Valley Ranch Resort, Mission, 1-3pm. Country Jam - Countryside RV Park, Donna, 1-3pm, Open Jam with professional backup band. Serving lunch from 11:15 to 12:45. Join us for good food and fun. Karaoke - El Valle Del Sol, Mission, 1-3pm, BYOB. Jam Session - Alamo Palms MH & RV Park, 1-3pm, Main Hall. Rock & Roll Jam - Enchanted Valley Ranch, Mission, 1-3pm, Meal from 11:30-1pm. Country Jam - Winter Haven Park, Pharr, 1-3pm, All musicians and singers welcome. Lunch served first Monday of each month. 1015 W. Sam Houston. Absolute Beginner Line Dancing - Pharr South Park, Pharr, 1:30-2:20pm, Instructors - Pat Yoder and Noreen Friesen. Line dancing for those who never line danced or it has been a long time since dancing. Followed by Beginner to High Beginner class. Please bring a small donation for our instructor. $2 is suggested. PH II-III RD Dance/Workshop - Alamo Palms MH & RV Park, 2-4pm, Tampico Hall. Hearing enhancement available. Subject to change without notice. Country Jam - River Ranch Resort, Rio Hondo, 2-4pm, Light refreshment at the break, everyone welcome. Aim High Karaoke - Victoria Palms Resort, Donna, 3-6pm, Free. BS Bar Open - Llano Grande Lake Park Resort and Country Club, Mercedes, 4-9pm, Serving beer, wine, soft drinks. Dinner - Lamplighter Park, Palmview, 4pm, Beef stroganoff. Until gone. Charbroiled Hamburger Night - Mission West RV Park, Palmview, 4:305:30pm, Hamburgers, chicken, dessert, french fries, chips, drinks. Country Jam - Lamplighter Park, Palmview, 5:30-7:30pm. Jam Session - Mission West RV Park, Palmview, 6pm, Country, bluegrass. Everyone welcome! Tuesday, December 27 Breakfast - Eldorado Acres RV Park, Palmview, 6:30-8:30am. Blood Drive - Pleasant Valley Resort, Mission, 10am-1:30pm, Social Hall. Round Dance - Casa del Valle Resort Park, Alamo, 10am-Noon. Taco Tuesday - Sleepy Valley Ranch Resort, Mission, 11:30am-1pm, All you can eat tacos with all the toppings, homemade charro beans, $8pp. Lunch/Dinner - Llano Grande Lake Park Resort and Country Club, Mercedes, 11:30am-7pm, Menu available at Cafe Grande, meal price varies. Music Jam - Roadrunner RV Resort, See PARKS pg. 22
DECEMBER 21, 2022 www.wintertexantimes.com 12 WINTER TEXAN TIMES We Love Our Winter Texans! Thank you for making us your home away from home • Nightly, 7 Day Plus Rates Available • Fully Equipped Kitchens • Free Wi-Fi • Outdoor Pool • Small Pet Welcome (with fee) • Guest Laundry Service Walking Distance to the La PlazaMall and several restaurants. For Reservations 956-668-7829 www.mcallen-studio6.com 700 Savannah Ave. McAllen, TX Lock In Your Rates For This Winter - Now! Winter Texan 7 Day Plus Special! $327.67 Queen Bed • $375.97 2 Full Size Beds PLEASE MENTION AD FOR SPECIAL! SPECIAL! 7 Day Plus Food Bank in dire need Food Bank RGV is asking for the community’s help in supporting families and individuals in need this winter and into the new year. In response to the growing need for assistance in the community, the Food Bank RGV reports that its warehouse shelves are becoming bare. With 275 partner agencies across the Rio Grande Valley, the Food Bank RGV provides food and resources to those at risk of hunger. “As the need for food assistance continues to grow, we are seeing a strain on our resources. Monetary donations are crucial in helping us purchase the food needed to fill our shelves, as well as covering rising transportation costs,” said Libby A. Saenz, chief executive officer of the Food Bank RGV. “We are grateful for the support of our community and urge those who are able to give, to consider making a donation to our food bank.” Food Bank RGV is in dire need of donations to continue to support the community. The food bank is seeking donations of canned food and monetary donations to provide meals and resources to those who need it most. Every donation, no matter how small, makes a difference. The Food Bank RGV reports that every dollar helps provide up to five complete meals for an individual in need. To make a donation, please visit foodbankrgv.com or drop off canned goods at the food bank, located at 724 N. Cage Blvd. in Pharr. An employee of Food Bank RGV, Albert Marin, walks past empty racks in the food bank’s main warehouse. The food bank is seeing a faster rate of shelf-stable food being pulled off the racks to meet community needs. “Life in One Cubic Foot” open at IMAS The International Museum of Art & Science (IMAS) announces the temporary exhibition “Life in One Cubic Foot.” The exhibition follows the research of Smithsonian scientists and photographer David Liittschwager as they discover what a cubic foot of land or water—a biocube—reveals about the diversity of life on the planet. “Life in One Cubic Foot” will be on view through February 6, 2023. The exhibition is organized by the Smithsonian Institution Traveling Exhibition Service in collaboration with the Smithsonian’s National Museum of Natural History. A biocube—the tool at the heart of the exhibition—is a 1-by-1-by1-foot framed cube that organisms from the surrounding environment can enter and pass through. Biocubes featured in the exhibition were placed in environments across the globe to learn what forms of life, both known and unknown, could be found in the cube during a 24-hour period. In addition to exploring life through the exhibition, visitors are also invited to participate in citizen science and uncover the biodiversity in their backyard by creating and monitoring their own biocube. “Life in One Cubic Foot” explores life from exotic environments, like the coral reefs of French Polynesia and the alien mid-water ocean off the coast of California to the more familiar locales, like New York City’s Central Park. Hundreds of different organisms ranging in size from the head of a pin to the full size of the biocube are featured in the exhibition through collages of photographs, models, interactive elements and exhibition videos. Biocubes in the exhibition were not only used by scientists to explore what is already known about life on Earth but also to spotlight how much biodiversity remains for aspiring scientists to discover. Scientists estimate that there are more than one million species still unknown or unnamed by scientists. Visitors are invited to build their own biocube and contribute to citizen science by studying and sharing discoveries from their neighborhood habitats. Visitors can explore the National Museum of Natural History’s website (https://naturalhistory.si.edu/) to watch a video about biocubes and learn how to build, deploy and study their own biocube. They may also share their findings with the greater scientific community. IMAS is located at 1900 W. Nolana Ave. Their hours are Wednesday-Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday 1 to 5 p.m. A selection of creatures revealed through inventorying one cubic foot from Hallett Nature Sanctuary in Central Park, New York City. Courtesy Photo
13 WINTER TEXAN TIMES www.wintertexantimes.com DECEMBER 21, 2022 TACLA006249C •Extended Service Plans Available •Worry-free Installation •No Hassle Satisfaction Guarantee •We Service All Models 956-255-8900 ColairInc.com Proudly Serving the RGV for over 35 years! Breathe Easy with Colair Chase Bank Tower Dallas Ave. Fresno Ave. Pep Boys Exp. 83 S. 10th St. Chicago Ave. Civic Center N. BUENA VISTA OPTICAL That is the feeling you will have after you leave our optical. 521 S. 10th St., McAllen 631-3002 Designer Frames Available: • Oakley • DKNY • Versace • COACH • Ray-Ban • bebe • Michael Kors • Calvin Klein • LACOSTE & Many More We Accept Most Insurances Including: Medicare, Medicaid, VSP, Ambetter, EyeMed, Molina, Superior star plus, Spectera, Cigna Healthspring, Superior Vision buenavistaoptical.org • Eye Exam $35 / $25 with Eye Glasses Purchase • Contact Eye Exam $60 / $50 with Contact Lens Purchase • 1 Pair Single Vision - $40 • 1 Pair with Line Bi-focal - $60 • 1 Pair No-Line Progressive - $100 FREE TINT With Ad Looking forward to new year and new tours Another year is quickly coming to an end in just a few more days and our calendars will turn to 2023. It’s time to think of travel again. Sometimes I schedule myself on a tour just to see what changes have been made in a hotel along the highways. I really like to get out with my travelers and see the trip through their eyes. Right now there is only one more tour scheduled for the rest of this year and it is a good one, especially if you have never been on the tour or if you have visitors who want to visit the famous King Ranch – one of the largest ranches in the United States. Founded in 1853 by Captain Richard King, the King Ranch boasts almost 1,000 acres. You will learn all about the Ranch, the flora and fauna of the area as your guide introduces you to a very special part of the history of the Rio Grande Valley. The last trip of the year is scheduled for December 29, 2022. Don’t miss it. Texans would really like to brag that the King Ranch is the largest ranch in the world. Not true. Some of the largest ranches in the world are actually in Australia. Even so, the story of the King Ranch and how Captain King and his wife overcame many hardships is a fascinating story. All of the Go…with Jo! Tours weave the history of the area into the presentation given by your guide. So get your group together and lets go exploring as we learn more about the area. We are currently working toward adding a few new one day tours that should really be of interest. Most all of the one day tours include lunch in the cost of the tour. This means that the restaurant knows in advance the exact number and is prepared, meaning that you have more time to enjoy the tour. At this time of year it is always difficult to get contracts from the Mexico hotels. The peso does fluctuate in value which does give hotels some concern about giving out year long contracts. Watch for the all time favorites of San Miguel de Allende, the Monarch Butterfly and the Copper Canyon Tour. In the United States, the Big Bend, San Antonio Rodeo, Magnolia Market Place, will all be offered. Please, register early for these tours. Most all of the hotels want to receive a rooming list 30 days in advance. I know you want to see what will the weather be like on that tour date or what if I am not feeling well? If you truly have a legitimate reason to cancel, you will receive a refund. When you call at the last minute to register, you may find the tour sold out or already cancelled because of lack of participants. When that happened, both you and Go…With Jo! are disappointed. I look forward to hearing from you and seeing you on one of the tours. Please register early. Have a wonderful celebration this New Year. May we all be healthy and well – and perhaps a little prosperous in 2023. s p , d . Photo by Henry Miller
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