Winter Texan Times

Winter Texan TIMES Serving Winter Texans FromMission To South Padre Island Since 1987 Vol. 36, No. 21 © 2023 www.wintertexantimes.com Wednesday, March 8, 2023 INDEX Parks Calendar p 8 WintertainersTM p 8 Jammin’ in the RGV p 16 Reunions p 17 On the Road with Jo p 18 Events Calendar p 19 On The Lighter Side p 20 Taste of the Valley p 23 Business Guide p 25 Classifieds p 25 Coupon Index p 26 Rina’s Ramblings See RAMBLINGS pg. 18 Time sure is moving by … The season is almost over. It’s been a crazy and fun one so far. We are looking forward to the next few weeks and a couple more events that we will be attending, especially the Lady and The Gambler show on the 19th. Speaking of events, this past week we had the Winter Texan Fiesta put on by the Greater Mission Chamber of Commerce. If you didn’t get to attend, you missed some great entertainment. Performing were Bruce Boudreaux, Rick McEwen, Denim and Lace, and The Night Howlers. They were all great and attendees were clapping, hollering, dancing, and singing along. These are some entertainers to try to catch when you come back next year. We have our golf contest currently taking place. If you haven’t voted for your favorites, be sure you do before 4 p.m. on Wednesday, March 8. Also, next week will be our Take The Rio Grande Valley Livestock Showgrounds (RGVLS) in Mercedes are going to be full of animals, people, food vendors, and more as they open their doors this week. The RGVLS celebrates 84 years this year. The events start on March the 9th and run through March 19th. See RGVLS pg. 12 RGVLS has a full schedule of events Photo by Jim Brunson It’s starting to feel like spring, and for us, that means golf – even if you can play it nearly year-round in the South Texas climate. Each spring we ask our readers to vote for their favorite golf courses. The Valley has many courses to choose from, and Winter Texans seem to try to catch them all while visiting the Valley. This year, we wanted to delve into the history of our Valley golf courses. We hope you enjoy this bit of history and See GOLF pg. 14 Upper Valley contains some of the Valley’s oldest courses Tierra Del Sol Golf Course. Photo by Henry Miller

MARCH 8, 2023 www.wintertexantimes.com 2 WINTER TEXAN TIMES MOBILE HOME INSURANCE HIDALGO COUNTY We Also Insure PARK MODELS • TRAVEL TRAILERS MOTORHOMES • GOLF CARTS • “CASITAS” 5TH WHEELS • AUTOS • MOTORCYCLES Galvan Insurance Agency, Inc. 1101 East Business 83 Donna, TX 1 1/2 milesWest of Don-Wes Flea Market www.galvaninsuranceagency.com *Premium subject to carrier underwriting. Rate subject to change. *$271.00per year. Conditions Apply. As Low as Plan Covers: Fire, Lightning, Explosion, Smoke, Wind (Hurricane, Tornadoes), Hail, Riot & Civil Commotion, Land & Air Vehicles... Also Includes $100,000 Liability Coverage. Flood Coverage Available Call or Come See Us 956-464-2886 Tropic Star presents quilts to park Veterans By Herb Moering Another 24 armed services Veterans were honored Sunday, March 1 by quilters at Tropic Star RV and MH Resort in Pharr. The afternoon ceremony began with a flag presentation of the U.S. and service branch flags carried by park Veterans. Emcee Patty Hoerr offered a few comments after the Pledge of Allegiance, noting she had never been in the military, but that wouldn’t stop her from saying “thank you” for the Veterans’ service to the country. She reminded the large audience that those who served in any capacity “went where they were told to go.” Hoerr said it is good to present quilts to Veterans in their park and this last 24 added up to a total of 132 in the past four years. Among the Veterans honored was World War II soldier Benjamin (Bob) Corriveu, who at 95 is the oldest park Veteran. He served from 1945 until 1947 at the Panama Canal, and Waco and Camp Walters, Texas. Corrievu who also served in communications and the military police, had top secret clearance and drove officers around Camp Pendleton, California. As each Veteran’s name was called, he or she stepped forward and two of the committee women would unfold the quilt made for that individual. The others being honored were Patty Herold, U.S. Army Reserves 1981-2004; Gary Sink, Navy 19621966; David Tatum, Air Force 19711980 and Army National Guard 1981-82; Marilyn Tatum, Air Force 1974-1978; Marshal Parizo, Marines 1968-1974; Ray Galbreath, Air Force 1966-1970; Marion Palmer, Navy 1965-1970; Fred Kurszewski, Army National Guard 1967-1971; Paul (Duane) George, Army 19671970; Jerry Craven, Army 1963-1965; Greg Pooley, Navy 1966-1968; Bob Hoskins, Marines 1973-1976; Manville Ayers, Army 1956-1958; George Dodd, Air Force 1962-1966; Dennis Schmidt, Air Force 1959-1963; Glen Galles, Army 1964-1966; C.E. Morrison, Army 1968-1970; Craig Ericson, Army 1974-1976; David Anderson, Air Force 1957-1961; David Coffey, Army National Guard 1968-1975, and Maggie Jamieson, Navy 1974-1994. James Madill, Navy 1975-1979, was unable to be present. The quilt ceremony was coordinated by residents Hoerr, Diana South, Betty Menerey, and Harriet Roberts with help from Pam Straka, Mary Harty, and Shirley Atkinson. The project was introduced by Marty Wolfgang, who is no longer a park resident. She suggested the idea, sharing what the quilts had meant for her husband Denny’s Vietnam War buddies 50th reunion in Signal Mountain, Tennessee several years ago. The ladies from the Tropic Star sewing room greeted the idea favorably and have been running with it ever since. A group of women meet on Sunday afternoons during the winter season to quilt and sew while others have made them at home over the summer. Conclusion to the ceremony was the retiring of the colors and branch flags, which was followed by applause for the Tropic Star quilters. Another group of military Veterans living at Tropic Star RV and MH Park in Pharr received patriotic quilts honoring them at a ceremony Sunday, March 5. The Veterans are (seated from left) Marilyn Tatum, Bob Corriveau, Dennis Schmidt, Glen Galles, Gary Sink, Marshal Parizo, Paul Shipman, George Dodd, Maggie Jamieson, Fred Kurszewsi, (standing left) C.E. Morrison, David Coffey, Bob Hoskins, Duane George, Manny Ayers, Greg Pooley, Ray Galbreath, Marion Palmer, David Anderson, Craig Ericson, Patty Herold and Jerry Craven. Photo by Herb Moering

3 WINTER TEXAN TIMES www.wintertexantimes.com MARCH 8, 2023 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

MARCH 8, 2023 www.wintertexantimes.com 4 WINTER TEXAN TIMES THE LADY & THE GAMBLER “A NIGHTYOUWON’T SOON FORGET” TWO OF THE FINEST SINGERS THAT EVER STEPPED ON THE BIGGEST STAGE IN THE RIO GRANDE VALLEY... Tickets $15 Call (956) 790-8445 Llano Grande Resort Event Center “THE LADY” LESLIE BLASING MARCH 19th 7:00 Bonham’s Bears gives bears to local organizations Submitted by Maple Frye On March 6, Bonham’s Bears sponsored a teddy bear give away at the Green Bay South Clubhouse in La Feria. First responders and organizations that help children in crisis were invited to light refreshments and free teddy bears. We gave 450 teddy bears to eight organizations. A ninth organization, Loaves and Fishes, was dealing with health issues and asked to pick up their teddy bears later. During 2022, we also gave away 274 pet pillows to the Rio Grande Valley Humane Society under our Scraps for Scruffy Project. Bonham’s Bears is an all-volunteer organization based at Green Bay South, but we have volunteers from Park Place, Rio Valley Estates, and Citrus Village. Here are some of the organizations’ descriptions of how teddy bears and pet pillows help them. La Feria Fire and Police. It’s good to give children something to hang on to when they’re scared. We want to make a bad day better. The police carry the teddy bears in our cars and also have them to give at Christmas time. Family Crisis Center. We give all the teddy bears we receive. Children often go to shelters with nothing, so they get teddy bears for comfort. At our Repeat Performance store, located at 124 W. Jackson, Harlingen, you can drop off donations. Our clients get vouchers to get items free from the store. We operate shelters in Brownsville, McAllen, and Harlingen. When our shelters are full, we get help from Loaves and Fishes. Lately, we’ve had some severe cases and are working with children in shelters to “unlearn” bad behavior or deal with trauma. We have a Community Outreach Team that goes to schools and boys and girls clubs to teach them self-confidence and warn them about cyber dangers such as sexting. We try to be an advocate for the family, by getting restraining orders, getting medical care, and helping people transition to apartments by assisting with utility bills and a few months of rent. Harlingen Police. The teddy bears help form a connection between toys and the police. We use teddy bears to comfort children at accident scenes and we drop off the teddy bears and toys at the Family Crisis Center. We also use teddy bears in presentations. One homicide officer spoke of having to do death notifications to families. The children see strangers with guns and hear the news that a loved one will never return. They are scared and traumatized. We use teddy bears to create a positive outlook. Children’s Bereavement Center. The Children’s Bereavement Center is free. Besides the one in Harlingen, tonight is the grand opening of a 10,000 square foot center in McAllen. Trained counselors work with children long-term (up to 24 years old) and also support the whole family or caregiver. We put the teddy bears in our “Buddy Barn,” where children can pick a toy and take it home with them. Ronald McDonald House. We have merged with the Ronald McDonald House in Corpus Christi and are now Ronald McDonald House of Southwest Texas. We closed the external house in Harlingen but kept the Family Room in the Valley Baptist Medical Center and operate a larger Family Room in the Edinburg children’s hospital. The family can go to the Family Room and get coffee, snacks, and a chance to re-boot, then quickly and easily visit with the patient. We give the teddy bears on holidays, birthdays, and part of a “cheer up” basket. Cameron County Children’s Advocacy Center (CCCAC). The CCCAC carefully and professionally interviews abused children and shares the interviews with other professionals (police, social workers, legal workers, etc.) so the children don’t have to repeat their traumatic experience to multiple interested organizations. To show you how helpful the teddy bears are, one adult woman still treasures the teddy bear she got as a child. Monica’s House is named after Monica Castille, a five-year old, abused child who died from injuries. Maggie’s House is named after Maggie Whitman, a baby who did not survive her babysitter’s abuse. In Raymondville, a yet unnamed house will probably be named after an abused Raymondville boy. Humane Society. We are excited to get pet pillows and the animals love not lying on hard floors. We are the Rio Grande Valley Humane Society and take in pets from Harlingen and soon from Mission, because these two cities have contracts that fund the “no-kill” Humane Society. Brownsville, Cameron County, and Weslaco operate shelters, but they are not “no kill” shelters. We offer pet adoptions, low-cost monthly vaccinations, and services provided by a part-time veterinarian. Harlingen Fire. The Harlingen firefighters responded to an emergency at Green Bay South and did not have the chance to talk to us. We were fortunate that they were so near and so willing to help, demonstrating that they, indeed, are first responders. Finished handling the emergency, the firefighters returned and received their teddy bears. Harlingen Fire and Humane Society Harlingen Police and Bonham’s Bears Rachel Carter

5 WINTER TEXAN TIMES www.wintertexantimes.com MARCH 8, 2023 RIO GRANDE VALLEY LIVESTOCK SHOW & RODEO MARCH 9-19 IT’S time! RODEO TICKETS ONLY $5 FOR ALL SENIOR CITIZENS 55+, LAWENFORCEMENT&MILITARY. MUST SHOW DL, LAW ENFORCEMENT BADGE OR MILITARY ID AT THE GATE. $5Admission Discount Day Sunday, March 12 Scan here to purchase tickets! Let’s Shuffle! By Arleen Bier Let’s Shuffle! The 10th Annnual Shuffleboard Tournament at La Floresta was held February 18th. It was so much fun. We had 64 participants who competed throughout the day. The event was organized by Bill Hocken, with assistance from Jerry Mason and Wilf Trudeau and others. The Preliminary Round began at 9 a.m.; the Championship Round started at 1 p.m. with 32 players and 16 rounds. First Place went to JimWoods and Kevin Halvorson. First place winners were Jim Woods and Kevin Halvorson Following the Shuffleboard Tournament, we had an all-you-can-eat taco dinner. The dinner was organized by Pam and Kevin Halvorson (front) and Paula and Rickey Henderson (center), along with many others who pitched in to help with set-up, cooking and serving, and clean-up. We have the nicest people you will ever meet in our park.

MARCH 8, 2023 www.wintertexantimes.com 6 WINTER TEXAN TIMES 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 50 Acre RV Park Lazy Palms Ranch, it’s what life is all about. Where the sound of silence is still heard and where the country’s natural splendor has no bounds. Lazy Palms Ranch is the R.V. Ranch you’ll want to call home for a day, a week or for the season. ACTIVITIES: Shuffleboard • Horseshoes • Bocce Ball • Card Games • Live Entertainment Bake and Craft Sales • Pot Lucks • Dominoes • Poker • Pool Tables • Bingo www.lazypalmsranch.com manager@lazypalmsranch.com (956) 383-1020 FEATURES: Large Rv & Park Model Sites • Bird/Natural Life Year Round Game Room • Pool Tables • Walking Trails • Exercise Equipment Pet Friendly • Church Services on Sundays • Pool & Spa Stocked Fishing Pond 50+ Park Community 35100 Lazy Palm Dr. Edinburg, TX 78541 Come Check Us Out! Spacious Country Living At It’s Best! SPECIAL OFFER First Time Guests Pay For 2 Nights Get 3rd Night FREE! Best Rates In The Valley! Exp. 6/30/2023 Pickle juice, cookies and a warm welcome By Ruth Filz On Saturday, February 25th, the Henry Roberts Memorial 32nd Annual Jalapeno 100 bike ride took place in Harlingen. It is a fun ride benefiting the Harlingen Boys & Girls Club. For the last few years, the ride has seen over 500 riders from across the state and the country, as well as from Canada and Mexico. Palm Gardens RV Park in Harlingen has been involved with the ride since 2000 when three couples – Gerry & Pat Bradley, Buzz & Vonnie Jones, and Boyd & Marge Mallot – started sponsoring a rest stop for riders. The park has continued sponsoring a rest stop ever since. In 2009 Russ Manhard took over chairing the rest stop for our park. Through the years, riders and our rest stop volunteers have formed many friendships. Riders always comment on the great food and warm welcome they receive at the Palm Gardens rest stop. Who can blame them. The week before the race, residents are busy saving pickle juice and baking cookies to supplement the hot dogs, fruit, ice cream, water and other goodies at the stop. This is made possible through generous donations from park residents, park management, and local businesses. On Saturday, we were happy to provide food and a place to rest for approximately 300 riders. The park has won the award for the best rest top several times over the years. In addition, to having a rest stop, the park also has several riders who take part in the ride. Dale Aalderink has taken part in the ride for the past 14 years. This year his rider number was 86, which also happens to match his age. Dale rode 50 miles in this year’s event. Manhard & Crew, 2023 The grand champion entry in Alamo’s Texas Independence Day parade once again belonged to Trophy Gardens RV Park. The trophy was presented by Miss Alamo 2023 Melanie Nicolette Marez on behalf of the Alamo Chamber of Commerce, which hosted the event.

7 WINTER TEXAN TIMES www.wintertexantimes.com MARCH 8, 2023 Larry DeBuse Invitational Golf Tournament held Submitted By Darrell Roberts Larry and Susan DeBuse, formerly of Greengate Grove in Palmview, were honored at the Larry DeBuse Invitational Golf Tournament, held at Shary Golf Course on March 1. The DeBuse family has returned to their home in Bella Vista, AR, as Larry continues his fight against Parkinson’s Disease. Kathy Roberts and her team organized the event to raise funds for the Parkinson’s Foundation, Inc. and continues Larry’s annual golf outing. This year’s event featured a nine-hole, four-person scramble with a full slate of 12 teams. The event was capped off by a luncheon served by Las Donas and an award ceremony emceed by Jesse Hansen. Congratulations go to first place winners, the Carla Wilson Team, who shot three under par. Each player on the Wilson Team won an 18-hole pass to Shary Golf Course. This year’s event also exceeded our goal and raised over $5,000. Congratulations to the winning team and all other participants. Over the last two years the DeBuse Tournament has raised over $8,600 for the fight against Parkinson’s Disease. Bentsen Grove raises funds for Cinderella Pet Rescue Line Dancers at Bentsen Grove Resort recently held a charity marathon to benefit the Cinderella Pet Rescue in Palmview. Intermediate and advanced dancers took to the floor at 9 a.m. under the direction of Mary Lou Lane. They were quickly joined by beginning dancers and ultra beginning dancers taught by Mary Messerli and Jodee Taylor. Dancing continued throughout the morning. Park residents stopped in to witness the event and support the dancers with cash donations. Prior to the event, each dancer worked hard during the month of February to solicit donations from resort residents, family members and friends. True to Bentsen Grove’s reputation as generous and friendly, nearly $5,000 was raised. The Cinderella Pet rescue is a non-profit, no-kill shelter which rehabilitates and places unwanted pets out for adoption. Bentsen Grove’s donation was much appreciated as the shelter was operating at near capacity. Larry and Susan DeBuse Courtesy Photo

MARCH 8, 2023 www.wintertexantimes.com 8 WINTER TEXAN TIMES 214 E. Chimney Rd • Mission, TX (956) 581-1033 Come Try Our TEXAS Size Pork Tenderloin Tues 11am-8pm Wed 11am-8pm Thurs 11am-8pm Fri 11am-8pm Sat 11am-8pm Sun 11am-8pm OPEN • • • • • • Seniors - $12 • Adults - $14 Child - $10 Cash Only, Price Incl. Tax Covered Cushion Seating Enclosed Windows & Heating RIVERSIDE DREAMER River Tours Call (956) 581-4477 ReserveNowForCurrentWeekOnly Additional Tours Added As Needed Private Tours Available Riverside Event Center Sundays 1:30-5:30pm Live Music Mar. 19 & Apr. 2 Steven May & The Southern Knights Mar. 12 & 26 Renaissance Rockers Live Music Saturdays 1:00-5:00pm Mar. 11 & 25 • Jolly Huntsmen Mar. 18 • Robert Austin & Midnight Cowboy 1 Hour Tours (Down River To Dam) Tues 1:00pm Wed 1:00pm Thurs 1:00pm Fri 1:00pm Sat 1:00pm • • • • • 2 Hour Tours (Up River Only) Tues • 10:30am Wed • 10:30am Seniors - $22 • Adults - $26 Child - $18 Inside/Outside Seating Beautiful Patio!! Loyal Customers Friends & Family You’re Invited! To Our 40th Anniversary Party Monday, March 13th 3:00-8:00pm Drink Specials • Live Music BOOKING: 417-239-4248 “THE GAMBLER” SHOWS Mar. 8 • 7-9pm • Leisure Valley Ranch, Mission DANCES Mar. 10 • 7-9pm • Lakewood RV, Harlingen Mar. 14 • 3-6pm • Mustang Lounge, Weslaco Mar. 14 • 7-10pm • Paradise Park, Harlingen Mar. 15 • 7-10pm • Restful Valley, Mission Mar. 18 • 7-10pm • Split Rail, Mission Mar. 21 • 7-10pm • Victoria Palms, Donna 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 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, March 8 Breakfast - Eldorado Acres RV Park, Palmview, 6:30-8:30am. Breakfast - Bentsen Grove Resort, Palmview, 7:30-9am. Flea Market - Fiesta Village, Mission, 8am-Noon, Lunch will be served from 10:30am to noon. Craft Sale - Canyon Lake RV Resort, Mission, 8am-Noon, Lunch at 11am. Craft Sale - Alamo Palms MH & RV Park, 8am-Noon, Lunch served at 11:30. 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. Country Music Jam - Heritage Square, Mission, 1-3:30pm, Food is served from 11 to 12:30 before the Jam. Country Music Jam - Heritage Square, Mission, 1-3:30pm, Free admission. Food served before the Jam from 11 - 12:30 and after 4 - 5:30. Join us to play an instrument or sing or just to enjoy the music every Wednesday throughout the year. Acoustic Jam - Park Place Estates, Harlingen, 1:30-3:30pm, Setups available. Everyone welcome. Social Time - Siesta Retirement Village Park, Weslaco, 3-5pm, Rico Cantu, pass the hat. Open House - Magic Valley Park, Weslaco, 3-7pm, Come check out our brand new homes and the rest of our community filled with lots of great amenities and activities! Or contact us to make an appointment. We hope to see you there! www.magicvalleyrvresort. com 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. Swing Dancing Lessons - Park Place Estates, Harlingen, 4-5:30pm, Donations accepted. 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 - Enchanted Valley Ranch, Mission, 4:30-6pm, Diego & Edith, pass the hat. Pre-Rounds with the Baldwins - Alamo Palms MH & RV Park, 6:30-7pm, Ron & Jan Betzelberger, $5pp. Tampico Hall. Hearing enhancement available. Subject to change without notice. Happy Hour - Bentsen Grove Resort, Palmview, 6:30-8pm, Fresh Breath, tips. BYOB. Outside by indoor pool (west side park) weather permitting, or HudFor 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 MARCH 8, 2023 214 E. Chimney Rd • Mission, TX (956) 581-1033 Through Our Doors & Hearts Pass Some Of The Finest People Our Customers – Our Friends – Our Family Johnny & Jennifer Hart and Sally Ellis Would Like To Thank You For 40 Years Of Support! LOYAL CUSTOMERS, FRIENDS & FAMILY You’re Invited To Our 40th Anniversary Party Monday, March 13th 3:00pm - 8:00pm Drink Specials & Live Music 1048 N. Alamo Rd. • Alamo, TX 78516 • Office: 956-783-5008 DANCES Sat. Mar. 11, 18, & 25, 7-10 pm • Texas Wheels • $8 Wed. Mar. 8, 7-10 pm • Retro Rockers • $10 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 Wed. Mar. 15, 6 pm • Men & Women of A-Chord • $8 CHURCH SERVICE Sundays • 9 am PICKLEBALL MIXER Thursdays • 9 am - Noon • $2 COUNTRY JAM Tuesdays • 7-9 pm Maude Squad is back Jammers by Invitation Only Sloppy Joe • 6 pm • $5 while supplies last, with chips . h . . t , e , y & , o . , . For more information, photos and tour schedules visit Wintertainers TM at www.wintertexantimes.com www.wintertexantimes.com tainers Winter TM dleston Hall. Conference - Bibleville Conference Grounds, Alamo, 7pm, Dr. Rich McCarrell. Dance - Tip O’ Texas RV Resort, Pharr, 7-10pm, Steven May & Southern Knights, $7pp. MS & Plus Square Dance With Rounds - Alamo Palms MH & RV Park, 7-9pm, Ron & Jan Betzelberger, $5pp. Casual attire. Tampico Hall. Hearing enhancement available. Subject to change without notice. Entertainment - Paradise Resort Estates, Pharr, 7-9pm, Kenny Ray Horton, $9pp. Doors open at 6:15 pm. Encore Show - Sunshine RV Resort, Harlingen, 7-10pm, Sixties Mania! Reserved assigned seating. Tickets are $17, $18, $21. Tickets on sale in advance in Activities Office. Gate and doors open at 6:30 pm. Friendship Hall, 1900 Grace Ave. Dance - San Juan Gardens, 7-9pm, Curt James, $8pp. Public welcome. Setups available. Entertainment - McAllen Mobile Park, 7pm, Blue Wolf, $8pp. Entertainment - Countryside RV Park, Donna, 7-9pm, Darlene and the Boys, $7pp. Concessions available. 100 N. Valley View Rd. Show - Park Place Estates, Harlingen, 7-9pm, Festus. Comedy. Dance - Llano Grande Lake Park Resort and Country Club, Mercedes, 7-10pm, The Agency, $12pp. Event Center. Thursday, March 9 Breakfast - Eldorado Acres RV Park, Palmview, 6:30-8:30am. Breakfast - Lamplighter Park, Palmview, 7:30-9am, Biscuits and gravy. All Park Garage Sale - Fiesta Village, Mission, 8am-Noon. 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. Bluegrass Jam - Lamplighter Park, Palmview, 9-11am. Country Jam - El Valle Del Sol, Mission, 10am-Noon, Free coffee. Lunch - Bentsen Grove Resort, Palmview, 11am-12:30pm. Country Jam & Lunch - Pharr South Park, Pharr, 11:30am-3pm, Join us before Jams for lunch served 11:30am12:30pm. Sandwiches, snacks, and beverages available for purchase. Jams start at 12:30 (free admission). 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. Rock N Roll Jam - Bentsen Grove Resort, Palmview, 12:30-2:30pm. Country Jam - Mission Bell Resort, Mission, 1-3pm, Free. Open to public and jammers. Lunch available at 11:30. 50/50. Happy Hour - Pine to Palm Resort, Weslaco, 3-5pm, Curt James, pass the hat. BYOB. Pop & water available for sale, free ice. Concert - Country Sunshine, Weslaco 3pm, Sixties Mania. Matinee show at 3pm, evening show at 7pm. Tickets on sale now. Happy Hour - Fig Tree RV Resort, Harlingen, 3-4:30pm, Diego & Edith. BYOB. 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, Meat sauce with spaghetti, cesar salad, garlic bread, cinnamon roll. 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. Happy Hour - Llano Grande Lake Park Resort and Country Club, Mercedes, 5-7pm, Kenny Ray Horton, pass the hat. Event Center. 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. 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, Open to the public. 309-337-8711. Conference - Bibleville Conference Grounds, Alamo, 7pm, Dr. Rich McCarrell. See PARKS pg. 10

MARCH 8, 2023 www.wintertexantimes.com 10 WINTER TEXAN TIMES ENTERTAINMENT ROCK & ROLL JAM SINGLES ARE WELCOME Mar 10 • Pelican West • $10 Sat Mar 11 • Alicat Crash • $8 Mar 17 • Time Machine • $8 DANCES EVERY FRIDAY 7-10PM Every Thursday • 12:30pm - 2:30pm Wednesday Breakfasts each week • 7:30am - 9am Thursday Lunches - Burgers & More • 11am - 12:30pm Monday Night Meals • 4:30pm - 6pm Mar 8 • 6:30 - 8pm Happy Hour with Fresh Breath • BYOB Mar 13 • 3 - 5pm Happy Hour with Rusty Rierson • BYOB MEALS 956-585-0703 1645 S Bentsen Palm Drive • Palmview Paula McSpadden Activity Director ALL EVENTS OPEN TO THE PUBLIC CRAFT SHOW Mar 11 • 8am - 12pm Fridays • 1:30pm R/C Car Races Line Dances Entertainment Bluegrass Jam Tuesdays • 1:30-3:30pm Jamie Layton $7 • Sun Mar 12 • 7pm Mondays • 1-2pm 1201 N. Main Street La Feria, TX 956-797-1851 Cynthia Cavazos - Activity Director Kenwood Rv Resort . Enjoy Life. Enjoy it here. BIT O HEAVEN RV & MOBILE HOME RESORT 1051W Bus Hwy 83 • Donna,TX 78537 SUSANTHOMAS, ACTIVITY DIRECTOR 603-396-2786 FRIDAYS • DANCES • 7-10PM Mar 10 • StevenMay&SouthernKnights • $8 Mar 17 • St.Patrick’s Day -TheRovers • $10 Mar 24 • Sweetwater • $8 Mar 31 • Rewind • $8 Soda, water, popcorn, and snacks for sale, free ice/cups, 50/50 door prizes. TUESDAYS • HAPPYHOUR • 3-5PM PASS THE HAT Mar 14 • Curt James Mar 21 • Regan James Mar 28 • CanAm Soda, water, popcorn, and snacks for sale, free ice/cups, BYOB, 50/50 door prizes. BYOB, snacks SUNDAYS • KARAOKE • 5PM THURSDAYS • SOUPSUPPER • 4:30PM $4 All You Can Eat • Dessert for sale Bring your own table service & beverage Mar 10 • Craft Fair Mar 11 • Patio Sales FAIRS&SALES • 8AM-12PM 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 Dance - Mission Bell Resort, Mission, 7-10pm, Ron Mosier, $8pp. 50/50. Dinner available 6pm, BYOB. Advance tickets and table reservations call 956585-4833 ext. 1062. Bingo - Enchanted Valley Ranch, Mission, 7-9pm. Dance - Tip O’ Texas RV Resort, Pharr, 7-9pm, Tim Hadler, $7pp. Jam Session - Victoria Palms Resort, Donna, 7-9pm, Free and open to the public for listening. Friday, March 10 Breakfast - Eldorado Acres RV Park, Palmview, 6:30-8:30am. All Park Garage Sale - Fiesta Village, Mission, 8am-Noon. Parkwide Garage Sale - Greengate Grove, Palmview, 8am-3pm, 2135 S. Bentsen Palm Dr. Craft Fair - Bit-O-Heaven RV Park, Donna, 8am-Noon, Free, open to public. Patio Sales - Lemon Tree Estates, Mission, 8am-2pm. Yard Sale - Roadrunner RV Resort, Alamo, 8am-Noon, Corner of Cesar Chavez and Sioux Rd. 1222 N. Cesar Chavez. Lunch/Dinner - Llano Grande Lake Park Resort and Country Club, Mercedes, 11:30am-7pm, Menu available at Cafe Grande, meal price varies. Country Jam - Tropic Winds MH & RV Resort, Harlingen, 12:30-2:30pm. Country/Variety Jam - McAllen Mobile Park, 1-3pm, Come to listen or jam. Dessert table and 50/50. Jam - Casa del Sol, Donna, 1-3pm. 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. $3 fee. R/C Car Races - Kenwood RV Park, La Feria, 1:30pm. 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. Happy Hour - Llano Grande Lake Park Resort and Country Club, Mercedes, 5-7pm, Jason Whorlow, pass the hat. Event Center. 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. Fish Fry - Sunshine RV Resort, Harlingen, 5:30-6:30pm, Fish Fry $13, Choice of Baked or Fried Fish, Choice of French Fries or Baked Potato, Cole Slaw, Roll, Beverage (1 beer per ticket). Advanced ticket purchase required. Tickets available in Activities Office. Rec Hall, 1900 Grace Ave. Country Jam - Tradewinds RV Resort, Mission, 6-8pm, Free. Tradewinds Hall. Open to public and all jammers. 50/50. Entertainment - Winter Green Estates, Mission, 6:30pm, Curt James, $7pp. Dance - Big Valley Trailer Park, Donna, 6:30-8:30pm, Bruce Boudreaux (Can Am), $8pp. Entertainment - Tropic Winds MH & RV Resort, Harlingen, 7-9pm, Festus Lives with Mark Staggs, $9pp advance, $11pp at the door. Conference - Bibleville Conference Grounds, Alamo, 7pm, Dr. Rich McCarrell. Friday Night Dance - Fun N Sun Resort, San Benito, 7pm, Texas Wheels, $8pp door. Dance - Casa del Sol, Donna, 7-10pm, The Howlers, $8pp. Dance - Bit-O-Heaven RV Park, Donna, 7-10pm, Steven May & Southern Knights, variety, $8pp. Soda, water, popcorn, snacks for sale, free ice/cups, 50/50 door prizes. Dance - Alamo Rose RV and MH Resort, 7-10pm, Diego, $8pp. Doors open at 6:30 pm. Please no bills larger than $20. Ice and set-ups available. Dance - Texas Trails RV Resort, Pharr, 7-10pm, South Texas Ramblers, $7pp. Entertainment - Bluebonnet RV Park, Mission, 7-9pm, The Real Beals, $8pp. 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, Texas Country Revue, 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 MARCH 8, 2023 Lic# TACLB00114391E 10 Year Parts and Labor Warranty Mobile Home Installations 2022 Winter Promotion A/C Replacement 2 Ton - $3,500 3 Ton - $3,800 4 Ton - $4,500 5 Ton - $4,700 Free Installation Rio Grande Valley Call 830-399-0177 Text 956-304-8110 27146 McLelland Road., Harlingen, TX 78552 (956) 423-1446 Lower Valley / 956-664-1446 Upper Valley Visit us at www.gowithjo.com for complete itineraries Eagle Pass Gambling (2 Days) Mar. 7, 21, 2023 �����������������������������������������$235pp (Prices are per person, double occupancy) San Miguel De Allende (6 Days) July 1, 2023 �������������������������������������$785pp San Miguel De Allende (6 Days) Nov. 21, 2023 �������������������������������������� $TBA Monterrey Tres (3 Days) Mar. 17, 2023 �����������������������������������������������������$325pp Monterrey Tres (3 Days) July 14; Sept. 2; Nov. 24; Dec. 30, 2023 ���������$TBA Real de Catorce (3 Days) July 7, 2023 �����������������������������������������������������$369pp (Prices are per person, double occupancy) U.S. TOURS ONE DAY BUS TOURS MEXICO BUS TOURS Go...With Jo! Tours & Travel We Take Care of You! King Ranch (1 Day) Mar. 2, 16; Apr. 13, 2023 �����������������������������������������$110pp Farm Tour (1 Day) Mar. 9, 2023������������������������������������������������������������������������� $75pp (Prices are per person) , e - - , , , - , , - n n , , , m , . - - , $8pp. Dance - Bentsen Grove Resort, Palmview, 7-10pm, Pelican West, $10pp. Dance - Southern Comfort Resort, Weslaco, 7pm, Agency. Entertainment - Quiet Village II, Donna, 7-10pm, Kenaston’s and High Country Band, $7pp. Dance - Park Place Estates, Harlingen, 7-10pm, The Fabulous Cruisers, $10pp. 50s and 60s. Setups available, BYOB. Entertainment - Lazy Palm Ranch, Edinburg, 7-9pm, Winnie Brave, $8pp. Open to the public, BYOB. Dance - Heritage Square, Mission, 7-10pm, The Hitman - Tim Dirth, $8pp at the door. A variety of music, dance all your favorite line dances. BYOB, refreshments will also be available. Saturday, March 11 Breakfast - Eldorado Acres RV Park, Palmview, 7-9am. Breakfast - Golf View Estates, Mission, 7:30-8:35am, Biscuits and gravy, pancakes, waffles, french toast, fruit, homemade rolls, $8pp. Everyone is welcome! 7424 Couples Circle. Parkwide Garage Sale - Greengate Grove, Palmview, 8am-Noon, 2135 S. Bentsen Palm Dr. Flea Market/Craft Sale - Palm Gardens, Harlingen, 8am-Noon, Light refreshments available. Breakfast - Paradise Park, McAllen, 8-9am. Craft Fair - Victoria Palms Resort, Donna, 8am-Noon. Saturday Morning Breakfast - El Valle Del Sol, Mission, 8-9:30am, Pancakes or sausage gravy or egg bake, $6pp. Free coffee. Patio Sale - Sunshine RV Resort, Harlingen, 8am-Noon, Gates open. 1900 Grace Ave. Craft Show - Bentsen Grove Resort, Palmview, 8am-Noon, Breakfast and lunch available. Patio Sales - Bit-O-Heaven RV Park, Donna, 8am-Noon, Free, open to public. Patio Sales - Lemon Tree Estates, Mission, 8am-2pm. Show and Tell - Aladdin Villas, Mission, 8am-Noon, Public is welcome to see all items made by Aladdin Villas residents, no sales. Silent auction for three beautiful quilts made by residents. 1501 Aladdin Villas Blvd. West. Patio Sale - Alamo Rec-Veh Park, 8am, Open to the public. Yard & Library Sale - Park Place Estates, Harlingen, 8am-Noon, Come shop from individual lots, and craft supplies and books in our hall. Garage Sale - Citrus Village, La Feria, 8am-2pm, Club house. 901 Citrus. Breakfast - Alamo Paradise Acres, 8-9:30am, Serving biscuits and gravy special, pancakes, omelets, bacon, and sausage. ParkWide Patio Sales - Llano Grande Lake Park Resort and Country Club, Mercedes, 8am-Noon. Yard Sale - Dream Valley Ranch, Mission, 8am-Noon. Yard Sale - Roadrunner RV Resort, Alamo, 8am-Noon, Corner of Cesar Chavez and Sioux Rd. 1222 N. Cesar Chavez. Plus Square Dance Lessons & Review - Alamo Palms MH & RV Park, 10am-Noon, Tampico Hall. Hearing enhancement available. Subject to change without notice. Yahoo - Restful Valley Ranch, Mission, 10am. Car Show - Mission Bell Resort, Mission, 11am-3pm, Free. Sponsors, vendors, participants, visitors all welcome! Lunch and concessions available. Browse the cars, vendors, and sponsors! Country Jam Lunch - Greengate 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 - Greengate 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. Jam - Big Valley Trailer Park, Donna, 12:30pm, Curly Klaphake, donation. Everyone welcome. Big Band/Rock & Roll Jam - McAllen Mobile Park, 1-3pm, Great music from Big Band era and lots of room for dancing. Come for the music, stay for the food. Musicians and singers are by invitation only. BS Bar Open - Llano Grande Lake Park Resort and Country Club, Mercedes, 4-9pm, Serving beer, wine, soft drinks. 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. Entertainment - Mission Bell Resort, Mission, 7-9pm, Jason Whorlow, $9pp. Advance tickets call 956-585-4833 ext. 1062. Concessions available. Entertainment - Fiesta Village, Mission, 7pm, Spittin Image, $8pp- $10pp. Encore Show - Fun N Sun Resort, San Benito, 7pm, Sixties Mania. Presale $21pp/$19pp/$18pp, door $19pp. Dance - Tip O’ Texas RV Resort, Pharr, 7-10pm, Whiskey Dent, $10pp. Dance - Casa del Valle Resort Park, Alamo, 7-10pm, Texas Wheels, $8pp. Dance - Paradise Resort Estates, Pharr, 7-10pm, Draft, $10pp. Doors See PARKS pg. 21

MARCH 8, 2023 www.wintertexantimes.com 12 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 LIMITED SPOTS AVAILABLE! 5413 N. 23RD ST. McAllen, TX 78504 SCHEDULE YOUR APPOINTMENT TODAY! (956) 994-8880 Dr. Laura Saenz, PT, DPT 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 BRIDGE OPEN 24 HOURS A DAY 365 DAYS A YEAR Come Experience the In Nuevo Progreso Visit Our Southern Neighbor Never been to Mexico? You don’t know what you’re missing! Nuevo Progreso is welcoming and FUN! Visitors can enjoy from a variety of restaurants and artisan vendors or seek services from a number of certified medical and dental professionals. The event, supporting youth education and highlighting the Valley’s agriculture and students that participate in growing animals, will feature rodeos, concerts, exhibits, and discount days. What started as an event on the grounds of a local livestock sales yard with makeshift pens, and then to its current location with tents, has grown to a place with permanent buildings located on over 100 acres. Senior discount day will be held on Sunday, March 12. All senior citizens (55+), law enforcement and military, will get discounted tickets at $5. Other discount days include Thursday, March 9, Carnival Dollar Day – all rides are $1; Friday, March 10 is Buddy Day at the carnival, purchase one armband ($30) and get the second one for free; Tuesday, March 14 is Cantastic Tuesday – armbands are $20 with four cans of food that will benefit the Food Bank of the RGV; and Sunday, March 19 will be the Last Blast Sunday with armbands at $20. On Saturday, March 11, there will be the RGVLS Parade that will be held along Texas Ave. in Mercedes. It will begin at 10 a.m. The music lineup includes Hayden Baker, March 9th; Rick Trevino, March 10th; David Farias Band, March 11th, The Spazmatics on March 12th; Giovannie and the Hired Hands, March 13th; Thunderstruck America’s AC/DC, March 14th; Dale Watson on March 15th; Tyler Braden, March 16th; Bohemian Queen, March 17th; Jay Perez, March 18th; and The Horseman Jam on March 19th. All concerts are free with your paid gate admission. The PRCA rodeo nights will be held at 7 p.m. March 11, 16, 17, and 18. There will be a PRCA Xtreme Bull Riding on Thursday, March 16 at 7 p.m. Tickets for the rodeos are sold separately. The event opens at 10 a.m. on most days, with 9 a.m. openings on a few days. Festivities conclude at midnight each night. While on the grounds, you can’t forget to enjoy the concessions and little shops that will be throughout the grounds and inside the main hall. While there are plenty of animals to be seen, there is also an art and photography exhibit and others throughout the grounds. For the full schedule of events and concerts, or to purchase rodeo tickets ahead of time, visit www. rgvls.com. You can also find up to date information on their Facebook page. RGVLS From pg. 1 Photo by Jim Brunson

13 WINTER TEXAN TIMES www.wintertexantimes.com MARCH 8, 2023 WinterTexans’FavoriteGolfCourse Calling all Golfers! • Fill out our Winter Texans’ Favorite Golf Course ballot below and send it in, or fill out the online form by 4 PM, Wednesday, March 15, 2023. • Check one box to select your favorite golf course in each of three regions, Upper Valley, Mid Valley and Lower Valley. • Then write the name of your favorite RGV course overall. Your Name: ________________________________ Phone:_________________________ RV Park Name: _________________________ City:_______________________________ E-Mail:___________________________________________________________________ Home State:____________ Are You a Winter Texan or Converted Texan? Yes ____ No____ How many years have you been coming to the Valley? ______________________________ ___Check here to receive our FREE WINTER TEXAN TIMES e-Edition (Provide your email address above.) The Winter Texan Times does not share your information with anyone else. • Fill out this paper ballot in full and mail to Winter Texan Times, 1217 N Conway Ave., Mission, TX 78572. • Or complete the ballot online found at www.WinterTexanTimes.com. Look for the Golf Ballot banner ad or sidebar ad. • Ballots must be received by by 4 p.m., Wednesday, March 15, 2023. • Only original paper ballots or online ballots will be accepted. • Multiple submissions and duplicated ballots will be rejected. • Results will be announced in the March 22 edition of the Winter Texan Times. q Alamo Country Club q Ebony Hills Golf Course (Edinburg) q El Niño Golf Course (Mission) q Los Lagos Golf Club (Edinburg) q Howling Trails Golf Course (Mission) q Monte Cristo Golf & Country Club (Edinburg) q Champion Lakes Golf Course (McAllen) q Shary Municipal Golf Course (Mission) q Tierra Del Sol Golf Course (Pharr) q Cottonwood Creek Country Club (Harlingen) q Harlingen Country Club q Llano Grande Resort & Country Club q Raymondville Municipal Golf Course q Stuart Place Country Club (Harlingen) q Tierra Santa Golf Club (Weslaco) q Tony Butler Municipal Golf (Harlingen) q Treasure Hills Country Club (Harlingen) q Brownsville Golf Center q Long Island Village Golf Course (Port Isabel) q Rancho Viejo Resort & Country Club q River Bend Golf Course (Brownsville) q South Padre Island Golf Club (Laguna Vista) q Valley International Country Club (Brownsville) Upper Valley Golf Courses Mid Valley Golf Courses Lower Valley Golf Courses Which is your favorite RGV golf course overall? ___________________________________

MARCH 8, 2023 www.wintertexantimes.com 14 WINTER TEXAN TIMES Serving Valleywide for 35 years Sales • Parts • Rentals • Service ezridegolfcars@sbcglobal.net www.easyridegolfcars.com 2508 W. Interstate Hwy 2 Mission, TX 78572 Come By And See The New 2023 Yamaha Drive 2 PTV EFI 4 Year Factory Warranty Easy Ride Golf Cars 956-580-3370 Dealer Drive Around In Your Brand New Golf Car Today! learning about the courses you visit and love. For the next three weeks we will feature a different part of the Valley. This week we will feature the Upper Valley golf courses. You have until 4 p.m. on Wednesday, March 8, to vote for your favorite golf course in each Valley region, and your overall favorite. If you have any words to share about your favorite, or what you like about the Valley golf courses, be sure to email us at news@wintertexantimes.com. You can find the ballot in this issue, or online at www.wintertexantimes. com. Ebony Hills Golf Club Ebony Hills Golf Club is, if anything, a survivor. Because of its ability to remain relevant among the nearby community and its golfers, the course is coming up on its 100th year celebration. “It was built in the 20s so that’s pretty exciting,” said Josh Brenshols, a sales executive at the course. “We’ve always been a 9-hole course throughout our history.” Several parks reserve times on a regular basis to play the “friendly to play, friendly to walk” course that is now in its final stages of construction along the canal that has created a temporary layout. Ebony Hills is located at 300 W. Palm in Edinburg. Tierra Del Sol The City of Pharr definitely believes in giving back to the loyal golfers that has made Tierra Del Sol one of the more popular courses GOLF From pg. 1 in the Rio Grande Valley. Built in 1982 by architect Dave Bennett, the course shut down for major renovations in 2012 and reopened in 2013 to the delight of the city – and golfers. “The course is in good shape and the greens are looking better than they have in a long time,” the pro shop attendant said. The course is in continual motion to make even more improvements following the $1 million they invested to complete golf cart paths, fix irrigation issues, lift the back side of many greens and much more. The course has several Winter Texan parks that are regulars, from Mission to Brownsville. It plays anywhere from 5,200 to 7,000 yards based on which tees golfers choose. There has also been talk of maybe closing again for another set of major improvements but “we’re not planning on doing that right now.” Tierra Del Sol is located at 700 E. Hall Acres Road in Pharr. El Niño Golf Course El Niño Golf Couse was built by volunteers. In return, the 9-hole executive golf course located at the Mission West RV Park returned the favor with lifetime memberships to those major builders. Three of those builders remain and the course is in full-time go mode year-round. “It’s easy play and easy walk,” said course manager Rick Racine. “It’s a friendly course in a friendly environment.” The course’s popularity is growing and there are enough Winter Texans from one park alone – neighboring Bentsen Grove – to rent the entire course every Tuesday morning. The park is open to the public. “They bring a whole crew,” Racine said. “It’s a very open environment and we have scrambles and Thursday Ladies Day and a lot going on.” “The course also has one of the best shaped greens in the nearby area,” Racine said. El Nino’s 9-hole executive course is located inside Mission West RV Park at 511 E Loop 374 in Palmview. Howling Trails This 27-hole course was once owned by the Martin family and, thus, known as Martin Valley Ranch. Before that, it was a whole lot of orange and citrus trees, The Martins sold the course to La Joya ISD, becoming one of the first golf courses owned by a school district. The course remains open to the surrounding parks and the public but also gave its three high schools (and middle schools) a place to practice, play and hold tournaments. It is a fairly wide-open course, but the water and trees that you come across are perfectly placed – based on the point of view -- where you would like your shots to land. With 27 holes, you can enjoy 9, 18 or all of them and see some major layout differences on each one. Go play the 27 now. Plans are to cut out nine and leave 18 holes. The course also has a planetarium and a water park, which all became part of the improvements once the school district took over. Howling Trails is located at1910 Hole in One Dr. in Mission. Ebony Hills Golf Club Los Lagos Golf Course

RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTczOTk5Mg==