Winter Texan TIMES Serving Winter Texans FromMission To South Padre Island Since 1987 Vol. 36, No. 23 © 2023 www.wintertexantimes.com Wednesday, March 22, 2023 INDEX Reunions p 6 Events Calendar p 7 Parks Calendar p 8 WintertainersTM p 8 Jammin’ in the RGV p 14 On The Lighter Side p 16 On the Road with Jo p 17 Taste of the Valley p 19 Coupon Index p 20 Business Guide p 21 Classifieds p 21 Rina’s Ramblings See RAMBLINGS pg. 18 It has been a great week. With a little cool weather and now back to spring temps, it has been nice to spend some time outside. We have had to do some outside maintenance because our dog decided to be an escape artist – as well as a beaver by eating our wood fence in pieces just enough that he can get out. He broke out twice, about three days apart. Needless to say, we finally got him microchipped this weekend and is being supervised during outside time. Our dog, now about four years old, usually doesn’t cause any problems, but when he does, they aren’t small issues. We are hoping this will soon pass and he will be back to his normal self. This weekend we had the opportunity to go out and see The Lady and The Gambler. Wow!! What a show that was. We are looking forward to seeing what they do next year. Leslie Blasing and Rick McEwen’s voices melded together so well for their duets, and they are also such talented artists by themselves. Both showed the voices Maybe at one point in someone’s recent memory, Stuart Place Country Club in Harlingen was probably considered “Little Stuart.” Now, it’s a golf giant. Underdog, or diamond in the rough, be gone. The secret is out and wellknown. Golfers, and probably several non-golfers, declared that the 9-hole course was their favorite course across the Valley during the Winter Texan Times annual Favorite Winter Texan Golf Course contest. See GOLF pg. 12 Stuart Place Country Club: Everybody knows the name Stuart Place Country Club The annual Texas Onion fest is scheduled for Saturday, March 25, in Downtown Weslaco from 10 a.m.-10 p.m. The festival is bigger than ever, and Weslaco welcomes you to join in the celebration. Texas Onion Fest celebrates the development of the world-famous Sweet Texas 1015 Onion which was developed in Weslaco at See ONION pg. 18 Weslaco Celebrates the Sweet 1015 Onion at the annual Texas Onion Festival Weslaco Onion Festival. Courtesy Photo Thanks for coming to Texas!
MARCH 22, 2023 www.wintertexantimes.com 2 WINTER TEXAN TIMES Guitar Festival next weekend The Brownsville Guitar Festival will be held next weekend featuring a concert each night March 30 through April 1. The event will be held at the TSC Performing Arts Center in Brownsville. The festival was created as the first national competition for acoustic guitar ensemble and to collaborate with world renown guitarists as feature performers and clinicians. The event gives guitar students a venue to show their accomplishments as well as an opportunity to learn from professional guitarists. Ensembles from over 50 cities across the United States and Mexico have participated in the Festival. Many of the greatest artists in the classical guitar have performed and taught during the event, including David Russell, the Los Angeles Quartet, Jason Vieaux, and Los Romeros. This year’s concerts, held at 7 p.m. each evening, will be Gaëlle Solal on March 30, Bokyung Byun on the 31st, and David Russell on April 1. Early bird tickets are available. You can get two concerts for $30, or three concerts for $35. Otherwise, tickets are $20 at the door. Gaëlle Solal discovered the classical guitar at the age of five and began studying at the Marseille Conservatoire the following year. At just sixteen, she took up a place at the Paris Conservatoire. Three years later she graduated, taking away with her an honours degree and a renewed desire to keep learning. Fun-loving, ambitious and keen not to let any new challenge pass her by, she took part in international competitions while studying for her master’s degree. In 1998, she became the first female French musician to win one of the Bokyung Byun Gaëlle Solal David Russell world’s leading classical guitar competitions. She has won numerous prizes and awards since, she has taught, and resumed her solo performing career in 2006. Bokyung Byun has a reputation as one of the most sought-after guitarists of her generation. She holds the distinction of being the first female winner of the prestigious JoAnn Falleta International Guitar Concerto Competition, where her performances was described as “stunning, showcasing her gorgeous tone, immaculate technique, and sophisticated musicianship.” This win is among many. Byun has performed as a soloist with orchestras such as the Utah Symphony, New Juilliard Ensemble, the Buffalo Philharmonic, and others. Classical guitarist David Russell is world renowned for his superb musicianship and inspired artistry, having earned the highest praise from audiences and critics alike. In recognition of his great talent and his international career, he was named a Fellow of The Royal Academy of Music in London in 1997. Among other awards, he has also received a Grammy. He spends his time touring the world, appearing regularly at prestigious halls in main cities such as New York, London, Tokyo, Los Angeles, Madrid, Toronto or Rome. Concertgoers everywhere are in awe of his musical genius and inspired by his captivating stage presence. His love of his craft resonates through his flawless and seemingly effortless performance. For more information about the artists and the event, visit https://www. brownsvilleguitarfest.com/artist-concerts.html, or https://brosoperformingarts.org/guitar-festival. TSC Performing Arts Center is located at 90 Taylor Ave.
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MARCH 22, 2023 www.wintertexantimes.com 4 WINTER TEXAN TIMES Gid-R-Done celebrates milestone Gid-R-Done recently held an event to celebrate their passing of $55,000 raised for St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital. They celebrated the event with cake and ice cream among fans and supporters at Kenwood RV Park. The group has raised $55,440 over their six years of supporting the organization. The group would also like to thank their fans throughout that have supported the cause and helped make this milestone achievable. The group performs pass the hat events throughout the Valley RV parks during the Winter Texan season. All performers do this voluntarily, paying for their own travel, and upkeep of their instruments. Valley parks celebrate St. Patrick’s Day By Herb Moering St. Patrick’s Day could be called a breeze this year at Royal Palms Mobile Home Park in Alamo. The gusts on Friday were not enough to stop the annual Irish-themed park parade of decorated golf carts, pets, and a walker. Reigning over the afternoon event were grand marshals Norm and Mary Hall, married for 75 years and park residents since 2001. The couple, who were given gifts for their participation, came to the Valley in 1990 after Mary retired from a long-time stint as a teacher’s aide that was part of Norm’s 38 years with the U.S. Air Force, a combination of seven years in the service and 31 years as a civilian employee. The period of 1949-52 they were in Germany as part of the Berlin Airlift. He also was at a Waco, TX training base for pilots during the Korean War. He ended his career in 1990 after 30 years at Lowery Air Force Base in Denver. Jeanette Silvernail and Bob Johnson also were honored with a convertible ride through the park as both are about to reach the 90-year-old mark. Silvernail’s birthday is April 3 and Johnson’s on May 6. Jeanette, who comes from Minnesota and a park resident since 2003, was a housewife who worked in the base PX store while her late husband was in the military for 27 and a half years. Johnson, who came to the Valley 25 years ago, owned a grain elevator in Iowa, farmed, and with his wife managed a golf course for 25 years. For 10 years when the course was closed, he and his wife drove a semitruck from coast to coast. Following the parade, activities moved into the clubhouse where residents chose the winning entrants. First place gift awards went to the golf cart of gaily dressed Roger and Wanda Peterson, walker Herb Moering, and top pet, Charlie the dog of Gale and Audry Stewart. The coordinators, LeAnn Hummel, Maria Bermea, and Elba Cooper, served up the finger food followed by horse racing, featuring Joe Hummel as track announcer and Sandra Burgess and Carrol Moering as the jockeys for the six horses in each race. The racing included a betting window, causing residents to urge on their favorites. Royal Palms may have been the only park to have a parade, with many parks opting for a traditional corn beef and cabbage dinner or a St. Patty’s dance. At Bit-O-Heaven RV & MH Park in Donna residents could do both the meal and the dance that evening. Actually, the supper of corned beef brisket, cooked by a couple residents, and cabbage, potatoes and carrots, was the first time in conjunction with the dance, according to Susan Thomas, park activity director. It was also the first formal dinner inside the clubhouse since the covid lockdowns. “Up until now all activities, like “happy hour” and even birthday celebrations, had been held outside,” she said. “Just now getting back to our normal activities.” See PATRICK’S pg. 15 Photo by Herb Moering
5 WINTER TEXAN TIMES www.wintertexantimes.com MARCH 22, 2023 WELCOME TO NATURE SHOPPING VISIT US! PALMHURST THANK YOU FOR CHOOSING US! www.cityofpalmhursttx.com
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It might be ear wax. • 30 DAY Money Back Guarantee • Repairs & Adjustments For Most Major Brands Authorized Dealer Care Credit Patient Plans 24, 36 & 48Months Available. Also 12mos. 0% Interest. Subject to Credit Approval We Gua r an t ee You Wi l l Be Sat i s f i ed Wi th Our Serv i ces Use your phone as a for FREE! REMOTE Palm Resaca Park 100 Tangerine Blvd, Brownsville www.palmresacapark.org Ph (956) 546-7423 | Fax (956) 504-5745 Thank you for making Palm Resaca Park Your Winter Home! We look forward to seeing you and your friends again next year. Alcoa Retirees Meeting The Alcoa Retirees Meeting will be held at 12 p.m. at Mr. Gatti’s on 2nd St., on Wednesday, April 12. The meeting will be held on the second Wednesday of each month through April. For more information, contact Gerry Hueser at (563) 340-3132. Widows’ Comfort Connection The Widows’ Comfort Connection is a peer-led widows support group which meets the first Saturday of every month from 12 to 2 p.m. at Tropical Valley Acres Mobile Home Park, 1240 E. Business Highway 83, in Mission. For more information, call Nancy Martinez at (956) 249-5292. Senior Slow Pitch Softball The Ed Martens Senior Softball League meets on Monday and Wednesday or Tuesday and Thursday. The games are in the mornings at 9 a.m. at West Side Park in McAllen on Ware Rd. There are two leagues – one for beginners, and one for seasoned players. Call Fred at (956) 897-6961 or Mike at (734) 834-128 for more information. 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. If you have a great photo from your reunion or meeting, we would love to see that too. You can send your information to news@wintertexantimes.com. Harlingen’s annual flower show this weekend Celebrations is the theme of the annual Harlingen Flower Show that will be held from 1 to 4:30 p.m., Saturday and Sunday, March 25 and 26, at Harlingen Cultural Arts Center. It is sponsored by Harnito Garden Club, Texas Garden Clubs, Inc. Floral designs and artistic crafts, using live plants and objects from nature, created by garden club members will be showcased. Horticulture grown by club members will be on display in the center’s large gallery. The largest known display of labeled blooming native specimens from Deep South Texas will also be exhibited. Easy-to-grow houseplants will be on sale at good prices, along with native plants from Harlingen native nurseryman, Mike Heep. Local garden club experts and knowledgeable native plant volunteers will be available to talk about the plants, give pointers for growing them and answer questions. Learn about the marvelous plants which can be grown in deep South Texas and participate in our annual raffle of plants, garden aids and artistic floral artwork. The public is invited and welcome. Admission is free; donations gladly accepted. The flower show is open from 1 to 4:30 p.m., Saturday and Sunday. Harlingen Cultural Arts Center is at 576 ’76 Drive, next door to the Harlingen Public Library. Contact Christina Mild at (956) 454-7869 or e-mail, mild.christina@gmail.com with questions.
7 WINTER TEXAN TIMES www.wintertexantimes.com MARCH 22, 2023 (956)566-1157 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 EVENTS CALENDAR March 24 – RGV favorite Mariachi Aztlan joins the Valley Symphony Orchestra for an evening of Latin-inspired works including selections from the opera Carmen for the Carmen Y Mas performance at 8 p.m. at the McAllen Performing Arts Centers. For tickets and more information, visit https://valleyorchestra.org/ concerts/. March 24-26 – Pharr Community Theater will present the play Patricio El Penitente at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday at 3 p.m. Tickets for all shows are on sale in advance for $8, or $10 at the door. Visit the website at www.pharrcommunitytheater.com or call (956) 655-9308. The show will be held at the Development Research Center in Pharr at 850 W. Dicker Rd. March 25 – The McAllen Public Library invites you to their second annual Community Health Fair from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Enjoy free screening for blood glucose, BMI, blood pressure, hearing screens and sonography screens. Also take part in the Cooking with Spices and Herbs class at noon to learn how to cook with less sodium. Library is located at 4001 N. 23rd St. March 25 – San Benito will hold their Hog Waddle with gates opening at 4 p.m. Tejano sensation Grupo Siggno and award-winning vocalist Jay Perez will perform. There will also be a carnival on the fairgrounds through March 26. Tickets are $5 at the gate or can be purchased ahead of the event at the San Benito Public Library. For more information, visit StaySanBenito.com. March 25-26 – The Harlingen Flower Show will be held from 1 to 4:30 p.m. at the Harlingen Cultural Arts Center. The event will feature floral designs and artistic crafts using live plants and objects from nature, created by garden club members, being showcased. Houseplants, native plants, and other items will be on sale. Admission is free. The center is located at 576 ’76 Drive, next door to the Harlingen Public Library. Call (956) 454-7869 for more information. March 26 – Bentsen-RGV State Park will hold their Useful and Edible Plant Walk at 9 a.m. Call ahead to confirm the program at (956) 584-9156. The park is located at 2800 S. Bentsen Palm Drive, in Mission. April 1 – In partnership with Palm Valley Animal Society, join the McAllen Public Library for their Pet Adoption Day from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. The event includes a children’s pet-themed story time, adoption opportunity, and family movie. Donations will be accepted for PVAS. The Library is located at 4001 N. 23rd. St. April 1 – The McAllen Monarch Festival will be held at Quinta Mazatlan from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Admission is $7 for adults. Celebrate the event by wearing orange. There will be live music, dances, vendors, arts and crafts, special walks, a native plant sale, and food. Tickets are available at quintamazatlan.ticketleap.com. Hog Waddle 2023 set for March 25 Hog Waddle 2023, featuring Tejano super sensation Grupo Siggno, is set for March 25, at the San Benito Fairgrounds. Tickets are $5 at the gate, but can be purchased ahead of the event at the San Benito Public Library at 101 W. Rose St. Gates open at 4 p.m. In addition to Siggno, award-winning vocalist Jay Perez will also perform, along with other local musical artists. Hog Waddle is a fun, family event that features plenty of delicious food, cold drinks, and this year, a full- fledged carnival will be on site beginning March 23 and will remain at the Fairgrounds through March 26. The event gets its name from a particularly unusual event in San Benito history. In 1914, one of the City’s pioneers marched more than 2,000 hogs up main street during a parade. After someone in the crowd fired a celebratory shot into the air, the hogs scattered throughout the town. It subsequently took three days to round them all up. And while that occurrence is now a distant memory, its celebratory nature lives on with this modern-day event. For more information about Hog Waddle, visit www.StaySanBenito. com. e e r s h l . y . t
MARCH 22, 2023 www.wintertexantimes.com 8 WINTER TEXAN TIMES 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 24 • Sweetwater • $8 Mar 31 • Rewind • $8 Apr 7 • Night Ryders • $8 Apr 14 • The Howlers • $8 Soda, water, popcorn, and snacks for sale, free ice/cups, 50/50 door prizes. TUESDAYS • HAPPYHOUR • 3-5PM PASS THE HAT March 28 • CanAm April 4 • Jerryco April 11 • CanAm April 18 • Denim & Lace April 25 • Carlos Canas Soda, water, popcorn, and snacks for sale, free ice/cups, BYOB, 50/50 door prizes. BYOB, snacks SUNDAYS • KARAOKE • 5PM THURSDAYS • DANCES • 7-10PM April 13 • Simply Gold Duo • $8 April 20 • Curt James • $8 April 27 • Ron Moshier • $8 Soda, water, popcorn, and snacks for sale, free ice/cups, 50/50 door prizes. 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 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 All Summer Come Join Us! 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!! Safe Travels & Thank You For A Great Season! - Johnny & Jennifer Hart Ask About Our Summer Hours! Mar. 26 Renaissance Rockers Come See The Band’s Last Performance! Apr. 2 Steven May & The Southern Knights Performing All Summer Long! 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 22 Breakfast - Eldorado Acres RV Park, Palmview, 6:30-8:30am. Breakfast - Bentsen Grove Resort, Palmview, 7:30-9am. 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. 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, 3-4:30pm, Diego & Edith, pass the hat. 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. Happy Hour - Enchanted Valley Ranch, Mission, 4-6pm, Chris & Rosie, pass the hat. Dance - Tip O’ Texas RV Resort, Pharr, 7-10pm, Steven May & Southern Knights, $7pp. Encore Show - Sunshine RV Resort, Harlingen, 7-10pm, America the Beautiful. 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. Entertainment - McAllen Mobile Park, 7pm, Magic Carol, $8pp. Dance - Llano Grande Lake Park Resort and Country Club, Mercedes, 7-10pm, Diego and Edith, $10pp. Event Center. Thursday, March 23 Breakfast - Eldorado Acres RV Park, Palmview, 6:30-8:30am. 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. Lunch - Bentsen Grove Resort, Palmview, 11am-12:30pm. Lunch/Dinner - Llano Grande Lake Park Resort and Country Club, Mercedes, 11:30am-7pm, Menu available at Cafe Grande, meal price varies. BS Bar Open - Llano Grande Lake Park Resort and Country Club, Mercedes, 4-9pm, Serving beer, wine, soft 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 MARCH 22, 2023 SINGLES ARE WELCOME Mar 24 • The Fabulous Cruisers • $12 FRIDAY DANCE 7-10PM Wednesday Breakfasts each week • 7:30am - 9am Thursday Lunches - Burgers & More • 11am - 12:30pm Monday Night Meals • 4:30pm - 6pm MEALS 956-585-0703 1645 S Bentsen Palm Drive • Palmview Paula McSpadden Activity Director ALL EVENTS OPEN TO THE PUBLIC If You’re Looking For A Great & Friendly Park We Welcome You To Come Check Us Out! Safe Travels & Have A Great Summer! Fridays • 1:30pm R/C Car Races Thank you! See you next season. 1201 N. Main Street La Feria, TX 956-797-1851 Cynthia Cavazos - Activity Director Kenwood Rv Resort . Enjoy Life. Enjoy it here. 1048 N. Alamo Rd. • Alamo, TX 78516 • Office: 956-783-5008 DANCES Sat. Mar. 25 & Apr. 1, 7-10 pm • Texas Wheels • $8 CHURCH SERVICE Sundays • 9 am PICKLEBALL MIXER Thursdays • 9 am - Noon • $2 Thank you all for making this a great season! e k , V e , r t e , , e e t For more information, photos and tour schedules visit Wintertainers TM at www.wintertexantimes.com www.wintertexantimes.com tainers Winter TM drinks. Happy Hour - Llano Grande Lake Park Resort and Country Club, Mercedes, 5-7pm, CanAm, 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/Happy Hour - Heritage Square, Mission, 6-9pm, 300 S. Bryan Rd. Free admission. Come for a fun evening of singing and dancing. BYOB, refreshments will also be available to purchase. Pass the hat. Karaoke - Paradise Resort Estates, Pharr, 6:30-9pm, Soda and water available. Complimentary popcorn. Over 40,000 different songs available to sing. Bingo - Enchanted Valley Ranch, Mission, 7-9pm. Jam Session - Victoria Palms Resort, Donna, 7-9pm, Free and open to the public for listening. Friday, March 24 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. Country Jam - Tropic Winds MH & RV Resort, Harlingen, 12:30-2:30pm. 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. 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. Friday Night Dance - Fun N Sun Resort, San Benito, 7pm, Texas Wheels, $8pp door. Dance - Ranchero Village, Weslaco 7-10pm, Ron Moshier, $8pp. Concession open, BYOB. Dance - Bit-O-Heaven RV Park, Donna, 7-10pm, Sweetwater, country, $8pp. Soda, water, popcorn, snacks for sale, free ice/cups, 50/50 door prizes. Dance - Texas Trails RV Resort, Pharr, 7-10pm, Curt James, $7pp. 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, Steven May & The Southern Knights, $7pp. Sock Hop Dance - Bentsen Grove Resort, Palmview, 7-10pm, The Fabulous Cruisers, $12pp. Entertainment - Siesta Retirement Village Park, Weslaco, 7-9pm, Ron & Jan Easter, $8pp. Dance - Park Place Estates, Harlingen, 7-10pm, Julia Lane Cooper, $7pp. Rock & pop hits from 1950s-00s, plus line dances. Setups available, BYOB. Show - Llano Grande Lake Park Resort and Country Club, Mercedes, 7-10pm, Meat Loaf Tribute, $30pp/$25pp. Event Center. Dance - Enchanted Valley Ranch, Mission, 7-9pm, Night Ryders, $9pp. Saturday, March 25 Breakfast - Eldorado Acres RV Park, Palmview, 7-9am. Craft Show - Palmera Heights Park, La Feria, 7:30am-Noon, 1205 N. Palmera. Call Kay Falk for more info, 956-277-0316. Saturday Morning Breakfast - El Valle Del Sol, Mission, 8-9:30am, Pancakes or sausage gravy or egg bake, $6pp. Free coffee. Craft Sale - Fun N Sun Resort, San Benito, 9am-Noon. Yahoo - Restful Valley Ranch, Mission, 10am. Country Jam Lunch - Greengate Grove, Palmview, 11:10am-Noon, We will be serving lunches before the Country Jam. Lunch/Dinner - Llano Grande Lake See PARKS pg. 10
MARCH 22, 2023 www.wintertexantimes.com 10 WINTER TEXAN TIMES • 12 Colors Vinyl Siding • Complete Building Supplies • Patio Covers & Carports • Window Awning Parts • Exterior Vinyl Shutters • Phifer Solar Sun Screens • Custom Aluminum Fabrication • MH & RV Accessories The SIDING SOURCE “Lets Build a Deck”....Composite Decking/Vinyl Deck Railing DUTCH LAP VINYL SIDING (12 COLORS IN STOCK) MOBILE HOME SKIRTING (6 COLORS IN STOCK) CLASSIC RIB METAL ROOFING THE SIDING SOURCE 705 BUS. 83 • ALAMO, TX • (800)-567-3311 90 YEARS OF TRUSTED SERVICE Planning a Project? We Give Expert Advice on all Products and Projects Check us out at www.KautschTV.com FREE ESTIMATES VALLEYWIDE DELIVERY • 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 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 956-540-8463. 2135 S. Bentsen Palm Dr. 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. Dance - Mission Bell Resort, Mission, 7-10pm, The Fabulous Cruisers, $12pp. 50/50. Dinner available 6pm, BYOB. Advance tickets and table reservations call 956-585-4833 ext. 1062. Encore Show - Fun N Sun Resort, San Benito, 7pm, America The Beautiful. Presale $21pp/$19pp/$18pp, door $19pp. Dance - Casa del Valle Resort Park, Alamo, 7-10pm, Texas Wheels, $8pp. Entertainment - Bluebonnet RV Park, Mission, 7-9pm, Spittin’ Image, $8pp. Dance - Sunshine RV Resort, Harlingen, 7-10pm, Curt James, $7pp. Friendship Hall, 1900 Grace Ave. Gate and doors open at 6:30 pm. Tickets in advance in Activities Office. Show - Llano Grande Lake Park Resort and Country Club, Mercedes, 7-10pm, Fleetwood Mac Tribute, $30pp/$25pp. Event Center. Dance - Enchanted Valley Ranch, Mission, 7-10pm, Time Machine, $9pp. Sunday, March 26 Worship Service - Restful Valley Ranch, Mission, 8:15am, Non-denominational. Church Services - Hidden Valley Ranch RV & MH Park, Mission, 8:30am, Fellowship: 8:30am. Service: 9am. Cowboy Church - Victoria Palms Resort, Donna, 8:30-9:30am. Church Service - San Juan Gardens, 8:40-9:40am, Non-denominational service. Everyone welcome. Church Service - Fiesta Village, Mission, 9am, 205 S. Stewart Rd. Church Service - Alamo Palms MH & RV Park, 9-10:30am, Main Hall. Church Service - Casa del Valle Resort Park, Alamo, 9am. Worship Service - Rio Valley Estates MH & RV Resort, Weslaco, 9am, Pastor Steve St. Clair leads services, non-denominational, all welcome. 715 N. Westgate Dr. Church Services - Alamo Rec-Veh Park, 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 Services - Quiet Village II, Donna, 9:30am, Non-denominational service. Coffee served at 9am. Pastor Mary Chamberlin presiding. Communion, last Sunday of the month. All welcome. Church - Mission West RV Park, Palmview, 10am, Pastor Mark McDonald. Church Services - Paradise Resort Estates, Pharr, 10-11am, Non-denominational services. Worship Service - Palm Shadows RV/MH Park, Donna, 10-11am, Non-denominational. Pastors Chuck & Bev Wolff. Fellowship and refreshments following. Worship Service - El Valle Del Sol, Mission, 10-11am, Non-denominational. 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, 10-11am. Church - Oleander Acres, Mission, 10am. Church Services - Eastgate RV & MH Park, Harlingen, 10am, Pastor Donald and Cindy Ballew. Non-denominational. 817-475-4283. Communion first Sunday of each month. Everyone welcome. 2801 E. Harrison Ave. Church Service - Pleasant Valley Resort, Mission, 10:30-11:30am, Traditional Lutheran Service, all welcome. Entertainment - Ranchero Village, Weslaco, 3-5pm, The Castaways, $8pp. Concession open. Church Service - Bluebonnet RV Park, Mission, 4pm, Chaplains: Greg PARKS From pg. 9
11 WINTER TEXAN TIMES www.wintertexantimes.com MARCH 22, 2023 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 Next Winter 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 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 See PARKS pg. 20 & Suzie York. Bluebonnet Hall, 3366 N. Bentsen Palm Dr. Karaoke - Bit-O-Heaven RV Park, Donna, 5pm, BYOB, snacks. Movie - Paradise Resort Estates, Pharr, 6:30-9:30pm, Snack bar opens at 6:15 with hot dogs and other items available. Concert - Victoria Palms Resort, Donna, 7-9pm, America the Beautiful, tribute to the USA - Neil Diamond, Eagles, and more. $16pp/$19pp/$21pp, depending on seats. Monday, March 27 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. Rock & Roll Jam - Enchanted Valley Ranch, Mission, 11:30am-3pm, Meal served at 11:30, $7pp. Jam 1-3pm. Yahoo - Sleepy Valley Ranch Resort, Mission, 1-3pm. 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. Beginner to High Beginner Line Dancing - Pharr South Park, Pharr, 2:30-3:30pm, Line dancing for those who know the steps and are ready for more difficult dances. Follows Absolute Beginner class. Please bring a small donation for instructor, $2 is suggested. BS Bar Open - Llano Grande Lake Park Resort and Country Club, Mercedes, 4-9pm, Serving beer, wine, soft drinks. Dinner - Bentsen Grove Resort, Palmview, 4:30-6pm. Happy Hour - Llano Grande Lake Park Resort and Country Club, Mercedes, 5-7pm, Steven May, pass the hat. Event Center. Jam Session - Mission West RV Park, Palmview, 5:30pm, Country, bluegrass. Everyone welcome! Tuesday, March 28 Breakfast - Eldorado Acres RV Park, Palmview, 6:30-8:30am. Beginner Line Dancing - Pharr South Park, Pharr, 8:30-10am, The dancers need to know the line dance basic dance steps. Please bring a small donation for instructor, $2 is suggested. TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) - Enchanted Valley Ranch, Mission, 8:30-10am, West side of clubhouse. Taco Tuesday - Sleepy Valley Ranch Resort, Mission, 11:30am1pm, 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. Jam - Lakewood RV Resort, Harlingen, 1pm, Everyone welcome: Play, sing, or listen. Refreshment served. Happy Hour - Bit-O-Heaven RV Park, Donna, 3-5pm, CanAm, 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. Happy Hour - Llano Grande Lake Park Resort and Country Club, Mercedes, 5-7pm, Julia Cooper, pass the hat. Event Center. Bingo - Restful Valley Ranch, Mission, 6:30pm. Dance - Victoria Palms Resort, Donna, 7-10pm, Ron Moshier, $8pp. Wednesday, March 29 Breakfast - Eldorado Acres RV Park, Palmview, 6:30-8:30am. Breakfast - Bentsen Grove Resort, Palmview, 7:30-9am. 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. 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. 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
MARCH 22, 2023 www.wintertexantimes.com 12 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! The par-36 course plays approximately 2,600 yards, is walkable and has enough challenges to give golfers at any level some risk and reward opportunities. The course’s website states “Stuart Place. Where life can be enjoyed.” While golf plays the key component in the course, which is open to the public, there’s a certain ambiance that turns “playing a round” into having an “experience.” Maybe it’s the friendliest clubhouse in South Texas. Maybe it’s the people. Maybe it’s the course layout or a combination of all three and more. Whatever it may be, the course that is known for “knowing everybody’s name” has erupted into a place where “everybody knows its name.” Stuart Place is located at 155 Highland Dr. in Harlingen. Call (956) 428-2000 for information. Of course, it only makes sense that Stuart Place also won Favorite Mid-Valley Course followed by Tierra Santa and a tie between Harlingen Country Club and Treasure Hills Golf Course. Monte Cristo Golf & Country Club and Tierra Del Sol shared the nod for favorite Upper Valley course followed by Los Lagos Golf Club. Meanwhile, River Bend captured the favorite title in the Lower Valley, followed by Brownsville Golf Center and then South Padre Island Golf Club. Tierra Santa Golf Club A common theme in the courses considered the favorites across the Valley seems to be a reciprocal feeling of “take care of us and we’ll take care of you” as most of the courses have undergone improvements/ changes focused on giving golfers the best experiences. Such is the case with Tierra Santa. A course that is among the best designed with tricky holes, devilish wind and great rewards, Tierra Santa has made its appearance even more golfer friendly with improvements in the clubhouse, the grill and, of course, on the well-manicured course. The course plays a whopping 7,139 yards for those who want to brave the course from the tips - including a 614-yard par-5. It’s 6,045 from the whites and 5,283 from the reds. And, before or after, the new and improved Tony’s Grill has a wide variety of deliciousness on its breakfast, lunch, and dinner menus. Tierra Santa is located at 1901 Club de Amistad in Weslaco. Call (956) 973-1811 for information. Harlingen Country Club A course unlike many in the Valley, Harlingen Country Club gives golfers that venerable feeling that they are playing somewhere special. One of the oldest courses in the Valley, HCC plays a manageable 6,541 from the tips and comes down to 5,625 from the whites and 5,035 from the reds. Length is great here. Accuracy is better. Harlingen Country Club is located at 5500 El Camino Real in Harlingen. Call (956) 412-4100 for information. Treasure Hills Golf Club Elevation changes and grip-itand-rip it holes keeps this treasure of a golf course among the favorites. The Robert Trent Jones Sr.-designed course plays 6,960 from the tips. It’s a scenic course with rolling terrain, water on many holes and a never-ending South Texas wind that blows through especially the holes that are wide open. The course plays 5,422 from the golds and 5,230 from the reds. The course is located at 3009 Augusta National in Harlingen. Call (956) 425-1700 for information UPPER VALLEY Monte Cristo Golf and Country Club Being a little removed from the middle of the busy cities throughout the Rio Grande Valley, Monte Cristo offers those who live there a country club atmosphere without the country club expenses. Take a little drive up 281 and you can find this gem of a course. The course’s signature hole is a par-3 island hole that plays just 128 yards from the white tees. It’s a picturesque hole and the course will challenge golfers to make shots, not just hit it hard, wish it well. Monte Cristo, a par-71 course, plays a modest 6,392 from the golds, 5,373 from the whites and 4,521 from the reds. It is located at 2919 N. Kenyon Road in Edinburg. Call (956) 381-0964 for information. Tierra Del Sol Nearly a decade ago, the City of Pharr shut down the course to make it bigger and better for golfers across the Valley. The reviews when it reopened and since have been nothing but exceptions. Since then, Tierra Del Sol has consistently grown in popularity – and there are more changes/improvements to come. The par-72 course plays 6,827 from the tips, 5,820 from the golds and 5,266 from the reds. The course has several wide-open fairways but it’s still a challenge for all levels. Tierra Del Sol is located at 700 E. Hall Acres Road in Pharr. Call (956) 402-4545 for information. Los Lagos Golf Club The uniqueness of this course cannot be overstated. It’s challenging – and the wind is a confusing GOLF From pg. 1 Brownsville Golf Center. Photo by Henry Miller
13 WINTER TEXAN TIMES www.wintertexantimes.com MARCH 22, 2023 Elliott’s Custom Golf 712 N 77 Sunshine Strip #20 Harlingen, TX 78550 (877) 428-5448 • elliott@customclubs.net SKYTRACK LAUNCH MONITOR Improve your game and receive instant and real-time 3D shot analysis and ball-flight data. Identify strengths, weaknesses & dispersion • Bag Mapping to select the right clubs on the course • Wedge Matrix to master short game Five Star Customer Ratings - Google Reviews COMPUTERIZED CUSTOM CLUB FITTING Sunday Morning Golf Special 9-Holes, with cart $15 9-Holes, walking $10 Sundays, 8am-12pm, through April 30, 2023 (956) 428-2000 1/2 Mile North of Hwy 83 on Stuart Place Rd. 155 Highland Dr., Harlingen www.StuartPlaceGolfCourse.com #1 In The RGV Thank You For Your Vote! WINTER TEXANS’ WINTER TEXAN’S Winter Texan TIMES GOLF FAVORITES Come Play the Greatest 9-Hole Course in the RGV OPEN TO THE PUBLIC 9-Holes With Cart $18 - e g a s a ) e t y y p a a 8 l t 1 9 f e s g n t . ) e g and permanent fixture. Fairways lean toward the water everywhere, it seems, and the moguls permeated all 18 holes. The more you risk here, the greater the rewards. Patience, however, is the key. Los Lagos plays a big 7,188 from the tips, made longer thanks to Mother Wind. It’s 6,211 from the whites and 5,561 from the reds. Los Lagos Golf Club is located at 1720 South Longoria Road in Edinburg. Call (956) 316-0444 for information LOWER VALLEY River Bend Golf Course When you play River Bend you won’t feel like you’re in the Valley. This course has elevation changes like nowhere else in the Valley as the course meanders along the Rio Grande and provides some challenging holes and breathtaking views. The course was once the best kept secret golf course in the Rio Grande a Valley. That’s no longer the case. Now, it’s one of the best courses, no secrets allowed. In the past few years, the course has removed trees and cleaned out the holes that run along the Rio Grande, providing golfers with a breathtaking view that is enough to bring them back to the course. River Bend plays just 6,452 from the tips, 5,349 from the whites and a short, and fun, 4,778, from the reds. The course is located at 4541 Military Highway in Brownsville. Call (956) 548-0192 for information. Brownsville Golf Center Whether you carry a single-digit handicap or no handicap at all, this is a course that always has open arms, friendly rates and a course that is integral to fun and entertainment in Cameron County and beyond. Wide open fairways and large – yet quick – greens give golfers an opportunity to improve their game without being beaten up. The greens are large - but it doesn’t make them easy. Brownsville Golf Center plays 6,144 yards from the blues, 5,652 from the whites and 5,091 from the reds. It is a par-70 18-hole course. Brownsville Golf Center is located at 1800 W. San Marcelo Blvd. Call (956) 541-2582 for information. South Padre Island Golf Club If you live in Buffalo, New York, you have to go to Niagara Falls at least once. Likewise, and with that same sense of urgency, if you’re a golfer in the Valley, you must play South Padre Island Golf Course. It’s a bucket-list must. The course has some of the most scenic holes in all of South Texas, overlooking the Laguna Madre. Don’t get caught daydreaming though, the layout is challenging, and the wind makes everything more challenging. The course has consistently worked on improving its cart paths, sand traps, natural beauty, and other areas in recent years. The course plays nearly 7,000 yards from the tips (6,931), 5,552 from the whites and 5,200 from the reds. It also has gold tees that play 4,079 for the faint of heart. South Padre Island Golf Club is located at 1 Golf House Road in Laguna Vista. Call (956) 943-4653 for information. South Padre Island Golf Club. Courtesy Photo
MARCH 22, 2023 www.wintertexantimes.com 14 WINTER TEXAN TIMES 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 San Miguel De Allende (6 Days) July 1, 2023 .....................................$785pp San Miguel De Allende (6 Days) Nov. 21, 2023 ...................................... $TBA Monterrey Tres (3 Days) July 14, 2023 .....................................................$325pp Monterrey Tres (3 Days) Sept. 2; Nov. 24; Dec. 30, 2023 ............................$TBA Real de Catorce (3 Days) July 7, 2023 .....................................................$369pp (Prices are per person, double occupancy) ONE DAY BUS TOURS MEXICO BUS TOURS Go...With Jo! Tours & Travel We Take Care of You! King Ranch (1 Day) Apr. 13, 2023 .................................................................$110pp (Prices are per person) sisted by the sound engineer, Dennis House, announcer Les Watkins, and entertainment coordinator Betty Dennison. On stage, is the Blue Wolf band comprised of Steven Kelley on drums, Birger Olson on bass guitar, Shirley Spanhanks on guitar, and Jerry Spanhanks on lead guitar and other string instruments. Don Leet and RK Welander (both play bass and regular guitar) recently joined the stage band. I attended both the February 10th and March 3rd jams. The jammers who were at one or both jams are as follows: Roger Bolstad, Johnny Butten, Al Cully, Jerry Davis, Ray Glenn, Jessie Greene, Mike and Tesa Heldenbrand, Charles Josephes, Vanessa Kenaston, Tony Ozark, Barb Porter on a hammer dulcimer, Cynda Renner, Karen Redding, Carole Robinson, Jim Stiles, Suzy Schutz, Banjo Bill Swartz, Jolene Walters, and Bob and Lily Wiebe. This week I will feature four musicians. The first is Carole Robinson, a Winter Texan from Minnesota who four years ago, following her retirement as a diabetic educator RN, started playing the guitar by taking lessons and learning from other musicians. She began singing in junior and senior high school choirs. Carole performs at jams throughout the RGV and in her home state performing at nursing homes and non-profit organizations. She has composed five songs with her “Grandma” song reaching one-half million views on Facebook. Steve Kelley, drummer, has been living in Texas for 40 years. He was motivated as a pre-teen to play drums after watching Buddy Rich and Gene Krupa. Louie Belsen taught Steve drumming techniques. As a teenager living in Michigan, he and his cousins formed “The Monks” band and performed throughout the United States and Canada. His “Hitchcock Railway” band in Michigan performed with BB King while his Colorado band, “Exit 42,” opened for Marty Stewart and Janna Jay. Steve’s “Night Shift” band opened for Leon Parnell and also for the “Grass Roots.” Shirley Spanhanks from Minnesota was taught the accordion by her mother at age eight. She began performing at school functions at age 12. Shirley also plays the bass guitar, rhythm guitar and is a great vocalist. After age 40, she returned to college to study guitar while receiving a degree in a commercial music program. Besides performing in churches and assisted living facilities, Shirley performed with a five-piece bluegrass band, “Outskirts,” and at numerous bluegrass festivals in Minnesota, Iowa, Wisconsin, Missouri, and Canada, plus on radio for the March of Dimes. Shirley played bluegrass music with a band while traveling on the road for 13 years. Her band won first place in a Minnesota bluegrass band competition and she personally won first place at the Minnesota State Fair guitar ‘flat picking’ contest. Shirley played accordion for a traveling puppet show “Heart of the Beast Puppet Theatre” for two years traveling throughout Canada and the United States. She currently performs in Minnesota and Texas with her husband, Jerry, in their Blue Wolf band. Shirley’s husband, Jerry Spanhanks from Minnesota, was motivated at age eight, by his father, to play guitar. Jerry could get out of doing his chores if he instead practiced playing his Gibson guitar. He learned to play Each Friday in November through March from 1 to 3 p.m. the Blue Wolf band, and associate band members with jammers, entertain audiences of listeners with country, bluegrass, rock and roll, and other music genres at McAllen Mobile Park. The co-hosts are Jerry and Shirley Spanhanks asSizzling music at McAllen Mobile Park Jams Jammin’ in the RGV with Tony Ozark Pictures, from left to right, back row, are Charles Josephes, Birger Olson, Jim Stiles, Bob Wiebe, Al Cully, RK Welander, Jerry Spanhanks, and Don Leet. Middle row are Jerry Davis, Carole Robinson, Cynda Rennes, Karen Redding, and Shirley Spanhanks. Front row are Jolene Walters, Lily Wiebe, Barb Porter, Suzy Q Schutz, and Banjo Bill Swartz. Photo by Tony Ozark Left to right, back row, are Steve Kelley-drums, RK Welander-bass guitar, and Don Leet-guitar. Front row are Shirley Spanhanks-guitar, and Jerry Spanhanks-lead guitar, banjo, fiddle, mandolin. Photo by Tony Ozark
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