Winter Texan TIMES Serving Winter Texans FromMission To South Padre Island Since 1987 Vol. 37, No. 8 © 2023 www.wintertexantimes.com Wednesday, December 6, 2023 INDEX Events Calendar p 4 Reunions p 6 Parks Calendar p 8 WintertainersTM p 8 On the Road with Jo p 15 Taste of the Valley p 17 Business Guide p 21 Classifieds p 22 Coupon Index p 23 Rina’s Ramblings See RAMBLINGS pg. 19 Our writers have enjoyed going out and about this past week and will again this weekend. They have been attending Christmas festivities throughout the Valley. And they notice you out there enjoying them as well. We hope you are enjoying these activities the Valley cities are doing for the holidays. What we would like to know though, is what your park is doing for the holidays. We know many of the parks have gift exchanges, Christmas parties, dinners, and other events for you during the holidays. We also know that some parks hold fundraisers, collect toys for charities, have food drives for local food banks, prepare clothing donations or quilts for local children. These are also events that we would like to share. Whether you have a story, or some photos, we would love to hear and see what you are doing. You can send an email to news@ wintertexantimes.com. ******** This is our last issue of the golf series. So look for that ballot and A “Hidden Gem” is something that isn’t well known or popular but has something special or unique about it that inspires positive feelings. The term is often used for travel destinations and restaurants, but people also use it to describe books, movies, games, podcasts, and more. We’ll be honest with you, as the popularity of golf has returned to a growth stage since the COVID-19 See GOLF pg. 12 The Hidden Gems of our Mid Valley Golf Courses By Herb Moering The evening was pleasant, there was shopping to be done and for the kids, a chance to have their picture taken with Santa during the Holiday Market held Friday in Mission’s Leo Pena La Placita Park. The sixth market event hosted by the Greater Mission Chamber of Commerce was also an opportunity for Doug and Dawn Mundt to showcase their musical talent. The work campers, living this season for the first time at Seven Oaks Resort in Mission, were invited to perform during a visit by Chamber of ComSee HOLIDAYpg. 24 Seven Oaks Workcampers perform at Holiday Market Treasure Hills Golf Course. Photo by Henry Miller Golf ballot Pg. 14 Travelers Doug and Dawn Mundt were part of the evening’s entertainment at the Holiday Market. Photo by Herb Moering
DECEMBER 6, 2023 www.wintertexantimes.com 2 WINTER TEXAN TIMES 1217 N. Conway Mission, Texas 78572 (956) 580-7800 © Copyright 2023-2024 by Nexus Publishing LLC, all rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without express written permission of the publisher. The Winter Texan Times is not responsible for errors or omissions in advertising. In the event of an error in an ad or omission of an ad, the newspaper’s financial liability is limited to the cost of the ad in questions. The newspaper is not responsible for any other damages, tangible or intangible. Typically a make-good ad or re-rescheduled ad is considered to sufficiently meet the newspaper’s responsibility. Dan Brunson Publisher dan@wintertexantimes.com Carina Brunson Editor carina@wintertexantimes.com Anastasia Brunson Office Manager anastasia@wintertexantimes.com Published by Nexus Publishing LLC Parks Calendar: Items must be open to the public activities in the parks only and must be submitted by park owners, managers, or activity directors. We do not accept listings for reviews, workshops, lessons, or dance classes. Please include all pertinent information, a contact person, and contact phone number. Submission deadline is Thursday 5 p.m., 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. News: We are always looking for news about events, organizations, exhibits, fundraising, and more, from parks, chambers, cities, museums, and other venues. You are welcome submit your news items, photos of recent park activities, or news story ideas about your park or park residents. Please include all pertinent information, a contact person, and contact phone number. Submission deadline is Thursday 5 p.m., the week prior to the publication date. Send to Winter Texan Times, 1217 N. Conway Ave., Mission, Texas 78572 or email to news@wintertexantimes.com. Events Calendar: Items must be open to the public. Please include all pertinent information, a contact person, and contact phone number. Submission deadline is Thursday 5 p.m., the week prior to the publication date. Send to Winter Texan Times, 1217 N. Conway Ave., Mission, Texas 78572 or email to news@wintertexantimes.com. Reunions: We feature reunions and meetings that are happening throughout the Valley. We hope that if you are having such a meeting, you will send the information to us so we can help you spread the word. Please include all pertinent information, a contact person, and contact phone number. Submission deadline is Thursday 5 p.m., the week prior to the publication date. Send to Winter Texan Times, 1217 N. Conway Ave., Mission, Texas 78572 or email to reunions@wintertexantimes.com. The cottages of Holiday Village Brownsville have moved back to Dean Porter Park and have been prepared for the 14th annual yuletide event. With five new and updated displays, this year there will be a total of 34 fully decorated cottages lining the sidewalks. For those who may not know, the Holiday Village at Dean Porter Park in Brownsville is a collection of miniature cottages, each one measuring about 10’ wide x 8’ deep and over 11’ tall, which are adorned inside and out with the most whimsical and adorable holiday trimmings. The Village is set up in the park every November, free and open to the public, and runs from the Monday before Thanksgiving through the first of the year. This family-friendly attraction is funded by grants and sponsors and organized entirely by volunteers. “We look forward to returning to the park every year, with the goal of making each year better than the last,” said Laurie Ray, Holiday Village Chair. This year’s sponsors include Brownsville Convention & Visitors Bureau, H-E-B Helping Here, Beth and Pat Pace Jr., State Farm Agent Rick Armendariz, Brownsville Dance Center, the City of Brownsville, Brownsville Parks & Recreation, and the founder, Mellena Conner. “Along with four remodels, we have one cottage that’s brand new from the ground up,” said Ray. “We are already seeing a great deal of interest from potential sponsors for our 2024 season. We’re anticipating that sponsorships will soon be waitlisted. The community really enjoys and looks forward to the Holiday Village, and we are all very proud to be part of the project.” Also returning to the park this year is Fritter, the Holiday Village elf. Through Christmas Eve, join in the fun of finding Fritter and enter to win daily and weekly prizes from H-E-B and the Children’s Museum of Brownsville. Patrons can also enjoy delicious treats from a variety of food vendors, as well as performances by many local dance groups, choirs, school groups and more, throughout the nearly six-week long event. Admission is free all day every day, and the cottages are lit at 6 p.m. each evening. Santa Claus will be in the gazebo and available for free pictures every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday night through December 23. More information, entertainment schedules, and Elf on the Shelf contest rules can be found at www.HolidayVillageBrownsville.com. Happy Holidays! Holiday Village returns for 14th season Brownsville Holiday Village. Photo by Anastasia Brunson
3 WINTER TEXAN TIMES www.wintertexantimes.com DECEMBER 6, 2023 The Holidays are here, and the City of Weslaco and Weslaco Chamber of Commerce invite you to celebrate with them. The 2023 Weslaco Lighted Christmas Parade will be held on Saturday, December 9th at 6 p.m., the event will be kicked off with the annual Santa Dash 5k Fun Run at 5 p.m. This year’s parade theme is Your Favorite Christmas Movies. Join in on the holiday cheer with an evening of music, lights, and community spirit. The parade and 5k fun run will take place down Texas Blvd. in Weslaco. There will be plenty of seating down the parade route, so bring your lawn chairs. Additionally, organizers would like to inform the community that road closures will take place for staging down Panther Dr., Border Ave., and Pike Blvd. The parade will begin at 6 p.m. and start on the corner of Pike Blvd. and Texas Blvd. If you are interested in being a volunteer, contact the chamber or visit www.weslaco.com/parade and click on the online volunteer registration link. You don’t want to miss it, school performances, businesses and over 200 Santas running down Texas Blvd. in the Santa Dash. See you there. Other events include a Holiday Lights Competition that is being held through December 15 and Alfresco Weslaco that will be held on December 21 at 6 p.m. For more information contact the Weslaco Area Chamber of Commerce at (956) 968-2102 or visit www.weslaco.com. Celebrate the holidays in Weslaco Come celebrate the Festival of Lights with Chabad RGV at the RGV Annual Chanakuh and Menorah Lighting Ceremony. Enjoy hot latkes; a kosher hot dog stand; carnival rides and games for the kids and more. Open to all and free for the entire family. It will be held Sunday, December 10 from 3 to 6 p.m. at Archer Park, 101 N. Main St. Chanakuh, or Hanukkah, is an eight-day Jewish holiday celebrating the rededication of the Temple in Jerusalem in the Second Century B.C. Hanukkah is the Hebrew word for “dedication.” The history of the holiday is tied to the time when Israel was struggling for existence. It is believed that after a successful revolt against a tyrannical monarch, the victorious Jewish community could find very little pure olive oil to light the Menorah, only enough for one day. However, the oil lasted for eight days, long enough to purify more oil. Jewish people light a candle on each of the eight evenings in remembrance of God’s provision. The eight cups that hold the Hanukkah candles are arranged in a row, one for each night of the holiday. Every menorah has one additional cup, a ninth cup, which is located in the center or to one side and is usually slightly elevated. The ninth candle is called “the shammash,” or, “one who serves.” Jewish tradition says the purpose of the shammash is that “Judaism gives light to the world.” Come celebrate the holiday tradition in McAllen. Celebrate Annual Menorah Lighting Ceremony Photo Courtesy of Weslaco Chamber
DECEMBER 6, 2023 www.wintertexantimes.com 4 WINTER TEXAN TIMES HARLINGEN COMMUNITY THEATRE PRESENTS DECEMBER 2023 9th-10th & 16th-17th SATURDAY EVENINGS at 7:30 PM SUNDAY MATINEES at 2:30 PM Adults $25 Children (Under 18) $10 Based on a true story. Licensed by the family and estate of Patsy Cline. All rights reserved. www.hctvalleystars.org 1209 Fair Park Blvd. Harlingen, TX by TED SWINDLEY EVENTS CALENDAR December 6 – Join Speer Memorial Library from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. for a presentation by author Margarita Longoria of her book Living Beyond Borders: Growing Up Mexican in America. For more information, or to register for the event, call (956) 580-8754, or stop by the reference desk at the library. The library is located at 12th and Kika de la Garza in Mission. December 7 – Steven May will be performing a Country Christmas from 5 to 6 p.m. at the First Baptist Church in Weslaco, 600 S. Kansas Ave. Proceeds will be benefitting the church food pantry. December 8 – Mission Chamber will host their Annual Community Health and Wellness Fair at the Mission Event Center, 200 N. Shary Rd., from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. Appointments required for blood work. For more information, call (956) 585-2727. December 8 – Alamo will host their Christmas Parade and Tree Lighting Festival in Downtown Central Park, 800 E. Main St., at 6:30 p.m. December 9 – IMAS will hold their annual Holiday Market with workshops beginning at 10:30 a.m. and other events throughout the day. You can visit the museum and enjoy their Christmas Tree Forest that will be on display through January 7. The event has a discounted rate of $1. For more information, visit www.theimasonline.org. December 9 – The Bridge Rio Hondo Baptist Church, 400 Bristol Ave., will have a market Bazaar from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. The non-profit invites people to join in for great fun, food, shopping, and a huge car show. Entry is free. Vendor slots are $5 and can be reserved by calling the church office at (956) 748-2251 from 9 a.m. to noon. December 9 – The Brownsville Farmers Market will be held at 9 See EVENTS pg. 18 The holidays are in full sing in San Benito, and the 81st Annual Christmas Parade set for 6 p.m. Saturday, December 9, is the highlight of the season. The theme of this year’s parade is “Christmas at The Movies,” and the procession will run along Sam Houston Blvd. southward from Hicks St. to Swanson St. Keeping with the Hollywood theme, this year’s grand marshal is actor and San Benito native Ray Stewart, who may be best remembered for portraying recurring character Darryl Driscoll on the TV comedy series “Barney Miller.” “I am thrilled and honored to be this year’s grand marshal, said Stewart, who has resided in San Benito since the 1980s after living, and successfully working as an actor on stage and screen in New York and Los Angeles for more than three decades. “It’s ironic because a few years ago, I drove the convertible that carried the grand marshal in the parade, and now, here I am the grand marshal!” More than 80 entrants are expected to participate, including marching bands, car clubs, horse clubs, and plenty of festive floats. In addition, several vendors will be on hand selling food, beverages, and other tasty treats. San Benito’s Christmas Parade set for Saturday Ray Stewart. Courtesy Photo
5 WINTER TEXAN TIMES www.wintertexantimes.com DECEMBER 6, 2023 Port Isabel held their 15th Annual Christmas Tree Lighting and Hometown Holiday Street Parade this past Saturday on December 2. The Parade started at the Laguna Madre Youth Center and went down to the Port Isabel Event & Cultural Center. Afterwards, the Tree Lighting took place at Beulah Lee Park. There was holiday décor throughout the park, including photo op areas as well as one with Santa. Present were food vendors and other booths selling various items. Performances put on by local schoolchildren from elementary through high school took place as well, creating an environment where Christmas cheer was celebrated. Festive cheer found in Port Isabel By Anastasia Brunson The weather was comfortable, and the festivities were plentiful at the Lighted Boat Parade that took place at South Padre Island on Saturday, December 2. Thankfully the drizzly rain and lower temperatures had abated just in time for this outdoor event, allowing families and couples of all ages to enjoy viewing and partaking in the celebration. I ended up at the ending point of the parade at 211 W. Whiting St., finding a good spot along the piers to view the boats decorated with Christmas lights and décor that floated up and down Laguna Madre Bay. I don’t know very much about boats, but I can tell you that there were various types and sizes all decked out with brights lights and sparkling tinsel, one boat even had a tall Christmas tree structure. Besides having the opportunity to view the parade, there were also food trucks and vendors around, giving you options for snacks or to peruse local businesses. In the grassy area was a festive bounce house and a machine blowing fake snow. Before 7 p.m. the announcer let everyone know that a firework display would begin shortly at 7:15 p.m. sharp. Seeing a firework display over the water is definitely something one should check out if given the chance. Once the parade was over people still dwelled about, some even walking over to one of the various nearby restaurants. Luckily there’s always plenty to do within walking distance at SPI. Lights on the water Fireworks on the Laguna Madre bay. Photo by Anastasia Brunson Port Isabel Tree Lighting. Photo by Anastasia Brunson
DECEMBER 6, 2023 www.wintertexantimes.com 6 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 Eagle Pass Gambling (2 Days/1 Night) Dec. 19, 2023 ������������������������������$235pp Hill Country Christmas (3 Days) Dec. 13, 2023 (3 Meals Included) ����������$465pp Big BendAdventure (6 Days) Jan. 27, 2024 (5 Meals Included) ������������� $1295pp (Prices are per person, double occupancy) Mexico City Christmas (7 Days) Dec. 20, 2023 (11 Meals Included)��������$939pp (Prices are per person, double occupancy) U.S. TOURS MEXICO BUS TOURS Go...With Jo! Tours & Travel Holiday Tours InTheFootstepsof Paul (12Days) April 19, 2024 (23Meals Included)���������$5,035pp With Greek Isle Cruise (Prices are per person, double occupancy) OVER-SEAS TOURS Hidalgo Festival of Lights (1 Day) Dec. 16, 2023������������������������������������������$75pp (Dinner & Entertainment) ONE DAY BUS TOURS Reunions are a great time to catch up with friends, old and new. Here we will feature reunions and meetings that are happening throughout the Valley. We hope that if you are having such a meeting, you will send the information to us so we can help you spread the word. Right now, there are several meetings already taking place. Red Hatters are getting together on at least a monthly basis. If you would like to share your information, please send it in. 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. RGVWoodcarvers The RGV Woodcarvers are meeting at the Nomad Shrine Club, 1044 W. Nolana Blvd., in Pharr every Thursday, 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. from now through March. For more information, visit their website at www. rgvwoodcarvers.org. 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. 3M Retirees and Friends Welcome 3M Retirees and Friends will meet on Wednesday, December 20 at 10:30 a.m. at Victoria Palms Restaurant in Donna. Call Louise at (612) 916-9236 for information. Submarine Veterans The Submarine Veterans will meet for lunch at 11 a.m. on Thursday, December 21, (every third Thursday of the month through March) at Junction Café, 115 Cage Blvd., in Pharr. For more information, call Larry at (715) 305-0401. Fayette County Iowa Reunion The Fayette County Iowa Reunion is set for January 18, 2024, 11 a.m. at Mr. Gatti’s in Weslaco. For more information, call Carolyn Beier at (563) 920-3838. ******** “Just remember, the true spirit of Christmas lies in your heart.” – The Polar Express Harlingen Community Theatre presents Always … Patsy Cline. Showings begin on December 9 and run through December 17. The production features live music. The musical play, complete with downtown humor, according to Ted Swindley productions, has true emotion and even some audience participation. It includes many of Patsy’s unforgettable hits such as Crazy, I Fall to Pieces, Sweet Dreams, and Walking After Midnight. There are a total of 27 songs that will be featured. The show’s title was inspired by Cline’s letter to Seger. The play will be presented this weekend and next with Saturday evening showing at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday Matinees at 2:30 p.m. Adult tickets are $25. There will be a $2 fee for credit and debit card purchases. The HCT is located at 1209 Fair Park Blvd., in Harlingen. Their box office hours and online box office can be found at www.hctvalleystars. org. Call (956) 4127529 for more information. HCT presents Always … Patsy Cline Beth Cantu (Patsy Cline) and Amy Gonzalez (Louise Seger). Courtesy Photo
7 WINTER TEXAN TIMES www.wintertexantimes.com DECEMBER 6, 2023 3201 E. EXP. 83 • DONNA, TX 78537 (956) 464-3378 of Donna ClaytonHomes Doug Fowler www.claytonhomesdonna.com • 18Cu Ft. Frost Free Refrigerator • 30” Electric Range • Dishwasher • Stainless Steel Vent Hood • Double Bowl Stainless Steel Kitchen Sink • 42” KitchenCabinet System • 52” Ceiling Fan in Living Room • 60” x 40” Tub / Shower in Primary Bath • 60” Tub / Shower inGuest Bath • 2” Cordless Blinds Throughout • 42”WideHallways • Energy Smart • R22-15-38 Insulation • ArgonGas LowE Thermal PaneWindows Tired of living in that old mobile home? Need more room? Or is that old home falling down around you? What if we took the old home in on trade? We can take your trade and use it towards the down payment of your new home, even if you still owe a balance. LET US SHOW YOU WHAT YOUR TRADE CAN DO FOR YOU AT CLAYTON HOMES OF DONNA! CLAYTON HOMES OF DONNA CAN TAKE YOUR TRADE SSR16602AH 16 X 60 | 900 SQ. FT. | 2 BED | 2 BATH Lic. # rbi3356 g y l r s t l d h e 1 r f There was a slight nip in the air when the South Pole Illuminated Festival kicked off. It wasn’t South Pole cold. After all, it was McAllen’s highly popular and decorative South Pole. But the very slight chill was appropriate – perfect, actually. Parents and children alike were wide-eyed like only Christmas time can bring as they strolled through the McAllen Convention Center grounds, an illuminated oval with dozens of color-changing trees, millions of lights, a carnival, a train ride, a gingerbread house, and a S’mores Station that on this night doubled up as a stopping spot for people to warm themselves by the crackling fire. It was a perfect night to bring to life the colors and joys of Christmas, to have photos taken with Santa and others, and to light what the city claims as the largest digital Christmas tree in America. The festival will run nightly through Sunday, Jan. 1, 2024 on Mondays through Thursdays from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. and Fridays and Saturdays from 5:30 to 10:30 p.m. McAllen Mayor Javier Villalobos fit in with the crowd, the Christmas smile shining bright as he met with passersby. “It’s just amazing,” Villalobos said. “You can feel the energy and the excitement with the lighting of the tree, with the smiles on the kids’ faces and not just the kids but the parents bringing the kids. One of the great things we have down here in the Rio Grande Valley is our people. They are so friendly so it’s truly amazing being out here.” One of the great things about Christmas is the memories. Villalobos vividly remembered one of his favorite presents while growing up. “It was kind of rough back then,” he said. “But one of my fondest gifts I remember was getting a green bicycle. I know a lot of kids get a lot of stuff but for us it was difficult. There were seven kids but that one year I received that amazing green bicycle.” McAllen Assistant City Manager Joe Vera also fondly recalled a couple of neat gifts from years past. “You know, I had so many neat things growing up but as I got older, one of my favorite gifts was a motor scooter,” Vera said. “Back in the old day there were these motor scooters, nothing fancy, almost like something made with a lawn mower engine with a little gas tank, that was my favorite. Also, a BB gun – things like that.” Not only can people relive those wonderful memories at the South Pole of Texas, but they can experience what Vera said is the ultimate goal – constantly looking to increase the quality of life for residents in McAllen and surrounding areas. “That’s very important to all of us and we all have a love and passion for what we do, but when you see the smiles on children’s faces and see people coming together and having a good time that’s the beauty and magic of all of it. “We have a lot of employees who work very hard on this and it’s fun to do. For McAllen this has been about so many struggles and challenges with some of the national media about how unsafe it is to live on the border – but, you know, we have one of the safest cities in the country and one of the safest areas you want to be. It’s beautiful to see all these people coming out here having a good time – for us, for the city and our quality of life.” The South Pole opens Photo Courtesy of City of McAllen
DECEMBER 6, 2023 www.wintertexantimes.com 8 WINTER TEXAN TIMES Sundays 1:30-5:30pm Live Music in Event Center Steven May & Leon Mann Come Try Our TEXAS Size Pork Tenderloin NOW HIRING All Positions! RIVERSIDE DREAMER River Tours OPEN 11-8 Wed-Sun ClosedMon&Tues Proudly Serving Our Customers Since 1982 1 Hour River Tours (Down River) Wed • 1:00pm Thurs • 1:00pm Fri • 1:00pm Sat • 1:00pm Seniors - $12 Adults - $14 Child - $10 CashOnly, Price Incl. Tax Covered Cushion Seating Enclosed Windows & Heating NoOutsideBeverages/FoodAllowed Call (956) 581-4477 ReserveNowForCurrentWeekOnly Additional Boatrides Added As Needed Private Tours Available Sat. Dec. 16 • 1:00-5:00pm Jolly Huntsman Polka Band SAME OWNERS Johnny & Jennifer Hart Gene Watson Sat. Jan. 27 • 8:00pm General Adm. $60.00 VIP Seating $70.00 Tickets On Sale At Riverside Club Cash Only www.ontheriver.net • 214 E. Chimney Rd • Mission, TX (956) 581-1033 Riverside In-MissionTx ON THE RIVER DALE & GAYLE Live Videos • CD Clips • YouTube Videos (580) 362-5437 daleeisenhauer@sbcglobal.net Dale & Gayle daleandgayle.com Variety Shows • Country • Rock & Roll Oldies • Gospel • Christmas Available For Bookings • 23-24 ACE’S BBQ MONDAYS (MISSION – 2536 E. GRIFFIN PKWY.) SCHEDULE TUESDAYS &WEDNESDAYS (EDINBURG – 601 S. 10TH AVE.) THURSDAYS (MCALLEN – 111 E. NOLANA AVE.) WehavedatesopenforFridays, Saturdays&Sundays. We still have New Year’s Eve open. 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 Thursday 5 p.m., 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. Wednesday, December 6 Wednesday Breakfast - Bentsen Grove Resort, Palmview, 7:30am. New Years Eve Ticket Sales - Pharr South Park, Pharr, 9-11am, Troy Westphal, $15pp. Pharr South Lobby. Burger Fry - Chimney Park, Mission, 11:30am-12:30pm. Musical Jam - Sunshine RV Resort, Harlingen, 12:30-2:30pm, Rec Hall, lunch available $. Musicians and listeners welcomed. Gate’s open. 1900 Grace Ave. Country/Variety Jam - Quiet Village II, Donna, 12:30-2:30pm, 215 S. Valley View Rd. Country Music Jam - Heritage Square, Mission, 1-3:30pm, Food served from 11:00 - 12:30 before the Jam. Participants and spectators are welcome. 300 S. Bryan Rd. Jam Music Session - Bit-O-Heaven RV Park, Donna, 1-3pm, Come to play/sing or just listen. BYOB and snacks. All welcome. Karaoke - Bluebonnet RV Park, Mission, 3-6pm, Open to the public. Food and drinks available $. Happy Hour - Southern Comfort Resort, Weslaco, 3pm, Bruce Boudreau, pass the hat. Happy Hour - Sleepy Valley Ranch Resort, Mission, 4-6pm, Live music rotating each week. Snacks for sale as well as our homemade pizza. Happy Hour - Paradise Park, McAllen, 4-5pm. Dance - Tip O’ Texas RV Resort, Pharr, 7-10pm, Steven May and the Southern Knights, $8pp. BYOB. Main Hall. 101 E. Sioux Rd. Entertainment - Casa del Sol, Donna, 7pm, Razz Ma Tazz, donation. High energy show choir from Nikki Rowe High School performing their holiday show. Concessions. Open to the public. 400 N Val Verde Rd. Entertainment - Paradise Resort Estates, Pharr, 7-9pm, Lindley Creek. Doors open at 6:15 p.m. Snack bar open. Thursday, December 7 Craft Show - Tropic Winds MH & RV Resort, Harlingen, 8am-Noon. All You Can Eat Pancakes - The Grove Subdivision, San Juan, 9-11am, Pancakes, eggs, sausages, waffles and a hot cup of coffee. Bring your own table service. Hwy. 83 & Stewart Rd., 605 E. 7th St. Country Jam - El Valle Del Sol, Mission, 10am. Thursday Lunches - Bentsen Grove Resort, Palmview, 11am. Jam Lunch - Siesta Retirement Village Park, Weslaco, 11:30am1pm, $10pp. Open from 11:30 a.m. until food runs out. Come early and bring your friends! Office: 956969-3740. 2712 S. International Blvd. Country Jam - Siesta Retirement CALENDAR PARKS For more information, photos and tour schedules visit Wintertainers TM at www.wintertexantimes.com www.wintertexantimes.com tainers Winter TM
9 WINTER TEXAN TIMES www.wintertexantimes.com DECEMBER 6, 2023 1048 N. Alamo Rd. • Alamo, TX 78516 • Office: 956-783-5008 SATURDAY DANCES Texas Wheels • 7 - 10 pm • $8 ENTERTAINMENT Mon. Dec. 18 • 7 pm Razz Ma Tazz • Pass the Hat NEW YEAR'S EVE PARTY Sun. Dec. 31 • 8 pm - Midnight CHURCH SERVICE Sundays • 9 am CRAFT SALE Sat. Dec. 9 • 8 am - 1 pm Lunch Available, Vendors Welcome (call the office for information) BIT O HEAVEN RV & MOBILE HOME RESORT 1051W Bus Hwy 83 • Donna,TX 78537 SUSANTHOMAS, ACTIVITY DIRECTOR 603-396-2786 ENTERTAINMENT Dec 10, 2 pm • Razz Ma Tazz • $5 Dec 13, 7 pm • Lindley Creek • $10 Ice cream bars for sale. TUESDAYS • HAPPYHOUR • 3-5PM PASS THE HAT Dec 12 • Curt James Dec 19 • Regan James Soda, water, popcorn, and snacks for sale, free ice/cups, BYOB, 50/50 door prizes. FRIDAYS • DANCES • 7-10PM Dec 8 • Texas Wheels • $10 Dec 15 • The Fabulous Cruisers • $12 RESERVATIONS REQUIRED Dec 22 • Texas Wheels • $10 Soda, water, popcorn, and snacks for sale, free ice/cups, 50/50 door prizes. Dec 8 • Craft Fair FAIRS&SALES • 8AM-12PM THURSDAYS • SOUPSUPPER • 4:30PM $4 All You Can Eat, free seconds. Bring a dish with a cover. 6 flavors homemade soup. Bring your own bowls, table service, BYOB, snacks. Dessert for sale. WEDNESDAYS • JAMSESSION • 1-3 PM Come to play/sing or just listen. BYOB & snacks. All welcome. CASA DEL SOL JAMS - EVERY FRIDAY Lunch (nominal fee) - 11 am Music - 12:30 pm DANCES – 7PM Dec. 8 –The Night Howlers – $8 Dec. 15 – Bruce Boudreau – $8 ENTERTAINMENT - 7PM Dec. 6 – Razz Ma Tazz – Donation Dec. 13 – Justin Terry – $8 Dec. 18 – Curt James – $8 NEWYEARS EVE CELEBRATION! Dec. 31 – Route 66 - 8:30 pm $20 In Advance Only Light meal served at 10 pm Door prizes, BYOB, concessions and setups available Craig&Karyl Ruhde, Activities Directors 400N. Val Verde Rd. - Donna, TX78537 956-464-9024 e . - . n t - . d t For more information, photos and tour schedules visit Wintertainers TM at www.wintertexantimes.com www.wintertexantimes.com tainers Winter TM Village Park, Weslaco, 1-3pm, Open to all musicians. Office: 956-9693740. 2712 S. International Blvd. Soup Supper - Bit-O-Heaven RV Park, Donna, 4:30pm, $4pp, all you can eat, free seconds. Bring a dish with a cover. 6 flavors homemade soup. Bring your own bowls, table service, BYOB, snacks. Dessert for sale. Jam - Dream Valley Ranch, Mission, 6-8pm, Public welcome. 2401 N. Abram Rd. Acoustic Music Jam - Palm Gardens, Harlingen, 6-8pm. RC Racing - Alamo Rec-Veh Park, 6pm, Track Shack opens at 4 p.m. Big Band Jam - La Hacienda Estates, Alamo, 6:30-8:30pm, Open to the public. Contact: Myra Almen, 254-449-4568. Church Service - Bibleville Conference Grounds, Alamo, 7pm, Auditorium. Dance - Mission Bell Resort, Mission, 7-10pm, Texas Wheels, $8pp. MB Rec Hall. All welcome. Friday, December 8 All Park Garage Sales - Fiesta Village, Mission, 8am-Noon. Craft Fair - Bit-O-Heaven RV Park, Donna, 8am-Noon. Garage Sale/Estates Sale - Yellow Rose RV, La Feria, 8am-1pm, Household items and decor, lots of jewelry, collectibles, some furniture. Rec Hall. 1609 N. Main St. Blood Drive - Greengate Grove, Palmview, 8:30-11:20am, Saving a life is a wonderful feeling! 2135 S. Bentsen Palm Dr. New Years Eve Ticket Sales - Pharr South Park, Pharr, 9-11am, Troy Westphal, $15pp. Pharr South Lobby. Jam Session - Tropic Winds MH & RV Resort, Harlingen, 12:302:30pm. Rock and Roll Jam - Greengate Grove, Palmview, 12:30-2:30pm, Host George Bowers. Lunch starts at 11 a.m. 2135 S. Bentsen Palm Dr. Country Jam - Casa del Sol, Donna, 12:30pm, Lunch served from 11-12:30 for nominal fee. Desserts available at break. Come enjoy this popular jam or sign up to sing. All musicians welcome. 400 N Val Verde Rd. Variety Jam - Bentsen Palm RV Park, Mission, 1-3pm, Everyone is invited. Bring your instrument and participate or just come to enjoy the music and fellowship. Fish Dinner - Mission West RV Park, Palmview, 4:30-5:30pm, Fish with slaw, french fries, and tea or coffee. Country Jam - Hidden Valley Ranch RV & MH Park, Mission, 5:30pm. Christmas Show - Enchanted Valley Ranch, Mission, 6-8pm, The Chamberlain’s, $8pp at the door. Big Band & Country Jam - Palm Shadows RV/MH Park, Donna, 7-9pm, Musicians by invitation only! Contact Roger Steiger, 507273-3895. 200 N. Va Verde Rd. Dance - Victoria Palms Resort, Donna, 7-10pm, The Fabulous Cruisers, $10pp. Dance - Bentsen Grove Resort, Palmview, 7-10pm, Time Machine, $10pp. Woodstock theme. Dance - Texas Trails RV Resort, Pharr, 7pm, Sweetwater, $8pp. Dance - Park Place Estates, Harlingen, 7-10pm, We’re excited to welcome Ron Moshier to our stage! He’ll be giving us a great night of dancing! Grab some friends and come over to one of the biggest dance floors in the RGV. Setups will be available. BYOB. $8pp. Dance - Bit-O-Heaven RV Park, Donna, 7-10pm, Texas Wheels - country, $10pp. Dance - Siesta Retirement Village Park, Weslaco, 7-10pm, Curt James - “Bright Lights and Christmas Cheer” theme, $8pp. Open to the public, BYOB, setups available, White Elephant gift exchange if desired. For tickets, contact: Karen See PARKS pg. 10
DECEMBER 6, 2023 www.wintertexantimes.com 10 WINTER TEXAN TIMES ENTERTAINMENT • 7PM ROCK & ROLL JAM DANCES • 7-10PM SINGLES ARE WELCOME Dec 8 • Time Machine • $10 Dec 31 • Vinyl Spin • $25 Includes champagne & brunch Starting Dec 28 Every Thursday • 12:30pm Wednesday Breakfast • 7:30am Monday Night Meals • 4:30pm Thursday Lunches • 11am PAY AT DOOR UNLESS NOTED Dec 16 • Razz Ma Tazz • Donations MEALS Dec 9 • 8AM - NOON Breakfast & Lunch Served CRAFT SHOW HAPPY HOUR • 6-8PM Dec 13, 4-5:30pm • Diego & Edith • Tips Dec 25 • Fresh Breath • Tips 956-585-0703 1645 S Bentsen Palm Drive • Palmview Paula McSpadden Activity Director ALL EVENTS OPEN TO THE PUBLIC TicketsGoOnSale January2024 FEB. 21 • 1 - 4 PM Lunch Available 12 - 1 PM Mission Bell Resort 1711 E. Bus. 83 - Mission BringingYou SixGreat WintertainersTM SAVE THEDATE Valley Star AWARDSSHOW 11thAnnual F E B 21 2024 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 Activities: 956-585-4833 RV & MH RESORT MISSION BELL TRADE WINDS Mission Bell - 1711 E Business Hwy 83 ~ MISSION, TX ~ Tradewinds RV Resort - 1005 N Stewart Rd DANCES • MB REC HALL Thursdays • Texas Wheels 7pm-10pm • $8 Dec 9 • Carlos Canas - Sock Hop 7pm-10pm • $8 Concessions available Dec 31 • Pure Country Band - NewYear’s Eve 8pm-12:30am • $20 Includes hors d’oeuvres at 9pm CRAFT SHOW • 8AM-12PM Dec 18 • 8am-12pm Donuts & concessions available in MB Ballroom JAMS (Starts Dec 14) Thursdays • Country 1pm-3pm Hosted by Rusty Rierson • MB Ballroom (Starts Dec 15) Fridays • Country 6pm-8pm Tradewinds Hall CHURCH SERVICE • MB REC HALL Sundays • 9:30am All Welcome ENTERTAINMENT Dec 15 • Crescendo Music Institute Recital 7:30pm-8:30pm • $7 and Danny Silvers, 570-855-3326. Entertainment - Eastgate RV & MH Park, Harlingen, 7pm, Bruce Boudreau, $9pp. Singer/songwriter singing 50’s, 60’s, and 70’s. Dance - Casa del Sol, Donna, 7-10pm, The Night Howlers, $8pp. Music includes 50’s, 60’s, 70’s, blues, classic country, classic rock, comedy country, dance, band, rock & roll variety. BYOB and concessions. Open to the public. 400 N Val Verde Rd. Saturday, December 9 Breakfast - Chimney Park, Mission, 7-9am. All Park Garage Sales - Fiesta Village, Mission, 8am-Noon. Craft Show - Bentsen Grove Resort, Palmview, 8am-Noon, Breakfast and lunch available. Patio Sale - Sunshine RV Resort, Harlingen, 8am-Noon, Park gate open. For additional info, contact Activities Office at 956-425-7448. Saturday Morning Breakfast - El Valle Del Sol, Mission, 8-9:30am, Pancakes, egg bake, and biscuits with sausage gravy, coffee, $6pp. Flea Market/Craft Sale - Palm Gardens, Harlingen, 8am-Noon, In Fiesta Hall. 3401 W. Business 83. Garage Sale/Estates Sale - Yellow Rose RV, La Feria, 8am-1pm, Household items and decor, lots of jewelry, collectibles, some furniture. Rec Hall. 1609 N. Main St. Craft Sale - Casa del Valle Resort Park, Alamo, 8am-1pm, Lunch available, vendors welcome. Call the office for information, 956-7835008. Breakfast - Paradise Park, McAllen, 8-9am. Park Wide Rummage Sale - Country Palms RV Park, San Juan, 8am-Noon, Lots of “goodies” for sale park wide. Patio Sale - Alamo Rec-Veh Park, 8am-Noon. Craft Show - Eastgate RV & MH Park, Harlingen, 9am-2pm, Christmas Bizarre. Lunch is available for purchase starting at 10 a.m. Multiple vendors will be available at the South Hall. 2801 Harrison. Saturday Lunch - Greengate Grove, Palmview, 11am-12:30pm. Jam - Big Valley Trailer Park, Donna, 12:30pm, All welcome to play or listen to an afternoon of good music. 109 W. Bus. Hwy. 83. Country Jam - Greengate Grove, Palmview, 12:30-2:30pm, Host George Bowers. Lunch served 11 a.m. - 12:15 p.m. 2135 S. Bentsen Palm Dr. 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. Entertainment - Paradise Park, McAllen, 2pm, Nikki Rowe HS Choir. Bingo - Pharr South Park, Pharr, 6:30-9:30pm, Card sales from 6:30 - 7:00 p.m. Bingo starts at 7:00 p.m. $1 per card. This includes all games played. Additional cost for horses & 50/50. Snacks and refreshments available for purchase. No outside food or beverages. Dinner is served from 5-6 p.m. Menu varies weekly and you must sign up prior at Pharr South. Snowball Dance - Winter Green Estates, Mission, 7-10pm, Vintage, $8pp advance/$10pp at the door. Contact Mary McLaughlin for tickets, 712-240-2801. Dance - Southern Comfort Resort, Weslaco, 7-9pm, Steven May & Southern Knights, $8pp. Dance - Casa del Valle Resort Park, Alamo, 7-10pm, Texas Wheels, $8pp. Dance - Eastgate RV & MH Park, Harlingen, 7-10pm, DJ David Montelongo, $5pp. Playing oldies, country, and rock and roll. 2801 Harrison. PARKS From pg. 9 For more information, photos and tour schedules visit Wintertainers TM at www.wintertexantimes.com www.wintertexantimes.com tainers Winter TM
11 WINTER TEXAN TIMES www.wintertexantimes.com DECEMBER 6, 2023 TRUE ROOFING AND CONSTRUCTION Over 20 Years Experience Serving Mobile Homes & Park Model Owners In Area Parks Valley-Wide • Vinyl Siding • Roofing – Metal or Composite • Patio Covers • Decks • Car Ports • Additions • CustomKitchens&Baths • Windows & Doors • Underbelly Insulation • Flooring • Window Awnings 956-884-1688 w w w . t r u e r o o f i n g . n e t FREE Roof Inspection “Lets Build a Deck”....with Outdoor Flooring & Vinyl Deck Railing Valleywide Delivery Free Estimates THE SIDING SOURCE 705 BUS. 83 • ALAMO, TX • (800)-567-3311 Planing a Project? We Give Expert Advice on all Products and Projects Check us out at www.KautschTV.com Kautsch true value DUTCH LAP VINYL SIDING (12 COLORS IN STOCK) MOBILE HOME SKIRTING (6 COLORS IN STOCK) REPLACEMENT WINDOWS Bring in your measurements for a Free Quote OVER 90 YEARS OF TRUSTED SERVICE • 12 Siding and Soffit Colors (IN STOCK) • Complete Building Supplies • Patio Covers & Carports • Window Awnings • Exterior Vinyl Shutters • Phifer Solar Sun Screens • Custom Aluminum Fabrication • MH & RV Accessories CLASSIC RIB METAL ROOFING ATRIUM VINYL Sock Hop Dance - Mission Bell Resort, Mission, 7-9pm, Carlos Canas, $8pp. Poodle skirts abound! Concessions available. All welcome. MB Rec Hall. Entertainment - Dream Valley Ranch, Mission, 7-9pm, Lindley Creek. Dance - Paradise Resort Estates, Pharr, 7-10pm, Southern Vibes, $10pp. Doors open at 6:15 p.m. Snack bar open. Dance - Alamo Rec-Veh Park, 7pm, Regan James. Sunday, December 10 Church - Restful Valley Ranch, Mission, 8:15am, Non-denominational. Worship Service - Pharr South Park, Pharr, 8:30-9:30am, All are welcome to our Interdenominational Service. Fellowship follows service. Church - Fiesta Village, Mission, 8:30am. Bible Studies & Prayer - Bibleville Conference Grounds, Alamo, 9am, Activity Hall. Worship Service - Big Valley Trailer Park, Donna, 9am, Non-denominational service open to all. Communion served the 1st Sunday of each month. Come worship with us. Donation. 109 W. Bus. Hwy. 83. Church Services - Alamo RecVeh Park, 9am. Worship Service - Siesta Retirement Village Park, Weslaco, 9-10am, Open to the public. Office: 956-969-3740. 2712 S. International Blvd. Church Service - Casa del Valle Resort Park, Alamo, 9am. Church - Rio Valley Estates MH & RV Resort, Weslaco, 9-10am, Nondenominational church service. Open to the public. Church Service - Sleepy Valley Ranch Resort, Mission, 9:1010:10am. Church Services - Country Palms RV Park, San Juan, 9:30am, Pastor Tom Shouse. Nondenominational. Everyone is welcome. 600 E. FM 495. Church Services - Mission Bell Resort, Mission, 9:30am, All welcome. MB Rec Hall. Church Service - Lakewood RV Resort, Harlingen, 9:30-10:30am, Nondenominational. Casual attire. 4525 Graham Rd. Worship Service - Palm Shadows RV/MH Park, Donna, 10am, Pastors Charles & Bev Wolff offer non-denominational services. Fellowship following. Charles Wolff, 712-4906087. 200 N. Val Verde Rd. Sunshine Church - Sunshine RV Resort, Harlingen, 10-11am, Friendship Hall, gate is open. All are welcome! Pastor Larry Allen, 586-2166443. Church Service - River Ranch Resort, Rio Hondo, 10-11am, Nondenominational. Chaplain Alan Cooey, new this year. Church Service - Bentsen Palm RV Park, Mission, 10am-Noon, Come for church and stay for lunch and fellowship. Church Service - Bluebonnet RV Park, Mission, 10am, Greg & Suzy York of Love Light Ministries. Church - Oleander Acres, Mission, 10am. Worship Service - Eastgate RV & MH Park, Harlingen, 10am, Non-denominational church service. South Hall. Communion is the first Sunday of each month. All are welcome. Pastor Steve Heaslet. 2801 Harrison. Church Services - Paradise Resort Estates, Pharr, 10-11am, Nondenominational service. Pastor Marv Odergaard. Church - Bibleville Conference Grounds, Alamo, 10:30am, Auditorium. Church Service - Pleasant Valley Resort, Mission, 10:30-11:30am, Rec Hall. Traditional Lutheran service. All are welcome. Art and Craft Bazaar - Retama Village, Mission, Noon-4pm, Includes bake sale. Proceeds from the bake sale will benefit the Women’s Shelter. Stained glass, leather goods, handmade jewelry, woodturning items, quilts, Swedish weaving items, and much more. Inside the clubhouse. 2204 Seagull Lane. Entertainment - Bit-O-Heaven RV Park, Donna, 2pm, Razz Ma Tazz, $5pp. Gospel Jam - Quiet Village II, Donna, 2-4pm, 215 S. Valley View Rd. Gospel Jam - Lamplighter Park, Palmview, 5:30pm, Snacks and drinks available. Entertainment - Alamo Palms See PARKS pg. 19
DECEMBER 6, 2023 www.wintertexantimes.com 12 WINTER TEXAN TIMES 956-580-3370 Serving Valleywide for 35 years Sales • Parts • Rentals • Onsite Service Easy Ride Golf Cars Drive Around In Your Brand New Golf Cart Today! Lithium Battery ezridegolfcars@sbcglobal.net www.easyridegolfcars.com 2508 W. Interstate Hwy 2 Mission, TX 78572 Street Legal STOP BY AND SEE OURHOLIDAY SPECIALS pandemic, it has become harder and harder to find hidden gems on the golf course. Now, they’re precious gems. This is the last week of our threepart series covering these hidden gems in the Valley. These hidden gems are recommended by the golf pros, or regulars, at the golf courses. Hidden gems, diamonds in the rough, unexpected surprises — like finding an extra $20 that was forgotten in the pocket of a pair of pants — can have a profound positive effect on one’s day. Similarly, golf courses have some gems of their own. Sure, they have their “signature holes,” usually the most difficult, most scenic, or most unique (most of the times all three) GOLF From pg. 1 hole on the course. But hidden away are those other holes that bring a smile to a golfer’s face (sometimes dread). Some of the courses that often appear on top of Winter Texans’ favorite places to play are no different. And, over the years have made some changes to not only improve the course but also have made some of their gems all “shiny and new again.” Tierra Santa, Weslaco Tierra Santa is somewhat like baseball’s hitting great, Tony Gwynn – it rarely, if ever strikes out, it improves with age and it delivers hit after hit. The only difference, Tierra Santa has more home runs than Gwynn ever hit. A course that has about every shot-making challenge, Tierra Santa is a course that provides one of the best layouts in the Valley, and what was once the overwhelmingly favorite closing hole with No. 18, which ends with a long shot over a lake unless one goes up the left side, keeping the water out of the way. Tierra Santa is all about shot making. Its gems are similar to when you wake up on Easter morning for the infamous egg hunt – little gems everywhere. While you can grip it and rip it off the tee, which is very forgiving, second shots and approaches are the key to getting a good score on this course. It also may have the best breakfast tacos of all the courses (competing with Tierra Del Sol) and the best hamburgers as well (watch out Palmview and Los Lagos). These have only gotten better over the years as owners continue to invest in the course and its buildings. Treasure Hills, Harlingen What makes this course so special is the bulldog-like way that it not only remains open, but how it has risen in popularity with a truly loyal group of golfers. It was almost shut down due to revenue and the fact that the company that owned it was a medical company that had no reason to keep the amazingly designed 18-hole course. Then it sold and with a lot of word of mouth – and even more tender, loving, care – the course immediately returned as a loved one in the mid-Valley. The course that had left the minds of most, has had a sequel better than the original. Easy-looking holes on the scorecard do not translate to reality. The common phrase says 90 percent of trees are air. It’s a lie. The wide openness of some holes leaves you to think it doesn’t matter how you hit off the tee, just hit long. That’s also a lie – go too far left, even if its wide open, and you won’t have an easy shot, or a shot at all and will have to punch it back to the middle. What’s truly precious about this nearly 7,000-yard course is the scenic rolling hills and the amazing difference between holes. It’s almost as if you’re playing several different courses with different styles. ThereTierra Santa Golf Course. Photo by Anastasia Brunson Stuart Place Golf Course. Photo by Anastasia Brunson
13 WINTER TEXAN TIMES www.wintertexantimes.com DECEMBER 6, 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 fore, bring all your clubs – you’ll use them all. Tony Butler, Harlingen This course is a jewel of golf history. That alone is a gem for golfers of all levels and experience. The municipal course doesn’t, however, just rest on its laurels. It’s now resting (not really) on all of the work it is doing to improve the highly popular course. Right now, only nine of the 27 holes are open with the others re-opening in August or September. Butler, a PGA champion from Ganado, Texas brought some of the greatest golfers to the Valley for tournaments during the Great Depression. He was known for his use of the 4-wood, which he would sometimes play entire rounds using only that club. We just don’t recommend you try that unless you’re in the mood for a super challenge and want to be a part of the mystic lore of the course. It’s a place where golfers will always be able to reminisce about the past while making new memories once it re-opens fully. It has a unique design and is truly a gem – historically and playing wise, among not just mid-Valley courses, but among all of the courses in South Texas. Stuart Place Country Club, Harlingen There just isn’t enough time to talk about this tiny giant of a course. This is a course where “everybody knows your name.” Well, at least it has a feel like that – from the time you decide what color tees you’re going to hit from (a big deal since there is a 700-yard difference) until the time you return to the comfort of the small, but relaxing clubhouse. It feels like home, a place where your worries are thrown out the window. You can play competitively or just for fun, by yourself. There’s a certain peacefulness that comes from the moment you step onto this property. It’s unique – and it’s a must-play course. The course isn’t super difficult, but it still has its challenges, and you can’t just plan on wedges and putters, but you could probably still have fun with only that on this scenic course. Llano Grande Resort and Golf Club, Mercedes If you haven’t visited Llano Grande Golf Course, you’ve missed out. If you have visited it, you’re probably still going. Nestled quietly in the historical Delta Area, Llano Grande has racked up accolades like a high school star athlete’s trophy case. In an area that once was the agricultural Mecca of the Rio Grande Valley, it was deemed the “Magic Valley” in an attempt to draw people to the area. Now, their entire park, their convention center and their golf course continue to attract positive feedback and more accolades. The park itself was named the best large park in Texas in 2015 and 2016 by the Texas RV Association and one publication described it as a small town, but its history looms large in the development of the Rio Grande Valley. The golf course has been voted by Winter Texans to have one of the Valley’s favorite holes, No. 9. Recently it was ranked No. 20 on Golf Advisor’s top 25 most improved courses. Reviewers have also confirmed time and again this course is noticeably getting in better shape on a regular basis. The area is historical, the golf course is fun and, at least for now, a diamond hidden in the rough. However, chances are its popularity will skyrocket – so put this one on your bucket list and play it now. Tony Butler Golf Course. Golfer Dean Brown got a hole in one at Stuart Place, 2021. Last Chance to vote Go online to www.wintertexantimes.com Or use the ballot on page 14
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTczOTk5Mg==