Thanks for coming to Texas! Winter Texan TIMES Serving Winter Texans FromMission To South Padre Island Since 1987 Vol. 37, No. 24 © 2024 www.wintertexantimes.com Wednesday, March 27, 2024 INDEX Events Calendar p 4 Parks Calendar p 9 WintertainersTM p 9 Jammin’ in the RGV p 12 On the Road with Jo p 14 Taste of the Valley p 17 Business Guide p 20 Classifieds p 21 Mission Chamber of Commerce board members, employees, and Winter Texans were present on Monday when the City of Mission made a proclamation declaring March as Winter Texan month. The city noted the impact Winter Texans make to the Valley, and to the City of Mission, in the proclamation. According to recent surveys, the Rio Grande Valley is a favored destination for Winter Texans. The proclamation goes on to state that Mission, the “Home of the Grapefruit” and the “Mecca of Texas,” ranks highest in Texas and sixth among the best destinations nationwide for winter visitors. UTRGV Data and Information Systems Centers states that Winter Texan visitors and their visiting family members have a total economic impact of $1.9 billion a year to the Rio Grande Valley, says the proclamation. According to the Mission Economic Development Corporation, Mission is home to an estimated 50,000 Winter Texan each year. Mission is home to 47 RV parks, the largest of all municipalities in the Rio Grande Valley. Three-quarters Three nations honored at Progreso Tourist Day The American delegation headed toward the center of the Progreso International Bridge for a friendship ceremony with the Mexican delegation. Photo by Herb Moering By Herb Moering Tourist Day in Nuevo Progreso was able to honor three nations for the first time ever thanks to Marlynda Roiger, chosen as 2024 queen for the day. She is a Canadian by birth, and her husband, Jerry, an American, named king, have been charitable givers in Mexico. They thought it was quite an honor to represent three countries. See PROGRESO pg. 18 See MISSION pg. 16 Thank you for visiting, stay safe As we come to the close of another winter season, we want to tell you how much we enjoy having you visit us each year. I hate to see it go. We always enjoy your time with us, and our time with you, and we sure are going to miss it while you are gone. See THANK YOU pg. 18 Closed Easter Weekend – Friday, March 29 and Monday, April 1 New Office Hours – April through August Monday – Thursday, 9 a.m.-12 p.m., 1 p.m.-5 p.m. Mission proclaims March as Winter Texan Month Winter Texan Fiesta, 2024. Photo by William Brunson
MARCH 27, 2024 www.wintertexantimes.com 2 WINTER TEXAN TIMES 1217 N. Conway, Mission, Texas 78572 (956) 580-7800 www.wintertexantimes.com © 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. www.wintertexantimes.com The McAllen Wind Ensemble is excited to conclude its 50th Anniversary Season with an extra special performance. Their next concert, titled “A Golden Celebration: 50 Years of Music,” is Sunday, April 7, at 3 p.m. at the McAllen Performing Arts Center. From its first concert in 1974 as the Town Band, to its current performances as the McAllen Wind Ensemble, the organization has been entertaining the public with spectacular music for 50 years. The golden anniversary concert will feature music performed at the first concert in 1974 as well as brand new music. The Town BandAssociation commissioned a new composition by former band member, Willie Owens. “Ciudad de las Palmas” will receive its world premiere at the concert and capture some of the energy and spirit of the band over the years. The organization has always been focused on providing a musical outlet for local musicians, starting with some of our most talented local high school students. As has become tradition, the final concert of the season will spotlight the winner of this year’s high school concerto competition. The Town Band has been supported throughout its history by the City of McAllen. The city provides rehearsal space, has been a partner on performance venues, funds an annual grant, and is a regional advocate for public music. At the concert, the city will issue a proclamation honoring the band’s golden anniversary. The band’s history will be honored through displays in the lobby. Photos from different eras and memorabilia will tell the history of the organization over the decades. Past directors and past members will attend to enjoy the current ensemble’s music and share memories with each other. Some band members have been volunteering their time with the band for several years. Elizabeth Pierson has been playing the clarinet and piano for the ensemble for 43 years. She says it’s the anticipation and wanting to know what music they will play each year that keeps her coming back. She always wants to meet new people that decide to join and learn about new opportunities. Pierson said she enjoys working as a group and that feeling of success after a concert. She also enjoys practicing and maintaining her performance levels, as well as the social interaction with the group that includes various ages, experiences, and occupations. She remembers all her firsts – her first concert at the old civic center in McAllen, first concert in the McAllen Performing Arts Center, and first concerts with different directors. She also has fond memories of takSee MWE pg. 19 MWE celebrates 50 years with special anniversary concert First formal picture, 1977. Courtesy photo
3 WINTER TEXAN TIMES www.wintertexantimes.com MARCH 27, 2024 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. Timothy V. Dixon Ministry will be at the McAllen Convention Center April 12 through 14. Services will begin at 7 p.m. on Friday, April 12, and Saturday, April 13. On Sunday, April 14, service will begin at 6 p.m. Doors open one hour prior to the service time. Timothy Dixon Ministry travels the United States delivering the powerful word of hope, salvation, healing, and deliverance. In 1983 Prophet Dixon was set free from a life of drug and alcohol abuse and surrendered his whole heart to Jesus. He was called to preach and share the good news with all that will receive. During his ministry, alongside his wife Rose, they have seen many miracles. Their joined hearts for Jesus drive them to see this same victory in the lives of others. There are testimonies of healings while attendees are simply in their seats during services. Everyone is invited to this Free Event. All local pastors are invited to join in unity and experience this movement of God. For anyone needing a breakthrough in their life, this revival is open to you. Further details can be found at https://timothyvdixonministry.org/events . The McAllen Convention Center is located at 700 Convention Center Blvd. For more information about the event, email angelazionsassembly@gmail.com. Three-night revival will be held in McAllen Courtesy photo
MARCH 27, 2024 www.wintertexantimes.com 4 WINTER TEXAN TIMES THRE E N I GHT HEAL I NG REV I VAL WI TH T IMOTHY V D I XON EVANGE L I ST & PROPHE T (MI DLAND C I TY, ALABAMA ) Praise & Worship • Preaching of God’s Word • Prayer for Healing Come Expecting a Miracle for you and your family! WHERE: MCALLEN CONVENTION CENTER 700 CONVENTION CENTER BLVD, MCALLEN, TX 78501 DATES: FRIDAY - 4/12/2024 - 7:00 PM SATURDAY - 4/13/2024 - 7:00 PM SUNDAY - 4/14/2024 - 6:00 PM Admission is free, registration is not required to attend. However, registration is appreciated for each attendee, so that we can make seating preparations. For assistance contact angelazionsassembly@gmail.com Rich Christian (956) 369-9945 - McAllen Contact Only Free Event SCAN ME EVENTS CALENDAR March 27 – Dr. Mark Ramirez will perform at UTRGV Performing Arts Complex, 1201 W. University Dr., Edinburg, at 7 p.m. This is a free concert – RSVP online at www. showpass.com/utrgv-mark-ramirezpercussion/. March 28 – Abiding Savior Lutheran Church will have a special Holy Thursday Worship at 3 p.m. Call to inquire about their practice of Close Communion. The church is located at 599 S. Westgate Drive in Weslaco. Call Pastor Steven Wagenknecht at (956) 968-5228 for more information. March 29 – Abiding Savior Lutheran Church will have a Service of the Seven Words on Good Friday at 3 p.m. The church is located at 599 S. Westgate Drive in Weslaco. Call Pastor Steven Wagenknecht at (956) 968-5228 for more information. March 29 – Pianist Manuel Tevar will perform a free concert at TSC Performing Arts Center in Brownsville (80 Taylor Ave.) Concert is at 7 p.m. You can RSVP online at www. showpass.com/music-guest-artist-series-manuel-tevar-piano/. March 30 – The Brownsville Farmers Market will be held at 9 a.m. at Linear Park, E. 6th St. and E. Ringgold St. The event is held every Saturday. March 30 – Firemen’s Park in McAllen will host the Growing Growers Farmers Market at 9 a.m. The park is located at 201 N. 1st St. The event is held every Saturday. March 30 – The McAllen FarmBiscuits & Gravy Neighborhood Kitchen presents Sweetwater, Saturday, March 30, from 7 to 10 p.m. The dance will be held at Consuelo’s Event Center, 935 W. Bus. 83, in Donna (located in front of the Val Verde Flea Market). Pre-sale tickets are available at Biscuits and Gravy for $5. Biscuits & Gravy is super appreciative of all their customers, those that live in the Rio Grande Valley year-round and those that partake of the wonderful culture and food for part of the year. Bringing the Sweetwater band on March 30 is a simple gesture of thanks and saying safe travels back home. “We started this restaurant in October 2022 and have had angels watching over us as we forge forward. We have been blessed with customers that are willing to support local businesses. We are proud to be able to provide some comfort food in Donna. We love having new people who were encouraged to come try out our place by friends and family,” said the owners. “We appreciate it when you bring your out of town or out of state guests. We know there are many choices to eat along the RGV, but we are thankful you come to see us! We have local celebrities, weekly groups, and meetups, as well as organizations such as the University of Wyoming swim team come to Biscuits & Gravy, and we couldn’t be more humbled. Thank you for making us part of your day! “As long as you bring a friend, share a meal, and make some memories, we will keep growing, learning, loving, and smiling!” The Martinez Family thanks all that have come by their restaurant and are thrilled to have the opportunity to host this appreciation dance to show their love for the community that has supported them the last two years. For additional information, call (956) 733-1671. Biscuits & Gravy Neighborhood Kitchen to host appreciation dance See EVENTS pg. 6
5 WINTER TEXAN TIMES www.wintertexantimes.com MARCH 27, 2024 WELCOME TO NATURE SHOPPING VISIT US! PALMHURST THANK YOU FOR CHOOSING US! www.cityofpalmhursttx.com
MARCH 27, 2024 www.wintertexantimes.com 6 WINTER TEXAN TIMES Within A Few Minutes Drive Of • Public River Access • Hiking Trails • Shopping • Dining Pull-Through and Back-In Sites Graded Sites Include Full Service Hookups No RV, No Problem Pop-up, 32’ Camper, & Rustic Camp Site Available Wi-Fi and Firewood Included FREE With All Sites Call Now – Limited Sites Available Reserve your site before leaving the RGV (417) 372-7301 Nightly Rates Start @ $50 Just off US 60 in Van Buren, MO https://rivertimerv.com/ • rivertimerv@gmail.com Call today to schedule a free consultation and let us show you how professionally designed marketing materials with clear and consistent messaging can elevate your brand. You Only Get One Chance To Make A First Impression Make It Count With Promos & Prints On Your Side Sales@promosandprints.com (956) 580-7800 1217 N Conway Ave, Mission, TX A Division of Nexus Publishing LLC ers Market will be held at the McAllen Public Library from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. The event is held every Saturday. The library is located at 4001 N. 23rd St. For more information visit mcallenfarmersmarket.com. March 30 – Bentsen-Rio Grande Valley State Park will host a Useful and Edible Plants class at 10:30 a.m. Call (956) 584-9156. The park is located at 2800 S. Bentsen Palm Drive in Mission. March 30 – Biscuits & Gravy Neighborhood Kitchen presents Sweetwater from 7 to 10 p.m. for an appreciation dance to the Winter Texans and other customers. The dance will be held at Consuelo’s Event Center, 935 W. Bus. 83, in Donna (located in front of the Val Verde Flea Market). Pre-sale tickets are available at Biscuits and Gravy for $5. March 30 – Soprano Rebecca Coberly and pianist Pablo Andrade will perform a free concert at the TSC Performing Arts Center in Brownsville at 7 p.m. (90 Taylor Ave.) You can RSVP online at www. showpass.com/utrgv-faculty-artist-series-rebecca-coberly-soprano-and-juan-pablo-andrade-piano/ March 31 – Join Abiding Savior Lutheran Church for ‘Sonrise’ Song Service at 7:30 a.m., Easter Breakfast and egg hunt at 8:30 a.m. and Festival of the Resurrection at 10 a.m. The church is located at 599 S. Westgate Drive in Weslaco. Call Pastor Steven Wagenknecht at (956) 968-5228 for more information. March 31 – Buena Vida 77 Farmer’s Market will be held at Bannworth Park Pavilion in Mission from 2 to 4:30 p.m. Bannworth Park is located at 1822 N. Shary Rd. April 4-6 – Edinburg will host their UFO Festival with special speakers and events. A special event will be held from 7 to 10 p.m. at the Promenade Park Amphitheater, 201 W. McIntyre St. For more information visit edinburgufo.com. Tickets available at the Sekula Library. EVENTS From pg. 4
7 WINTER TEXAN TIMES www.wintertexantimes.com MARCH 27, 2024 RioValleyEstates@gmail.com www.RioValleyEstates.com MHDRET00035769 For Information Call 956-968-2708 715 N. Westgate Dr. • Weslaco Expwy 83 Business 83 W Pike Blvd Panther Dr Westgate Dr Lot 218: Featuring a Marshfield 14x66 2-BR, 1-BA home • 11x18 Texas room. • Vinyl Siding and Windows • Mostly new laminate flooring • Fireplace Insert • New electric range and refrigerator • Great 10x11 covered front deck (under carport) • NEW AIR CONDITIONER! HOMES at TEXAS TWO-STEP MANAGER’S SALE Rio Valley Estates Step 1: Choose Your Home Lot 230: Featuring a Marlette 14x67 2-BR, 1-BA home • Close to the pool and shuffleboard lanes. • New laminate floors, • Electric range, and refrigerator • Nice 10x14 shed • Used A/C package unit. OR Step 2: Choose Your Purchase Option Option 1: Cash sale. $39,000 without lease Affordable financing is available upon request and approval. A limited 60-day warranty for major fixtures applies. OR Option 2: Cash sale. $34,000 with a 2-year lease With a fixed rental rate for 24 months with the last month FREE. Affordable financing is available upon request and approval. A limited 60-day warranty for major fixtures applies. By Barb Zanetti Photos by Dennis Zanetti Boxes of Kleenex topped several tables at Alamo Palms RV Resort’s recent Scholarship Committee reception to celebrate the 21 high school seniors who each earned a $1,000 scholarship. Most residents had been to last year’s event. They knew what to expect. They knew their tears would flow as PSJA Memorial high school seniors told their life stories. Told of almost unimaginable obstacles they had overcome to be invited. “I easily went through 10 Kleenexes!” Delaila Zarate, Alamo Palms manager said. “I related to many students. They made me feel and understand that there is so much need.” She said that one of the most touching life stories for her was the student’s whose mom was forced to go back to Mexico. The young child was left with her grandmother because her mom believed that her daughter would have better opportunities here. “What a sacrifice for everyone involved,” Delaila said. “It’s almost unimaginable!” Alamo Palms resident Carmel Hazard said that she could tell many students didn’t have a lot at home. One of the most memorable stories for her was when a student described how a mom kept her daughter from making a mess in the homes she was cleaning. “Her mom made a circle with rags, a ring, to contain her,” Carmel said. “I thought that was really touching and heartbreaking.” Carmel liked that the students thanked not only the Alamo Palms’ Scholarship Committee and its residents, along with their Alamo counselors, but also recognized their families’ sacrifices and contributions to their high school success. “Although the young girl ‘in the circle of rags’ hated going to work with her mom at the flea market, she realizes that’s how her mom managed to give her ‘extras’… like new shoes,” Carmel said. “And she still goes there to help!” Although it was sad at times, park residents said they appreciated learning about their student guests. “They are our future,” Scholarship Committee member Tammy Greer said. “And are so inspiring!” Students also enjoyed spending time with their Winter Texan hosts. “The reception was sooo fun!” senior Enrique Pena said. “I didn’t think the park residents would be so funny. They were super … heartfelt, kind, and thoughtful in their conversations with me.” During a lighter moment, one of the senior boys insisted that when he gets old, he’d love to become a Winter Texan because “they are so caring and look like they’re having so much fun!” Quilt Makers Blanket Seniors with Warmth At the end of the scholarship reception, each student was presented with a quilt by one of the quilters. This tradition started 10 years ago. Resident Audrey Reichard Stories, tears and quilts make scholarship reception exceptional See QUILTS pg. 15 Scholastic Committee co-chairperson Nancy Nielsen introduced each of the 21 students who were awarded $1,000 scholarships to a large audience filled with Alamo Palms RV Park residents, as well as students’ friends and relatives. At this yearly reception, students talked about their life and outlined their educational goals.
MARCH 27, 2024 www.wintertexantimes.com 8 WINTER TEXAN TIMES RioValleyEstates@gmail.com www.RioValleyEstates.com • 1 FREE High Speed Internet Modem with WiFi • 1 FREE Spectrum TV Cable Box • Swimming Pool & Hot Tub • Recreation Hall • Fun Activities • Concrete Pad Sites • Full Hookups • Wide Paved Streets • Gated Community 715 N. Westgate Dr. • Weslaco 956-968-2708 Expwy 83 Business 83 W Pike Blvd Panther Dr Westgate Dr RVs at Rent One Week Get One Week FREE OR Rent One Month Get One Month Call and reserve your space TODAY! Limited time offer expires March 31, 2024. Rio Valley Estates ROGO (956)566-1157 The Brownsville Society for Performing Arts presents the annual Brownsville Guitar Festival to run April 4 through 6 at the TSC Performing Arts Center, 90 Taylor Ave. There are three concerts that are open to the public. All concerts begin at 7 p.m. On Thursday, April 4, Lovro Peretic, winner of the 2022 Guitar Foundation of America’s Solo Artist Competition will perform. He is an internationally award-winning classical guitarist from Zagreb (Croatia). The Austin Guitar Quartet will perform on Friday, April 5. The Grammy-nominated group is made up of Dr. Chad Ibison, Dr. Janet Grohovac, Stephen Krishnan, and Dragos Ilie. Based in the live music capital known worldwide for its thriving guitar scene, the group embodies Austin’s love of live concerts, new music, and the guitar. Guitar Festival next week The busy season is starting to wind down at Bentsen State Park, but there is still plenty of things to do. On April 8, the solar eclipse will occur and the Valley should get a nice view of a partial eclipse. While the park is not planning a special event for it, the park will still be a great place to get out and view this rare event. As we get to the warmer months, the park will be bringing back out summer programs such as kayaking, as well as indoor learning activities, water science, and more. Hawk watch continues until the end of April from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. (meeting at the Hawk Tower), and it has been a good season so far. So, come on out and see what is happening. OnApril 12, there will be an Easy Nature Walk at 9 a.m. A Useful and Edible Plants class will be held on Saturday, April 20 and April 27, at 10:30 a.m. Kayaking, which requires reservations, starts on Sunday, April 21 at 10:30 a.m. Another program that requires reservations is Wild Wellness, which will be held on ThursApril programs at Bentsen State Park Beautiful and specialized plants such as Retama and Mexican Olive trees grow at Bentsen SP and are a part of our local culture and history. Photo courtesy of TPWD/Thomas Riddle See GUITAR pg. 20 See BENTSEN pg. 20 Austin Guitar Quartet. Courtesy photo
9 WINTER TEXAN TIMES www.wintertexantimes.com MARCH 27, 2024 Come Try Our TEXAS Size Pork Tenderloin RIVERSIDE DREAMER River Tours OPEN 11-8 Tues-Sun ClosedMonday Covered Cushion Seating Enclosed Windows & Heating NoOutsideBeverages/FoodAllowed Call (956) 581-4477 ReserveNowForCurrentWeekOnly Additional Boatrides Added As Needed www.ontheriver.net • 214 E. Chimney Rd • Mission, TX Safe Travels Home SEE YOU NEXT SEASON! Sundays 1:30-5:30pm Live Music in Event Center Mar. 31 Steven May & The Southern Knights CashOnly, Price Incl. Tax 2 Hour River Tours (Up River Only) Tues • 10:30am Wed • 10:30am Seniors - $22 • Adults - $26 Seniors - $12 • Adults - $14 1 Hour River Tours (Down River) Tues 1:00pm Wed 1:00pm Thurs 1:00pm Fri 1:00pm Sat 1:00pm • • • • • (956) 581-1033 Riverside In-MissionTx ON THE RIVER outsideseating Beautiful Patio Private Tours Available OPEN EASTER SUNDAY Live Music BIT O HEAVEN RV & MOBILE HOME RESORT 1051W Bus Hwy 83 • Donna,TX 78537 SUSANTHOMAS, ACTIVITY DIRECTOR 603-396-2786 TUESDAYS • HAPPYHOUR • 3-5PM PASS THE HAT Apr 2 • Bruce Boudreau Apr 9 • Curt James Apr 16 • Denim & Lace Apr 23 • Lockharts Apr 30 • Bruce Boudreau May 7 • Diego & Edith Soda, water, popcorn, and snacks for sale, free ice/cups, BYOB, 50/50 door prizes. DANCES • 7-10PM Mar 29 • The Cruisers • $12 Apr 5 • Rewind • $10 Apr 12 • Retro Rockers • $10 Apr 18 • Texas Storm • $8 Apr 20 • Curt James & Bruce Boudreau • $8 Apr 25 • Ron Moshier • $8 May 2 • Steven May & Southern Knights • $8 May 5 • Cinco De Mayo - Les Canto • $8 Soda, water, popcorn, and snacks for sale, free ice/cups, 50/50 door prizes. Weekly Happy Hours and Dances continue through the Summer. Follow the Parks Calendar at WinterTexanTimes.com for more. DOOR PRIZES!! Neighborhood Kitchen Presents $7.00 at the Door Pre-sale Tickets Available at Biscuits & Gravy for only $5.00 Dusty Boots?.. Join our FREE dance class for a refresh March 23, 2024 at 4:00 PM Saturday, March 30, 2024 7:00 PM-10:00 PM Consuelo’s Event Center 935WBus 83 Donna, TX LocatedinfrontoftheValVerdeFleaMarket (956) 733-1671 CALENDAR PARKS For more information, photos and tour schedules visit Wintertainers TM at www.wintertexantimes.com www.wintertexantimes.com tainers Winter TM 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, March 27 Wednesday Breakfast - Bentsen Grove Resort, Palmview, 7:30am. All You Can Eat Breakfast - Enchanted Valley Ranch, Mission, 7:30-9am, $8pp. 7300 Monroe. Plus Square Dance - Tropic Star RV Resort, Pharr, 10am-Noon, With call Joe Saltel, $5pp. Burger Fry and Jam - Chimney Park, Mission, 11:30am, 1/2 lb. burgers are $7pp, homestyle baked beans, starting at 11:30 a.m. Music Jam starts at 1 p.m. 4224 S. Conway 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 - Valley View Estates, Mission, 1-3pm, 2100 Vernon. Karaoke - Bluebonnet RV Park, Mission, 3-6pm, Open to the public. No charge, dinner served for fee. Social Hour - Siesta Retirement Village Park, Weslaco, 3-4:30pm, Diego & Edith, pass the hat. Come join us and dance to your favorite songs. Kitchen open, free ice. Office: 956-969-3740. 2712 S. International Blvd. 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 - Aladdin Villas, Mission, 4-6pm, Solitaire, pass the hat. Concessions. Dance - Tip O’ Texas RV Resort, Pharr, 7-10pm, Steven May and the Southern Knights, $8pp. BYOB. Main Hall. 101 E. Sioux Rd. Thursday, March 28 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. Bluegrass Jam - Lamplighter Park, Palmview, 9am, Come enjoy some great music. 2240 S. Bentsen Palm Dr. 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 Village Park, Weslaco, 1-3pm, Open to all musicians. Office: 956-9693740. 2712 S. International Blvd. Jam Session - Victoria Palms Resort, Donna, 6-9pm, Free. Jam - Dream Valley Ranch, Mission, 6-8pm, Public welcome. 2401 N. Abram Rd. See PARKS pg. 10 e k s s , h d e s o l k s l 1 t
MARCH 27, 2024 www.wintertexantimes.com 10 WINTER TEXAN TIMES Division of Wilder’s Corporation SUMMER DANCES • EVERY FRIDAY 7-10 PM $8 (Unless Noted) CLIP AND SAVE 501 W. Owassa Rd. Pharr, Texas 78577 956-787-6538 FOR INFO/TICKETS Apr. 5 • Texas Storm • $0 “Summer Season Kickoff” Apr. 12 • Diego & Edith Apr. 19 • Ron Moshier Apr. 26 • Southern Vibes May 3 • Steven May May 10 • Sweetwater • $4 Ladies/$8 Men “Mother’s Day Special” May 17 • Wally Garza & Texas Blood May 24 • Burnin’ Ember • $6 “Memorial Day Special” May 31 • Texas Storm June 7 • Diego & Edith June 14 • Southern Vibes • $8 Ladies/$4 Men “Father’s Day Special” CREDIT CARDS NOW ACCEPTED June 21 • Howlers June 28 • Steven May July 5 • Sweetwater • $4 “Honoring the 4th of July” July 12 • Curt James July 19 • Burnin’ Ember July 26 • Texas Storm Aug. 2 • Diego & Edith Aug. 9 • Wally Garza & Texas Blood Aug. 16 • Southern Vibes Aug. 23 • Steven May Aug. 30 • Sweetwater • $6 “Labor Day Special” Sep. 6 • Curt James Sep. 13 • Night Howlers Sep. 20 • Texas Storm Sep. 27 • Diego & Edith 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 RC Cars Fridays • 1:30 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. Root Beer and Orange Cream Floats - Split Rail RV Park, Mission, 6pm, $2pp. Park Hall. Last one for the season. 513 N. Los Ebanos Rd. Bible Study and Prayer - Bibleville Conference Grounds, Alamo, 7pm, In the Fellowship Hall. Friday, March 29 Blood Drive - Greengate Grove, Palmview, 8:30-11:20am, Saving a life is a wonderful feeling! 2135 S. Bentsen Palm Dr. Rock and Roll Jam - Paradise Resort Estates, Pharr, 12:30-2:30pm, Snack Bar opens at 11:30 a.m. Lunch served 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. RC Cars - Kenwood RV Park, La Feria, 1:30pm. Happy Hour - Dixieland MH Park, Harlingen, 3:30-5pm, Bruce Boudreau, $5pp 50/50 drawing. Fish Dinner - Mission West RV Park, Palmview, 4:30-5:30pm, Fish with slaw, french fries, and tea or coffee. Karaoke - Alamo Palms MH & RV Park, 5-6:50pm, Tampico Hall. Country Jam - Hidden Valley Ranch RV & MH Park, Mission, 5:30pm. Karaoke - Tip O’ Texas RV Resort, Pharr, 7-9pm, Audience participation. Donation. Main Hall. 101 E. Sioux Rd. Dance - Texas Trails RV Resort, Pharr, 7pm, Sweetwater, $8pp. Dance - Bit-O-Heaven RV Park, Donna, 7-10pm, The Cruisers - rock, $12pp. Entertainment - Split Rail RV Park, Mission, 7-10pm, Curt James, $8pp. End of the season blow out. 513 N. Los Ebanos Rd. Dance - Casa del Sol, Donna, 7pm, The Howlers, $8pp. Saturday, March 30 Breakfast - Chimney Park, Mission, 7-9am, Full breakfast, $7pp. 4224 S. Conway Ave. Saturday Lunch - Greengate Grove, Palmview, 11am-12:30pm. 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. Jam Sessions - Eastgate RV & MH Park, Harlingen, 1-3pm, South Hall. 2801 E. Harrison Ave. 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. Entertainment - Enchanted Valley Ranch, Mission, 7-10pm, Mike Flores Southern Vibes, $8pp. Sunday, March 31 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. Bible Studies & Prayer - Bibleville Conference Grounds, Alamo, 9am, In the Activity Hall. Church & Bible Study - Alamo Rec-Veh Park, 9am. Church Service - Alamo Palms MH & RV Park, 9-10am, Main Hall. Church Service - Sleepy Valley Ranch Resort, Mission, 9:1010:10am. 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. PARKS From pg. 9 For more information, photos and tour schedules visit Wintertainers TM at www.wintertexantimes.com www.wintertexantimes.com tainers Winter TM
11 WINTER TEXAN TIMES www.wintertexantimes.com MARCH 27, 2024 Wednesday Breakfast • 7:30am Last Breakfast Mar 27 Thursday Lunches • 11am Last Lunch Mar 28 MEALS 956-585-0703 1645 S Bentsen Palm Drive • Palmview Paula McSpadden Activity Director ALL EVENTS OPEN TO THE PUBLIC Thank you for a great season! See you next fall! CASA DEL SOL Thank you to all who attended our entertainment and dances this season. We appreciate your support and look forward to seeing you in the fall. Craig&Karyl Ruhde, Activities Directors 400N. Val Verde Rd. - Donna, TX78537 956-464-9024 1048 N. Alamo Rd. • Alamo, TX 78516 • Office: 956-783-5008 CHURCH SERVICE Sundays • 9 am Mar 29 • 11 am • Good Friday Service Mar 31 • 9am • Easter Service Thank you all for making this a great season! Church Service - Bentsen Palm RV Park, Mission, 10am-Noon, Come for church and stay for lunch and fellowship. 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 Service - Bibleville Conference Grounds, Alamo, 10:30am, In the Auditorium with Chaplain Dwight LaPine teaching. Church Service - Pleasant Valley Resort, Mission, 10:30-11:30am, Rec Hall. Traditional Lutheran service. All are welcome. Easter Dinner Potluck - Split Rail RV Park, Mission, 1pm, This will be our final gathering for the season! Gospel Jam - Lamplighter Park, Palmview, 5:30pm, 2240 S. Bentsen Palm Dr. Movies - Paradise Resort Estates, Pharr, 7-9:30pm, Free Sunday Night Movies - See RGVActivities.com for movie title each week. Snack bar is open at 6:15. Hot dogs available. Tuesday, April 2 Taco Tuesday - Sleepy Valley Ranch Resort, Mission, 11:30am1pm, All you care to eat, $8pp. Happy Hour - Bit-O-Heaven RV Park, Donna, 3-5pm, Bruce Boudreau, pass the hat. Wednesday, April 3 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. Happy Hour - Sleepy Valley Ranch Resort, Mission, 4-6pm, Live music rotating each week. Snacks for sale as well as our homemade pizza. Thursday, April 4 Jam - Dream Valley Ranch, Mission, 6-8pm, Public welcome. 2401 N. Abram Rd. For more information, photos and tour schedules visit Wintertainers TM at www.wintertexantimes.com www.wintertexantimes.com tainers Winter TM The Friends of Quinta Mazatlán are celebrating their 18th annual Moon Over Mazatlán on Wednesday, April 10 at the urban sanctuary. The evening under the stars works to raise funds for the Center for Urban Ecology supporting education, ecotourism, and the environment. The Quinta Mazatlán 2024 Legacy Award celebrates Vantage Bank, Loring Cook Foundation, and the James W. and Kathleen Collins Foundation. Executive Director, Colleen Hook shares, “We are recognizing a tremendous trifecta of family, friends and business committed to the health and wellbeing of the region.” Chairs Sally Fraustro Guerra and Val LaMantia have planned a fun evening including dancing, live music, fabulous food, drinks, and great company. The country themed Moon over Mazatlan is featuring Bo Garza and the Texas Dezire band. Help support the future growth of the Center for Urban Ecology at Quinta Mazatlan by calling for sponsorship through the Friends of Quinta Mazatlan board members or Colleen Hook at Quinta Mazatlán, (956) 681-3370. Quinta Mazatlán celebrates Moon Over Mazatlán The Friends of Quinta Mazatlan Board of Directors invite you to Moon over Mazatlan. Courtesy photo
MARCH 27, 2024 www.wintertexantimes.com 12 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 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 During the December-March season, the ESquiers band and musician-jammers entertained at seven parks in the RGV playing classic rock & roll music from the 1950’s-1970’s. The schedule was as follows: Mondays, Enchanted Valley in Mission, Tuesdays, Paradise Park in McAllen, Wednesdays, we alternated between Mission Bell and Wagon City North in Mission, Thursdays, Bentsen Grove Resort in Rock & Roll Jammin’ in the RGV Jammin’ in the RGV with Tony Ozark February Jam at Enchanted Valley in Mission with the ESquiers Band. On Stage, left to right, Cathy Squier (Executive Manager), Gilles LaFlamme, Cliff Squier, RK Welander, Don Leet. On the floor are the Jammer musicians, left to right, Jerry Colborn, Tom Soucek, Peggy Soucek, John Bennett, Bill Swartz, Susie Schutz, Linda Pino, Julie Houck, Dean Cato, Barry Brett, and Tony Ozark. Photo by Tony Ozark Palmview, Fridays, at Paradise Resort Estates in Pharr and Saturdays, and once per month at Chimney Park in Mission. This article will focus on every park except Paradise Estates which was featured in the March 20th edition of the Winter Texan Times. The ‘head’ of each jam starts with the renowned ESquiers Band named after Cliff (esteemed drummer) and Cathy (executive manager) Squier (Canada). In addition to Cliff, RK Welander (Iowa) who sings and plays bass and rhythm guitar, is the other band member who performs weekly at every park. The r e m a i n i n g band members perform based on their schedule. Gilles L a F l a m m e (Canada) and Jerry Spanhanks (Minnesota) share the lead guitar and vocalist roles. Claude Babin (Canada) and Jim Hansen (Minnesota) share playing the keyboard. Don Leet (Minnesota) and Lenny Falcone (Texas) share playing bass guitar with both also singing. Al Cully (Missouri), Don Leet, Roy Schroedl (Wisconsin), Mark Schwendner (Michigan), and Shirley Spanhanks (Minnesota) contribute by playing rhythm guitar/ singing. The 10 jammers who consistently performed weekly by singing and March Performance at Bentsen Grove Resort in Palmview. On stage, is the ESquiers Band, left to right, Jim Hansen, RK Welander, Cathy Squier (Executive Manager), Cliff Squier, Gilles LaFlamme, Jerry Spanhanks, and Shirley Spanhanks. On the floor, left to right, Tony Ozark, LeRoy Jenkins, Larry Christensen, Don Leet, Peggy Soucek, Jerry Colborn, Gerald Latsch, and Barry Brett. Photo by Tony Ozark
13 WINTER TEXAN TIMES www.wintertexantimes.com MARCH 27, 2024 50 Acre RV Park Lazy Palms Ranch, it’s what life is all about. Where the sound of silence is still heard and where the country’s natural splendor has no bounds. Lazy Palms Ranch is the R.V. Ranch you’ll want to call home for a day, a week or for the season. ACTIVITIES: Shuffleboard • Horseshoes • Bocce Ball • Card Games • Live Entertainment Bake and Craft Sales • Pot Lucks • Dominoes • Poker • Pool Tables • Bingo www.lazypalmsranch.com manager@lazypalmsranch.com (956) 383-1020 FEATURES: Large Rv & Park Model Sites • Bird/Natural Life Year Round Game Room • Pool Tables • Walking Trails • Exercise Equipment Pet Friendly • Church Services on Sundays • Pool & Spa Stocked Fishing Pond 50+ Park Community 35100 Lazy Palm Dr. Edinburg, TX 78541 Spacious Country Living At It’s Best! Come Check Us Out! SPECIAL OFFER 1 Year Lease $1,000 Exp. 5/31/2024 Our Guests Make The Difference! most with personal guitar accompaniment included John Bennett, Ann Butler, Jerry Colborn, Julie Houck, Gerald Latsch, Joy Norris, Tony Ozark, Susie Schutz, Peggy Soucek, and Bill Swartz. There were 7 musicians who performed weekly limited to one or two parks: Mary Bend, Ryllis Blackwell, Mike and Tesa Heldenbrand, Craig Kay, LeRoy Jenkins, and Bill Ward. There were an additional 21 musicians who occasionally performed: Steve Allen, Carolyn Brunk, Tim Cameron, Dean Cato, Larry Christensen, Jean Closson, Suzanne Craig, Rich Hogg, Dennis and Diane James, Patrick LeBlanc, Judy Mindon, Dawn Mundt, Ron Norbie, Linda Pino, Randy Plunkett, Dean Schilling, Tom Soucek, Debbie Stovall, Bob Taylor, Mickey Travis. This week, I will feature three musicians. Jerry Colborn lives full time with his wife Chris in Mission. His musical career started at age 12 playing drums, bass guitar, and rhythm guitar while starting his first band in 1966. He sang in choirs in high school and on Christian TV in New Mexico with the Holy Highway band. Jerry played with two members of the Firebulls group who had the number one hit, Sugar Shack. He also played with many praise and worship groups in churches located in Colorado, New Mexico, Oklahoma and currently here in Mission. Jerry plays in RGV jams at Wagon City, Greengate Grove, Enchanted Valley, Bentsen Grove Resort and others. He started the Now and Then rock and roll jam at Greengate Grove this season. He also keeps busy giving guitar/bass lessons. Jerry loves music and performing for others. Don Leet and his wife Bev live in Bemidji, Minnesota when not in the Valley. His musical pursuits started at age six. He currently sings while playing either his rhythm guitar, bass guitar or his banjo. He was motivated by his father to follow music, who sang together in a church choir. Don also sang in high school choral and musicals. In college he sang in varsity men’s choirs. He also sang in barbershop and quartet groups in the 1970’s. Don sang in a Bemidji choral group for 20 years. He also played in a three-piece church band. He currently plays in many jams in the RGV and is a part of three stage bands. Don performs for many non-profit organizations including churches, nursing homes, senior centers, and Bemidji State University. Don enjoys singing and playing music as this is his most satisfying hobby. Claude Babin from Ontario Canada followed his passion for music at age 12. He started performing with a bass guitar and now performs with his piano, organ or keyboard. Claude was motivated by his grandmother to pursue music as she was a pianist. Claude self-taught himself to play piano on his grandmother’s piano. Claude performs with cover bands and local musicians in Canada while performing at many jams in the RGV. Claude performs for the passion and love of music which is a language of its own. January Performance at Wagon City North in Mission. Band on stage, left to right, Mike Schwendner, RK Welander, Cliff Squier, and Gilles LaFlamme. On floor, back row, left to right, Mike and Tesa Heldenbrand, Jerry Colburn, Barry Brett, and Bob Taylor. Front row, left to right, Tony Ozark, Mary Bend, Ryllis Blackwell, Don Leet, Peggy Soucek, Susie Schutz, and Bill Swartz. Photo by Tony Ozark
MARCH 27, 2024 www.wintertexantimes.com 14 WINTER TEXAN TIMES 2407 E. Griffin Pkwy. – Mission, TX GENERAL DENTISTRY EXCEPTIONAL CARE SINCE 1982 Now Accepting Allwell from Superior Healthplan New Patient Exams only $159 • Includes all necessary x-rays • Oral Cancer Screening • Intra-oral Photos • Comprehensive Exam • Periodontal Screening No Dental Insurance? NO PROBLEM! www.sharylanddentalcare.net 956-581-2773 For dental care you can trust and have confidence in Come See Us At Sharyland Dental Care 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 U.S. TOURS Go...With Jo! Tours & Travel SOLDOUT InTheFootstepsofPaul (12Days) April19,2024 (23MealsIncluded) $5,035pp With Greek Isle Cruise (Prices are per person, double occupancy) OVER-SEAS TOURS MEXICO TOURS Houston Quilt (4 Days/3 Nights) Oct. 30, 2024 (3 Meals Included) $TBA PaintedChurchesw/PolkaMass (2Days) Aug. 31, 2024 (3Meals Included) $TBA (Prices are per person, double occupancy) SanMiguel deAllende (6 Days) July 2, 2024 (6 Meals Included) $TBA (Prices are per person, double occupancy) Safe Travels! Unfortunately, for those of us who live here year-round, it is time for us to say goodbye to those of you who are going back to your summer homes. You have been an inspiration to so many of us. You have brought to us the joy of sharing our knowledge and our talents. I personally have learned from you that it is truly so much better and so rewarding to give rather than receive. Let me tell you a little story of how I have followed the example so many of you have set for us. Just before Christmas, one of the clubs of which I am a member received an anonymous donation to help with our Christmas project which is to take a child from a deprived family on a shopping spree for Christmas gifts for their family. With such a large donation added to my club’s donation, it was obvious that the number of children who would be able to enjoy Christmas was going to double … now it would be 100 children instead of the 50 that we have originally planned on. Since each child needed to have an adult club member with them to help with the shopping, the club needed more volunteers. And so, I signed up to help. Our local Target opened early just for these shoppers and off I went with the young lady who was assigned to me. She carefully selected a special gift for her parents and her older siblings as well as a stuffed toy for a younger sibling. Then her inSetting examples of caring and sharing terest turned to the school supplies she needed. All the time I was tallying her purchases. As she came close to spending the total she had been given, I reminded her “You haven’t bought anything for yourself.” Very carefully, she began to inspect ankle boots that appealed to her. Now I really felt that a 13-year-old should not choose anything with a heel even though it really wasn’t more than maybe an inch and a half, or at most two. However, I then remembered how at about that same age, I had been given money and a bus ticket to go into town by myself to choose a pair of shoes. And you guessed it, I also chose a pair of shoes that were a little too grown up for my age. Yes, all of us at that age want to be grown up. I fell in love with my charge and decided right then and there that I would follow the example so many of you have set for us. Both you and she cared about others. I would take my talent at teaching, and I would volunteer to be a one-on-one tutor to help children who needed help in reading. What a joy has come into my life because of the sharing of my small contribution. I eagerly look forward to the one time a week when I contribute my talent to help children who live in a local housing project as they struggle to learn and read English. Most of these children only speak Spanish at home … consequently they are thinking in Spanish and reading in English. It must be very difficult. I also have volunteered at my church to help prepare the teenagers for their confirmation. Everyone has a talent. Along with that talent, often comes a desire to share. A desire to be of value, to be able to contribute to the world around us. Please enjoy your summer and return next year to share with us your love and your talents. You are all very special. Thank you. Take care. Enjoy your summer. And come back to us. We need you. Thank you for such a great season. We love having you here. See you next fall!
15 WINTER TEXAN TIMES www.wintertexantimes.com MARCH 27, 2024 TRANSPORT • Sales & Installations • Vinyl Skirting & Tie Downs • Custom Steps made of Wood & Metal • Door & Windows • Plumbing & Electric • Used Mobile Homes Sales Financing Available petecotransport@gmail.com Ph: (956) 787-2847 or (956) 787-0413 We Buy Mobile Homes 2911 N Cesar Chavez Rd. San Juan, TX 78589 Family Owned & Operated Over 30 Years Supply &Hardware Mobile Home Special Orders Available Ask about our daily Manager Specials! PETECO, INC. 2911 N. Cesar Chavez Rd. San Juan, TX 78589 956-787-2847 petecotransport@gmail.com We Do Tie-Down Certification SAVE 10% OFF Your Entire Purchase When You Bring In This Ad *Conditions apply, see store for details. Offer expires March 31, 2024. found herself with several quilts after a park charity group disbanded. She decided to donate them to the scholarship program for the high school seniors. Scholarship Quilt co-chairperson Cindy Biggerstaff said that it continued to grow because Audrey would often sit in the hall to make her quilts. Residents would walk over and say, “I want to help you!” .... so, the group just got bigger and bigger. Although the sewing hobby here is thriving today, it has become fairly expensive. Without labor, Cindy estimates each 60x90-inch quilt costs approximately $350 to make. (That includes $165 just to have it quilted on a long-arm machine. The remaining amount includes material, patterns, batting, and special thread, as well as specially designed labels.) “I think what drives the quilters to continue working on these projects is not only their love of quilting,” Cindy said, “but, seeing the students’ faces light up when they receive them.” Much thought has been given to selecting the perfect quilt for each student, according to Cindy. Based on student essays, the Scholarship Committee might match a student’s favorite color, a particular hobby, or a student’s career goal with a pattern. For example, a student planning a nursing career might get a quilt with crosses and hearts, an architect – a quilt with houses, a border patrol agent – an outdoorsy looking quilt. “At the end of the reception, when they wrap themselves in those quilts,” she said, “it touches our hearts.” Quilts Leave their Mark “These quilts are valued by my students because someone has sewn something so special for them,” school counselor Erica Ramos said. “The quality of the material, the craftsmanship, the love -- it all comes through in each quilt.” At the scholarship reception, students said they enjoyed meeting the quilters who designed and sewed their gifts. “That each one of the quilt donors created a quality piece of craftsmanship for a student, and the Scholarship Committee members took the time to match the fabric and design to the student’s personality, … it means so much,” Erica said. “The students can’t help but feel seen, heard and, quite honestly, loved.” Sometimes getting a scholarship quilt has led to family rivalry -- in a good way, the counselor said. She felt Bryan Cardoza’s comments at the reception best demonstrated that. “My older brother received his blanket [from a quilter], and now I finally got one!” he said. “And it’s all mine! My brother would never share. He took his blanket with him to College Station. Now I can’t wait to join him with my own blanket, so we can match. But mine is better!” Even non-quilters have benefited by being a park resident who wears an Alamo Palms’ name badge at a fast-food restaurant, a grocery store and even at a doctor’s office. “We’re recognized,” Cindy said, “It’s not uncommon for them to hear, ‘Hey! I know Alamo Palms. I got a quilt from you’!” Be sure to visit our website for a web exclusive story about a recipient that returned to PSJA to help others. QUILTS From pg. 7 At Alamo Palm’s RV Resort’s Scholarship Committee reception, 21 PSJAMemorial (Alamo) high school seniors wrap themselves in quilts that were presented to themby 21 Alamo Palms’ quilters.
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTczOTk5Mg==