Golf ballot Pg. 20 Winter Texan TIMES Serving Winter Texans From Mission To South Padre Island Since 1987 Vol. 38, No. 5 © 2024 www.wintertexantimes.com Wednesday, November 13, 2024 INDEX Events Calendar p 4 Reunions p 6 Parks Calendar p 8 WintertainersTM p 8 On The Road p 12 Taste of the Valley p 13 Business Guide p 17 Classifieds p 17 Coupon Index p 19 Rina’s Ramblings See RAMBLINGS pg. 15 I hope everyone is having a great time so far this season. I know there is plenty to do in the parks, and in the Rio Grande Valley, that I am sure you are staying busy, discovering new places, and making new friends. I follow quite a few parks on Facebook, so I get to see some of the activities that happen in those parks. I get to see the fun everyone is having – dancing, swimming, eating – and taking part in things such as Veterans Day. It was beautiful, and sorrowful, to see pictures of the small table with an empty chair that several parks posted. One park posted the full meaning of the setting of the table. It’s meant to remember those who were taken as Prisoners of War (POW) or were Missing in Action (MIA). It’s used in other ceremonies as well like Memorial Day and other POW/MIA ceremonies. There are also various The Senior Ambassadors are looking for singers this season. An open invitation is being issued for local and Winter Texan male singers to come and sing with the Senior Ambassadors. Don’t be shy. All skill levels are welcome. If you enjoy singing, you are welcome to attend any of the practice sessions to find out how you can join. For over 35 years, Winter Texans and Valley men have joined voices – tenors, baritones and basses – ‘to create melodious, rich sounds, taking their See SENIOR pg. 16 Senior Ambassadors: Voices needed, rehearsals underway The Senior Ambassadors. Courtesy photo Most golf courses, but not all, have signature holes, a hole where challenging meets aesthetic beauty. Most of these lean more toward scenery and difficulty, but they can certainly have a mixture of both. Today, we begin a three-part series looking at some of the amazing signature holes across the Rio Grande Valley See GOLF pg. 10 Find some holes worth playing at Upper Valley Golf Courses Shary Municipal Golf Course. Photo by Carina Brunson
NOVEMBER 13, 2024 www.wintertexantimes.com 2 WINTER TEXAN TIMES 1217 N. Conway, Mission, Texas 78572 (956) 580-7800 www.wintertexantimes.com © Copyright 2024-2025 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 EVR hosts benefit for Penitas Pantry Enchanted Valley Ranch will be hosting a daylong music event on Tuesday, November 19, from Noon until 10 p.m. All proceeds from this event will be donated to the Penitas Food Pantry. Penitas Food Pantry is a local food pantry which currently serves over 400 families per month. The food pantry is a church operated, not-for-profit food pantry which depends 100 percent on your generous donations and volunteers to provide nutrition to people in need. Monies will be used to stock up the pantry to meet the growing needs of the community’s use of the pantry. EVR, and the other Martin parks, have always helped out the pantry by volunteering their time. In fact, volunteers helped the pantry construct a new, larger, building this past season to help better serve the community. The admission cost is $20 and allows you to stay all day to listen to music. The following entertainers are scheduled to perform: Curt James, Leslie Blasing, The Valley Girls, Tony Perez, The Howlers, Southern Harmony, CanAm and The Lockharts. All entertainers are volunteering their time and talent to the event. The park will also be serving food and beverages (soda and water). You are allowed to BYOB. If you have any questions regarding the event, please call Enchanted Valley Ranch at (956) 519-8597. VFW Post 2410 launches Toys for Tots drive VFW Post 2410 is proud to announce its partnership with Toys for Tots, serving as the central location for this year’s toy collection and distribution. They are currently reaching out to families in need within their community to sign up for the program, ensuring that every child can experience the joy of receiving gifts this holiday season. As the holiday season approaches, many families face challenges that can make it difficult to provide gifts for their children. VFW Post 2410 is dedicated to helping alleviate some of this burden by providing toys to local children. We encourage families who are struggling to provide gifts this Christmas to reach out and register for this program. If you know of any families that could benefit from the drive, tell them to contact VFW Post 2410 directly at (760) 201-9277 or via email at harlingen.tx@toysfortots. org. Their team is ready to assist with the registration process and answer any questions you may have. They believe that every child deserves a magical holiday, and with the support of the community, they can make this possible. Join them in spreading the word and helping families in need during this special time of year. If you would like to help, please contact them on how you can help them give a helping hand to families in the community. Courtesy photo
3 WINTER TEXAN TIMES www.wintertexantimes.com NOVEMBER 13, 2024 HIDALGO COUNTY 1101 East Business 83 • Donna, TX 1 1/2 miles West of Don-Wes Flea Market www.galvaninsuranceagency.com *Premiums subject to carrier underwriting. Rates subject to change. *$284.00per year. Conditions Apply. As Low as We Also Offer Flood Coverage Call or Come See Us 956-464-2886 We Also Insure: Park Models Motorcycles “Casitas” Travel Trailers Motor Homes Golf Carts 5th Wheels Autos And more... MOBILE HOME INSURANCE Basic and Comprehensive Plans Mexico Auto Insurance Available The Museum of South Texas History will host the Sunday Speaker Series presentation “The Alamo Train Crash of 1940: From class podcast project to book” with Juan P. Carmona and Taylor Seaver De La Fuente at 2 p.m. November 17. What began as a podcast project with Donna High School’s Mexican American Studies class, has now blossomed into a book project. The deadly Alamo train crash of 1940 occurred when a train collided with a truckload of farmworkers on their way to work in the fields. The crash resulted in the deaths of 29 people and the emotional scarring of all those involved. It would also result in transportation safety changes in Texas. The families affected by the crash were confronted with struggles and accomplishments as they dealt with the loss of family members and their breadwinners. Carmona—author of the “Alton Bus Crash”—and co-author Seaver De La Fuente, who narrated the podcast, will share their research and share the history of this seminal event. Carmona is a social studies teacher at Donna High School and a dual enrollment history instructor through South Texas College. He graduated with honors from the American Military University with a master’s degree in American history and was awarded the 2018 James F. Veninga Outstanding Teaching Humanities Award by Humanities Texas. He is a member of the NACCS Tejas Foco Committee for Mexican American Studies K-12 and the Social Studies Coordinator for the Rio Grande Valley Coalition for Mexican American Studies. Carmona is also a member of the award-winning Refusing to Forget Public History Project. His primary field of research is the history of South Texas borderlands. He is the co-founder of Nosotrxs Por El Valle. Seaver De La Fuente is a Rio Grande Valley native from a family of Mexican and Mexican American migrant farmworkers. Her current graduate research at the University of Texas–Rio Grande Valley focuses on the evolution of Mexican American studies and the civil rights contributions of Chicanx youth within the RGV. Sunday Speaker Series is included in the fee for regular museum admission. FRIENDS of MOSTHistory are admitted free as a benefit of FRIENDship and must present their FRIENDship card at See SPEAKERS pg. 12 Sunday Speakers Series highlights Alamo Train Crash of 1940 Juan P. Carmona. Photo courtesy of MOSTH Taylor Seaver De La Fuente. Photo courtesy of MOSTH
NOVEMBER 13, 2024 www.wintertexantimes.com 4 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 King Ranch (1 Day) Jan. 30, Feb. 13, Mar. 6, 2025 ���������������������������������������������������������TBA King Ranch Farm (1 Day) Feb. 20, 2025 ������������������������������������������������������������������������������TBA Eagle Pass (2 Days) Dec. 10, 2024 �������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������$235 New Mexico - Religious Faith Based Pilgrimage (7 Days) May, 2025 �����TBA (Prices are per person, double occupancy) Christmas in San Miguel De Allende (6 Days) �����������������������������������������������������������TBA Monterrey Tres (3 Days) Dec. 30, 2024 NYE Dinner Dance ���������������������������������$510 Monterrey Tres (3 Days) Nov. 29, 2024 �������������������������������������������������������������������������������$450 Mexico City & Puebla Pilgrimage (7 Days) Bus and Plane �������������������������������TBA (Prices are per person, double occupancy) U.S. TOURS MEXICO BUS TOURS Go...With Jo! Tours & Travel We Take Care of You! Growers Farmers Market at 9 a.m. The park is located at 201 N. 1st St. The event is held every Saturday. November 16 – The McAllen Farmers 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. November 16 – Faith Markets will be holding their Grateful Hearts Market from 6 to 10 p.m. at Crunch Fitness, in Edinburg, 1201 S. McColl Rd. For more information on their markets and locations, find them on Facebook. November 16 – University Drafthouse Beer Fest will be held at Promenade Park Amphitheater, 201 W. McIntyre St., in Edinburg. Tickets are $60, or $25 for designated driver. More information can be found online at udhbeerfest. com. November 16 – The Craft Beer and Wings Festival will be held at the South Padre Island Convention Center, 7355 Padre Blvd., from 2 to 10 p.m. November 16 – Harlingen hosts their Downtown at Sundown every third Saturday of the month from 6 to 10 p.m. The event features live music and more. It is held on Jackson Street in historic downtown Harlingen. November 16 – Bentsen-RGV State Park presents Star Stories, which requires a reservation, at 6:30 p.m. Call ahead to confirm program schedule and details at (956) 584-9156. Bentsen-RGV State Park is located at 2800 South Bentsen Palm Dr., in Mission. November 16 – UTRGV Arts presents Dian Walters, soprano and Michael Ensign, piano, at 7 p.m. in Brownsville, 1 W. University Blvd. Doors open at 6 p.m. For a full calendar of events and tickets, visit them online at www. utrgv.edu/arts/. November 17 – The South Padre Island Farmers Market is held at The Shores, 8605 Padre Blvd., every Sunday from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Shop for fresh produce, meats, cheese, juices and more. To see this event and others, visit https://www.sopadre.com/listing/ south-padre-island-farmers-market/1099/. November 17 – Buena Vida Farmers Market will be held from 2 to 4:30 p.m., every Sunday, at Bannworth Park, 1822 N. Shary Rd., in Mission. Pre-orders can be made online at BuenaVidaFarmersMarket.com. For vendor info, call (512) 554-9713. November 17 – UTRGV Arts presents Saxophone Chamber Ensemble at 3 p.m. in Edinburg, UTRGV Performing Arts Complex, 1201 W. University Dr. For a full calendar of events and tickets, visit them online at www.utrgv. edu/arts/. November 19 – UTRGV presents their Mariachi Fall Concert. The event begins at 7 p.m. in Edinburg, UTRGV Performing Arts Complex, 1201 W. University Dr. Admission is $6. For a full calendar of events and tickets, visit them online at www.utrgv.edu/arts/. November 19 – The UTRGV-Brownsville Flute Studio presents a recital performed by the students, including pieces for flute solo with piano. It will be held at 7 p.m., 1 W. University Blvd. Tickets not required for this event. For a full calendar of events, visit them online at www.utrgv.edu/arts/. November 21 – The Weslaco Elks Lodge #2057, 201 S. Border Ave., in Weslaco, will host their annual Christmas Benefit Rockin’ the House featuring Steven May, Curt James, Bruce Boudreau, Tom Hiles, Bob Buttermore and more. All proceeds go to local children in need. Public invited. Dinner and drinks available. Doors open at 5:30 p.m., the dance and entertainment will begin at 7 p.m. in the big hall. Cost is $5. November 21 – UTRGV Symphony Orchestra performs SaintSaens and Tchaikovsky at 7 p.m. at the UTRGV Performing Arts Complex, 1201 W. University Dr., EVENTS CALENDAR November 13 – Gelman Stained Glass Museum presents Winter Texan Day with $5 off their regular $20 admission. The event will be held from11 a.m. to 6 p.m. It’s a self-guided visit that includes a digital map compatible with smart phones. The museum is located at 411 Virgen de San Juan Blvd., in San Juan. Call (956) 601-0838, or visit www.gelmanmuseum.org, for more information. November 14 – You can see the UTRGV Symphonic Winds and Wind Orchestra perform at the TSC Performing Arts Center in Brownsville, 90 Taylor Ave. General admission is $6, and event begins at 7 p.m. For a full calendar of events, visit them online at www. utrgv.edu/arts/. November 15-17 – Harlingen Community Center presents Steel Magnolias by Robert Harling. Friday and Saturday showtimes are at 7:30 p.m. Sunday is a matinee time of 2:30 p.m. Adult tickets are $20 and sold online at www.hctvalleystars.org. Any remaining tickets can be purchased at the door on performance days. The box office opens one hour before curtain. Winter Texan season passes are available. November 15-16 – UTRGV Arts Opera Theater will perform “Angelo’s Restaurant” at the UTRGV Performing Arts Complex in Edinburg, 1201 W. University Dr. Event starts at 7 p.m. Admission is $6. For a full calendar of events and tickets, visit them online at www.utrgv.edu/arts/. November 16 – 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. November 16 – Firemen’s Park in McAllen will host the Growing See EVENTS pg. 15
5 WINTER TEXAN TIMES www.wintertexantimes.com NOVEMBER 13, 2024 proudly presents November 8, 9, 10 and 15, 16, 17 Friday & Saturday 7:30 p.m. Sunday Matinee 2:30 p.m. Adult $20 • Children $10 Tickets are sold online. Any remaining seats can be purchased at the door on performance days. Box Office opens one hour before curtain. Use the QR code below for access to the HCT website. Harlingen Community Theatre 1209 Fair Park Blvd. www.hctvalleystars.org by Robert Harling The Salvation Army Red Kettle returns providing love beyond Christmas The Salvation Army is excited to announce the return of its annual Red Kettle campaign in McAllen, spreading joy and the festive spirit of Christmas. As The Salvation Army’s primary fundraising initiative, the Red Kettles play a vital role in providing life-changing programs and services throughout the year. These programs include food assistance, shelter for people experiencing homelessness, emergency financial assistance, youth programs, disaster response and more. “From its humble origins in 1891 when a Salvation Army Captain used a crab pot to collect funds in San Francisco, the Red Kettle Campaign has grown to become one of the most recognized charitable initiatives worldwide,” said Major Frankie Zuniga of The Salvation Army in McAllen. “The funds raised in the Red Kettle will serve as a lifeline in our community, offering essential assistance, including nourishment, shelter, and vital social services to people during their greatest need.” From the beginning of November until Christmas Eve, red kettles will be stationed outside various stores and local businesses in McAllen from Monday to Saturday. Last year, The Salvation Army successfully raised $110,000 through the campaign, and this season, they are aiming to raise $175,000 to support yearround services in the community. “We’re excited to be once again kicking off our Christmas campaign and are immensely grateful for the spirit of giving in our community and the unwavering support we receive from our generous donors and corporate partners,” added Zuniga. “Together, we can ignite hope and provide support to those in our community who are in the most need.” The Salvation Army is seeking volunteers to ring the bells at the Red Kettle. Sign up by visiting www.RegistertoRing.com and following the prompts to select a date and time to ring or call The Salvation Army at (956) 682-1468. Visit www.salvationarmymcallen.org, call (956) 682-1468 or visit at 1600 N 23rd St., to donate or learn more about how you can support The Salvation Army this Christmas. About The Salvation Army The Salvation Army annually helps nearly 24 million Americans overcome poverty, addiction, and economic hardships through a range of social services. By providing food for the hungry, emergency relief for disaster survivors, rehabilitation for those suffering from drug and alcohol abuse, and clothing and shelter for people in need, The Salvation Army is doing the most good at nearly 7,000 centers of operation around the country. For more information, visit SalvationArmyUSA.org. Follow on X @SalvationArmyUS and #DoingTheMostGood. Photo courtesy of Salvation Army PR
NOVEMBER 13, 2024 www.wintertexantimes.com 6 WINTER TEXAN TIMES RioValleyEstates@gmail.com • www.RioValleyEstatesTX.com Whether Your Ideal Location Includes • Pool & Spa • Rec Hall • Shopping • Dining • Fun Activities, Entertainment & Dancing Where You Call Home Makes All The Difference 715 N. Westgate Dr. • Weslaco • 956-968-2708 Expwy 83 Business 83 W Pike Blvd Panther Dr Westgate Dr Location! Location! Location! Only 2 Blocks Off I-2, And Beyond To The Entire RGV Within 5 Blocks Of All You Need Has The Location You’re Looking For! Rio Valley Estates 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 get together on at least a monthly basis – and we would love to see your photos and learn about where you went. The RGV Woodcarvers get together weekly too. I am sure there are others that are meeting up for little get-togethers here and there. 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. Ed Marten’s Senior Texas Softball League The Ed Marten’s Senior Texan Softball Leagues are open to all individual men and women aged 55 years and older. Practices and games are played at the City of McAllen West Side Park, on S. Ware Road, across from the Convention Center, at 9 a.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Practices run now through the end of December. Teams will be selected for the season in January with playoffs in March. Call Fred Esqueda (956) 897-6961 or Mike Brower (734) 834-0128 for more information. RGV Woodcarvers The RGV Woodcarvers welcomes any new and experienced carvers every Thursday at Kamova Events, 2711 S. 23rd St., McAllen, from 8 to 11:30 a.m. Any questions, call President Pam Horstman See REUNIONS pg. 14 IMAS Announces Dinosaurs Among Us The next time you dodge a pigeon on the sidewalk, watch a sparrow eat from a feeder in a backyard, or order chicken for dinner, know that you just had an encounter with a modern dinosaur. Dinosaurs never really vanished from Earth. Most did go extinct, but their evolutionary legacy lives on all around us, in birds. The exhibition Dinosaurs Among Us will highlight the unbroken line between the charismatic dinosaurs that dominated the planet for about 170 million years and modern birds. The panels feature large-scale color illustrations of familiar and newly discovered extinct dinosaur species as they would have looked in life. Organized by the American Museum of Natural History in New York with support from North Museum of Nature and Science, United States; Philip J. Currie Museum, Canada; Museo de Ciencias, Universidad de Navarra, Spain; and Universum Museo de las Ciencias de la UNAM, Mexico, Dinosaurs Among Us explores the practically obsolete boundary between the animals we call birds and those we traditionally called dinosaurs. Dinosaurs Among Us opens at IMAS on November 16. Living birds belong to a group, or clade, called the Dinosauria. It includes the extinct dinosaurs and all their living descendants, which is why most scientists now agree that birds are a kind of dinosaur just like we are a kind of mammal. The more comparisons we make between birds and their closest non-bird relatives, the more connections we find. Using paleontological and biological evidence, audiences learn about the links between dinosaurs and birds by examining their reproduction, physical structures, and the evolution of flight, demonstrating that birds truly are the Dinosaurs Among Us. This edition of Dinosaurs Among Us is curated by Dr. Akinobu Watanabe, Research Associate at the American Museum of Natural History and Assistant Professor of Anatomy at New York Institute of Technology. It is adapted from the Museum’s original exhibition of the same title, curated by Mark Norell, Curator Emeritus in the Division of Paleontology. About the American Museum of Natural History (amnh.org) The American Museum of Natural History, founded in 1869 with a dual mission of scientific research and science education, is one of the world’s preeminent scientific, educational, and cultural institutions. The Museum encompasses more than 40 permanent exhibition halls, galleries for temporary exhibitions, the Rose Center for Earth and Space including the Hayden Planetarium, and the Richard Gilder Center for Science, Education, and Innovation. The Museum’s scientists draw on a world-class Anchiornis: This feathered dinosaur, Anchiornis huxleyi, which lived in what’s now China about 161 million years ago, embodies the gradual transition from non-avian dinosaurs to birds. Its skeleton wasn’t built for powerful flapping, but its feathered limbs could have provided enough lift to run or jump up to high perches, and flap or glide back down again. Zhao Chuang; courtesy of Peking Natural Science Organization
7 WINTER TEXAN TIMES www.wintertexantimes.com NOVEMBER 13, 2024 @Sharyland Dental Care www.sharylanddentalcare.net Richard A. Young D.D.S. 2407 E. Griffin Pkwy. – Mission, TX - 956-581-2773 GENERAL DENTISTRY EXCEPTIONAL CARE Since 1982 Now Accepting Cigna Medicare Advantage We’re All About Smiles Invest in your smile, and change your life. Your smile and your health deserve the best in decision making!!! • For dental care you can trust and have confidence in • Come See Us At Sharyland Dental Care “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 , . t r , t e f e . n t e e l s g , e f d y n f a h , n h n , s s Meet nature’s cleanup crew at ReFest Did you know that Vultures protect both wildlife and human communities? These birds of prey are known as scavengers who feed on dead animals or carrion, which plays a crucial role in maintaining the health of our ecosystems. Meet Nature’s Clean-up Crew at ReFest with Sky King’s Falconry, Saturday, November 16, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., at Quinta Mazatlán. ReFest, sponsored by H-E-B, celebrates Texas Recycles Day. Bring your plastic bag or bottle to be recycled at the festival for a free ticket thanks to H-E-B’s commitment to recycling. Guests will enjoy an upcycled marketplace with vendors, sustainable trade show and native plants for sale. Sky King’s Falconry offers three shows, 10:30 a.m., 12:30 p.m. and 2 p.m. at ReFest. They will introduce vultures and other birds of prey, including a residential Crested Caracara, in the falcon family who behave similar to vultures in consuming carcasses. Their scavenging activity controls spread of disease, helps to recycle nutrients back into the soil, and acts as natural waste management. The presence of Nature’s Clean Up Crew supports biodiversity and enhances ecosystem resilience which all life is dependent on. Learn more about these charismatic creatures at ReFest in celebration of Texas Recycles Day, November 16, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Quinta Mazatlán. Get a free ticket when you bring in a plastic bag or plastic water bottle or pay $5 admission at the gate or miss the line and purchase at quintamazatlan.ticketleap.com. Free offsite parking and charter bus service is available at 1400 Wichita Avenue near La Plaza Mall. For more information, please follow Quinta Mazatlan on social media. permanent collection of more than 30 million specimens and artifacts, some of which are billions of years old, and on one of the largest natural history libraries in the world. Through its Richard Gilder Graduate School, the Museum offers two of the only free-standing, degree-granting programs of their kind at any museum in the U.S.: the Ph.D. program in Comparative Biology and the Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) Earth Science residency program. Visit amnh.org for more information. About the International Museum of Art & Science Located in the Rio Grande Valley, the International Museum of Art & Science (IMAS) inspires visitors of all ages to explore the world of art and science. Through its diverse exhibitions, collections, and educational programs, IMAS empowers learners to pursue their passions and discover new interests. Accredited by the American Alliance of Museums and a Smithsonian Affiliate, IMAS is located at 1900 W. Nolana Avenue in McAllen, Texas. The museum is open Wednesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. For more information on admission, events, and programs, visit theimasonline. org or call (956) 681-2800. Sky King’s Falconry invites you to meet natures cleanup crew at ReFest. Photo courtesy of Quinta Mazatlan
NOVEMBER 13, 2024 www.wintertexantimes.com 8 WINTER TEXAN TIMES Sundays 1:30-5:30pm Live Music in Event Center Steven May & Leon Mann Wed • 11am-8pm Thurs • 11am-8pm Fri • 11am-8pm Sat • 11am-8pm Sun • 11am-8pm NOW HIRING All Positions! RIVERSIDE DREAMER River Tours Call (956) 581-4477 Reservations Suggested 1 Hour River Tours Wed • 1:00pm Thurs • 1:00pm Fri • 1:00pm Sat • 1:00pm Seniors - $13 Adults - $15 Child - $11 OPEN (956) 581-1033 Riverside In-MissionTx Relax Outside By The Rio Grande River Jam Sessions Craft Sales Coming Soon Friday Fish Fry 4:00pm-7:00pm White Fish or Shrimp Dinner $13.99 Combo Dinner $14.99 Coleslaw, Baked Beans, French Fries, Hush Puppies www.ontheriver.net • 214 E. Chimney Rd • Mission, TX 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 Nov 21 & Dec 19 • Texas Wheels 7pm • $10 Jan 4 • The Fabulous Cruisers 7pm • $12 MURDER MYSTERY & DINNER Dec 7 • $10 • 4:30pm SHOWS Dec 14 • Adam Pope 7pm • $10 CRAFT SHOWS Nov 16 • 8am-12pm Tradewinds side Lunch available for purchase Nov 18 • 8am-12pm Mission Bell side Lunch available for purchase BIT O HEAVEN RV & MOBILE HOME RESORT 1051 W Bus Hwy 83 • Donna,TX 78537 SUSAN THOMAS, ACTIVITY DIRECTOR 603-396-2786 TUESDAYS • HAPPY HOUR • 3-5 PM PASS THE HAT Nov 19 • Regan James Nov 26 • Curt James Dec 3 • Bruce Boudreau Dec 10 • Jerry Co Soda, water, popcorn, and snacks for sale, free ice/cups, BYOB, 50/50 door prizes. FRIDAYS • DANCES • 7-10 PM Nov 15 • Burnin’ Ember • $10 Nov 22 • Rewind • $10 Nov 29 • Jealous Heart • $10 Dec 6 • Burnin’ Ember • $10 Soda, water, popcorn, and snacks for sale, free ice/cups, 50/50 door prizes. Dec 7 • Patio Sales FAIRS & SALES • 8 AM-12 PM THURSDAYS • SOUP SUPPER • 4 PM Starting December 5 $4 All You Can Eat Bring your own bowls, to-go containers, snacks, BYOB. Dessert for sale. 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, November 13 Wednesday Breakfast - Bentsen Grove Resort, Palmview, 7:309am. All You Can Eat Breakfast - Enchanted Valley Ranch, Mission, 7:30-9am, $8pp. 7300 Monroe. Wednesday Burger Fry - Chimney Park, Mission, 11:30am12:30pm, Loaded 1/2 lb. burger, egg washed French fries, and ranch style baked beans, $7pp. 956-5855061. 4224 S. Conway Ave. Happy Hour - Victoria Palms Resort, Donna, 3-5pm, The Juice!, pass the hat. Ballroom. Dance - Social Hour - Siesta Retirement Village Park, Weslaco 3-4:30pm, Ron Moshier, pass the hat. Entertainer of the Year winner. Join for an afternoon of dancing and meeting old and new friends. Kitchen open with popcorn, drinks, and free ice. Open to the public. Host: Kay & Bob Rodrigue, 651206-5986. Office: 956-969-3740. 2712 S. International Blvd. Karaoke - McAllen Mission RV Resort, Mission, 3-6pm, Hall-2. Music: country, old time rock. Chef Joann meals served $. Snacks, ice cream, and drinks available. BYOD. Come and sing, visit, or relax. 956-585-7630. 3366 N. Bentsen Palm Dr. Public Meal - Social Time Dinner - Siesta Retirement Village Park, Weslaco 4:30-6pm, Large loaded beef enchiladas, tomatoes, olives, cheese, coleslaw, refried beans, pie, tea and coffee, $10pp. Bring table service. All ticket sales final. Main Hall. Open to the public. Office: 956-969-3740. 2712 S. International Blvd. Meals - Tip O’ Texas RV Resort, Pharr, 5:30-7:15pm, Hot dogs, burgers, polish sausages, concessions. 101 E. Sioux Rd. 956-7876461. Dance - Tip O’ Texas RV Resort, Pharr, 7-10pm, Steven May & Southern Knights, $8pp. BYOB. 101 E. Sioux Rd. 956-787-6461. Thursday, November 14 Line Dance - Enchanted Valley Ranch, Mission, 10am. Thursday Lunch Burgers - Bentsen Grove Resort, Palmview, 11:30am-1pm. Happy Hour Dance - Pine to Palm Resort, Weslaco, 3-5pm, Edith & Diego, pass the hat. BYOB. Pop and water available for sale, free ice. 802 S. International Blvd. Church Services - Bibleville Conference Grounds, Alamo, 7pm, 956-787-2024. 1346 N. Cesar Chavez Rd. Bingo - Enchanted Valley 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 NOVEMBER 13, 2024 DANCES • 7-10PM Nov 15 • The Night Howlers • $10 Nov 29 • The Howlers • $10 Dec 6 • Time Machine • $10 adv $12 at door - Tickets On Sale 11/14 Sunday Soup Dinner Nov 17 4:30 - 6pm (Bring your own bowl and topping) Monday Dinner • 4:30 - 6pm Wednesday Breakfast • 7:30 - 9am Thursday Lunch Burgers • 11:30am - 1pm MEALS Dec 14 • 8am - Noon Breakfast Available CRAFT SHOW Sundays • 8:30am With Jesse Hernandez CHURCH SERVICE YARD SALES Dec 7 • 8am - Noon 956-585-0703 1645 S Bentsen Palm Drive • Palmview Paula McSpadden Activity Director ALL EVENTS OPEN TO THE PUBLIC Division of Wilder’s Corporation DANCES • EVERY FRIDAY 7-10 PM $8 (Unless Noted) ENTERTAINMENT Dec. 8, 2:45pm Lindley Creek Candy Cane Christmas $10 Advance/$12 Door Dec. 15, 3pm Winter Texan Orchestra Donation at the Door 501 W. Owassa Rd • Pharr, Texas 78577 956-787-6538 FOR INFO/TICKETS Nov. 15 • Texas Storm Nov. 22 • Wally Garza & Texas Blood Nov. 23, 3-5pm • Welcome Back Party with Leslie Blasing • $0 Requires Ticket, Call to Reserve Nov. 29 • Vinyl Spin Dec. 6 • Southern Vibes Dec. 13 • Steven May & Southern Knights CREDIT CARDS ACCEPTED For more information call: 956-580-7800 email: ads@wintertexantimes.com Make sure your events are like... THIS!! HOW? Advertise in the Valley’s #1 Winter Texan Paper y , o , . e e , y Ranch, Mission, 7pm. Friday, November 15 Patio Sale - Restful Valley Ranch, Mission, 8am-12:30pm. Yahoo - Enchanted Valley Ranch, Mission, 1pm. Dance - Victoria Palms Resort, Donna, 7-10pm, EL&R, $8pp. Dance - Bit-O-Heaven RV Park, Donna, 7-10pm, Burnin’ Ember, $10pp. 1051 W. Bus. Hwy. 83/ Hook Ave. Dance - Siesta Retirement Village Park, Weslaco, 7-10pm, Steven May and the Southern Knights, $9pp. The best of country music with a touch of rock n’ roll. Kitchen open with drinks, popcorn, and free ice. Main Hall. Open to the public. Host: Social Board. Office: 956-969-3740. 2712 S. International Blvd. Dance - Texas Trails RV Resort, Pharr, 7pm, Texas Storm, $8pp. 501 W Owassa Rd. Dance - Fun N Sun Resort, San Benito, 7-10pm, Texas Wheels, $8pp at the door. Dance - Bentsen Grove Resort, Palmview, 7-10pm, The Night Howlers, $10pp. Saturday, November 16 Park Wide Garage Sale - Canyon Lake RV Resort, Mission, 8am-Noon, HUGE park-wide sale held in the Hall! Don’t miss it! No early Sales. 4770 N. Mayberry Rd. Patio Sales - Fun N Sun Resort, San Benito, 8-11am. Craft Show - Mission Bell Resort, Mission, 8am-Noon, Lunch available for purchase. Tradewinds side. Saturday Breakfast - Chimney Park, Mission, 8-10am, Full breakfast, $7pp. 956-585-5061. 4224 S. Conway Ave. Patio Sale - Restful Valley Ranch, Mission, 8am-12:30pm. Country Jam - Green Gate Grove, Palmview, 12:30pm, Lunch 11 a.m. Jam 12:30 p.m. Everyone invited. Fall Craft Sale - Siesta Retirement Village Park, Weslaco, 1-4pm, Bring your friends and shop! Main Hall. Open to the public. 8’ table cost $10. Host: Linda Boddy, 660-723-1536. Office: 956-969-3740. 2712 S. International Blvd. Dance - Enchanted Valley Ranch, Mission, 6-9pm, The Howlers, $10pp. Dance - Trophy Gardens, Alamo, 7-10pm, Ron Moshier, $8pp. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. BYOB, set-ups, concessions. 956-6855300. 800 State Hwy. 495. Sunday, November 17 Church Service - Fiesta Village, Mission, 8:30am, 205 S. Stewart Rd. Church Service - Bentsen Grove Resort, Palmview, 8:30am, With Jesse Hernandez. Church Services - Quiet Village II, Donna, 9-10am, Non-denominational services. Pastor Mary Chamberlin. Worship Service - Siesta Retirement Village Park, Weslaco, 9-10am, Winter Church. Open to the public. Office: 956-969-3740. 2712 S. International Blvd. Bible Studies - Bibleville Conference Grounds, Alamo, 9am, 956-787-2024. 1346 N. Cesar Chavez Rd. Church Service - Alamo Palms MH & RV Park, 9-10am, Main Hall. Sunday Worship - Pharr South Park, Pharr, 9:30am. Worship Service - Palm Shadows RV/MH Park, Donna, 10am. Church Service - Bentsen Palm RV Park, Mission, 10am, Rec Hall. 3501 N. Bentsen Palm Dr. Worship Service - Eastgate RV & MH Park, Harlingen, 10am, Non-denominational church services. Please come join us in celebrating Sunday worship in the South Hall. 956-423-3137. 2801 Harrison. See PARKS pg. 16 For more information, photos and tour schedules visit Wintertainers TM at www.wintertexantimes.com www.wintertexantimes.com tainers Winter TM
NOVEMBER 13, 2024 www.wintertexantimes.com 10 WINTER TEXAN TIMES 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 Champion Lakes, McAllen Before you even get to the golf course at Champion Lakes, there’s a hard-to-hide signature stop. “The driving range here is amazing,” Golf Director Carlos Espinosa said. “You won’t find many driving ranges of this size and quality that are open to the public in the United States. I honestly, don’t know if there are any.” The range is 130 yards in length by 52 yards in width. It’s open from 7 a.m. until 10 p.m. seven days a week. “It’s a monster,” Espinosa said. “It almost looks like a football field.” GOLF From pg. 1 There are some times when the range will carry as many people as the course. You could actually spend an entire day at the range, or on the putting/chipping green and in the clubhouse for a signature Champion Lakes hamburger and fries, or anything else on their menu, and never get to the golf course (or have moments of golf rage). If you do take a trip to play 18, 340-yard par-4 No. 10 is a gem that will challenge golfers from the tee, more from the approach and finally on the putt, if you’re lucky enough to get on the green in two. It’s a hole that, no matter what your score is, will scorch itself into your memory. “The way the wind blows, the way the green slopes, and with the lake in front of the green – a small green, it makes it very difficult,” Espinosa said. “It’s very hidden.” The key to the hole is to get a good tee shot that lands between 120-130 yards from the green. However, it’s not the tee shot that’s difficult – comparatively speaking – it’s the next one.” “That’s where the challenge begins,” Espinosa said. “The wind can be up and down there. Then if you come up short on the green – you can go five or six yards past the water, but the way the green is sloped, it will trickle back and could end up in the water, just like at Augusta.” Alamo Country Club Once considered the ultimate hidden gem throughout the entire Rio Grande Valley, Alamo Country Club is a place everyone needs to play, whether in a tournament, as a resident or on the golf course. The holes are challenging, more so than one would think. The traps and other “dangers” have been carefully put in places where clearly the designers were thinking about the golfers (and envisioning the looks of anger and frustration). There are some scenic holes – the more scenic, the more difficult, and you might walk in not knowing anybody and leave as a family Los Lagos Golf Course. Photo by Anastasia Brunson
11 WINTER TEXAN TIMES www.wintertexantimes.com NOVEMBER 13, 2024 We Love Our Winter Texans! Thank you for making us your home away from home! • Nightly, 7 Day Plus Rates Available • Fully Equipped Kitchens • Free Wi-Fi • Outdoor Pool • Small Pet Welcome (with fee) • Guest Laundry Service Walking Distance to the La Plaza Mall and several restaurants. For Reservations 956-378-4046 www.mcallen-studio6.com 700 Savannah Ave. McAllen, TX Lock In Your Rates For Next Winter Winter Texan 7 Day Plus Special! $327.67 Queen Bed • $375.97 2 Full Size Beds PLEASE MENTION AD FOR SPECIAL! SPECIAL! 7 Day Plus Valley Star AWARDS SHOW F E B 1 2 2 0 2 5 14th Annual Brought to you by Who will be the 2025 Entertainer of the Year? Find out in person at this year’s Valley Star Awards Show SAVE THE DATE Valley Star Awards Show Wednesday, February 12, 2025 Tickets on Sale January 2025 Ballots available January 15, 2025 ? member. That might be the greatest gem of all the gems at ACC, the people. Whether you are arriving or leaving, chances are you will see dozens of people milling about ACC’s beautiful pool and outdoor patio. They’ll be eating food, having some adult beverages and chatting up a storm. At first, you may not consider that a precious gem, but it won’t take long to realize that there are countless numbers of friendships and family-like bonds that have been formed under the roof of the patio or in the depths of the pool. It makes ACC a true gem. Los Lagos Golf Club, Edinburg If wind could be a signature hole, then give Los Lagos 18 of them. Can “wind” be a gem? Los Lagos is a true gem in the Valley. Its design and strategically placed moguls, sand traps and oceans of water, just add to what can be a really frustrating, or super exciting, round of golf. The 530-yard par-5 No. 8, however, stands out as a signature hole. Of course, it’s well protected like a fort with water on the right, rolling hills on the left and water on the back side of the green (and let’s not forget the wind). What makes this hole great is that you may have played 17 holes of terrible golf, but here’s your moment to shine. The course is wonderfully challenging and “delightfully” windy (again, trying to turn the wind into a gem). Los Lagos has beautiful rolling hills, like those in the countryside in Verona, Italy, leaning fairways and holes that will give you plenty of options on how you want to reach the green. It’s overall beauty – those moguls are fun – and almost impossible – to avoid. They stand there in front of you, hiding your view from the hole and daring you to just hit it over them – you can hear them snickering. Don’t let its beauty lull you into a false sense of security, this course is one of the most enjoyable courses in the Rio Grande Valley. You hit a great shot here – truly a precious gem, maybe one of the great, you will remember it. Tierra del Sol, Pharr Almost a decade ago, Tierra del Sol put close to a million dollars of work into their golf course. Since then, many of the holes can be considered signature holes, with shiny new greens, new cart paths and several renovated tee boxes. Of course, their breakfast tacos shine brighter than just about anything and we’re good with that. (Hey! A person must eat!) But there’s also something neat about coming up No. 18 with the majestic colonial-looking clubhouse on top of a minor hill that puts a great finishing touch on the day. It’s a straight, long and narrow See GOLF pg. 14 Champion Lakes. Photo by Kathy Olivarez
NOVEMBER 13, 2024 www.wintertexantimes.com 12 WINTER TEXAN TIMES (956)566-1157 The Flight of the Monarch Life is full of surprises. Since one of my favorite tours is the Monarch Butterfly Tour, I am well aware that this month is the migration month for these delicate creatures as they seek their Winter Home in the pine forests of Mexico. Their 3,000-mile flight from Canada to Mexico will come right through Texas and the Rio Grande Valley. My surprise was to see a beautiful Monarch on the floor of my carport. Surely, he must have stopped for a rest or maybe he had been trapped in my radiator grill and finally was able to escape. What a thrill to have a really close up view of a Monarch. Go With Jo will be offering the Monarch Butterfly tour departing on February 13, 2025. This is a seven-day tour spending two nights on the road to arrive at one of the larger butterfly preserves in Mexico. If you have never been on this tour, you certainly should consider taking advantage of this opportunity. Most of the Go With Jo tours are by bus giving you a true insight into what life is like in Mexico. You will find that in the Mexican Culture older people are held in high esteem and treated with the greatest respect. The routing for this tour is through Monterrey and Saltillo to Matehuala and San Miguel de Allende to Angangueo, a small village situated in the beautiful state of Michoacan. Be prepared for chilly weather once the sun goes down. In fact, wear warm sleep wear or cuddle up. However, the days are generally delightful. There is some walking at a high altitude but for those who do not want to walk there are horses available. The horseback ride is not included in the cost of the tour. A better solution is just to sit still by the side of a bubbling spring and quietly wait for the butterflies to come to you. As the sun warms the wings of the butterflies, they will fall to the ground and later descend for a drink of water where you are waiting. One of my greatest thrills was to actually have some of the butterflies land on my shoulders. I don’t really approve of the horses. As they walk up the paths where the butterflies lie stunned on the ground their big hooves will smash and kill too many of the Monarchs. Because of this the caretakers generally keep the paths closed until all the Monarchs have flown down for a drink of water. Since the peso always is changing value against the US dollar, the hotels in Mexico are reluctant to quote their prices too early. Just as soon as I have all the contracts in place I will publish the cost of the tour. I always price the tours as low as possible. Start saving your money now. Consider that the tour may run somewhere between $135 to $150 per day. All entries will be included as well as all breakfasts along with a few other meals. If you do not have a traveling companion, start looking for one. A single must pay the entire cost of the hotel room, which increases the cost of the tour. I always ask for two double beds per room. There you have it - my recommendations and suggestions. If you have a question that hasn’t been answered, give me a call at (956) 423-1446 or better yet to my cell at (956) 536-1242. the Admissions Desk. Technologies and furnishings for the Sunday Speaker Series is generously provided by H-E-B. This program is made possible with generous support from the Carmen C. Guerra Endowment. Mrs. Guerra was deeply committed to supporting educational opportunities in the Rio Grande Valley. This named endowment was created at the museum by her family to honor her memory and to continue her commitment to providing opportunities for education to the community. The Museum of South Texas History is located downtown Edinburg at 200 North Closner Boulevard on the Hidalgo County Courthouse square. Founded in 1967 as the Hidalgo County Historical Museum in the 1910 Hidalgo County Jail, the museum has grown over the decades through a series of expansions to occupy a full city block. For more information about MOSTHistory, including becoming a FRIEND, visit MOSTHistory.org, like us on Facebook and Instagram, follow on Twitter, find on YouTube or call (956) 383-6911. SPEAKERS From pg. 3 Courtesy photo
13 WINTER TEXAN TIMES www.wintertexantimes.com NOVEMBER 13, 2024 Buy One Entree Get One 1/2 Off Traditional Chinese Food Beef & Brocoli, Terriaki Chicken, Kung-Pao Chicken and more ... Expires November 30, 2024 Located in the Val Verde Flea Market in Donna 935 US-83 Business, Ste. 20 Open every day 11am - 2pm & Friday 5pm - 8pm Closed Thursdays (956) 772-7256 • www.lobodelmarcafe.com 204 W. Palm Street • South Padre Island, TX Family Owned & Operated 20% OFF Expires: April 30, 2025 Cannot be used with any other discounts or coupons or specials Any Entree All Day Open Breakfast • Lunch • Dinner Thanksgiving Buffet (956) 782- 3200 Tickets Available at Hotel Lobby 3309 E Interstate Hwy 2 • Donna, TX Herb Roasted Turkey, Roast Beef, Glazed Ham With Sides, Salads and Desserts All You Can Eat November 28th 11:00AM - 2:00PM $25plus tax Promote Your Restaurant ADVERTISE WITH US Call (956) 580-7800 Dining in the Valley We, and I am sure you do too, always like finding a place to have a great meal. Our Taste of the Valley features restaurants that are here just to do that. Taste of the Valley features local restaurants in the area that are ready to serve you; restaurants are open for dining in and take out. Please support our advertisers and all our local businesses this year, and every year. Each issue we will feature a restaurant we have visited and share our experience and some photos of some great food. Join us on our gastro-tour of the Valley as we hit different dining spots and tell you about all the great dining in the RGV. If you have a favorite dining spot that we have not visited yet, that you think needs to be featured here, call us at (956) 580-7800 or email us at news@wintertexantimes.com.
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