Winter Texan TIMES Serving Winter Texans FromMission To South Padre Island Since 1987 Vol. 36, No. 7 © 2022 www.wintertexantimes.com Wednesday, November 30, 2022 Golf ballot Pg. 14 INDEX Reunions p 4 Events Calendar p 6 Parks Calendar p 8 WintertainersTM p 8 Golf Ballot p 14 “On the road with Jo” p 15 Taste of the Valley p 17 Business Guide p 21 Classifieds p 22 Coupon Index p 22 Rina’s Ramblings See RAMBLINGS pg. 18 I hope everyone enjoyed their Thanksgiving holiday. Ours was low key, but still quite satisfying. The only hiccup we had was that the turkey didn’t take as long to cook as we thought it would. The sides weren’t done yet when it was finished. I was able to host my father this year – our first Thanksgiving without my mom. So, it was a little different, but we were able to Celebrate Christmas in the Valley The Senior Ambassadors men’s chorus, which has been a part of the Rio Grande Valley since 1985, is looking for singers to join their chorus. Senior Ambassadors is composed of men from the Valley and Winter Texan community. They perform choral music from sacred and semi classical, to pop and country. The group is always looking for men who enjoy singing and invite you to join them at the Men singers wanted First impressions can mean a lot, set within the right context. J.K Rowling said, “A good first impression can work wonders,” while Daniel Handler has a completely different take and said, “I don’t know if you’ve ever noticed this, but first impressions are often entirely wrong.” However you view first or early impressions and whether they make See GOLF pg. 12 Views top first impressions at lower Valley golf courses See SINGERS pg. 19 If you are looking for ways to start celebrating Christmas early, look no further. Cities throughout the Valley are turning on their lights and welcoming you to come in and join the fun. Some cities are having full weekend celebrations, some are even having monthlong celebrations. Here are a few that we are aware of that we would like to share. I am sure there are a few more we don’t know about as well. Keep a watchful eye to see what your city is doing this holiday season. Tonight, the City of Alton will hold their Tree Lighting Ceremony at 6 p.m. The event will be held at the Alton Recreation Center, 349 Dawes St. Also tonight, the Hidalgo Illuminated Christmas Parade will be held at 7 p.m. at HiSee CHRISTMAS pg. 16 Brownsville Golf Center Photo by Henry Miller Weslaco Christmas Parade Photo by Henry Miller
NOVEMBER 30, 2022 www.wintertexantimes.com 2 WINTER TEXAN TIMES South Texas Ecotourism Center EXPLORE, PROTECT, EDUCATE 501 W. STATE HIGHWAY 100, LAGUNA VISTA, TX 78578 FREE ADMISSION OPEN DAILY 8AM-5PM 956-772-0212 WWW.STEC-LV.ORG WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/STECLV • VIEWING TOWER • DISPLAYS W/QR CODES • LIVING EXHIBITS • AMPITHEATER • SPACE RENTALS STEC Fall Speaker Series 2022 Sponsored by The Laguna Madre Museum Foundation “DEEP IN THE HEART” A celebration of Texas’ diverse landscapes and remarkable wildlife. Screening of the new film by director Ben Masters Wed. Dec. 7, 6:30 – 7:30 p.m. (Center open until 8:30 p.m.) Free Admission & Refreshments “SPI Birding Center: Christmas Bird Count” Javier Gonzalez, Texas Master Naturalist, SPI Birding Center Educator Wed. Dec. 21, 6:30 – 7:30 p.m. (Center open until 8:30 p.m.) Free Admission & Refreshments Christmas at STEC Thursday, December 8, 6 – 9 p.m. Santa, Food, Craft Vendors, Holiday Performances, & Kid’s Corner Family Fun • Free Admission RioValleyEstates@gmail.com | www.RioValleyEstates.com Rio Valley Estates See Ranchero Village’s (Our Sister Park) Activities Ad On Page • Concrete Pad Sites • Full Hookups • Wide Paved Streets • Gated Community • Shower Facilities • Laundry Facilities • 1 FREE High Speed Internet Modem with WiFi • 1 FREE Spectrum TV Cable Box • Swimming Pool & Hot Tub • Recreation Hall • Shuffle Board Rio Valley Estates (Sister Park to Ranchero Village) 715 N. Westgate Dr. • Weslaco 956-968-2708 Expwy 83 Business 83 W Pike Blvd Panther Dr Westgate Dr RVs at Winter Texan Times: Looking back 35 years Winter Texans love to play Whether it’s cards, shuffleboard, pickleball, dominoes, or billiards, Winter Texans love to play. They love to compete too. We have been to many different events throughout the last 35 years where Winter Texans have been playing all sorts of games. Winter Texans make games too, or they bring games from their area or heritage and share them with the parks. In recent years we have seen turtle races, Kentucky derby games, and even Wii sports games. It has been so much fun to see how these games are played and See LOOKING BACK pg. 24 how much fun everyone has. There are some, like the turtle races, that I would like to get back to sometime. That one incorporated a wooden turtle on a string that was held by two people – one on one side of the building, and one on the other. Participators tried to see who could get their turtle to the other side fastest. Golf has always been a favorite among Winter Texans. The Valley is a place you can play the sport nearly all year long. This is why we feature our Valley golf courses twice a year. We want to make sure you know where you can find a good round of golf. And we also hear back from you and where you like going, and what you like about our Valley golf courses. Sports like tennis have nearly gone by the wayside and been replaced with pickleball. Pickleball is a little lower impact and gaining popularity worldwide. Pickleball is similar to tennis, but it combines elements of tennis, badminton and ping-pong. It is played on a smaller court, uses a paddle like a ping-pong paddle, and uses a wiffle ball. A game that has remained popular is shuffleboard. While many parks have their own games, there is also a Rio Grande Valley Shuffleboard Association that has regular tournaments nearly every week. They then have a tournament of champions in March. There will be an international tournament in 2024 in San Benito. You can get more information about the association and how you can participate, by visiting rgvsa.weebly.com. Photo by Carina Brunson Photo by Henry Miller
3 WINTER TEXAN TIMES www.wintertexantimes.com NOVEMBER 30, 2022 WE TRADES WE PAY CASH FOR RVS DONNA • 956-464-4403 655 Ron Hoover Drive NEW BIGGER STORE LARGEST SELECTION • OVER 12 ACRES OF RVS • OVER 1000 TO CHOOSE FROM Utility And Cargo Trailers No Credit Needed Newly Expanded Body Shop • Mobile Service • 23 Service Bays Rv Parts & Hardware Store The Only McAllen Harlingen Ron Hoover Equipment Ron Hoover RV & Marine Center
NOVEMBER 30, 2022 www.wintertexantimes.com 4 WINTER TEXAN TIMES @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 Allwell from Superior Healthplan 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 HEARING AIDS Have you been frustrated by cheap hearing aids you ordered by phone, online or from a big-box retailer? We can help. Let a licensed professional, using the latest technology, calibrate and program your custom digital Hearing Aid Solution. SPECIAL FREE 2 YEARS OF BATTERIES OR BLUETOOTH REMOTE with qualifying purchase of Bluetooth Hearing Aids We have the latest technology. 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A new service concept that provides convenience for you and your patients. Request a replacement Styletto to be received prior to sending in original device. TeleCare ready. Pharr - Mike Pruneda 300 E. Interstate 2 - Ste. G Hours: Mon.-Fri. 9am-5pm (closed 12-1:30pm for lunch) CALL (956) 702-7777 NOW! LIMITED APPOINTMENTS! he latest e! FREE Batteries ring warranty period of hearing aids bought this week. fits r 10 years. iminates feedback lephone compatible echargeable upon approval Mike A. Pruneda Factory Trained ing Instrument Specialist 12 mos. 0% Interest art Technology, S HEARING? ar canal. Brands Care Credit Patient Plans 24, 36 & 48Months Available. Also 12mos. 0% Interest. Subject to Credit Approval We Gua r an t ee You Wi l l Be Sat i s f i ed Wi th Our Serv i ces Use your phone as a for FREE! REMOTE 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. If you have a great photo from your reunion or meeting, we would love to see that too. We love seeing photos of Red Hatter groups and others as they gather at local restaurants to catch up and share what’s new. You can send your information to news@wintertexantimes.com. Model Rail Roading & Railroaders Model Rail Roading & Railroaders have started getting together. Anyone interested in joining the group can join them Monday through Friday at the Hidalgo Pumphouse. Call Red at (313) 532-8549 for more information. RGVWoodcarvers The Rio Grande Valley Woodcarvers have begun their seasonal meetings. The woodcarvers are meeting at the Nomad Shrine Club, 1044 W. Nolana Blvd., in Pharr. The Carvers meet weekly on Thursdays from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. through March. Everyone is welcome to come and visit and join the club. After a third visit, you will be asked to become a member with annual dues. More information can be found online at www.rgvwoodcarvers.org. Get ready to build/carve for the Woodcarvers Show in January. Annual Fayette County, IA Reunion Fayette County, Iowa residents will meet Thursday, January 19 at Mr. Gatti’s, 4100 N. 2nd St., McAllen, at 11 a.m. For more information, call Violet (319) 230-2746. Winter Texans return to the RGV Submitted by Arleen Bier Even though we have been coming here for many years, we still find new things to do, new festivals to attend, new restaurants to try, and many treasures at flea markets and park sales. We appreciate the warm welcome we receive every year when we return to the Rio Grande Valley. We stay at La Floresta near Mercedes, a small park where the residents are like one big family. With its par three golf course, many activities revolve around golf. But it is only one of many activities that bring residents together for fun and laughter. Connie Kolynchuk, from Selkirk, Manitoba, makes par for the team, while Casey Tippet, Sallisaw, Missouri, looks on.
5 WINTER TEXAN TIMES www.wintertexantimes.com NOVEMBER 30, 2022 MISSION EVENT CENTER 200 N Shary Rd, Mission, TX 78572 DEC 8 & 9 For more information please call: (956) 585-2727 7:30 AM TO 11:30 AM FREE TO THE PUBLIC HEALTHSCREENINGS|BLOODWORK| FLUVACCINES Scan or call to schedule appointment *APPOINTMENT REQUIRED FOR BLOOD WORK *A 12-HOUR FAST IS REQUIRED BEFORE APPOINTMENT FLU VACCINES PROVIDED BY QUANTAFLO TEST (PERIPHERAL ARTERY DISEASE) BLOOD PRESSURE STRENGTH TEST BONE DENSITY STROKE RISK ASSESSMENT MEDICATION RECONCILIATION AAF wants to “strike” out hunger The Rio Grande Valley Chapter of the American Advertising Federation (AAF) is sponsoring a “Time to Give, Grinches” bowling tournament with all proceeds going to food pantries at local colleges and universities. It’s all part of a public service initiative to give back to the community. The AAF is considered the unifying voice of advertising and is made up of members that work at advertising agencies and marketing departments Valley-wide. “We wanted to take on a meaningful cause and make a difference,” explained A.B. Barrera who serves as 2nd Lt. Governor of the AAF 10th District made up of chapters in Arkansas, Louisiana, Oklahoma and Texas. “We’ve learned that some of our students today have to choose between buying lunch or putting gas in their cars to get to class. It’s been an ongoing problem, but the recent pandemic really brought the issue to light.” According to the Agriculture Department, some 20 million American college and university students are facing hunger or food insecurity. The latter is defined as a household having “limited or uncertain access to adequate food.” “This is not a local problem. This is a serious national issue,” said AAF-RGV Chapter President Maria Alvarez. “RGV colleges and universities all have food pantries to help their students and the AAF is doing its part to help these young men and women succeed at their education goals.” Studies show that students who face insecurity about basic needs like food or housing are more likely to report experiencing poor physical health, symptoms of depression and higher stress. These same studies show that food insecurity may adversely affect students’ academic performance and ultimately impact graduation rates. In the long run, this can negatively impact a whole community. At South Texas College, the greatest need is on the Starr County campus where the poverty rate is at 25% according to U.S. Census data. “We not only give out food to the students; we make sure they are taking enough home for their families,” said Campus Administrator Arturo Montiel. “Any given month we have 40 to 50 students coming to the food pantry and we’re helping to feed anywhere from 165 to 200 family members.” Recognizing the great need for help, the American Advertising Federation will host an ugly sweater bowling tournament December 7 at Flamingo Bowl in McAllen. Twenty-four teams will vie for bragging rights and help raise funds to fight hunger. Sponsorships of different levels are available and teams of four can sign up for $150. “It’s a chance to have fun, network with advertising folks and all for a great cause,” said AAF member and bowling tournament organizer Kim Selber. “If you can’t come out and bowl, you can still help by being a sponsor or even sending us an HEB gift card for the college food banks to distribute to students.” To register your team, go online at aafrgv.org or to become a sponsor or donate, call Robin Bullard at (956) 655-6824. Courtesy Photo
NOVEMBER 30, 2022 www.wintertexantimes.com 6 WINTER TEXAN TIMES We Love Our Winter Texans! Thank you for making us your home away from home • Nightly, 7 Day Plus Rates Available • Fully Equipped Kitchens • Free Wi-Fi • Outdoor Pool • Small Pet Welcome (with fee) • Guest Laundry Service Walking Distance to the La PlazaMall and several restaurants. For Reservations 956-668-7829 www.mcallen-studio6.com 700 Savannah Ave. McAllen, TX Lock In Your Rates For This Winter - Now! Winter Texan 7 Day Plus Special! $327.67 Queen Bed • $375.97 2 Full Size Beds PLEASE MENTION T AD FOR SPECIAL! SPECIAL! 7 Day Plus Lic# TACLB00114391E 10 Year Parts and Labor Warranty Mobile Home Installations 2022 Winter Promotion A/C Replacement 2 Ton - $3,500 3 Ton - $3,800 4 Ton - $4,500 5 Ton - $4,700 Free Installation Rio Grande Valley Call 830-399-0177 Text 956-304-8110 EVENTS CALENDAR December 1 – City of McAllen will host their First Annual RGV Turkey Trot at Fireman’s Park, 201 N. 2nd St. from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. Proceeds will benefit a local Veterans charity. For more information visit https:// www.athleteguild.com/running/ mcallen-tx/2022-1st-annual-rgv-turkey-trot-2022. December 1 – Weslaco Museum debuts their Christmas Tree Forest: Christmas Around the World exhibit. The exhibit will also feature 100+ artifacts from over 50 countries around the world. December 3 is free Saturday at the museum. Hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday. They are located at 500 S. Texas Blvd. Call (956) 968-9142 for more information. The exhibit will run through December 31. December 1 – Weslaco City Hall, 275 S. Kansas, will have their Christmas Light Display with a holiday market at 6 p.m. December 1-3 – The Veterans Memorial high School Harlequin Drama Club presents “School of RockThe Musical.” The performances will be at 7 p.m. each day. Tickets will be sold at the door, starting at 6:30, for $10. The school is located at 700 E. Mile 2 Rd. In Mission. December 2 – South Padre Island will hold their tree lighting ceremony at the SPI City Hall starting with a welcome by the mayor at 5:30 p.m. Their Annual Christmas Parade will follow at 6 p.m. The route will travel south on Padre Blvd. from Mars to Acapulco east of the medians only. December 2 – A Touch of Frost, by Valley Symphony Orchestra will be performed at the McAllen Performing Arts Center at 8 p.m. It is the holiday tradition featuring the Valley Symphony Chorale and seasonal favorites including sections from Handel’s Messiah and The Nutcracker. For tickets and more information, visit https://valleyorchestra. org/concerts/. December 2 – The City of Mission will host their Holiday Market featuring local vendors and live music. The event will be held from 5 to 8 p.m. in the Market Square at 202 W. Tom Landry. The event is pet friendly. December 2-17 – Skate-A Palooza Ice Rink will open at the Cameron County Amphitheater. The amphitheater is located at 53550 Dolphin Cove. December 3 – Watch the Lighted Boat Parade of illuminated boats of all sizes cruise through the Laguna Madre Bay. Designated viewing areas throughout the route offers public viewing. The parade starts at 6 p.m. December 3 – Experience the fun of RGV Modern Band Ensembles and faculty band. These groups comprise students learning new instruments and making contemporary popular music of varied styles. The show will also feature The Minor Revisions, a pop/rock band made up of UTRGV music faculty members. The event will take place at the UTRGV Performing Arts Complex in Edinburg at 7 p.m. Visit utrgvarts. universitytickets.com/ for tickets. December 3 – Cameron County Amphitheater and Isla Blanca Park will host a tree lighting and firework display at 9 p.m. The amphitheater is located at 53550 Dolphin Cove. December 3-4 – The 29th Annual Cinesol Film Festival will be held at the Mission CEED building and Mission Event Center. Screenings and sessions are $5 each. Awards ceremony is $10. A full calendar can be found on their website at www. cinesol.com. December 4 – The Museum of South Texas History will hold their Speaker Series at 2 p.m. The museum will welcome author Marie Theresa Hernandez, she will present her book about Juan N. Cortina. December 4 – IMAS hosts their Biodiversity Festival and Winter Market to celebrate the incredible variety of life on Earth. Admittance is included with admission. It will be held from 1 to 5 p.m. IMAS is located at 1900 W. Nolana Ave. in McAllen. December 5 – The UTRGV Viola Studio Recital will be held at 7 p.m. at the UTRGV Library Theater in Edinburg. Visit utrgvarts.universitytickets.com/ for tickets.
7 WINTER TEXAN TIMES www.wintertexantimes.com NOVEMBER 30, 2022 Enjoy a holiday lights display during the month of December sponsored by local businesses and brought to you by the City of Weslaco and the Weslaco Chamber! For more information on events call (956)968-2102 or email chamber@weslaco.com Feb. 11- Weslaco Royal Pageant Mar. 25- Texas Onion Fest Dec. 1- Tree Lighting & Holiday Market Dec. 10- Santa Dash 5k Fun Run & Weslaco Lighted Christmas Parade V I S I T WESLACO ! CHECK OUT LOCAL DEST INAT IONS Nana's Taqueria The Eatery (Food Truck Park) Historic Downtown Weslaco ITheatre @ The Tower Weslaco Museum Teddy's BBQ Valley Nature Center Frontera Audubon Estero Llano Grande State Park Tierra Santa Golf Course - - - - - - - - December 6 – Enjoy the sounds of the University Choir performing selections that will prepare you for the holiday season at the UTRGV Performing Arts Complex in Edinburg at 7 p.m. Tickets and a full calendar can be found at https://utrgvarts.universitytickets.com/. December 7 – Join the Valley Symphony at the Basilica of Our Lady San Juan del Valle for a very special holiday event. First, the brass will perform seasonal favorites, then the chorale will perform both with the brass as well as a capella. The event will be held at 8 p.m. The Basilica is located at 400 Virgen de San Juan Blvd. Tickets can be purchased at https://valleyorchestra.org/event/ merry-and-bright/. December 8 – Join McAllen Public Library for a writing workshop on Power Words, focusing on word meaning and imagery in writing. The session will be led by the 2022 McAllen Poet Laureate, Victoria Lopez, and would benefit any level writer. The event will be held from 6 to 8:30 p.m. A Q&A panel will follow with local poets and authors. Registration required. Call (956) 681-3000. The library is located at 4001 N. 23rd St. December 8-9 – The Annual Mission Community Health Fair will be held from 7:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. both days at the Mission Event Center, 200 N. Shary Rd. Appointments for tests requiring fasting can be made by calling (956) 585-2727. December 9 – Join the Valley Symphony for Deck the Palms at the Cameron County Amphitheatre in South Padre Island for a very special holiday event. First, the brass will perform seasonal favorites, then the chorale will perform both with the brass as well as a capella. The event will be held at 8 p.m. The Amphitheatre is located at 53550 Dolphin Cove. Tickets can be purchased at https://valleyorchestra.org/concerts/. December 8-10 – The Veterans Memorial high School Harlequin Drama Club presents “School of RockThe Musical.” The performances will be at 7 p.m. each day. Tickets will be sold at the door, starting at 6:30, for $10. The school is located at 700 E. Mile 2 Rd. in Mission. All is Bright at Aurora House Those at Aurora House are excited for the holiday season, a time of reflection, gratefulness, and family. They are grateful that so many give each year; grateful that with the help of sponsors and donors, Aurora House can continue to provide these special moments to families who need it most. Aurora House continues to provide care and give back to the wonderful community, but they cannot do it alone. Aurora House receives no funding from Medicare, Medicaid, or insurance. Donations and sponsorships from the community are crucial to continuing their mission and providing much needed comfort and care for their patients and their families. Your support has enabled them to open their second wing and accommodate 10 patients at a time, so family can be family again: making memories, building a legacy, sharing love. The care they provide is at no cost to the patient or their family – but the cost of care is significant. The Aurora House will hold a special event to raise funds it needs to keep operating and helping families with hospice care. This year, “All is Bright” will be held on the evening of Friday, December 2, at Villa De Cortez, 260 S. Texas Blvd., in Weslaco, at 7 p.m. The event will feature food, drinks, dancing and fabulous auction items. There will be a range of sponsorship levels with benefits and recognition opportunities. Your sponsorship will help provide care for the residents of Aurora House and their families this holiday season. Let your kind and generous contribution be a miracle for families in the community who need it most. As always, Aurora House is looking forward to sharing the holiday season with you – Thank you for your support. For more information about the Aurora House, visit their website at https://aurorahouse.org/.
NOVEMBER 30, 2022 www.wintertexantimes.com 8 WINTER TEXAN TIMES www.ontheriver.net • 214 E. Chimney Rd • Mission, TX Sundays 1:30-5:30pm Live Music Steven May & The Southern Knights Come Try Our TEXAS Size Pork Tenderloin Wed 11am-8pm Thurs 11am-8pm Fri 11am-8pm Sat 11am-8pm Sun 11am-8pm OPEN NOW HIRING All Positions! 1 Hour River Tours Wed 1:00pm Thurs 1:00pm Fri 1:00pm Sat 1:00pm Relax Outside By The Rio Grande River • • • • • • • • • Seniors - $12 Adults - $14 Child - $10 SINCE 1982 Through Our Doors & Hearts Pass Some of the Finest People Our Customers, Our Friends, Our Family. Thank You!! Johnny & Jennifer Hart (956) 581-1033 Riverside In-MissionTx Cash Only Price Incl. Tax Riverside Event Center Covered Cushion Seating Enclosed Windows & Heating RIVERSIDE DREAMER River Tours Call (956) 581-4477 Reservations Suggested Additional Tours Added As Needed Private Tours Available 1048 N. Alamo Rd. • Alamo, TX 78516 • Office: 956-783-5008 SATURDAY DANCES Texas Wheels • 7 - 10 pm • $8 New Years with Texas Wheels Tickets on sale now • $20 LINE, ROUND, & SQUARE DANCES Starts Dec. 1 Mon., 10 am • Beginners Line Dance Tues., 10 am - Noon • Round Dance Wed., 10 am • Improver Line Dance Thurs., 10 am • Line Dance Boot Camp Fri., 10 am - Noon • Square Dance With Joel Saltel ENTERTAINMENT Fri. Dec. 2, 2 - 4 pm Curt James • Pass the Hat Fri. Dec. 9, 7 - 10 pm The Howlers • $8 CHURCH SERVICE Sundays • 9 am PICKLEBALL MIXER Thursdays • 9 am - Noon • $2 EDITOR’S NOTE: Items for the Parks Calendar must be open to the public activities in the parks only and must be submitted by park owners, managers or activity directors. Listings must come from the park and are to be submitted on the Winter Texan Times Parks Calendar Submission Form. Request this form from the Winter Texan Times office. Multiple activities may be submitted on the park’s letterhead, provided the same information is provided in the format of the Submission Form. We do not accept listings for reviews, workshops, lessons or dance classes. Submission deadline is Friday noon, the week prior to the publication date. Send to: Winter Texan Times, 1217 N. Conway Ave., Mission, Texas 78572 or email to parkscal@wintertexantimes. com or fax to 956-580-7898. Wednesday, November 30 Breakfast - Bentsen Grove Resort, Palmview, 7:30-9am, Biscuits & gravy or breakfast taco. Dominos - AmeriCana RV Park, Palmview, 10am. Lunch/Dinner - Llano Grande Lake Park Resort and Country Club, Mercedes, 11:30am-7pm, Menu available at Cafe Grande, meal price varies. Jam Session Lunch - Bit-O-Heaven RV Park, Donna, Noon, Menu and price varies. Jam Session - Bit-O-Heaven RV Park, Donna, 1-3pm, Come and play, sing or just listen. All welcome. BYOB. Big Band Jam - Valley View Estates, Mission, 1-3pm, Everyone is invited to come and enjoy the music. To play in the band is by invitation only. 2100 Vernon 319-521-6095. Happy Hour - Leisure World Community, Weslaco, 3-5pm, Diego & Edith, pass the hat. Happy Hour - Sleepy Valley Ranch Resort, Mission, 4-6pm, Rotating schedule of live entertainment, pass the hat. Handmade pizza available from 5-7. Various food items available from 5-6. BS Bar Open - Llano Grande Lake Park Resort and Country Club, Mercedes, 4-9pm, Serving beer, wine, soft drinks. Happy Hour - AmeriCana RV Park, Palmview, 4-6pm. Supper - Big Valley Trailer Park, Donna, 4:30-6pm, Serving all you care to eat pancakes, sausage gravy & biscuits, sausage patties, scrambled eggs, applesauce, and coffee. $7pp. Hamburger Meal - Pleasant Valley Resort, Mission, 5-6pm. Dance - Pleasant Valley Resort, Mission, 6-8pm. Movies in the Lounge - AmeriCana RV Park, Palmview, 6pm. Dance - Tip O’ Texas RV Resort, Pharr, 7-10pm, Steven May & Southern Knights, $7pp. Dance - Llano Grande Lake Park Resort and Country Club, Mercedes, 7-10pm, Renaissance Rockers, $10pp. Event center, Dance - Golf View Estates, Mission, 7pm, Leslie Blasing, $8pp. 7424 Couples Circle, 573-873-5545. Thursday, December 1 Breakfast - Lamplighter Park, Palmview, 7:30am, Biscuits & gravy. Craft Show - Tropic Winds MH & RV Resort, Harlingen, 8am-Noon. Bluegrass Jam - Lamplighter Park, Palmview, 9am. All You Can Eat Pancakes - The Grove Subdivision, San Juan, 9-11am, Pancakes, eggs, sausage, waffles, and endless cups of coffee. Bring your own table service. 83rd & Stewart Rd., 605 E. 7th St. Country Jam - El Valle Del Sol, Mission, 10am-Noon, Free coffee. Lunch - Bentsen Grove Resort, Palmview, 11am-12:30pm, 3 tacos, rice, & beans. Salad Lunch - Golf View Estates, Mission, 11am-1pm, $5pp. 7424 Couples Circle. Lunch/Dinner - Llano Grande Lake Park Resort and Country Club, Mercedes, 11:30am-7pm, Menu available at Cafe Grande, meal price varies. Jam Session - Dixieland MH Park, Harlingen, 1-3pm, Free admission. Happy Hour Dance - Tropic Star RV Resort, Pharr, 3-5pm, Leslie Blasing, pass the hat. Concessions available. 1401 S. Cage Blvd., 956-787-5773. Bible Study - AmeriCana RV Park, Palmview, 3:30pm. BS Bar Open - Llano Grande Lake Park Resort and Country Club, Mercedes, 4-9pm, Serving beer, wine, soft drinks. For more information, photos and tour schedules visit Wintertainers TM at www.wintertexantimes.com www.wintertexantimes.com tainers Winter TM CALENDAR PARKS
9 WINTER TEXAN TIMES www.wintertexantimes.com NOVEMBER 30, 2022 DANCES EVERY FRIDAY 7-10PM SINGLES ARE WELCOME Dec 2 • Night Howlers • $8 Dec 9 • Poison Ivey • $10 Saturday Dec 17 • Retro Rockers • $10 HOMEMADE CAKE DONUTS Dec 7 & 21• Order Ahead (956) 585-0703 Plain, Chocolate, Or Blueberry With Choice Of Vanilla Or Cinnamon Glaze $1 Each, $5.50 for 6, $10 for 12 Wednesday Breakfasts each week, Donuts every other week • 7:30am - 9am Thursday Lunches - Burgers & More • 11am - 12:30pm Monday Night Meals • 4:30pm - 6pm MEALS Dec 3 • 8AM - NOON PARK WIDE YARD SALE 956-585-0703 1645 S Bentsen Palm Drive • Palmview Paula McSpadden Activity Director ALL EVENTS OPEN TO THE PUBLIC Dec 10 • 8AM - NOON CRAFT SHOW Division of Wilder’s Corporation DANCES • EVERY FRIDAY 7-10 PM $7 (Unless Noted) ENTERTAINMENT CRAFT SHOW Dec. 13, 7pm • Razz Ma Tazz • $5 Dec. 14, 7pm • Fiesta Night (Dinner/Show) Edinburg N.H.S. Mariachi Group • $13 Dec. 18, 3pm • Tiny Hill Orchestra • Pass the hat Dec. 3, 8am-Noon Masks Recommended But Not Required For All Events 501 W. Owassa Rd • Pharr, Texas 78577 956-787-6538 FOR INFO/TICKETS Dec. 2 • South Texas Ramblers Dec. 9 • Route 66 Dec. 16 • Southern Vibes Dec. 23 • Ron Moshier Dec. 31 • Jealous Heart • $16 CREDIT CARDS NOW ACCEPTED BIT O HEAVEN RV & MOBILE HOME RESORT 1051W Bus Hwy 83 • Donna,TX 78537 SUSANTHOMAS, ACTIVITY DIRECTOR 603-396-2786 FRIDAYS • DANCES • 7-10PM Dec 2 • The Agency • $10pp Dec 9 • Smokin’ Gun • $8pp Soda, water, popcorn, and snacks for sale, free ice/cups, 50/50 door prizes. TUESDAYS • HAPPYHOUR • 3-5PM PASS THE HAT Diego, 1st Tues, 3:30-5pm Dec 13 • Curt James Dec 20 • Regan James Soda, water, popcorn, and snacks for sale, free ice/cups, BYOB, 50/50 door prizes. WEDNESDAYS • JAMS Jam Lunch • 12pm Menu and price varies Jam Session • 1-3pm All welcome, BYOB Dec 7 • Razz Ma Tazz • $5 WEDNESDAYS • ENTERTAINMENT • 7PM BYOB, snacks SUNDAYS • KARAOKE • 5PM THURSDAYS • SOUPSUPPER • 4:30PM $4 All You Can Eat • Dessert for sale Bring your own table service & beverage El Valle Del Sol Home of The Peppermint Palace 2500 E.Bus Hwy 83 Mission,TX 78572 956-585-5704 10am – Noon Free coffee. Pass The Hat. (Last Jam March 30th) Thursdays • Country Jam Saturday Morning Breakfast 8am – 9:30am • $5.00 pp. Choice of Pancakes, Sausage Gravy, or Egg Bake. Free coffee. (Last Breakfast March 25th ) Resident Craft Sale Saturday Night Dance 7:30am – 10:30am Saturday December 3rd 7pm-10pm • $7pp December 17th • Route 66 8:30pm-12:30am • $15pp • Dec. 31st NewYear’s Eve • Route 66 1pm – 3pm BYOB. (Last Karaoke March 27th) Mondays • Karaoke Loteria (Mexican Bingo) - Sleepy Valley Ranch Resort, Mission, 6-8pm. Acoustic Jam - Palm Gardens, Harlingen, 6-8pm, Fiesta Hall, free admission. 50/50 drawing and refreshments by donation. 3401 W. Bus. 83. Game Nite - AmeriCana RV Park, Palmview, 6pm. Karaoke - Paradise Resort Estates, Pharr, 6:30-9pm, Soda and water available. Complimentary popcorn. Over 40,000 different songs available to sing. Big Band Jam - La Hacienda Estates, Alamo, 6:30-8:30pm, 309-337-8711. Christmas Show - Llano Grande Lake Park Resort and Country Club, Mercedes, 6:30-8pm, Razz Ma Tazz, free admission. Event Center. Dance - Mission Bell Resort, Mission, 7-10pm, Rewind Band, $8pp. 50/50. Dinner available 6pm, BYOB. Advance tickets and table reservations call 956-5854833 ext. 1062. Bingo - Enchanted Valley Ranch, Mission, 7-9pm. Dance - Pine to Palm Resort, Weslaco 7-10pm, Steven May & The Southern Knights, $8pp. BYOB. Pop & water available for sale, free ice. Karaoke - Alamo Rec-Veh Park, 7pm, Southern Stars. $7pp door. Friday, December 2 All Park Garage Sale - Fiesta Village, Mission, 8am-Noon. Park Patio Sale - Rio Valley Estates MH & RV Resort, Weslaco, 8am-Noon, 715 N. Westgate Dr. Park Wide Patio Sales - Restful Valley Ranch, Mission, 8am-Noon. Lunch/Dinner - Llano Grande Lake Park Resort and Country Club, Mercedes, 11:30am-7pm, Menu available at Cafe Grande, meal price varies. Garza Produce - Pleasant Valley Resort, Mission, 11:30am, Outside Club House. Country “Opry” Jam - McAllen Mobile Park, 1-3pm, Free, hosted by National Traditional Country Music Hall of Fame inductee Elaine Nelson. Great country music like Nashville USED to do! Listen, sing, clap your hands, tap your toes, smile a smile and remember when! Snacks and drinks. Life’s a song... sing it! Variety Jam - Bentsen Palm RV Park, Mission, 1-3pm, Come play along or just come to listen and visit. Happy Hour - Ranchero Village, Weslaco, 3-5pm, Diego, pass the hat. Concession open, BYOB. BS Bar Open - Llano Grande Lake Park Resort and Country Club, Mercedes, 4-9pm, Serving beer, wine, soft drinks. Fish Fry - Mission West RV Park, Palmview, 4:30-5:30pm, Fish, slaw, & french fries. Steak Nite - AmeriCana RV Park, Palmview, 5pm, RSVP required. Karaoke with Bobby Jack - Sleepy Valley Ranch Resort, Mission, 5:30-9pm, Karaoke following supper. Menu varies from week to week, $8pp. Fish fry, $9pp. Country Music Jam - Hidden Valley Ranch RV & MH Park, Mission, 5:30pm, All welcome. Jean Closson, 717-8778375. Dance - Fiesta Village, Mission, 6-9pm, Sweetwater, $7pp-$10pp. Dance - Bentsen Grove Resort, Palmview, 7pm, Night Howler’s, $8pp. Friday Night Dance - Fun N Sun Resort, San Benito, 7pm, Texas Wheels, $8pp door. Dance - Casa del Sol, Donna, 7-10pm, The Howlers, $8pp. Dance - Bit-O-Heaven RV Park, Donna, 7-10pm, The Agency, rock n roll, $10pp. Soda, water, popcorn, snacks for sale, free ice/cups, 50/50 door prizes. Dance - Alamo Rose RV and MH Resort, 7-10pm, Steven May, $7pp. Doors open at 6:30 pm. Please no bills larger than $20. Ice and set-ups available. Dance - Texas Trails RV Resort, Pharr, 7-10pm, South Texas Ramblers, $7pp. Dance - Valley View Estates, Mission, 7-10pm, Whisky Dent. 2100 Vernon 319521-6095. Entertainment - Eastgate RV & MH Park, Harlingen, 7pm, Pat Davidson & Tess, magician, $8pp. For more information call 956-423-3137. Dance - Winter Ranch RV Resort, Alamo, 7-10pm, Rewind, $10pp. Country & Big Band Jam - Palm Shadows RV/MH Park, Donna, 7pm, Musicians by invitation only. Dance - Victoria Palms Resort, Donna, 7-10pm, DJ Doty, $7pp. 80’s theme. Saturday, December 3 Flea Market - Winter Green Estates, Mission, 7am-Noon, Wide variety of items including Christmas decorations, appliances, furniture, clothing, outdoor pieces, golf equipment, lamps, pictures, electronics, & tools. All Park Sale - Winter Haven Park, Pharr, 7-11am, Tools, furniture, crafts, and more. Park Breakfast - Golf View Estates, Mission, 7:30-8:45am, $8pp. 7424 CouFor more information, photos and tour schedules visit Wintertainers TM at www.wintertexantimes.com www.wintertexantimes.com tainers Winter TM See PARKS pg. 10
NOVEMBER 30, 2022 www.wintertexantimes.com 10 WINTER TEXAN TIMES 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 TicketsGoOnSale January2023 FEB. 15 • 1 - 4 PM Lunch Available 12 - 1 PM Mission Bell Resort 1711 E. Bus. 83 - Mission BringingYou SixGreat WintertainersTM SAVE THE DATE Valley Star AWARDSSHOW 11thAnnual F E B 15 2023 ples Circle. Arts & Craft Show/Sale - El Valle Del Sol, Mission, 7:30-10:30am. Park Wide Yard Sale - Bentsen Grove Resort, Palmview, 8am-Noon. All Park Garage Sale - Fiesta Village, Mission, 8am-Noon. Patio Sales - Ranchero Village, Weslaco, 8am-Noon. Yard Sale/Lunch - Bentsen Palm RV Park, Mission, 8am-1pm, Lunch served 11:00 - 1:00. Chunky BBQ, potato salad, cake, $6pp. All Park Yard Sale - Paradise Resort Estates, Pharr, 8am-Noon, 301 E. Hall Acres Rd. Park Wide Yard Sales - Citrus Mobile Home and RV Park, Edinburg, 8amNoon. Park Sale - Valhalla Park, Edinburg, 8am-4pm. Breakfast - Paradise Park, McAllen, 8-9am. Patio Sales - Alamo Palms MH & RV Park, 8-11am, 1341 W. Business Hwy 83. Saturday Morning Breakfast - El Valle Del Sol, Mission, 8-9:30am, Pancakes or sausage gravy or egg bake, $5pp. Free coffee. Park Wide Patio Sales - Restful Valley Ranch, Mission, 8am-Noon. Breakfast - Alamo Paradise Acres, 8-9:30am, 1513 West Crockett. All Park Patio Sale - Royal Palms Mobile Park, Alamo, 8am-Noon, Welcome to all. Craft Show - Eastgate RV & MH Park, Harlingen, 9am-2pm, Christmas Bazaar, lunch available at 10am. For more information call 956-423-3137. Craft Fair - Llano Grande Lake Park Resort and Country Club, Mercedes, 9am-1pm, Homemade and purchased crafts, free admission. Rec Hall. Coffee Clutch - AmeriCana RV Park, Palmview, 9am. Breakfast - AmeriCana RV Park, Palmview, 9am. Yahoo - Restful Valley Ranch, Mission, 10am. Country Jam Lunch - Green Gate Grove, Palmview, 11:10am-Noon, We will be serving lunches before the Country Jam. Lunch/Dinner - Llano Grande Lake Park Resort and Country Club, Mercedes, 11:30am-7pm, Menu available at Cafe Grande, meal price varies. Country Jam - Green Gate Grove, Palmview, 12:30pm, Everyone is invited to this jam to either play or listen to country music. Questions call 956-540-8463. 2135 S. Bentsen Palm Dr. Jam - Big Valley Trailer Park, Donna, 12:30pm, Curly Klaphake, donation. Everyone welcome. Rock & Roll/Big Band Jam - McAllen Mobile Park, 2-4pm, Come get your rock and roll or big band fix. Jams are Saturdays from 2-4 thru December. Musicians and vocalists are by invitation only. There will be room for dancing and a great dessert table. See you there. Entertainment - Mission Bell Resort, Mission, 3-5pm, The Castaways Beach Party, $7pp. Advance tickets call 956585-4833 ext. 1062. Concessions available. Wear your flowered shirts! BS Bar Open - Llano Grande Lake Park Resort and Country Club, Mercedes, 4-9pm, Serving beer, wine, soft drinks. December B-day Party - AmeriCana RV Park, Palmview, 5pm, Carlos Canas. Bingo - Pharr South Park, Pharr, 6:30-9:30pm, Snacks and refreshments available for purchase. No outside food or beverages. Dinner is served 5-6pm. Menu varies weekly and you must sign up prior at Pharr South. Dance - McAllen Mobile Park, 7-10pm, Take a trip back to your youth with the awesome Retro Rockers, $9pp. Be there or be square! Dance - Sleepy Valley Ranch Resort, Mission, 7-10pm, Renaissance Rockers, $10pp. Handmade pizza available from 5-7pm. Dance - Casa del Valle Resort Park, Alamo, 7-10pm, Texas Wheels, $8pp. Dance - Paradise Resort Estates, Pharr, 7-10pm, Route 66. Doors open at 6:15pm. Snack bar open. Dance - Sunshine RV Resort, Harlingen, 7-10pm, Curt James, $7pp. Doors open 6:30pm. Popcorn and ice cream bars on sale. Dance - La Hacienda Estates, Alamo, 7-10pm, Steven May & The Southern Knights, $7pp. Dance - Sunshine RV Resort, Harlingen, 7-10pm, Curt James. Friendship Hall, 1900 Grace Ave. Gate and doors open at 6:30 pm. Entertainment - Pleasant Valley Resort, Mission, 7-10pm, Southern Vibes, $7pp. Rec Hall. PARKS From pg. 9 For more information, photos and tour schedules visit Wintertainers TM at www.wintertexantimes.com www.wintertexantimes.com tainers Winter TM See PARKS pg. 20
11 WINTER TEXAN TIMES www.wintertexantimes.com NOVEMBER 30, 2022 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, 2023. 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 STEC holds Christmas celebration, speaker series The South Texas Ecotourism Center (STEC) Laguna Vista will hold a Christmas celebration next week. The celebration will be held on Thursday, December 8 from 6 to 9 p.m. The event will feature Santa, food and craft vendors, and holiday performances. Admission to the event is free. STEC will also be holding their Fall Speaker Series this coming month. The series is held every first and third Wednesday at 6:30 p.m. Refreshments are free, and the center will stay open until 8:30 p.m. December 7 speaker series will be a screening of the film “Deep in the Heart.” The film is a visually stunning celebration of Texas’ diverse landscapes and remarkable wildlife found nowhere else. The film aims to conserve our remaining wild places, to show the connectivity of water and wildlife, and to recognize the importance of conservation on a continental scale. While “Deep in the Heart” focuses on the wildlife of one region, the message is universal – restoring wildlife island habitats is an essential part of our environmental mission. The film spotlights inspirational solutions that are sure to be embraced by naturalists, wildlife enthusiasts, and nature lovers and students. On December 21, Texas Master Naturalist and SPI Birding Center Educator Javier Gonzalez will present SPI Birding Center: Christmas Bird Count. The Christmas Bird Count is the nation’s longest-running community science bird project. Bird counts are done from December 14 through January 5 each year by thousands of volunteers throughout America. The National Audubon, and other organizations, use data collected to assess the health of bird populations and to help guide conservation actions. For more information, visit https:// www.audubon.org/conservation/ history-christmas-bird-count, or call your local state park. STEC is located at 501 W. State Hwy. 100 in Laguna Vista. For more information about these events, and others, call (956) 772-0212 Professor provides another look into the legacy of Juan Cortina The Museum of South Texas History welcomes author Marie Theresa Hernández, Ph.D., as a featured presenter during the Sunday Speaker Series presentation, “History, Terror, Imagination: Stories of Juan N. Cortina” at 2 p.m. on December 4. Texas folklorist J. Frank Dobie describes Cortina as the “most striking, the most powerful, the most insolent, and the most daring as well as the most elusive Mexican bandit, not even excepting Pancho Villa, that ever wet his horse in the muddy waters of the Rio Bravo.” The greatgreat grandson of Blas de la Garza Falcón, Cortina came to national prominence when he attacked Brownsville in September 1859 and began what is known as the “Cortina War.” History has often framed Juan Cortina as a bandit and a murderer. While many stories tell of his savagery, he is also seen as a brilliant military commander and a man of many gifts that were overshadowed by violence. Hernández’s presentation will explore the complicated life and man that was Juan Cortina. Hernández is a professor at the University of Houston. She earned Courtesy Photo See PROFESSOR pg. 19
NOVEMBER 30, 2022 www.wintertexantimes.com 12 WINTER TEXAN TIMES Elliott’s Custom Golf 712 N 77 Sunshine Strip #20 Harlingen, TX 78550 (877) 428-5448 • elliott@customclubs.net SKYTRACK LAUNCH MONITOR Improve your game and receive instant and real-time 3D shot analysis and ball-flight data. Identify strengths, weaknesses & dispersion • Bag Mapping to select the right clubs on the course • Wedge Matrix to master short game Five Star Customer Ratings - Google Reviews COMPUTERIZED CUSTOM CLUB FITTING a difference on you, they remain something that, as Charles Swindoll said, “never have a second chance.” The following is a look at some of the first impressions provided by Lower Valley golf courses. Don’t forget to vote for your favorites by December 7. Brownsville Golf Center 1800 W. San Marcelo Blvd., Brownsville Brownsville Golf Center has prided itself for a long time as the golf course that gives the most bang for the buck. It’s true that the rates are among the best in the Rio Grande Valley, but don’t let that sway you into a comfort zone, meaning everything is easy here. It’s a well-laid out golf course with its own bag of tricks. It’s fairly open and the wind will at times dance with your ball. But it’s a great GOLF From pg. 1 place to play at whatever skill level one is at. It has holes that make the “pound-my-chest” golfer have to think and decide at times how much should I cut off, should I go for it, or just lay up one or another. It has plenty of forgiveness for the new, lower-skilled golfer just looking for a nice day out. That’s what makes it so attractive, its appeal to the masses. And that is what this municipal golf course has vowed to be and remains so. Long Island Village 950 S. Garcia St., Port Isabel Driving across the bridge and intercoastal waterway is a simple joy in itself. When it calls itself a village, it’s totally accurate – a small clan of friendly, golf crazed folks with a course that plays nothing like people’s first impression. That’s an immediate wake-up call. Even though it’s a par-3 course, it plays like something else. The challenges are many and immense – but there’s something about it that’s exciting and invigorating. Golfers talk about going up or down 3-4 clubs based on the ever-present and sometimes gusting wind. One golfer reviewed it and wrote that it was the toughest course he ever played… that’s saying a lot. But there’s no doubt it’s fun and the challenge is incredibly inviting for all levels. One has to experience this golf course at least once Rancho Viejo Resort and Country Club 1 Rancho Viejo Dr., Rancho Viejo As one drives along the expressway and notices the “golf ball in the sky” that marks the presence of Rancho Viejo Golf and Country Club, there is more of a sense of a “tourist trap” than anything else. Once one reaches that destination, it’s anything but a trap – it’s more of a tourist’s dream come true. There’s nothing about this property – which includes mouth-watering food from its restaurant, beautiful rental facilities for a nice, long stay and all the amenities needed for golf (oh, and a wonderful outdoor service bar… terrific). It’s a one-stop shop and can be stopped at for a day, or a week or longer. Oh, and then there’s the golf course. The course, which already had a great layout that challenged golfers with risk-or-reward style golf, has improved steadily during the past few years. It’s tantalizing, refreshing and relaxing. But it also is a challenge for the golfers’ skills and minds, so don’t get too relaxed. River Bend Resort & Golf Club 4541 US 281, Brownsville The biggest impression one might leave after a round at this scenic golf course, nestled within the River Bend community, is that every time out it seems like a different course. The tees and holes are strategicalLong Island Village Courtesy Photo Rancho Viejo Resort Photo by Henry Miller
13 WINTER TEXAN TIMES www.wintertexantimes.com NOVEMBER 30, 2022 Serving Valleywide for 35 years Sales • Parts • Rentals • Service Drive Around In Your Brand New Golf Cart Today! ezridegolfcars@sbcglobal.net www.easyridegolfcars.com 2508 W. Interstate Hwy 2 Mission, TX 78572 TREAT YOURSELF To The New 2023 Evolution Electric Vehicle •2 Year Warranty• •Street Legal• •Lithium Battery• (5 Year Warranty) Easy Ride Golf Cars 956-580-3370 Dealer From Our Family To Yours ly set up so where every shot could end up is coming from a different angle. The course has enough elevation changes and hazards to make it seem brand new every time. No. 17, a 220-yard par-3 along the levy is a perfect example. The setup is a beautiful view (or views) and can range in level of difficulty based on which tees it’s played from and how the wind is blowing – and from where. The hills (yes, you read that right) provide a unique challenge to a mostly hill-less Valley when it comes to golf. The 397-yard par-4 forces a golfer to come from different angles off the tee box and have to prepare for a semi-grand elevation change, leaving golfers more often than not a blind shot going into the green. If you hit too close to the right, you won’t be able to hit over the magnificent South Oaks on this magnificent course and club. South Padre Island Golf Course 1 Golf House Rd., Laguna Vista If someone told a golfer at South Padre Island Golf Course that they had to play holes No. 3 and 4 nine times apiece, nobody would mind one bit. That’s how breathtaking the view is from those two holes. The course’s signature hole, a not-very-long par-3 is the beauty pageant winner of South Texas. A small lake starts up behind the tee, runs down the side, snakes its way across the fairway between tee and green that runs back into the bay. Standing on the tee, however, is the view of views. “It’s the island with all the condos and hotels,” said director of golf Jack Blundell. “You see it all. Boats going by, fishermen, the beautiful waterway and the massive bridge on the right-hand side. The hole is just built for that view.” That view has also been the site of many wedding photos. But it’s not over yet. The par-5 No. 4 is a perfect follow-up. Waters sits to the right and once a golfer realizes he’s playing golf and gets to the green, the view is once again amazing with the island, the peninsula and Holly Beach. “You see all that,” Blundell said. “It’s just a magnificent view. “And, it’s a lot of fun to play.” Valley International Country Club 301 McFadden Dr., Brownsville As attendance dropped nationwide on golf courses around the country, instead of following the norm, VICC created a plan to increase the golfing experience for its residents and visitors. The results have been obvious. The course has been maintained like a beautiful garden, paying attention to the greens, fairways and vegetation all over the course. But it has been more than just the course that has seen a lot of tender, loving care. The pro shop, once kind of barren, has been stocked with apparel and accessories, the dining room is lovely and the food, well, the food has been exquisite. From the moment one parks and walks through the main building, there’s something peaceful about this course – even on a bad day. It seems no matter what type of round you have had here, you leave with a good impression and, because we all know golfers hit at least one great shot around, you’ll be back for more of the total experience. River Bend Resort Photo by Henry Miller South Padre Island Golf Course Courtesy Photo
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