March 16, 2022 - Winter Texan Times, Vol. 35, No. 22 by Winter Texan Times

r e t n Wi n a x e T

TIMES

TAKE HOME EDITION

Activity directors create fun-packed schedules

Noah (3 years) and Grace (6 months) Young dressed up as their favorite friends, a couple of Winter Texans, when they couldn’t get out and visit them at Mission Bell Resort for Halloween in 2020. Photo courtesy of Sara and Caleb Young

What is a Winter Texan?

By Theresa Grant (originally published March 11, 1988) Editor’s Note: If you are asking yourself what is a Winter Texan? – this edition is for you. As we were going through our back issues, we found this lovely piece from our first season of Winter Texan Times file photo by the Winter TexDoug Young an Times. We thought what better way to tell what a Winter Texan is than to let 11-year-old Theresa tell you from her point of view. Before I turn it over to Theresa, if I am not the first, let me be the next to invite you to the Rio Grande Valley (RGV) to discover this hidden gem for yourself. We know what our Winter Texans love about the RGV. They love the climate, the people, the fun, the activities, and so much more. This issue will tell you a lot more about why Winter Texans visit the RGV - why they come for one visit, and then keep on coming back year after year. Theresa Grant is the 11-year-old granddaughSee WINTER TEXANS pg. 19

The Rio Grande Valley’s Winter Texan scene isn’t the quiet, gem in the rough secret that it once was. For the winter visitors, that’s a good thing – especially when it comes to entertainment. Winter Texans are known for having fun. The Valley provides tons of it too. More and more Wintertainers™ are coming to the Valley to entertain Winter Texans. The growth can be attributed to enSee FUN pg. 23

The weather keeps bringing them back

The beautiful subtropical weather of South Texas and the Rio Grande Valley is definitely one of the biggest attractions for Winter Texans. There could be as much as a 100-degree difference between South Texas and places like Northern Minnesota or South Dakota. The Rio Grande Valley is definitely a joy to live in, especiallyiftheotheroptionincludes snow, ice and all things frozen. The average high between December and February runs from See WEATHER pg. 26

Parks Calendar p 15 • WintertainersTM p 15 • Taste of the Valley p 21 • Medical Services p 28 • Events Calendar p 30 • Reunions & Meetings p 31 • Business Guide p 32 • Classifieds p 32

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Winter Texans more active than ever

Champion Lakes Golf Course (formerly Palm View) is booked almost daily with Winter Texans, later into the afternoon than in past years. Pickleball courts are being built at Starbucks-like pace across the Valley – both indoors and outdoors to keep up with demand. Disc golf, biking and kayaking are also among the activities growing in popularity as COVID-19 loosens its stranglehold and Winter Texans look for more ways to stay healthy and have some active recreational – and even competitive – hobbies. Golf Carlos Espinosa, director of golf for the City of McAllen and Champion Lakes, said if the COVID-19 pandemic had one positive result; it was that it brought health to the forefront of many people’s lives. Home gyms were bought at a meteoric rate as people refused to leave the confines of their homes. However, when they did search out some outdoor air and health-conscious activities, golf was the first one to return. And Winter Texans came back to the courses in droves.

“What really stood out this year is that for the past 12-15 years, Champion Lakes would get Winter Tex-

ans during the week but the crowd would die off around 12:30 or 1 p.m.,” Espinosa said. “This year it goes all the way to 4 or 4:30 p.m. on weekdays. There’s no doubt there are more people playing golf.

“The fact is that in today’s world, the caution about being healthy is attracting people to the game. It’s great exercise every day, it’s not a contact sport, you’re not limited at any age, and you can go play whenever.” Espinosa said a lot of times that the health benefits of golf can be overlooked. That changed during the pandemic. “People play for that reason now because they’re staying healthy,” he said. “I’m gonna

say a majority of people play for that reason more than for the game itself.” Pickleball Pickleball is a hybrid of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong. According to USA Pickleball, the sport has more than 4.2 million players and grew by a

meteoric 39.3% during the past two years and 60% of the core players, those who play eight or more times a year, are 55 and older. The Economist named the activity the fastest-growing sport in the United States in 2020 and 2021. But you don’t need to read that, just go to

one of the many courts that are popping up across the Valley faster than nail salons – in Winter Texan parks and public parks or recreation centers, and it’s obvious as there are signup sheets ready at most of these locations with players waiting to be “next.”

Casa Del Valle in Alamo holds a weekly Pickleball Mixer that’s open to the public from 9 a.m. until noon every Thursday. With six outdoor courts there can be as many as 24 pickleballers playing at any one time. The games move fast enough for those waiting to get onto a court quickly and the mixer often runs long due to the overwhelming popularity and growth. Some parks have indoor air-conditioned courts as well. Most parks also have set times for open play and for the various skill levels from beginners to advanced-skilled players. Disc Golf While golf is enjoying a resurgence and pickleball is the hottest active trend – in the Valley and around the country - disc golf is pushing its way through as the next big thing. The Professional Disc Golf Association reported that the sport took 41 years to get to the first 100,000 members. From 2019 to 2021 the sport doubled in growth and hit the 200,000 mark. Despite being around for a while the sport is still considered in its infancy. However, it is also one of the activities, like golf, that grew during the pandemic and for similar reasons. Udisc.com reports there are six Valley courses – two in McAllen, and one each in San Juan, Weslaco, Harlingen and Brownsville. But there is more There are so many more things to do for fun at the parks – shuffleboard and cycling are still very popular, as well as woodworking, dances, socials and dinners, movie nights, and arts and crafts. Some of the resorts even offer lapidary shops, many have quilting, sewing and See ACTIVE pg. 28

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You can find nature and more at Valley birding and nature centers

story sur- any weekday, according to Melissa capacity reached 408,000 gallons a r o u n d i n g Sanchez, pumphouse director, with minute, fast enough to fill an Olymthe Pum- capacity for 40 people. The phone pic-size pool in 20 seconds. All of p h o u s e ’ s number is (956) 843-8686. the pumps are there for viewing. importance The latest tour was for residents A bonus is a look at the RGV to agricul- of San Juan Gardens Park. Because Rails Club’s model train layout that ture, plus of the large number who came, visi- is spread over a large area of a Puma glimpse tors were split with half going on the phouse lower floor, not far from back to trolley ride and the other half given a the large pumps. If you come any when modWednesday beel railroadtween 10 a.m. ing was of and noon, one interest to will find Red Birdwatching at Frontera Audubon many kids. Knepfler at the There’s controls of the By Herb Moering trains or workBird watchers have many oppor- also a 4.5-mile round trip biking and ing on maintetunities to follow their hobby, in- walking trail. Bikers are likely to not nance. cluding the World Birding Center only see Kiskadees, Kingfishers, carThe head of (WBC) network of nine different dinals, hummingbirds, and pelicans, the Rio Grande sites set along a 120-mile historic but also an occasional Border Patrol Valley Rails trail in the Rio Grande Valley. It is a and National Guard member. Winter Texans Steve and Sharon Club is inviting $20 million development based on a any model railpartnership between the Texas Parks Warren walked the grounds, who had Model Train display at Hidalgo Pumphouse roader to bring & Wildlife Department, U.S. Fish come from Palm Shadows RV Park in Donna, where the South Dakota their HO scale & Wildlife Service and Rio Grande couple have been staying since 2017. tour of the museum., which was later trains and run them around the exValley communities. tensive layout, which has been at the The nine sites vary dramatically Her husband said Sharon’s birding reversed. Depending upon the weather, the museum for some 20 years. Knepin landscape, but all serve as home now includes a list of 464 different at times for more than 500 species of species she has seen. The latest they trolley tour can include going to fler, who is a year-round resident of birds. This area serves as two major saw was the rare Bat Falcon, seen for the river and seeing the stamigratory corridors with many of the the first in the U.S. at the Santa Ana tion that was built a half-mile away in the early ‘80s with 10 birds found at Bentsen RGV Park in Wildlife Refuge recently. Visitors have a choice of touring electric pumps. The old steam Mission, Edinburg Scenic Wetlands, powered pumphouse, Estro Llano Grande abandoned in 1983, in Weslaco, Harlinwas put into operation gen Arroyo Coloraat the start of the 20th do, Quinta Mazatlán Century, making this in McAllen, Resaa “Magic Valley” by ca de la Palma in turning Hidalgo CounBrownsville, Roma ty into a year-round agBluffs, South Padre ricultural powerhouse. Island Birding and The hurricane of Nature Center and 1933 shifted the Rio the unique Old HiBat Falcon. Photo by Nestor Hernandez Grande River a halfdalgo Pumphouse. mile away from the Old Hidalgo pumphouse, requiring the Mission West Resort, can be reached Pumphouse digging of a canal to the at (313) 532-8549. The trainman said Going to the Old river. Initially there were he has about 150 cars of rolling stock City of Hidalgo Pumjust two pumps installed in of his own, which include many tophouse is a little like Nutria at Santa Ana Wildlife Refuge. Photo by Frank Aguirre 1909 in the old pumphouse bacco and whiskey labeled cars as having the winning trifecta ticket at the track. Not only the WBC grounds and Pumphouse with others added over the years to well as corporate general commoddoes one visit the first of the nine Museum on their own or can make send water to farm fields and cities ity cars. WBC sites, but there’s the intriguing a reservation for a trolley ride on via irrigation canals. Total pumping See NATURE pg. 20

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WINTER TEXAN TIMES

Growth of RC racing in RGV parks has been FAST AND FURIOUS

by Barb Zanetti In the Rio Grande Valley, Winter Texan racers can drive to over 30 RC tracks within an hour, prompting them to label southwest Texas: “The RC Capital of the U.S.”

“There’s no place that I know of in the country that has a bigger concentration of RC tracks,” ARVP race director Mike Fleming said. “If you really want to race, you can easily race at least four or five times a week during the season. It’s good, friendly competition with fellow Winter Texans.” There’s a substantial bit of racing in the Valley. “I don’t think anyone, anywhere in the country races any more laps than we Winter Texans do … That means more races and more laps,” Fleming said. “This allows you to get a lot of experience and a good chance to develop your skill set.” In the Valley, RC racetrack building and the addition of radio-controlled activities haven’t slowed. “Now almost every time I pass an RV park, I see an RC racetrack that wasn’t there before,” ARVP racer Mike Benoit, said. “They’re popping up everywhere.” However, racetracks in the Valley were at one time limited to the Harlingen area. History of Valley racing The first known publicly run RC

track in southwest Texas was an offroad gas 1/8th scale track that was built in Harlingen over 40 years ago, according to Jerry Lewis, a longtime pro racer. He now runs the radio-control racing program at RGV RC Raceway in Harlingen. T h e very first RC track might have been the one Lewis built. “Holy Cow! I’ve been in racing for 50 some years,” Lewis said, reflecting on his racing past. “I believe I built the first off-road track in my front yard. We ran it for four or five years until my wife made me close it because it was taking too much time away from our family.” T h e 2 0 0 5 RC OffR o a d Nationals, held at the Harlingen’s F a i r Park fac i l i t y, d r e w over 200 c o m petitors from as far away as China and the Philippines. He said that racing in the Harlingen area was thriving then. For seven or eight years off-road racing was featured during the city park’s Rio Fest in the 1990’s. “That grass racing event was like Tulsa, Oklahoma’s Chili Bowl,” he

said. “They came from Houston, from all over to race.” The city gave the racers a patch of grass for their course at this festival-like event. “We took lawn mowers out there and cut the grass all the way down to the roots and then we raked up the grass,” he said, describing what went into preparing for the annual race. “We actually cut out a track in the middle of the grass,” he said, “Then we put some pipe down, and we ran our electric cars on grass.” He said people loved racing on that unique surface. “You take your car and put it on grass,” he said, “and they’re popping wheelies and everything else because there’s so much traction.” The only issue was the car’s batt e r y l i f e , which Lewis described “as only lasting f o u r m i n utes ... if you w e r e lucky because w e didn’t have lipos back then.” Because the races were so short, no one could afford to make a mistake, he said. “The t-shirts we made up read: We did it in the grass for four minutes,” he said. “They were really popular.” Lewis sees the sheer number of

tracks in the Valley as an indicator that there is a resurgence of racing here. He’s hoping that there’s the possibility that all RGV racers can get together at one big event. First RV park to build RC track The first off-road track at a Winter Texan park in the Valley was built at Penitas RV park over 16 years ago by Jack Westcott and a group of racers in Penitas. At one time he said they had 10 to 20 Winter Texan parks racing there. “We’re the only park that uses handicap racing,” he said. “I figure out the averages every week. We drop off one week. Then we add the last three weeks that they race and that’s their handicap.” Numbers around the track indicate where the racers start. That way, he said, the beginning racer has a chance to win. “It takes me six hours every week just to figure out handicaps,” Westcott said. “But it gives everybody a chance to win, just like bowling is handicapped.” An octogenarian, he said the track will keep running as long as he can walk up and down the steps [to the drivers stand]. He likes the fact that so many new racetracks have been built in the Valley. He wishes that were true See RC RACING pg. 22

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You’ll receive a warm welcome in Texas

Time and again, Winter Texans word of how much they enjoy list friendliness as big a reason to live their new – or returning – winhere.Notonlydoesthatincludetheir ter home. neighbors in the park or other parks, Larry Boggs, a Winter Texan who but also the people in the commu- hailsfromBranson,MOsaid,“They nity who are happy to have Winter welcome you with open arms from Texans the mobecause mentyou they apget here. preciate We have the ecomade so nomic m a n y and othfriends er benehere. fits they We have bring to m o r e the Valfriends ley. h e r e Alan than we Johndo back ston re- Progreso Winter Tourist Appreciation Day, 2018. Photo by home.” Herb Moering members coming to the Rio Grande Valley “We’ve been to Florida,” said from Minnesota over 30 years ago. Darlene Neel, of Tinley Park, IL, as One of the first things John- she and her husband spent a winter ston saw were signs that said, at Chimney Park in Mission. When “Welcome Back Winter Tex- they were looking for a place to ans.” move, they checked out both FlorAfter the couple’s unimpres- ida and Arizona – and the decision sive experiences in Arizona to come to South Texas was an and Florida the previous two easy one. “It’s not anywhere near as seasons, the warm welcome in friendly [as Texas].” South Texas was just what they Johnston said the friendliness needed. The friendly people isn’t limited to the folks in the here made them feel right at parks, but it is just a part of the home. local culture in the communi“We went to Florida first and ty as well. He said it feels very the people on the East Coast, much like that Midwestern hosthey were too much, and the pitality that he’s used to. ones on the West Coast said, “We love it because it’s not a ‘When are you going to go back (typical) tourist area; it’s a place to Minnesota.’” Johnston said that we feel very comfortable, while the couple enjoyed a local and people have the Midwest event last year. “Then the next values. God bless the Valley! We year, we went to Phoenix, and just love it here!” we couldn’t get a place to park There are “Welcome Home” our motorhome unless we were fiestas as winter guests begin to going to stay for a month. That arrive in the Fall. Most RGV snobbishness didn’t appeal to communities host “Winter Texus.” an Appreciation” events at the As new Winter Texans get end of the winter season as well. situated in their park, they are Business owners and governalready making new friends. ment officials will talk about Those open arms and friendly, relationships that were built, caring faces are a big reason that commonly calling the winter Winter Texans stay, and share See WELCOME pg. 28

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The chief said the majority of illegal immigrants are apprehended by U.S. Border Patrol agents at the Rio Grande River. Most of those crossing into the country from Mexico willingly surrender to the Border Patrol knowing what the process is that follows. Progreso Winter Tourist Appreciation Day, 2018. PhoThe City of McAlto by Herb Moering len is continually noted as one of the top For decades, the Rio Grande Valley of Texas has been a favor- safest cities in the United States ite destination for retirees from and Texas. Brownsville and Edthe Midwest and Canada look- inburg are often at the top of the ing to head south for the win- list as well. Winter Texans often go to ter to escape the snow, ice and cold, harsh weather. In addition Mexico, feeling quite safe when to the warm, semi-tropical cli- in Nuevo Progreso. This small mate here in the Rio Grande border town is frequently visited Valley (RGV), Winter Texans by Winter Texans who go there frequently tell us they enjoy the for cheap prescriptions, low-cost friendly people here, the many dentistry and to enjoy the food activities available to enjoy in and beverages offered at the lothe mobile home and RV parks cal Mexican restaurants. Progreand resorts, and the camaraderie so hosts a big Tourist Appreciawith other Winter Texans who tion Day celebration on March spend three to six months in 21 of each year. Susan Thomas, the Bit-OSouth Texas each winter. Besides the warm weather, Heaven RV & MH Park activity director, said she has always felt they come because it’s fun! safe with border crossings. There But is it safe? With all the news about im- haven’t been any problems in migrants and border walls, some their park. “It’s safer here than in Milfolks up north have wondered if it is safe to come down to South waukee (Wisconsin) where I grew up,” said Fred Kosanke, Texas for the winter. “It’s very safe,” said Mission Po- who starting wintering in the liceChiefRobertDominguez,inre- Valley in 2006. He says many sponding to the question of security border crossers with long future in the mid-Rio Grande Valley. He court dates go up north to find noted that Mission has experienced work. Gordon Koch, from Cedar a decrease in crime for several years. And that’s in a city that has always Falls, IA, has been coming here for 18 years. “I go to Progreso been regarded as safe. Dominguez, who said the de- and it’s as safe here as any place crease in crime mirrors what has in the country,” he said. Steve Chyril, from Ontario, happened in other Valley communities, attributes the safer en- pointed out that Llano Grande vironment to a “united effort” Park, like many other parks, between local, county, state and have their own park security, making it safer for residents. federal enforcement efforts.

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Get more for your dollar in the Valley

As a younger generation move to the Valley, it seems they are more frugal when it comes to where they go. They want to have a great time, but they don’t want to spend the money they’ve saved and earned to go just toward living expenses. They want to live it up – from dances and shows to trips to South Padre Island and Nuevo Progreso, Mexico and, of course all the free events that take place on a daily occurrence at the RV resorts. Progreso is as much a Winter Texan hotspot as any place on the U.S. side of the Rio Grande. Arts, crafts, medicine as well as deliciously prepared adult beverages (which some may consider medicine) and a world of exquisite fajitas, enchiladas and other Mexican fare call out to visitors from the north on a regular basis. Some will drive across and park on the one main street that is crammed with shops, restaurants and pharmacies on both sides of the road. Others will take the short walk across the Progreso International Bridge and enjoy the small tourist destination that way. The annual “Best Places to Live” index regularly has cities such as Harlingen, McAllen and Mission in their top 100 in the nation, and top 15 in Texas. The median cost of homes is usually the greatest contributor to that, and other, indexes but

other categories that rank high include cost of groceries, health care, utilities and housing in general. This year’s new report by Porch looking at cost-of-living differences at the state and metro levels throughout the United States has the McAllen-Edinburg-Mission metro area as the fifth most affordable place to live in their midsize U.S. metro category. This is partly based on how far a dollar can go in the area compared to other metro areas in the U.S. “As a Winter Texan, we enjoy the weather, cost of living, fresh fruit, veggies. There’s great medical care and in 10 hours by plane we can be back in Alaska,” said one Winter Texan – and Arizona is closer to them. While the cost of living is very economical for the area, the Winter Texan parks offer a whole other type of economies. Entertainers from Nashville, Vegas and Branson, MO will enjoy the low cost of living while putting on shows here during the winter months; some entertainers – affectionately known as “Wintertainers” - will perform at 40, 50 or more RV and mobile home parks/resorts. The usual charge per person is only $7 or $8. For a two-hour show, sometimes with 250 or more in attendance, it’s a win-win for everyone. Even the lunch speSee CHEAP pg. 28

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Autumn Acres: Close knit community with plenty to do

It was just a little bit after 9:30 a.m. when Karen Howie, property manager of Autumn

Acres in Brownsville, answered the phone. It took no time at all to real-

ize some type of event was being held as people in the background talking and laughing made it, at times, difficult to hear the conversation. But this wasn’t a special occasion, Howie said. This was a regular, daily occurrence at the small, but immaculately clean and tidy, Winter Texan Park. It seems hard to tell what a special occasion is at this park, since occasions seem to happen

all the time, and they all seem special. “We do this every day, Monday through Friday,” Howie said. “Sometimes they’ll stay two hours just socializing. “Then we do it again at 2 p.m. those days as well.” That, in itself, tells a big part of the story of Autumn Acres. It’s a small park – with about 140 slots and approximately 35 permanent Winter Texans – but filled with big hearts. A Cheers-like 55-and-older gated adult community where everyone knows your name, and everyone is like family. “This is a very active community that loves to socialize,”

Howie said. “We have so many activities on our calendar that if you’re not doing something, it’s because you’ve decided to not do anything. Or maybe you’re recovering from all that you’ve done and just need a mini-break to catch your breath. Howie listed event after event, from shuffleboard to a pet pa-

WINTER TEXAN TIMES rade to remote control car races to a very special Veterans Day annual ceremony. She detailed the cleanliness of the park, described the fruit trees including avocados, oranges, and other fruits. But the park is more than just a location with an over-productive activities calendar, Howie explained. It’s a place filled with neighborly – almost familial – care and concern for others. “It’s a very close-knit community,” said Howie, who has

MARCH 16, 2022

www.wintertexantimes.com lived at the park with her husband Chet for five years and is originally from near St. Louis. “That’s one thing I can say for sure, that people are here for each other.” Howie went on to tell the story of a resident who had major surgery. Residents (aka family) took care of their neighbor, bringing meals, taking him to and from doctor’s appointments and making sure his recovery was seamless. Just a group of friends taking care of their own.

“That’s what we do,” Howie said. “Everyone here is so

friendly.” And maybe one day, you’ll see Karen or her husband Chet entertaining the folks. After all, they moved to the Valley from Branson, Missouri. “My husband thinks he’s an entertainer,” Howie joked. “But he’s not.” With all the events, activities and socializing going on in the park, there may not be a time slot available for him anyways. But one never knows.

SALUTING TOP PARKS Full of Endless Fun, Surrounded by Great Attractions

while enjoying Whether you are looking for quick access to the Surrounded by authentic, beach, the Rio Grande River, Mexico or a variety of Great Attractions other attractions, it is all just a short drive from home at flavorful cuisine, and shopping Autumn Acres. • Boca Chica Beach where handmade wares. the Rio Grande River empAutumn Acres is located 24 miles from South Padre You don’t have ties into the Gulf of Mexico Island and 20 miles from Boca Chica Beach. Birders to leave the resort • Tourist friendly South enjoy the close proximity - just a few miles - to the bird to enjoy your stay sanctuary. Padre Island While here you can also take in centuries of history of at Autumn Acres. • Boat Launch by-gone times, and all the cultures that have settled and Here, the fun • Surf and Deep Sea shaped this unique is endless. Our Amenities We Offer region. The history activities schedule Fishing • Gated Community • Historical Sites is always full of in and around • Managers live on site Brownsville is rich parties, games, • Golf Courses and outings. Golf, • Shopping Centers and diverse with • 30 and 50 Amps bingo, cards, plenty of historic • Water, sewer, trash • Resturants shuffleboard, locations to be • Bath house and restrooms • Medical Services dances, races, discovered • Laundry facilities All just a short drive away. scavenger hunts, Situated just a • Black top roads (new) and festivals are few miles from • On sight mail service just a few of the many things you’ll find happening at the border of • Lots of beautiful palms Autumn Acres. Matamoros and • Fruit trees to pick from only an hour from • Heated pool and hot tub Progresso, you’ll be able to immerse • Shuffleboard yourself in the • Club house Mobile Home and RV Resort Mexican culture • Full activities schedule

Autumn Acres

5034 Boca Chica Blvd, Brownsville, TX 78521 • 956-546-4979 • www.autumnacresresort.com

A 55+ Gated Community A Pet Friendly Environment

Where you are living the dream with retirement life at its best.

MARCH 16, 2022

www.wintertexantimes.com

WINTER TEXAN TIMES

Canada steps up to the plate in annual USA vs Canada game A friendly game of softball doesn’t mean there’s no pride or competitive spirits milling about. That was the case last week as Canada defeated the U.S. 9-3 in the annual Winter Texan Softball Can-Am game at Westside Park in McAllen. The annual event, which usually has two games, a B Division and an A Division, was cut short following the B Division game due to a non-stop light rain that officials said made the field too wet and dangerous to play on. Canada went into the game having won just seven of the 18 games played between the two. “That’s probably what got their juices flowing,” said Mike Brower, one of four committee members who organize the event. “I thought the U.S. didn’t quite live up to their potential with the roster we had picked. Canada played much better. I guess they came to play when they heard they were down 11-7 on the cup and they stepped up.” The U.S. took a 2-0 lead after the first inning and Canada

Front row left right: Ron Baud, Fred Esqueda, Marshall Baltzer (manager), Arturo Santana, Frank Albier. Back row left to right: Mark Hoeppner, Paul Villas, Mike Doyle, Reggie Beaupre, Mike Myc, Dave Simpkins, Tom Soucek, Tim Pickar.

cut it in half after two innings. Then, in the fourth, Canada bats came alive and they scored the maximum allowed five runs for a 6-2 advantage. They never were threatened after that during the five-inning game. A fairly large crowd gathered, braving the elements and cheering for one team (or both) while wearing their parkas, hats, and hiding safely under their large umbrellas. Many of the fans also carried Canadian or US flags – or both – and others wore their country’s colors. Coffee, hot chocolate, a variety of sodas and hot dogs, doughnuts or other snacks also seemed to provide relief – and keep tradition alive. After all, a game at the ballpark isn’t officially a game without hotdogs (and Cracker Jacks, which were provided free from the City of McAllen... now that’s a successful day at the park). “It was a really good crowd for the bad weather. We were surprised,” Brower said. “We’ve had bigger crowds on nicer days, but we were pleasantly surprised. See SOFTBALL pg. 25

Front row left to right: Dave Webb, Jose Romo. Middle row left to right: Georgia Kineman, Sam Ferguson (standing), Tom Witkowski, Dave Tarver, Mike Skayman. Back row left to right: Mike Mock, Rosy Frank, Lee Templeton, Patrick Neel, Bob Hanson, Tom Pickar, Ricky Winters.

WINTER TEXAN TIMES

www.wintertexantimes.com

PARKS

CALENDAR

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 Wednesday noon, one week prior to the publication date. Send to: Winter Texan Times, 1217 N. Conway Ave., Mission, Texas 78572 or email to

parkscal@wintertexantimes.com or fax to 956-580-7898. Wednesday, March 16 Breakfast - Bentsen Grove Resort, Palmview, 7:30am, Biscuits & gravy single $2pp, biscuits & gravy double $3pp. Bluegrass Jam - Bentsen Palm RV Park, Mission, 9-11am, 50/50, coffee, homemade goodies. New jammers welcome. Lunch - Llano Grande Lake Park Resort and Country Club, Mercedes, 11am-2:30pm, Cafe Grande. Menu available @ Cafe Grande, meal price varies. Weekly Jam - Sunshine RV Resort, Harlingen, 12:30-3pm, 1900 Grace Ave, food $. Open Jam - Bit-O-Heaven RV Park, Donna, 1-3pm, BYOB, come

sing, play or just listen. All welcome. Big Band Jam - Valley View Estates, Mission, 2-4pm, Musicians by invitation only. Music Jam - Heritage Square, Mission, 5:30pm, Hosted by Don McGhghy. Food available 4 to 5:15 pm. 300 S. Bryan Rd. For info: 563340-6493. Singles Mixer - Casa del Valle Resort Park, Alamo, 6-7pm, BYOB. Jam - Circle T RV Park, Mission, 6pm, Cookies and coffee at intermission. Pre-Rounds - Alamo Palms MH & RV Park, 6:30-7pm, In Tampico Hall. Bring snacks to share. Hearing enhancement available. Subject to change without notice. Entertainment - Bentsen Grove Resort, Palmview, 7pm, Kai Show, $8pp. Encore Show - Sunshine RV Resort, Harlingen, 7-9:30pm, California Forever. In the Friendship Hall. Advance tickets are required and

MARCH 16, 2022

may be purchased in the Sunshine RV Park Activity Office. Reserved seating, $14pp, $15pp, $18pp. Entertainment - McAllen Mobile Park, 7-9pm, Nu-Blu, $8pp. Wearing of the Green - Farewell Dance - Alamo Palms MH & RV Park, 7-9pm, With Ron Betzelberger. In Tampico Hall. Bring snacks to share. Hearing enhancement available. Subject to change without notice. Dance - Casa del Valle Resort Park, Alamo, 7-10pm, Texas Wheels, $7pp. BYOB. Dance - Tip O’ Texas RV Resort, Pharr, 7-10pm, $7pp. Thursday, March 17 Craft Fair - Aladdin Villas, Mission, 8am-Noon. Pickleball Mixer - Casa del Valle Resort Park, Alamo, 9am-Noon, $2pp. All You Can Eat Pancakes The Grove Subdivision, San Juan, 9-11:30am, Pancakes, eggs, sau-

Wintertainers

See PARKS pg. 16

www.wintertexantimes.com

For more information, photos and tour schedules visit

Wintertainers at www.wintertexantimes.com TM

www.ontheriver.net • 214 E. Chimney Rd • Mission, TX

Riverside In-MissionTx

(956) 581-1033

Through Our Doors & Hearts Pass Live Music Sundays 1:30-5:30pm Some of the Finest People Mar. 20 Our Customers, Our Friends, Renaissance Our Family. Rockers “Thank You For A Great Season!” -Johnny & Jennifer Hart Mar. 27 Come Try Our

Famous

TEXAS Size

Pork Tenderloin

Open

Tues • 11am-8pm Wed • 11am-8pm Thurs • 11am-8pm Fri • 11am-8pm Sat • 11am-8pm Steven May & Sun • 11am-8pm The Southern Knights

Live Music Year Round RIVERSIDE DREAMER

River Tours

Call (956) 581-4477

1 Hour River Tours

(Down River to Dam) Seniors $12

• Tues 1:00pm • Wed 1:00pm Thurs • 1:00pm • Fri 1:00pm • Sat 1:00pm 2 Hour River Tours (Up River Only) Seniors $22

2:00pm Tues • 2:00pm Thurs • Additional Boat Rides Added As Needed No Outside Beverages/Food (Cash Only - Tax Included) Enclosed Windows & Heating

Reservations Suggested

DANCES

Texas Wheels • 7 - 9 pm • $7 • BYOB Saturdays March 19 & 26 Singles Mixer • 6-7pm

PICKLEBALL MIXER Thurs. Mar. 17, 24 & 31 9 am - 12 pm • $2

COMING IN APRIL

Texas Wheels • 7 - 10 pm • $7 • BYOB Fridays April 1, 8, 22 & 29 Singles Mixer • 6-7pm

Thank You For Coming. See You Next Season. 1048 N. Alamo Rd. • Alamo, TX 78516 • Office: 956-783-5008

MARCH 16, 2022

www.wintertexantimes.com PARKS

From pg. 15

sage, and endless coffee. Bring you own table service. Country Jam - El Valle Del Sol, Mission, 10am-Noon, Coffee & cookies. Pass the hat. Lunch - Llano Grande Lake Park Resort and Country Club, Mercedes, 11am-2:30pm, Cafe Grande. Menu available @ Cafe Grande, meal price varies. Thursday Lunch - Bentsen Grove Resort, Palmview, 11am-12:30pm, 1/4 lb burger & fries $7pp, 1/2 burger & fries $9pp, pulled pork sandwich $9pp. Lunch & Jam - Siesta Retirement Village Park, Weslaco, 11:30am3pm, Lunch served from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Jam from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. All are welcome. For more information call 956-532-4649. Rock & Roll Jam - Bentsen Grove Resort, Palmview, 12:30-2:30pm. Country Jam - Mission Bell Re-

sort, Mission, 1-3pm, Lunch available 11:30 am - 1 pm. Mission Bell Ballroom. All You Can Eat Fish Fry - Llano Grande Lake Park Resort and Country Club, Mercedes, 4:30-6:30pm, Hynes Event Center, $12pp. Concert - Paradise Park, McAllen, 6-9pm, Jayne Jukebox Junkie. Big Band Jam - La Hacienda Estates, Alamo, 6:30-8:30pm, Come and enjoy great music, best in the valley! Dance, sing along, or just listen. Pop, ice cream, coffee, and homemade cookies are available. Karaoke - Paradise Resort Estates, Pharr, 6:30-8:30pm, Doors open 6:00 pm. Snack bar open. Singers should arrive early so songs may be downloaded to computer. St. Patrick’s Dance - Tropic Winds MH & RV Resort, Harlingen, 7-10pm, Pelican West, $8pp advance, $10pp at the door.

Prayer and Praise - Bibleville Conference Grounds, Alamo, 7pm. Dance - Palm Shadows RV/MH Park, Donna, 7pm, Southern Vibes, $8pp. 200 N Val Verde Rd, 956-4610808. St Patrick’s Day Dance - Ranchero Village, Weslaco, 7-10pm, Steven May & the Southern Knights, $7.50pp. Get your green on at our St Patrick’s Day Dance. Costumes optional, leprechauns welcome. Popcorn and soda available for purchase. Masks optional. Dance - Mission Bell Resort, Mission, 7pm, Texas Wheels, $7pp. Concert - Country Sunshine, Weslaco, 7pm, California Forever. Advance tickets $13pp, $14pp, $16pp. At the door $17pp. Sold at Country Sunshine RV Resort 9 am - 3:30 pm. Dance - McAllen Mobile Park, 7-10pm. Dance - Dixieland MH Park, Harlingen, 7-10pm, $5pp. St. Patrick’s Day Dance - Victoria

WINTER TEXAN TIMES

Palms Resort, Donna, 7-10pm, Rovers, $8pp. Friday, March 18 Breakfast Buffet - Llano Grande Lake Park Resort and Country Club, Mercedes, 7:30-10:30am, Cafe Grande, $8pp. Lunch - Llano Grande Lake Park Resort and Country Club, Mercedes, 11am-2:30pm, Cafe Grande. Menu available @ Cafe Grande, meal price varies. Friday Lunch - Casa del Sol, Donna, 11:30am-12:30pm. Country “OPRY” Jam - McAllen Mobile Park, 1-3pm, Country and gospel like Nashville USED to do with some occasional old-time Rock-N-Roll. Hosted by Elaine Nelson, National Country Music Hall of Famer. Play a tune, sing a song, tap your feet, sing along...remember when...bring a smile and bring a friend! Y’all come!!! Everyone is welcome! Variety Jam - Bentsen Palm RV Park, Mission, 1-3pm, Homemade

Wintertainers www.wintertexantimes.com

For more information, photos and tour schedules visit

Wintertainers at www.wintertexantimes.com TM

DANCES • 7 - 10PM

Mar 19 • Rick McEwen 6-9pm • $8 Mar 25 • Diego & Edith • $8

1645 S Bentsen Palm Drive Palmview • 956-585-0703

ROCK & ROLL JAM Every Thursday • 12:30pm - 2:30pm

ENTERTAINMENT • 7 - 9PM Mar 14 • Rusty Rierson Gospel Show 1-3pm • $8

MEAL EVENTS

Pastor Erik L. Gomez, D.P.Th

Church Services

Hamburgers • 4 - 6pm • $7 Mar 22

CRAFT/GARAGE SALE

Sunday • 10:50am & 6:00pm Wednesday • 7:00pm Thursday (Spanish) • 6:30pm

Mar 17 • Craft Sale • 8am - 12pm

Sunday School • 9:45am

Wishing Everyone Safe Travels & See You Next Fall!

King James 1611 Bible Traditional Hymns

1415 Aladdin Villas W • Mission, TX 78572

(956) 581-1288

806 S Veterans Blvd Pharr, TX 78577

(956) 510-8447

www.anchor-church.org contact@anchor-church.com

DANCES EVERY FRIDAY 7-10PM

SINGLES ARE WELCOME Mar 18 • Curt James • $8 Mar 25 • The Fabulous Cruisers • $10 ENTERTAINMENT • 7PM PAY AT DOOR UNLESS NOTED Mar 16 • Kai Show • $8 MEALS Monday Night Meals • 4:30pm - 6pm Thursday Lunches - Burgers & More • 11am - 12:30pm Friday Fish & More • 11am - 12:30pm

HOMEMADE CAKE DONUTS

Mar 23 • Order Ahead (956) 585-0703 Plain, Chocolate, Or Blueberry With Choice Of Vanilla Or Cinnamon Glaze $1 Each, $1.50 for 2, $4 for 6, $7 for 12 All EVENTS OPEN TO THE PUBLIC Paula McSpadden, Activity Director

956-585-0703

815 N Francisco Mission, TX • (956) 598-5563 M-Sa: 10am-12am S: 12pm-12am

COME JOIN US! Plenty of Dance Space Karaoke Tuesdays • 7-10pm Outdoor Entertainment Tuesdays • 3pm The Howlers Thursdays • 3pm Driftin’ Cowboys Fridays • 3pm Randy Webb Saturdays • 3pm Jealous Heart Band Indoor Entertainment Saturdays • 8-10:30pm Leo Layoz

Foot’s Ice House Birthdays • Reunions • Special Events Backyard Party Space Available

WINTER TEXAN TIMES

goodies and beverage provided, 50/50, great music. Country Jam - Split Rail RV Park, Mission, 1-3pm, Come enjoy great music with friendly Winter Texans. There will be singing and dancing. Or you’re welcome to just listen. Regardless, a good time will be had by all. We’ve made homemade cookies! Don’t miss it. Bluegrass Acoustic Jam - Trail’s End RV Park, Weslaco, 1-3pm, Invitation only. Audience welcome. Contact Ray Martin at 618-4994813. 2201 S. Texas Blvd. Friday Night Fish Fry - Mission West RV Park, 4:30-5:30pm, Full order (3 pieces) with french fries, coleslaw, tea/coffee for $9pp. We also have half orders (2 pieces) for $7pp and extra fish for $2 each. Happy Hour - Llano Grande Lake Park Resort and Country Club, Mercedes, 5pm, Carlos Canas, pass the hat. Hynes Event Center, bar available. Fish Fry - Sunshine RV Resort, Harlingen, 5:30-6:30pm, Advance tickets $11pp, at the door $12pp. Country Jam - Hidden Valley Ranch RV & MH Park, Mission,

www.wintertexantimes.com

5:30pm. Country Jam - Tradewinds RV Resort, Mission, 6pm, Homemade snacks at break. All are welcome. 1005 N. Stewart Rd. Entertainment - 1015 RV Park, Weslaco, 6:30-8:30pm, Dixon Company Band, $7pp. Dance - Bit-O-Heaven RV Park, Donna, 7-10pm, St Patrick’s Dance with The Agency - rock. $10pp. BYOB and snacks. Dance - Bentsen Grove Resort, Palmview, 7-10pm, Curt James, $8pp. Dance - Texas Trails RV Resort, Pharr, 7-10pm, Bottomline Band, $6pp. Mask recommended but not required. Entertainment - Lakewood RV Resort, Harlingen, 7-9pm, California Forever, $16pp. Doors open at 6:00 pm, tickets on sale now. Call 956-423-1170 to reserve your seat. Big Band/Classic Country Jam Palm Shadows RV/MH Park, Donna, 7-9pm, Musicians by invitation only. Lounge open 3-9 pm serving pizza, hot dogs, chili dogs, and chili corn dogs. Dance - Dream Valley Ranch,

El Valle Del Sol

YOUR HOME AWAY FROM HOME!

2500 East Bus Hwy 83 Mission, TX 78572

(956) 585-5704

2022-23 New Reservations Ask About Our Discount Rates!!

Spend your winter here! We promise lots of sunny and fun days, close access to the Gulf of Mexico and South Padre Island for fishing or sun bathing. Medical facilities, dining, shopping, outdoor activities are all close by. Our friendly residents make you feel like family at our parks!

TONS OF AMMENITIES: ACTIVITIES & MORE: •Heated Swimming Pool & Spa •Game Room & Pool Tables •Woodworking & Rock Shop •Ceramics Studio •Shuffleboard •Laundry & Shower Facilities

•Complete Dance & Exercise Program •Tons of Organized Activities & Tours •Bingo & Weekly Potlucks •Library & Crafts •Pet Friendly! •Home of the Famous “Peppermint Palace” Dance Hall

Mobile Home, Park Model & RV Sites Available Year Round! Stop by for a Visit • Reservations Are Open!

Mission, 7-9pm, The Howlers, $7pp. BYOB, country classic. Dance - Siesta Retirement Village Park, Weslaco, 7-10pm, Rick McEwen, $8pp.Wearin’ “O” the Green! Prizes for Best Irish Lad and Lassy costumes, and Irish Songster. Soft drinks and popcorn available. For info, call 505-913-7542 or 956-3735442. Dance - Victoria Palms Resort, Donna, 7pm, The Fabulous Cruisers, $10pp. Entertainment - Mission Bell Resort, Mission, 7pm, Mountain Highway, $8pp. Saturday, March 19 Garage Sale - Val’s Kountry Corral, Mission, 7-11am, Rec Hall. Donuts, muffins, and hot coffee for sale. Breakfast - Paradise Park, McAllen, 7:30-8:45am. Craft Sale - Sunshine RV Resort, Harlingen, 8am-Noon, Items for sale by many talented crafters. Craft & Patio Sale - Hidden Valley Ranch RV & MH Park, Mission, 8am-Noon, 7600 Long Dr. Refreshments and lunch will be available. Interested vendors can call 918-7420177.

MARCH 16, 2022

Craft Show - Tradewinds RV Resort, Mission, 8am-Noon, Coffee, donuts & lunch served. Indoor Garage Sale - Long Island Village, Port Isabel, 8am-Noon, Quilt show, bake sale, golf items & etc. 33772 South Garcia. Country Jam - Green Gate Grove, Palmview, 12:30pm, Lunch at 11:00 am. Country Jam - La Hacienda Estates, Alamo, 1-3:30pm. Big Band/Rock & Roll Jam - Texas Trails RV Resort, Pharr, 2-4pm. Jam - Val Verde RV Park, Donna, 6-8pm. Dance - Aladdin Villas, Mission, 6-9pm, Rick McEwen, $8pp. Single Mixer - Casa del Valle Resort Park, Alamo, 6-7pm, BYOB. Bingo - Pharr South Park, Pharr, 6:30-9:30pm, Card sales from 6:307pm, bingo 7-9pm. Snacks and refreshments available for purchase. No outside food or beverages. Come early for dinner, served 4:45-6pm. Dance - Trophy Gardens, Alamo, 7pm, SweetWater, $7pp. Doors open at 5:30 pm. Saturday Dance - Sunshine RV See PARKS pg. 18

MARCH 16, 2022

www.wintertexantimes.com PARKS

From pg. 17

Resort, Harlingen, 7-10pm, Curt James, $6pp. Dance - Paradise Resort Estates, Pharr, 7-10pm, Diego, $8pp. Doors open at 6:15 pm. Snack bar open. Dance - Country Sunshine, Weslaco, 7-10pm, Regan James, $8pp. Dance - Llano Grande Lake Park Resort and Country Club, Mercedes, 7-10pm, The Fabulous Cruisers, $12pp. Hynes Event Center. Dance - Winter Green Estates, Mission, 7pm, Time Machine, $7pp. 500 N Bryan Rd. Dance - Enchanted Valley Ranch, Mission, 7-10pm, Poison Ivy, $10pp. Dance - Casa del Valle Resort Park, Alamo, 7-9pm, Texas Wheels, $7pp. BYOB. Sunday, March 20 Church - Restful Valley Ranch, Mission, 8:15am. Church Service - Bentsen Grove Resort, Palmview, 8:30am, Non-denominational, with Pastor Jesse Hernandez. Bible Study follows the service.

Church Service - Hidden Valley Ranch RV & MH Park, Mission, 8:30am, Fellowship at 8:30 am, service at 9:00 am. 7600 Long Drive. Church - Fiesta Village, Mission, 9am, In the Main Hall. Church - Tradewinds RV Resort, Mission, 9am, Non-denominational service with Scot Swafford. 1005 N. Stewart Rd. Church Service - Casa del Valle Resort Park, Alamo, 9-10am, We invite you to join us as we enjoy time with God in Worship and Fellowship. Refreshments following the service. Church Service - Rio Valley Estates MH & RV Resort, Weslaco, 9am, In Friendship Hall. All welcome, non-denominational, led by Pastor Johnie McDaniel. 715 N. Westgate Drive. Church - Mission Bell Resort, Mission, 9:30am, Non-denominational service with Pastor Wayne McNair. 1711 E. Bus. Hwy 83. Worship Service - Pharr South Park, Pharr, 9:30am-Noon, Worship

Download App For Online Offers & Our Loyalty Program Book Online Thru App or Website

www.golf.pharr-tx.gov Download Our App: TDS GOLF No Coupon Copies Allowed

18-HOLE GREEN FEE with CART, $33.00 (includes tax) • Includes 18-hole green fee with 1/2 cart. • Must present this coupon to redeem offer. • Two days in advance teetime reservation.

• Valid Anytime Mon-Fri and after 10am on weekends and holidays • Not valid for League or Tournament Play • Offer expires 4/1/2022.

NO REFUNDS OR RAINCHECKS ONCE PLAY BEGINS!

No Coupon Copies Allowed

(956) 402-4545

golf@pharr-tx.gov

700 E. Hall Acres Pharr, TX 78577

Service followed by Fellowship Time. Dr. Gerald Parriott, Pastor. Church Services - Paradise Resort Estates, Pharr, 10-11:30am. Church Service - Palm Shadows RV/MH Park, Donna, 10am, Services by Pastors Charles & Bev Wolff. Non-Denominational Church Service - River Ranch Resort, Rio Hondo, 10-11am. Worship - Bibleville Conference Grounds, Alamo, 10:30am, Chaplain Dr Larry Windle Jam - Eldorado Acres RV Park, Palmview, 2-4pm. Gospel Jam - Valley View Estates, Mission, 2-4pm. Beginner Line Dance Instruction - AmeriCana RV Park, Mission, 2-3:30pm, First 1/2 hour is ultra beginner followed by beginner and improved beginner. All steps are called. A great cardio exercise. Entertainment - Winter Haven Park, Pharr, 3-5pm, Tiny Hill Orchestra. Karaoke - Bit-O-Heaven RV Park, Donna, 5pm, Free. Farewell Round Dance Party Alamo Palms MH & RV Park, 6:30-

WINTER TEXAN TIMES

8:30pm, In Tampico Hall. Bring snacks to share. Hearing enhancement available. Subject to change without notice. Worship - Bibleville Conference Grounds, Alamo, 7pm, Chaplain Dr Larry Windle Entertainment - Ranchero Village, Weslaco, 7pm, Redneck Revival, $7pp. A rollicking Christian based comedy show that will have you laughing out loud! Movie - Paradise Resort Estates, Pharr, 7-9pm, Snack bar opens at 6:00 pm. Free movies. Please visit website, rgv.activities.com, for title of movie each week. Monday, March 21 Craft Show - Mission Bell Resort, Mission, 8am-Noon, Coffee, donuts & lunch served. Cribbage - Valley View Estates, Mission, 10am-Noon, Clubhouse, 2100 Vernon Street. Rock & Roll Jam - Enchanted Valley Ranch, Mission, Noon-3pm, Food served 12pm, jam 1-3pm. Square Dance - Mission Bell Resort, Mission, 2-4pm, Mission Bell Ballroom, $6pp. Mainstream/Plus. See PARKS pg. 31

*$1,0 Yearly 00 Lea Specia se l

Up *Sign April & March 22 20 50 Acre RV Park Lazy Palms Ranch, it’s what life is all about. Where the sound of silence is still heard and where the country’s natural splendor has no bounds. Lazy Palms Ranch is the R.V. Ranch you’ll want to call home for a day, a week or for the season.

50+ Park Community

FEATURES:

Large Rv & Park Model Sites • Bird/Natural Life Year Round • Game Room Pool Tables • Walking Trails • Exercise Equipment • Pet Friendly Church Services on Sundays • Pool & Spa • Stocked Fishing Pond

ACTIVITIES:

Shuffleboard • Horseshoes • Bocce Ball • Card Games • Live Entertainment Bake and Craft Sales • Pot Lucks • Dominoes • Poker • Pool Tables • Bingo

35100 Lazy Palm Dr. Edinburg, TX, 78541

(956) 383-1020

www.lazypalmsranch.com manager@lazypalmsranch.com

WINTER TEXAN TIMES WINTER TEXANS

MARCH 16, 2022 19 20 22 Rese r Do -2023 ving Ca n’t M Ad ll 9 56 iss O Spac e -58 ut 0-7 – 80 0

www.wintertexantimes.com

From pg. 1

ety and warm weather. The beaches on the gulf and the number of things to do are all a part. A big reason seniors like it is because a lot of their friends return every year, too. They are the same age and share the Winter Texan Times file photo by Doug Young same interter of Murray and Melva Mathieu ests. who were residents of Snow to Sun. I got most of this information She, with her family, visited the from my grandparents. We were in Mathieus in December of 1987. She Texas to visit them in their winter chose Winter Texans as a theme for home. Maybe I should describe the her essay. The teacher graded her place they stay. paper an A plus, excellent paper. It is an RV park called Snow to In our country some people like Sun in Weslaco. There is always winter. Many others don’t; and a lot something to do there. There is a of them are senior citizens. Some swimming pool and a hot tub. There senior citizens go south for the win- is a place to play shuffleboard, pool, ter, like the birds. I have reported on and cards; and there is a big hall for Winter Texans. dances and exercise classes, bingo, Why go to Texas? Well, the old and more. people who go there hate cold and I think Winter Texans have a good snow and since they are retired, they life; because in most RV parks the are able to do so. They want to es- people watch out for each other and cape the harsh winters of the north become good friends. and Texas is a cheaper place than other places like Florida and Hawaii. How do they get there? They fly or drive. A lot of them get there in RVs or trailers. Where do they stay? In recreation parks mostly; although some have mobile homes or condos. The amount of time they stay ranges from one month to six. What do they do there? Here’s something the Rio Grande Valley Chamber of Commerce said: “Halfyear Texans have much to offer our community; they are involved by becoming volunteers in community activities.” They also join clubs, go to social activities, go dancing, and compete in all kinds of tournaments. They also fish, swim, shop in Mexico, and see the sights. A lot of places offer discounts to Winter Texans. What is the most wonderful thing about south Texas? Its vari- Winter Texan Times photo by Doug Young

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ONLINE

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Park Di

RIO G MO RAND BIL E H E VALL OM E & EY 202 1-20 RV 22

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Winter hed By: Texan

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2021 Park Directory

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ME To The Rio GraO nde Valley

Editio

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The US-Mexica n War was foug the Rio Gran ht at several de locations in tered along the Valley. This cannon, and others, are scatin Brownsville. property at Palo Alto Natio nal Historic Park When visiting the war and the the role it playe park, you can learn abou walking its trails t d for the Valle y, and alon seein g with g some of the habitat and wildl Valley’s natural ife. Dancing is a Valley. Events big part of the culture of the Rio Gran throu de cultures and danc ghout the Valley high light Ballet Folklorico ing that can be found. Pictu the varied red is UTRGV’s – Alegria. The Rio Gran Quinta Mazatlan de Valley is a popular area for to visitors. This is just one of the many birdi birding and Pine Siskin is ng sites open that can be foun one of many species of birds d in the Rio Gran de Valley. Rio Grande Valle y Visitors Guid e 2021-2022

MARCH 16, 2022 NATURE From pg. 4

Red, who is originally from Michigan, loves to see visitors, like his friend Larry Wolf, from Missouri, living at Enchanted Valley Ranch in Palmview. Wolf said he came to lend some encouragement and a little help to Red, who doesn’t see club members very often. Most visitors are Winter Texans, who like to recall a bit of their Photo by Jessica Velez youth. He’s thankful too for the museum allowing the model trains to be displayed, which was the only place he found large enough for the setup, which include small towns, a city, and a RR round house. With the migratory season getting under way, Sanchez is expecting the number of visitors to increase significantly. The Pumphouse Museum is open from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on the weekend. Frontera Audubon A contrast exists between the noisy traffic on South Texas Boulevard in Weslaco and the tranquil Frontera Audubon Nature Sanctuary a mere hundred yards away. The 15acre nature preserve near the heart of the city provides a haven for birds, butterflies and other small wildlife thriving among the Tamaulipan, thorn scrub and hackberry forest. To be found there is the “Thicket,” an orchard butterfly garden, wetlands, and ponds. The site houses a visitor center and the Texas historic landmark—the Skaggs House. The Spanish Mediterranean style house was built in 1927 for early Weslaco residents C.L. “Lester” and Florence R. Skaggs, who were bankers and citrus growers. Their daughter, Bebe Skaggs James, donated the property to Frontera Audubon in 1992 for conservation and preservation.

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The nature sanctuary developed in 1989 from an abandoned grapefruit orchard, a lot of Guinea grass, mesquite woods and dense stands of Brazilian pepper in a wet area, owned by Jim and Cyndy Chapman. The site was a magnet for birds and fireflies. The Chapmans created what became known as the “Thicket” with native brush and tree seedlings. The enjoyment of the site hit a roadblock when the city cited the site as a weedy lot ordinance violation. That led to a citizen effort to draft a habitat ordinance, which the city passed, giving Weslaco its first wildlife area. A half-acre land donation followed and then the Skaggs House donation. A non-profit organization established in the late 70s began operating at the site in 2000. Because the house is undergoing renovations, the only way to see the inside is by booking a special event, according to program coordinator Alicesen Lopez. It should reopen by year’s end. But the Thicket and its 1.5 miles of trails with its viewing stations and marshy areas are open Tuesday through Saturday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Sunday noon to 4 p.m. and closed Monday. Weekly bird walks are held at 9 a.m. on Wednesdays, along with a yoga class on Thursdays. The one very evident bird is the large turkey vulture that fly overhead or sit high in the treetops, which Lopez said will soon be migrating out of the sanctuary. But the most excitement came from four visiting women, who saw a Ringed Kingfisher, a rather large 16-inch in size on one of the trails. The foursome of Gina Alba-

no and Shirley Tomasello, both of Cleveland, OH and Kite Richert and Barbara Szombatfulvy, both from Durham, NC, had planned to visit South Texas two years ago, until the pandemic hit. Tomasello and Szombatfulvy, who have been friends for 47 years, planned this winter’s trip, choosing to stay at an Airbnb in McAllen on Lake Concepcion. Walking the trails also offers an introduction to many of the trees and plants, which are identified. At the visitor center, there are weekly postings of birds that were sighted in the sanctuary. While the weather has had an impact on the lower number of visitors, Lopez anticipates the approaching migratory season will have them busy over the next several weeks. Admission to the park is $5 for adults, $4 for seniors, $3 for older students and children free. More information is on the center’s website or by calling (956) 968-3275. Edinburg Scenic Wetlands Many first-time and expert bird watchers find the 40-acre World Birding Center (WBC) in the City of Edinburg Municipal Park’s Scenic Wetlands an inviting, tranquil habitat. Karen Goodger, an avid “birder” and first-time visitor to the “Valley” from Katy, TX, went on the center’s bird walk March 10. City employee David Flores led the walk on part of the 2.5 miles of trail, introducing the visitors, who also included Dave and Judy Lund, Anne Dare and Cindy Karman, first to the egrets, herons, cormorants and pelicans in the wetlands main pond. At least 13 different species of ducks can be found in the ponds and lagoons. Flores noted that the Purple Martins had arrived recently in another area of the park. The Lunds came to the “Valley” in 2017 after Hurricane Harvey pushed them out of Port Aransas. The Winter Texan couple, who come from Wisconsin and stay at Ranchero Village in Weslaco, like “birding” and Dave has become a very good wildlife photographer following retirement. Karman lives in the same park as the Lunds, while Dare is at Country Sunshine in Weslaco. Goodger wanted to see a Green Jay, which Flores was able to locate

WINTER TEXAN TIMES

for her. She has been bird watching for a couple of years and has compiled an extensive list from around the Houston area. On her short trip here, she had logged 13 new species. Brandon Alaniz, the new park manager, noted there are projects underway to spruce up the scenic wetlands and birding center as March of 2023 will mark the 20th anniversary of its establishment. The center and wetlands in the municipal park that is nestled near the heart of the city also features a 3.5-acre butterfly garden. While the birds flitted about during the walk, the butterflies remained at rest, which to be seen requires warm weather conditions. The birds and butterflies are augmented with dragonfly and wildflower walks and even some nighttime excursions. The center offers nature tours, school field trips, family programs and special events. Learning about nature is offered through outdoor classroom and programs at the Visitor/Interpretive Center. The center features educational exhibits on fish and aquatic life, and interactive programs highlight birds and butterflies. Telescopes and audio stations allow for closer inspection of the park’s inhabitants, while floor to ceiling windows provide watching of wildlife in every season. To learn more check the Scenic Wetlands website or call (956) 3819922. There is also a community/children’s garden that offers its own education about native plants. A Junior Master Gardeners program is open to youth from six to 12 years of age, according to Director Hannah Marble, which runs February through June. Volunteers 16 and older are welcome to come on Thursdays and Saturdays from 8 a.m. to noon to learn about plants while helping in the garden. Simply call Marble at the Center. The Center is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Friday and Saturday and closed Sunday. WBC grounds are open daily from sunrise to sunset. Admission is $3 for adults and $2 for seniors and children. To learn more about all of the World Birding Centers, visit their main website at www.theworldbirdingcenter.com.

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MARCH 16, 2022

Freddy’s: More than just custard

One of my favorite moments when I go to Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers is when I take my first bite of the steakburger patty that is by itself, a patty larger than the bun it hides inside and a piece that sticks out. It’s not touched at this point by any of the condiments and it is a savory taste of a well-seasoned patty. It’s not just salted down, but sprinkled with their own concoction, Freddy’s Famous Steakburger & Fry Seasoning. It’s a mixture of salt, garlic, paprika and other spices that brings out the patty’s flavor like no other patty I’ve tasted other than what my mom would make when I was growing up. Of course, the rest of the double cheese steakburger (with grilled onions of course - everything needs grilled onions) is just as delectable. While many may know Freddy’s from its amazingly refreshing and creamy custards, their steakburgers are a gem to partake as well. The patties are thin, large, and cooked to perfection. A steakburger is different from your ordinary burger patty. It is not ground up hamburger meat – it is a full thin slice of steak that has been tenderized and flattened to form a patty just perfect for their buns. At Freddy’s, you can really taste the difference. On this occasion I visited the McAllen location, near the McAllen Convention Center. I wasn’t really in the mood for fries, but I really enjoy their beefy and not watered-down chili, so I ordered cheese curds – with chili and cheese on top. This was a meal unto itself, and I was so in tune with my burger and curds that I completely forgot to ask for some jalapenos. It really didn’t need any though because the rush of flavors was immense... and I didn’t want to completely lose the taste from that first bite. Of course, nothing cleans and refreshes the palate better than some frozen custard, so I imbibed on the Hawaiian Delight sundae. You can also get this in a “concrete,” which is usually my choice but for this day, I felt like a sundae. It was the perfect ending to a perfect beginning.

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MARCH 16, 2022 RC RACING From pg. 6

all over the U.S. “Many tracks up north have closed,” Westcott said. “I take my love for racing back to Minnesota with me, and I try to find a track there in the summer.” First oval dirt track in Valley While RC offroad tracks were attracting a following in the Valley, it wasn’t quite what two Alamo RecVeh Park friends -- Doug Kortbein and Mike Benoit -- wanted. “I’m an old guy,” Kortbein said. “I think it’s easier to race on an oval track than off-road because your reflexes don’t have to be as fast.” In the fall of 2014, they got their park manager’s permission to build a track where the park’s unused horseshoe pit stood. Kortbein and Benoit designed and supervised the new track’s construction. The park’s owner sent over his backhoe to dig out the pit. “We were quite frugal,” Kortbein said. “We used almost everything from the horseshoe court. All the wood was there for the backstop, so we used it to build the driver’s stand. Meanwhile, we worked to pay for most of the track’s expenses ourselves with fundraisers.” After the track was complete, he said they didn’t have the lap counter they do now. “People in the stands would keep track of each racer’s progress with flip cards,” he said. “Them were the good old days!” “Many flip-card helpers were mad when we got the automatic system,” he said. “They lost their jobs.” He said today they have drivers who come to the Valley from all over Texas and that means there is good competition here.

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“Almost all parks with oval tracks came to our park to copy our design or we helped them work out the plans for their track,” Benoit said. “We assisted many with their race programs because we want great tracks that offer good competition. We’re still ready to help any park get started.” To kickstart the race program in Alamo, the duo also initiated the Red, White and Blues Series of races that promoted racing among parks. First raised mini track Alamo Rec-Veh Park manager Barbara Hamel requested a small track for residents who wanted to try out more affordable RC racing. With the expert help of track builder Jim Davis, it became a reality. RC director Mike Fleming said he gave Davis the design, which he had matched to the size of the existing drivers’ stand. His computerized drawing included the t r a c k ’s length and radius. Davis analyzed the printout and agreed it

WINTER TEXAN TIMES

could be built. “We took what was available to us,” Fleming said. “Amazingly, it worked! Concrete track takes center stage The first concrete track was built in the center of Ranchero Village to impress visitors when they came to the park and to attract new residents.

track (concrete) completed. Dobson said that the owner and park manager got together and decided they wanted a track that was low maintenance. One of the requisites was that the track use every bit of space possible. “RC Club members told them what we wanted,” Dobson said. “Our general manager raced with

“The new people, mostly RV’ers, like looking at the impressive track,” year-round resident Jerry Dobson said. “Several of us RC Club members let them drive our cars so they get some practice. They get addicted once they try it. Before long they want to spend the money to get their own cars.” It took some planning and quite a bit of money to get the park’s second

us, so he knew what he wanted.... He wanted the fastest, greatest and biggest track. And he got that!” Most park racers like racing on the new surface. “It’s much faster, like Nascar on cement instead of dirt,” Jerry Harbarth said. “You can go a lot faster without spinning out. I like it!” According to Dobson, if a park has good ownership and a manager behind its RC Club, the residents have it made because it’s an activity that Winter Texans can get into fairly reasonably. “I’ve lived here for four years, Dobson said, “and during that time RC activity has mushroomed.” He thinks RC racing has a good future, whether it’s a concrete track or another type. “The way I see it,” he said, “is that if a park doesn’t have a track, they’re going to wish they did.”

WINTER TEXAN TIMES

www.wintertexantimes.com FUN

From pg. 1

tertainers like Gordy and Debbie who came to the Valley nearly 15 years ago and were an immediate hit. When they returned home, they spread the word and brought some friends down. While Branson, MO, a place where many of the visiting entertainers play regularly and is known for its great entertainment, the Valley’s Wintertainers™ also come from Nashville and Las Vegas, and from other states where talented individuals, duos or groups are usually looking to escape the gloomy, cold, and snowy north. “I’m sitting here on a patio, overlooking a golf course,” said Blaine Swabb, one half of a musical/comedy group along with his twin brother Brian who are glad to escape the grayness of their hometown Greenville, OH, during the winter.

The brother duo, Spittin’ Image, book 20-25 shows in 30 days – that’s an example of the popularity of the entertainers who come to perform in the Valley retirement resorts

during the winter. It’s sort of an underground music scene – except it’s not for the college crowd, but for the 55 and above crowd.

Dave and Daphne are another huge favorite and were voted the Duet Musical Group of the Year by the Valley Star Awards this year, and have won the award in the past as well. “We are so thankful to have won that award and we know that’s it’s because of all the Winter Texans who come out and support us,” Daphne said. “We are thankful that they let us do what we love. If it wasn’t for them, we wouldn’t be able to do that.” Dave and Daphne come from Nashville. Dave was formerly lead guitar player for Barbara Mandrell and Daphne sang gospel with The Gaithers Homecoming Show. Country legend Roy Clark said Dave Salyer

MARCH 16, 2022

is “one of the most fabulous guitarists on the planet.” His solo repertoire on guitar (or banjo) range from “Orange Blossom Special” to “The Flight of the BumbleBee” and from “Wildwood Flower” to the “William Tell Overture.” He also toured the world with Barbara Mandrell, who says ”Dave Salyer is the best guitarist I’ve ever had.” Daphne Anderson has performed with some of the greatest Southern Gospel groups of all time, including the Bill Gaither Group, the Florida Boys, The Cathedrals, Rex Nelson and more. The Southern Gospel Music Association voted her their Female Vocalist of the Year. Rusty Rierson, a performer who drove down from Wichita in zero-degree weather for his first winter to perform in the RGV in 2018, became an instant hit in the Valley. He won the Male Vocalist of the Year award this year. He has performed alongside the likes of Sawyer Brown, Dustin Lynch, T. G. Sheppard, Moe Bandy, Bill Gentry and others. His 2012 song ”Souvenirs,” a project recorded See FUN pg. 24

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From pg. 23

in Nashville with producer Richie Owens, briefly charted on the Music Row Breakout Chart in the U.S. but went No. 1 for four straight weeks on Europe’s Country Music Chart and held off country superstar Toby Keith to the second position the whole time. Other popular Wintertainers™ include Rick McEwen, the Baker Family, Helen Russell and Company, Festus Lives On, Shake, Rattle and Roll, Mountain Highway, Redneck Revival, and Nu-Blu. And that is just naming a few. There are too many to mention that visit the Valley just to have fun with the Winter Texans. These individuals perform at the parks throughout the Valley. The cost is typically in the $7 to $9 range while the same show in Florida or Arizona will cost $10-$15 and in Branson – a mini-Nashville if you will – the cost could be $30-$50 or more for the same show. Activities everywhere you look Peruse through the Parks Calen-

dar in any January or February edition of the Winter Texan Times – see it online at www.wintertexantimes. com. By the end of March, the season is coming to a close and the park activities have tapered down – but there is still plenty to do. W h a t ’s more impressive is that there are more and more activities and social events being added on a regular basis as activity directors and park managers realize that the hobbies of Winter Texans today are different than those of yesterday, so they look to ac-

commodate all – and they’ve done a great job at it. And the events in the Parks Calendar are activities that are open to out-of-park guests, so your buffet of things to do is limitless. Of course, none of that includes

any of the activities that are going on outside the parks. South Texas is known for birding and butterflying and South Padre Island and world-class fishing and professional

WINTER TEXAN TIMES

soccer and basketball and....need we go on? Adding to the social aspect of the Winter Texan lifestyle is the park community of friends and neighbors who participate in many activities together. Dancing the Night Away Of course, the Winter Texans aren’t kids anymore – but they can certainly handle their own when it comes to dancing. Whether it’s line dancing, square dancing, waltzes, cha-chas, jitterbugs or anything else, these visitors know how to make a dance floor come alive. For Winter Texans who prefer to dance, a dance can be found any night of the week in a nearby resort. While most are country western, square, round or ballroom dancing, rock ‘n roll is growing in popularity. The list is seemingly never-ending. The Rio Grande Valley has come a long way in the past few years in terms of entertainment; there is plenty to keep you as busy as you want to be. Come on down and let us entertain you!

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WINTER TEXAN TIMES

Winter Texan reunited with lost painting

At 92-years-young, Ella Mae Marrs, who has been wintering in the Valley for over 30 years, had an exciting tale to share this season with her Winter Texan friends. A painting she did in 1992 came back in her possession this past summer. Marrs said she took some art classes back in Kansas and had done the painting during that time. An article was written in the Kiowa County Signal in July, detailing how the painting was purchased at a Goodwill store in Mississippi before making it back to Marrs. Marrs said she had a habit of taking pictures of all of her paintings, but for some reason, she did not get a picture of this one. So, the reunion was even more special, and that now she has it on her wall to cherish once again after all these years. A lady by the name of Kim

It took several months to track her down, but with the help of Google, she was able to find her name on a post on Facebook. Cochran was then able to locate her at a senior center Marrs and her husband were staying at. The two were overjoyed, said the article, when they were finally able to connect and share the painting and stories of how it came to be, and ponder how it came to end up at a Goodwill store. Marrs said she has enjoyed her hobbies over the years and

being involved in activities up north and in her park at Split Rail RV Park. Painting was just one of those things she picked up along the way…. At 60, she added. As a long time Winter Texan, she said she had a relationship with the Valley before she became a Winter Texan. She also pointed out that she is related to founding members of the Valley – including William Jennings Bryan and Lott. According to her, the Marrs orange is also part of her family ancestry.

SOFTBALL From pg. 14

Cochran had purchased it at the Goodwill store in September of 2020. According to the article, Cochran said she liked researching the paintings she buys. This painting had a note on the back with Marrs’s name, date, and where she lived at the time.

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And they stuck around for the entirety and then some.” The games were canceled last year due to COVID-19 (and the fact there were no Canadians, even though Brower said one Canadian made it down – he probably would’ve been no match for a full U.S. team). “This is a sport where we all keep playing,” Brower said.

“It’s a kid’s game – we keep playing and we don’t see an end in sight. If we give it up, then we’ll get old, so we are gonna keep going. We’ve got guys 83 years old playing and had one 92 a few years ago. “It’s something we all love and as long as we stay healthy, we’ll keep playing.”

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MARCH 16, 2022 WEATHER From pg. 1

70-74degrees(butcanreachintothe 80s) and lows are generally between 49 and 54 – with the token warning once a year that a frost is on its way, sending full-time residents scurrying to cover their outdoor plants. The mild winter temperatures – and no snow – allows folks to get out and be active during the winter months. For Winter Texans that means playing golf, racing RC cars, playing pickleball, shuffleboard, horseshoes, cycling, bird watching and many other outdoor activities – often with temperatures in the 70s. Wayne Watts said, in 2018, he would be back home right now shoveling snow and feeding the horses. Instead, he was outdoors watching his Winter Texan friends playing softball. “The weather here is perfect – you can do a lot in this weather,” he said. “But when you feed the horses you gotta go back out and clean what they ate.”

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Virgil Kappes said he heard a person could add 10 years to his or her life by wintering in the Valley, away from the miserable cold weather. Not only is there joy in leaving the frozen tundras, but there are also health benefits. Jim McDermid of MN said he has heart and vascular disease and in the Valley the weather is good enough that he can walk almost every day and the land is flat enough that he does not have to climb while he walks. Ed Martens, who used to run the Senior Texan Softball League and its all-star games every March, said (in 2019) he has benefited from his years of living in the Valley, even though he may not be playing softball anymore. “It keeps me active,” he said. “There’s no way I want to live where it’s snowing and frozen. I love that we

WINTER TEXAN TIMES

can play softball pretty much all year.” The nation’s warmest “Polar Bear Dip” also takes place on South Padre Island every Jan. 1. Hundreds of Winter Texans join locals sprinting into the Gulf for a quick plunge. The event is highly popular in areas where the courageous jump into

35-degree water. That’s something that South Texas “dippers” don’t have to worry about. The weather is also perfect for golf during the Winter Texan months. Several parks have groups that schedule scrambles on a weekly basis to play on one of more than 20 different courses spread throughout the Valley.

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WINTER TEXAN TIMES

Take in the historic sights of the Valley There is a whole lot to see and do in South Texas. Those of you who want to know all about this area just need to go exploring and you can become a walking historian. History can be fun, entertaining, and educational. Why not set yourself a goal to visit every attraction in this area. This should keep you entertained for the whole year. Or maybe even more. So where do you start? A small booklet called The Rio Grande Valley Visitors Guide has a short paragraph of most every attraction in the Rio Grande Valley. Call your chamber and see if they have copies of this little booklet. Or pick up one from the Texas Tourist Information Center in Harlingen. (You can also find it online at www.wintertexantimes.com under the Digital Editions heading.) Your computer will also have a wealth of knowledge. Just search for “Attractions in (name of city)”. To learn even more just search the name of the attraction that interests you. You could start in Roma and just continue down to South Padre Island. Drive these routes

MARCH 16, 2022

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on your own or you may want to join a tour group. Roma has a World Birding Center to please the avid birders. For the history buffs and the photographers, the beautiful older brick buildings should delight you. Next comes Rio Grande City and the Fort where Robert E. Lee was once stationed. The house where he lived and the map sketches on the walls are especially interesting. Mission, home of Coach Landry and the La Lomita Mission with its charming little chapel and outdoor oven where bread was baked is certainly worth a visit. Mission also has an interesting museum that tells of the Orphan Trains that once operated across the United States. Two of my favorite things will not be listed. If you want to really appreciate the vegetable farmers, why not drive the Memorial Highway - that’s Highway 281 - that parallels the river. During mid to late January through mid-March you will see the many Winter Vegetables that are grown in South Texas. The leafy vegetable Kale is one of our newest crops. W a t e r h u n gry sugar cane fields are in abundance. Take time to stop in La Palo-

ma at their cemetery and note how all the graves are facing South not to the East as is customary in most cemeteries. Most of the graves belong to those who had their roots in Mexico. Could it be that on the day of judgement they hope to rise up and go back to their homeland? The Oblate Fathers in their desire to bring their faith to the early settlers established little chapels at all the ranch headquarters along this highway. These simple little chapels are charming and touching in their simplicity especially the one at El Ranchito.

A hidden jewel is in the Lutheran Church in Lyford. Wooden sculpted faces of the twelve disciples line the inside walls. The artist was so skilled that you can see the disbelief on the face of doubting Thomas. Explore! And learn! South Texas is really interesting. Some might say we are the best of two worlds!

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Call 830-399-0177

Text 956-304-8110

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ACTIVE

From pg. 11

cials offer amazing prices – all you can eat pancake breakfasts for as little as $4, or a burger, fries and a drink for $5 are just two examples. Talking about “win-win,” there may not be a better area in the nation that offers such a wide variety of products as the local pulgas, known everywhere else as flea markets. The DonWes Flea Market is truly one of a kind. When you first pull in, you may not be wowed because, well, it is a flea market. As soon as you step inside the covered area, however, treasures are everywhere. There’s Amish cheeses and homemade jellies and jams from Wisconsin (Winter Texan proud), fruits and veggies (also at several farmer’s markets). There’s jewelry, gadgets, clothes – even a doggy day spa. In other words, you can find everything you want – and some things you didn’t realize you wanted at these flea markets. Finally, the big sell when it

WINTER TEXAN TIMES

comes to the economical reasons, the lots and homes themselves are sold at amazingly low prices. When a Winter Texan decides to not return for health or family reasons (plenty of new grandchildren for example), they will sell or lease their lots/RVs and/or mobile homes. Newcomers can usually find amazing deals on homes, many fully furnished. While the low cost of living is just one of the reasons Winter Texans love the Valley, it surely is an important one, as it allows retirees to stretch their retirement income and enjoy those golden years. “We’ve worked a lot of years and sacrificed so many things for this time,” said Debbie Lorenz, who has lived in the Valley with her husband Arnie for several years. Their northern home is in Malden, IL. “We’ve planned accordingly for this part of our lives. We are enjoying it and are determined to keep right on enjoying it.”

From pg. 2

craft rooms and at least one has a gun range. And, of course there are top-of-the-line entertainers who regularly perform in the resorts, as well as jam sessions, with rock ‘n roll music becoming increasingly popular. It’s not unusual to hear stories of 200, 300 or more people filling recreation halls to listen to, or participate in the rock ‘n roll jams. Country music jams are still incredibly popular, but rock is pushing its way to the top. It seems that nothing is off the

table for people’s love for certain activities/sports when it comes to that inner drive of health and enjoying active recreation. During the reporting of this story, two Winter Texans mentioned that one park in Pharr has a softball league ... with their own traveling cheerleaders, outfits and all. If nothing else, that proves that age is nothing more than a number, and anything is possible. No cheerleaders were hurt in the reporting of this story.

WELCOME From pg. 8

visitors more than just part-time visitors. “We’ve built relationships with so many of them,” said Jennifer Hart, co-owner with her husband of the popular Riverside Club along the Rio Grande

in Mission. “A lot of them have truly become like family to us.” Texas even coined the endearing name “Winter Texan” for those adopted Texans from up north.

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Crossword

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Clues Across

1. Type of footwear 5. Studies a lot all at once 10. Adventure story 14. Hundred thousand 15. Former U.S. Vice President 16. Ruler 17. Indian city 18. Similar 19. Ship as cargo 20. Volcanic craters 22. BoxingÕs ÒGOATÓ 23. Bullfighting maneuvers 24. London soccer team 27. Score perfectly 30. No (Scottish) 31. SoCal hoops team (abbr.) 32. Woman (French) 35. Unwanted attic ÒdecorÓ 37. Peter GriffinÕs daughter 38. Broad, shallow crater 39. Large instruments 40. Low bank or reef 41. __ and Venzetti

Sudoku

Clues Down 42. Oil group 43. Father 44. Aggressive men 45. Pairs well with green 46. Travelers need it 47. Digital audiotape 48. Midway between northeast and east 49. Chemistry descriptor 52. S. China seaport 55. Sound unit 56. Heavy cavalry sword 60. Thick piece of something 61. Spa town in Austria 63. Boyfriend 64. Norse personification of old age 65. Type of box 66. Tie together 67. Fiber from the coconut 68. Chicago mayor 69. Old English letters

1. Type of sauce 2. Pattern of notes 3. Plant with long seedpods 4. Map out 5. Numbers cruncher 6. Make a mental connection 7. Italian tenor 8. N. AmericaÕs highest mountain peak 9. Witness 10. Arabic given name 11. Music awards 12. Ò The ImmoralistÓ author 13. Area units 21. Units of loudness 23. Political action committee 25. Bar bill 26. Witch 27. A theatrical performer 28. 2-door car 29. __ and flowed 32. Papier-__, art medium 33. City in Georgia

34. Irregular 36. College sports conference 37. Angry 38. Partner to cheese 40. S. American mammal 41. Self-immolation by fire rituals 43. Split pulses 44. Disfigure 46. Cow noise 47. Erase 49. Chadic language 50. Reward for doing well 51. Paid TV 52. Millisecond 53. Other 54. Colombian city 57. Necklace part 58. Every one of two or more people 59. Regrets 61. They come after ÒAÓ 62. Horse noise

Here’s How It Works

Sudoku puzzles are formatted as a 9x9 grid, broken down into nine 3x3 boxes. To solve a sudoku, the numbers 1 through 9 must fill each row, column and box. Each number can appear only once in each row, column and box. You can figure out the order in which the numbers will appear by using the numeric clues already provided in the boxes. The more numbers you name, the easier it gets to solve the puzzle!

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MARCH 16, 2022

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WINTER TEXAN TIMES

EVENTS

CALENDAR

Through April 3 The Museum of South Texas History presents “Women on the Warfront,” a spotlight exhibit available for viewing through April 3. The exhibit commemorates Women’s History Month and highlights women and the roles they performed during wartime featuring photos, uniforms, and an oral history of Angélica González García. Museum hours are Tuesday to Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. For more information about the exhibit, please contact Melissa Peña at (956) 383-6911 or mjpena@mosthistory.org. It is located downtown Edinburg at 200 North Closner Boulevard on the Hidalgo County Courthouse square. Through August 21 The International Museum of Art & Science (IMAS) will be exhibiting Michelle Stitzlein’s large-scale sculpture exhibition created entirely from recycled materials in a large studio converted from a former grange hall in Baltimore, Ohio. “Industrial Nature” will be exhibited at IMAS in the Cardenas and Main Galleries through August 21, 2022. An opening reception for “Industrial Nature” will be Saturday, July 28, from 5-7 p.m. Learn more about membership online, call (956) 681-2800, or visit the IMAS to join or renew your membership. The museum is located at the intersection of Bicentennial Way and Nolana Avenue at 1900 W. Nolana in McAllen. Modified hours of operation are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday; 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Sundays; Wednesdays 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. are reserved for visitors with sensory sensitivities. Regular admission is $3. March 17 Looking to begin birdwatching? Join Avrel Seale for “Be-

ginner’s Luck: My First Year of Birding” at 6 p.m. on Thursday, March 17, at the Nature Speaker Series at Quinta Mazatlán World Birding Center in McAllen. Tickets are $5 per person. Pre-purchased tickets recommended. Tickets available for purchase at www.quintamazatlan.ticketleap.com. March 25 It’s the VSO’s 70th anniversary. They are celebrating with a gorgeous concert of music featuring Ravel’s bold and beautiful “Bolero” and a stunning solo cello performance of SaintSaens Cello Concerto No. 1 by McAllen native Daniel Saenz. The event will be at 8 p.m. at the McAllen Performing Arts Center. Tickets start at $25. Visit valleyorchestra.org or call (956) 661-1615 for more information or tickets. March 25, 26 The 17th Brownsville Guitar Festival will be held at the TSC Performing Arts Center. There will be guitar ensemble judging and concerts on both days. March 25, at 7 p.m., will feature French guitarist Gaelle Solal. Xavier Jara will be in concert on Saturday, March 26 at 7 p.m. For more information and a full schedule of events and tickets, visit www.brownsvilleguitarfest. com. March 26 Weslaco Area Chamber of Commerce hosts La Cebollita Mid-Valley Farmers Market from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The market will feature local homegrown products including produce, unique artesian items, specialty goods, and more. There will also be live entertainment and a comfortable environment to enjoy with family and friends. The event will be located in Downtown Weslaco at 501 S. Kansas Ave. For more information, call (956) 968-2102 or visit www. weslaco.com.

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3M Retirees and Friend Welcome 3M Retirees and Friends will meet on Wednesday, March 16 at 10:30 a.m. at Victoria Palms Restaurant in Donna. Call Louise at (612) 916-9236 for information. Magic Valley Retirement P.E.O The Magic Valley Retire-

ment P.E.O. group will meet on Tuesday, March 22nd at 11:30 at Mr. Gatti’s in McAllen. It is located at 4100 at N 2nd Street, McAllen. Please call Connie Garrels 402-641-0125 to make a reservation. All Valley retired P.E.O. sisters are invited to attend.

PARKS

From pg. 18

Caller: Robert Ferguson. Dinner - Bentsen Grove Resort, Palmview, 4:30-6pm, Lasagna dinner $10pp, baked potato with pork $9pp. Burgers - Paradise Park, McAllen, 5-6pm. Monday Dinner - Llano Grande Lake Park Resort and Country Club, Mercedes, 5pm, Sour dough French Toast Supper, $9pp. Hynes Event Center. Doors open at 4:30 pm. Ticket deadline 3/17. Tuesday, March 22 Men’s Prayer and Bible Study Bibleville Conference Grounds, Alamo, 8am. Beginner Line Dance - Pharr South Park, Pharr, 8:30-10am, Instructors Noreen Friesen and Pat Yoder. Please bring a small donation for our instructor, $2 is suggested. Women’s Bible Study and Prayer - Bibleville Conference Grounds, Alamo, 9:30am. Lunch - Llano Grande Lake Park Resort and Country Club, Mercedes, 11am-2:30pm, Cafe Grande. Menu available @ Cafe Grande, meal price varies. Lunch - Paradise Park, McAllen, 11:30am-1pm. Music Jam - Roadrunner RV Resort, Alamo, 1-3pm, Lunch 11:30 am - 12:45 pm. Corner of Sioux Rd and Cesar Chavez Rd, two miles north of Hwy 2. Masks preferred. Jam Session - Lakewood RV Resort, Harlingen, 1-2:30pm. Jam - Paradise Park, McAllen, 1-3pm. Country Jam - Oleander Acres, Mission, 1-3pm, Burger lunch served prior 11am-12:30pm. Angus

burger, chips, tea or lemonade. Donations. Country Jam - J-5 Mobile Home Park, Mission, 1-3pm. Happy Hour - Bit-O-Heaven RV Park, Donna, 3-5pm, The Hitman, Tim Dirth. BYOB and Snacks; Pass the hat for donations. Hamburgers - Aladdin Villas, Mission, 4-6pm, $7pp. Bingo - Restful Valley Ranch, Mission, 6:30-9pm, Open to the public. Bingo - Paradise Resort Estates, Pharr, 7-9pm, Doors open at 6:00 pm. Snack bar open. Games begin at 7:00 pm. Dance - Victoria Palms Resort, Donna, 7-10pm, Texas Wheels, $7pp. Country Jam - Casa del Valle Resort Park, Alamo, 7-9pm, Maude Squad Back. Pizza 5:30-6:30pm, $8pp. Wednesday, March 23 Homemade Donuts - Bentsen Grove Resort, Palmview, 7am, Call 956-585-0703 to pre-order. All You Can Eat Breakfast - Enchanted Valley Ranch, Mission, 7:30-9am, $6pp. Bluegrass Jam - Bentsen Palm RV Park, Mission, 9-11am, 50/50, coffee, homemade goodies. New jammers welcome. Lunch - Llano Grande Lake Park Resort and Country Club, Mercedes, 11am-2:30pm, Cafe Grande. Menu available @ Cafe Grande, meal price varies. Weekly Jam - Sunshine RV Resort, Harlingen, 12:30-3pm, 1900 Grace Ave, food $. Open Jam - Bit-O-Heaven RV

Park, Donna, 1-3pm, BYOB, come sing, play or just listen. All welcome. Social Hour Dance - Siesta Retirement Village Park, Weslaco, 3-5pm, Diego & Edith. Soft drinks, popcorn and nachos available. Pass the hat. For information, call 712660-0308. Happy Hour - Victoria Palms Resort, Donna, 3-5pm, Regan James. Music Jam - Heritage Square, Mission, 5:30pm, Hosted by Don McGhghy. Food available 4 to 5:15 pm. 300 S. Bryan Rd. For info: 563340-6493. Singles Mixer - Casa del Valle Resort Park, Alamo, 6-7pm, BYOB. Jam - Circle T RV Park, Mission, 6pm, Cookies and coffee at intermission. Dance - Casa del Valle Resort Park, Alamo, 7-10pm, Texas Wheels, $7pp. BYOB. Dance - Tip O’ Texas RV Resort, Pharr, 7-10pm, $7pp. Thursday, March 24 Pickleball Mixer - Casa del Valle Resort Park, Alamo, 9am-Noon, $2pp. All You Can Eat Pancakes The Grove Subdivision, San Juan, 9-11:30am, Pancakes, eggs, sausage, and endless coffee. Bring you own table service. Country Jam - El Valle Del Sol, Mission, 10am-Noon, Coffee &

COUPON $AVING$

MARCH 16, 2022

cookies. Pass the hat. Lunch - Llano Grande Lake Park Resort and Country Club, Mercedes, 11am-2:30pm, Cafe Grande. Menu available @ Cafe Grande, meal price varies. Lunch - Bentsen Grove Resort, Palmview, 11am-12:30pm, 1/4 lb burger & fries $7pp, 1/2 burger & fries $9pp, baked potato with pork $9pp. Rock & Roll Jam - Bentsen Grove Resort, Palmview, 12:30-2:30pm. All You Can Eat Fish Fry - Llano Grande Lake Park Resort and Country Club, Mercedes, 4:30-6:30pm, Hynes Event Center, $12pp. Big Band Jam - La Hacienda Estates, Alamo, 6:30-8:30pm, Come and enjoy great music, best in the valley! Dance, sing along, or just listen. Pop, ice cream, coffee, and homemade cookies are available. Karaoke - Paradise Resort Estates, Pharr, 6:30-8:30pm, Doors open 6:00 pm. Snack bar open. Singers should arrive early so songs may be downloaded to computer. Prayer and Praise - Bibleville Conference Grounds, Alamo, 7pm. Bingo - Enchanted Valley Ranch, Mission, 7-9pm, $0.50 a card; popcorn/soda available. Dance - Mission Bell Resort, Mission, 7-10pm, Cruisers, $10pp. Dance - McAllen Mobile Park, 7-10pm.

Coupon Index

Air Control A/C & Heating Inc..pg. 32 American Discount Hearing....pg. 10 Buena Vista Optical................pg. 23 Denny’s..................................pg. 21 Freddy’s.................................pg. 21 Matt’s....................................pg. 12 Nikky’s Carpet Cleaning..........pg. 34 Ranch House Burgers.............pg.21 Tierra Del Sol.........................pg. 18 Tint On Wheels.......................pg. 32

MARCH 16, 2022

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Autos

WE BUY MOBILE HOMES, trailer houses, RV’s, 5th wheels, park models. We pay cash, any year, any condition, old or new. Call Ms. Davis anytime at 956-545-1118. 2011 CHEVROLET SILVERADO HALF-TON pickup, 4WD. 505 E. Ramseyer Rd. #62, Edinburg. $17,000 OBO. 936-219-8858. I PAY CASH FOR your travel trailers, park models, fifth wheels, mobile homes and cars. I’ll make you a good deal. Call Jerry Garcia at 956-9293842. TEXAS TRADER RV WILL sell your RV guaranteed! Or we’ll make an offer to buy it, call for your free appraisal today Mark (956) 797-3000 or (956) 357-1048.

Fifth Wheels

2015 CEDAR CREEK CTKS 5TH Wheel washer, dryer, dishwasher, 12 cu refrigerator/ice maker, deep freeze/250 lbs, Sleep Number bed, 5

new tires, air ride, 45” TV raises up & down, fireplace, automatic leveling jacks, 32” bedroom TV, day-night blinds. Phone number 660-973-6211. JUST SAY “SELL IT” at Texas Trader RV. We WILL sell your travel trailer, 5th wheel, motor home, cars, trucks, golf carts and it cost you nothing. Call today for your free appraisal, Mark (956) 797-3000 or (956) 357-1048.

For Rent

NEXT WINTER SEASON ALL Great location, great lot, large mobile home fully furnished. Rent minimum 5 months. Any period from October till May. Larry, 608-790-5852.

For Sale

STICK BUILT HOUSE IN Wagon City North, 1 bedroom with extra queen bed, new appliances and TV. Beautiful over 55 park with many activities. 2905 N. Conway. For more info call 515-360-5726.

WINTER TEXAN TIMES

2005 DODGE RAM 4-DOOR 8 ft. box, one owner, 135,000 miles. 2016 fifth wheel, three slideouts, 30 ft. lawn. Sold together for $40,000. 956-2701122.

used Lazyboy recliner, dresser, vintage sewing machine, glass baskets & teapots, collectibles, book cases, jewelry cabinet and more. RAIN or SHINE.

COMMUNITY GARAGE SALE SOUTHGATE Subdivision Pharr, Saturday March 19 8am-3pm. Dishes, furniture, jewelry, clothing, electronics, household, lawn & garden, plus much more. NO EARLY SALES. ST. PAUL’S LUTHERAN ANNUAL RUMMAGE Sale! March 19th, 8:00 am - 1:00 pm. 300 W. Pecan Blvd., McAllen. 956-682-2345. VAL’S KOUNTRY CORRAL GARAGE sale, March 19th, 7am - 11am. Rec Hall, open to the public. Donuts, muffins, and hot coffee for sale. ESTATE SALE WINTERGREEN ESTATES @ 500 N. Bryan Road, Lot N-9 Thursday-Saturday, March 17th 9-5 pm, March 18th 9-5 pm, March 19th 8-2 pm. Tons of scrapbooking supplies, crafts, curio cabinet, gently

JUST SAY “SELL IT” at Texas Trader RV. We WILL sell your travel trailer, 5th wheel, motor home, cars, trucks, golf carts and it cost you nothing. Call today for your free appraisal, Mark (956) 797-3000 or (956) 357-1048.

Garage Sales

Golf Carts

Help Wanted

RON HOOVER RV & MARINE is hiring to fill an opening in the parts department. This is a great match for a semi-retiree. Apply in person during regular business hours at 101 E. Expressway 83 in Donna. NOW HIRING KITCHEN HELP, servers, hostess, food runner, bartender. Riverside Club, 214 East Chimney Road, Mission, Texas 78572. Ask for Jennifer, 956-581-1033.

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WINTER TEXAN TIMES

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Homes For Sale

HIDDEN VALLEY CARRIAGE HOUSE RV lot in Hidden Valley Ranch with 700 sq. ft. carriage house. Beautiful custom hickory cabinetry. Furnished. A must see for $95,000 at 2300 Double Eagle Dr., Mission, TX. 956-874-3900. WINTERING ON GOLF COURSE Enjoy retirement living at Adobe Wells in your home directly next to the golf course. Over 1000 sq. ft. with a very large garageworkshop. Call Andy, 575-449-4755, $72,000. LUXURIOUS HOME IN SOUTHGATE This 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath offers a spacious interior. Features include custom woodwork, oversized garage, and a chef’s dream kitchen. Call 956271-3683 to schedule a showing. Sale price $289,900.00. 2,893 sq. ft.

Lots For Sale RV LOT FOR SALE 45’ x 75’ lot, shed, large concrete pad, fruit and palm trees, 2 cactus gardens, 3 zone sprinkler system, maintenance fee paid thru mid Feb. 2023. W and I Resort, Lot #131, 206 S. Stewart Road,

METAL ROOFS Valley-Wide Service

Manufactured Homes

WE BUY MOBILE HOMES, trailer houses, RV’s, 5th wheels, park models. We pay cash, any year, any condition, old or new. Call Ms. Davis anytime at 956-545-1118.

Miscellaneous

WE BUY MOBILE HOMES, trailer houses, RV’s, 5th wheels, park models. We pay cash, any year, any condition, old or new. Call Ms. Davis anytime at 956-545-1118.

Mobile Homes

MOBILE HOME FOR SALE 1996 Southbrook 14x40, one bedroom, furnished, updated flooring, double roof, two sheds, washer, dryer, awning 12x40, heat pump/air conditioner. Call 705-933-8842. FOR SALE $15,000 36’ mobile home, 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom, lots of closet and drawer space, 2 TV’s, double recliner. Large shed 12’x10’x10’ high with washer and dryer. Choice location. 956-647-1502.

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I PAY CASH FOR your travel trailers, park models, fifth wheels, mobile homes and cars. I’ll make you a good deal. Call Jerry Garcia at 956-9293842. 24X40 DOUBLE WIDE MOBILE Royal Palms, Alamo, 55+ community. 2 bedroom, 2 bath, new heat/AC, water heater, many upgrades, two storage sheds and lot. 785-806-5709.

Motor Homes

2004 DAMON INTRUDER MOTORHOME 36 ft., two slideouts, queen bed. Ordered with every possible option. Rough outside like new inside. 31k miles. Call for details. $18,000 firm. Dale 218214-2315. 2000 DAMON INTRUDER MOTORHOME, 36’, 1 slide, queen size bed, sleeps 4, refrigerator, AC, shower/toilet, full kitchen, generator 6.5kw, back up camera, tons of storage. Asking $18,000 OBO 210-296-5779. TEXAS TRADER RV WILL sell your RV guaranteed! Or we’ll make an offer to buy it, call for your free appraisal today Mark (956) 7973000 or (956) 357-1048.

MARCH 16, 2022

Park Models

2000 RV PARK MODEL two tipouts, new floor, stove, fridge, AC, heater, decking, everything works good. Asking $9,000.00 or best offer. Call 956263-3329. Available 3/28. 2005 ATHENS PARK MODEL own lot 168. Furnished. Texas room, recently remodeled with bedroom, bathroom, laundry room. ADA dues just $100.00 last year. Very nice. $38,500.00. 612940-5386. I PAY CASH FOR your travel trailers, park models, fifth wheels, mobile homes and cars. I’ll make you a good deal. Call Jerry Garcia at 956-9293842.

RVs

I PAY CASH FOR your travel trailers, park models, fifth wheels, mobile homes and cars. I’ll make you a good deal. Call Jerry Garcia at 956-9293842. TEXAS TRADER RV WILL sell your RV guaranteed! Or we’ll make an offer to buy it, call for your free appraisal today Mark (956) 797-3000 or (956) 357-1048.

MARCH 16, 2022

Services

AC/HEATING SERVICES CALL COLAIR Breathe easy with Colair, Inc – We service all models. No Hassle – Satisfaction Guaranteed. Proudly serving the RGV for over 35 years! Valleywide (956)255-8900.

Travel Trailers

2017 CROSSROADS TRAVEL TRAILER Like new and super clean. Aluminum frame. Fiberglass exterior. Large slide, awning & windows. All accessories included. Sleeps 5. 29’ 5700 lbs. Call for pics. 763-691-4921. I PAY CASH FOR your travel trailers, park models, fifth wheels, mobile homes and cars. I’ll make you a good deal. Call Jerry Garcia at 956-9293842. JUST SAY “SELL IT” at Texas Trader RV. We WILL sell your travel trailer, 5th wheel, motor home, cars, trucks, golf carts and it cost you nothing. Call today for your free appraisal, Mark (956) 797-3000 or (956) 357-1048. WE PAY TOP CASH for your travel trailers, 5th wheels, park models, mobile homes, and cars. We leave your lot clean. 956-867-2366.

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TEXAS TRADER RV WANTS to BUY your RV, all types trailer, motor homes, minis & camper vans! Call today for your free appraisal! Mark (956) 7973000 or (956) 357-1048.

Want To Buy

WE BUY MOBILE HOMES, trailer houses, RV’s, 5th wheels, park models. We pay cash, any year, any condition, old or new. Call Ms. Davis anytime at 956-545-1118. TEXAS TRADER RV WANTS to BUY your RV, all types trailer, motor homes, minis & camper vans! Call today for your free appraisal! Mark (956) 7973000 or (956) 357-1048.

Wanted

WE BUY MOBILE HOMES, trailer houses, RV’s, 5th wheels, park models. We pay cash, any year, any condition, old or new. Call Ms. Davis anytime at 956-545-1118. I PAY CASH FOR your travel trailers, park models, fifth wheels, mobile homes and cars. I’ll make you a good deal. Call Jerry Garcia at 956-929-3842. WANTED TO BUY WWII Japanese Arisaka rifle - type 99 (7.7

For Your Health & Ours We Are Following CDC Guidance Including Wearing Masks & Gloves

NIKKY’S CARPET CLEANING Professional Cleaning Services Winter Texan Special

Any size RV or Park Model

WINTER TEXAN TIMES

cal.) in original condition. Call Ken at 956-447-4530. I’LL PAY CASH FOR your golf cart, I’ll make you a good deal. Call me today. 956-929-3842 or 956-432-5325.

TEXAS TRADER RV WANTS to BUY your RV, all types trailer, motor homes, minis & camper vans! Call today for your free appraisal! Mark (956) 797-3000 or (956) 3571048.

Do you have writing and/or photography talents you would like to share? If so, we are looking for you. The Winter Texan Times is looking for Winter Texan writer-photographers with availability for one or two story assignments per week from November through March. If you are interested, please email me a writing and photography sample. Include your best contact number, where you plan to stay next season, and your preferred travel radius from your RGV home for story assignments. We will need coverage in the Upper, Mid and Lower Valley regions of Hidalgo and Cameron counties. Send your samples and any questions to Carina@WinterTexanTimes.com

Classified inquiries and ads can be sent to classifieds@wintertexantimes.com or visit our website at wintertexantimes.com.

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© Copyright 2021-2022 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.

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SUMMER ONLINE CLASSIFIEDS 3 Months for $10* *First 25 words

Personal classifieds ads include up to 25 words, plus Boldface Lead-in (2-4 words). Your ad will run on our website at www.wintertexantimes.com. *Business word ad rate: $20 for up to 25 words.

40-Word Limit Valid anytime April thru September

CLASSIFIEDS ADS

Upcoming Publication Dates Wednesday r Mar. 23 r Mar. 30

Personal classifieds ads include up to 25 words, plus Boldface Lead-in (2-4 words). Your ad will also run on our website at www.wintertexantimes.com at no additional charge. *Business word ad rate: $20 for up to 25 words.

Your Name:_____________________________

Phone # (Required): ______________________

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r Personal Ad r Business Ad

MARCH 16, 2022

Ad Deadline Wednesday 5 p.m. Mar. 16 Mar. 23

ONLY

PER WEEK

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Choose one of the following classifications. r Golf Carts r Miscellaneous r Scooters r Autos r Help Wanted r Mobile Homes r Services r Boats r Home For Sale r Motorcycles r Travel Trailers r For Rent r 5th Wheels r Motor Homes r Wanted r For Sale r Garage Sales r Lots For Sale r Park Models

Be Sure To Include Your Telephone Number or Address In The Ad!

Boldface Lead-in:

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Payment Method r Check #___________ r Cash r Visa r Discover r Mastercard r AMEX Amount Paid:___________

25 Words For $10.00* - Each Additional Word is 20¢ Mail this form with Check or Money Order To: Winter Texan Times • 1217 N. Conway, Mission, Texas 78572 (956) 580-7800 • Submit online at www.wintertexantimes.com • E-mail to classifieds@wintertexantimes.com • Fax to 956-580-7898 For credit/debit payment we will contact you within one business day of receiving your submission. Sorry, no ad copy by phone.

25 Words For $9.00* - Each Additional Word is 20¢ Mail this form with Check or Money Order To: Winter Texan Times • 1217 N. Conway, Mission, Texas 78572 (956) 580-7800 • Submit online at www.wintertexantimes.com • E-mail to classifieds@wintertexantimes.com • Fax to 956-580-7898 For credit/debit payment we will contact you within one business day of receiving your submission. Sorry, no ad copy by phone.

MARCH 16, 2022

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WINTER TEXAN TIMES

March 16, 2022 - Winter Texan Times, Vol. 35, No. 22

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