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Things you learn when you travel

I am sure the golfers are all wishing the weather would co-operate. It is just too, too cold to be out on a golf cart. In fact, it’s been too cold to be out.

Since our editor has asked me to write about some of my experiences related to travel, I will have to tell you about the time I decided to learn how to play golf. I had participated in many sports but never had I tried golf. So why not? At one time I had played intramural sports at the University of Texas, I had been runner up champion in a table tennis tournament, I had played intramural tag football, I broke my little finger trying to catch a fly baseball. Surely, I could master that game of golf. Why I had even been knocked out on the basketball court. Surely, I could learn to play golf. And it all happened because of traveling. So here goes.

I called the Harlingen Country Club and spoke with the pro as I wanted to sign up for lessons. The beginners group consisted of several other women. That pro had his hands full. I listened attentively to all the instructions as to the grip, the stance and thought surely, I could master everything. Then it came my turn to hit that little ball, and I gave it my all. And sure enough, that little white ball went sailing off into the wild blue. Even I was in awe.

But then several of the women began to oh and awe at how great I was. To tell you the truth I was quite proud of myself. But not for long. The pro - apparently trying to encourage the other women - made the comment, “Well, ladies, she is just naturally athletic.”

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January 29, 2025 - Rina's Ramblings

Well, here I am getting a little closer to y’all. I turned another year older yesterday – the big 5 0. So almost there where I can stay in a park and be having as much fun as y’all are – on a daily basis. Believe me, I do think I would take advantage of the activities your parks have, or neighboring parks have.

There is so much going on at the parks this time of year.

There are dances, entertainment, happy hours, dinners, dances, pool, pickleball, sewing groups, reading clubs, and so much more.

We love seeing photos on Facebook of all the activities y’all are participating in. It makes me want to be out there more often.

This week, I had the chance to go to the Gospel Extravaganza at Winter Ranch. I went last year and enjoyed it, but had to go again because one, it was on my birthday, and two, to not only catch up with Bob and Alta, but also see Scott, who I haven’t seen since he performed at a Valley Star Awards years ago with Absolutely Country, Definitely Gospel.

It’s a yearly event where proceeds are donated to local charities. Different performers join Bob and Alta each year. If you didn’t catch it this year, be sure to watch next season for next year’s dates.

I look forward to these yearly events and catching new Wintertainers™ and seeing familiar faces as well.

Do you have any special events you look forward to each year?

Any reunions, special dances, a certain Wintertainer™?

Share what you look forward to each year. You can send what you love about the RGV to news@wintertexantimes.com.
~ Rina

La Floresta RV Resort announces Couples Par 3 Golf Tournament winners

20250120 170844 USE USE webOn January 18, La Floresta RV Resort near Mercedes had a couples Par 3 golf tournament. There were two categories - gross score and net score. If it was the first time playing in this tournament, the couples had to sign up for gross score as they haven't had a handicap established. If they had a handicap, they could choose which category they wanted to play in. If you chose net score, you would subtract your handicap from your 18-hole score. They had two new winners this year. The winner of the lowest gross score runs the tournament the following year and receives a plaque which was donated by last year's winners, Jim Monier and Darla Strait. The gross winners were Murray and Pat Pratt. The net score winners were Dan Streff and Bonnie Kadell. Photos submitted by Darla Strait.

Tim Hadler bring his George Strait show to the Island

20250129 TH GS Promo sm CROPPED webTim Hadler will be bringing his George Strait show – Strait to Branson – from Branson to South Padre Island next month at the Holiday Inn Resort on February 1, 8, 22 and March 8. He will also perform a Valentine Walk Through the Decades dance on Thursday, February 13 at the resort.

Tim was born as the youngest of nine children and raised on a farm in the foothills of the volcano Mount St. Helens. He often jokes that his first audience was the cows he used to sing to on the farm. Since those days of farming, he’s always loved to sing and dreamed of someday taking his talent to Nashville and beyond. It was never so much to be a star, but to be able to help those in need because he could, something that was instilled in him by his parents.

Read more: Tim Hadler bring his George Strait show to the Island

Annual Retired Nurses Luncheon is February 11

All retired RNs/LVNs and LPNs in the Rio Grande Valley are invited to a buffet luncheon on Tuesday, February 11 at Peter Piper Pizza, 3101 E. Expressway 83, in Weslaco. No reservations required. Check-in is at 12:30 p.m. with lunch at 1 p.m., followed by social, announcements and door prizes. Call or text Jan Bergman at (956) 532-1223 for any questions. Jan Bergman, Coordinator, introduces RGV Nurse Honor Guard members who presented their mission and services for deceased nurses at a previous annual Nurse’s Luncheon. (Courtesy photo)

Professional artists and local musicians come together for special performance

20250122 Professional artists and musicians 01 webThe Brownsville Society for the Performing Arts (BSPA) is thrilled to present "Presence & Light!" an exhilarating new musical event showcasing the brilliance of international guest artists, esteemed music teachers, and exceptional star students. This unique concert features new music by the internationally recognized composer Reena Esmail, promising an unforgettable evening of extraordinary musical performances.

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CarFest celebrates 15 years of automotive excellence

20210227 McAllen Car Show ALB 041 webThe highly anticipated McAllen International CarFest is back to celebrate its 15th Anniversary from Friday, January 31, through Sunday, February 2, at the McAllen Convention Center. With over 300 stunning vehicles, thrilling attractions, and activities for the entire family, CarFest remains the premier automotive event in South Texas.

“Fifteen years ago, we saw a need to unite car enthusiasts and provide one of the few car shows with judges from the National Hot Rod Association,” said Al Diaz, Assistant Director of the McAllen Convention Center.

Read more: CarFest celebrates 15 years of automotive excellence

Bentsen Park announces February activities

20250122 Bentsen Cardinal Picture1 PRINTBentsen-RGV State Park has a few February events to announce to residents. Scheduled programs are free with park admission. All programs meet at the tram turnaround at park headquarters unless otherwise specified

Bird walks continue every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday at 8:30 a.m. Wild Wellness will be held on Friday, February 21, at 8:30 a.m. It does require a reservation with sign-up beginning on the first of the month

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Discover the natural treasures of SPI at wildlife expo

20210202 SPI SPI Birding Center CAB 5699 webGet ready to immerse yourself in the natural splendor of South Texas and the lower Laguna Madre with distinguished guest speakers, engaging exhibits, diverse vendors, and exciting pre-expo field trips to the wildest places in the area.

The 29th Annual Winter Wildlife Expo will be held at the South Padre Island Birding Nature Center and Alligator Sanctuary February 6 through 8. Admission is $10 per day. Saturday, February 8, is Family Day, when all kids 15 and under have free admission.

Read more: Discover the natural treasures of SPI at wildlife expo

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