Winter Texan TIMES Serving Winter Texans From Mission To South Padre Island Since 1987 Vol. 38, No. 8 © 2024 www.wintertexantimes.com Wednesday, December 4, 2024 Merry Christmas! INDEX Events Calendar p 4 Reunions p 6 Parks Calendar p 8 WintertainersTM p 8 On The Road p 12 Taste of the Valley p 15 Business Guide p 17 Classifieds p 17 Coupon Index p 19 Rina’s Ramblings See RAMBLINGS pg. 16 I do hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving last week. I hope you had time to reflect on your many blessings and give thanks to those around you. I also hope you had time to visit with friends and family and maybe make some new friends at park gatherings. I have seen photos on Facebook of the myriad of gatherings held last week for the holiday and it looks like there was a lot fun had and a lot of food to eat. It’s been good to have some nicer weather lately to help get us more in the spirit of the season. The cooler weather changes your mood and it’s a good time to get outside and enjoy it and discover new things in the Valley. With the weather being nicer right now, it’s the opportunity to find some new trails, parks, a golf course, or play some pickleball. I don’t like the chillier mornings and prefer to wait until the sun has warmed the air up a bit, but I do like being outdoors a bit more when the weather is this nice. We do have some much needed rain in the forecast Celebrate the true spirit of Christmas at Calvary Baptist Church as they present this year’s Christmas cantata “How Should a King Come.” The cantata features a 35-member choir with piano and orchestra under the direction of Dr. Bill O’Neil. The concerts will be presented on Friday December 13 at 7 p.m. and Saturday December 14 at 3:30 p.m. Dr. Daniel Cather will accompany on piano, as he has done for the past 10 years of service as a Worship Leader at Calvary See CALVARY pg. 13 Calvary Baptist Church presents How Should a King Come Calvary Baptist Church Choir. Courtesy photo It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas and cities throughout the Valley are holding their tree lightings and parades. Here are more cities that are gearing up for the holiday season. There are two celebrations being held today, Wednesday, December 4. Rio Grande City will have their lighting of the Christmas Tree at 6 p.m. downtown on BritSee HOLIDAYS pg. 20 Valley cities light up for the holidays 2019 Hidalgo Festival of Lights. Photo by Anastasia Brunson
DECEMBER 4, 2024 www.wintertexantimes.com 2 WINTER TEXAN TIMES 1217 N. Conway, Mission, Texas 78572 (956) 580-7800 www.wintertexantimes.com © Copyright 2024-2025 by Nexus Publishing LLC, all rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without express written permission of the publisher. The Winter Texan Times is not responsible for errors or omissions in advertising. In the event of an error in an ad or omission of an ad, the newspaper’s financial liability is limited to the cost of the ad in questions. The newspaper is not responsible for any other damages, tangible or intangible. Typically a make-good ad or re-rescheduled ad is considered to sufficiently meet the newspaper’s responsibility. Dan Brunson Publisher dan@wintertexantimes.com Carina Brunson Editor carina@wintertexantimes.com Anastasia Brunson Office Manager anastasia@wintertexantimes.com Published by Nexus Publishing LLC Parks Calendar: Items must be open to the public activities in the parks only and must be submitted by park owners, managers, or activity directors. We do not accept listings for reviews, workshops, lessons, or dance classes. Please include all pertinent information, a contact person, and contact phone number. Submission deadline is Thursday 5 p.m., the week prior to the publication date. Send to Winter Texan Times, 1217 N. Conway Ave., Mission, Texas 78572 or email to parkscal@wintertexantimes.com. News: We are always looking for news about events, organizations, exhibits, fundraising, and more, from parks, chambers, cities, museums, and other venues. You are welcome submit your news items, photos of recent park activities, or news story ideas about your park or park residents. Please include all pertinent information, a contact person, and contact phone number. Submission deadline is Thursday 5 p.m., the week prior to the publication date. Send to Winter Texan Times, 1217 N. Conway Ave., Mission, Texas 78572 or email to news@wintertexantimes.com. Events Calendar: Items must be open to the public. Please include all pertinent information, a contact person, and contact phone number. Submission deadline is Thursday 5 p.m., the week prior to the publication date. Send to Winter Texan Times, 1217 N. Conway Ave., Mission, Texas 78572 or email to news@wintertexantimes.com. Reunions: We feature reunions and meetings that are happening throughout the Valley. We hope that if you are having such a meeting, you will send the information to us so we can help you spread the word. Please include all pertinent information, a contact person, and contact phone number. Submission deadline is Thursday 5 p.m., the week prior to the publication date. Send to Winter Texan Times, 1217 N. Conway Ave., Mission, Texas 78572 or email to reunions@wintertexantimes.com. www.wintertexantimes.com Mission Health & Wellness Fair this week The Greater Mission Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with Mission Regional Medical Center and the City of Mission, is excited to announce the 29th Annual Mission Community Health & Wellness Fair, scheduled for December 5th and 6th, from 7 to 11:30 a.m. at the Mission Event Center, located at 200 N. Shary Road, Mission, Texas. This event, free and open to the public, will provide a variety of essential health services, including flu vaccines, blood labs, QuantoFlo test, blood pressure checks, strength tests, stroke risk assessments, medication reviews, bone density tests, and more. With a focus on promoting community health and well-being, the fair offers residents and visitors a chance to access important health screenings and information at no cost. “We are blessed to host this annual wellness event that brings vital health resources directly to our community and free of charge,” said Brenda Enriquez, President & CEO of the Greater Mission Chamber of Commerce. “In collaboration with our partners, we’re ensuring our residents have access to healthcare; a healthy community is a healthy and booming economy.” For further details or to book a free bloodwork appointment, please call (956) 585-2727 or visit missionchamber.com BSPA presents annual Christmas concert The Brownsville Society for Performing Arts presents their annual Christmas concert on Tuesday, December 10. The concert, featuring Alium Spiritum, will feature The UTRGV Master Chorale and the Brownsville Festival Chorus and orchestra performing Handel’s Messiah collections and more. The concert will be held at 7 p.m. at the TSC Performing Arts Center, 90 Taylor Ave. in Brownsville. Admission is free, but donations are gratefully accepted. Join the wonderful folks who keep this Brownsville tradition going strong. A huge part of BSPA’s mission is to connect every walk of life in Brownsville with the discovery and rewards of arts and culture, especially through live music. BSPA gets their support from many sources, but most importantly from contributions that come from members of the community. Contributions allow the BSPA to produce world-class musical events in Brownsville. Individual donations range from $10 to $100, all of which supports music, music education in Brownsville and supports musicians, from students of all ages to professionals, through BSPA’s productions. This holiday concert event provides an exceptional opportunity to see how students and professionals come together to produce wonderful music for the community. For more information on how you can help or about more upcoming concerts, visit their website at www.brosoperformingarts. org, call (956) 518-7070, or find them on Facebook.
3 WINTER TEXAN TIMES www.wintertexantimes.com DECEMBER 4, 2024 1101 East Business 83 • Donna, TX 1 1/2 miles West of Don-Wes Flea Market www.galvaninsuranceagency.com *Premiums subject to carrier underwriting. Rates subject to change. *$284.00per year. Conditions Apply. As Low as Call or Come See Us 956-464-2886 MOBILE HOME INSURANCE Basic and Comprehensive Plans MOBILE HOME Basic and Comprehensive Plans Flood Coverage & Mexico Auto Insurance Available Park Models Motor Homes “Casitas” Travel Trailers Autos Golf Carts 5th Wheels Motorcycles And more... 1101 East Business 83 • Donna,TX 1 1/2 milesWest of Don-Wes Flea Market www.galvaninsuranceagency.com * Premiums subject to carrier underwriting. Rates subject to change. Call or Come See Us 956-464-2886 per year. As Low as *$284.00 Conditions Apply HIDALGO COUNTY We Also Offer Coverage For: MOBILE HOME INSURANCE Basic and Comprehensive Plans Flood Coverage & Mexico Auto Insurance Available Park Models Motor Homes “Casitas” Travel Trailers Autos Golf Carts 5th Wheels Motorcycles And more... 1101 East Business 83 • Donna,TX 1 1/2 milesWest of Don-Wes Flea Market www.galvaninsuranceagency.com * Premiums subject to carrier underwriting. Rates subject to change. Call or Come See Us 956-464-2886 per year. As Low as *$284.00 Conditions Apply HIDALGO COUNTY We Also Offer Coverage For: Park Models Motor Homes “Casitas” Travel Trailers Autos Golf Carts 5th Wheels Motorcycles And more... Basic and Comprehensive Plans Flood Coverage & Mexico Auto Insurance Available Park Models Motor Homes “Casitas” Travel Trailers Autos Golf Carts 5th Wheels Motorcycles And more... 1101 East Business 83 • Donna,TX 1 1/2 milesWest of Don-Wes Flea Market www.galvaninsuranceagency.com * Premiums subject to carrier underwriting. Rates subject to change. per year. As Low as Conditions Apply We Also Offer Coverage For: Flood Coverage & Mexico Auto Insurance Available UVAL hosts holiday market The Upper Valley Art League will host their Holiday Market December 7 through December 14 from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily. UVAL is located at the Kika de la Garza Fine Arts Center, 921 E. 12th St., in Mission. The UVAL Holiday Market is a festive event that showcases unique handmade items, local artisan crafts, and fine art. Visitors can enjoy an atmosphere filled with seasonal cheer and shop for one-of-akind gifts made by our local member artists. Stop by and embrace the holiday spirit while supporting local artists. This event is FREE and open to the public. For more information, call (956) 5910282 or visit their website at www.uppervalleyartleague. org. Velvet Jazz Concert at Quinta Mazatlan Get ready to celebrate the season with an unforgettable Holiday Music Series at Quinta Mazatlán in December. The concert series will feature three exciting nights of live music, food, drinks, and holiday cheer. The Holiday Music Series kicks off on December 5th with an evening of smooth jazz performed by the talented Velvet Jazz group. Velvet Jazz is made up of several members from RGV Jazz Collective which is an organization created by musicians in the RGV who support jazz, neo-soul, hip-hop, fusion and other genres that fall under the jazz umbrella. Along with incredible live music, there will be delicious offerings to enjoy throughout the event. Doce Wine will be serving a selection of wine and craft beer, while Twin’s Funnel Bar and Purrfect Bake Shoppe will provide tasty pastries and refreshing drinks to complement the festivities. This family-friendly event offers a perfect opportunity to gather with friends and loved ones, enjoy great music, and experience the holiday spirit in a beautiful outdoor setting. The concert is from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Tickets are $7 and can be purchased at quintamazatlan. ticketleap.com. A free shuttle ride will be provided from a temporary parking area located at 1400 Wichita Ave., near La Plaza Mall. For additional information, please call (956) 681-3370. Velvet Jazz is bringing the smooth sounds of the season to Quinta Mazatlan. Photo courtesy of Quinta Mazatlan
DECEMBER 4, 2024 www.wintertexantimes.com 4 WINTER TEXAN TIMES EVENTS CALENDAR Now-December 15 – Tip of Texas Family Outreach is helping grant children’s holiday wishes. An angel Tree will be located near JCPenny Court at Sunrise Mall for guests and shoppers to pick up an angel’s information. Gifts may be returned to Sunrise Mall Office, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. during the week. Sunrise Mall is located at Expressway 77 at Ruben M. Torres (FM 802) in Brownsville. December 4 – City of La Joya will have their tree lighting at 6 p.m. at La Joya City Hall. December 5 – Quinta Mazatlan kicks off their Holiday Music Series at 6:30 p.m. with an evening of smooth jazz performed by the Velvet Jazz group. There will also be pastries and drinks. Tickets are $7 and can be purchased at quintamazatlan.ticketleap.com. A free shuttle ride will be provided from a temporary parking area located at 1400 Wichita Ave., near La Plaza Mall. For more information, call (956) 681-3370. December 5 – The City of Edinburg will host their Lighting of the Tree from 6 to 10 p.m. at the Promenade Park Amphitheater and will also feature a holiday market running until 9 p.m. There will be carolers, food vendors, and vendors for holiday shopping. It is located at 201 W. McIntyre St. For more information, visit www.edinburgarts.com/miracleonmcintyre. December 5 – Join the VA Texas Valley Coastal Bend Health Care System for a series of informative Veteran Townhalls where you’ll learn about the latest regarding VA facilities that serve Veterans. The event will be held from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at the McAllen VA Clinic, 901 East Hackberry Ave. December 6 – The City of Edinburg will host their Night of Lights Parade at 7 p.m. along Closner Blvd. Downtown Edinburg will be transformed into a festive wonderland with the theme Country Christmas. The event will also feature a holiday market running until 10 p.m. There will be carolers, food vendors, and vendors for holiday shopping. It is located at 201 W. McIntyre St. For more information, visit www.edinburgarts.com/ miracleonmcintyre. December 6 – The Valley Symphony presents their holiday tradition A Touch of Frost featuring holiday favorites with the Valley Symphony Chorale. Concert is at the McAllen Performing Arts Center at 8 p.m. For more information and tickets, call (956) 661-1615 or visit online at www.valleysymphony.org. December 6-8, 13-15 – Camille Playhouse, 1 Dean Porter Park, in Brownsville, presents Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol. Shows are at 7 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, and 2 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. Tickets are available at the box office or online at www. camilleplayhouse.net. December 6, 8, 12-15, 19-22 – PSJA North Early College High School will present Charlie and the Chocolate Factory: The Musical. Shows are 7:30 p.m. Thursdays through Saturday, and 2 p.m. on Sundays. They will be performed at the Gilbert Zepeda Performing Arts Center, 500 E. Nolana Loop, in Pharr. December 7 – The Brownsville Farmers Market will be held at 9 a.m. at Linear Park, E. 6th St. and E. Ringgold St. The event is held every Saturday. December 7 – Firemen’s Park in McAllen will host the Growing Growers Farmers Market at 9 a.m. The park is located at 201 N. 1st St. The event is held every Saturday. December 7 – The McAllen Farmers Market will be held at the McAllen Public Library from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. The event is held
5 WINTER TEXAN TIMES www.wintertexantimes.com DECEMBER 4, 2024 every Saturday. The library is located at 4001 N. 23rd St. For more information visit mcallenfarmersmarket.com. December 7-14 – The Upper Valley Art League will hold their Holiday Market from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. each day. Original art created by local artists providing a great variety of unique gifts for the holiday season will be available. UVAL is located at Kika de la Garza Arts Center, 921 E. 12th St. in Mission, next to Speer Memorial Library. Call (956) 581-0282 or visit uppervalleyartleagure.org for more information. December 7 – City of La Joya will have their Magic of Christmas parade along Leo Avenue at 12 p.m. A Christmas Festival will be held after the event at La Joya Lions Municipal Park, 600 Coyote Drive. December 7 – The City of Port Isabel will have their tree lighting and parade starting at 6 p.m. with the parade at Laguna Madre Youth Center. Tree lighting will be held at Beulah Lee Park. December 7-8, 12-15 – PSJA Early College High School will present The Wizard of Oz at 7:30 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, and 2:30 p.m. on Sundays. They will be performing at PSJA ECHS Auditorium, 805 W. Ridge Rd. in San Juan. December 7 – Enjoy traditional Christmas music from all around Latin-American with Navidad Latinamericana en Concierto at the UTRGV Performing Arts Complex, 1201 W. University Dr., Edinburg, at 3 p.m. Admission is free. Doors open at 2 p.m. For more information, visit www.utrgvarts.edu/arts. December 8 – The South Padre Island Farmers Market is held at The Shores, 8605 Padre Blvd., every Sunday from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Shop for fresh produce, meats, cheese, juices and more. To see this event and others, visit https://www.sopadre.com/listing/ south-padre-island-farmers-market/1099/. December 8 – The Museum of South Texas History will host its traditional holiday festivity, Fiesta de Nochebuena from 1 to 5 p.m. It will feature a posada, special museum tours, crafts, entertainment, sweets and eats, and more. The museum is located at 200 N. Closner, in Edinburg. Call (956) 3836911 for more information. December 8 – Buena Vida Farmers Market will be held from 2 to 4:30 p.m., every Sunday, at Bannworth Park, 1822 N. Shary Rd., in Mission. Pre-orders can be made online at BuenaVidaFarmersMarket.com. For vendor info, call (512) 554-9713. December 8 – UTRGV is proud to present the UTRGV Youth Orchestra as they perform live in Edinburg at the UTRGV performing Arts Complex, 1201 W. University Dr., at 5 p.m. General admission is $6. For more information, visit www.utrgvarts.edu/arts. December 11 – Celebrate the birth of your Savior at Abiding Savior Lutheran Church at Advent by Candlelight at 3 p.m. There will be Christmas Carols, devotion, and a fellowship meal. RSVP for meal at (956) 968-5228. For more information, visit www.abidingsaviorwels.com. The church is located on the northeast corner of Westgate Dr. and 6th Street in Weslaco, 599 S. Westgate Dr. December 12 – Edinburg Library will host Holly Jolly Winter Celebration from 6 to 8 p.m. The library is located at 1906 S. Closner Blvd. The event will feature activities for all ages, booths, and free books. For more information, call (956) 383-6246. December 12 – Quinta Mazatlan presents an evening with traditional Mariachi and Folklorico performers from La Joya Palmview High School as part of their Holiday Music Series. The event begins at 6:30 p.m. and will also have food and drinks available. Tickets are $7 and can be purchased at quintamazatlan.ticketleap.com. A free shuttle ride will be provided from a temporary parking area located at 1400 Wichita Ave., near La Plaza Mall. For more information, call (956) 681-3370.
DECEMBER 4, 2024 www.wintertexantimes.com 6 WINTER TEXAN TIMES COME SEE WHAT OUR 30 YEARS CAN DO FOR YOU! What Does It Take To Be The #1 Mobile Home Retailer For Over 30 Years? GREAT LOCATION 3201 E. EXP. 83 • DONNA, TX 78537 (956) 464-3378 GREAT STAFF GREAT REPUTATION GREAT PRODUCTS Exclusively Offering The ENERGY SMART PACKAGE GREAT SERVICE Our service extends beyond the sale; providing you service throughout your full warranty period. “I have to say that the quality of service is one of the best thanks to Javier Piña. He made our experience the best of all times - very satisfied with customer service.” --Israel Ruiz, Customer Review of Donna Clayton Homes www.claytonhomesdonna.com Doug Fowler Javier Bruno Rafe Nora Joe Elias Rachel Linda Hilda Reunions are a great time to catch up with friends, old and new. Here we will feature reunions and meetings that are happening throughout the Valley. We hope that if you are having such a meeting, you will send the information to us so we can help you spread the word. You can send your information to news@wintertexantimes.com. Ed Marten’s Senior Texas Softball League The Ed Marten’s Senior Texan Softball Leagues are open to all individual men and women aged 55 years and older. Practices and games are played at the City of McAllen West Side Park, on S. Ware Road, across from the Convention Center, at 9 a.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Practices run now through the end of December. Teams will be selected for the season in January with playoffs in March. Call Fred Esqueda (956) 897-6961 or Mike Brower (734) 834-0128 for more information. Senior Ambassadors The Senior Ambassadors meet every Friday afternoon at Bentsen Grove Resort in Mission each Friday from 1 to 3 p.m. There are no tryouts. If someone has sung in another choir and enjoys singing, they can join the Ambassadors. If you enjoy singing and would like to be a part of the Senior Ambassadors Men’s Chorus, either attend a practice session or call the Director, Virgel Kroeker at (612) 8597787. RGV Woodcarvers The RGV Woodcarvers welcomes any new and experienced carvers this week on December 4, then every Thursday the rest of December, at Kamova Events, 2711 S. 23rd St., McAllen, from 8 to 11:30 a.m. Any questions, call President Pam Horstman (816) 590-6521. For more information, visit their website at www.rgvwoodcarvers. org. Meetings will be held here for the month of November, location subject to change for rest of season. Model Rail Roading & Railroaders Model Rail Roading & Railroaders have started getting together. Anyone interested in joining the group can join them Monday through Friday at the Hidalgo HCBBA holds toy drive Hidalgo County Bail Bond Association (HCBBA) is holding its 7th annual holiday mixer and toy drive. The event will be held on Thursday, December 5 from 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at the Barrel House Kitchen & Bar located at 1927 South Tourist Drive in Edinburg. There will be raffle prizes, live music by Texas Dream and refreshments. Please bring a new unwrapped toy for a child in need. For more information about the event, call (956) 821-5899 or email Hcbbatx@gmail.com. More details for the event can be found online at https:// www.hcbbatx.com/post/embracing-the-spirit-of-giving-celebrating-community-with-hcbba-s-7th-annual-mixer-toy-drive Hidalgo County Bail Bond Association is the leading voice and advocate for bail bond professionals in the Rio Grande Valley and throughout Texas. Established with the vision to elevate and support the bail bond industry, HCBBA is steadfast in serving the public interest, fostering innovation, and strengthening communication and connections within the legal community. See REUNIONS pg. 13
7 WINTER TEXAN TIMES www.wintertexantimes.com DECEMBER 4, 2024 Fiesta de Nochebuena returns to MOSTH Fiesta de Nochebuena continues its traditional holiday festivities at the Museum of South Texas History from 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday, December 8. This year’s Fiesta de Nochebuena will feature some familiar favorites including Posada Por Tiempo, a walk through the River Frontier and River Highway galleries, in which a volunteer group will sing the traditional “Pedir Posada” song. Maryel Monrreal, a museum volunteer, will share the significance of the song and its tradition in the borderlands in between verses and throughout the galleries. Visitors can make-and-take holiday crafts such as writing a reflection of the year on a piece of paper and placing it in a clear Christmas tree ornament; creating a paper poinsettia that makes a great addition to a Christmas tree or home décor and weaving an Ojo de Dios craft. If you’re hoping to shop for the holidays early, visit the museum store for a variety of unique items reflecting the spirit of the borderlands, such as Cappadona Ranch mesquite bean coffee, religious crosses and books. Artisan vendors will be set up and selling holiday items. The Courtyard Gallery will be filled with traditional Mexican and holiday tunes featuring Mariachi Sable de Plata from Robert Vela High School, Matachines from Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church in McAllen, Robert Vela High School Conjunto, Canterbury Instrumental Knights, Cano/Gonzalez Elementary Guitar Club, Travis MusiCats Choir and Magee Mariachi. Take a break between performances and enjoy the Holiday Food Court where several food vendors, Sweets by Georgette, and La Mexicana Bakery will satisfy a sweet tooth. Cowboy Santa will be available for photos posing with those wishing to capture their MOSTH memory. FRIENDS of MOSTH and visitors can purchase a Polaroid ornament of their photo with Cowboy Santa for $5. The first 250 children will receive a free Christmas coloring book. This project was awarded grant funding by the Altrusa International Foundation, Inc. For more information, please visit foundation. altrusa.org. Admission is $9 for adults; $6 for seniors, active military and s t uden t s ages 13 and older; $5 for children ages four to 12 and children under three years old are free. The Museum of South Texas History is located in downtown Edinburg at 200 North Closner Boulevard on the Hidalgo County Courthouse square. For more information about MOSTHistory, including becoming a FRIEND, visit MOSTHistory.org, like us on Facebook and Instagram, follow on Twitter, find on YouTube or call (956) 383-6911. / d , n l Photo courtesy of MOSTH
DECEMBER 4, 2024 www.wintertexantimes.com 8 WINTER TEXAN TIMES Sundays 1:30-5:30pm Steven May & The Southern Knights Live Music in Event Center Wed • 11am-8pm Thurs • 11am-8pm Fri • 11am-8pm Sat • 11am-8pm Sun • 11am-8pm NOW HIRING All Positions! RIVERSIDE DREAMER River Tours Call (956) 581-4477 Reservations Suggested 1 Hour River Tours Wed • 1:00pm Thurs • 1:00pm Fri • 1:00pm Sat • 1:00pm Seniors - $13 Adults - $15 Child - $11 OPEN (956) 581-1033 Riverside In-MissionTx Relax Outside By The Rio Grande River Jam Sessions Craft Sales Coming Soon Friday Fish Fry 4:00pm-7:00pm White Fish or Shrimp Dinner $13.99 Combo Dinner $14.99 Coleslaw, Baked Beans, French Fries, Hush Puppies Sat. Dec. 14 1:00-5:00pm Jolly Huntsmen www.ontheriver.net • 214 E. Chimney Rd • Mission, TX DANCES • 7-10PM Dec 6 • Time Machine • $10 adv $12 at door - Tickets On Sale 11/15 Dec 21 • Kaboom • $10 adv $12 at door - Tickets On Sale 11/22 Sunday Soup Dinner • Dec 15 4:30 - 6pm (Bring your own bowl and topping) Monday Dinner • 4:30 - 6pm Wednesday Breakfast • 7:30 - 9am Thursday Lunch Burgers • 11:30am - 1pm MEALS Dec 14 • 8am - Noon Breakfast Available CRAFT SHOW Sundays • 8:30am With Jesse Hernandez CHURCH SERVICE YARD SALES Dec 7 • 8am - Noon 956-585-0703 1645 S Bentsen Palm Drive • Palmview Paula McSpadden Activity Director ALL EVENTS OPEN TO THE PUBLIC HAPPY HOUR • 3-4:30PM Dec 17 • Bruce Boudreau • Pass the hat 1102 Ash Dr, Mission • 956-585-4829 Sunday Services: Bible Study 9 AM, Worship Service 10:30 AM December 8th Service Bells of Faith December 15th, 4 PM Men & Women of A-Chord December 22 Service Children’s Program: A Shower for Baby Jesus Collecting articles for Su Casa de Esperanza December 24, 6 PM Christmas Eve Communion Pastor Alexis shares a true Christmas story from WWII Germany January 7, 4 PM Grief Support Group February 9, 4 PM Special Healing Service For all illness, injury and our broken world Everyone is welcome! EDITOR’S NOTE: Items for the Parks Calendar must be open to the public activities in the parks only and must be submitted by park owners, managers or activity directors. Listings must come from the park and are to be submitted on the Winter Texan Times Parks Calendar Submission Form. Request this form from the Winter Texan Times office. Multiple activities may be submitted on the park’s letterhead, provided the same information is provided in the format of the Submission Form. We do not accept listings for reviews, workshops, lessons or dance classes. Submission deadline is Thursday 5 p.m., the week prior to the publication date. Send to: Winter Texan Times, 1217 N. Conway Ave., Mission, Texas 78572 or email to parkscal@wintertexantimes.com. Wednesday, December 4 Sunshine’s 77 Cafe - Sunshine RV Resort, Harlingen, 7am1:30pm, Cafe open for breakfast and lunch in Rec Hall. 1900 Grace Ave. Wednesday Breakfast - Bentsen Grove Resort, Palmview, 7:309am. Cash & Carry: Festival of Trees Country Store Sale - Golf View Estates, Mission, 9am-1pm, Everyone welcome! 7424 Couples Circle. Festival of Trees Silent Auction - Golf View Estates, Mission, 9am1pm, Everyone welcome! Come see all the beautiful Christmas trees and decorations at the Silent Auction and get your bid in! 7424 Couples Circle. Festival of Trees Bake Sale - Golf View Estates, Mission, 9am-1pm, Goodies to treat your Christmas taste buds! Everyone welcome! 7424 Couples Circle. Craft Sale - Paradise Resort Estates, Pharr, 9am-Noon, Lunch is served. Space is available. Contact Pat at 507-351-5246. Wednesday Burger Fry - Chimney Park, Mission, 11:30am12:30pm, Loaded 1/2 lb. burger, egg washed French fries, and ranch style baked beans, $7pp. 956-5855061. 4224 S. Conway Ave. Country Jam - Quiet Village II, Donna, 12:30-3:30pm. Jam Session - Park Place Estates, Harlingen, 1:30-3:30pm, Our free Acoustic Jam Session is open to the public. Come to listen or come to play! Everyone is welcome. Happy Hour - Victoria Palms Resort, Donna, 3-5pm, The Juice!, pass the hat. Ballroom. Karaoke - McAllen Mission RV Resort, Mission, 3-6pm, Hall-2. Music: country, old time rock. Chef Joann meals served $. Snacks, ice cream, and drinks available. BYOD. Come and sing, visit, or relax. 956-585-7630. 3366 N. Bentsen Palm Dr. Meals - Tip O’ Texas RV Resort, Pharr, 5:30-7:15pm, Hot dogs, burgers, polish sausages, concessions. 101 E. Sioux Rd. 956-7876461. Gospel Sing - Southern Comfort Resort, Weslaco, 6pm, Donation. 1501 S. Airport Dr. Movie Night - Enchanted Valley Ranch, Mission, 6:30pm. Dance - Tip O’ Texas RV Resort, Pharr, 7-10pm, Steven May & Southern Knights, $8pp. BYOB. 101 E. Sioux Rd. 956-787-6461. CALENDAR PARKS For more information, photos and tour schedules visit Wintertainers TM at www.wintertexantimes.com www.wintertexantimes.com tainers Winter TM
9 WINTER TEXAN TIMES www.wintertexantimes.com DECEMBER 4, 2024 BIT O HEAVEN RV & MOBILE HOME RESORT 1051 W Bus Hwy 83 • Donna,TX 78537 SUSAN THOMAS, ACTIVITY DIRECTOR 603-396-2786 ENTERTAINMENT Dec 18, 7 pm • Curt James • $10 Soda, water, popcorn, and snacks for sale, free ice/cups, 50/50 door prizes. TUESDAYS • HAPPY HOUR • 3-5 PM PASS THE HAT Dec 10 • Jerry Co Soda, water, popcorn, and snacks for sale, free ice/cups, BYOB, 50/50 door prizes. BYOB. All welcome. SUNDAYS • KARAOKE • 5 PM FRIDAYS • DANCES • 7-10 PM Dec 6 • Burnin’ Ember • $10 Dec 13 • Texas Wheels • $10 Dec 17 • The Fabulous Cruisers • $12 Reservations Required Soda, water, popcorn, and snacks for sale, free ice/cups, 50/50 door prizes. Dec 7 • Patio Sales Dec 13 • Craft Fair FAIRS & SALES • 8 AM-12 PM THURSDAYS • SOUP SUPPER • 4:30 PM Starting December 5 $4 All You Can Eat Bring your own bowls, to-go containers, snacks, BYOB. Dessert for sale. Activities: 956-585-4833 RV & MH RESORT MISSION BELL TRADE WINDS Mission Bell - 1711 E Business Hwy 83 ~ MISSION, TX ~ Tradewinds RV Resort - 1005 N Stewart Rd DANCES Dec 19 & Jan 8 • Texas Wheels 7pm • $10 Jan 4 • The Fabulous Cruisers 7pm • $12 Jan 9 • The Buck Hollow Band 7pm • $10 MURDER MYSTERY & DINNER Dec 7 • $10 • 4:30pm SHOWS Dec 14 • Adam Pope 7pm • $10 Jan 11 • Rusty Rierson 7pm • $10 CRAFT SHOWS Dec 16 • 8am-12pm Mission Bell Dec 21 • 8am-12pm Tradewinds 1201 N. Main Street La Feria, TX 956-797-1851 Machelle Pepelea - Activity Director Kenwood Rv Resort . Enjoy Life. Enjoy it here. Entertainment Buck Hollow Band • $10 December 28 • 7:00-9:00pm Bluegrass Band Jam Tuesdays • 1:30-3:30pm Kenwood RC Dirt Devil Track Fridays • 9:30-11:00am Kenwood Community Yard Sale December 7 • 8:00am - 12:00pm For more information call: 956-580-7800 email: ads@wintertexantimes.com Make sure your events are like... THIS!! HOW? Advertise in the Valley’s #1 Winter Texan Paper s , n , d , y Thursday, December 5 Sunshine’s 77 Cafe - Sunshine RV Resort, Harlingen, 7am1:30pm, Cafe open for breakfast and lunch in Rec Hall. 1900 Grace Ave. Craft Show - Tropic Winds MH & RV Resort, Harlingen, 8amNoon. Cash & Carry: Festival of Trees Country Store Sale - Golf View Estates, Mission, 9am-1pm, Everyone welcome. 7424 Couples Circle. Festival of Trees Silent Auction - Golf View Estates, Mission, 9am1pm, Everyone welcome! Come see all the beautiful Christmas trees and decorations at the Silent Auction and get your bid in! 7424 Couples Circle. All You Can Eat Pancakes - The Grove Subdivision, San Juan, 9-11am, Pancakes, eggs, sausages, waffles and a hot cup of coffee. Bring your own table service. Hwy. 83 & Stewart Rd., 605 E. 7th St. Line Dance - Enchanted Valley Ranch, Mission, 10am. Public Meal - Festival of Trees Salad Luncheon - Golf View Estates, Mission, 11am, $8pp. Come enjoy a wonderful Salad Luncheon and join in singing Christmas Carols! Everyone welcome! 7424 Couples Circle. Thursday Lunch Burgers - Bentsen Grove Resort, Palmview, 11:30am-1pm. Soup Supper - Bit-O-Heaven RV Park, Donna, 4:30pm, $4pp. BYOB, bowls, snacks, to go containers. Dessert for sale. 1051 W. Bus. Hwy. 83/Hook Ave. Greg & Suzie York - Lakewood RV Resort, Harlingen, 5-6pm, A Country Christmas Sing-along. Jam - Dream Valley Ranch, Mission, 6-8pm, Free, all parks welcome. Acoustic Music Jam - Palm Gardens, Harlingen, 6-8:30pm, Contact Wayne Suter, 567-201-8157. 3401 W. Bus. 83. Church Services - Bibleville Conference Grounds, Alamo, 7pm, 956-787-2024. 1346 N. Cesar Chavez Rd. Bingo - Enchanted Valley Ranch, Mission, 7pm. Dance - Pine to Palm Resort, Weslaco 7-10pm, Steven May & Southern Knights, $8pp. BYOB. Pop and water available for sale, free ice. 802 S. International Blvd. Friday, December 6 Sunshine’s 77 Cafe - Sunshine RV Resort, Harlingen, 7am1:30pm, Cafe open for breakfast and lunch in Rec Hall. 1900 Grace Ave. All Park Garage Sale - Fiesta Village, Mission, 8am-Noon, 205 S. Stewart Rd. Craft/Vendor Show - Palm Shadows RV/MH Park, Donna, 8am-Noon, Booth contact: Vicky Bahner, 956-467-6861. Rec Hall. Patio Sales - Palm Shadows RV/ MH Park, Donna, 8am-Noon, Your junk is someone else’s treasure! Gates open at 8 a.m. Park wide. Park Wide Patio Sale - Rio Valley Estates MH & RV Resort, Weslaco 8am-Noon, 715 N. Westgate Dr. Cash & Carry: Festival of Tree Country Store Sale - Golf View Estates, Mission, 9am-1pm, Everyone welcome! 7424 Couples Circle. Festival of Trees Silent Auction - Golf View Estates, Mission, 9am1pm, Everyone welcome! Come see all the beautiful Christmas trees and decorations at the Silent Auction and get your bid in! 7424 Couples Circle. Blood Drive - Green Gate Grove, Palmview, 9am. RC Dirt Devil Track - Kenwood RV Park, La Feria, 9:30-11am, See PARKS pg. 10 For more information, photos and tour schedules visit Wintertainers TM at www.wintertexantimes.com www.wintertexantimes.com tainers Winter TM
DECEMBER 4, 2024 www.wintertexantimes.com 10 WINTER TEXAN TIMES Valley Star AWARDS SHOW F E B 1 2 2 0 2 5 14th Annual Brought to you by Who will be the 2025 Entertainer of the Year? Find out in person at this year’s Valley Star Awards Show SAVE THE DATE Valley Star Awards Show: Wednesday, February 12, 2025 Tickets on Sale January 2025 Ballots available January 15, 2025 ? 956-797-1851. Country Jam - Casa del Sol, Donna, 10:30am, 10:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Lunch. 12:30 p.m. - 3 p.m. Music. Come for a delicious lunch, then enjoy this popular country jam. Relax and enjoy the music or come to sing. All are welcome. 956-464-9024. 400 N. Val Verde Rd. Yahoo - Enchanted Valley Ranch, Mission, 1pm. Fish Fry - Enchanted Valley Ranch, Mission, 4pm. Fish Fry Night - Mission West RV Park, Palmview, 4:30-5:30pm. Karaoke - Alamo Palms MH & RV Park, 5-6:50pm, Tampico Hall. Country Jam - Hidden Valley Ranch RV & MH Park, Mission, 5:30pm, 717-877-8375. Dance - Fiesta Village, Mission, 7-10pm, Chamberlins, $10pp. 205 S. Stewart Rd. Dance - Victoria Palms Resort, Donna, 7-10pm, The Fabulous Cruisers, $12pp. Dance - Bit-O-Heaven RV Park, Donna, 7-10pm, Burnin’ Ember, $10pp. 1051 W. Bus. Hwy. 83/ Hook Ave. Big Band Jam - Palm Shadows RV/MH Park, Donna, 7-9pm, Rec Hall. Dance - Texas Trails RV Resort, Pharr, 7pm, Southern Vibes, $8pp. 501 W. Owassa Rd. Dance - Fun N Sun Resort, San Benito, 7-10pm, Texas Wheels, $8pp at the door. Dance - Bentsen Grove Resort, Palmview, 7-10pm, Time Machine, $10pp. Tickets at the door $2 more. Tickets on sale 11/15. Shuffleboard Friday Night Lights - Alamo Palms MH & RV Park, 7pm. Entertainment - Eastgate RV & MH Park, Harlingen, 7pm, Jan & Ron Easter, $9pp. 50’s and 60’s country, gospel, and lots of comedy. 956-423-3137. 2801 Harrison. Dance - Casa del Sol, Donna, 7-10pm, The Night Howlers, $8pp. Concessions open, setups available. BYOB. 956-464-9024. 400 N. Val Verde Rd. Saturday, December 7 Flea Market - Winter Green Estates, Mission, 7am-Noon, See the “Ugly Christmas Sweaters” worn by the workers at the Winter Green Estates Flea Market. A large variety of items for sale including: Christmas, sofas, end tables, recliners, dining table/chairs, stools, refrigerators, microwaves, stoves, television sets, sheets, blankets, brand name clothing, pots/pans, dishes, lawn/garden, lamps, vacuums, “hole in one” golf clubs/ bags. Shuttle service available to and from the sale. Cafe is open for breakfast/lunch. Homemade bake sale. Much to choose from! Park Rummage Sale - Sun Valley Village, Harlingen, 7-11am, Inside Clubhouse and Barn. Furniture, appliances, kitchen/household items, decor, linens, Christmas, clothing, books, miscellaneous treasures all priced to sell! Breakfast tacos, sandwiches, desserts, coffee, juice available also. 15659 Buttercup Ct. (off Exp. 83 & North on Altas Palmas Rd.) Annual Park Sale - Winter Haven Park, Pharr, 7-11am, 1015 W. Sam Houston Blvd. Breakfast - Golf View Estates, Mission, 7:15-8:45am, $8pp. Yummy breakfast features biscuits & gravy, scrambled eggs, various meats, pancakes, homemade rolls and more! Everyone welcome! 7424 Couples Circle. Breakfast - Restful Valley Ranch, Mission, 7:30-9am, Please bring your own table service. All Park Garage Sale - Fiesta Village, Mission, 8am-Noon, 205 S. Stewart Rd. Patio Sales - Bit-O-Heaven RV Park, Donna, 8am-Noon, Drive around park for sales. 1051 W. Bus. Hwy. 83/Hook Ave. Craft Show - Aladdin Villas, Mission, 8am-Noon, Kris Kringle Craft Show. Contact Celinda 956360-7692 or Gloria 218-252-6616 PARKS From pg. 9
11 WINTER TEXAN TIMES www.wintertexantimes.com DECEMBER 4, 2024 “Lets Build a Deck”....with Outdoor Flooring & Vinyl Deck Railing Valleywide Delivery Free Estimates THE SIDING SOURCE 705 BUS. 83 • ALAMO, TX • (800)-567-3311 Planing a Project? We Give Expert Advice on all Products and Projects Check us out at www.KautschTV.com Kautsch true value DUTCH LAP VINYL SIDING (12 COLORS IN STOCK) MOBILE HOME SKIRTING (6 COLORS IN STOCK) REPLACEMENT WINDOWS Bring in your measurements for a Free Quote OVER 90 YEARS OF TRUSTED SERVICE • 12 Siding and Soffit Colors (IN STOCK) • Complete Building Supplies • Patio Covers & Carports • Window Awnings • Exterior Vinyl Shutters • Phifer Solar Sun Screens • Custom Aluminum Fabrication • MH & RV Accessories CLASSIC RIB METAL ROOFING ATRIUM VINYL Playground For Retirees Ranchero Village • 14,000 Sq. Ft. Rec Hall • Free Cable and Internet • Exercise Room • 24 Shuffle Board Courts • 30’ Wide Streets • Gated Community • Ceramic Studio • Stained Glass Studio • Billiards, Cards, Crafts • Wood Carving Studio • Swimming Pool & Oversized Spa • R/C Race Track Homes by Ranchero Sales, License #MHDRET00001830 Website: www.RancheroVillageTX.com RancheroVillage@outlook.com (956) 968-6223 1900 S. Bridge Ave, Weslaco, TX 78596 (Sister Park to Rio Valley Estates) • Free Lot Rent – (For One Year!) • Free Concrete Drive • 1 Free Spectrum Cable TV box • Free Skirting & Carport • 1 Free Internet Modem • Free Smart TV • Free Washer & Dryer Amenities include Free!!! With Purchase of a New Model Home Call Today For Your Free Estimate Call Mark Anytime At 956-357-1048 WE WANT TO BUY YOUR TRUCK•CAR•SUV•VAN RV TRAVEL TRAILER•5TH WHEEL•MOTOR HOME•BUS CARGO OR FLATBED TRAILER•ATV•MOTORCYCLE•BOAT MINI-MOTOR HOME•CAMPER VAN•TOY HAULER •GOLF CART WE WANT TO BUY YOUR RV to rent a table and for more info. Breakfast and lunch available. Yard Sales - Bentsen Grove Resort, Palmview, 8am. Patio Sale - Pine to Palm Resort, Weslaco, 8am-Noon, 802 S. International Blvd. Yard Sales - Bentsen Palm RV Park, Mission, 8am-Noon, At individual lots. Lunch available 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. 3501 N. Bentsen Palm Dr. Saturday Breakfast - Chimney Park, Mission, 8-10am, Full breakfast, $7pp. 956-585-5061. 4224 S. Conway Ave. Patio Sales - Alamo Palms MH & RV Park, 8-11am. Patio Sale - Southern Comfort Resort, Weslaco, 8am-Noon, 1501 S. Airport Dr. Park Yard Sale - Quiet Village II, Donna, 8am-Noon, 215 S. Valley View Rd. Park Garage Sale - Sun Valley Acres, Harlingen, 8am-1pm, Rent a table for $10. Food available for sale. At the Hall. Contact Gerri at 651-402-6721 to reserve tables. 25850 Maple Dr. Park Wide Sale - Royal Palms Mobile Park, Alamo, 8am-Noon, 341 E. Duranta. Park Wide Yard Sale - Paradise Resort Estates, Pharr, 8am-1pm, Including hot dog sale on the patio! 956-787-1521. 301 E. Hall Acres Rd. Community Yard Sale - Kenwood RV Park, La Feria, 8amNoon, 956-797-1851. Cash & Carry: Festival of Trees Country Store Sale - Golf View Estates, Mission, 9am-1pm, Everyone welcome! 7424 Couples Circle. Festival of Trees Silent Auction Ends Today - Golf View Estates, Mission, Noon, Everyone welcome! Come see all the beautiful Christmas trees and decorations at the Silent Auction and get your bid in before it’s too late! 7424 Couples Circle. Country Jam - Green Gate Grove, Palmview, 12:30pm, Lunch 11 a.m. Jam 12:30 p.m. Everyone invited. Murder Mystery & Dinner - See PARKS pg. 14
DECEMBER 4, 2024 www.wintertexantimes.com 12 WINTER TEXAN TIMES (956)566-1157 Thankful for family, and new friends And how was your Thanksgiving? Mine was extra special with a visit from my grandnephew and his father. It is so great to have family come to visit, especially when one of them is a champion at almost every cook off that he enters. So naturally, he cooked the turkey, and I had never had smoked turkey before. Since I had already cooked two turkeys for a special early celebration, I was more than glad to turn over that chore to someone else. However, I still wanted to do my share and contribute to the festivities. I tried to contribute the dessert but what a special grandnephew I have. After a whirlwind trip to Houston one day and back the next, my grandnephew would not even let me do my share. He brought two big homemade pies - one pecan and one pumpkin pie. All that I was able to do was make cornbread dressing, gravy and homemade cranberry sauce. But what a feast we had beginning with the turkey cooked by my nephew on his charcoal grill and with butternut squash and red sweet potatoes cooked on the same grill. And so, a new tradition was started when we all sat down to enjoy the feast. Such a meal certainly needed to begin with a prayer of thanksgiving. Each of us at the table took our turn to give thanks for our special blessings. Life, family, friends and fellowship and a beautiful world to enjoy. I have been blessed. While preparing to leave for the airport and my flight to Houston, I received a message from AT&T that my bill was overdue. Only once did they tell me what the number was to call and settle the bill. Before I could write it down my phone was dead. Little did I know that the tower that serves the Harlingen area was dead during the night, and I was without a charged phone. When I arrived in Houston, I had no way to contact my nephew to let him know I was at the airport and needed to know how to get to his house. Not to worry. Two ladies seated near me were using a cell phone and so I asked for help. They so graciously dialed my nephew. We decided that I should go to the closest hotel, get a room and wait until he was off work when he could pick me up. I thanked the ladies for their help and then went outside to find a taxi. The ladies left to go and see their mother with whom they would spend thanksgiving. While I was waiting for a taxi those same two ladies returned and told me to hop in and they would take me to a hotel and so they did. Their mother lived only 10 blocks away from the airport and they had decided they needed to help me since I was in Houston for an emergency situation. When we arrived at the nearest hotel, we shared pictures and telephone numbers. What a blessing for me to find two such caring people to help me. So, what do I have to be thankful for? People who care and people who share. On Thanksgiving Day I gave those ladies a call. I was hoping that it would be their mother who answered the phone so I could tell her what a good mother she had been to raise two such caring daughters. Thank you to those who are reading this - thank you for caring and sharing. Let us all remember our blessings and share them during this most beautiful time of the year.
13 WINTER TEXAN TIMES www.wintertexantimes.com DECEMBER 4, 2024 We Love Our Winter Texans! Thank you for making us your home away from home! • Nightly, 7 Day Plus Rates Available • Fully Equipped Kitchens • Free Wi-Fi • Outdoor Pool • Small Pet Welcome (with fee) • Guest Laundry Service Walking Distance to the La Plaza Mall and several restaurants. For Reservations 956-378-4046 www.mcallen-studio6.com 700 Savannah Ave. McAllen, TX Lock In Your Rates For Next Winter Winter Texan 7 Day Plus Special! $327.67 Queen Bed • $375.97 2 Full Size Beds PLEASE MENTION AD FOR SPECIAL! SPECIAL! 7 Day Plus 27146 McLelland Road., Harlingen, TX 78552 (956) 423-1446 Lower Valley / 956-664-1446 Upper Valley Visit us at www.gowithjo.com for complete itineraries Eagle Pass (2 Days) Dec. 10, 2024 �������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������$235 Hill Country Christmas (3 Days) ����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������TBA King Ranch (1 Day) Jan. 30, Feb. 13, Mar. 6, 2025 ���������������������������������������������������������TBA King Ranch Farm (1 Day) Feb. 20, 2025 ������������������������������������������������������������������������������TBA New Mexico - Religious Faith Based Pilgrimage (7 Days) May, 2025 �����TBA (Prices are per person, double occupancy) Monterrey Tres (3 Days) Nov. 29, 2024 �������������������������������������������������������������������������������$450 Monterrey Tres (3 Days) Dec. 30, 2024 NYE Dinner Dance ���������������������������������$510 Christmas in San Miguel De Allende (6 Days) �����������������������������������������������������������TBA Monarch Butterfly (7 Days) Feb. 13, 2025 �������������������������������������������������������������������������TBA Mexico City & Puebla Pilgrimage (7 Days) Bus and Plane �������������������������������TBA (Prices are per person, double occupancy) U.S. TOURS MEXICO BUS TOURS Go...With Jo! Tours & Travel Happy Holidays! t d t n t s w d o d r o d y d d . s d e l e g d e g m f Baptist Church. He is Chair of the Music Department at South Texas College and assistant professor of music since 2008. Several other professional musicians will complete the orchestra at the presentations. Dr. O’Neil is in his second year as Calvary Choir director and brings decades of musical experience to the choir. He has been on faculty at The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley/UT Pan American as professor of clarinet since 1992. He is currently co-principal clarinetist with the Valley Symphony Orchestra. Bill grew up in Winnipeg and is delighted to live in the RGV. Bill said this year’s cantata is very different from last year. Last year they did the history or Christmas carols – which was interesting and fun to learn. This year is the story of the King. And nothing is better than it being the end of the semester for school and celebrating the birth of our Lord, said Bill. There are so many songs, so many wonderful songs, that have wonderful messages, he said about the music. He loves seeing the interaction of the choir members and bringing in friends from other churches to join in this celebration. It’s rewarding to see how week by week, we come together to form the music doing fun things and bringing it all together to form this cantata, he said. The Calvary Choir has been an integral part of worship in the church for over sixty years. Today’s choir continues that tradition with heartfelt love for God and singing to His glory. The choir sings every Sunday, directed by Bill O’Neil and accompanied by Dan Cather at the 9:30 a.m. service. Judy, a choir member, has participated with the choir for 27 years. Christmas is a special time for her and brings back memories singing carols with her family and of her music teaching days, she said. Not only does she feel the spirit, but she is often reminded of the Christmas concerts her students performed years ago, and all the preparation for those performances. Music and singing are things she loves to do as it’s a way to worship, she said, and Christmas is a great time to ‘sing your praises to God.’ Being part of the choir, said Judy, is like having a large family. It’s full of friendship, it’s a unit, and we look out for each other. We have been blessed with amazing directors, accompanists, and singers through the years, she said. “It’s part of my life and I enjoy it.” There is no admission fee, and the public is cordially invited to attend. Join them for this highly anticipated annual event and let your heart be lifted and filled with joy at the coming of Jesus, the Messiah! Calvary Baptist Church is located at 1600 Harvey St., in McAllen. For more information contact Calvary Baptist Church at (956) 6864364. CALVARY From pg. 1 Pumphouse. Call Red at (313) 532-8549 for more information. Submarine Veterans The Submarine Veterans will meet for lunch at 11 a.m. on Thursday, December 19, (every third Thursday of the month through April) at Junction Café, 115 Cage Blvd., in Pharr. For more information, call Larry at (715) 305-0401. Fayette County, Iowa Make plans for the Fayette County, Iowa reunion set for Thursday, January 16. It will be held at Mr. Gatti’s in Weslaco at 11 a.m. Contact Carolyn Beier at (563) 920-3838 if you need more information. REUNIONS From pg. 6
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